Stocking fillers

Christmas Eve, £13

Make Christmas Eve extra magical with this festive duo. The Star of Wonder bath bomb spins, crackles, and fizzes in the water, releasing sweet popcorn scents, popping candy, and dazzling swirls of colour. Paired with the Sleepy bubble bar, infused with calming lavender, tonka, and ylang-ylang oils, it’s perfect for a cosy, pre-Christmas night of rest.

It’s Christmas Deer Knot Wrap, £7

Wrap up your gifts sustainably with this cheerful festive design. The reusable Knot Wrap adds a pop of colour under the tree and can be enjoyed again and again — a gift in itself.

Christmas Wishes, £16.50

Celebrate the the season with this festive set, featuring these two skin saviours. In a gorgeous floral design perfect for any bathroom sink, the Wreath Soap infuses pine and poinsettia with a soothing blend of geranium, oakmoss, and galbanum to gently cleanse and refresh the skin. Beautifully complementing it, the Dream Cream Body Lotion combines oat, chamomile, rose, and olive to calm, moisturise, and protect sensitive skin, making this duo the ultimate indulgence for a cosy, festive pampering session.

Affordable luxuries

Bon Bon Gift Set, £36

Featuring five gourmand bath bombs, you’d be forgiven for thinking these sweet delights were good enough to eat. Dates, popcorn, honey, caramel and vanilla make up the five decadent scents from Lush’s 30th birthday collection – with each designed to leave skin soft, smooth and beautifully scented. Self-care with a delicious twist.

Snow Fairy Body Spray, £33

Three Snow Fairy must-haves come together in this gorgeous set, letting you layer up the scent we all can’t get enough of at this time of year. Start with the sweet shower gel, follow with the body lotion for a comforting blend of candyfloss and marshmallow, and finish with a spritz of body spray to wrap yourself in sugary magic from head to toe. 

Splurge-worthy showstoppers

The Art of Christmas Bathing, £99

This dazzling collection of limited-edition Christmas goodies is a joyous celebration of colour, scent and sparkle – perfect for enjoying long after the festive season. With 15 bath bombs and bubble bars packed inside, there’s something to suit everyone.

Standout favourites include the Christmas Eve bubble bar, a revamp of a 2009 fan-favourite that fills the bath with jasmine-scented bubbles and The Girl in the Whirlwind bath bomb, inspired by a Bulgarian folktale, which swirls rich vanilla and shimmering sea salt into a heart-warming soak. Packaged in a gorgeous reusable box, it’s the ultimate festive indulgence — a gift to treasure or a treat to pamper yourself this Christmas.

Alexandra Davis

Tucked away in the heart of London’s West End, Brooks & Brooks blends high-fashion credentials with a truly personalised experience. Having scooped multiple industry awards – including “Individual Salon of the Year” – it’s a destination for those who value artistry and care in equal measure. The team are veterans of international fashion weeks, yet their down-to-earth approach makes every appointment feel relaxed and indulgent.

So whether you’re preparing for a glittering night out, an elegant winter wedding, or simply looking to revive your everyday look, Brooks & Brooks is the place to start.

This season’s colour palette is all about subtle sophistication: think deep, light-catching brunettes and champagne hues that illuminate winter skin tones. Each shade is carefully crafted to complement your complexion and lifestyle, with the salon’s skilled colourists, led by Artistic Director Marlon Hawkins, renowned for their bespoke, detail-oriented approach.

When it comes to the perfect cut, precision is the philosophy. Their stylists excel in haircuts that feel modern yet effortlessly wearable, ensuring your hair looks beautiful from the salon to the street. And for the finishing touch? Their signature blows will leave your hair full of volume, shine and movement that holds up even after a night on the dance floor.

Every appointment begins with a thoughtful consultation, where the team take time to understand your vision, personality and upcoming plans. Whether you’re inspired by red-carpet glamour or understated sophistication, the team will help you translate that into something that feels authentically “you”.

With its stylish yet welcoming atmosphere, Brooks & Brooks offers more than just a haircut or colour. It’s an experience — one that leaves you feeling refreshed, confident and ready to celebrate. 

