Tag: Beauty

7 Luxury Soaps That Deserve a Spot on Your Bathroom Counter

There are two types of bathrooms: the ones that quietly get the job done, and the ones that whisper “yes, I live here and I have taste.” Guess which one we’re aiming for? Luxury soaps are more than just hand-wash essentials—they’re like tiny, scented sculptures that turn a boring sink into a mood board. A chic soap says: I care about the details, I’ve thought about my hand wash experience, and yes, even my guests deserve a little pampering. From Italian pharmacy classics to Japanese skincare science and Parisian staples, here are seven luxury soaps that will make your bathroom counter look (and smell) like it belongs in a glossy interiors magazine. Santa Maria Novella Rose Liquid Soap Straight out of Florence, this rose-scented number feels like a love letter to your skin. Calendula extract soothes, the soft floral scent lingers, and the packaging whispers “refinement” without shouting. Edobio Masu Soap Tokyo’s gift to your bathroom. A cube of alkaline soap that works for face and body, packed with cherry leaf and green tea extracts. Basically, centuries-old Japanese rituals meet skincare biotech wizardry. Frederic Malle Hand Wash If chic minimalism had a scent, this would be it. Magnolia notes, a delicate cleanse, and packaging that’s quietly confident. Ideal for the bathroom you know your guests will snoop around in. Diptyque Do Son Soap Citrusy, creamy, and honestly a work of art. Inspired by tuberose flowers of Indochina, this almond oil–rich bar moisturises while looking like it belongs in an art gallery. Bathe to Basics Best Wishes Trio A Hong Kong-made set with Pomelo Leaf, Seven Flower, and Peach Blossom soaps—each symbolising prosperity, love, and longevity. Housed in a pinewood box, they’re as giftable as they are sink-worthy. Neal’s Yard Remedies Geranium & Orange Hand Wash Botanical, bright, and proudly organic. Think clear bottle, cheerful fragrance, and a gentle cleanse that feels refreshing without going clinical. Officine Universelle Buly Savon Superfin The Parisian classic. Subtle scent, natural oils, timeless design. It’s the kind of soap that never gets hidden away, because displaying it is half the point. Luxury soaps prove that even the tiniest corner of your home can feel intentional. And honestly, there’s something delightful about turning a hand wash into a little luxury ritual.

SPF Is Expensive Now?! Here’s How To Stretch Every Drop Like Your Rent Depends On It

