If there's one thing I prioritise over anything else when doing my makeup, it's quick and easy products that deliver a natural-looking result. However, one thing I've struggled with is eyebrow pencils. I'm a "no-makeup" makeup gal through and through, so I find myself reaching for tinted moisturisers, multi-use makeup sticks, glossy lip balms and more. I can do most of my routine in five minutes tops, but my eyebrows always take me the longest.

The thing is, I want them to look fluffy and full, but I also want them to look as if they've got no product in at all, you know? Therefore, I find myself sitting in front of my mirror, attempting to create the finest hair-like strokes, and before I know it, ten minutes have gone by. Well, that was the case until I discovered a small edit of natural-looking brow gels that have completely changed my life. Okay, maybe that's me being dramatic, but they have changed my entire makeup routine.

The thing about these gels is that they deliver the perfect amount of shape and fluffiness while remaining completely undetectable. They're the ultimate "your brows but better" product, and have tricked countless friends and family into thinking that I'm blessed with the best brows in the game. (Trust me, I'm really not). Below, I've rounded up my tried-and-tested edit of the best natural-looking brow gels on the market, so keep on scrolling to shop.

The Best Natural-Looking Brow Gels, Tried & Tested

• Best Overall: Glossier Boy Brow, £22
• Best for a Sculpted Finish: Vieve Modern Brow Gel, £23
• Best Tinted Brow Gel: Rare Beauty Brow Harmony Flexible Lifting Gel, £19
• Best for Lift: Refy Brow Sculpt, £20
• Best for Volume: Merit Brow 1980, £21

1. Glossier Boy Brow

First up, an absolute classic. Glossier Boy Brow is definitely one of the most popular brow gels out there, and for good reason. The tiny brush makes it easy to catch every single hair, and the formula provides a natural, fluffy, flexible finish, meaning your brows look subtly defined, rather than super bold. Plus, there are seven shades available depending on whether you prefer a tinted or clear version. I've repurchased it for years, and don't plan on stopping anytime soon.

2. Vieve Modern Brow Gel

This is one of my favourite beauty launches of the entire year, and that's saying a lot. This brow gel is incredible at delivering a naturally sculpted finish; it dries down completely clear, and it lasts all day. In fact, one night I fell asleep with my makeup on (not recommended), and I woke up to my brows still perfectly in place. It won't add any major lift or fluffiness, but it will make your natural brows look so polished.

3. Rare Beauty Brow Harmony Flexible Lifting Gel

If you want a brow gel that delivers lift, shape and a tint to your brows, then look no further. Similar to Glossier's Boy Brow, this product has a teeny, tiny brush that coats every single hair. I've found it hard in the past to find a tinted brow gel that still delivers a natural-looking finish, but thanks to the lightweight formula, this does exactly that.

4. Refy Brow Sculpt

Refy's brow gel has been advertised as a statement gel that delivers a laminated brow look at home. However, I actually think this product is incredibly versatile. Yes, you can build it up to create a super statement finish, but just one coat creates a more natural, lifted look that stays in place for hours. I'd definitely recommend starting with a small amount and seeing how you get on, but if you like a naturally laminated look, I don't think you can go wrong with this.

5. Merit Brow 1980

If soft, fluffy brows are your goal, you need to know about this Merit brow gel. Delivering just the right amount of volume, it gives brows that effortlessly cool finish whilst looking as if you've barely touched them. It's not as good at holding them in place as others in this roundup, but I personally love the flexibility that it gives.

6. Dior Diorshow On Set Brow

Last but not least, this beauty from Dior. Adding subtle volume and a natural-looking tint to the brows, it's a product I find myself reaching for almost daily. It's just one of those things that you can swipe on and go, knowing your brows are in the very best hands. Plus, it feels super lightweight but delivers impressive hold.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

As a beauty editor and a beauty lover, I love the self-expression that makeup can bring. And every makeup brand has its own specific identity and signature. When I want to feel polished and luxe, I reach for Victoria Beckham Beauty. When I only have five minutes to get out the door, it's Merit Beauty with its effortless formulas that I can swipe on and go. But my most-loved makeup brands all have one common thread. They have to be luxurious, deliver a "no-makeup" makeup look effortlessly, and, crucially, be easy to use. And a makeup brand that delivers on all fronts is Fara Homidi.

Homidi is a top makeup artist renowned for her minimalistic approach to beauty, who has worked with just about every major publication, fashion house and model you can think of. You only have to glance at her recent Loewe campaign makeup to understand her aesthetic. The skin is pared-back and minimal, and has hints of blush and dewiness in all the right places that make it look totally natural and not overly perfected.

However, she's also an artist with her use of colour, and has made painterly dewy blue eyeshadow another of her signatures. It's minimalistic, but it's also a makeup brand that knows how to have fun, with creamy textures that you can apply with your fingertips and that move with you throughout the day and night. Below, I'm sharing the products that deserve a spot in your makeup bag next.

Best Fara Homidi Products

1. Essential Eye Compact

If you only try one Fara Homidi product, make it one of the Essential Eye Compacts. These sleek compacts house three cream eyeshadows, designed to be used alone or worn together, and they leave you with a glossy, lived-in eye look. You know how a smoky eye often looks better a few hours later? This creates the effect instantly. These aren't cream shadows that dry down. Instead, they remain glossy on the lids. It does mean that they crease, but it's all part of the look in creating a lived-in, smudgy eyeshadow look. I've been using the Trio No. 20, which has a trio of wearable neutrals, but I'm also taken to Trio No.61, which has a stunning blue eyeshadow that is the most perfect '90s-inspired shade, and can be worn sheer or dialled up to full electric blue.

2. Essential Blonzer Compact

Part blusher, part bronzer, this blonzer gives you a flushed, just-been-in-the-sun glow with just one product. I think this is one of the most natural-looking powder blonzers I've tried, and the Nue shade gives my skin a pink tone that captures exactly how my skin would catch the sun. I like to swipe it on my cheeks, and a little on my nose, top of my forehead and a touch on my chin, and it really makes me feel sunkissed and outdoorsy in mere seconds. What makes it so natural-looking is the radiant matte texture, which doesn't have any shimmer but has a subtle radiance that mimics the natural radiance of your skin. I adore it.

3. Essential Face Compact

This dual-complexion compact is such a great one to throw in your bag that it negates the need for carrying foundation, concealer or highlighter in your makeup bag—this does it all (and it has a mirror!). It contains the Smooth Veil Soft Matte formula, a foundation-concealer hybrid that does the job of both, and the Shine Baume, which delivers dewy, glossy skin and looks stunning tapped onto the cheekbones. The creamy concealer melts into the skin for a radiant matte finish, disguising redness and blemishes in just the areas that need it with medium coverage, whilst the highlighter allows you to create dimension in your skin and tailor the glow you prefer. A total hard-worker for your makeup bag, and like the rest of the compacts, it's refillable too, should you need to top up or change shades during the changing seasons.

4. Shader Brush

If you need a sign to update your makeup brushes, then let it be this. It's a smart move to invest in makeup brushes created by a makeup artist themself, and these brushes are both beautiful in looks and in quality. This nimble shader brush is created in Japan (a country that produces the best brushes), and is perfect for buffing bronzer, blusher or bronzer into a seamless, natural finish. The tapered finish is great for precise placement, whilst the fluffy bristles blend your products perfectly. It may be an investment, but it's one that's worthwhile.

5. Essential Bronzer Compact

6. Essential Lip Compact

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

If there's an unsung hero of my makeup routine, it's highlighter. However, if I'm being totally honest, it's taken me a long time to welcome highlighter into my routine. Growing up, the only highlighter options were the pressed powder variety, which were always way too full of glitter and shimmer for me to get on board with. Which is why I've welcomed in glowy highlighter sticks with open arms, ever since makeup artists introduced me to these magical formulas that deliver goddess-level glow.

Rather than being glitzy, these creamy formulas impart a dewy glow to your skin. It's more natural-looking, easier to swipe on and pat with your fingertips for precise placement and makes your complexion look like you stepped out from an expensive facial. After all, there's only so much glow that can be achieved in your skincare routine, from a glowy moisturiser or serum, and these highlighter sticks are the easiest way to dial up your radiance in one swipe in the exact places you require it.

After all, glowy highlighter sticks are not only for your cheeks. They can also be swiped onto the browbone for an ethereal accent, on the lids for a glossy lid or even on the décolletage or shins when your outfit calls for a little body radiance without the stickiness of a shimmery body oil. You can even mix them with your blusher, or tap onto your lips. TLDR; a glowy highlighter stick can be one of the hardest-working products in your makeup bag.

Having seen just about every celebrity step out on the red carpet with dewy, glossy cheekbones, I thought it was high time that I shared my favourite glowy highlighter sticks that recreate that glassy glow. Scroll on for the ones that permanently live in my makeup bag.

Best Glowy Highlighter Sticks

• Best Overall: Westman Atelier Lit Up Highlight Stick
• Best Shimmer Highlighter: Victoria Beckham Beauty Reflect Highlighter Stick
• Best Luxury Highlighter Stick: Chanel Baume Essentiel Multi-Use Glow Stick
• Best Glowy SPF Stick: Givenchy Skin Perfecto Stick UV SPF 50 PA++++ Protector

1. Westman Atelier Lit Up Highlight Stick Lit Up

I've not met a Westman Atelier product I don't love, but this highlighter stick is never out of my permanent rotation. This dewy stick imparts a glossy glow upon your cheekbones that's never sticky; instead, it makes your complexion look like you just stepped out from a facial. It comes in a completely transparent option if you don't want any shimmer or colour; however, don't overlook the tinted shades, which have the slightest hint of glimmer (read: not glittery). I love the pink-gold tones of Nectar, which I'm using a lot during summer.

2. Victoria Beckham Beauty Reflect Highlighter Stick

Victoria Beckham Beauty's Reflect Highlighter Stick is another favourite, and just look at that vintage-inspired gilded packaging. Aesthetics aside, this highlighter stick provides a glossy glow to your cheeks, but with a pearly, satin-like finish that strikes the balance of looking dewy but not glitzy. I have the shade Pearl, which delivers a sheer luminous glow, whereas Amber has a golden undertone that complements deeper skin tones and leaves light complexions looking bronzed. If you want a dewy highlighter stick and don't mind a slight hint of pearly colour, this is the one to go for.

3. Chanel Baume Essential Multi-Use Glow Stick

Chanel was one of the first to innovate with a sheer, glossy highlighter stick when everyone else was creating glitzy powder highlighters, so for that reason I'll always consider this product iconic. It's beloved by makeup artists and editors alike (including myself), and is often out of stock as it's just that good. It comes in a totally transparent shade for those who want a glassy cheek, but you'll also find it in sheer tinted colourways if you want a hint of colour. My favourite is Sculpting, which has the slightest hint of pear shimmer that illuminates the skin with an expensive-looking sheen.

4. Dior Backstage Glassy Glow Stick

5. Merit Beauty Day Glow

Oh Merit Beauty, there is nothing you can do wrong. Whilst a lot of dewy highlighter sticks have a glossy, wet-look slip to their textures, this one has a grippier, balmy texture that means your hair won't get stuck in it, but it also makes for a longer-lasting glow without compromising on glow. The shades are brilliant, also, spanning bronze and gold through to champagne and rose gold. They have more pearl to them than other transparent highlighters, but the result isn't glitzy. Instead, it bestows a halo-esque glow wherever you choose to swipe it.

6. Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Highlighter Glazed Goddess

7.  Givenchy Skin Perfecto Stick UV SPF 50 PA++++ Protector

How We Tested

As a beauty editor, I've spent years testing the best highlighter sticks. From new launches to makeup artist recommendations, I've been able to test some of the best highlighters that come in stick form. I've been able to decipher the highlighter sticks that are truly transparent and deliver a dewy look, alongside the tinted and shimmer varieties that add a touch of colour to your cheeks. Most of the highlighter sticks I've tested are everyday favourites in my makeup bag that I've used for years.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

If there's one person I am dying to interview as a beauty editor, it's Nina Park. The makeup artist has painted some of the most famous faces in the industry, including Zoë Kravitz, Kaia Gerber, Sadie Sink and Emma Stone. Whilst each makeup look is perfection, there's one particular part that has people talking more than anything else. Lipstick.

The "Nina Park Lip" has become an icon in its own right, and if you follow the makeup artist on Instagram, you'll know why. Park has somehow created the most sought-after, neutral, diffused lip look, and we're all desperate to know exactly how she does it. (And more importantly, what lip liner she uses).

As it turns out, her latest glowy makeup look (on none other than Sadie Sink) involved my favourite nude lip liner of all time. Yes, it seems as if I've been doing the "Nina Park Lip" all along, and I have to say, I'm feeling pretty smug about it.

Sink was spotted getting ready for the Spider-Man: Brand New Day premiere, wearing a full face of Guerlain makeup. Park created the most gorgeous, terracotta-toned look, and on the lips, she used Guerlain's Contour G Lip Pencil in the shade 02 Le Beige Praline.

Park could be seen applying the liner slightly below the natural lip line to create a fuller effect, before finishing things off with the Guerlain Rouge G lipstick in the shade 234 L’Orange Sienne. The result? A plump, diffused, neutral-toned lip that would look just as good at the office as it would on the red carpet.

Considering how many people are desperate to recreate the "Nina Park Lip", I have a feeling that this lip liner is about to become the next big thing. I plan on stocking up before it sells out...

Shop the Guerlain Contour G Lip Pencil

Shop More of Nina Park's Favourite Lip Liners

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

French women are synonymous with effortless, low-key beauty, but when the temperatures soar above 30°C, their routines become even more streamlined. Swipes of red lipstick make way for taps of tinted lip balm. Some individuals even forgo makeup altogether, and only essential skincare heroes (serum-like sunscreen, facial mist) make it into their carry-ons. Though you may find some surprising staples, such as a cooling jelly sheet mask, peeking out of their straw totes.

Basically, if you're ever looking for "work smarter, not harder" summer beauty recommendations, you should ask a French woman for a glimpse inside her beach bag. If that sounds rather unrealistic and perhaps a little extra, the next best thing you can do is scroll ahead. I tasked three of the chicest French women I know with sharing their ride-or-die holiday items for every getaway imaginable. Your summer awaits!

Franny Fyne, Content Creator

I shouldn't be surprised that Paris-based content creator Franny Fyne, with her wispy French-girl fringe and collection of minimalist-chic outfits, has her vacation beauty regimen down to a science. "On holiday, my routine takes all of five minutes," she tells me, noting l'Ampolla—a small village in Catalonia—as her favourite getaway spot. "Several beaches, a little house a few kilometres away surrounded by olive trees, a timeless atmosphere… It's my anchor, my annual reset for the past few years." While she hasn't booked concrete plans this year, "l'Ampolla doesn't ask for much, and that's exactly what makes it [her] little corner of paradise."

If and when she does book the trip, she'll pack just the essentials: sunscreen, a gel face mask she chills in the freezer the night before ("I take it out when the heat becomes truly intense—guaranteed surprise from everyone around me and immediate soothing relief," she quips), and a few "no-makeup" makeup heroes for a lightweight, dewy visage. "Letting the skin breathe while giving it that little radiance that makes all the difference," she adds.

All these staples—along with a book, a pareo skirt and sun oil—pile up in her wicker basket, which she deems the ultimate Euro summer accessory. "It embodies that quiet nonchalance that nothing else can quite imitate," she says. "It sets the tone before you've even set foot on the sand. Ultimately, [it's] the most French thing there is."