Alexandra Davis

To book an appointment at Brooks & Brooks, visit their website.

Thérapie Clinic, one of the UK and Ireland’s leading aesthetic chains, has built a reputation for its advanced laser technology and accessible prices. But how effective is the treatment, and what can clients really expect? We visited the Belgravia branch to find out if it lives up to the hype.

Just a short walk from Victoria station, the newly renovated clinic is light, airy and spotless. Staff greet you warmly on arrival, immediately setting a reassuring tone. Thérapie uses the medical-grade Cynosure Elite+ laser to treat specific areas or even the full body, typically recommending a course of six to ten sessions for best results.

Around 48 hours before our appointment, we received an email containing pre-treatment forms and preparation advice, including shaving the area 24 hours beforehand and avoiding sunbeds or fake tan.

On the day, we had a consultation with a therapist who clearly explained the process before, during and after treatment. She answered all our questions confidently and put us completely at ease. In fact, every staff member we encountered was knowledgeable, approachable and professional.

During the treatment, a laser is used to target unwanted hair. The light is absorbed by the pigment in each strand beneath the skin and converted to heat, damaging the follicles and reducing future growth. Cold air is emitted throughout to soothe the skin and ease any discomfort.

For the most part, the treatment was painless, though we did feel a hot, pinching sensation in more sensitive areas. Sessions are quick, and we experienced no irritation afterwards.

One of the biggest advantages to using laser is the speed at which it can be carried out. While this varies depending on the area being treated, appointments can take as little as five minutes for the upper lip and 20 minutes for the full legs, making it an ideal option for those short on time.

A break of around four to six weeks is required between each session to allow hair to move from its dormant phase into active growth.

One thing to keep in mind: clinics can often be booked up well in advance. Across our six sessions, a few appointments were delayed due to therapist availability, which may have affected our overall results. If possible, book the full course upfront to stay consistent.

Nevertheless, hair growth was noticeably reduced, regrowth was finer and sparser, and ingrown hairs were completely eradicated. It’s worth noting that this laser is most effective on medium to dark hair and is not suitable for blonde, light brown, or red hair.

The number of sessions needed varies depending on the treatment area, hair type and other factors, such as medications, hormones (including PCOS) and stress. Most clients require six to ten treatments to achieve optimal results, with maintenance sessions (around three per year) recommended thereafter.

While laser hair removal can significantly delay or reduce hair growth, it’s not always a completely permanent solution – unless the follicle is destroyed. Still, it offers long-term smoothness that far outlasts waxing or shaving.

Rebekah Absalom

For more information on Thérapie Clinic, visit their website here.

Glow-boosting skincare

Skin Hero Glow, £38, Erborian 

This skincare-makeup hybrid from Erborian instantly smooths and perfects while enhancing your skin’s natural radiance. The glow-giving formula blurs imperfections and boosts luminosity, making it ideal for days when you want fresh, healthy-looking skin with minimal effort. Pair with their best-selling BB Cream to unify your complexion and visibly refine tone and texture.

ReDimension HydraDew Luminizer, £42, RMS Beauty

Expect a healthy glow with just one sweep thanks to this gel-to-powder highlighter from RMS Beauty. Its lightweight, bouncy texture melts effortlessly into the skin, leaving a luminous, multi-dimensional finish that feels as good as it looks. And for an added pop of colour? Don’t forget to try one of their blushes in the same silky formula. Sangria and Pomegranate Fizz are vibrant, juicy hues that make ideal summer companions for a fresh, sun-kissed flush.

Bronze Colour Infusion, £34, Laura Mercier

Bring instant warmth and radiance to your complexion with Laura Mercier’s bronzing duo. Infused with finely-milled pigment powders, it blends seamlessly to leave behind a smooth, blurred finish that feels lightweight and breathable for up to 12 hours. Choose from five different colour combinations to find the perfect sculpt and glow shade for you.

Heavenly summer scents

Ambre Vanille Honey Bath, £47, Laura Mercier

Laura Mercier’s fan-favourite Honey Bath has been reimagined with an even more indulgent formula to transform your tub into a spa-like escape. The decadent bubbles cleanse, soften, and condition while skin-loving ingredients like sea water, red algae, and borage seed oil help lock in hydration and leave skin silky and supple.