“Sorry, can we talk about the Elephant in the room, SPF (or Sunscreen)?” — after seeing a post sent by my friend, I hopped on (literally, hopped) to my favorite store and bham! my go-to SPF had gone up by 50%. I walked out of the store without it, understandably offended. Thankfully, I’m not alone. TikTok, Reddit, and every group chat with skin-conscious besties are sounding the alarm: Sunscreen is officially on its luxury era arc. That tiny 30ml bottle? Suddenly feels like you’re buying liquid gold. Spoiler alert: you’re not imagining things. A cocktail of inflation, skincare innovation, and yes, some political shenanigans (hello, tariffs), has SPF prices climbing like your blood pressure on a Monday. And while you should be reapplying it like clockwork — two fingers’ worth every few hours — many are treating sunscreen like a splurge rather than the essential it is. But here’s the kicker: melanoma cases have jumped 31% in the UK over the past decade. Most are tied to UV exposure. So yeah, ditching sunscreen altogether isn’t the smartest rebellion. If your bank account is beefing with your skincare, let’s talk strategy. So, Why TF Is Sunscreen So Pricey? Let’s get nerdy for a sec. According to cosmetic chemists, mineral sunscreens (the ones with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) are just expensive to make — especially the good ones that don’t make you look like Casper. Formulating them is basically skincare wizardry: they’re finicky, prone to chalkiness, and need serious finesse to feel smooth on the skin. That finesse? Costs money. Chemical sunscreens (think oxybenzone, octocrylene) are easier to make and generally cheaper. But price doesn’t always equal quality — more on that soon. Cheap vs Bougie SPF: Does It Matter? Good news: in the UK, whether your sunscreen is £10 or £100, it legally has to pass SPF testing before it hits the shelves. So, yes, SPF 50 is SPF 50. “Even luxury brands often use the same ingredient suppliers as budget ones,” says Scott. Translation: You’re paying for packaging, texture, and that soft-focus luxury vibe — not necessarily better protection. Want to feel fancy? Go for it. Want to save your coins? That’s cool too — just pick something you’ll actually wear every day. Can’t Use It Daily? Here’s When To Prioritise Let’s be real: if sunscreen’s become a financial commitment, use it strategically. Check the UV index — if it’s 3 or higher, your skin’s at risk. Most weather apps show it. No need to memorize the UV forecast like a meteorologist — just know that sunny spring through early autumn is high-risk season. But even winter days with bright sun bouncing off clouds? Still a danger zone for UVA (aka the wrinkle and cancer-causing kind). Daily use builds good habits, so you’re covered without overthinking it. But if you skip a rainy January morning? Don’t spiral. Hot Tip: Use Sunscreen As Moisturiser If something’s gotta go, let your daytime moisturiser be the first to walk. A lot of modern SPFs double as moisturisers anyway. They’re packed with hydrating and skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C — the works. This is especially helpful for oily or combo skin: “In summer, many don’t need a separate moisturiser at all.” Fan favourites? CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF50 (£16.50): Ceramides + SPF = chef’s kiss. The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum (£15.80): Lightweight and hydrating. Garnier BHA+Niacinamide Daily UV Fluid SPF50 (£12.99): Keeps oil in check while blocking rays. The Bare Minimum Checklist (If You’re Only Buying One) If you’re only buying one sunscreen this year, make sure it’s:✅ SPF 30 or higher✅ Broad-spectrum (blocks UVA + UVB)✅ Water-resistant (more versatile) Don’t skimp on the amount. Use two to three finger lengths for your face and neck. Sunscreens usually last about 12 months once opened, but heat and light break them down, so store them like they’re vintage wine. Budget MVPs That Don’t Suck Here’s where it gets fun: Altruist Face Fluid SPF 30 (£7.85): Created by a dermatologist. No breakouts, no white cast, no excuses. Boots SPF+ Mineral Face Lotion SPF30 (£7.50): Editor-approved, wallet-friendly. Garnier Ambre Solaire Super UV SPF 50+ (£13): High protection, no drama. Bondi Sands Sunny Cream SPF 50+ (£12.99): Aussie beach vibes in a bottle. Oh, and pro tip: Lookfantastic and Face The Future are slashing prices and removing VAT on select SPF products all summer long. Snag brands like La Roche-Posay, Heliocare, and Medik8 at a discount before your sun damage gets expensive. Final Thoughts Sunscreen shouldn’t feel like a luxury. It’s not a serum, a sheet mask, or a skinfluencer trend — it’s the bare minimum. And while brands keep inflating prices and making SPF feel like it belongs in a jewellery box, science says any decent sunscreen used properly is doing the job. So skip the guilt, watch the UV index, and if you find a formula that feels good and fits your budget? Stick to it like it’s your ex’s Netflix password.

Trinny Woodall Champions Energy Over Age in Beauty

Trinny London

Trinny Woodall, the dynamic force behind Trinny London, is redefining beauty standards by emphasizing energy and vitality over age. At 61, she continues to inspire women worldwide, advocating for a perspective that values how one feels rather than the number of candles on a birthday cake. Embracing Energy Over Age For Trinny, age is merely a number. She believes that the true essence of beauty lies in the energy and confidence one exudes. “Age is irrelevant; it’s about the energy you bring,” she asserts, challenging the conventional focus on youth in the beauty industry. Her approach encourages women to embrace their vitality and inner strength, regardless of their age. Trinny London: A Brand for All Ages Founded in 2017, Trinny London reflects its creator’s philosophy by offering personalized beauty solutions that cater to individual needs rather than age groups. The brand’s innovative “stackable” makeup products and skincare lines are designed to simplify routines and empower users. By focusing on energy and self-expression, Trinny London has cultivated a loyal community that values authenticity over age. Authenticity and Empowerment Trinny’s candidness about her personal journey—including overcoming challenges like addiction and personal loss—resonates with many. She uses her platform to share not only beauty tips but also messages of resilience and self-care. Her transparency fosters a sense of connection and empowerment among her followers, encouraging them to prioritize their well-being and embrace their unique paths. Redefining Beauty Standards By shifting the narrative from anti-aging to pro-energy, Trinny challenges the industry’s traditional standards. She advocates for a more inclusive and empowering approach to beauty, one that celebrates individuality and the vibrancy of life at every stage. Her message is clear: beauty is not confined by age but is amplified by the energy and confidence one brings to the world. Trinny Woodall’s emphasis on energy over age offers a refreshing perspective in the beauty industry. Through her brand and personal ethos, she inspires individuals to embrace their vitality, prioritize self-care, and redefine beauty on their own terms. References: Apple Podcasts Financial Times John Lewis & Partners dailytelegraph Beauty Matter