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How K-beauty moved into the UK skincare mainstream

How K-beauty moved into the UK skincare mainstream

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The difference is that shoppers are no longer just curious about Korean skincare. They are actively buying into the category, learning how products fit together and searching for formulas that match specific concerns. That move from discovery to repeat purchase is what has helped K-beauty become more than a passing trend.

The numbers reflect this shift. Cosmetics Business reported that searches for Korean skin care on TikTok Shop UK rose 125% in the second half of 2025, while K-beauty baskets were almost 35% higher in value than the overall skin care average. For retailers, that suggests a category with both strong visibility and serious commercial pull.

From Social Discovery to Serious Skincare Demand

Social platforms have played a major role in bringing K-beauty to wider UK audiences. A viral cleanser, toner pad, serum or SPF can introduce shoppers to a brand almost instantly. But social discovery alone does not explain why the category has lasted.

The real strength of K-beauty is that it gives consumers a practical way to approach skincare. Products are often understood through skin concerns, textures and steps: cleansing, hydration, barrier support, sun protection or targeted treatment. That makes the category easy to explore, but also useful enough to return to.

This is why K-beauty now feels less like a novelty and more like part of everyday skincare. UK shoppers are becoming more confident about asking which ingredients suit their skin, how products should be layered and what role each step plays in their daily habits.

Why K-Beauty Is Becoming Easier to Buy in the UK

Availability has also changed the market. A few years ago, many Korean skincare products felt specialist or difficult to access. Now, UK consumers can find K-beauty through high-street retailers, social commerce platforms and dedicated online stores.

Cosmetics Business has reported that Boots expanded its K-beauty range with brands including Anua, Skin1004 and Mixsoon, alongside existing customer favourites such as Laneige and Beauty of Joseon. That kind of retail presence matters because it gives the category more credibility with everyday shoppers. It also makes trial easier, especially for consumers who may have first seen a product online but want to buy from a retailer they recognise.

Specialist retailers still have an important role to play, particularly as the market becomes more crowded. Shoppers may know they are interested in Korean skincare, but still need help choosing between brands, ingredients, product types and skincare steps. As interest grows, specialist Korean skincare UK retailers can help shoppers navigate brands, ingredients, product types and skincare steps with more confidence.

What UK Shoppers Now Expect From K-Beauty

As K-beauty becomes more established, UK shoppers are becoming more selective. They increasingly expect:

  • Clear product information around ingredients, skin concerns and skincare steps
  • Reliable UK availability, rather than products that are difficult to source
  • Confidence that products are authentic and from trusted channels
  • Curated product edits that help shoppers move from viral discovery to confident repeat purchase

This is where K-beauty has an advantage over many trend-led categories. It has the excitement of discovery, but it also has enough structure to support long-term buying behaviour. A shopper might start with one viral product, then gradually explore hydration, SPF, soothing ingredients or barrier care in a more considered way.

What This Means for the Next Phase of UK Skincare

K-beauty’s rise also sits within a wider shift in facial skincare. Mintel estimates that the UK facial skincare category grew by 8.6% in 2025, with trial of K-beauty listed among the factors contributing to that growth. That points to a category that is not sitting outside the mainstream market, but actively influencing how consumers shop for skincare.

For beauty retailers, the opportunity is not simply to add more Korean products to the shelf. The more valuable opportunity is to present them clearly. That means merchandising by concern and product type, explaining benefits in plain language and helping shoppers understand how different items work together.

The next phase of K-beauty in the UK is likely to be shaped by this mix of excitement and education. Social platforms will continue to drive discovery, but long-term growth will depend on trust, availability and useful guidance.

That is how K-beauty has moved into the UK skincare mainstream. It gives consumers the appeal of discovery, while making everyday skincare easier to understand and return to.

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Can antioxidants really slow skin aging?

Can antioxidants really slow skin aging?

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What’s the story

Antioxidants are often touted as the holy grail of skincare, promising to fight aging and give you a radiant glow. But, how effective are they really?
This article delves into the science behind antioxidants in skincare, separating fact from myth.
By understanding how antioxidants work, you can make informed decisions about your skincare routine.
Let us explore the role of antioxidants and their real impact on skin health.

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Why Your Routine Shouldn’t Stop There

Why Your Routine Shouldn’t Stop There

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For years, skincare advice stopped at the jawline.

We cleansed, treated, moisturised and protected the face, then left the neck and chest to fend for themselves against sun, perfume, hot showers, posture, sleep creases and whatever active ingredients happened to migrate down.

Now, the neck is having its own skincare moment.

It makes sense. The skin on the neck and décolletage is often exposed to the same UV, pollution and environmental stress as the face, but it tends to get far less attention. It can also be thinner, more delicate and more prone to showing crepiness, lines, redness and uneven tone.

The new neck routine is not about panic-buying a dozen “firming” products. It is about treating the skin below your chin with the same basic respect you give your face: sunscreen in the morning, smart actives at night and enough moisturiser to keep the barrier calm.

In other words, your skincare routine may need to travel south.

Why the neck shows ageing early

Neck skin has a few disadvantages.

It moves constantly. You bend, tilt and turn it all day. You look down at your phone. You sleep on your side. You pull jumpers over it, spray fragrance near it and forget sunscreen on it.

It also has fewer oil glands than some parts of the face, which means it can feel dry or crepey sooner. Add years of sun exposure, natural collagen loss and hormonal changes in midlife, and the neck can start to show lines, laxity and texture changes before you expect it.

