Shopping Reviews

LOVE foreplay but have a lazy partner? Then Christmas has come early — ahem.

Meet The Poet by Smile Makers. Made with clever air-suction technology, this toy is no ordinary vibrator.

The Poet, £79.95 £55.95 from Smile Makers

It’s designed for earth-shattering clitoral orgasms. Add a bit of lube, and it practically mimics real oral sex — a godsend for those of us whose partners skip foreplay… or are single.

As a devoted fan of oral, I like to make it the main course — who needs guys anyway?

Its silky-smooth silicone material feels amazing against the skin, and with three interchangeable heads, you can find your perfect fit.

It’s already racking up glowing reviews and boasts a 4.7-star rating online — so guys, consider yourselves warned!

Pros

• Rechargeable battery
• Three interchangeable ‘mouths’ 
• Cheaper than similar toys on the market
• Waterproof
• Very quiet (if not totally silent)
• Two-year guarantee
• Five pulsation modes 

Cons

• Better for solo play than intercourse
• There are already similar products on the market
• Packaging could be more enticing 

Rating: 9/10

How I tested The Poet

The Poet, £79.95 £55.95 from Smile Makers

As The Sun’s Sexpert, I’ve tried my fair share of vibrators over the years — you can read my round-up of the best sex toys for women.

Where possible, I test the toys by myself, and then my partner is usually roped in for a test drive (not that he ever minds!).

The Nitty Gritty

First impressions

Okay, so the packaging could be a little more enticing, but once opened, the toy itself is very pretty and female-friendly.

Its purple-rose design is elegant enough to sit on your bedside table — no need to hide it away in a drawer.

The instructions are simple to follow, and the toy is easy to use.

Does it… Deliver?

The Poet, £79.95 £55.95 from Smile Makers

As someone who loves oral sex, I can honestly say this is one of the best air-suction toys I’ve tried.

I actually prefer it to toys from Womanizer, one of the first brands to use this kind of clitoral stimulation technology.

It’s more comfortable to use, gentler yet somehow more powerful, and much prettier too. 

Add plenty of lube and it really can feel as good — if not better — than the real thing.

It really can feel as good — if not better — than the real thing.

And yes, lads, you might want to be a little worried about that!

It’s also waterproof, so you can elevate your bathroom game with a cheeky solo session in the shower or bath.

Plus, it’s rechargeable (no more faffing about with batteries) and comes with a cute satin bag to tuck it away in.

How much is The Poet?

At £79.95, it’s cheaper than its racy rival, the Womanizer, as well as Lelo’s Sona 2, which, until trying this, was the best I’d tried.

Plus, it’s currently on sale for £55.95.

Lelo’s Sona 2 is pricier at £100.62 (currently on sale).

So, while this toy is a little up there in price, it’s still more affordable than many other premium brands — and it comes with a two-year guarantee.

Orgasms that are insured — what’s not to love?

Where to buy The Poet

Thanks to the sale, the best place to buy The Poet is probably the Smile Makers website.

But, it’s also available from retailers like SheSpot and Cult Beauty.

It’s worth shopping around, as different sites often run their own discounts.

Alternatives

At the premium end of the market, the Womanizer Next retails at £189 – almost £100 more than The Poet.

Both use air-tech suction, are whisper-quiet, waterproof, and made from soft silicone.

But I find the Womanizer a bit more rigid and less comfortable to hold and use than The Poet.

At the budget end, there’s LoveHoney’s Clitoral Rose Suction, which is super cute and very reasonably priced at £54.99.

It also uses clever air-tech suction technology and is waterproof, but it’s not as comfortable to hold as The Poet, which seems to mould perfectly to the body.

Then, bang in the middle, there’s Lelo’s Sona 2.

Like the Womanizer, it specialises in air-suction clitoral stimulation and is one of my favourite toys.

But The Poet is cliterally the best — and cheaper. 

AS someone who tried and failed for years to master the art of the at-home blowout, I have the rise of air tools to thank for my transformed hair styling routine.

Every hair tool under the sun promises “salon-worthy results at home,” and I’ve been testing the Shark FlexStyle hair tool for a year to determine if it can truly deliver.

Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)

Known originally for its popular vacuums, Shark branched out into the beauty tech space in 2022 with the launch of the FlexStyle Air Styling and Drying System.

The beauty gadget features five different attachments, with an option to build your own bundle based on your hair type.

All of the FlexStyle attachments can also be bought separately on the Shark website for £24.99 each, so you can add to your collection over time.

Shark swooped in at a time when beauty enthusiasts were searching for a more affordable alternative to the £400+ Airwrap.

At £279.99, it’s still an investment, but it’s a fraction of the cost of a Dyson Airwrap i.d.

Is it worth ditching your current tools for an all-in-one gadget? Read below for my full Shark FlexStyle review.

Pros:

• Creates voluminous blow-outs
• Minimal heat damage
• Requires little effort (once you nail the technique)
• Multiple attachments included
• Option to build your own set
• Easy to switch between styler and dryer
• Cheaper than similar alternatives

Cons:

• Noisy
• Bulky for travelling
• Takes a while to master the technique
• Hot brush attachment can feel rough on the hair

Rating: 8/10

How I tested the Shark FlexStyle Air Styler

Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)

As The Sun’s Fashion and Beauty eCommerce Writer, it’s my job to try out products that are causing a buzz in the industry.

I’m obsessed with all things beauty, so I’ve tested my fair share of hair stylers over the years, including the best Dyson Airwrap dupe and my Dyson Airwrap i.d review, but it takes a lot for one to become a regular in my routine.

The hype around the Shark FlexStyle is still going, and I can confidently share my thoughts after trialling the tool for a year.

The Smoothing Concentrator (hair drying nozzle) and Auto-Wrap Curling Barrels are my go-to FlexStyle attachments, so I’ll be talking mostly about them.

But I’ve also tested the Paddle Brush, Oval Brush and Fizz Fighter heads.

For reference, I have long, wavy hair that can get frizzy after washing, and I have extensions.

Shark FlexStyle 5-in-1 air styler review: The Nitty Gritty

First impressions

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Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)

Every beauty influencer in existence seems to own the FlexStyle, so I was pretty familiar with its appearance before trying it out.

While sleek in design, the cable and attachments together are on the bulky side (which is to be expected due to its multiple functions), but it’s meant I’ve avoided travelling with it so far.

When purchasing the FlexStyle, shoppers can select the five-in-one bundle, or mix and match their own (choosing four attachments).

I have the model that comes with five attachments: Auto-Wrap Curlers (one for each side of the head), a Paddle Brush, an Oval Brush, a Styling Concentrator, and a Diffuser.

My Fizz Fighter Finishing Tool is a new addition, which I bought separately to try and tame my frizz at my roots.

As I have attachments in my bundle that I don’t use (the diffuser, as it’s designed for curly/ coily hair), I would recommend the Build Your Own Hair Styling and Drying System to get the most for your money.

Does it deliver?

If you’re looking for a way to create bouncy blow-outs yourself, the Shark FlexStyle absolutely delivers, but it does take practice to perfect the process.

My biggest reservation about the FlexStyle before trying it was the drying system.

Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)

A multitasking styler runs the risk of being a jack of all trades but a master of none, but Shark has ensured its hair dryer doesn’t compromise on power.

I swear by my Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer for quick results on my long hair, and the FlexStyle pretty much matches its drying time.

Call me easily pleased, but the way the tool rotates between a dryer and a styler is one of my favourite features.

The fact that it twists into a right angle makes it so much easier to use, and — in a common theme with the FlexStyle — it never makes me feel like I’m overworking to get results.

There are three heat and power settings (I tend to use mine on full blast), and following the instructions of online videos, I always use the Cool Shot feature for locking the style in place.

The Paddle Brush (for straight styles) and the Oval Brush (for blow-outs) both have boar and plastic bristles that are great for gripping the hair, but I’d recommend being gentle to avoid snagging the hair.

The newest addition to my routine is the Frizz Fighter Finishing Tool.