Available in two beautiful scents – the warm, sensual Ambre Vanille and the comforting Almond Coconut – each version brings a moment of luxury to your self-care ritual. For a truly indulgent experience, pair your chosen Honey Bath with the brand’s matching body serums, leaving skin not only nourished but delicately perfumed all day long.

Limited Edition Cheirosa Hair & Body Perfume Mist Discovery Set, £38, Sol de Janeiro

This limited-edition quartet of Sol de Janeiro favourites is a tropical treat. Featuring four mini versions of their bestselling body mists, it’s perfect for travel or trying out new scents before committing to a full size. Each mist blends floral, fruity, and gourmand notes, designed to transport your senses to Brazil’s sun-drenched shores. These multi-tasking mists double as body sprays and hair perfumes, making them ideal for fragrance layering and on-the-go refreshes.

Butta Drop Guava Getaway Whipped Oil Body Cream, £32, Fenty Skin

Rich, hydrating, and deliciously scented, this whipped body cream is infused with tropical guava notes that feel instantly summery. The velvety texture melts into skin, leaving it deeply nourished and glowing. A must-have for your summer bodycare routine.

Super Fairy Shower Gel, from £8.50, Lush

Try out one of Lush’s most exciting new releases with their brand new Super Fairy collection that combines two of their bestsellers, the citrusy Super Milk and the sweet candyfloss-scented Snow Fairy. The hydrating shower gel is formulated with skin-loving oat, coconut, and almond milks, plus a splash of fresh lemon juice for a brightening, moisturising boost. There’s also a magnesium-rich bath bomb and softening body lotion to complete the line up, too. Summer self-care at its most magical. 

Blueberry and Wild Strawberry Body Care Gift Set, £74, Molton Brown

A luxurious trio designed for indulgence, this set combines juicy blueberry with the sweetness of wild strawberry for a scent that’s both uplifting and comforting. Featuring a bath and shower gel, body lotion and mini perfume, this set is a great way to elevate your daily routine or spoil someone special.

Smart sun protection

Hyperpigmentation Defence SPF50+, £29, P20

Daily sun protection is non-negotiable, and this clever SPF does more than just shield. Formulated to defend against both UVA and UVB rays, it also actively targets hyperpigmentation and dark spots, making it a smart choice for those concerned with uneven skin tone. Lightweight, non-greasy, and fragrance-free, it layers seamlessly under makeup or works perfectly worn alone, even on sensitive skin.

Haircare heroes

Supershine Discovery Set, £45, Oribe

Packed with Oribe’s bestselling formulas in travel sizes, this chic set is the secret to sleek, frizz-free hair all summer long. The nourishing products hydrate, smooth and add shine, ensuring your hair stays healthy and glossy no matter the weather.

Honey Gloss Ceramide Therapy Hair Mask, £39, Gisou

Gisou’s deeply restorative hair mask has become a viral sensation for a reason. Powered by honey and ceramides to repair, strengthen, and boost shine, it nourishes hair from root to tip, leaving it glossy, smooth, and resilient — an essential for post-sun or post-swim recovery.

Finishing touches

The Definer and Highlight Duo Pencil, £24, Brow Aid

This clever dual-ended pencil from Brow Aid shapes, defines, and brightens brows in one easy step. Use the definer to sculpt arches and the highlight to lift the brow bone or inner corner — instant polish with minimal effort.

Nourishing Lip Oil, £20, bareMinerals

In seven stunning shades, this is a summer lip essential that hydrates and conditions while delivering a sheer, glossy tint. Formulated with a blend of nine botanical oils and hyaluronic acid, it instantly smooths and conditions to support the lips’ natural moisture barrier. Lightweight and non-sticky, it’s great for everyday wear and reapplication on the go. 