This does not mean your neck needs to look “young”. It means it may need different care.

Neck and décolletage age in similar ways to the face because they are chronically exposed to the sun. The same source recommends using many of the same protective and treatment ingredients on the neck and chest, with some caution because the area can be sensitive.

The real first step: sunscreen

If you do only one thing for your neck, make it sunscreen.

UV exposure is one of the biggest drivers of premature skin ageing, including wrinkles, pigmentation, rough texture and loss of elasticity. The neck and chest often get incidental sun during driving, walking, gardening, outdoor exercise and everyday errands.

The expert recommends broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.  Use it every day, apply enough, reapply when outdoors and do not stop at the chin.

Bring it down the neck, over the sides of the neck, onto the ears and across the upper chest if exposed.

This is especially important if you use retinoids, exfoliating acids, or clinic treatments, because the skin may become more sun-sensitive or vulnerable to irritation.

Should you use retinol on your neck?

Retinoids are among the most researched skincare ingredients for photoageing. They can support collagen production, improve skin texture and help soften the look of fine lines over time. But the neck is not always as tolerant as the face.

That is why the neck rule is: slower, gentler, less often.

If your face already tolerates retinol or retinal, you may be able to bring a small amount down to the neck one or two nights a week. Follow with moisturiser, and increase only if your skin stays calm. Avoid using strong prescription retinoids on the neck unless your dermatologist or GP has advised it.

If you notice stinging, peeling, itchiness, redness, or a tight burning feeling, pull back. The goal is not to force your neck to “get used to it”. It is to get benefits without wrecking the barrier.

A practical approach is the sandwich method: moisturiser first, a small amount of retinoid, then moisturiser again. This can make the active easier to tolerate.

Where peptides fit

Peptides are having a quiet comeback because they sit in a useful middle ground. They are generally gentler than retinoids and are often used in formulas designed for firmness, hydration and barrier support.

Peptides are short chains of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins such as collagen and elastin. In skincare, they are often included to support the look of smoother, firmer, more resilient skin.

They are not a facelift in a bottle. But for a neck routine, they can be useful because the area often needs consistency more than aggression. A peptide serum or moisturiser may suit people who cannot tolerate retinoids well, or who want a daily product that layers comfortably under sunscreen.

Do you need a separate neck cream?

Not always.

If your face moisturiser is rich enough and does not irritate your neck, you can use the same one below the jawline. If your neck is drier, more sensitive, or more crepey than your face, a dedicated neck cream may feel better because these formulas are often richer and designed to cushion the area.

What matters more than the label is the formula.

Look for ingredients that support hydration and barrier repair, such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, niacinamide and squalane. If you want an active formula, look for retinoids, peptides, antioxidants, or gentle exfoliating ingredients.

Avoid overloading the area with too many actives at once. The neck is one place where more is very often too much.

What about the chest?

The décolletage deserves the same routine.

The chest is exposed to sun, sleep compression and friction from clothing. It can develop pigmentation, redness, creases and crepey texture, especially if it has had years of UV exposure.

Bring your morning sunscreen down across the chest whenever that skin is exposed. At night, extend your moisturiser and gentle actives to the area too.

If you are using retinoids, go slowly here as well. The chest can react with irritation, especially if you are also using exfoliating acids, fragrance-heavy body products, or hot showers.

The bodycare trend is part of the same shift

The neck routine is not happening in isolation. Beauty is moving beyond face-only skincare.

Recent beauty trend coverage has pointed to bodycare becoming more skincare-like, with more interest in retinol body serums, active body washes, exfoliating sprays, lightweight body milks and targeted care for texture, pigmentation and body breakouts.

That shift makes sense. People have become more ingredient-literate. They understand sunscreen, retinoids, peptides and barrier repair on the face, so they are starting to ask why the rest of the skin gets ignored.

The trick is to avoid turning full-body care into another exhausting routine. Your neck and chest do not need 10 steps. They need consistency.

What clinic treatments can do

Skincare can help with prevention, texture, hydration and mild signs of ageing. But it has limits.

If your main concern is significant laxity, deeper horizontal neck lines, crepey skin, sun damage, redness, or pigmentation, clinic treatments may come into the conversation.

Depending on your skin, a dermatologist or qualified cosmetic practitioner may discuss options such as laser, radiofrequency, ultrasound tightening, microneedling, skin boosters, biostimulatory injectables, or prescription skincare.

Technologies such as ultrasound tightening, radiofrequency and laser treatments may be used for sagging skin, depending on the person and concern.

The important word is realistic. No cream or device will make neck skin behave like surgical lifting. If there is significant loose skin, surgery may be the only option that creates a dramatic change. If the concern is mild laxity, texture, or crepiness, non-surgical options may help, but results vary.

A simple neck routine to start

You do not need to overhaul everything. Start here.

Morning:
Cleanse gently, or rinse with water if your skin is dry. Apply a hydrating serum or moisturiser if needed. Finish with broad-spectrum sunscreen, bringing it down the neck and chest.

Evening:
Cleanse away sunscreen. Apply a moisturiser. If your skin tolerates actives, add a gentle retinoid one or two nights a week, or use a peptide serum on non-retinoid nights.

Once or twice a week:
If your neck is rough or dull, you may use a very gentle exfoliant, but do not combine it with retinoids on the same night. If you are prone to irritation, skip exfoliation and focus on moisturising instead.