Like the barrels, it attracts the hair, gliding from the root to smooth frizz and flyaways, essentially enhancing the effects of the other attachments.

Now, for quite possibly the main selling point — the Auto-Wrap Curling Barrels.

Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)

I have to admit, I was quickly humbled when I realised that the beauty influencers were making the process look far easier than it is.

The airflow technology makes the air wrap around the barrel automatically to create a curl, but I struggled with getting it to pick up the hair for the first few attempts.

And when I did, the curl would drop out within the first few hours.

After plenty of practice (and TikTok tutorials), I managed to master the method, but patience is needed.

I found the key is keeping the sections small as it makes it easier for the hair to wrap, and use a product to hold the curls (I swear by the Colour Wow XL Volumiser).

Unlike when I use curling tongs, the curls aren’t going to last me for days on end, but they do look great that day, and after sleeping on them, I’m left with a subtle wave that I’ll sometimes go over with the barrels.

I also find the whole process to be far more enjoyable than curling my hair with tongs (which could be down to years of the same routine) – and the airflow makes creating curls far more efficient.

The one thing I’d change about the FlexStyle is the noise.

Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)

When my roommate borrows it, I can hear the whirring from the other side of the flat, so it’s not one you could use while watching TV or late at night.

Keeping heat damage to a minimum is important to me as I already put enough strain on my hair with bleach, extensions and frequent styling.

Can I confidently say that the FlexStyle causes zero damage? No.

But can I confidently say that it creates a salon-worthy blow-out while causing far, far less damage than other hair tools? Absolutely.

Results aside, I can tell when I’m using the FlexStyle that it’s transferring way less heat than a tong or straightener (you can read my article on the best hair straighteners here).

There’s no burning smell (and if there is, you may need to clean the filter), and my hair has felt healthier since ditching the tongs for the FlexStyle regularly.

I love how my hair turns out every time I use the Shark FlexStyle, and it’s absolutely worth investing time to master the technique in order to get professional-looking results.

Shark FlexStyle FAQs:

Shark FlexStyle price

The Shark FlexStyle isn’t cheap, but if you’re keen to invest in a does-it-all hair tool, it’s more affordable than its competitors.

Shark’s 5-in-1 Hair Dryer and Air Styler with Storage Case is currently on sale for £229.99, while the Build Your Own bundle is slashed to £199.99.

Refurbished models are also available on eBay, a cheaper alternative to buying the FlexStyle brand new.

Shark released a 2025 edition of the FlexStyle earlier this year, which beauty fans can buy for £279.99.

Where to buy the Shark FlexStyle 5-in-1 air styler and hair dryer?

The Shark FlexStyle is available to buy online at Boots, Amazon and of course, the Shark website.

Most major beauty retailers are also currently stocking the styler, including Sephora, Lookfantastic and Cult Beauty.

There are several colourways to choose from, including the limited-edition sparkle FlexStyle that comes in stunning champagne and black shades (and would be perfect if you’re buying the styler as a gift).

The full list of places to shop online:

Is the Shark FlexStyle worth it?

Using the Shark FlexStyle takes some practice to get it right, but once you get the technique down, it’s so worth it.

The styler works effectively on long and thick hair, but those with fine hair will need to work harder for long-lasting curls.

At over £250+, it’s not cheap, but if you blow-dry and curl your hair regularly, it’s an investment worth considering.

The best part about the FlexStyle?

It causes far less heat damage than tongs and conventional hair straighteners – not to mention that it’s significantly more enjoyable to use.

How to use Shark FlexStyle?

For best results, start with towel-dried hair and dry with the Smoothing Concentrator until your hair is roughly 80% dry.

You can use the Paddle Brush attachment to straighten your hair and add shine, or the Oval Brush to add bounce and volume.

The Auto-Wrap Curlers use a clever technology that wraps and curls your hair around the barrel automatically.

All you need to do is hold your hair in place for 10-15 seconds, and then use the shot button to lock in your curl before releasing.

Repeat across sections for a full head of soft, bouncy curls.

Shark FlexStyle 5-in-1 Air Style alternatives

It’s no secret that the Dyson Airwrap i.d is the FlexStyle’s main competitor (make sure to read our Dyson Airwrap i.d review).

Revlon, Bondi Boost and Silk’n all have similar hair tools, and the Sun Shopping team also tried and tested the Babyliss Air Style 1000 in a Dyson Airwrap dupe review.

Beauty fans who are mostly tempted by the Oval Brush attachment on the FlexStyle should also check out our round-up of the best hot brushes.

WITH temperatures falling and nights drawing in, it’s offically hot chocolate season.

That means it’s time for me to pull my Salter Chocolatier from the back of the cupboard.

Even at full whack, it’s less than a quarter of the price of the famous Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser, and Amazon has just discounted it for Prime Day, meaning that it’s now just £28.24, down from £34.99.

Read on for my full Salter Chocolatier review.

Salter Chocolatier Electric Hot Chocolate Maker, £34.99 £28.24 from Amazon

I spend a lot of time outdoors walking my dogs and in winter that’s often a freezing few hours in the mud, snow and rain.

Once home, a hot drink is essential and while I doubt my kitchen could create that country-inn atmosphere, I was intrigued to find out if the machine could create a rival to my pub-bought favourite.

I’m not a fan of instant hot chocolate so tend to swerve it as a drink option.

Thankfully, the Salter Chocolatier is a different matter entirely.

Pros:

• Easy to use
• Affordable
• Handy milk frother
• Works with plant milk
• Easy to clean
• Also great for lattes and cappuccinos

Cons:

• Small capacity
• Takes a few minutes
• Sometimes chocolate isn’t fully mixed
• May not be hot enough for some

Rating: 8/10

How I tested the Salter Chocolatier

It’ll come as no surprise that my main focus during testing was how well the Salter Chocolatier makes hot chocolate, and this function is the one I used the most.

However, I also prepared other drinks with it, including cappuccino, latte and iced coffee.

I considered how easy the hot chocolate maker was to use and how easy it was to clean afterwards.

I was also interested in the quality of the instructions.

I don’t like it when manufacturers supply just a brief product leaflet with their products and then expect users to download a full manual from their website.

Who has time for that? And what about those people who don’t use the internet, such as older consumers?

Finally, I considered how the product looked – was it merely a functional item or did it look good sitting on the kitchen worktop?

Salter Chocolatier review: quick summary

This is a great product. It makes amazing hot chocolate from scratch, though it doesn’t always mix the grated chocolate as well as I would like.

The milk frother is also good, but when using the thick hot froth function I found it impossible to get all of the froth from the jug to the cup.

It’s quite stylish in a minimalist kind of way, and it’s easy to clean.

It doesn’t take long to make your drink but the downside is that it only makes one cup at a time.

Salter Chocolatier review: full review

Salter Chocolatier Electric Hot Chocolate Maker, £34.99 £28.24 from Amazon

If you have purchased this then chances are you’re a bit of a hot chocolate connoisseur, or at the very least a big fan.

The machine itself is pretty simple. There’s a jug, lid, frothing ring, heating ring and base.

It’s very much like a mini kettle. with the addition of a function button.

This button has four options:

• Thick hot froth
• Light hot froth
• Hot milk/ hot chocolate
• Cold milk froth

Unboxing and setup

The box contains the jug, lid, frothing ring, heating ring and base so it’s simple enough to set up the machine.

There’s also a quick start guide and if you want a product manual you have to download it from the Salter website (sigh!).

However, if you’re hoping for a bit more detail on using the machine, you’ll be disappointed.

The instruction manual on the website is the same as the leaflet in the box and does not provide any further information.

Still, I guess that shows how simple the Chocolatier is to use.

Design and features

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Salter Chocolatier Electric Hot Chocolate Maker, £34.99 £28.24 from Amazon

There’s an easy-to-see level guide inside the jug for the different drinks and froths.

For example, if you’re after a light or thick froth then you need to add 115ml of milk, but if you’re making a hot chocolate then you would fill to the max 240ml level.