Legendary Serum Lipstick, £35, RMS Beauty

Part lipstick, part treatment, this serum-infused formula delivers rich, buildable colour while nourishing lips with organic bitter cherry water, adaptogenic herbs, and antioxidant-packed Kakadu plum extract. The lightweight, satin finish feels as hydrating as a balm yet wears like a long-lasting lipstick. Already available in eight shades, RMS has now expanded the range with five new nudes – perfect for effortless summer wear. More than just makeup, this luxurious hybrid leaves lips soft, supple, and gorgeously smooth.

Alexandra Davis

Originally from Cavalese in the Italian Alps, Natalie’s journey into aesthetics has taken her across the world. After working alongside practitioners and trainers internationally, she returned to the UK in 2018 to begin formal training with the Cosmetic Treatments and Injectables Association (CTIA). There, she mastered the foundations of dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle injections, before expanding her knowledge with skin boosters, microneedling, polynucleotides, and ultrasound-guided injections. Currently pursuing her Level 7 diploma, Natalie has built her practice on continuous learning and clinical precision.

With a science-meets-artistry approach and a strong belief in enhancing rather than altering, Natalie has cultivated a loyal and growing client base with more than 30,000 followers on Instagram alone. What began as a side project in a rented room has since evolved into a full-time career and, as of April this year, a fully-fledged clinic in the heart of London. 

Her trademark technique, Italian Lips by Natalie Faccini, has become something of a calling card. Developed in response to the one-size-fits-all training she encountered early in her career, it focuses on creating well-balanced lips precisely tailored to the individual’s face.

The technique deliberately avoids the overfilled, exaggerated look and instead embraces structure, artistry, and restraint. In June, the clinic launched an online training portal for the method, designed to give fellow practitioners access to Natalie’s innovative approach and philosophy.

This commitment to elevating industry standards has earned her increasing recognition. In January 2025, she was selected as a judge for the UK Aesthetics Championship – the first live competition of its kind where practitioners from around the world demonstrate their skills in real-time.

With expansion on the horizon, Good Genetics Aesthetics is preparing for its next chapter, with plans to grow the team to four practitioners all united by the same core philosophy – to enhance, not alter. But even as the clinic evolves, it remains firmly grounded in its belief that the most effective aesthetic work simply allows you to look and feel like the very best version of yourself.

Alexandra Davis

For further information or to book a consultation with Natalie, visit the website.

Skinstorm Facial, The Clinic Holland Park

When it comes to next-level skincare, the Skinstorm Facial at The Clinic Holland Park is an elite treatment that delivers visible, lasting results. Designed by Crystal Clear Skincare, this high-tech facial is at the forefront of skincare innovation, combining the latest in technological advancements to offer your skin a total reset. 

As we age, our skin’s ability to absorb oxygen from the environment declines, impacting its natural repair process. The Skinstorm system tackles this head-on with a multi-dimensional approach that uses six steps to deeply energise and rejuvenate the skin. By infusing topical dissolvable oxygen alongside icy vortex cleansing, precision micro-needling, and targeted light therapy, it works to combat dullness, reduce pigmentation, and smooth fine lines.

The result? A luminous, clarified complexion that looks like it’s been filtered in real life. It’s ideal before a big event or simply to reset your skin ahead of the summer months. Bonus: the calming ambience of The Clinic makes the entire experience feel like a mini spa retreat.

LVL Lash Lift, The London Lash Studio

Swap heavy mascara and fiddly lash extensions for something natural with the LVL Lash Lift this summer. Designed to effortlessly enhance your natural lashes, this treatment lifts, volumises, tints and nourishes in one session – leaving you with a wide-eyed, fluttery finish that lasts for up to 8 weeks. 

As one of London’s leading lash studios, you’ll be in safe hands at the London Lash Studio with their friendly and experienced team of lash experts. The process begins with the application of a specially sized shield on the eyelid, onto which the lashes are gently bonded. A lifting balm is then applied to reshape the lashes from the root, followed by a volumising fix that locks them into their new curve. Next comes a rich tint to deepen the colour and enhance definition, before finishing with a hydrating serum that eases the lashes off the shield and conditions them to perfection. The result? Long, lifted, glossy lashes that open up the eyes and give your summer beauty routine an effortless boost – no smudges, no fuss. Tip: If you usually wear glasses, consider switching things up and buy contact lenses to make the most of your lash lift – it’s a simple change that really lets your eyes shine.