Every day:
Look up from your phone more often, reapply sunscreen when outdoors and stop treating the neck as an afterthought.

Mistakes that can irritate the neck

The neck often reacts faster than the face, so be careful with these common mistakes:

  • using a strong face retinoid on the neck too often
  • layering retinoids, exfoliating acids and vitamin C too aggressively
  • applying fragrance or essential oils to sensitive skin
  • forgetting sunscreen after using actives
  • scrubbing crepey skin
  • starting multiple new products at once
  • treating redness, itching, or burning as “normal purging”

If your neck becomes inflamed, stop the actives and simplify. Use a gentle cleanser, bland moisturiser and sunscreen until the skin settles. If irritation persists, see your GP or dermatologist.

When to get a skin check

Any new, changing, bleeding, crusting, or non-healing spot on the neck or chest should be checked. These areas get plenty of sun exposure, and cosmetic concerns should never distract from skin cancer awareness.

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, so a neck and chest routine should not only be about smoothness. It should also be about protection and early detection.

If you are unsure about a spot, book a skin check.

The bottom line

Your neck does not need a complicated routine. It needs the basics you may already be giving your face.

Sunscreen matters most. Retinoids can help if used carefully. Peptides and barrier-supporting ingredients can be useful for firmness, hydration and comfort. Clinic treatments may have a role if skincare is not enough, but they should match the problem you actually have.

The new neck routine is not about chasing perfection. It is about realising that the skin below your chin has been doing the same work as your face, often with far less support.

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Hindustan Times News

Monsoon Skincare Essentials for Oily, Acne-Prone Skin

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Monsoon humidity is uniquely challenging for oily and acne-prone skin. The combination of sweat, excess sebum, and slower-drying products creates the perfect environment for breakouts, making this the season when a solid routine matters most. Here are the essentials that actually make a difference, and why each one earns its place in a monsoon routine specifically.

Monsoon Skincare Essentials for Oily, Acne-Prone Skin

Start with your cleanser. An acne face wash with salicylic acid clears out the oil and bacteria that build up faster in humid weather, reaching inside the pores rather than just cleaning the surface. Follow it with a niacinamide serum to regulate oil production throughout the day, since niacinamide also calms the inflammation that tends to flare up more during monsoon breakouts.

Hydration and sun protection round out the essentials. A cica moisturizer keeps the skin barrier calm without adding heaviness, which matters since stripped, dehydrated skin tends to produce even more oil to compensate. Finish every morning with a vitamin c sunscreen, since UV rays pass through clouds, and skipping sunscreen on rainy days undoes the rest of the routine’s progress.

Why Monsoon Is Harder on Oily, Acne-Prone Skin

Higher humidity increases sebum production, since sebaceous glands respond to moisture in the air by producing more oil. That oil mixes with sweat, pollution, and leftover product residue, sitting on the skin longer than it would in drier weather. Damp skin also creates a more hospitable environment for acne-causing bacteria, which is why breakouts often intensify specifically during the rainy months rather than staying consistent year-round.

The Monsoon Skincare Essentials Checklist

1. Salicylic acid face wash, morning and night

An acne face wash built around salicylic acid dissolves trapped sebum and dead skin inside the pore, which a regular cleanser can’t reach. Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into pores where it loosens excess sebum, dead skin cells, and debris.

Regular use helps reduce blackheads, whiteheads, and future congestion without aggressively scrubbing the skin. This is the single most important swap for oily, acne-prone skin during monsoon, and the one step that most directly prevents new breakouts from forming.

2. Niacinamide serum to regulate oil

A niacinamide serum applied after cleansing keeps oil production in check through humid afternoons and helps calm the redness that often comes with monsoon breakouts. Applying it to slightly damp skin helps it absorb more effectively before your moisturizer goes on.

3. Lightweight cica moisturizer, never skipped

A cica moisturizer hydrates without adding grease, and the cica itself soothes any irritation caused by humidity, sweat, or active ingredients elsewhere in the routine. Skipping moisturizer because skin feels oily is one of the most common monsoon mistakes, and it typically backfires by triggering even more oil production.

4. Vitamin C sunscreen, reapplied throughout the day

A vitamin C sunscreen protects against UV damage that continues even on overcast, rainy days, while also helping fade any pigmentation left over from summer sun exposure. Reapplication every 3 hours matters more in monsoon than people assume, since humidity and sweat can wear sunscreen off faster than usual.

5. Weekly clay mask for deeper cleansing

Once or twice a week, a clay-based mask draws out the sweat, oil, and impurities that a daily face wash alone can’t fully clear, keeping pores genuinely clean rather than surface-clean. This step becomes especially useful in the monsoon, when product and sweat buildup accumulate faster than usual.

Common Monsoon Mistakes to Avoid

● Skipping moisturizer because skin feels oily. This backfires and triggers more oil production, not less.

● Over-washing your face. Stripping the skin barrier more than twice a day worsens breakouts over time.

● Assuming cloudy days don’t need sunscreen. UV exposure continues regardless of visible sunlight.

● Using heavy, oil-based creams. These can settle within oily skin making pores clogged and breakouts worse rather than better.

Your Monsoon Routine, Morning and Night

Morning: cleanse with your acne face wash, apply niacinamide serum to slightly damp skin, follow with your cica moisturizer, and finish with vitamin C sunscreen before stepping outside, rain or shine. Night: double cleanse if you’ve worn sunscreen or makeup during the day, apply niacinamide serum again, and seal it in with your cica moisturizer. Two to three times a week, swap your evening moisturizer step for a clay mask session to deep clean pores that have accumulated sweat and oil throughout the humid day.