Shop Fyne's Beach Bag

Sophie Carbonari, Celebrity Aesthetician

"I don't make summer plans. I've decided that spontaneity is the ultimate luxury I can afford myself at this point. I simply close my studio when I want to leave and go," Paris-based celebrity aesthetician Sophie Carbonari says. That sentence officially cements her as the chicest Parisian I know—as if I didn't already consider her iconic. Typically, however, her summer starts in Arles for a weeklong getaway, commencing with the Rencontres d'Arles photography festival.

"Breakfast at Mazette, lunch at Nord-Pinus (where I work from my laptop), afternoons browsing at L'Arlatan, shopping at Moustique, flamenco nights, and dinner at Inari. From there, I visit friends in Marseille, then head to the Amalfi Coast—Naples and the surrounding area. I get everything I love: art, sea, food, and sun," she muses. "But honestly, who knows where I'll go this year?" It seems like a solid plan to me!

Given she's one of Paris's most sought-after facialists, you better believe she has her on-the-go skincare routine down pat. "I try to be minimal but intentional," she says, encouraging refreshing mist, smoothing serum and post-sun recovery formulas, all of which you'll discover below. "People think skincare is optional on vacation, but it's actually when it matters most," she adds. "Sun damage, salt water, chlorine, dehydration—your skin is under siege. You either support it or spend the next month recovering."

Shop Carbonari's Beach Bag

Violette Serrat, Makeup Artist

Violette Serrat certainly knows a thing or two about low-maintenance makeup. "The only way to look effortless is to be effortless. That's really the secret. It's five minutes in the bathroom, not 50," the iconic makeup artist and Violette_FR founder once told me about her best French beauty tips. Of course, her holiday beauty regimen subscribes to a similar philosophy, whether she's headed to the South of France ("truly one of my favourite places in the world," she tells me) or, like this summer, recharging at her home in picturesque Connecticut. Case in point? When headed to the beach, this makeup artist actually eschews makeup.

"I never wear makeup to the beach, just a little Balm Amour for healthy shine, a bandana—which French women always seem to have—and a book that I seem to never have time to read," she shares. "For me, French beauty is about enjoying the moment, not worrying about how you look." With that, find her pre- and post-sun essentials ahead.

Shop Serrat's Beach Bag

Opening image: @frannfyne

As beauty journalists, we're used to seeing hundreds of new beauty products pass our beauty desk every single month. So, we're always testing new makeup, skincare, fragrance and hair care (we're truly spoilt, I know). But despite having access to a cupboard full of beauty products, there are always our firm favourites that have a permanent residency in our makeup bags. These are the products that we're never swayed away from, no matter what shiny new launch comes along. And for me, the Lisa Eldridge Seamless Skin Enhancing Tint (£39) is a skin tint I just know I'll be using forever.

Lisa Eldridge Seamless Skin Enhancing Tint

The Formula

Lisa Eldridge MBE is one of the world's top makeup artists who has worked with just about every famous face you could name, so I never doubted that this formula wouldn't be anything short of exceptional. Eldridge is renowned for her natural-looking approach to the complexion, preferring to place foundation and complexion products only in the places they're really needed rather than masking the skin. And she has totally bottled this ethos in this skin tint.

Inside the pebble-shaped bottle is a tint with a water-like consistency, which immediately sinks into the skin, offering a sheer, lightweight finish that's akin to a second skin and does so without highlighting enlarged pores or fine lines.

The formula contains hydrating ingredients such as squalane, glycerin and prickly pear and sunflower seed oils. As someone with oily-leaning skin, I was initially worried it would be too heavy on my skin, but it sits beautifully. I love a naturally radiant finish, and this skin tint delivers just that. It's neither too dewy nor too matte, but just looks like skin that has a healthy glow. This would be perfect for those with dry or combination skin, but is still matte enough for those with oilier skin who favour a more glowy finish.

The Finish

What I love about this skin tint is that it offers the perfect amount of coverage without feeling like you're wearing anything at all. It blurs redness and pigmentation, yet it still lets my freckles peek through. Of course, the sheer finish won't offer enough coverage to hide inflamed acne or redness, but it's perfect for day-to-day makeup when you want to even your skin, and it makes a great base to then apply a little concealer in just the places that require it. It's the ultimate "no makeup" makeup skin tint.

It wears so well throughout the day, whether worn alone on top of SPF, or finished with concealer and powder. The finish isn't so dewy that it disappears, yet not too matte that it clings to any dryness. I'm prone to oiliness around my nose and chin, yet this holds up throughout the day and never turns oily or cakey—a little powder on top sets it perfectly.

The shade range is expansive, covering a range of undertones across different shades so that you can find a good match for your skin tone. I'm writing this review in the height of summer, where I have a bit more of a tan at the moment, and shade T7 has been a great match for my complexion, which has neutral undertones. In short, I'll never be without a bottle of this skin tint in my makeup bag.

Shop Now:

How We Tested

I've been using the Lisa Eldridge Seamless Skin Enhancing Tint since it launched, and it's become an everyday staple in my makeup bag. I have oily-combination skin, so I've put this skin tint through its paces to see how it holds up on my skin type, as well as how it wears over SPF and with other makeup. I've also tested a couple of the shades in the range during the warmer and cooler months.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

As much as I love to indulge in a trending beauty hack or new product every now and then, there’s something about classic and polished makeup that draws me in every time. And this, of course, extends to my blushers, opting for pared-back hues like brown and burgundy over bold shades each and every time. However, luckily for me, there’s a new blush trend on the radar of chic people that perfectly strikes the balance between feeling fresh for 2026 and timeless enough to fit seamlessly into my classic makeup routine. And you might just recognise it from '90s makeup looks. Enter the nude blush.

Between capri pants, thin eyebrows and low-rise jeans, it's clear that 2026 is the year of the ‘90s revival. But none of these things feels quite as compelling to me as the return of the nude blush. It enhances your natural complexion without looking overdone or taking you out of your comfort zone, creating a healthy, natural-looking flush on the cheeks. It also works well with every type of makeup look, from a bold red lip to your everyday "no-makeup" makeup look. Not to mention that this flattering blush trend will never ever look dated, even in the many years to come.

As someone with a deeper skin tone, I think of a nude blush as a dark brown or rich mocha hue; however, there are plenty of options on the market to suit every skin tone and undertone.

I'm personally planning to wear this chic blush trend from now and well into the autumn and winter seasons. And if you are too, keep scrolling to see and shop the best nude blushes for every skin tone.

Best Nude Blushes, According to a Beauty Writer

• Best Overall: MAC Cosmetics Skinfinish Colourstruck Blush (£28)
• Best Liquid Blush: Nars Insatiable Liquid Blush (£36)
• Best Cream Blush: Merit Beauty Flush Balm (£26)
• Best Powder Blush: BareMinerals Gen Nude Powder Blush (£27)

1. MAC Cosmetics Skinfinish Colourstruck Blush

When it comes to championing the ‘90s nude blush trend, it should come as no surprise that MAC Cosmetics is at the top of this list. And with 29 shades (11 of which are nude) to choose from, it’s no wonder why this blush is constantly being praised on social media at the moment. So, of course, after seeing the rave reviews on my TikTok For You Page, I decided to give it a try. I’m obsessed with the blurring effect this blush has, even with the shades that have a more radiant finish. It’s the perfect second-skin blush to add to the soft-matte makeup looks I’ll be turning to when early autumn comes around. My only recommendation would be to prep your skin properly if you have dry skin like me.

2. Merit Beauty Flush Balm

If you’re a regular reader of Who What Wear, then you’ll know just how much we adore Merit’s Flush Balm for its dewy and healthy-looking finish. With seven different nude shades to choose from, this blush will suit a wide range of skin tones. Plus, it's formulated with vitamin E, which helps to boost hydration. This allows it to blend in seamlessly as opposed to sitting on top of the cheeks, which only adds to the natural-looking nude glow it gives you. Due to how creamy the texture is, it doesn’t last as long on the face as other blushes on the market; however, it’s compact enough to take on the go for reapplication, so I’m not at all discouraged from using it.

3. Nars Insatiable Liquid Blush

If you’re a lover of liquid blush, look no further than Nars’ Insatiable Liquid Blush. Launching only two months ago, I haven’t had this in my makeup bag for very long; however, it's already become a firm favourite in my nude blush collection. It's a highly pigmented but easily blendable formula that settles into a second-skin-like satin finish. All Access and Brash are the perfect nude shades for my deeper skin tone, but there are also four other lighter hues to choose from. Just be aware that a little goes a very long way and the product dries down rather quickly, so blend it out immediately to avoid patchiness.

4. BareMinerals Gen Nude Powder Blush

As someone with dry skin, I’m very critical of powder blushes and their ability not to look cakey or patchy on my cheeks. However, BareMinerals’ Gen Nude Powder Blush was an instant hit with me. Created to mimic the natural flush on your face, this creamy pressed powder was created to give the skin a flattering, soft-focus finish. With ten nude shades to choose from, there’s something to suit every skin tone, so if you’re looking for a truly natural-finish blush that’s subtle and won’t be overpowering, I cannot recommend this enough.

5. Haus Labs Color Fuse Glassy Cheek Stick

I have extremely dry and eczema-prone skin, so any makeup product that incorporates skin care into its formula very quickly grabs my attention. The Haus Labs Glassy Cheek Stick in Clove is not only the perfect nude shade for my deeper skin tone, but it's also packed with skin-loving ingredients that improve hydration by up to 62%. And, trust me when I say it lives up to its claim. It’s dewy, luminous and glowy, but have no fear about it looking too waxy or artificially shiny like other blushes on the market often do. Not to mention that if Glassy Clove is too dark for you, this skin-loving formula also comes in a range of increasingly lighter nude shades. Just note that if you have oily or acne-prone skin, this is one that you’ll want to set with a powder on top.

6. Rhode Pocket Blush in Tan Line

Perfect for on-the-go use, Rhode’s Pocket Blush quickly became a cult favourite amongst editors and makeup lovers alike. And the shade Tan Line is the perfect shade for those with tan or medium skin tones. A wearable pinky-brown that was created to mimic a sun-kissed glow, this creamy blush can be sheered out for a natural flush or built up for a more dramatic look. This shade is too light for me personally, but I’m a big fan of the deeper shade, Toasted Teddy, which is a gorgeous bronze-terracotta that blends in seamlessly for a glowy, neutral-looking finish.

7. Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Cheek Tint in Rosy Nude

If you have a paler complexion, opting for a light pink or beige tone is your best bet for a natural-looking nude blush that doesn't look muddy or orange. When looking for the perfect recommendation. Armani Beauty’s Luminous Silk Cheek Tint was by far the most popular amongst my fellow editors and friends. Described as a soft, neutral beige-pink, this your-cheeks-but-better shade will give you a natural but glowy flush of colour that can be built up into a more dramatic look. But don’t just take it from me; one reviewer says, “Rosy Nude is one of those shades that’s incredibly easy to build up or keep sheer, depending on the look I’m going for. Even with a small amount, it gives that perfect natural blush that looks like it’s coming from your skin.”

How Do I Pick My Nude Blush Shade?

For Fair/Light Skin Tones

Opt for: Soft beige, light pink, pale peach, and muted rose.

For Tan/Medium Skin Tones

Opt for: Medium peach, tan-nude, very light browns, medium pink, and soft terracotta.

For Dark Skin Tones

Opt for: Warm caramel, dark peach, cinnamon, and rosy brown.

For Deep Skintones

Opt for: Rich mocha, brown, dark rose, burgundy, berry-brown, and rich terracotta.

Why Trust Us?

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

As a beauty editor, I've been riding the Korean skincare wave for some time now and, happily, there are plenty of products that have earned a permanent place in my skincare routine. When it comes to Korean makeup, though, I've been a bit slower on the uptake, something I now bitterly regret. Having finally given these products a go and been majorly impressed, I think they deserve just as much of a spotlight as the skincare.

So, what's the deal with Korean makeup, you ask? "Like Korean skincare, Korean makeup is all about achieving the glass-skin look," reveals Dr Christine Hall, GP, aesthetic physician, emergency medicine doctor and K-beauty expert.

Forget covering the skin with a heavy foundation; the focus is on enhancing what you already have and creating a fresh, healthy-looking complexion with an impressive array of glow-boosting products. "Korean makeup is also known for being very innovative, especially when it comes to making products more practical," adds Dr Hall.

Innovative, lightweight and affordable? What's not to love? Below, I've put some of the most-hyped Korean makeup products to the test to find out which ones are actually worth the hype.

The Best Korean Makeup Products

• Best Korean Eyeshadow Palette: About Tone Ohmy Glitter Pop 03 Oh Dreamer, £12.50
• Best Korean Colour Pot: Dasique Dasique Souffle Color Pot, £16
• Best Korean Cushion Compact: Tir Tir Mask Fit AI Filter Cushion, £20.99
• Best Korean Lip Stain: Rom&nd Juicy Lasting Tint Bare Grape, £16
• Best Korean Mascara: BBIA Never Die Mascara, £8.90
• Best Korean Lip & Blush Stick: Tir Tir Mood Glider Lip & Blush Stick

1. About Tone Oh my Glitter Pop 03 Oh Dreamer

About Tone is a relatively new K-beauty makeup brand on the scene, with an ethos built around easy-to-use products that enhance rather than mask. Its products are also vegan and cruelty-free.

This palette is a 10/10. The shimmer catches the light beautifully, the shades work together seamlessly, and you can easily build the intensity for stronger definition. The formula also outshone some other well-known palettes that cost three times the price.

2. BBIA Never Die Mascara

BBIA is a Korean makeup brand that has been around since 2004 and is known for creating high-performing, affordable colour cosmetics. I really like this mascara. At first glance, I thought the brush would be too small, but it did a stellar job of creating long, defined lashes that stay perfectly curled all day without smudging.

3. TirTir Mood Glider Lip & Blush Stick

If you've spent any time on BeautyTok over the past year, chances are you've come across TIRTIR. The brand has become one of K-beauty's biggest breakout stars, thanks to its viral complexion products that deliver the fresh, glowing skin the category is famous for. While it first made its name in skincare, TIRTIR is now best known for its bestselling cushion foundations, which is why I decided to try a few more of their other products.

This multi-tasker really packed a punch in terms of impressive staying power. True to the brand's skin-first philosophy, it enhances your natural radiance with a breathable texture that looks and feels like skin. It's highly pigmented and has a slight glowy sheen, which I loved as I didn't need to bother with highlighter.

4. ROM&ND Juicy Lasting Tint

If there's one Korean lip product that's achieved cult status, it's the Rom&nd Juicy Lasting Tint. Beloved for its glossy finish and impressive staying power, I found the formula delivers the look of a juicy lip gloss with the longevity of a stain, leaving behind a soft wash of colour even after the shine fades.

5. Tir Tir Mask Fit Foundation

If you can't quite get on board with a cushion compact, don't panic; this pump foundation delivers the same signature TIRTIR glow in a more familiar format. Inspired by the brand's cult-favourite Red Cushion, it offers buildable, full coverage with a lightweight, second-skin feel, leaving skin looking radiant rather than masked. Better still, I found the satin finish stayed put for up to 15 hours with minimal fading or transfer, making it an ideal choice for long days.

6. Eborian CC Cream

I've long adored this CC cream for how undetectable it looks on the skin while still effortlessly disguising breakouts, redness and dullness. For the days when you really don't want a full beat, reach only for this.

7.  Dasique Souffle Color Pot

If there's one product that sums up the soft, blurred aesthetic of Korean makeup, it's the Dasique Soufflé Color Pot. Made for both the cheeks and lips, the airy, mousse-like formula blends beautifully into the skin, creating a diffused wash of colour that never looks heavy or overdone. I'm a big fan of the Burnt Sienna, a terracotta brown that adds natural-looking warmth to the complexion and doubles as a flattering lip tint. I also found this product almost impossible to overapply, while the soft-matte finish gives that coveted 'just-pinched' flush.