Hair Refresh, Headmasters Mayfair

Sun, saltwater, and heat can all take a toll on the health of your hair, but luckily Headmasters Mayfair in the heart of London’s West End is on hand to bring it back to life. Known for their expert colourists and innovative treatments, this salon is your go-to for a total seasonal reset. 

Whether you’re craving soft, face-framing highlights, a glossy blow-dry, or an intensive treatment to restore hydration, their team customises each appointment to suit your hair’s needs and your own personal style. Their glossing treatments, in particular, are perfect for bringing dull, post-winter hair back to life – expect bounce, shine, and serious envy-inducing locks after just one treatment. You’ll find a curated lineup of cutting-edge haircare heroes, like the newest Kérastase Gloss Absolu range, complete with their Hydra-Glaze shampoo and Insta Glaze Fondant conditioner – perfect for pairing with the Absolu Anti-Frizz Glaze Milk for ultra-smooth results.

Guiding the creative direction of the brand is Headmasters’ Creative Ambassador, Edd Moss, who not only works from the Mayfair salon but also leads the artistry across more than 50 salons nationwide. One of the most unique features of the salon is their bespoke styling menu, curated by Edd and his team after drawing inspiration from the latest catwalk trends. So, whether it’s a voluminous red-carpet blowout, tousled mermaid waves or a sleek and sophisticated style, you’ll find something to suit every style and occasion. All in all, this is high-end haircare made effortlessly chic. 

Cool Girl Nails and Cocktails, Iris Avenue

If you’re after a beauty experience that is more than a little indulgent, Iris Avenue’s Cool Girls Nails and Cocktails Experience is a must-try. Nestled in the heart of Fitzrovia, Iris Avenue offers a stylish social setting where you can sip on expertly made cocktails while enjoying a luxe gel manicure, topped off with a selection of chic nail art. With four different nail art levels to choose from, you can keep things simple and chic with Tier 1’s minimal designs like French tips, chrome finishes and delicate accents – or you can opt for all out glamour with a Tier 3000 completely custom, avant-garde one-of-a-kind creation.

With an ever-changing seasonal bar menu, you’ll find everything from green goddess smoothies to passion fruit martinis, and a selection of small bites if you’re feeling peckish, too.

Whether you’re treating yourself to some solo downtime or turning your mani into a catch-up with friends, the combination of flawless nails and handcrafted cocktails delivers the perfect beauty-meets-social experience. Think chic designs, standout shades, and a laid-back dose of fun.

Alexandra Davis

Plumping Collagen Lip Oil in Cherry, £29

A must-have for every handbag, this juicy lip oil combines the nourishment of botanical oils with the intense shine of a gloss. Infused with macadamia oil, jojoba oil and cherry oil, it delivers a plumping effect while keeping lips soft, smooth and hydrated. Available in four shades, the gloss adds a gorgeous flush of colour, perfect for a low-maintenance spring beauty look.

Soft Focus Glow Booster Drops, £75

For a lit-from-within glow, this serum is the shortcut to a brighter and more radiant complexion. Part skincare and part makeup hybrid, these glow drops blur imperfections and create a dewy, soft-focus finish under makeup or when worn alone on bare skin. 

Dragon’s Blood Water Serum, £130

For intense, long-lasting hydration, this serum is a skincare saviour. Lightweight yet powerful, Crodarom Dragon’s Blood, Rubixyl®, Ectoin and Hyacare Tremella work seamlessly to soothe, repair and plump the skin. Ideal for reviving dehydrated and stressed skin post-winter, just in time for the warmer weather.

Vit C Face Soufflé, £85

Vitamin C is the ultimate glow-giver, and this luxurious soufflé-textured cream delivers it in style. Rich yet non-greasy, it helps to brighten dull skin, fade dark spots and promote a smoother, more even skin tone. It’s the perfect day cream to revive your skin and restore its natural vibrancy.