There’s also a minimum level and if the liquid doesn’t reach this then the chocolatier will switch itself off as a safety precaution.

The jug comes with the frother already attached inside, but if you want to clean it or swap it with the heating attachment, you can simply lift it off.

This is tiny, but lives in the lid so you’ll always be able to find it if you remember to pop it back there after use.

The design is minimalist and there’s only one button to get the hang of.

Other than that, the chocolatier sits on its base like a regular kettle.

Operation and performance

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Salter Chocolatier Electric Hot Chocolate Maker, £34.99 £28.24 from Amazon

The inside of the jug is smooth and easy to clean, which is always a bonus.

I found that both plant and dairy milks simply rinsed off the sides and even residual chocolate shavings came off cleanly without any effort.

You can’t pop the jug in the dishwasher, but you can use hot soapy water to clean the inside if anything does stick.

I never had that problem, though, and I think as long as you stick to the functions as set out in the guide then you’ll be fine.

You don’t need to wait long for your drink either – it takes about 4.5 minutes for a hot chocolate and around two minutes for a jug of froth.

A kettle is quicker but we’re not talking instant gratification here.
It’s well worth the few minutes’ wait.

A kettle is quicker but we’re not talking instant gratification here. It’s well worth the few minutes’ wait

You need 35g of chocolate shavings per cup and you can buy these ready-grated, or as a powder from an array of retailers.

I decided to go for the real deal though and did it myself.

My favourite hot chocolate drink was made using 75% cocoa chocolate, which I grated before adding to the jug (be prepared for the grated chocolate to go everywhere!).

I’m a big white chocolate fan, but when I tried it as a drink, I found it a bit too sweet.

I also tried the Chocolatier with dairy and soya milk and both worked well, though as I don’t like dairy, my preference would always be plant milk.

For some reason I was surprised the finished hot chocolate wasn’t frothy; however, it’s not supposed to be, that’s a separate function.

You can always dress it up with a cream topping and mini marshmallows for the full pub/café effect.

It also wasn’t as hot as I expected but it was a pleasant drinking temperature, which was fine. I think some people might be disappointed it’s not warmer though.

I did experiment with the thick and light froth for coffee, but I wasn’t too impressed with the thicker option as it’s impossible to pour all the foam from the jug, resulting in a lot of waste.

There’s also a cold froth setting, which my daughter tried as she’s a big iced coffee and frappe fan.

I have never seen the point of cold coffee so avoided that one.

Salter Chocolatier review: the verdict

Wow! I loved the hot chocolate I made with this.

The texture was rich but not overly thick, while being creamy and smooth at the same time.

For me, it certainly beats standing over a saucepan of milk to make hot chocolate from scratch, or going for a cup of instant using the kettle.

I can see myself using this a lot.

Though I generally used a high-cocoa content chocolate it was perfectly sweet enough and not bitter at all.

I wasn’t so impressed with the frothing functions though, so will most likely save the machine specifically for hot chocolate.

The major downside to it is you can only make one cup of hot chocolate at a time and because it is drinking temperature when ready, the first person will have almost finished theirs in the time it takes to prepare a second cup.

Either that or one of you will be drinking it cold.

At £34.99 it’s less than half the price of the Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser.

The Velvetiser wins out on looks though – this is functional, rather than pretty. However, the Salter model wins on capacity – 240ml compared to 200ml.

If you’re going to use the frother function regularly, or if you’re a big hot chocolate fan and want to invest in an automatic maker without spending a fortune, then I think the Salter Chocolatier is worth it.

Where to buy the Salter Chocolatier Electric Hot Chocolate Maker in the UK

You can buy the Salter Chocolatier Electric Hot Chocolate Maker from the Salter website.

It’s also available from:

WHEN I was doing the research for this SURI review, I came across some alarming stats.

Every year, over four billion toothbrushes end up either in landfill or, more worryingly, in the ocean.

And it takes so long for a single toothbrush to decompose that almost every plastic toothbrush produced since the 1930s is still languishing somewhere on the planet.

If you’re an electric toothbrush user, you might think you’re exempt from this, but — I hate to break it to you — you’re not. In fact, you’re probably worse.

SURI 2.0 Electric Toothbrush, £105

Happily, there’s now an ingeniously designed, decently affordable alternative.

Last week, SURI — a brand favoured by celebs including Gwyneth Paltrow — unveiled its second-generation SURI 2.0 toothbrush, and I was lucky enough to get my hands on one prior to its release date.

I’ve used the original SURI 1.0 toothbrush for years, but for the last month I’ve been getting to grips with the new model.

Pros

• One of the most thoughtfully-designed products I think I’ve ever come across — the attention to detail is astounding
• MUCH more sustainable than alternatives
• Brilliant battery life
• Pretty affordable, depending on which generation you go for
• Perfect for travel
• If you take care of it, it’ll last forever
• Dentist-approved (it’s approved by the dentist I spoke to, at least)

Cons

• The first generation doesn’t have pressure sensing, which can lead to overbrushing
• The second generation is significantly more expensive than the first
• There’s no bells and whistles like app connectivity — but do you really need them?

Rating: 9.5/10

How I tested the SURI toothbrush

I first met the co-founder of SURI, Mark, at a press event almost three years ago.

His knowledge and passion blew me away, and he was kind enough to give me one of the brand’s toothbrushes to try myself.

It’s tackled my gnashers daily ever since — it’s moved house twice with me, and gone on several holidays.

This summer, I was one of several lucky journalists to be sent the brand’s new and upgraded toothbrush, the SURI 2.0.

As the Sun’s reviews manager, it’s my job to hold it to account, ensuring that it delivers on its promises, provides value for money, and handles day-to-day operations.

SURI toothbrush review: The Nitty Gritty

First impressions

SURI 1.0 Electric Toothbrush, £75

Before I encountered SURI in 2022, I’d happily been using a middle-of-the-road electric toothbrush, without thinking too much about its environmental impact.

If you’d put a gun to my head, I’d probably have told you that electric toothbrushes are better for the environment than manual ones, as they don’t have to be thrown away every couple of months.

I’d have been wrong.

In fact, they’re a nightmare combo of hard-to-mine rare earth metals, carbon-dioxide-heavy manufacturing processes and “planned obsolescence” — they’re only designed to last three to five years or so, so that you routinely come back and buy a new one.

That means that they, too, end up in landfills, where their toxic components can leech into soil and water supplies.

SURI (short for “Sustainable Rituals”), by comparison, has put a LOT of thought into how to end the environmental nightmare caused by billions of humans brushing their teeth.

The handle is made from aluminium, rather than the hard plastic preferred by other brands. This is a very conscious choice — 75% of all aluminium ever created is still in circulation today, because it’s such an easy-to-recycle material.

Other parts of the toothbrush are made from clever materials like cornstarch (the head), castor oil (the bristles), and steel (the internal components).

These are all designed to have as small an environmental impact as possible — when you buy replacement heads, SURI sends you a mail bag so that you can return your used heads to be industrially composted.

Does it deliver?

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SURI 2.0 Electric Toothbrush, £105

So we’ve established that SURI is more sustainable than its competitors — but does it make a better toothbrush?

When I’ve spoken to the company’s co-founder, Mark, he has emphasised the company’s decision not to include the app-powered, Bluetooth-compatible bells and whistles you get in other toothbrushes.

After all, what percentage of people really want to link their toothbrush to an app? Most people I’ve encountered want to get the chore over and done with so they can go to bed.

Instead, the SURI is pretty utilitarian — it includes all the things that you’d need in a modern toothbrush, without adding any unnecessary marketing fluff.

It’s a sonic toothbrush, which is a type of electric toothbrush — they’re defined by their very, very quick vibration, which produces their signature “sonic” humming sound.

The SURI vibrates 33,000 times per minute, which actually puts it at the gentler end of the spectrum — and unlike some competitors, it doesn’t have multiple power settings.