8. Beauty of Joseon Tinted Sunscreen

With its fluid, almost serum-like texture, this Beauty Joseon SPF melts into the skin without feeling heavy or cakey, making it perfect for those days when a full foundation feels like too much. The tint is subtle but strong enough to blur imperfections and enhance your natural skin tone, giving that effortless "your skin but better" finish that Korean makeup is known for.

9. Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dewy Flush

I wasn't completely sold on this product at first as it took a few tries before I really understood the hype. But after giving it a proper chance, I found myself coming back to it again and again. The formula has that signature glow-boosting effect the brand is known for, helping to refine the appearance of texture while also leaving skin with a boost of colour so that it looks fresh, plump and luminous.

10. TIRTIR Mask Fit Ai Filter Cushion

Dr Hall is a big fan of cushion compacts, and it's easy to see why. 'Instead of a traditional liquid foundation in a pump bottle, the formula is stored inside a compact cushion and applied using a puff. This makes it super easy to apply a thin layer and build coverage where needed,' she explains.

While the formula is creamy, it doesn't feel as though it sits on the skin, meaning you don't get that mask-like feeling. It has a matte finish too, so it's perfect for oily-prone skin. Prefer a glowier finish? Try the TIRTIR Red Compact instead.

11. Fwee Lip&cheek Blurry Pudding Pot

Another lip and cheek stain worthy of a spot in your makeup bag. It differs from Dasique Soufflé Color Pot in that its pudding-like texture feels bouncier and more cushiony. The biggest difference is the finish and payoff. Dasique delivers a delicate, romantic flush, while Fwee offers a more buildable pop of colour with a velvety blur that can be layered on both lips and cheeks.

What Makes Korean Makeup Products Different?

Korean makeup is different from Western makeup in a lot of the same ways that Korean skincare is different. "Korean makeup products are actually hybrid, and this comes from the K-beauty focus on looking after your skin, supporting the skin barrier and using gentle ingredients that help care for your skin while you’re wearing makeup," explains Dr Hall.

Korean makeup is also known for being very innovative, especially when it comes to making products more practical, such as the cushion compact. "Korean brands also combine makeup with skincare ingredients to create products that target different skin concerns. Erborian is loved for its BB and CC creams, which are a great alternative to heavier foundation if you want a lighter base with ingredients such as centella asiatica, hyaluronic acid and SPF," continues Dr Hall.

At a glance, Korean makeup is also different. "Solid lipstick colour is rare, with softer gradient lips being favoured. Eye makeup is often peach toned and not heavily pigmented, and even the styles differ," reveals Dr Hall. "You will see many influencers doing split-face makeup US/UK vs Korean, and you will see it is a lot more subtle. Brows are straighter and thicker, winged liner tends to angle slightly downwards and colours slightly lighter than natural are favoured. For example, lighter browns for brow products," she adds.

What Are the Best Korean Makeup Application Techniques?

One Korean makeup technique that has recently become popular in the West is applying blusher under the eyes, explains Dr Hall. "The under-eye blush trend went viral on TikTok and is heavily inspired by K-beauty. One of my favourite products for this look is the Fwee Lip & Cheek Blurry Pudding Pot."

"Aegyo-sal is another interesting observation which refers to the small roll of fat under the eyes. It is something patients in the West complain to me about in clinic, whereas in Korea these are drawn onto the area and considered to be very cute," she adds.

Korean makeup also often tends to favour softer and straighter brows compared to the more arched brow trends popular in Western makeup. "A straighter brow is often seen as giving a softer and more youthful appearance," continues Dr Hall.

Finally, another technique is a soft shimmer or brightening shade in the inner corners of the eyes to make them look bigger, brighter and more awake. "It’s usually very subtle rather than a dramatic highlight," adds the Korean beauty expert.

What Makes Korean Makeup Products Better?

"Rather than being better for everyone, Korean makeup products are great because many brands combine makeup with skincare, comfort and innovation," says Dr Hall.

Korean beauty is also known for creating products that are easy to use and practical. From cushion foundations to lip tints and multi-use cream products, many formulas are designed to be quick, convenient and very easy to apply.

Another reason people love Korean makeup is the textures and finishes. "Korean brands are known for creating formulas that feel different from traditional makeup, ranging from lightweight cushions and watery lip tints to soft-blurring cream products. Many textures feel creamy, airy or almost whipped, making them easy to blend into the skin. Rather than sitting heavily on top of the skin, they melt in to create a more natural, comfortable finish," she adds.

Who Might Suit Korean Makeup Formulas Best?

"Korean makeup is a great choice for anyone who prefers a lightweight and natural-looking makeup look rather than a full coverage or heavy base. If you like fresh and glowing skin and makeup that still looks like your skin, you’ll probably really enjoy Korean makeup formulas," reveals Dr Hall.

She adds that people with dry, normal or combination skin often love Korean makeup because of the comfortable textures and a dewy finish. "There are also lots of options for oily skin too, as many Korean formulas are designed with warmer and more humid climates in mind."

Equally, Dr Hall adds that Korean makeup might not be for everyone, especially if you prefer a full coverage or matte makeup look. "As many Korean makeup products focus on enhancing the skin rather than completely covering it, some formulas may feel too sheer if you like a very perfected and high coverage base."

How We Test

To find the best Korean makeup products, I tested a range of base products, blusher pots, cheek and lip tints, mascaras and eye shadow palettes, evaluating each for ease of use, longevity, shade selection, and overall finish. Before selecting, I also tapped the expertise of Korean beauty expert Dr Christine Hall, who regularly uses Korean makeup products and whose opinion I highly rate.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

If there’s one beauty product I’ve become obsessed with over the past few years, it’s lip liner. As someone with naturally thin lips, it's always been the product that makes the biggest difference to my makeup. A well-placed liner can subtly enhance the shape of my lips without looking obvious—I never wear lipstick without one (in fact, I often just wear lip liner), and if you peeked inside my makeup bag, you'd find far more lip liners than anyone reasonably needs.

One of my favourite things about makeup is experimentation, and when it comes to lip products in particular, there is so much room for creativity and customisation. Pair a cool-toned nude liner with a peachy lipstick, and you'll create something entirely different than if you teamed that same lipstick with a warm brown or rosy pink. The possibilities are almost endless, which is why I love experimenting with different combinations depending on my mood, the season, or the rest of my makeup look.

Summer, in particular, calls for a wardrobe of lip pairings. Think fresh pinks, sun-warmed peaches, glossy nudes and vibrant corals that feel effortless rather than overdone. So, after years of testing (and more than a little lip liner collecting), I've rounded up my favourite lipstick and lip liner combinations for the season. I've also enlisted some of my fellow Who What Wear UK beauty team members to share the pairings they reach for on repeat, from everyday neutrals to brighter holiday-ready shades. Whether you're looking for the perfect "your lips but better" duo or something with a little more impact, there's a combination here worth trying.

The Best Summer Lip Liner and Lipstick Combinations

1. Fara Homidi Lip Compact in Nude 1 + Fara Homidi Lip Pencil in Doux

"This duo has completely changed the way I think about nude lips. Rather than creating a flat beige finish, the combination adds subtle dimension while still looking incredibly natural. I use the Lip Pencil in Doux to lightly define and slightly overline my cupid's bow before blending the edges with my fingertip. Then I press Nude 1 from the Lip Compact over the centre of my lips with a lip brush for a soft, diffused effect. The compact's creamy texture almost melts into the lips, while the liner provides just enough structure to make everything look more defined. The result is an expensive-looking, softly sculpted nude lip that feels incredibly modern—and one I know I'll be wearing well beyond summer." — Grace Day, freelance beauty editor

2. Guerlain Contour G Lip Pencil in Le Beige Praline + Dior Addict Lip Glow Oil in Mocha

"I know people tend to steer towards brighter shades in the summer months, but I happen to think that a deeper nude lip combo looks super chic, especially with a tan. This season, I've been gravitating towards Guerlain's Contour G Lip Pencil in the shade Le Beige Praline. I love this pencil as it feels nice and creamy to apply, yet it doesn't budge. Plus, it's very pigmented, so you can build it up depending on what finish you like. I'll be honest, I don't really like wearing lipstick, so instead, I apply the Dior Addict Lip Glow Oil in the shade Mocha over the top. Not only does the brown hue perfectly complement the liner, but the hydrating formula and sparkling finish are a match made in heaven." — Grace Lindsay, deputy beauty editor, Who What Wear UK

3. Summer Fridays Softline Lip Liner in Toffee + Westman Atelier Lip Suede Matte Lipstick in Pique

"It's taken me a long time to find a good lip combo, and after finding that so many liners and lipsticks pull too pink or orangey on my skin, I've learnt that neutral or cool-toned-leaning shades work best for my complexion. Summer Fridays Softline Lip Liner in the shade Toffee is my favourite neutral liner with a cool-toned, pinky-brown hue that glides on and softly sculpts without looking harsh. Then, I like to gently pat on Westman Atelier's Lip Suede Lipstick in shade Pique to the centre of my lips, which results in a soft-focus, blurred lip with a taupey undertone. It's a matte lipstick, but it's so creamy and hydrating that it feels like a lip balm on my lips." — Eleanor Vousden, beauty editor Who What Wear UK

4. Victoria Beckham Beauty Lip Definer in 03 + Hourglass Phantom Blur Balm in Whisper

"If you asked me to choose one lip combination to wear every day, this would probably be it. Victoria Beckham Beauty's Lip Definer in 03 is the perfect cool brown-pink—it adds just enough definition to subtly enhance my naturally thin lips without looking like I'm obviously wearing liner. The formula is creamy enough to glide on effortlessly but sets down so it stays put for hours. I then swipe on Hourglass's Phantom Blur Balm in Whisper, which has the most beautiful soft rosy-nude tone. It smooths over the liner, blurs everything together, and gives my lips that plush, softly diffused finish that looks incredibly polished. It's understated, effortless, and somehow works with every makeup look I wear, whether it's barely-there skin or a full evening face." — Grace Day, freelance beauty editor

5. Rhode Peptide Lip Shape in Spin + Summer Fridays Dream Lip Oil in Warm Beige

To me, nothing beats a brown lip combo, and I haven’t seen shades that go quite as deep as Rhode’s lip shape in a very long time. Available in 14 flattering nude shades, it's a creamy contouring liner that makes my lips look huge without having to overline them too much. The shade Spin is a rich plum brown that doesn’t pull too red, and it blends in beautifully with any lip gloss, balm or oil. My favourite product to pair it with at the moment? Summer Friday’s Dream lip oil in warm beige, of course. A makeup-skincare hybrid that’s packed with a blend of skin-loving ingredients, this product nourishes the lips for long-lasting softness, whilst also providing the overly-glossy, glass-like shine I love. — Brittany Davy, junior writer.

6. Merit Signature Lip Liner in Coupé + Merit Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil in Pointelle

"When I'm in the mood for something glossier, this is the lip combination I reach for every time. Merit’s Signature Lip Liner in Coupé is a beautiful neutral pink-brown that gives my lips just enough definition without ever looking harsh, and I like to softly blend the edges inwards so it almost melts into my natural lip line. I then layer Merit’s Shade Slick Lip Oil in Pointelle over the top, which adds the prettiest sheer wash of cool-toned pink and an incredibly juicy shine without feeling sticky. Together, they create that effortless, healthy-looking lip that feels fresh and clean rather than overdone." — Grace Day, freelance beauty editor

7. Westman Atelier Lip Shape Lip Liner in Je Reve + Westman Atelier Lip Suede Matte Lipstick in Je Reve

"I'm a huge fan of monochromatic lip combinations, and these two products were clearly designed to be worn together. The Je Rêve liner has a beautiful rosy-brown undertone that softly sculpts the lips without looking too sharp, while the matching Lip Suede Matte Lipstick creates the most sophisticated blurred finish. Although it's matte, it never feels dry or flat—instead, it has that velvety texture that makes lips look naturally fuller. I love that the colour sits somewhere between a nude and a muted rose, making it wearable every day while still feeling polished. It's the kind of lip combination I reach for when I want to look put together without having to think too hard about the rest of my makeup." — Grace Day, freelance beauty editor

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

If you’ve ever put on foundation in the morning and felt like you can feel it all day, you’re not alone. That heavy, slightly mask-like sensation is often what puts people off base makeup altogether, especially if you prefer something that looks like skin rather than sitting on top of it. But the answer doesn’t necessarily lie in avoiding foundation entirely—it’s more about how you apply it, and the kind you choose.

Full-coverage formulas have their place, but they’re not always the most versatile option for everyday wear. In fact, one of the most effective ways to achieve a natural, skin-like finish is to start with a lightweight, buildable foundation and apply it in thin, controlled layers. Rather than trying to achieve your desired coverage in one go, this approach allows you to gradually even out the complexion where you need it most—whether that’s around the nose, on areas of redness, or just to subtly blur the skin—whilst still letting your natural texture show through.

The result is a base that looks more like real skin, but better. It moves with your face, feels lighter throughout the day, and is far less likely to settle into fine lines or look cakey by the afternoon. It also gives you far more flexibility: you can keep things sheer for everyday wear, then build up coverage in specific areas for evenings or days when you want a little extra polish.

The key is choosing formulas designed to be layered rather than masked. These foundations tend to have more fluid textures, blend easily with fingers, brushes or sponges, and can be customised depending on your skin's needs that day.

So, instead of reaching for the fullest coverage option in your makeup bag, think of foundation as something you can build, not block out. Ahead, we’ve rounded up the best buildable foundations that let your skin look like skin—just a little more even, smooth, and luminous.

What Should You Look for in a Buildable Foundation?

The key to finding a truly buildable foundation comes down to the formula. A good buildable base should allow you to gradually increase coverage where you need it, without becoming heavy, cakey or obvious on the skin. Celebrity makeup artist Lan Nguyen-Grealis explains that it's “the right formula, texture and amount that allows the makeup to be layered and build up coverage while still looking like skin”. She adds that it should contain “long-lasting ingredients that don’t separate but can stay in its true form” even after multiple layers are applied.

For this reason, lightweight textures tend to work best. Nguyen-Grealis recommends “thin, serum or satin and lightweight formulations” because “they melt instead of sitting on the skin.” These types of foundations are much easier to customise depending on your needs that day, whether you want a sheer wash of coverage or something more perfected for a special occasion.

Buildable foundations are particularly useful if your skin isn’t completely uniform, but you don’t want a full-coverage finish across your entire face. As Nguyen-Grealis explains, they’re ideal for skin that “needs variation of extra coverage especially for acne or pigmentation,” as they allow you to add more product only where it’s needed. The result is a much more natural-looking complexion because, as she says, “several layers are better than one.”

What Is the Best Way to Build Foundation?

When it comes to building foundation, the application technique is just as important as the formula itself. The goal isn’t to apply one thick layer and hope it covers everything—it’s to create a lightweight first layer, then gradually add more coverage where needed. Nguyen-Grealis recommends starting with properly prepped skin, explaining: “I like to ensure skin is prepped fully with a well-cleaned, moisturised base, primed for a smooth base before application.” This creates a smoother canvas and helps the foundation sit evenly throughout the day.

She suggests thinking of your first layer “as a tinted moisturiser first,” using a foundation or stippling brush to apply a light, even finish across the skin. From there, you can assess where you need more coverage and go back in with a firmer foundation brush to build up specific areas. “Stipple or dab using blenders also helps with building more control,” she adds, as pressing the product into the skin rather than sweeping it around helps maintain that natural, skin-like finish.