Do You Need to Change Your Skincare Routine Every Monsoon?

Not entirely, but a few swaps make a real difference. If your regular cleanser isn’t oil-focused, switching to a salicylic acid-based acne face wash for the season helps manage the extra sebum humidity causes. Similarly, if you use a richer moisturizer in winter, switching to a lighter cica moisturizer during monsoon prevents the clogged pores that heavier formulas can cause once humidity rises. Sunscreen and a targeted serum, on the other hand, are worth keeping consistent year-round rather than treating as seasonal additions.

Conclusion

Monsoon humidity creates the perfect environment for excess oil, sweat, and debris to accumulate inside pores, increasing the risk of blackheads and breakouts. A consistent routine that combines gentle cleansing, oil-regulating ingredients like niacinamide, pore-clearing actives such as salicylic acid, lightweight hydration, and daily sunscreen is more effective than over-cleansing or harsh scrubbing.

With regular care throughout the season, you can keep pores clear, maintain a healthy skin barrier and reduce recurring congestion. Cleanse with an acne face wash, treat with a niacinamide serum, moisturize with a cica moisturizer, and protect with a vitamin C sunscreen every single day. Stick to these essentials consistently through the season, and breakouts and excess oil become far easier to manage, rain or shine.

Note to readers: This article is part of HT’s paid consumer connect initiative and is independently created by the brand. HT assumes no editorial responsibility for the content, including its accuracy, completeness, or any errors or omissions. Readers are advised to verify all information independently.

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Apple App Store

9 Needle-Free Ways to Temporarily Smooth Wrinkles

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“Hearst Magazines and AOL may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links.”

Every fine line and wrinkle has a story to tell. But when you’re not feeling as nostalgic, there are ways to smooth fine lines—without the need for injections. Enter wrinkle fillers and blurring products.

Wrinkle fillers are “products designed to fill in wrinkles, plumping the skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” says Marisa Garshick, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. She explains that they typically contain hyaluronic acid to help hydrate or peptides to help boost collagen production and smooth the appearance of wrinkles.

Blurring products, on the other hand, “are intended to provide more of a temporary effect by visibly improving the appearance of lines without addressing or treating the underlying cause,” Dr. Garshick explains. She says they work by filling in lines with silicone-based ingredients or polymers to smooth, or they use light-reflecting particles that diffuse light so it makes the lines appear less noticeable.

Our top picks:

Which is right for you? “Blurring products may be better for superficial fine lines while wrinkle filling skincare products may also be considered for deeper lines and folds,” Dr. Garshick says. Whichever approach you use, GH Beauty Lab Reviews Analyst Chiara Butler reminds us to have realistic expectations. “Some products do contain ingredients like retinoids and anti-aging peptides that can improve the appearance of fine lines with consistent use,” she says. However, “from what I saw in my small test, the improvement in the appearance of fines lines and wrinkles is not dramatic. I felt that the blurring products gave results that were more visible in photos.”

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How we test wrinkle fillers

To decide what to test, we tapped our beauty editor and searched online retailers to put together a list of 17 of the most popular wrinkle-filling products. We narrowed that list down to six products with a range of prices that we hadn’t evaluated in the Beauty Lab before.

Of the six wrinkle filler products chosen for in-person testing, three of the products were skincare-focused products that have both instant wrinkle plumping and long-term anti-aging claims, while the other three were blurring products with only instant wrinkle filling claims. The other three products included in the story were previously tested.

Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab – Hearst Owned

In the Beauty Lab, we blinded the products and assigned them codes to prevent brand bias. We invited 18 testers who are 35 and older to participate and indicate the areas of their face where they felt they had wrinkles: under the eyes, crow’s feet, around the mouth, or the forehead.

We asked them to remove makeup from the areas where they would be applying the wrinkle filler product. We then took digital “before” photos of the testers’ faces zoomed in to 3X followed by pictures in the Visia Skin analysis system. Afterwards, we gave testers a mirror and allowed them to apply as much product as they wanted to the areas they indicated. We set a timer for 10 minutes to allow the product to set in.

After 10 minutes, we took “after” digital photos and used the Visia system. The testers then responded to a survey about how they felt the product performed. A total of 54 Visia pictures were taken.

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What to look for when shopping for a wrinkle filler

Keep these factors in mind:

✔️ Product claims: “Look at the products claims to see whether it claims just instant smoothing and hydrating, instant blurring, or instant and long-term anti-aging benefits,” Butler says. “Consider whether you want a moisturizing/anti-aging product that will moisturize in the short-term and provide anti-aging benefits over time, or a blurring product with an immediate skin-perfecting effect that may not have skincare benefits.”

✔️ Usage: Think about where you will be using the product on your face, which can help determine whether a blurring or filling product is better. “Since blurring products tend to be thicker on the skin, they can be trickier in high-movement areas like the crow’s feet where product can settle in the lines, so I think plumping products are better for the crow’s feet while blurring products are great for flatter areas like the forehead,” Butler advises.

✔️ Ingredients: “When looking for a wrinkle filling product, it is important to look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which helps to draw moisture in and work to plump the skin,” Dr. Garshick says. “Some products may contain different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid, which may allow for different levels of penetration for best results.