Personally, day-to-day, I’m fine with that — I like a gentler clean, and relatively low vibrations work with the softer castor oil bristles to create a sensation that feels much kinder to my gums than other brushes I’ve used.

However, it would be nice to have a pedal-to-the-metal setting for those days when I’ve had a few glasses of red wine, or accidentally made my way through a large bag of Skittles while watching telly.

The thing about the OG SURI brush that concerned some dentists was its lack of pressure sensor, a feature that notifies you if you’re brushing too hard.

Thankfully, the new SURI 2.0 has added that feature.

There are a host of other features that make this brush extremely practical.

The first that comes to mind is the UV-C Travel Case, which comes as standard with the SURI 2.0 but is an added cost for the 1.0.

As well as protecting your toothbrush from whatever else you throw in your suitcase with it, it comes with a UV light that removes 99.9% of the bacteria on your bristles.

There’s also the month-long battery life — my partner’s electric toothbrush only lasts for a week, if she’s lucky.

Last, but certainly not least, is a tiny thing that I love — each SURI brush comes with a magnetic mount, which you can put on your bathroom mirror or wall.

That might sound pointless, but it stops your toothbrush from amassing that gross toothpaste residue at the bottom, which always makes me feel slightly nauseous.

How much is the SURI toothbrush?

The new SURI 2.0 costs £105.

That’s quite a steep increase from the original brush, which retails for just £75.

However, the 2.0 comes with a travel case as standard, which wasn’t the case for the original brush — if you wanted one, you’d have to fork out another £25.

While it’s not exactly a bargain in a world where you can pick up an electric toothbrush for £40 or £50 on Amazon, SURI markets its device as “the last toothbrush you’ll ever buy” — the toothbrush is designed to be repaired, and SURI will replace the battery for a “reasonable” fee.

The toothbrush head needs to be replaced every couple of months; you can buy a pack of three heads for £14.99, or set up a subscription to have two heads delivered every six months for £8.98 each time.

Where to buy the SURI toothbrush

The best place to get the SURI is probably the brand’s own website, where you can find both generations of the toothbrush as well as all the accessories you might want, including the travel case, chargers, magnetic mounts and toothpaste.

However, it’s also available at selected retailers, including Boots.

SURI alternatives

In terms of its environmental attributes, SURI is in a class of its own.

A few companies are attempting to make Oral care more environmental — for example, Georganics makes a sonic toothbrush with a “Zero to Landfill” scheme, through which the brand promises to responsibly dispose of your toothbrush.

However, it doesn’t have the same stylish mass appeal — it feels a bit granola and tree-hugging than SURI’s chic, Gwyneth Paltrow-friendly version of sustainability.

Plus, SURI puts a bigger emphasis on ensuring that its toothbrushes are made from environmentally friendly materials.

And, of course, if you’re not bothered about eco-credentials, there are tons of options available from normal high-street brands.

SMART doorbells are everywhere, but Eufy’s latest model is one of the best out there.

In this Eufy E340 video doorbell review, I’ve put it to the test so you get the real insight into what it’s like to live with.

Eufy E340 Video Doorbell, £159.99 £109.99 at Amazon

I’ve tested plenty of smart home devices, and video doorbells have become some of the most popular.

But too many lock you into pricey subscriptions or offer poor video quality that feels like a glorified buzzer.

Thankfully, the Eufy E340 is one of the best video doorbells I’ve tried, packed with features that work, and no monthly fees for the pleasure.

Eufy launched back in 2016 as part of Chinese tech giant Anker, and has quickly built a solid reputation in home security.

The E340 arrived in 2024, adding to Eufy’s already impressive lineup of smart doorbells.

It features dual cameras, colour night vision, smart motion detection, and built-in local storage; genuinely smart tech that delivers on its promises.

While it’s not the first doorbell I’ve tested with these features — the Ezviz EP3x Pro I reviewed comes close and even adds solar power —the E340 still manages to stand out.

Read on for my full thoughts on how the E340 performs in real life.

How I tested

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Eufy E340 Video Doorbell, £159.99 £109.99 at Amazon

I’ve tested my fair share of smart doorbells, from Ring and Tapo to budget buys, so I’ve got a pretty good feel for what’s worth your money.

For the past couple of months, the Eufy E340 has been stationed on my front porch, which sees a steady stream of parcels and visitors.

It’s had to brave typical UK weather, deal with delivery drivers, and keep up with the comings and goings of a busy family home.

I tried it in all sorts of conditions, day and night, rain and shine, using the Eufy app for alerts to see how well it performs.

After having it watch over my front door for a while, I have to say I’m impressed.

The Nitty-Gritty

First impressions

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Eufy E340 Video Doorbell, £159.99 £109.99 at Amazon

I expected a solid smart doorbell, but the Eufy E340 felt more like a mini security system.

It’s bigger than most doorbells I’ve tried, thanks to having two cameras stacked vertically.

In the box, you get the E340 unit itself, a mounting kit, a charging cable, and some straightforward setup instructions.

The build feels premium and sturdy. It inspires confidence, unlike some others that just come off cheap and plasticky.

Setting it up was fairly easy. You start by mounting the bracket, then the doorbell just snaps right into place.

It comes with a small security key to remove the unit to charge, which is smart, but you’ll want to keep that key safe; it’s tiny and easy to lose.

Once I downloaded the Eufy app, the rest was a breeze. Just follow the on-screen steps, and you’re up and running in no time.

If you’re going fully wired, there’s a bit more faff involved, but with my battery-powered setup, things were a lot simpler.

Does it deliver?

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Eufy E340 Video Doorbell, £159.99 £109.99 at Amazon

The Eufy E340 was smarter than I expected right out of the box, thanks to the 8GB of onboard storage built into the doorbell.

That’s enough to keep about a month’s worth of footage, depending on how busy your front door is.

You can add a HomeBase later if you want more storage, but I like that it’s an optional add-on, so there’s no extra gadgets to worry about right away.

That said, if you want the HomeBase, be ready to splash out another £159, though it’s really aimed at people who already have a wider ecosystem of Eufy gadgets.

If you just want the doorbell, it’s not a must-have, so you can skip it without missing out.

One feature I like having on hand is Delivery Guard. It doesn’t just notify you when a parcel arrives, it’ll also give you a heads-up if someone’s hanging around your doorstep so you can react.

Thankfully, I’ve not had to experience it in action, but it’s nice knowing it’s got your back.

Plus, with that second camera pointing down, I could always take a quick peek at the doorstep whenever I wanted.

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Eufy E340 Video Doorbell, £159.99 £109.99 at Amazon

For night vision, you get two choices: a subtle but effective black-and-white IR mode, and a full-colour spotlight mode that lights up faces near your door.

The colour mode does lose a bit of clarity around the edges, but honestly, I’d much rather see who’s there in colour than grey shadows.

The Eufy app ties everything together nicely, and it’s simple to use, quick to pull up live views, and makes it easy to filter clips by date or device.

There wasn’t the two-way talk lag that I’ve experienced on other doorbells like this, so speaking through it felt a lot more natural.

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I also liked the quick-reply messages, perfect for those times when you’re busy and can’t have a proper chat but still want to get a message across.

Battery life is solid too, with its 6,500 mAh battery; Eufy says it can last up to six months.

I’ve been using mine for just under two, and I’m nowhere near needing to recharge yet, with about 70% still in the tank.

If you don’t want to worry about charging at all, you can wire it up and forget it. Sadly, I don’t have existing wiring, so that wasn’t an option for me.

It’s true, the E340 isn’t the smallest doorbell around, but it’s definitely one of the sleekest.

It packs a bunch of smart features and sharp video quality without slapping you with subscription fees, just be ready for the upfront cost.

If you want a doorbell that bolsters your home security without any sneaky costs, this one’s a strong contender.

How much is the Eufy E340?

The E340 usually costs £159.99, but right now it’s on sale for £109.99, which feels like a bargain for what you get.

You’re paying mid-to-high-end prices, but with 2K dual cameras, night vision, and local storage included, it’s great value.