The foundation itself also makes a difference. Nguyen-Grealis recommends “light and cream foundations” for the most seamless buildable finish, as they “don’t dry or oxidise as much.” She advises avoiding formulas that are more difficult to layer, noting that “mattes, mousse, and powder foundations” don’t tend to offer the same flexibility. The trick is to build slowly—you can always add more coverage, but removing excess product once it has been applied is much harder.

The Best Buildable Foundations

1. Best Overall: Vieve Skin Nova Complexion Balm
2. Best for Dry Skin: Hourglass Veil Hydrating Skin Tint
3. Best for Oily Skin: Makeup By Mario SurrealSkin Foundation
4. Best for Combination Skin: Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Foundation
5. Best for Sensitive Skin: Bare Minerals Complexion Rescue Foundation Stick

1. Vieve Skin Nova Complexion Balm

You don't actually need to layer much of this foundation to get a decent coverage. The balm texture melts into the skin and creates a soft-focus veil rather than any obvious layer of makeup, so it’s ideal if you want to even out tone while still seeing your skin underneath, and it builds beautifully without ever looking heavy or cakey. I especially like it for days when I want a “your skin but smoother” finish rather than full foundation.

2. Hourglass Veil Hydrating Skin Tint

This skin tint is all about comfort and glow. It has a silky, fluid texture that sinks in quickly and leaves skin looking hydrated and luminous rather than shiny. It layers well without clinging to dry patches, making it especially good in colder months or for skin that tends to feel tight throughout the day. Coverage is light to light-medium but very easy to build.

3. Makeup by Mario SurrealSkin Foundation

This is a modern, skin-like foundation that manages to stay fresh without sliding off the face. It has a lightweight, serum-like texture that evens out tone while still allowing skin to look like skin. What stands out most is how well it balances glow and control—it doesn’t lean overly matte or overly dewy, making it especially good for combination-to-oily skin types.

4. Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Foundation

This is a beautifully balanced foundation that adapts well to different textures on different areas of the face. The formula blends effortlessly and can be built from a sheer veil to a more perfected medium finish without ever looking heavy or mask-like. What I really like is how well it wears throughout the day—it stays smooth, doesn’t cling to dry patches and keeps shine in check without looking flat.

5. Bare Minerals Complexion Rescue Luminous Skin Tint

This is a gentle, fuss-free option that feels more like skincare than traditional foundation. The stick format makes it easy to apply exactly where needed, and the formula is designed to be soothing and non-irritating, so it's ideal for skin prone to breakouts and sensitivity. It gives a natural, dewy finish in one layer but builds smoothly for fuller coverage.

6. Victoria Beckham Beauty The Foundation Drops

This is a true skin enhancer rather than a heavy base. The drops can be mixed with skincare or applied directly for a custom level of coverage (my personal preference), making it incredibly versatile. No matter how many layers are applied, the finish is luminous, refined, and very much “expensive skin” looking—polished but never obvious.

7. Max Factor Lasting Performance Foundation

A reliable, long-standing drugstore favourite that delivers dependable coverage at a budget-friendly price. It has a more classic foundation texture than the newer skin tints on this list, but still applies smoothly and evens out the complexion well. It’s especially good if you want something that lasts throughout the day without frequent touch-ups.

8. MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation

A cult classic for a reason (although recently reformulated for improved finish and longevity), this powder foundation delivers impressive coverage while keeping shine firmly under control. It’s buildable in layers and can be used lightly for a soft matte effect or built up for fuller coverage. I find it best used with a light hand to avoid looking too flat, so it can take more time (and layers) to reach your desired finish.

9. Sweed Glass Skin Foundation

This one is all about radiance. The formula gives an immediate glass-skin effect that looks luminous without being glittery or greasy, and it evens out tone while letting skin shine through, making it perfect for anyone who prefers a fresh, dewy base. One of my personal favourites.

10. Merit Beauty The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick

This stick from Merit is one of the simplest foundations to use—swipe, blend, and go. The stick format makes application incredibly intuitive, and it melts into skin with minimal effort. It’s perfect for everyday makeup when you want light coverage without tools or fuss. I often just use it as a concealer to target areas of redness or breakouts, but it's equally as good when layered up for all-over coverage.

11. Dcypher Custom Foundation Drops

This is one of the most inclusive foundation formulas available, designed to be matched to your exact undertone and depth. The drop format allows for full customisation, which is especially useful if you struggle to find a perfect match in traditional ranges. The formula itself is truly serum-like, so blends beautifully and layers without pilling or looking cakey.

How We Tested

I tested each formula over several days of wear, focusing on how they perform when applied in thin layers and built up gradually. I looked closely at finish, longevity, blendability, and how each one interacts with different skin types and textures throughout the day. I also assessed how well they layer over skincare and under makeup, prioritising formulas that enhance the skin rather than mask it.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

To consider the most era-defining beauty aesthetic of the 2020s would leave many in a spin. Over the past six years, beauty microtrends have had us in a collective chokehold. We've seen the rise (and demise) of glass skin, latte makeup, boyfriend blush, skincycling, siren eyes... and so the list of fleeting beauty moments goes on, each with its own name carefully crafted for hashtag greatness. And this seemingly never-ending churn of TikTok-optimised aesthetics has made it hard for any decade-defining trend to stand out.

But when you step back from the #glazeddonutskin, #milkymanicures and #slickedbuns of it all, it's easy to see that most of these mini movements have one very important thing in common: they all feed into the clean-girl aesthetic. Yes, it is somewhat unarguable that the "clean girl", complete with her polished skin, preened hair and minimal approach to makeup, has proved the poster child of the 2020s beauty agenda. But adhering to the sky-high standards of clean-girl minimalism has weighed heavily on us, particularly come summer. Our patience for having to maintain seemingly flawless skin, flyaway-free hair and precisely positioned pigment is wearing thin. This summer, the clean girl's reign as we know it is over.

For summer 2026, much of the pared-back blueprint remains—glowing skin, brushed brows and flushed cheeks are still here—but the looks themselves champion the "imperfect". Skin gleams with gloss, lashes have impact, cheeks are dusted with red-hued blush to mimic sun-kissing and hair is left to humidity's devices to lean into the overarching sense of summer nonchalance. This summer, beauty looks lived-in.

For inspiration, makeup artist Marie Bruce shows us how it's done with Givenchy Beauty.

Buttery cream blushers are traded in for punchy powders in deep, sun-kissed hues to create a truly convincing swathe of flush. Skin is prepped with a moisturising base to leave complexions sheeny and dewy (a broad-spectrum SPF lotion works wonderfully). If coverage is your MO, opt for a serum-based foundation that puts glow first.

The key to this look is all in the blush placement. Going against the current status quo of blusher dotted onto the high points of the cheekbones and blended up into the hairline, the key to the ultimate sun stripe is keeping pigment contained to the centre third of the face. A fluffy brush drapes rich-toned blusher from the tops of the cheekbones, over the apples of the cheeks and across the bridge of the nose.

Finish up by brushing brows through for a soft, fluffy finish, curling lashes and patting a soft-focus balm into the lips for a low-maintenance summer look that gets better as the day goes on.

The beauty of the lived-in summer makeup trend is that it doesn't sit exclusively in the realms of no-makeup makeup. Maximalist looks champion gilded finishes, blacker-than-black lashes, silky, candlelit skin and statement lips.

For eyes, look towards shimmering bronze, long-wear pigments that apply like butter and set like steel. In the evening, apply matte-finish browns into the crease for a subtle, smokey finish. Create volume in lashes with deep-black mascara wiggled into lash roots and dragged up through the tips. Opting for a formula with 24-hour wear is sure to lower the risk of heat-induced smudging.

A candle-lit finish that doesn't scupper glow is achieved with high-performance powders applied lightly over skincare-infused foundation. Keep powder placement to the outer edges of the face and along the T-zone so that the skin's natural glow still shines through where it matters most.

No summer beauty look is complete without gloss, and new-gen formulas create a wet-look finish that floods lips with non-tacky moisture. Go for tinted hues that deliver a just-bitten finish. Pair with dewy skin and very little else for a day-to-day look that allows for reapplication after reapplication.

The pièce de résistance to any lived-in summer makeup look? A subtly clumped lash (achieved by layering mascara and allowing it to dry between coats) with a soft wash of shimmer over the lids that twinkles under warm sunlight.

Whilst blush might sit at the heart of any clean-girl beauty look, it's bronzer that makes lived-in beauty looks sing. Look to buildable formulas that contain glow-boosting pigments and apply liberally into the hairline, underneath the tops of the cheekbones, below the chin, down the neck and over the décolleté, before finishing off with a light dusting across the bridge of the nose.

For a low-fuss, maximalist take on bronze, lids can be kept bare to instead draw focus to the lips. Opt for deep hues in long-lasting matte finishes for a statement look that won't budge.

Shop the Looks

Photographer: Arved
Editor-in-Chief: Jane McFarland
Beauty Director: Shannon Lawlor
Makeup Artist: Marie Bruce using Givenchy Beauty
Hairtylist: Laura Swaine using Bumble and bumble and Babyliss Pro
Manicurist: Ami Streets using Kure Bazaar
Model: Anna Littlefield at Select Model Management
Stylist: Remy Farrell
Makeup Assistant: Hirono Sakamoto
Hair Assistant: Makoto Hyashi
Photography Assistant: Andreas Parper

Holiday packing has always been an exercise in clever editing, but nowhere is this more evident than in a beauty editor's hand luggage. When your job is to test the industry's newest beauty product launches and discover and recommend the formulas that are genuinely worth the hype, every product that makes it into your carry-on has more than earned its place, and this is really evident when you see those essentials laid out in an airport security tray, stripped back to the few products that are considered truly indispensable. From the hydrating skincare that combats cabin air at 34,000ft to the summer fragrance that will recall memories of the trip once we're home (a perfume postcard, if you will).

So, what will you find in a beauty editor's carry-on? I asked our beauty team to unzip their bags and reveal the products that they will never travel without. You'll find clever travel-sized miniatures, multipurpose products that save on space and formulas designed to work hard in the sun. Consider this your curated packing list of beauty products that multitask, travel effortlessly and deliver a sense of familiarity and joy, wherever in the world you happen to be. Scroll on to peek inside the airport security trays of our discerning beauty team, and feel free to take inspiration for your own ultimate carry-on edit.

Shannon Lawlor, Beauty Director

"If I’m being honest, as a beauty director who spends a lot of time discovering the best beauty products the world has to offer, my feet are rarely on the ground. It means that, over the years, I’ve become a total pro at packing my hand-luggage-only essentials, so summer-holiday packing isn’t too much of a stress for me. These are the products set to make it into my bag for every single trip I’ve got planned this summer." — Shannon

Shop Shannon's Summer Beauty Products:

Eleanor Vousden, Beauty Editor

"I’ve got a summer full of city breaks this year, and I like my carry-on to feature a tight edit of minimalist yet hardworking everyday essentials that won’t take up too much space in my case or my handbag when I'm sightseeing. I love picking up local beauty finds whenever I travel, so I always make sure I have extra space for new discoveries. too. But for the most part, you'll find me packing multi-use products and minis of my favourites that are functional but sleek—I'm a total magpie for a beautiful beauty product!" — Eleanor

Shop Eleanor's Summer Beauty Products:

Grace Lindsay, Deputy Beauty Editor

"When it comes to summer beauty, I don’t mess around. The minute the sun comes out, you’ll find me spritzing my favourite holiday perfumes, applying SPF like there’s no tomorrow and slathering on the best cream bronzers to get that sought-after glow. So, it’s no surprise that my airport beauty essentials reflect this. I have a couple of trips coming up, and this is exactly what I’m packing in my carry-on." — Grace

Shop Grace's Summer Beauty Products:

Brittany Davy, Junior Writer

"As someone who runs naturally warm and therefore very much feels the heat, in summer, I’m always on the hunt for the most scaled-back makeup routine that doesn't feel overly complicated or leave me a sweaty mess at the end of the day, and this is even more true when I’m on holiday. Whether I’m on the plane, sitting by the pool or exploring a new city, my go-to travel products very much fall into the low-effort, high-reward category; they make getting ready quick and simple whilst still giving me that holiday-like glow I yearn for." — Brittany

Shop Brittany's Summer Beauty Products:

Photographer: Lucy Robinson for Who What Wear UK
Prop Stylist: Chris Hobbs
Beauty Editor: Eleanor Vousden
Fashion Editor: Remy Farrell

It's no secret that Hourglass is one of my all-time favourite makeup brands of all time. Despite having a full beauty cupboard full of makeup products at my disposal, when you look at the products that have made it into my everyday makeup at home, Hourglass is the MVP of my makeup bag. The Phantom Glossy Balms? A modern icon. The Vanish Airbrush Concealer? No other concealer compares. You get the idea: anything Hourglass launches, I just know it's going to be good.

So, when I heard that Hourglass was launching the Phantom Blur Balms (£36), a blurring, matte version of the original Phantom Glossy Balms, I could barely contain my excitement.

Hourglass Phantom Blur Balms

The Formula

If you've been trying to recreate that blurred lip look popularised by celebrity makeup artist Nina Park, then you can put your lip liners down. This blurring balm delivers a blurred, soft-focus lip in one swipe. What's genius about it is that it has the soft-matte finish that mimics the natural texture of your lips, yet it feels exactly like a hydrating lip balm on the lips. It's hydrating and comfortable to wear, with a flexible slip when you smack your lips—unlike many matte lipsticks that cling and feel drying to wear.

The beauty of them is that they can be applied lightly for a wash of colour, layered up for more intensity or paired with your lip liner if you want a more defined look.

The Shades

I have two shades of the Phantom Blur Balms (there are currently five very wearable, natural-looking shades in the edit), and they've both taken up permanent residencies in my makeup bag and my handbag. Echo, a soft, neutral pink, has been my everyday go-to, whereas Whisper has a pinky mauve tone that I've been leaning towards more so for summer. I'll definitely be picking up some of the deeper shades for next season. Honestly? I can't imagine my makeup bag without these since trying them.

Echo

Whisper

Shop the Shades:

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

I've spent the best part of my beauty career perfecting my "no makeup" makeup look, and if I'm being honest, more often than not, this doesn't involve mascara. I've tried some of the best mascaras out there, from affordable mascaras to tubing formulas and even mascaras for sensitive eyes, but I find that they make my makeup look a little too "done". Well, that was the case until I discovered a small collection of natural-looking mascaras that took my "no makeup" makeup game to the next level.

It seems that brands are becoming more aware that some of us want fluttery, natural-looking lashes for everyday. Don't get me wrong, I love a volumising mascara from time to time, but when I'm getting ready for work in the morning, I want something that enhances my look, like a "your lashes but better" finish, you know?

So, I made it my mission to test some of the best formulas that promised a natural-looking finish, and these are the six mascaras that delivered. It's a small edit, but I can confirm that every single formula truly deserves a place on this list. Keep on scrolling for my top natural-looking mascaras on the market...

The Best Natural-Looking Mascaras, Tried & Tested

• Best Overall Mascara: Merit Clean Lash Mascara, £24
• Best Brown Mascara: Lisa Eldridge Kitten Lash Mascara, £29
• Best Affordable Mascara: L'Oréal Paris Paradise Mascara, £13
• Best Mascara for a Fluttery Effect: Refy Lash Sculpt, £22
• Best Tubing Mascara: Blink Brow Bar Lash Lift Tubing Mascara, £26

1. Merit Clean Lash Mascara

This Merit Beauty formula is one of my most-used mascaras, as it's so great for daily wear. Not only does it look chic, but the tubing mascara lengthens and lifts every lash without budging. Although the brush isn't small, it is great at coating and separating each lash for that natural, fluttery look that I love so much. Plus, it can easily be removed with just a bit of warm water.