Additionally, other ingredients to consider include peptides, which help to boost collagen production and retinol which helps to regulate skin cell turnover and works to boost collagen production, improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In the case of neuropeptides, the peptides block the release of chemicals that are responsible for muscle movement that leads to fine lines and wrinkles.”

Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab – Hearst Owned

What is the best way to apply wrinkle fillers and blurring products to maximize their effects?

Dr. Garshick says that wrinkle filling products should be used daily and consistently for maximum benefits. “The specific ingredients will determine if it’s better for morning or evening use,” she says.

As for application, Butler says: “For plumping or tightening products, apply them to clean dry skin, then wait for them to set and dry. Follow the directions on your product for the best results. For blurring products, tap, don’t rub, into fine lines, and gently smooth out the product as needed. Some of these products can be used as makeup primers or even on top of makeup.”

Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab – Hearst Owned

How long do the effects of wrinkle fillers last?

“The effects of these products typically last only a few hours, or until you wash them off,” Butler says. However, for skincare products that can bring benefits with continued use over time, the perks last longer.

“With consistent use and depending on the specific ingredients, the effects may continue to improve over the course of three to six months,” Dr. Garshick says.

Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab – Hearst Owned

How do wrinkle filling skincare and blurring products compare to in-office treatments?

“In general, wrinkle filling skincare and blurring products are not going to yield the same results as in-office treatments and the results may be more temporary,” Dr. Garshick says. “That said, some of the at-home products can complement in-office treatments with some products being used to help prolong the benefits of in-office treatments like filler, neuromodulators, and lasers.

More specifically, in-office dermal fillers can be a good way to truly fill in wrinkles and are an injectable form of hyaluronic acid, the same ingredient that may be found in topical at-home wrinkle fillers as well.”

Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab – Hearst Owned

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Celia Shatzman wrote this story. She has two decades of experience researching, writing, and editing skincare journalism. She also consulted Marisa Garshick, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York City.

GH Beauty Lab Reviews Analyst Chiara Butler has years of experience as a cosmetic chemist, formulating skincare products for a variety of brands. She conducts skincare category tests and provided an expert review of this article.

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Shea nut shells: A natural exfoliant for glowing skin

A natural exfoliant for glowing skin

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What’s the story

African shea nut shells have been used for centuries in skincare, thanks to their rich nutrient profile.
The shells, which are a byproduct of shea butter production, are loaded with vitamins and minerals that can promote healthy skin.
They offer a natural, eco-friendly alternative to synthetic skincare products.
Here’s how you can use them to improve your skincare routine.

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Can Sun Damaged Skin Be Repaired? Everything You Need to Know

Can Sun Damaged Skin Be Repaired? Everything You Need to Know

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Spending too much time under the sun without proper protection can gradually damage your skin. While a tan may fade, the effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays can remain for years, contributing to premature ageing, pigmentation and even increasing the risk of skin cancer.

The good news is that although not all sun damage can be reversed, many of its visible effects can be improved with the right skincare habits, healthy lifestyle choices and timely medical treatment when required.

How does the sun damage your skin?

Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) rays that penetrate the skin and damage its cells. Over time, repeated exposure breaks down collagen and elastin the proteins responsible for keeping the skin firm, smooth and youthful.

This can lead to:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Dark spots and uneven skin tone
  • Dry, rough skin
  • Loss of elasticity
  • Premature ageing
  • Increased risk of skin cancer

Experts estimate that prolonged UV exposure is responsible for a large proportion of visible skin ageing, making daily sun protection one of the most effective anti ageing measures.

Treat sunburn the right way

Sunburn is often the first sign that your skin has been exposed to too much UV radiation. By the time your skin becomes red and painful, some damage has already occurred.

Most importantly, prevent further damage by applying a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapplying it every two hours, especially if you are outdoors.

Say goodbye to dry, rough skin

Excessive sun exposure strips the skin of its natural moisture, leaving it dry, flaky and dull.

To restore softness:

  • Use a gentle exfoliator once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells.
  • Apply a nourishing moisturiser immediately after bathing.
  • Drink enough water throughout the day.
  • Include healthy fats, fruits and vegetables in your diet to support skin hydration from within.

Can wrinkles caused by the sun be reduced?

While wrinkles cannot disappear completely, several treatments can improve their appearance.

Dermatologists often recommend retinoid creams, which stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture over time. Antioxidants such as vitamin C also help protect the skin from further damage while reducing signs of ageing.

What about dark spots and pigmentation?

Sun exposure can trigger excess melanin production, leading to stubborn brown patches commonly known as sun spots or age spots.

Depending on the severity, treatment options include:

  • Skin brightening creams prescribed by a dermatologist
  • Retinoid based products
  • Chemical peels
  • Laser treatment
  • Cryotherapy for selected lesions

Daily sunscreen use is essential because without protection, these spots can return even after treatment.

Melasma needs extra care

Melasma appears as brown or grey patches, usually on the cheeks, forehead or upper lip. Although hormones can contribute to the condition, sunlight is one of its biggest triggers.

Managing melasma requires patience. Dermatologists may recommend prescription creams, professional treatments and strict sun protection. Wearing a wide hat and avoiding harsh midday sunlight can also help prevent flare ups.

Don’t ignore rough, scaly patches

Persistent rough patches that do not heal should never be ignored. These may indicate actinic keratosis, a condition caused by long term sun exposure that can sometimes develop into skin cancer.