Add the HomeBase S380 for another £160 if you want more storage, and the upfront cost does jump quite a bit.

That said, compared to Ring’s ongoing subscription fees for cloud storage, the Eufy starts to look like the smarter long-term deal.

Where to buy the Eufy E340

You can pick up the Eufy E340 as a standalone unit, and right now it’s on sale.

It’s available from most major UK retailers, including:

Eufy E340 alternatives

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If the Eufy E340 isn’t quite what you’re after, there are a few solid alternatives worth considering.

The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus offers a sleeker design and sharp video, but just be ready for those subscription fees if you want full access to storage and extra features.

Then there’s the Ezviz EP3x Pro, which packs similar smart features and video quality, plus it throws in solar power for easy, hassle-free charging.

For those on a budget, the Tapo D235 is a decent option with good video and handy features, though it doesn’t have the same level of polish as the Eufy.

LEGGINGS are a clothing item that everyone needs in their wardrobe.

The best leggings will be comfortable, supportive and flattering on every body shape, and we’ve put some of the hero brands to the test.

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Flimsy, see-through leggings are a thing of the past, as there’s a whole world of high-quality options that don’t compromise on style.

From fitness activities to running errands, a pair of leggings have become the ultimate throw-on-and-go fashion item.

They pair with everything from chunky knitwear to fitted tops, and they’re my go-to for wearing at home when I still want to feel put together.

High-waisted leggings, flared styles and sculpting options are all popular, and scrunch-bum leggings are also trending for enhancing the silhouette.

We’ve put a selection of styles through the ringer to see if they’re worth the money, from Gymshark, Halara, Tala and more.

Best leggings at a glance:

How I tested

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There are a few important features to consider when searching for the perfect pair of leggings.

Firstly (and most importantly), a good pair of leggings need to be comfortable.

As a fashion item that will be worn to the gym or for lounging at home, they need to be stretchy enough to wear for long periods without digging into the skin.

One hurdle that leggings often fall at is having a see-through design, and I was closely keeping an eye on the quality of each pair.

I also considered any special features, including sculpting styles, sweat-wicking properties and how they feel on the skin.

I wore the leggings for visits to the gym, long walks, and for lounging at home, to determine whether they work as fashion all-rounders.

Gymshark Vital Seamless Leggings

Gymshark Vital Seamless Leggings, £45

Pros: Comfortable, supportive waistband, sweat-wicking, flattering on the waist, wide range of colour options

Cons: Expensive when full price, slightly tight on the waist

Rating: 5/5

I’ve been wearing Gymshark leggings for years, and they’re yet to disappoint me.

The Vital Seamless Leggings are not only a brand bestseller, but they’re also my new favourite.

Featuring sweat-wicking technology and breathable mesh dots, they’re comfortable even after intense workouts, and I don’t ever need to worry about sweat patches.

The feature I love the most is the supportive ribbed waistband.

It sits high on the stomach, sucking me in without ever feeling suffocating.

For more cinching styles, read our roundup of the best high-waisted leggings.

Gymshark’s leggings have mastered the balance between comfort and style, smoothing out lumps and bumps around my waist and thighs, while still remaining comfortable enough to wear for long periods.

At full-price, the leggings are on the expensive side, but Gymshark often has big sales with price drops of up to 50%.

Leg length: Full; Size range: XXS-XXL; Colours available: 11 colours, Fabric: Nylon and elastane

BetterMe High Impact Mesh Leggings

BetterMe High Impact Mesh Leggings, £52

Pros: Stretchy, sweat-wicking, nice colour, smooths lumps and bumps, subtly shapes the figure

Cons: Expensive

Rating: 5/5

BetterMe is best-known for its health coaching app, but branched out into the activewear space in 2022.

I tried the brand’s High Impact Mesh Leggings, and I honestly can’t fault them.

Firstly, I’m obsessed with the dark green colourway, but the pair also comes in burgundy, black and ivory shades.

The leggings have a stretchy design that feels so soft on the skin, with a high-rise fit that flatters the figure.

The waistband and mesh detailing are why they’re so comfortable for wearing all day, and I’ve been reaching for them to exercise and for running errands.

Made from nylon and lycra, they give light tummy control, and I’ve noticed how much they smooth out my thighs.

Leg length: Full; Size range: XS-XXL; Colours available: Four colours, Fabric: Nylon and lycra spandex

Marks & Spencer Good Move Go Balance High Waisted Yoga Leggings

Marks & Spencer Good Move Go Balance High Waisted Yoga Leggings, £25

Pros: Flattering, comfortable, shaping/slimming, stretchy, soft, cool and breathable, V waist 

Cons: Limited colour range 

Rating: 5/5

These leggings are perfect for yoga and pretty much any other occasion, too.

They’re silky soft and cosy but still lightweight and breathable so that you won’t overheat during a workout.

I love the flattering V-shaped waistband; it’s unique and has a nice twist on a regular pair of black leggings.

But also, it makes your waist smaller and your bum look lifted.

The leggings will pair perfectly with running trainers, and we tested some of the best styles.

At the moment, it only comes in black, burgundy and a printed design, but hopefully, M&S will launch more colours soon.

Leg length: Full, Size range: 6-24; Colours available: 2, Fabric: Polyester and elastane

Halara UltraSculpt High Waisted Scrunch Bum Leggings

Halara UltraSculpt High Waisted Scrunch Butt Leggings, £30.95 (was £50.95)

Pros: Lifts the bum, sculpts the figure, compression to smooth out bumps, good selection of lengths and colours, currently on sale

Cons: Ruching is quite visible, feels tight

Rating: 4/5

Halara is the TikTok-famous brand that even Taylor Swift is fan of, and I tried UltraSculpt Scrunch Butt Leggings.

Featuring compression for shaping, a V-shaped waistband and an ultra-high waist, the stretchy leggings are just as comfortable as they are flattering.

The all-over compression held me in while smoothing out unwanted bumps, and the black colourway is ideal for both exercise and everyday wear.

The leggings feature padding and ruching that lifts the butt, and while the design is quite discreet, I would prefer if it was completely invisible.

Halara currently has a huge sale on, where shoppers can save up to 80% sitewide, and the sculpting leggings are reduced by £20.

Read our full Halara leggings review.

Leg length: Full; Size range: XS-XXL; Colours available: 20 colours, Fabric: Nylon and elastane

TALA SkinLuxe High Waisted Flared Legging

TALA SkinLuxe High Waisted Flared Legging, £59

Pros: Flattering flared leg, waistband doesn’t fall down, super soft, easy to put on, comfortable, back pocket with zip, lightweight, sustainable (made from recycled nylon) 

Cons: Only available in four colours 

Rating: 5/5

TALA’s SkinLuxe flared leggings have been one of our favourites for a while now.

Flared jeans are so in right now, and so are flared leggings. 

Not only are they trendy, but this shape is really flattering on the waist, thighs and bum.

They’re great for accentuating curves without being skin-tight.

I wear this pair all the time, as they’re ideal for WFH and then heading out for a walk with friends.

They’re also great for hardcore workouts, especially on days when you’re feeling a little bloated or feel like covering up a bit more, as the high waist will not roll down.

Leg length: Full; Size range: XS to XL; Colours available: 4 colours; Fabric: Recycled nylon and lycra

What to wear with leggings?

There are two reasons why leggings are a wardrobe staple.

Firstly, they’re comfortable for every occasion, and they can be worn with just about anything.

For lounging at home and running errands, leggings can be styled with T-shirts, knitwear and trainers, but they can also be teamed with various activewear for trips to the gym.

Leggings also make a great base for layering during the colder months, and they look effortlessly stylish paired with longline coats and a crossbody bag.

Building a capsule wardrobe means finding timeless clothing items that can be styled in multiple ways, and leggings are the item that does just that.

How to style flared leggings?

Flared leggings have made a comeback in recent years, and they’ve become a popular choice for everyday and loungewear.