2. Lisa Eldridge Kitten Lash Mascara

I love using a brown mascara for a "no makeup" makeup look, as it's just that little bit softer. This one from Lisa Eldridge is my favourite, as the warm brown hue looks simply stunning. The formula itself delivers a featherlight finish for a natural, almost sultry result, but you could also build it up a bit if you wanted to. It's a little more expensive than others on the market, but trust me, it's totally worth it.

3. L'Oréal Paris Paradise Mascara

We all know that L'Oréal mascaras are some of the best on the high street, and this is my personal favourite for an everyday look. Don't be afraid that it has castor oil in it. Trust me, it doesn't smudge and never feels greasy. The formula is actually a great option for sensitive eyes. The brush is ideal for lengthening and defining the lashes, and the fluttery effect always earns me compliments.

4. Refy Lash Sculpt

This Refy mascara broke the internet when it launched thanks to the unique wand. However, it truly is amazing at creating a natural-lash effect. It can take a little while to get used to applying it, but the curved shape means that the wand coats every single lash with not a single clump in sight. It lengthens, separates and lifts the lashes, awakening the whole eye area whilst making it look as if you're barely wearing any mascara. Genius.

5. Blink Brow Bar Lash Lift Tubing Mascara

Tubing mascaras are great as they don't smudge, but are so easy to remove. One of my favourites for a natural lash look is this one from Blink Brow Bar. It comes in two shades and really lifts and lengthens the lashes whilst keeping them looking soft and fluttery. It's the sort of mascara that will have people second-guessing whether you've had a lash lift or if your natural lashes are just that good. Don't worry, your secret is safe with me.

6. Makeup By Mario Master Mascara

I keep this mascara in my makeup bag at all times. The reason why? One coat gives a super natural, soft finish, but, if suddenly you're heading out in the evening and want a more statement makeup look, it's easily buildable for a false-lash effect. It's just a great all-rounder that I know I can rely on daily. Plus, it doesn't clump and never smudges. 10/10.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

We all have very different opinions about what makes the perfect foundation, whether you prefer a sheer skin tint or something high-coverage, or a dewy or matte finish. And for me, as someone with a deeper skin tone, making sure the formula I opt for has a wide shade range is at the top of my criteria for what makes a truly good foundation.

I mean, as a beauty writer, I’ve tested a lot of different formulas, all claiming to have amazing coverage and longevity. However, finding a base product with an extensive shade range that won’t leave me looking ashy has been a challenge over the years. But never fear, as I come bearing good news—2026’s foundation selection has more choices than ever for those of us with dark skin. And whether you have dry or oily skin, are looking for an affordable buy or planning to splurge that bit of extra cash on a luxury formula, I've endured years of testing, swatching, and comparing the most popular foundations so that you don’t have to.

Keep scrolling below; I’ve rounded up the nine best foundations to shop in 2026, all of which come approved by a beauty writer with dark skin.

The Best Foundations for Dark Skin

• Best Overall: Fenty Soft'lit Naturally Luminous Foundation, £35
• Best Luxury: Gucci Éternité De Beauté Spf15 Foundation, £51
• Best Affordable: L'Oréal Paris True Match Liquid Foundation, £12
• Best for Dry Skin: Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Foundation, £54
• Best for Oily Skin: Dior Forever Skin Wear Foundation, £52

The 9 Best Foundations for Dark Skin, According to a Beauty Writer

1. Fenty Beauty Soft'lit Naturally Luminous Longwear Foundation

2. Gucci Éternité De Beauté Spf15 Foundation

3. L'Oréal Paris True Match Liquid Foundation

4. Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Foundation

4. Dior Forever Skin Wear Foundation

5. Pat McGrath Labs Skin Fetish Sublime Perfection Foundation

6. Clinique Even Better™ Makeup SPF15 Foundation

7. Refy Skin Base Skin Tint

8. ILIA Beauty Skin Rewind Complexion Stick

9. MAC Cosmetics Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation

It's no secret that makeup trends come and go, but whilst everyone has been raving about matte finishes making a comeback, I'm a dewy makeup girl through and through, and I don't think this will ever change. However, it's important to explain what I mean by this. When I say I'm a fan of dewy makeup, I don't mean shiny finishes, bold highlighters or shimmery products. What I mean is that naturally radiant, lit-from-within glow that makes it look like I drink 2 litres of water and a green juice every single day (I'm more of a coffee-and-Diet Coke kinda gal, but bear with me on this).

As a makeup artist and beauty editor, I've tried plenty of products over the years, from illuminating primers, glowy foundations, cream blushes and more, and I believe I've created the ultimate edit of products that require minimal effort but deliver maximum results when it comes to a naturally dewy makeup look.

Below, you'll find my tried-and-tested edit of the best dewy makeup products, from old classics to brand-new launches. Look in my makeup bag, and you'll find every single product mentioned in there, so you know that I really do wear them daily. What are you waiting for? Your juiciest skin yet is just a scroll away...

The Best Dewy Makeup Products, Tried & Tested

1. Vieve Skin Nova

I like to start all my makeup looks with a primer (I have oily skin, so it's a necessity if I want my makeup to last past lunch), and I've used this one from Vieve for as long as I can remember. In my opinion, it's the perfect primer for that lit-from-within look. It's not overly shimmery or glittery, but it adds a subtle radiance whilst hydrating and prepping the skin for your foundation of choice. It contains light-reflecting pigments for a radiant finish, and whilst most primers can disappear under the rest of your makeup, I always find that the glowy finish shines through.

2. Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter

You didn't think I'd write about glowy makeup looks without including Charlotte Tilbury's Hollywood Flawless Filter, did you? This product is an icon, and for good reason. I wear it either alone or under foundation for a radiant, healthy-looking complexion that has everyone asking why I look so well. You can even use it on top of your makeup as a highlighter, but I haven't tried it myself yet. As the name suggests, it has this beautifully blurring effect that gives your TikTok filter a run for its money, whilst also adding a luminous finish. I simply can't imagine my makeup bag without it.

3. Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation

I've tried plenty of dewy foundations in my time, and whilst there are lots I could list as favourites, in my opinion, the Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation is the best of all time. Why, I hear you ask? Because it's naturally dewy, rather than overly glowy like other formulations I've tried. It's the kind of foundation that gives you your best skin yet, whilst making it look as if you're not even trying, you know? The medium coverage, blurring finish and natural radiance blow me away every single time I wear it.

4. Rationale The Brilliance Tinted Serum SPF50+

Ok, I know this product is crazy expensive, but it's honestly one of the best things I've ever put on my face. And I don't say that lightly. I've been wearing it every single day this summer, and I don't plan on stopping anytime soon. The formula is so lightweight (you literally don't feel as if you're wearing anything on your skin) and glides on like butter. Whilst it doesn't offer much coverage (I always go in with concealer afterwards), it does offer a smooth, even, illuminating finish alongside SPF50+. The finish is so good that I might actually shed a tear when I run out of this stuff.

5. Refy Water Bronzer

To me, looking bronzed is just as important as looking dewy, and if a product can achieve both results, you best believe I'm not letting it out of my sight. When I first tried Refy's new Water Bronzer, I'll admit, the formula confused me. However, now I've got the hang of it, I totally get the hype. As you can probably guess, the bronzer is water-based, so it immediately feels hydrating and weightless on the skin. Plus, it delivers a dewy wash of warmth that would have anyone thinking I've just come back from the South of France.

6. Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dewy Flush

If you want a dewy makeup look, I'd probably advise avoiding a powder blush and opting for a liquid or cream formula instead. My favourite liquid blush for a dewy finish is this number from Glow Recipe. The hydrating, glowy formula adds an amazing plumping effect to the cheeks alongside a sheer wash of colour that you could definitely build upon if desired. It's like naturally flushed cheeks in a bottle.

7. Dior Backstage Rosy Glow Stick

If a cream blush is more your thing, you have to try this one from Dior. It's the easiest (and chicest) makeup product to use. All you do is swipe it on, blend with your fingertips and lo and behold, you have a dewy pop of colour that will have you questioning what you ever did without it. The hydrating, creamy texture is to die for, and whilst there are lots of fun shades available, the great thing is that each one is powered by pH technology to create a custom finish. Oh, and the packaging is really, really cute.

8. Victoria Beckham Beauty Reflect Highlighter Stick

Last but not least, the Victoria Beckham Beauty Reflect Highlighter Stick. I've done a whole feature on this product as it's that good. It delivers glass-like skin in an instant, in an easy-to-use, creamy stick that you can simply swipe on and go. No glitter, no obvious shimmer, just dewy, juicy skin that shines like never before. I'd bathe in this stuff if I could.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Trending makeup products come and go, and I'd be a liar if I said I didn’t indulge in them now and again; however, there’s something about a simple and refined makeup routine that leaves me feeling polished and put-together every time. And whilst there seems to be a new TikTok-viral blush every other day, the honest truth is that not all blushers are created equal. Whilst I typically find powder formulas way too drying on my eczema-prone skin, cream and liquid blushes are often formulated with a white base, making my deeper skin tone appear ashy and washed out. However, recently, I’ve noticed one particular product go viral on social media, and believe me when I tell you it’s already earned a place in my cosmetics bag forever. Enter the cheek stain.

What Is a Cheek Stain?

A cheek stain is a sheer and watery but highly pigmented formula that gives your face a natural flush. Unlike traditional cream and powder formulas, it contains no white base pigment, allowing it to work for a wider range of skin tones without looking ashy.

Because it stains the skin, this product is well-loved for its staying power, with many lasting up to 12 hours after application. Most cheek stains can also be used on the lips, making it easy to create a cohesive makeup look and practical to take on holiday as a multi-use everyday staple.

What Are the Benefits of a Cheek Stain?

• Long-lasting - Because they stain the cheeks instead of simply sitting on top of the skin, cheek stains last longer throughout the day without the need to reapply.

• Smudge and transfer-proof - Because the formula sinks into the skin and dries down quickly, there is less chance of transfer onto clothes.

• Weightless - Unlike heavier cream or powder formulas, cheek stains feel undetectable on the skin, allowing for comfortable everyday wear.

• Buildable - Cheek stains can be sheered out if you prefer a more subtle look, or built up for a more dramatic effect.

• Multi-purpose - Cheek stains often double up as lip tints, allowing you to create a more cohesive look, as well as pack less with you for trips away from home.

The Best Cheek Stains, According to a Beauty Writer

• Best Overall Cheek Stain - By Terry Tea to Tan Stain (£26)
• Best Luxury Cheek Stain - Victoria Beckham Beauty Colour Wash Tint (£44)
• Best Affordable Cheek Stain - e.l.f. Cosmetics Sheer for It Blush Tint (£6)
• Best Cheek Stain for Dry Skin - Ere Perez Beetroot Tint (£28)
• Best Cheek Stain for Oily Skin - Benefit Benetint Stain (£23)
• Best High-Pigment Cheek Stain - Milk Makeup Cooling Water Tint (£23)
• Best Long-Lasting Cheek Stain - Wonderskin Wonder Blading Stain (£20)

The Best Cheek Stains, According to a Beauty Writer

1. By Terry Tea to Tan Lip & Cheek Stain

2. Victoria Beckham Beauty Colour Wash Blush Water Tint

3. e.l.f. Cosmetics Sheer for It Blush Tint

4. Ere Perez Beetroot Cheek & Lip Tint

5. Benefit Benetint Lip and Cheek Stain

6. Milk Makeup Cooling Water Jelly Tint

7. Wonderskin Wonder Blading All-Day Blush Stain

How I Tested

To bring you the best cheek stains, I evaluated each formula based on its ability to blend seamlessly into my skin, how long it lasts throughout the day, and how transfer-proof it is.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

As a beauty editor, I've tried several aesthetic treatments and facials over my decade of working in the industry. From Botox to lymphatic drainage, I'm a moth to a flame for any treatments that promise to lift and sculpt. So, when I came out of my last treatment review and immediately texted my group chat to explain how it had just transformed my whole face in just half an hour, you might assume that I'd just left an aesthetics clinic. However, it was, in fact, after a brow mapping treatment with one of London's most sought-after brow artists, Hollie Parkes. Scroll on for what you need to know about brow mapping and how it single-handedly transformed my eyebrows.

What Is Brow Mapping?

Brow mapping is an expert technique used by brow artists to find the best shape for your eyebrows. Drawing upon the principles of the golden ratio, it helps to determine where your brows should start and finish, as well as the placement of your arch, to best suit your facial features.

It's a kind of brow architecture that is an exact science and requires a good eye; however, Parkes tells me that no two appointments are the same, and she'll tailor the brows differently from client to client. "I'm taking into consideration the person's natural hair growth and their features, but I take the rules with a pinch of salt whilst designing something that's going to really suit that person's face," she says.

My Brow Mapping Experience

Upon walking into Parkes' treatment room, she carefully assessed my eyebrows and asked if I had a favourite brow. She tells me that most people often do, and so brow mapping helps to achieve symmetry on both sides. I've always preferred the shape of my right eyebrow, and I overplucked my left one as a teenager (and it also grows in a different way from my right side), so I've struggled to get a balance between the two of them, even with the best brow pencils and eyebrow gels, and even trying brow lamination in the past, too.

The treatment began with Parkes cleansing the area before carefully mapping out my eyebrows whilst I lay down. Using a ruler, she meticulously measured and made markings from the front through to the tail of the brows. I then sat upright, and she assessed them again to ensure symmetry. From there, it became clear exactly where I needed to fill in my brows (no surprise, it was the gap on my left arch where I'd over-plucked).

From there, she threaded any brow hairs outside of the markings and then carefully trimmed my brow hairs with meticulous precision. Lastly, she filled in any sparse areas with a micro-fine brow pencil and set my brows in place with a brow gel. Being shown exactly how to fill your brows in was enlightening in itself, and I felt better informed about exactly where I needed to place my brow pencil strokes at home. As Parkes tells me during our appointment, it's worthwhile having an expert pair of eyes on your eyebrows if you're struggling with any asymmetry. It's also a great starting place if you're going on a brow-shaping journey, or wanting to explore treatments such as microblading to create your ideal brow shape.

Before and After

And when Parkes handed me the mirror, my jaw dropped. I had never seen my eyebrows look more symmetrical, and I couldn't believe that my brows could look this good. Not only that, but having my brow mapping and styling by Parkes had totally opened up my eyes, and gave me a refreshed and sculpted appearance I've never been able to achieve from tweezing at home. It's said that brows should be sisters, not twins, and looking back on photos, my brows didn't even know one another prior to my treatment. But since my brow mapping experience, they've never looked better, and the compliments on my eyebrows have been rolling in ever since. Parkes also gave me some great brow product recommendations from her brow kit below.

Shop Brow Products:

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Out of all the makeup brands out there, Merit Beauty is at the top of my list. Its minimalistic and effortless approach to beauty (not to mention its extremely chic packaging) makes it a total staple in mine and my fellow beauty editors' makeup bags. I'm already a huge fan of Merit Clean Lash (£24), the brand's very first mascara. So when I heard that Merit was launching a new volumising mascara, Clean Volume (£24), my interest was immediately piqued. I've been testing the new mascara over the past couple of weeks, so scroll on for my thoughts on whether it deserves a spot in your makeup bag.