If you notice any unusual skin changes, consult a dermatologist promptly. Early diagnosis allows treatment before complications develop.

Lifestyle habits that help repair your skin

Healthy skin is not just about skincare products. Your everyday habits play a major role in how well your skin repairs itself.

Get enough sleep

Your skin repairs itself while you sleep. Aim for seven to eight hours of quality sleep every night to support cell renewal and maintain healthy looking skin.

Eat skin friendly foods

A balanced diet rich in colourful fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes and oily fish provides antioxidants, vitamins and healthy fats that help protect the skin from damage.

Foods rich in vitamin C, beta carotene and lycopene, such as oranges, carrots, spinach and tomatoes, are particularly beneficial for skin health.

Stay physically active

Regular exercise improves blood circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to skin cells. Better circulation supports natural repair processes and contributes to a healthier complexion.

Manage stress

Long term stress can speed up skin ageing by increasing inflammation and reducing the skin’s ability to repair itself. Activities such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing or even a daily walk can help reduce stress levels.

Limit alcohol

Excessive alcohol can dehydrate the skin and contribute to premature ageing. If you drink, do so in moderation and make sure you stay well hydrated.

Protect your skin every day

Preventing further damage is just as important as treating existing problems.

Simple daily habits can make a big difference:

  • Apply broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen every morning.
  • Reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors.
  • Wear sunglasses, a wide brimmed hat and protective clothing.
  • Avoid prolonged sun exposure between 10 am and 4 pm.
  • Seek shade whenever possible.

When should you see a dermatologist?

While dryness and mild pigmentation can often improve with good skincare, you should seek medical advice if you notice:

  • A mole that changes in size, shape or colour
  • A sore that doesn’t heal
  • Persistent scaly patches
  • Bleeding or painful skin lesions
  • Rapidly changing pigmentation

Early evaluation can help detect skin conditions, including skin cancer, at a stage when treatment is most effective.

Sun damage develops gradually, but so does recovery. Although years of UV exposure cannot be erased completely, adopting healthy habits, protecting your skin every day and seeking professional treatment when necessary can significantly improve your skin’s appearance and reduce future damage.

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Charlotte Tilbury's anti-ageing Magic Cream reduced to £11

Charlotte Tilbury’s anti-ageing Magic Cream reduced to £11

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Charlotte Tilbury fans will likely already be familiar with the brand’s famous Magic Cream – the cult-favourite moisturiser that’s become a staple in countless skincare routines thanks to its rich, hydrating formula and glowing finish. And right now, beauty lovers can pick it up for the equivalent of £11 in a special limited-time deal.

Charlotte Tilbury’s Iconic Magic Mini Skin Set has been reduced from £48 to £33.60, saving shoppers £14.40. The travel-friendly kit includes three bestselling beauty essentials – Magic Cream, Magic Serum Crystal Elixir and a sculpting gua sha – meaning each item works out at approximately £11.20.

For anyone yet to discover the hype, Magic Cream is formulated with hydrating hyaluronic acid and peptides, which help leave skin feeling plumper and more moisturised. It also contains vitamins C and E, ingredients known to help brighten the complexion while providing antioxidant nourishment.

The Magic Serum Crystal Elixir is another bestseller from the range. Infused with peptides, vitamin C and niacinamide, the lightweight serum is designed to help skin appear smoother and more radiant while reducing the appearance of pores over time.

Completing the trio is a gua sha facial massage tool, which can be used alongside skincare to help encourage circulation, ease facial tension and temporarily create a more sculpted-looking complexion.

Beyond CT, another tempting travel-sized kit is Boots Spring Skincare Refresh Edit (£30, worth £75.20). This bundle features a blend of full-size favourites and must-have minis, including names like The Breakout Hack, BYOMA and RoC.

Otherwise, The Body Shop has some great discounts on its body care bundles. That includes the White Tea & Elderflower Essentials (£14.50, was £29), which includes a shower gel, hand cream and body butter.

Back to Charlotte Tilbury’s Iconic Magic Mini Skin Set; it’s had some great reviews from fans. This person shared: “First time using these products, but it won’t be the last! I brought the set for a long-haul flight, but thought I’d try it out beforehand, and I can’t stop using it. The tool is great, and I’m sure I’ve noticed a difference on my face.”

Meanwhile, a second shopper piped up: “Great little set to try and to take on a break. Product feels smooth, light and easy to use. I am 60, and my skin loves CT products, and the packaging looks so luxurious.”

However, as with all skincare products, it isn’t for everyone. This reviewer said: “I was really looking forward to trying this product, and it’s a great-sized gift set! Unfortunately, the Magic Cream made me break out, so I never tried the serum as I was worried this would break me out too.”

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Experts say this is the best skincare routine for your 50s

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Your 50s can bring about some of the most dramatic changes to your skin, largely thanks to the hormonal shifts that happen during and after menopause.

According to multi-award-winning aesthetic doctor Dr Ana Mansouri, founder of Dr Ana The Skin Clinic, many women notice that skin suddenly feels drier, thinner and less robust than before, while pigmentation, fine lines and loss of firmness also become more visible.

This happens as collagen and elastin production – the skin’s natural source of bounce and resilience – starts to decline more rapidly. “Broken sleep and insomnia are often symptoms of menopause, and this can have a significant impact because sleep is essential for skin repair,” she explains, adding that delicate areas such as the eyes, neck and décolletage often need more attention this decade, too.