Traditionally worn for yoga, the wide-leg style could be thrown on for any occasion, giving me of an elevated feel than traditional leggings.

The design is also flattering on every body type, and they look stylish paired with tank tops, cropped T-shirts, cardigans and leather jackets.

Tala, the clothing brand founded by influencer Grace Beverly, is known for its figure-flattering flared leggings.

It has a range of flared styles available on the site to pair with crop tops, sweatshirts and more.

Do Gymshark leggings run small?

Gymshark leggings are usually considered to be true to size, but the sizing is largely down to the individual styles.

I tested Gymshark’s Vital Seamless Leggings (the brand’s bestseller), and I found the design to be exactly true to size.

It’s always worth reading the product reviews before taking the plunge to determine how accurate the sizing will be.

THE cordless vacuum revolution is in full swing, and Shark’s IZ202UKT has swaggered onto the scene promising to banish dust bunnies and pet hair with ease and style.

I’ve put the Shark IZ202UKT to the test to see if it’s all flash and no substance, or if it’s the sleek domestic godsend we’ve been praying for.

Shark IZ202UKT Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, £279.99 from Amazon

Pros:

• 40-minute battery life
• Good-sized dustbin (0.7L)
• Quiet on hard floors
• Sleek and premium design
• Lights that highlight missed dirt
• Powerful boost trigger
• Compact to store
• Easy to use
• Anti-hair wrap technology

Cons

• Heavier than other models
• Can struggle in tight corners with the main attachment

Rating: 8.5/10

How I tested

Shark IZ202UKT Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, £279.99 from Amazon

I tested the Shark cordless vacuum out for two months on long- and short-pile carpets and three types of hard floors: laminate, vinyl and engineered wood.

During the testing period, I used each of the attachments and tested the battery by seeing how long it took to run down from a full charge using the normal power (39 minutes) and boost functions (seven and a half minutes).

I used it as my only vacuum during this period to see how well it fares in everyday life, including on stairs and in my car.

I took into consideration the design, ease of use and its innovative functions like the flexology, anti-hair wrap technology and LED headlights.

Shark IZ202UKT review: The Nitty Gritty

First impressions

Shark IZ202UKT Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, £279.99 from Amazon

Pulling the Shark IZ202UKT out of its box, I could immediately tell it was a solid, well-constructed bit of kit.

It came with four attachments (main anti-hair wrap, upholstery, pet and crevice tools), and assembling the vacuum was a breeze, a testament to Shark’s genuinely logical design.

Everything clicked satisfyingly into place, no head-scratching required.

After charging the vacuum, it took seconds to assemble it before I was ready to tackle the dust bunnies that had taken up residence on my floors.

Does it deliver?

Shark IZ202UKT Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, £279.99 from Amazon

One of the first things I noticed about the Shark is how quiet it is in hard floor mode.

It glides effortlessly across laminate, vinyl and wood, sucking up everything from fine dust to larger debris without a fuss.

I could definitely hear and feel the difference in the power when I switched to carpet mode, and then hear it level up again when I squeezed the trigger for max power.

The max power setting is really effective at sucking up those stubborn bits of fluff and pet hair ingrained in the carpet.

Battery life

The Achilles’ heel of many cordless vacuums is battery life. I’ve had vacuums in the past that would conk out halfway through my vacuuming session, leaving me with a half-clean house.

This is not an issue I experienced with the Shark IZ202UKT.

I used it in multiple rooms, switching between hard floor and carpet modes, and I managed to vacuum the entire house with battery still left over.

Shark claims up to 40 minutes of run time, and during my tests, it consistently delivered between 37-40 minutes, on standard power settings.

When I tested it using Max power only, it lasted seven and a half minutes, which I think is relatively impressive.

If used on the standard settings with a few bursts of max power when needed, I’m optimistic most people will be able to tackle a substantial portion of their home, if not the whole thing, without needing to pause for a recharge.

If you have a larger home, you could opt to purchase a spare battery to swap out when needed.

Dustbin capacity, Flexology wand and LED lights

Another unsung hero of the IZ202UKT is its nice big bin — I was able to vacuum most of the house before needing to empty it.

This might sound like a small thing, but anyone whose vacuum forces them to constantly empty a tiny dustbin will appreciate the sheer convenience of this.

The bin is also quick, easy and mess-free to empty.

Shark has designed something called the Flexology wand, which is a very handy feature for multiple reasons.

With a simple press of a button, the wand bends in half, making it super easy to vacuum under furniture, beds, and sofas without having to contort yourself or move heavy items.

It’s also ideal for compact storage as it more than halves the height of the vacuum, making it easy to tuck into cupboards.

Another feature I really liked, and one you likely won’t realise you need until you have it, is the integrated LED lights.

They illuminate dust, crumbs, and pet hair that you would otherwise completely miss, especially under furniture, in dimly lit corners, or even just in a room with poor natural light.

This is also a feature my colleague Aaron raved about in his Dyson V15 Detect review.

Downsides

In terms of cons, there are two things I noticed which are worth bearing in mind.

The cordless vacuum cleaner weighs 5.16kg, which may not sound like a lot, but when you’re vacuuming for 40 minutes straight, you’ll likely feel your arm start to ache.

I was especially aware of the added weight, as my former vacuum (Dyson V8 Animal) weighs less than half the Shark, at 2.54kg.

The other downside is its agility.

The main attachment is quite large, and I noticed that it struggles to get right into the corners, occasionally leaving bits of fluff behind.

Again, I found this especially noticeable compared to the Dyson Animal V8 I was using previously, which is a lot slimmer and more nimble.

It was easily solved by switching to the crevice tool, but it caused a slight inconvenience.

How much is the Shark IZ202UKT vacuum cleaner?

The Shark IZ202UKT Anti Hair Wrap Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner retails in the UK for £350; however, it’s often on sale and has been spotted for as low as £189.

It can currently be found on sale for £189 at Go Electrical, or you can buy a refurbished model for £169 on Shark’s eBay store.

Where to buy the Shark IZ202UKT

Shark IZ202UKT Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, £279.99 from Amazon

You can find the Shark IZ202UKT at a variety of retailers across the UK, both online and in physical stores, including:

Alternatives

There are a few strong contenders in the cordless stick vacuum market that offer similar features to the Shark model.

Dyson V8 Absolute: Although an older model, the Dyson V8 Absolute is often available at a more affordable price point than newer Dysons, and it still offers excellent suction and the premium Dyson build quality.

It’s lighter than the Shark IZ202UKT, which might appeal if arm ache is a concern. However, it lacks the Flexology wand and automatic hair detangling of the Shark.

It’s currently priced around £250, £100 less than the RRP of the Shark.

Vax Blade 4 Classic Plus Cordless Vacuum Cleaner: This model is frequently praised for being an affordable all-rounder.

It offers impressive pick-up capabilities on various floor types and comes with a good range of tools, making it a solid choice for everyday cleaning.

You can often find it for between £140 and £230.

Shark PowerPro Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum: If you’re looking for an alternative within the Shark family, then the PowerPro Pet is a great option.

It has a lot of the same features with a slightly longer run time than the IZ202UKT (50 mins), but is slightly heavier at 5.68kg (vs 5.13kg).

It can be found for around the same price point (£190-280), too.

Dyson V12 Detect: For a bit more money, you could get the Dyson V12 Detect, which has 60 minutes of battery life, hair detangling, and a laser which illuminates invisible dust.

It’s a lot lighter than the Shark but does have a smaller bin.

The RRP is £499.99, but it’s currently on sale for £380. Read our Dyson V15 Detect review here.

ON the hunt for the best waterproof mascara? We’ve made it easy for you, with our tried and tested top picks for every budget.

Whether you’ve got sensitive eyes that are prone to getting watery, are dealing with humidity and rain, or simply want gorgeous fluttery lashes that are smudge-proof – having a tube of waterproof mascara in your makeup bag is a must.

With so many formulas out there to choose from though, it can be hard to find the best option but fear not: below are 13 of the best contenders for 2024, meticulously tried and tested to deliver flake-resistant perfection.