Merit Clean Volume Mascara

Clean Volume is a tubing mascara designed to volumise lashes without clumping. Whilst many volumising mascaras feature a large wand with long bristles, Clean Volume has a notably more nimble, flexible comb wand. As someone with deep-set, hooded eyes, this is a total game-changer, as so many bulky wands ultimately transfer product onto my lids or under my eyes. However, it doesn't compromise on volume. This small comb wand, however, catches every lash and deposits just the right amount of product as you sweep it through, helping to give you defined yet full lashes and plenty of length, too. No spidery lashes here.

The tubing formula means that not only does it withstand flaking, smudging or crumbling throughout the day, but it removes effortlessly with just warm water—it just slides off your lashes between your fingertips.

Before and After

As you can see, this mascara delivers on its promises of volumising, without looking heavy or spidery. This is just with one coat, but if you're after a more dramatic effect, it's easily layered up for more intensity without turning clumpy. I like to curl my lashes prior to applying my mascara, and if you have short or straight lashes, I'd recommend not skipping this step.

Clean Lash vs Clean Volume

If you're stuck between which formula to go for, or want to know if you need Clean Volume in your makeup bag too, there are a few key differences to know. Clean Lash delivers a fluttery, natural-looking look, and features a classic bristled wand that gives a feathery-looking flutter. IMO, it's the perfect everyday mascara.

Clean Volume, on the other hand, delivers a more defined yet volumised look. Think more sleek and spiky in the best way. The wand is also flexible in comparison and features tiny bristles that are small yet mighty at delivering the pigment to your lashes. Whichever one you go for, you now have the option of black or brown in each.

Personally, I can justify having both in my makeup bag. Clean Lash remains my favourite everyday mascara, but come evenings when I want a bolder eye look, I'll definitely be switching to Clean Volume for more drama.

My Verdict

Having now tested Clean Volume after the past couple of weeks, I have to say I'm impressed. I'm usually not one for volumising mascara formulas (I personally favour lengthening and curling mascaras), however, Merit Beauty's innovative brush has converted me. It makes it easy to get fuller lashes without running the risk of overloading with too much product, and I also love how long and defined it leaves my lashes, too. It feels light and flexible on my lashes, without feeling heavy like some mascaras do. Oh, and it's a total dream to remove at the end of the day; it just melts away in the shower. If you're in the market for a new mascara that delivers on volume, then I'd highly recommend it.

Shop Clean Volume:

Shop Clean Lash:

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

I'm a qualified makeup artist and beauty editor, and even I find myself standing in Boots for hours on end, trying out all the blushers and lipsticks, not really knowing which shade suits me the best. I know I'm not alone in this, as my friends are always telling me they have the same problem. Although I could do some research and find out which shades I should choose, I think I've found an easier solution. Say hello to pH makeup.

Lately, more and more brands have been launching pH makeup formulas that react with your skin to create a customised finish. I've been busy testing some of the best pH makeup products on the market, and I also spoke to an expert makeup artist to learn more about why you might want to add pH makeup to your everyday routine. Keep on scrolling to find out more...

Deputy beauty editor Grace Lindsay is wearing the Wonderskin pHlush Stick and the HAUS Labs PhD Hybrid Lip Oil.

What Is pH Makeup, and How Does It Work?

"The way [that pH makeup] works is that the formula reacts when it comes into contact with moisture on your skin or lips, creating a beautiful rosy flush or lip stain that adapts slightly to the person wearing it," explains Naima Bremer, global artistry ambassador for Fenty Beauty. "This gives a fresh, natural-looking result that feels personal."

"One of the things I love most about pH makeup is how easy and approachable it makes beauty. Not everyone wants to spend hours figuring out undertones or standing in front of a display trying to choose between ten different shades. PH products are great because they take away the guesswork and create that healthy, natural-looking flush that works beautifully for everyday wear."

The Best pH Makeup Products, Tried & Tested

1. Dior Backstage Rosy Glow Stick

If you are looking for a natural, everyday blush, you cannot go wrong with this cream stick from Dior. Since getting my hands on it, I have actually worn it every single day, as it looks amazing and is so easy to apply. There are 13 shades available, but each formula reacts to the skin's pH, taking on either a cool pink or warm coral undertone. I wear the shade Rosewood, which comes up as a slightly flushed, pink hue on my cheeks, perfect for that "no makeup" makeup look. Oh, and the dewy finish is to die for.

2. Fenty Beauty Match Stix Colour Adaptive Cheek & Lip Stick

If you want a more statement makeup look, Fenty Beauty is where it's at. I love using this stick to add a real pop of colour to my cheeks or lips. It has a really cooling, almost jelly-like texture that adds a gorgeous sheen to the skin, and it features colour shift technology to create a customised rosy glow. I think I'll be reaching for this the entire summer.

3. Wonderskin pHlush Stick

Another multi-use stick I can't get enough of is the Wonderskin pHlush Stick. Less jelly-like and more creamy than the option above, this stick can be used on the lips and cheeks, although, because of the larger applicator, I personally find it easier to use as a blush. It features pH-adjusting pigment technology to deliver a custom flush to the cheeks that looks naturally beautiful every single time. What I love about this formula is that it also contains jojoba, castor, and sunflower seed oils, shea butter and niacinamide, so it makes your cheeks look so plump and juicy.

4. HAUS Labs PhD Hybrid Lip Oil

If you're after a specific lip product, let me introduce you to the HAUS Labs PhD Hybrid Lip Oil. I'm a big fan of lip oils, and this has quickly become a new favourite. The texture is perfect. Not greasy, but super hydrating with a subtle sheen. Plus, the tinted formula transforms into a custom colour when applied, creating that "your lips but better" finish that can be so hard to achieve. I have literally *no notes*.

5. Milk Makeup Cooling Water Jelly Tint

You've probably seen this product all over your TikTok feed, and for good reason. The viral "jelly" blush delivers such an impressive wash of colour to the cheeks; I always get asked what blush I'm wearing whenever I use it. I tend to reach for this in summer as the cooling jelly formula is so refreshing to apply. It is a stain, so I would recommend blending it in rather quickly, but the good thing is it lasts all day. The shades look different on everyone thanks to the pH technology, but what's consistent is the stunning, watercolour-like finish that it gives.

6. Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Blush Balm Lip Tint

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Amazon Prime Day 2026 has arrived, and as Who What Wear UK's beauty editor, I've been scrolling through the sale to find the very best beauty deals. You see, Prime Day can feel a bit overwhelming, especially with the sheer amount of products and deals to choose from, so I only like to recommend the beauty products that are genuinely worth it. Whenever the Amazon Prime Day sale rolls around, friends and family often message me with beauty deals to ask whether it's worth it. And most of the time, I'm telling them to take things out of their baskets. I know how easy it is to be swept up by a shiny sale price, only to be left disappointed when you're left with a dud and have wasted your money.

So, for Amazon Prime Day 2026, I'm keeping my beauty deals list succinct. Don't get me wrong, there are tonnes of beauty deals to explore, but I'm only pulling out the ones that have actually impressed me and are worthy of your attention. I've tried each and every product first-hand, and I was thrilled to see that some of my all-time favourite beauty tools, LED masks and hair tools are on sale this time. What I love about Amazon Prime Day beauty deals is that it's the perfect time to either invest in that hair tool you've had your eyes on, or stock up on your everyday favourites (honestly, I always use Amazon Prime Day sales to stock up on my unsexy beauty products—think hypochlorous acid spray and Footner exfoliating socks).

Before you get swept up in the endless amounts of beauty deals on sale, scroll ahead to see my round-up of the beauty products which I think are genuinely worth your money (and if it's not on the list, it didn't make the cut, sorry!).

Amazon Prime Day Beauty Deals 2026

• Best LED Mask Deal: Shark Cryoglow LED Mask
• Best Hair Deal: Glaze Supergloss Hair Gloss
• Best Skincare Deal: Medicube Zero Pore Pads Mild 2.0
• Best Makeup Deal: Lancôme Lash Idôle Volumising Mascara
• Best Nails Deal: OPI Repair Mode
• Best Body Deal: Philips Lumea 7000 Series, IPL Hair Removal Device
• Best Hair Tool Deal: Dyson Dyson Airwrap I.d.™ Multi-Styler and Dryer

1. Glaze Supergloss

2. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Spf 50+ PA++++ Rice + B5

3. Lancôme Lash Idôle Volumising Mascara

4. Shark Cryoglow LED Face Mask With Under-Eye Cooling

5. Medicube Zero Pore Pads Mild 2.0

6. Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray

7. Shark ChillPill Fan

8. OPI Repair Mode

9. Dyson Dyson Airwrap I.d.™ Multi-Styler and Dryer

10. L'Oreal Paris Glass Skin Hydrogel Glow Masks

11. Philips Lumea 7000 Series, IPL Hair Removal Device

12. Essie Gel Couture Nail Top Coat

When Is the Amazon Prime Day Sale?

Amazon Prime Day 2026 runs from 23 June to 26 June, making it a four-day event rather than the traditional two-day sale.

What beauty products are usually discounted during Amazon Prime Day?

Amazon Prime Day typically includes discounts across skincare, makeup, haircare, beauty tools and wellness products. Previous sales have featured savings on everything from LED masks and hair dryers to bestselling serums, cleansers and SPF formulas.

Is the Amazon Prime a good time to buy beauty tools?

Yes—Prime Day is often one of the best times to save on beauty products that rarely go on sale. It's particularly useful for stocking up on everyday essentials, replacing beauty tools or investing in higher-priced skincare and haircare products at a reduced cost.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Victoria Magrath is a Who What Wear UK editor-in-residence and founder of byfrow Beauty, a premium brand rooted in multi-use products designed to "enhance your everyday". One of the UK’s most established luxury creators, she is known for her expertise across beauty, fashion, travel and refined living, with over 12 years of experience working with leading global brands.

If my own excitement for summer in Europe is anything to go by, the European tourist board must be rubbing its hands together in delight. Whilst Americans are headed over to the Med for their summer trips and screaming "Euro summer!" from their yachts, we in the UK are packing away our rain macs and piling 10 bikinis into our suitcases, ready to head to Portofino or somewhere equally as heavenly.

I’m sure that many of you have a holiday group chat with your friends to plan your trip, or you've at least Googled places to visit in Europe for the most sunshine at the best price. Either way, I get it: European holidays are the very best, in my opinion. They’re within a few hours' flying time from the UK, they almost guarantee sunshine and the list of places to visit only seems to grow every year. For me, it's usually Greece or Italy, but anywhere with sunshine, a view and some quiet is high on my list.

Also on my list is what to pack for said "Euro summer". Bikinis, co-ords, sandals and sunglasses are ready to go, but what about beauty products? Here are the six items I’m not leaving the country without this year.

Victoria Magrath's 6 Summer Beauty Essentials

1. Clé de Peau Beauté Exclusive UV Protective Cream SPF 50

2. Larry King Haircare Ride or Die Texture Spray

3. byfrow Pigment Pencils and Sharpener

4. Victoria Beckham Colour Wash Bronze Water Tint

5. Jo Malone London Beach Blossom Cologne

6. Victoria’s Secret Bombshell Bronze Body Oil

Eyebrows have the power to completely transform the face. They frame our eyes, create balance and can make our facial features appear more lifted and defined. But much like our skin and hair, our brows naturally change as we get older, which means the products that worked perfectly in our twenties and thirties, from brow pencils to brow gels, may not necessarily deliver the same results by the time we reach our fifties.

"As we age, eyebrows usually go through a few natural changes—both in the hairs themselves and the skin underneath," explains makeup artist and founder of Wolfie Cosmetics, Lucy Hart. "Hair follicles slow down growth over time, so hairs grow back more slowly and sometimes stop growing altogether, resulting in brows appearing thinner." It's not just density that changes, either. Hart notes that brow hairs can become coarser, wirier and more unruly, while colour can fade as brows gradually turn grey, white or more muted. "This can make them look sparser, even if the same amount of hair is there," she says.

For many women, years of over-plucking may also start to show. "People who over-tweezed when they were younger often find those follicles don't fully recover with age," says Hart. Hormonal changes can also play a significant role. "Menopause, thyroid changes, stress and general hormone fluctuations can all contribute to brow thinning," she adds.

The good news is that a few smart product swaps can make a huge difference. According to Hart, nourishing formulas should become a priority. "Adding nourishing brow oils and conditioning treatments to your routine is recommended," she says. "For colour, softer definition products tend to become more suited. These help create the appearance of fullness, whilst still looking natural. And a brow gel with serious hold is key to hold any unruly hairs in place all day."

Choosing the right shade and application technique is equally important. "Always match your brow colour to your hair colour on your head," advises Hart. "If you have warmer tones, opt for a warm shade of pencil. If your hair is more ashy, choose a cool-toned shade." When applying, she recommends sketching pencil strokes underneath the hairs to create structure and fullness before blending with a spoolie to soften any harsh edges. "Finish with a tiny amount of brow gel, gently backcombing hairs and positioning them where you'd like them to stay."

With these expert tips in mind, I've rounded up the very best brow products for women over 50—from nourishing growth treatments to natural-looking pencils and the strongest brow gels worth investing in.

The Best Brow Products for Over 50s

1. Best Overall: Victoria Beckham Beauty Babyblade, £33
2. Best Traditional Brow Pencil: Wolfie Cosmetics Brow Sketch Pencil, £14
3. Best Tinted Brow Gel: Merit Brow 1980, £21
4. Best Clear Brow Gel: Vieve Modern Brow Gel, £23
5. Best Brow Pomade: Refy Brow Pomade, £16

1. Victoria Beckham Beauty Babyblade Taupe

Designed to mimic the look of real brow hairs, this pencil from Victoria Beckham Beauty is one of the most sophisticated brow products I've tried. The ultra-fine brush tip allows you to create incredibly realistic strokes that blend seamlessly with existing brow hairs, making it particularly useful for filling sparse areas without creating a drawn-on effect. The lightweight formula dries quickly, stays put throughout the day, and gives brows natural-looking definition that flatters mature skin. If your brows have become patchy due to over-plucking or age-related thinning, this is one of the most convincing options available.

2. Wolfie Cosmetics Brow Sketch Pencil

If you like the control and familiarity of a traditional brow pencil, this one strikes an excellent balance between precision and softness. The fine tip allows you to fill gaps and define shape, while the formula remains creamy enough to blend effortlessly through the brow. Unlike some firmer pencils, it doesn't drag on the skin, making it particularly flattering on mature complexions. The spoolie helps diffuse colour for a naturally fuller finish rather than a harshly outlined brow.

3. Merit Brow 1980

Merit's Brow 1980 has developed a loyal following thanks to its ability to add colour, hold, and subtle volume in a single swipe. Inspired by the fuller, feathered brows of the 1980s, the formula coats each hair without becoming crunchy or stiff. The small brush makes application incredibly easy, while the fibres help create the illusion of greater density. It's especially effective for those whose brows have become lighter or less defined with age.

4. Vieve Modern Brow Gel

For those who already have good brow shape but struggle with wiry or unruly hairs, this clear brow gel from Vieve delivers impressive hold without flaking. The serum-like formula locks hairs into place while maintaining a soft, natural appearance rather than a laminated look. It layers beautifully over pencil or powder and keeps brows groomed all day.

5. Refy Brow Pomade

Refy's Brow Pomade offers more structure and definition than a pencil while remaining easier to use than traditional pot pomades. The creamy formula glides onto the skin and brow hairs to create shape, depth, and fullness, making it an ideal option for those with sparse brows. Despite its pigmentation, it blends well and can be sheered out for a softer finish. Plus, a little goes a long way, so the product lasts remarkably well.

6. Byellie Brow Dust

For mature skin, brow powders are often underrated, and this one delivers soft-focus definition that never looks harsh or heavy. The powder texture creates natural depth and fullness while avoiding the overly crisp appearance some pencils can create. It's particularly effective on brows that still retain a reasonable amount of hair. The finish is soft and flattering.