Glass Tint Tinted Moisturiser, £45

Forget full-coverage foundations, this season is all about sheer, luminous skin. Rodial’s Glass Tint Tinted Moisturiser offers enough coverage to even out your complexion while letting your natural glow shine through. With skin-boosting ingredients and a weightless texture, it’s your go-to for a fresh, healthy look.

Bee Venom Hydrogel Face Mask, £20

For an indulgent at-home treatment, this gold jelly mask is a must. Infused with ethically sourced bee venom melittin peptides, it works to plump and smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The mask also contains a trio of hyaluronic acids to deeply hydrate and lock in moisture, leaving your skin visibly lifted, firmer, and glowing.

Alexandra Davis

For the bath

Nothing says Easter quite like this Easter Bunny bath bomb, which comes packed full of fruity grapefruit, Sicilian lemon oil, bergamot and sweet vanilla – making this a real treat for the senses. Plus, you’ll find a surprise shower gummy carrot inside to wash with once your bath bomb has fizzed away.

For anyone who wants to make the most out of their bath time soaks, a bubble bar is a great choice, and with this beautifully designed Fab Egg Bubbleroon, it’s more than just a pretty addition to your bathroom cabinet. Enriched with moisturising fair trade organic cocoa butter and refreshing orange, lime and clove bud oils, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to your favourite childhood sweet shop.

Bringing the fun to this collection is the playful Eggs on Legs bath bomb. In three separate parts, you can enjoy the legs and cup first before saving the egg for another bath. If you’re a fan of their iconic berry bubble bar, The Comforter, then this will be right up your street, too. In this new addition, you’ll find the familiar blackcurrant scent paired with marshmallow root powder to leave your skin feeling soft and nourished.

Other standouts include Surprise Bunny and Run Rabbit Race bath bombs, as well as the Baby Rainbow Carrot bubble bars, available in seven fun colours for you to create your own vibrant colour blends in the bath. 

For the shower

If baths aren’t your thing, Lush’s Easter collection still has plenty to offer, Limited-edition shower gels like Wash Behind Your Ears will transport you to the first blooms of spring thanks to an uplifting blend of jasmine absolute, neroli and rose oils.

Soaps come in adorable shapes and sizes too, like the spicy gingerbread-infused Nice Buns Hun, meanwhile the playful Rock Star Rabbit sees the fan-favourite Rockstar soap get a new lease of life, while still enjoying the same pink candy and vanilla scent.

For a loved one 

For a gorgeous yet affordable gift, Hey Bun features a duo of charming bath bombs. The fresh and fruity jelly-bean scented Cheep Cheep and the refreshing bergamot and blackcurrant Follow The White Rabbit are both infused with popping candy for a fun twist to liven up your bath time routine. 

If you’re in the mood to splurge, the Happy Egg gift set contains five bestselling delights housed in a beautifully crafted reusable egg by Shruti of Artbox London. Inside, you’ll discover old favourites like the shimmering toffee and caramel infused Golden Egg shower gel, alongside the sweet, apple crumble-scented Easter Turtle shower jelly. Completing the set are the Surprise Bunny bath bomb, Baby Rainbow Carrot bubble bar and Nice Buns Hun soap. It’s a delightful way to indulge in a little self-care this Easter.

Alexandra Davis

White Rose & Lemon Leaves, £82 for 50ml, Jo Loves

For a celebration of British heritage, White Rose & Lemon Leaves from Jo Loves is a refined and uplifting choice. Taking inspiration from the gorgeous Norma Jean White Rose that’s become renowned as a symbol of resilience, this is a modern take on a timeless floral fragrance. 

Opening with the invigorating zest of lemon peel cologne, expect a burst of freshness that seamlessly blends into the velvety richness of rose oil and the warmth of white honey. Delicate strands of peppered citrus and cedarwood add a subtle freshness, allowing the aroma to bloom beautifully as it settles on the skin. Perfect for mothers who love fresh florals with a contemporary twist, this is a fragrant masterpiece that’s ideal for spring and summer.

For something extra special, why not create a luxurious gift set with some more Jo Loves goodies from the White Rose & Lemon Leaves collection. The bath and shower gel and body crème set ensure a real pampering experience that will leave her skin beautifully scented and nourished. Plus, the matching candle will fill her home with the same elegant floral aroma, ensuring her surroundings smell just as divine as she does. 