These waterproof heroes boast buildable formulas, delivering both length and volume to your lashes without compromising on durability.

Each one has been put through its paces, so read on for my honest thoughts on each product – and get ready to say ‘goodbye’ to panda eyes and ‘hello’ to perfect lashes that withstand rain, sweat, and tears…

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Best waterproof mascaras at a glance:

Mac Mascara in Extreme Dimension Waterproof

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Mac Mascara in Extreme Dimension Waterproof, £25

Pros: Seriously thick, great brush

Cons: Quite expensive

Rating: 5/5

Mac says that this is a lightweight, whipped mascara and I can see why.

Honestly, this is hands down one of my favourite mascaras as the wand seamlessly pulls out of the tube, with just enough mascara liquid on the brush.

Applying this mascara is like a dream; I didn’t need many coats for a voluminous, dark look, and despite a few clumps lingering on the brush, my lashes were clump-free.

I loved the look of my lashes after applying this Mac mascara, and it lasted throughout a gym workout, a shower, and the rest of my day.

Plus, when I applied this mascara, the entire lash was coated from root to tip and there was zero smudging. 

Hands down, this mascara is worth every penny and I am already recommending it to all my friends and family.

Shade: 3D Black, Size: 12g, Vegan: No

Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Waterproof Mascara

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Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Waterproof Mascara, £29 £23.20

Pros: Sleek bottle, curved brush grabs all lashes

Cons: Expensive

Rating: 5/5

Lancome is a dream brand; its products do what they claim, and they do it well.

This mascara is essentially the waterproof version of the cult Hypnôse Drama Mascara, and it’s just as good.

I love Lancome packaging; it’s sleek and chic and always looks expensive. For just under £30, though (when not on sale) you’d hope this mascara looks expensive — it costs the equivalent of my weekly food shop. 

The curved brush of this mascara latched onto every one of my lashes and gave my eyes a really nice wide-open look. This is ideal on those mornings when a lack of sleep leaves your eyes looking half-closed.

Lancome says that the waterproof formula of this mascara has up to 24-hour hold, and I can certainly vouch for the claim that it stays put. I had dark eyes and long lashes all day long! Even my tiny lashes were caught by this brush.

Taking this mascara off was also simple and I wasn’t left with awful panda eyes or clumps of mascara that wouldn’t budge.

Shade: Excessive Black, Size: 6ml, Vegan: No

READ MORE:

Mavala Volume and Length Waterproof Mascara

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Mavala Volume and Length Waterproof Mascara, £19.40 £17.46

Pros: Great price, contains healthy ingredients

Cons: A bit clumpy

Rating: 5/5

The Mavala mascara comes in a bottle that looks nothing like the others we tested. It’s white for starters and it looks almost slightly medical, as though it’s filled with health perks.

That sounds odd for a mascara, but when I researched the ingredients, it turns out there are actually several lash-boosting benefits. 

It’s protein enriched, offering your lashes extra nourishment, while its antioxidant ingredients hydrate too. Meanwhile, Bisabolol is soothing, meaning less irritation. This makes it great for sensitive eyes. 

I like the brush as it’s thick and contains zero clumps, plus it just glides out of the tube really nicely. Applying this mascara was a dream as it slid onto my lashes without any bumps and it latched onto every lash offering a nice intense dark colour.

You can pick up this mascara in several different shades too, so if you don’t fancy black, like me, you could opt for a blue or even a plum shade.

Shade: Black, Size: 10ml, Vegan: No

Benefit Badgal Bang Waterproof Mascara

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Benefit Badgal Bang Waterproof Mascara, £27

Pros: Catches every lash, don’t need many coats to achieve an intense black

Cons: A thicker brush would be nice

Rating: 4.5/5

I wore this to the gym and for the rest of my day and it didn’t smudge or budge, so I know this is a reliable mascara.

The bottle is beautifully designed and Benefit tends to be one of those brands that looks good on your bathroom shelf or in your makeup bag. 

I will say that I prefer a thicker brush, and when I pulled this brush out of the tube, I didn’t feel like it would do a great job. But having said that, I managed to achieve a pretty dark intense lash look with just a couple of coats and the brush definitely caught every lash, from root to tip, as the product claims.

It caught even the small lashes on the bottom, which I often find end up carrying big mascara clumps. 

This mascara also contains provitamin B5 which apparently is known to fuel thickness, so that’s a bonus.

Shade: Black, Size: 8.5g, Vegan: No

Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara

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Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara, £25

Pros: No clumps, smooth application, brush seamlessly pulls out of tube

Cons: None

Rating: 4.5/5

When a mascara starts to veer above the £15 mark, I do expect good things.

Clinique hasn’t disappointed with this mascara; the brush pulls effortlessly out of the tube which is incredibly satisfying and it feels like a nice, expensive product. 

I didn’t need many coats to get a bold colour, and the brush caught every lash easily, with no clumps. Plus, it stuck all day through a workout and a full out-and-about in the city. There was also no smudging around the eyes.

Clinique also says this is ideal for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers too, so you can rest safe in the knowledge that your eyes won’t suffer.

Another point I will make about Clinique is that its products always feel ‘clean’, from the nice, natural green packaging (including this mascara tube) to the feel of the product itself, which always does what it says without feeling heavy or chemical-heavy.

Shade: Black or black brown, Size: 8ml, Vegan: No

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara

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Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara, £12.99 £9.49

Pros: Love the bottle, cheaper than some alternatives, stayed in place all day

Cons: Ever so slightly clumpy

Rating: 4/5

As Maybelline would say: “Maybe she’s born with it; maybe it’s Maybelline.’

Well, I wasn’t born with incredibly long lashes, but this Maybelline mascara certainly gave me the volume and length I was after.

This lasted through a sweaty run and through the rest of my day, but came off easily when I finally went to bed in the evening. During the day, though, it didn’t budge an inch.

The price is mid-range, which makes it more affordable than many others, and Maybelline is one of those brands you can just rely on. It’s a household name, after all. 

I liked how the brush smoothly pulled out of the bottle, and the brush definitely latched on to all my lashes really well. Plus, the mascara formula has apparently been ‘infused with bamboo extract and fibres for long, full lashes that never get weighed down’.

This mascara was ever so slightly clumpy on the smaller lashes, but it wasn’t too much of a problem. 

I’ll definitely be keeping this in my handbag going forward.

Shade: Black, Size: 9.6ml, Vegan: No

Boots No7 Intense Volume Waterproof Mascara

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No7 Intense Volume Waterproof Mascara, £9.56

Pros: Thick brush, leaves zero clumps, good price point

Cons: Several layers needed to achieve an intense colour

Rating: 4/5

Another brand that can pretty much always be relied on is Boots’ No7.

This waterproof mascara is most certainly waterproof, and only smudged slightly when I rubbed my wet eyes after coming out of the shower; pretty impressive considering how soaked my face was.

I like the brush and how smooth it comes out of the tube, and I like how nice it feels to apply to lashes. I picked up even the smallest of lashes with this mascara wand, though I did need several coats to really get the dark black colour that I love.

I wore this on a Saturday morning following a measly five hours of sleep and it definitely helped me to look more awake. Sometimes, you just need to fake it till you make it!

Shade: , Size: 7ml, Vegan: Black

Freezeframe Instant Lash Xtreme

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Instant Lash Xtreme, £38

Pros: Comes off easily, clings to every lash, sob-proof (I wore it to a wedding)

Cons: Very expensive, not as bold as I’d like

Rating: 4/5

I was hoping for the crème de la crème of mascaras with this one, considering its eye-wateringly high price. 

It didn’t disappoint.

The aim of this mascara is to give the look of professional lash extensions. I’m not sure if it did that, but it certainly brushed on incredibly smoothly, opened up my eyes and stayed put during a very teary wedding ceremony.

I loved the brush too, which caught every lash and made me look awake and alert (despite a groggy wine head…).