7. NYX Micro Brow Pencil

Its thousands of five star reviews are testament to being one of the best budget-friendly brow products available. Its ultra-slim tip rivals many luxury alternatives, allowing for precise hair-like strokes and detailed shaping, and the waxy formula helps colour stay in place while remaining easy to blend.

8. Jones Road The Brow Pencil

The thicker pencil format of this particular brow pencil from Jones Road makes filling brows quick and intuitive, while the formula deposits colour softly enough to avoid mistakes. Rather than focusing on tiny individual strokes, it creates an overall impression of fullness and definition.

9. Refy Brow Sculpt

Brow Sculpt has become something of a cult product thanks to its exceptional hold—personally I've never used anything else quite like it. The clear wax-gel formula grips onto every hair and keeps brows in place from morning until night. It's particularly effective for mature brows that have become coarse, unruly or prone to drooping throughout the day—and despite the impressive hold, it doesn't leave brows feeling stiff or uncomfortable.

10. Anastasia Beverly Hills Volumizing Tinted Brow Gel

If your main concern is thinning brows, this fibre-packed tinted gel delivers impressive results. The formula coats individual hairs while depositing tiny fibres that create the illusion of greater density and thickness. It adds colour, volume, and shape in one step, making it ideal for mature brows that have lost fullness over time.

11. Ilia Micro-Tip Brow Pencil

If precision is the priority, this ultra-fine tip allows you to recreate individual hairs and subtly extend brow tails, making it perfect for sparse areas. The formula strikes an ideal balance between firmness and blendability, creating natural definition without looking harsh. It's one of the best options for restoring shape and structure to brows affected by over-plucking.

12. Rapidlash Rapidbrow Eyebrow Enhancing Serum

For those experiencing age-related thinning, RapidBrow remains one of the most popular brow growth serums available. The lightweight treatment is formulated with peptides, biotin, and conditioning ingredients designed to support healthier-looking brows over time. With consistent use, many users report fuller-looking brows and improved density after several weeks. Patience is required, but the results can be impressive.

13. Wolfie Cosmetics Elixir Brow Oil

Specifically designed to nourish brow hairs and the skin beneath them, this lightweight oil blend helps soften coarse hairs while encouraging healthier-looking brows overall. Used overnight, I find it leaves my brows looking glossier, smoother, and better conditioned. "The roller ball applicator means you can glide it back-and-forth," says Hart. "It feels like a massage on the brow bone area, so it’s a super relaxing end-of-day ritual."

How We Tested

To find the best brow products for women over 50, we tested a range of pencils, gels, pomades, powders, and conditioning treatments, evaluating each for ease of use, longevity, shade selection, and overall finish. We also tapped the expertise of makeup artist Lucy Hart who regularly uses brow products on clients experiencing age-related concerns such as thinning, greying, and unruly brow hairs.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

If there's one person who loves to tease a new beauty product launch, it's Hailey Bieber. It feels like she has been hinting at a Rhode bronzer launch for a while now, and finally, the Rhode Pocket Bronze (£25) is here. And were they worth the wait? Absolutely.

I got my hands on the bronzers, as well as some of the most-anticipated Rhode Summer Collection launches, including the Highlight Milk and limited-edition Peptide Lip Tints and new shades of the Peptide Lip Shapes. Ms Bieber really has spoiled us this summer. Scroll on for what you need to know, and why the Pocket Bronze 100% deserves a spot in your makeup bag.

Rhode Pocket Bronze

The Formula and Shades

Following in the footsteps of the highly coveted Pocket Blush (£25), Pocket Bronze has the same buttery formula in cream bronzer form. There are eight shades to choose from, spanning across a range of skin tones from fair to deep, and the shade range feels really considered, catering to a range of different undertones, too.

The formula contains Rhode's signature peptides, as well as tamanu oil, which gives the formula a creamy slip that ensures it effortlessly melts into the skin with a satiny finish. They're easy enough to dot onto your skin and blend with your fingers, or blend out with a brush. Either way, these creamy bronzers meld with your complexion seamlessly, leaving you with a naturally sun-kissed glow. And as its name suggests, these nimble bronzers are small enough to slip into your makeup bag, making them great for top-ups as well.

My Thoughts

My first impression of the Pocket Bronze is just how easy they are to use. I live in fear of bronzers that are too heavy or patchy, but this lightweight formula has a silky, buttery consistency that just blends so effortlessly into the skin, whether worn on bare skin or buffed over a skin tint. They also pair beautifully with the new Highlight Milk (£28), a milky lumizing highlighter fluid, which I like to mix into my base before applying my bronzer on the days when I want more glow.

I'd describe the finish of these bronzers as sheer and satiny; it's not so dewy that it disappears halfway through the day, but remains easy to blend and gives a hint of glow to your complexion without glitter or sparkle (all the shades are matte, FYI). I've tried hundreds of bronzers, but I'm already willing to say this after testing it for just over a week—this is easily one of the very best I've tried, and I'm very picky about bronzers.

I tried three of the shades, including Sip (for light to light-medium skin tones), Sunbed (light to light-medium complexions) and Bake (for light-medium to medium tones). I have light skin; however, my complexion has been particularly sun-starved over summer, so most days I reached for either Sip or Sunbed, which gave me the healthy-looking glow I've been craving.

I used a fluffy makeup brush to buff the bronzer onto my cheeks, forehead, nose and a little on my eyelids too, and it instantly added warmth to my skin with minimal blending required. They also wear really well throughout the day, and although I've been carrying one in my bag, I haven't felt the need to top up as they're really long-lasting.

In case you hadn't already guessed, I'm already a big fan of the Rhode Pocket Bronze. So if you're in the market for a new bronzer this summer, you really can't go wrong with this one. Thank you, Hailey. The Pocket Bronze was definitely worth the wait.

Shop Now:

Shop the Rhode Summer Collection:

How We Tested

I've been testing the new Rhode Pocket Bronzers, as well as some of the Rhode Summer Collection, over the past week. I tested three shades of the bronzer, and used them both on their own and over makeup to rate the formula, the ease of use and the shade range.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

They say that the eyes are a window to the soul, and I'd add that eye makeup is a reflection of style. Whether you're a makeup maximalist or minimalist, onlookers catch a glimpse of your creative persona via the wash of colour splashed across your eyelids or the whisper of smoky eyeliner rimming your orbs. Your eyes don't just say that you're warm, inviting or not in the mood for talking—they also say that you have a good enough understanding of colour theory to know that rich burgundy shadow makes your brown eyes pop or that you made the conscious choice to go mascara-free to let your lipstick do the talking.

Since I'm always looking to reinvent my eye makeup, one of my first references is the French—what with their mystique, eclectically chic clothes and effortless beauty. Though Parisian women may be best known for their statement red lips, French makeup artist Violette Serrat calls one of her latest ventures, the Violette_Fr Plume Eye Shadow, one of the most authentic to her lifestyle.

"In a way, Plume Eyeshadow might be the most French-inspired formula we’ve created yet," says Serrat, the artist and brand's founder. ("After Bisou Balm," she clarifies.) "I’ve always been obsessed with the eyes in old French cinema—nothing too perfect or overly 'done,'" she explains, "just this soft, lived-in sensuality that makes you look more like yourself, but with a little mystery." Yes, there are cream eye shadow sticks, liquid shadows, and powder formulas galore, but Serrat found herself floundering when she tried to look for something sheerer, more foolproof, and perfectly French-friendly: meaning you can truly swipe and go.

"I realised there was nothing on the market that gave you that feeling in an effortless, intuitive way," she tells Who What Wear. To fill the gap, her team hit the cosmetics lab to cook up a cream-to-powder texture that offered the blending ease she sought with the smoky, gauzy finish she craved. "It has this incredible melt-to-matte effect that fuses with the skin and creates a soft veil of colour instead of something harsh or flat," she explains. In short, they're inherently immune to mistakes. In Serrat's words, the resulting blue-tinned, dreamy shadows that look closer to a trick of the light than a makeup product are things you could "build, smudge, and wear instinctively." Sounds like a French reverie.

The "French Girl" Approach

"For me, the 'French girl' approach is really about restraint," says Serrat. Sheer washes of colour and diffused colour sound easy-breezy but are typically the result of several ultra-thin layers blended into oblivion by a highly trained makeup artist. "I wanted to create a formula you could literally swipe on with your finger in two seconds and go. If you’re spending an hour in front of the mirror trying to perfect your eye shadow, you’ve already lost that effortless feeling," she adds. Effortless beauty should be effortless, no?

5 Ways to Wear the Plume Eye Shadows

Yes, I dedicated an entire paragraph of this piece to the French approach to beauty, but the secret is scarily simple—messy, hurried and virtually technique-less. However, I'm an American interpreting French beauty, so naturally I'm making things a bit more complicated. Keep scrolling to see the five ways I'm manipulating this shadow this summer.

Watercolour Wash

The first, and most authentic French technique, is the smudge-and-go. Thanks to these hazy, sheer shadows, you can rub the pad of your finger onto the cream powder and muss it onto your lids for that hazy wash of colour. "One trick I love is working the shadow onto the volume of the eye," says Serrat, referencing the centre of the lid. "I add to the centre of the eyelid, then focus depth into the crease and along the lash line, stretching it out toward the outer corner of the eye," she explains. "It gives the eyes this alive, smoky look that feels cinematic and sensual without looking overworked."

Colour Used: Pluie Violette

Hazy Liner

One of my favorite ways to do eye makeup is to accent the lash line with a soft flick of eye shadow, not liner. It's softer, making it suitable for daytime, but it can also be intensified for a deeper look once the sun goes down. (Or anytime you want, it's your world.) " I love taking a small brush and pressing it along the upper and lower lash lines, almost like a soft liner, then winging it out slightly," says Serrat. "It gives the eyes definition and depth but in a much lighter way than a classic eyeliner."

Colour I Used: Charbon Fumé

Soft Smoke

While I love tracing a clean wing with these soft shadows, the formula envelopes the eye in a seductive fog when smudged into the lash line. "I’ll use a combination of fingers and a brush to add colour across the eyelid, concentrating more depth in the outer corner and tracing it along the upper and lower lash lines," says Serrat. "Then, I’ll softly blend additional colour just above the natural crease to create the illusion of wider, more open eyes," she adds. This, she says, is a great way to "open" hooded eyelids.

Colours Used: Charbon Fumé and Bois Brûlé

Flash of Light

Think of eye shadow as an outfit: You can play with layers until the look feels right. "I’ll swipe on a shimmer shade of Plume Eyeshadow and finish with tiny accents of Lune Liner in the corners of the eyes to catch the light as the face moves," says Serrat. "I never want it to feel 'full glam,'" she states. "It should feel spontaneous, like the makeup became part of you." The key to one of these effortless yet undeniably cool looks is stepping outside your comfort zone—you won't find anything new there. "Makeup should feel expressive, not restrictive," she muses.

Colour Shown: Pluie Violette

Halo Eyes

I love a sultry halo eye after the sun goes down, and these shadows are especially suited for the occasion. The blendable cream pigments are easy to smooth over the eyes in a sheer wash, which creates a solid base for the rest of the look. With a small blending brush, I gently apply my deeper shade (in this case, Bois Brûlé) to the inner and outer corners of the eye, sweeping toward the centre but leaving a blank space in the middle. (Pro tip: Blend out any harsh edges with your fingers for a smoother look.) Selecting a shimmery accent shade, I'll coat the pad of my fingertip in the sparkling shadow and swipe it over the centre a few times to build intensity. From there, you can blend any rough lines with a fluffy brush—but don't overdo it, as the small imperfections are what keep these looks interesting.

Colours I Used: Orchidée Céleste and Bois Brûlé

More Effortless Single Eye Shadows to Try

Open up a beauty editor's makeup bag, and there are a few cult products that you're bound to find. Hourglass makeup brushes, the Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation and a Merit blusher are just some that come to mind, but one bronzer that I know every editor swears by is the Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Bronzing Cream. Have I mentioned that it's one of my favourite cream bronzers of all time (and one of the best Chanel beauty products ever)?

Like bathing your cheeks in all the sun-kissed goodness that would have anyone thinking you've just got back from a week in Greece, this bronzer is my go-to when my complexion feels a little dull or lacklustre. One swipe and suddenly it's like I've just stepped off the plane, with people left, right and centre commenting on how radiant I look. I know what you're thinking: surely one little pot can't do all that? If you don't believe me, keep on scrolling...

First up, let's talk formula. A hybrid between cream and gel, this product sinks into the skin like butter whilst remaining lightweight and easy to blend. It has a velvety finish, which makes your skin look plump and healthy in a matter of seconds. There are five shades available, and I like to apply the lightest shade with a kabuki brush as I find it creates the most naturally sun-kissed effect; however, the great thing about this product is its versatility.

Thanks to its unique texture, you can either apply it to areas where the sun would naturally hit (such as your cheeks, nose and forehead), or lightly blend it all over the face for a more intense bronzed finish. It's not shimmery, so you could even apply it to the hollows of your cheekbones to help contour, but I personally prefer using a contour stick for this.

I've recently opened a fresh pot, and let me tell you, there's no feeling like it. I could feel the excitement as I swirled my brush into the bronzer, knowing I was about to have a really, really good makeup day. As someone who sits at a desk most weeks from 9-5, I can't say I get the best tan during the warmer months, which is why this product is my summer essential.

Yes, it's an investment, but seeing as you only need a few swipes for your best skin yet, it will last you forever. Trust me, your future self will be thanking you for this purchase when you're looking back through photos, shocked at just how bronzed and glowy you look...

Shop Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Bronzing Cream

Shop More Chanel Summer Favourites

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

We all love a multitasking beauty product, don't we? Whether it's a lip-and-cheek stain, a colour-correcting moisturiser or a hardworking multi-stick, products that streamline your routine while saving time and money are always welcome. But what about foundation with sunscreen? Can one product really do the job of both?

I put the question to my go-to dermatologist, Dr Anjali Mahto, founder of Self London, who delivered a reality check. "Foundation with added UV filters absolutely does not replace your dedicated, broad-spectrum sunscreen," she explains, adding that the reason is simple: people rarely apply makeup thickly or evenly enough to achieve the level of protection stated on the bottle.

The good news? Dr Mahto reveals that the added sun protection in foundation does still offer meaningful benefits, particularly for ageing skin. "The iron oxides often found in tinted makeup help block the visible light that can exacerbate stubborn pigmentation." Just remember that foundation with SPF should be viewed as a useful secondary layer of defence rather than your primary shield.

That said, today's formulas are more sophisticated than ever. Alongside broad-spectrum UV protection, many new-gen foundations now contain hydrating ingredients, antioxidants and skin-perfecting pigments that help create a smoother, healthier-looking complexion.

For extra points, look for formulas featuring a PA++++ rating. Developed in Asia and commonly found in K-beauty products, the PA (Protection Grade of UVA) system indicates a very high level of protection against UVA rays—the ones responsible for wrinkles, pigmentation and other signs of premature ageing.

And if you're wondering how to reapply SPF over makeup, Dr Mahto has some sage advice. "Using a dedicated sunscreen mist or a sunscreen-containing setting spray is the most convenient, hygienic method. Alternatively, you can use a translucent sunscreen powder or gently dab a lightweight sunscreen fluid over your skin, being careful to press rather than drag."

Not sure which formula is worth your money? I've tested more than 20 foundations with sunscreen, and these are the seven that make the cut.