Sirène Eau de Parfum, £255 for 75ml, Fragrance du Bois

Founded in 2011, Fragrance Du Bois is an exclusive perfume house renowned for its mastery of oud fragrances and its commitment to using only 100% pure, sustainable and high-quality natural oils and extracts. With a dedicated global following, the brand continues to find influence from around the world, from the lavish traditions of France to the ancient heritage of Arabia.

As its first-ever female-inspired perfume, Sirène is a sensual and alluring scent, effortlessly creating mystery and intrigue with just one spritz. It opens with a bold burst of juicy cherry and sharp black pepper, before smoky incense and their signature oud unfolds to add warmth and depth. As it settles, earthy moss, resinous benzoin and labdanum leave a lasting impression of sophistication. This unique composition plays heavily with contrasts to create a complex, layered blend that is both luxurious and distinctive.

Housed in the brand’s signature velvet box, the exquisite flacon and stopper are adorned with pink Swarovski crystals to match the soft pink exterior, making this a true collector’s piece. If you’re looking to splurge on something that exudes glamour, mystery, and individuality, then this high-end creation is the one for you .

Retrospect L’Extrait de Parfum, £79 for 30ml, MERIT

Retrospect marks minimalist makeup brand Merit’s debut into the world of fragrance, and it certainly does not disappoint. Influenced by the timelessness of iconic perfumery of decades past, this is a great present for mums who appreciate nostalgia with a modern twist. 

Their nod to the past shines through with their decision to create an extrait de parfum, rather than an eau de parfum which typically contains less perfume oil. With nearly 30% fragrance oil in their blend, you can expect it to seamlessly melt into the skin and last for over 12 hours. Classic notes rarely used today, like vibrant aldehydes and rich, fruity orris concrete, are layered with fresh, contemporary scents like pear, vanilla and musk to create an essence that evolves throughout the day. 

The chic glass bottle has been crafted to sit comfortably in the palm of your hand, while paying homage to the power of scent as a timeless accessory. Overall, this is a comforting yet feminine aroma that dries down to a sensual and smooth vanilla musk. So, if your mum enjoys fragrances with depth and character, this is a thoughtful pick.

KAYALI Yum Boujee Marshmallow 81 Eau de Parfum Intense, £79 for 50ml, Huda Beauty

Inspired by the the brand’s founder Mona Kattan’s Middle Eastern heritage, Huda Beauty’s sister brand, KAYALI, continues to expand its ever-growing perfume collection with the sweet and playful Yum Boujee Marshmallow.

Just like a tempting dessert, this gourmand fragrance unveils a delicate blend of fluffy marshmallow, juicy strawberry and creamy coconut, effortlessly paired with soft vanilla, freesia, pink lady apple, nectarine blossom and sharp Italian lemon for added depth. It’s a stunning feast for the senses, and a wonderful option for mums who adore anything sweet. 

Drawing influence from Middle Eastern oud bottles with its signature diamond-shaped bottle design and opulent jewelled cap, it’s available in a variety of sizes, with each making a charming addition to your mum’s beauty stand. Plus, if you weren’t sure of the brand’s commitment to getting it right, the number 81 imprinted on the bottle represents the number of rounds of formulations it took to perfect. It’s so good, it’s almost good enough to eat! 

Alexandra Davis

Since its launch in 2018, one brand at the heart of this movement is sensorial Korean skincare line, Then I Met You. Inspired by the Korean concept of jeong – a deep emotional connection that forms over time – the brand offers a unique take on beauty, encouraging a more mindful and thoughtful approach to skincare that not only produces visible results, but emphasises the joy of the ritual itself. 

To learn more about the world of Korean skincare, we spoke with beauty expert, aesthetician and the brand’s founder, Charlotte Cho, who shared the brand’s skincare staples and the groundbreaking innovations that have turned K-beauty into a global phenomenon. 