Despite this mascara being budge-proof when I cried and sweated, it was easy to remove at the end of the day, which is always a good thing as I find that overly rubbing my eyes to remove makeup ruins the thin skin that sits around my peepers.

Shade: Black, Size: 8ml, Vegan: Yes

Catrice Pure Volume Mascara Waterproof

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Catrice Pure Volume Mascara Waterproof, £3.95

Pros: Feels expensive, thick brush

Cons: A little clumpy

Rating: 4/5

The first thing I noticed about this bargain mascara was how totally non-bargain it felt. The tube feels quality and I love the gold lid. 

Luckily, the mascara itself is of a decent quality. I actually got caught in a classic British downpour whilst wearing this, with zero brolly or hood. My face was dripping, yet my cheap-as-chips mascara stayed put. So it’s certainly waterproof. 

As for the mascara itself, it applies beautifully, and every lash was caught by the brush.

I did apply a few layers for the darkness I desire, but this is my personal preference. As I am dark-haired, I like my lashes to be extra dark! 

This mascara is also enriched with ricinus oil and almond oil to help nourish lashes and promote hair growth, so I was pretty happy knowing that I was showing my lashes plenty of love.

Shade: Black, Size: 10ml, Vegan: Yes

Collection Lash Surge Waterproof Mascara

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Collection Lash Surge Mascara, £5.99

Pros: Smells delicious, dark intense colour

Cons: Brush gets a little clumpy, smudges

Rating: 3.5/5

The dual wand applicator that comes with this mascara means that an even amount of product is layered on the lashes, so there are fewer clumps and less smudging under the eyes, which is ideal for people like me who are always applying their makeup in a rush.

However, over the course of a morning, I did notice some smudging from this mascara which was annoying as I didn’t realise until I looked in a mirror and had to do a cheeky little undereye sweep with my finger.

Generally though, a good amount of mascara came out when I applied this and I did only need a couple of coats for a really intense set of lashes.

Several of the more expensive mascaras didn’t have this level of intensity, so that’s a big positive for this bargain five quid product.

Shade: Black, Size: 8ml, Vegan: No

Catrice Glam & Doll False Lashes Waterproof Mascara

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Catrice Glam & Doll False Lashes Waterproof Mascara, £3.50 £3.30

Pros: Lovely design, smooth application

Cons: Brush feels quite thin, took a few coats to see visible difference

Rating: 3.5/5

This is another bargain mascara which is ideal for carrying around in your handbag. It costs less than a fiver, so I didn’t feel too precious about it and if I had lost it, I wouldn’t have had a meltdown. 

The brush is curved slightly which contributes to the ‘Glam and Doll False Lash effect’ as it latches to every lash for a really wide-eye appearance. But, I needed several coats to see a big difference and the brush did feel quite thin. 

I did like the fact that the mascara lived up to its waterproof claim as it didn’t budge at all throughout the day and I didn’t need to reapply either.

Again, this mascara just goes to show that the cheaper options can deliver really good results.

Shade: Black, Size: 10ml, Vegan: No

Essence I Love Extreme Crazy Volume Waterproof Mascara

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Essence I Love Extreme Crazy Volume Waterproof Mascara, £2.33 (campaign price)

Pros: Smells lovely, thick and bold, great brush, latched onto every lash, super cheap

Cons: Smudged a little, hard to get off completely

Rating: 3.5/5

A £2.33 mascara that’s actually decent is hard to come by. Until now.

For anyone wanting a cheaper option that works, then this fits the bill. The brush is super thick and although I did need to apply several coats, the brush did grab every lash, giving an even coating of mascara. 

Plus, as the name suggests, this mascara does offer mega volume; my eyes were dark! A gym workout, Pilates, meeting and a dinner date were no bother for this mascara as it stayed put throughout.

It was a little tricky to take off, but for £2.33, I really cannot fault this.

Shade: Black, Size: 12ml, Vegan: No

Essence Lash Princess False Lash Waterproof Mascara

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Essence Lash Princess False Lash Waterproof Mascara, £3.29

Pros: No clumps, total bargain, very sweatproof

Cons: Requires reapplication

Rating: 3/5

Essence is a brand that’s been around for a while, and it’s notorious for its low price-point products.

But low price doesn’t mean bad quality, as this mascara proves.

It stood the test of time when I wore it in the gym during a brutally sweaty boxing session on a Friday morning. There was minimal smudging around the eyes, and when I rubbed my eyes with a towel, I didn’t end up looking like a panda. 

Much like the other cheaper mascaras, you do need a fair few coats to really see the benefit of high-impact lashes, but there was actually minimal clumping on the lashes when I applied this mascara and the colour itself is dark. 

I did reapply a couple of times during the day but this was more so that my lashes were lengthened as opposed to wanting a darker eye. 

Big fan of this one; it’s made it into the gym bag makeup case already.

Shade: Black, Size: 12ml, Vegan: No (but is cruelty-free)

Where can I buy waterproof mascara in the UK?

Finding the perfect waterproof mascara can be a daunting task. However, with numerous options available both in-store and online, you’re definitely spoilt for choice.

Not only does investing in a waterproof mascara promise smudge-free, flake-resistant lashes, but it also provides peace of mind in the face of our unpredictable British weather.

Whether you prefer the convenience of online shopping or the experience of browsing in-store, waterproof mascaras are readily available – so you can effortlessly elevate your lash game.

To help you get started, we’ve listed some of our favourite retailers below:

How much does waterproof mascara cost?

Curious about the cost of achieving smudge-free, waterproof lashes? As with most beauty products, prices can vary depending on factors like brand, formulation and retailer.

From budget-friendly options to high-end splurges, you’ll definitely find something that suits your budget.

To give you an idea of what to expect; in our roundup, the most expensive waterproof mascara was Freezeframe’s Instant Lash Xtreme at £38, which certainly didn’t disappoint.

Meanwhile, the cheapest was Essence I Love Extreme Crazy Volume Waterproof Mascara which at a campaign price of just £2.33 definitely fits the bill if you’re on a tight budget.

Can I wear waterproof mascara while swimming?

Yes! Waterproof mascara is designed to withstand moisture and is often marketed as suitable for activities like swimming.

Its formulation creates a barrier against water, helping to prevent smudging and flaking, even when exposed to splashes or full immersion.

However, while it provides enhanced durability compared to regular mascara, its effectiveness may vary depending on the product, application and how long you’re in the water.

Some people find waterproof mascara ideal for swimming, while others prefer additional eye protection like goggles. See how you get on and what you prefer: personally, we love it if we’re headed to the beach and know there’ll be some splashes!

How to remove waterproof mascara

International makeup artist and content creator Sophia Brad says that a cleansing balm or oil-based cleanser is the best way to remove waterproof mascara.

“Gently massage your closed eyes, feeling how the mascara is dissolving and then rinse it off with warm water or a wipe with a damp cloth,” she says.

“I often double cleanse either with a gel or mousse cleanser or micellar water. Keep in mind that any waterproof product takes a bit longer to remove, so be patient. Needless to say as you’re dealing with your eye area it’s important to be gentle.”

What to look for in a waterproof mascara

“One thing to look for is the word ‘waterproof’ rather than ‘water-resistant’, explains Sophia.

“Just like any other mascara it’s down to the effect you want it to have on your lashes, may it be volume, length, curl, etc.

“Waterproof mascaras tend to feel less wet at application as they contain waxes and some of them contain traces of alcohol, and therefore will dry quicker which also means that after using it for a couple of months some of them can start to crumble a few hours into wearing them. So if you’re a contact lens wearer this might cause you some mild irritation.

“This will be your sign to replace your waterproof mascara – probably sooner than your regular mascara.”

How to stop waterproof mascara from smudging

There is in fact a nifty card trick you can try to neaten up your mascara application.

“Position a business card or bank card on your moving eyelid, apply your mascara and any smudges will end up on the card rather than your eyelid,” says Sophia.

“The rule with any fresh mascara smudges is to let them dry and then remove them with a cotton bud.”