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With the onslaught of hormonal fluctuations during menopause, you might feel there’s little you can do to improve matters. But despite these changes, it doesn’t mean it’s time to wave the white flag. Instead, it’s about understanding what your skin needs now and giving it the comfort, hydration and care it deserves.

The best skincare routine to follow in your 50s, according to experts

Rather than overloading skin with strong acids or too many active ingredients, Dr Mansouri recommends focusing on hydration, barrier support and consistent SPF application. She warns that “over-exfoliating can weaken the skin barrier, leaving it irritated, dehydrated and more sensitive,” adding that, just as in any other decade of our lives, sun damage remains one of the biggest contributors to collagen breakdown and pigmentation.


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You don’t need to spend a fortune or jump into a complicated routine, Dr Mansouri also insists. Instead, she advises tailoring your products to work with skin during and after menopause with ingredients such as ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acid, richer moisturisers and gentle retinal products.

Hydrating serums, targeted best eye creams and replenishing overnight treatments can also help support repair while we sleep, with Dr Mansouri adding that the biggest improvements often come from consistency and focusing on overall skin health rather than trying to “aggressively anti-age.”

Step 1: Cleanse and comfort

With skin often becoming more reactive and dehydrated during perimenopause and menopause, the focus should shift towards thorough yet gentle cleansing, rather than harsh products or over-exfoliating the skin barrier.

CeraVe

Hydrating Cleanser

RRP: £13

This creamy cleanser is a fab skincare staple thanks to its ability to deeply cleanse without leaving skin feeling tight or dry. Formulated with hyaluronic acid and three essential ceramides, it helps support the skin barrier and lock in moisture – ideal for menopausal skin that’s feeling more sensitive or depleted.

Gatineau

Collagene Expert Melting Cleansing Balm

RRP: £48

Who doesn’t love a balm? And this cleansing balm melts effortlessly into the skin to dissolve makeup, SPF and daily grime while leaving the complexion feeling soft, comforted and hydrated. Formulated with nourishing oils and collagen-supporting ingredients, including marine collagen and peptides.

Step 2: Deep hydration and barrier support

As natural oil production declines, skin often craves richer textures and moisture-replenishing ingredients to help restore comfort, bounce and resilience.

Vichy

Minéral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Serum

RRP: £28

This lightweight but hardworking serum combines hyaluronic acid with Vichy volcanic mineral water to drench skin with hydration and strengthen the skin barrier. Perfect for restoring freshness and suppleness when skin starts to feel less than its best.

L’Oreal Paris

Revitalift Filler [+Hyaluronic Acid] Serum

RRP: £32

A much-loved, affordable buy, this plumping serum uses concentrated hyaluronic acid to help smooth dehydration lines and leave skin looking fresher and juicier. It layers beautifully under moisturiser and works especially well on menopausal skin that’s lost some of its natural elasticity.

Dr.Jart+

Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturising Cream

RRP: £38

Hailed by some as a dry skin hero, this rich cream is packed with barrier-supporting ceramides and skin-softening panthenol. Its velvety texture feels wonderful and leaves skin replenished, soothed and noticeably more supple overnight.

Step 3: Tighten up and strengthen

As collagen decline accelerates, peptides and gentle vitamin A products are particularly helpful for maintaining firmness, texture and skin quality in your 50s.


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PAI

ROSEHIP BIOREGENERATE FACE OIL

RRP: £34

If you prefer a natural approach to skin renewal, this cult facial oil combines rosehip fruit and seed oils rich in antioxidant carotenoids and essential fatty acids to help improve radiance and softness, leaving skin feeling super nourished. We are also fans of Pai’s Retinoid 0.3% Skin Renewal Booster, which is a great next step for slowly introducing vitamin A into your routine.

Avène

Retrinal 0.1% Intensive Cream

RRP: £49

This gentle retinal treatment has all the complexion-boosting benefits of vitamin A without excessive irritation. Formulated with retinaldehyde and soothing Avène Thermal Spring Water, it helps improve pigmentation and fine lines while remaining kind to sensitive skin.

Step 4: Restore radiance and defend skin

Pigmentation and dullness often become more noticeable during menopause, so antioxidant protection and daily application of the best facial sunscreen are essential for helping skin look brighter, fresher and more even-toned.

Vichy

Liftactiv 16% Pure Vitamin C Brightening Serum

RRP: £39

Formulated with 15% pure vitamin C alongside antioxidant pycnogenol, this brightening serum helps soften uneven tone and leave skin looking more luminous and refreshed over time. Particularly good for dull or lacklustre complexions.

La Roche-Posay

La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+

RRP: £21

It goes without saying that wearing SPF every day, regardless of the weather, is non-negotiable. Just this step alone will help protect against pigmentation, collagen breakdown and premature ageing, and this lightweight formula offers high UVA and UVB protection without leaving skin feeling greasy or heavy, so it’s easy to wear every day under makeup.

Step 6: Extra helpers for delicate skin

The thinner skin around the eyes, neck and chest is often one of the first areas to show signs of menopause-related collagen decline, dryness and loss of elasticity, so in your 50s it’s worth investing in products designed specifically for these areas.

e.l.f.

SKIN Illuminating Eye Cream

RRP: £11

A brilliant budget-friendly eye cream, this lightweight formula helps hydrate and brighten the delicate under-eyes while softening the appearance of tiredness and dehydration lines. Infused with hyaluronic acid and peptides, it leaves the eye area looking fresher, smoother and more awake.