“Korean skincare is driven by innovation, but at its core, it’s about prevention, hydration and gentle care. K-beauty has helped redefine skincare as self-care rather than just a problem-solving step, whilst showing that consistency and gentle care yield better long-term results than aggressive treatments,” Cho explains.

“Consumers are shifting away from harsh chemicals and looking for solutions that strengthen their skin barrier over time. As a result, we’re seeing more Western brands adopt K-beauty’s layering approach and focus on hydration, which is a big shift from the days of over-exfoliating and stripping the skin.”

With heritage ingredients like fermented rice, ginseng and persimmon, Then I Met You is changing the way we nurture our skin, with its ethos grounded in the belief that skincare should be more than a routine, but a meaningful practice of self-care.

Cho adds, “Skincare isn’t just about results, it’s about the experience. Then I Met You is all about the importance of deep connections – both with yourself and your skincare rituals. I wanted to create a line of effective products that make people excited to spend that extra moment with themselves.”

When it comes to creating a routine that works, Korean skincare emphasises prioritises barrier-first formulas and skin-nurturing ingredients. Charlotte says, “Instead of one powerhouse ingredient at high concentrations, K-beauty focuses on synergistic blends that work gently and effectively over time. Layering allows your skin to absorb hydration and lock it in, without anything too greasy or pore clogging. A well-layered routine results in that signature plump, dewy glow that Korean skincare is known for.”

Living Cleansing Balm, £38

As for the unmissable brand’s products, every formula has been designed to deliver both immediate glow and long-term skin benefits. Cho recommends their award-winning cleanser as the best place to start, “It’s the first step in double cleansing and melts away makeup effortlessly while nourishing the skin. It contains sea buckthorn oil, which is packed with omega fatty acids and vitamin C for nourishment and radiance.”

Enriched with seaberry, grapeseed and olive oil, the balm’s sorbet-soft texture transforms into a sumptuous oil cleanser to leave skin feeling clean and refreshed. After a long day, you’ll find yourself eagerly counting down until you can kickstart your evening skincare with this cleanser.

The Giving Essence, £51

Key to the brand’s effectiveness is the careful selection of soothing Korean ingredients combined with potent actives, like in this antioxidant essence. Cho explains, “The Giving Essence is powered by 78% fermented ingredients like sake and galactomyces to deeply hydrate, as well as 5% niacinamide for that glowy, fortified skin barrier.”

With a brightening blend of antioxidants, the optimal concentration of niacinamide, and ellagic acid which is derived from berries to naturally brighten the skin without impacting cell DNA, it’s expertly formulated to unveil a luminous complexion. 

Bong² Bounce Cream, £46

Cho says, “This is a fan favourite. It’s a lightweight yet intensely hydrating gel barrier cream that leaves skin feeling plump, bouncy and dewy with natural vitamin C infused in every drop.” 

With hallabong fruit to boost elasticity, ceramides to fortify the skin’s barrier and squalane to supplement natural moisture content, this lightweight cream isn’t thick or heavy, making it the perfect everyday moisturiser for those with oily, combination or blemish prone skin.

Renewing Rich Beauty Cream, £57

Ideal for sensitive, dry and mature skin, this rich daily moisturiser is great for skin that needs intense nourishment. Created with Quad Ginseng Complex that has been steamed and dried nine times to maximise its potency, this silky cream delivers free-radical fighting antioxidants to reinforce the skin’s barrier and give you a plump, dewy glow. 

Honey Dew Lip Mask, £22

Inspired by Charlotte’s cherished childhood memories of her grandmother preparing juicy slices of honeydew melon after dinner, this versatile lip treatment works as a nourishing daily balm or an intensive overnight mask. Thanks to antioxidant-rich honeydew, moisturising squalane and soothing honey, your lips will be left softer than ever.

Looking ahead, Cho sees Korean skincare continuing to push boundaries while embracing sustainability. “Gen Z is favouring reusable, eco-conscious products like sustainable wash-off masks and toner pads,” she notes. “And of course, fermented ingredients look set to be a huge focus for maintaining a strong, healthy skin barrier.”

Beyond trends, K-beauty’s influence remains undeniable, making advanced ingredients and carefully crafted formulations more accessible than ever.

Alexandra Davis