How I Tested

To find the best foundations with sunscreen, I tested each foundation for a few days, paying close attention to how it performed in everyday wear rather than just after the first application. I assessed coverage, finish and longevity, looking for formulas that evened out skin tone without feeling heavy, cakey or uncomfortable. Particular attention was paid to how well each product blended, whether it layered successfully over sunscreen and skincare, and how it wore throughout the day.

Because sun protection is a key selling point, I also considered SPF level and any additional UVA protection, such as a PA rating. Extra credit was given to formulas that offered skincare benefits, including hydration, antioxidant protection and barrier support. Overall, ease of application, comfort, wear time and the ability to deliver both a polished complexion and reliable daily sun protection were the deciding factors in my final selections.

Best Foundations with SPF

• Best Overall: Sculpted by Aimee Cushion Compact, £28
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Dior Forever Skin Glow, £52
• Best for Mature Skin: Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser SPF30, £40
• Best for Dry Skin: Tom Ford Architecture Radiance Hydrating Foundation, £76
• Best for Dull Skin: Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Huez Tinted Moisturiser Broad Spectrum Mineral SPF 30 Sunscreen, £32
• Best for a Barely-There Finish: Eborian CC Creme, £38
• Best for Fine Lines: Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturiser, £39

1. Sculpted By Aimee Cushion Compact

This has been my go-to foundation for more than a year, thanks to its impressive staying power. Powered by long-wear polymers, it lasts from the school run through to pub drinks without fading or slipping. It also gives skin a healthy, natural-looking glow, while the buildable coverage allows you to dial up the finish as needed. The compact's clever mesh applicator dispenses just the right amount of product, making application virtually foolproof. Best of all, the creamy texture feels comfortable and hydrating without tipping into greasy territory, making it an excellent choice for combination skin.

2. Dior Forever Skin Glow

If your skin is on the sensitive side, I can't recommend this foundation highly enough. It has a lightweight, almost serum-like texture that glides onto skin effortlessly, yet still delivers impressive coverage. It blends seamlessly and, while easy to build, a single layer is enough to leave skin looking radiant, fresh and naturally dewy. The formula is packed with hyaluronic acid to boost hydration and niacinamide, a gentle anti-inflammatory ingredient that helps strengthen the skin barrier. When it comes to sun protection, it also delivers with SPF 25 and PA+++, offering a reassuring level of daily UV defence.

3. Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser SPF30

A bestseller for good reason, this may technically be a tinted moisturiser, but I found the coverage rivals that of many foundations. Alongside SPF 30, the formula contains vitamin C to help defend against environmental aggressors and brighten uneven skin tone, while French Polynesian Kopara delivers a boost of hydration and helps keep skin feeling comfortable throughout the day. It also has an impressively flexible texture that moves with the skin, so I found it didn't settle into my fine lines as the day wore on. It's perfect for hot weather, too, as it feels incredibly lightweight.

4. Tom Ford Architecture Radiance Hydrating Foundation SPF50+

What immediately sets this foundation apart is its SPF 50 status—a level of protection that's surprisingly rare in complexion products. It blends beautifully, feels creamy yet lightweight on the skin and leaves behind a radiant, healthy-looking glow. What impressed me most, however, was just how hydrating it is; you could easily skip moisturiser and apply it straight after your sunscreen. It's also resistant to sweat, water and humidity, yet manages to avoid the cakey, heavy feel that often comes with long-wear formulas. Yes, it's an investment, but if sun protection is a priority and you've found other foundations fall short, this one is well worth considering.

5. Eborian CC Creme

If you're after that elusive "your skin but better" finish, this CC cream is hard to beat. Lightweight and easy to apply, it evens out redness, smooths tone and delivers a healthy, natural-looking glow without ever feeling heavy. The coverage sits somewhere between a tinted moisturiser and a foundation, making it ideal for days when you want a bit of polish without looking overly made up. Better still, it combines skincare benefits with broad-spectrum sun protection, so your complexion looks fresher while staying shielded from daily UV exposure. For the laid-back days, or when I really don't want my makeup to take centre stage, then this is a winner.

6. Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturiser

Part skincare, part makeup, this is infused with raspberry leaf extract and prebiotics to deliver lasting hydration, while black grape pomace helps blur the appearance of uneven texture and white rose extract nourishes the skin. The lightweight, flexible formula sits beautifully on the skin, and I loved how it resisted the tendency to settle into fine lines. It really helped to give my skin a healthy glow.

7. Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Huez Tinted Moisturiser Broad Spectrum Mineral SPF 30 Sunscreen

This was brilliant at dialling up my glow. The pigment blend helps to tone down dullness and redness while still letting your natural radiance shine through. The shade range is strong, with a thoughtful focus on undertones. The coverage is lightweight and more sheer than buildable, but it really delivers when it comes to luminosity and a healthy-looking finish.

Will Using SPF in Foundation Increase My Overall Protection? 

While it might sound logical, Dr Mahto says you cannot mathematically stack UV filters. "Wearing a factor 30 foundation over a factor 30 sunscreen will only ever provide a maximum of factor 30 protection." However, she adds that layering them is still highly recommended. "The makeup helps catch any areas you may have missed and somewhat compensates for the common habit of under-applying primary sunscreen," she adds.

Can You Wear Sunscreen and Foundation Together? 

"Absolutely," says Dr Mahto. Simply apply your sunscreen as the final step of your skincare routine, allow it a minute or two to fully absorb and form a film, and then apply your foundation smoothly over the top.

Is SPF in Foundation Good for Ageing Skin? 

The added sun protection in foundation is certainly beneficial for ageing skin, Dr Mahto reveals. "The iron oxides often found in tinted makeup help block the visible light that can exacerbate stubborn pigmentation. However, it should only ever be viewed as a helpful secondary layer of defence, rather than your primary anti-ageing shield," she reveals.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

My mum and I have very different approaches to our beauty routines, especially when it comes to makeup. Whilst I could sit for hours trying out different products and application techniques, my mum won't spend more than five minutes tops applying tinted moisturiser, mascara and lipstick. Every time we go on holiday together, we laugh at how my makeup bag is about five times the size of hers, and it's a running joke in our family about how much longer I take to get ready.

That being said, there's one thing we do agree on when it comes to makeup, and that's how hard it is to find a hydrating lipstick that doesn't leave our lips feeling dry and chapped. I can't count how many lip balms, lip oils and lipstick formulas we've both been through, desperate to find one that actually delivers on the formula and the finish. At least that was the case until we discovered the Estée Lauder Pure Colour Melt-On Glosstick.

Housed in a chic gold vessel, this glossy lip balm feels like everything we've been waiting for. When samples landed on my desk a few months ago, I sent a few shades to my mum to try, and we both texted each other a few days later raving about the launch. Since then, every time we're together, at least one of us has pulled this product out of our handbag, and my mum even told me she hasn't used anything else since getting her hands on it.

What makes it so great, I hear you ask? It's all in the formula. As the name suggests, this velvety lipstick starts as a solid gloss that heats up on contact with the lips, practically melting in like butter. It's incredibly hydrating, formulated with 41% conditioning oils. However, unlike other hydrating balms we've tried, this also gives a gloss-like finish. I mean, it's so shiny that it's practically reflective.

The hydration! The shine! The plumping effect! Everything about it is perfection. Plus, thanks to the buttery formula and easy-to-use applicator, it's so easy to throw in your handbag and apply on the go. Not that you need to top it up that much, as for once, this hydration actually lasts.

There are currently 8 shades available, and honestly, we're both having a hard time choosing a favourite (yes, I am texting my mum whilst I am writing this), but I have linked some of our top choices below that you can wear alone or with your favourite lip liner. If, like us, you always have dry lips and are yet to find a product that delivers on both the formula and finish, I suggest adding the Estée Lauder Pure Colour Melt-On Glosstick to your basket ASAP...

Shop the Estée Lauder Pure Colour Melt-On Glosstick

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

In the summer months, I solely wear skin tints. Forget foundation, as these barely-there, complexion-perfecting products are all I need for a glowy makeup look. I have some firm favourites in my makeup bag, from the Hourglass Veil Hydrating Skin Tint to the Ilia Beauty Super Serum Skin Tint, and it takes a lot for me to stray from these. So, when everyone started raving about the Kylie Cosmetics Skin Tint Blurring Elixir, I dismissed it immediately.

Not only did I think it would never beat my go-to products, but to be totally honest, I'm a bit skeptical of celebrity beauty brands. I know, I know, there are some genuinely amazing celeb products out there, but more often than not, these brands never live up to the hype. Kylie Cosmetics is known for its Lip Kits (which launched in 2015), but when it comes to complexion products, I didn't have high hopes. Oh, how wrong I was.

As it turns out, this skin tint is one of the best things I've ever put on my face. Kylie, forgive me, as you have created my new favourite complexion product for the summer ahead.

Whilst most skin tints I've tried have a similar texture to foundation, this features a fluid, weightless, almost water-like texture that glides onto the skin and makes it feel as if you are wearing nothing at all. It is packed with hyaluronic acid for a hydrating, seamless-wearing experience, with light-to-medium, second-skin coverage. Whilst I would still use concealer to cover any blemishes, as the name suggests, this product blurs the appearance of pores and skin texture, leaving a smooth, radiant finish that gives all those TikTok filters a run for their money.

There are 24 shades available in a wide range of skin tones, and I personally wear 4.5 Warm Neutral, which works beautifully in the summer months when I'm a bit more tanned. When I wore this to the office for the first time, I had three colleagues compliment my makeup. Since then, I've reached for it pretty much every single day, and I couldn't tell you how many people have asked what foundation I'm wearing.

As a beauty editor who has tested hundreds (yes, hundreds) of base products over the years, it takes a lot for me to write a standalone piece on a skin tint, let alone a rave review like this one. But with a formula and finish this good (and unlike anything else I've tried), it's hard not to fall in love. No matter how unexpected the love story may be...

Shop the Kylie Cosmetics Skin Tint Blurring Elixir

Shop More Kylie Cosmetics

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

,Here on Who What Wear UK, our beauty team is particularly nosy when it comes to celebrity beauty products. We've interviewed the likes of Gracie Abrams and Sienna Miller on the beauty products they cannot live without. From perfume to makeup, we know the exact products celebrities are using.

However, if I could steal the makeup bag of any celebrity, it would have to be Kendall Jenner. From her incredible lashes to her impeccable eyebrows, I'm desperate to know what products she actually uses. Of course, Kendall is regularly an ambassador for a number of beauty brands (most recently, L'Oréal Paris and Korean skincare brand, Anua), so both Kendall and her makeup artist, Mary Phillips, often post themselves using products from these brands. However, there are also some unsponsored makeup products that I know for a fact Kendall Jenner uses.

If you're just as curious as I am to know the makeup products that Kendall Jenner actually uses, scroll on for all the details. Plus, you'll be pleased to know that many come in at under £20.

Kendall Jenner Makeup Products

1. Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Capsule Mist

2. L'Oréal Paris True Match Liquid Foundation

3. Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Sun-Kissed Glow Bronzer

4. L'Oréal Paris Telescopic Extensionist Lengthening & Curling Mascara

5. Anastasia Beverely Hills Brow Wiz

6. L'Oréal Paris Lumi Le Liquid Blush

7. L'Oréal Paris Blurfiller Blurring Lip Contour Lip Liner

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

I want to start this article by saying that when it comes to makeup, I usually don't like highlighter. I know what you're thinking... if that's how you feel, why are you even writing this piece? Well, it's because I've finally found a product that I can get on board with. In fact, not only have I gotten on board with this shimmery delight, but I've worn it every single day since getting my hands on it.

I was telling my friends about it and said, "It's like fairy dust for your cheekbones." They all told me I was being dramatic, but once I let them try it out for themselves, they were in total agreement. The product in question? The Hourglass Unreal Liquid Highlighter.

I'd normally roll my eyes at a brand calling their product "unreal", but honestly, I see why Hourglass has done it. This teeny tiny bottle holds an illuminating formula like no other. One drop, and suddenly my skin is basking in golden sunlight, with a healthy glow that screams, "My skincare routine is better than yours." (In reality, I've probably splashed my face with cold water and slathered some moisturiser on in the bathroom mirror whilst still half asleep.)

There are five shades available, from pale champagne hues to bronze gold and copper rose tones. My go-to is Infinite, a yellow gold that adds the perfect amount of shimmer to my skin. Unlike other highlighters I've tried, it never looks glittery, which means I'm flooded with compliments about my natural-looking glow.

Now, when I say you only need a drop, I really mean it. This highlighter packs a punch, so if you prefer a more naturally illuminated finish (like me), start slowly. I recommend giving the product a good shake before dispensing a small amount onto the back of your hand, then using the brand's No. 16 Highlighter Brush (£48) to tap it onto the tops of your cheekbones.

The hydrating, serum-like texture blends like a dream, adding a radiant, plumping effect to the cheeks. In the past, I've found that other highlighters can cling to the skin and show up every patch of dryness and skin texture, but this does no such thing. Whilst I'd never say you need an extra product in your summer makeup kit, if you like a glowy makeup look, then you'll be hard-pressed to find something better than this.

Shop the Hourglass Unreal Liquid Highlighter

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

As someone who adores a “no makeup” makeup look, has eczema and extremely dry skin, and, most importantly, despises the feeling of too many products on my face, I’m forever on the hunt for lightweight base products that cover my blemishes and dark spots without looking cakey or flaking. And although there’s a time and place for a BB cream, and I’m always partial to a tinted SPF, for me, nothing has ever come close to a concealer pen.

What Is a Concealer Pen?

A concealer pen merges your typical liquid concealer with skin-loving ingredients, then packs it into a sleek bottle with a built-in applicator brush. It lets you precisely cover blemishes and hyperpigmentation without the heaviness of classic foundation. The click-style design also dispenses exactly the amount of product needed, making it mess-free and easy to take on the go.

As someone who has very dehydrated and sensitive skin, I reach for this hydrating concealer year-round; however, I think it really comes into its own throughout summer when we all want to avoid layering too many heavy complexion products. Whether I’m heading to the office, a night out or on a sun-soaked getaway, a concealer pen will make doing my makeup quick, easy and streamlined, all with the added skincare ingredients that will nourish and protect my skin.

What Are the Benefits of a Concealer Pen?

A concealer pen comes with many benefits:

1. Natural-looking finish: Concealer pens are lightweight formulas that allow for targeted application. This stops makeup from looking too cakey or feeling heavy on the skin. These formulas can also be built up or applied sheer, meaning you can achieve a finish that’s as natural as you’d like.

2. Skin-loving ingredients: Concealer pens are packed with a number of skincare benefits, often using ingredients such as vitamin E, hyaluronic acid and caffeine that help to hydrate the skin and eliminate dark circles with continued use.

3. Easy to take on the go: The sleek, leak-proof packaging of a concealer pen makes it small enough to fit in a clutch, purse or handbag, enabling easy touch-ups on the go.

Convinced and ready to pick out your perfect concealer pen? Well, luckily for you, I’ve tried many, and below, I’ve rounded up the eight best formulas to suit every skin type and budget.

The Best Concealer Pens, According to a Beauty Writer

● Best Overall: YSL Touche Eclat High Cover Concealer (£32)
● Best Luxury Concealer Pen: Victoria Beckham The Concealer Pen (£64)
● Best Affordable Concealer Pen: L'Oreal Paris True Match Concealer Eye Cream (£11)
● Best Dewy Concealer Pen: CAIA Radiant Touch Concealer (£25)
● Best Matte Concealer Pen: MAC Cosmetics Studio Fix Every-Wear All-Over Face Pen (£28)

1. YSL Touche Eclat High Cover Concealer

2. Victoria Beckham Beauty The Concealer Pen

3. L'Oréal Paris True Match Concealer Eye Cream