Boost Lab

Edelweiss Neck Firming Serum

RRP: £24.95

Reviewers say this neck serum feels far more luxurious than its price tag suggests, thanks to its silky, lightweight texture and instantly smoothing feel on the skin. Designed specifically for the neck and décolletage area, it combines antioxidant-rich Edelweiss extract with hydrating ingredients to help improve firmness and leave skin looking smoother and more refined with regular use.

No7

Future Renew Damage Reversal Serum

RRP: £35

One of the most talked-about skincare launches in recent years and for good reason. This peptide-led serum was developed to help support the skin’s natural repair process while tackling midlife concerns like lack of firmness, uneven texture and sun damage. As well as the face serum, the range also includes targeted products for the body and neck and décolletage. We think it’s a great mid-price option for science-backed skincare that won’t break the bank.

The expert’s no.1 in-clinic treatment for skin in its 50s

If she had to choose one approach for women in their 50s, Dr Ana Mansouri says she would opt for a combination of skin boosters and LPG Cellu M6 Infinity®. “Lymphatic drainage is so often overlooked, but it’s essential as a first step in improving overall skin quality,” she explains. Originally developed for physiotherapy, the LPG treatment uses precise cellular stimulation to support lymphatic drainage while also helping calm the nervous system, which can have knock-on benefits for the skin, too.

Dr Mansouri then combines this with regenerative injectable treatments such as Sculptra or polynucleotides, which help improve hydration, tissue repair and collagen stimulation for firmer, healthier and more radiant-looking skin. “The results are incredibly natural, which is something many women in this age group are looking for,” she says.

“Skin tends to look fresher, smoother and more rested without looking overdone.” She adds that they can work particularly well around delicate areas such as the eyes, where skin often becomes thinner and more crepey during menopause and beyond.

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Revitalising serums, soothing sleep masks and more

Revitalising serums, soothing sleep masks and more

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Be honest – will your skincare routine actually protect you from this week’s heatwave? If the answer is not a definitive yes, you’ve come to the right place.

Here’s what you probably don’t know about your skin during a heatwave. It needs a lot of moisture (and I mean a lot). The relentless heat that lingers well past sundown – exacerbated by the total lack of air conditioning in the UK – combined with UV exposure and humidity creates the perfect breeding grounds for dehydration. As dermatologist Dr. Sandra Lee explains “Dehydration makes your skin more vulnerable to damage – and it can make fine lines and dullness more noticeable, too.” The heat accelerates water loss, ramps up oil production and suddenly your skin barrier is struggling to replenish itself fast enough. 

Your moisturiser that was perfect last week? Suddenly too heavy. Your serum? No longer enough. And if you’re not reapplying sunscreen every two hours, well, keep reading. 

© Getty ImagesExecuting a flawless beauty look is rather testing during a heatwave

So then how do you protect your skin during a heatwave? It’s simple. The solution is knowing which products are actually built for this kind of weather and finding one that fits you. A serum that continues to drench your skin with moisture giving you that plump, dewy finish even as the heat becomes harder to bear. A refreshing mist to soothe and cool your skin when it’s feeling dry and tight. An overnight treatment that works hard while you rest after a long (hot) exhausting day. 

Below is a list of eight of our favourite skincare picks for surviving a heatwave. Lightweight and painstakingly hardworking, you are sure to find your new holy-grail product.

Skincare essentials for the heatwave:

  • Hyaluronic Acid Serum 30ml

    Inkey

    Perfect for all skin types, this lightweight multi-molecular hyaluronic acid serum is your go-to during a heatwave to replenish the water your skin loses.

  • B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum 50ml

    Drunk Elephant

    The blend of pro-vitamin B5, pineapple ceramide and watermelon rind creates the ultimate moisture replenishing serum. Its gel texture prepares for the most perfect base.

  • Resveratrol-Lift, Firming Eye Gel Cream

    Caudalíe

    Keep your under-eye area looking bright and fresh with this cooling gel-cream that targets puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines. Its lightweight texture makes it perfect for preventing migration into the eyes on very hot sweaty days. Keep it in the fridge for an extra cooling boost.

  • Thermal Spring Water Spray 50ml

    Avène

    The perfect little addition to your purse this week (and every week after) for an instant refresh. Avène’s mineral-rich thermal water helps to soothe flushed and irritated skin. Stay fresh on the go, all day long.

  • Birch Juice Moisturising Toner

    Round Lab

    If your moisturiser feels too heavy the moment the temperature rises, Round Lab’s birch juice toner is your new best friend. Lightweight but deeply hydrating, leaving you with that perfect dewy finish.

  • Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence – 100ml

    COSRX

    The best-kept secret in K-beauty. Snail mucin is highly effective in hydrating, soothing and repairing the skin, alongside its anti-ageing properties. The COSRX power essence pulls moisture back into your skin after a long day’s battle against the sun. 

  • Cicapair Tiger Grass Cream 50ml

    Dr. Jart+

    Post-sun treatment is just as important as pre-sun prep and this Dr. Jart+ intensive repair cream is the only right answer. Packed with centella asiatica, the secret ingredient to calming, repairing, and regenerating your heat-stressed skin overnight.

  • Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask 60ml

    Glow Recipe

    The final overnight step to your evening routine. The combination of watermelon extract, hyaluronic acid, and AHAs, work together to deeply hydrate and exfoliate your skin without causing irritations, even on sensitive skin.

HELLO!’s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.

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