In a market that’s oversaturated with similar products, brands that follow gimmicky social media trends, and firms that overpromise and underdeliver on their product claims, it can be hard to find skincare brands that truly make a difference. It feels like nowadays every brand is pushing out a constant wave of products, all promising to make your skin look and feel amazing. And it can be exhausting.

Dr. Idriss stood out to me as a brand with an authentic identity. Its product line is well thought-out, rooted in science, and uncomplicated. Founded by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shereene Idriss, Dr. Idriss focuses on evidence-based and effective formulations that are clinically tested, non-irritating, and free from fragrance.

In this review, I share my honest experience of using Dr. Idriss and whether the products have made any noticeable difference to my skin after testing them for the last 6 weeks.

*This post contains some affiliate links. This means, at no extra cost to you, I earn some commission if you purchase a product through my link. All thoughts are my own, though, as always. If you want to find out more, visit my affiliate disclosure page*

Products in this review

3 Dr. Idriss products are featured in this review:

1. The Depuffer Roll-On Serum
2. Major Fade Flash Mask
3. Barrier Baste Lip Baste

Below, I review each product individually before sharing my overall thoughts on this skincare brand.

1. Dr. Idriss The Depuffer

£39 for 40ml

About the product

The Depuffer Roll-On Serum is a cooling, lightweight gel designed to help calm visible puffiness and redness. You can use the metal roller applicator under the eyes or on any area that feels warm, irritated, or swollen. It claims to be suitable for all skin types. The roller design delivers a cooling sensation on application.

Key ingredients include niacinamide, which can help improve the look of uneven tone and support the skin’s barrier; centella asiatica, often used to support barrier repair and soothe irritation; and arnica, which helps reduce the look of swelling.

Use it after cleansing and before moisturiser — twist to the “on” position to dispense a small amount, roll over the skin, then pat in any leftover gel.

In an independent clinical and consumer perception study of 28 subjects after 5 minutes and 4 weeks using The Depuffer, 92% of users said it soothed irritation, 92% said their skin felt refreshed, and 88% reported a reduction in signs of redness.

The Depuffer has won multiple awards, including: Allure Best of Beauty 2023, Marie Claire Skin and Hair Award 2024, and Refinery29 Beauty Innovator 2023.

Review

I’m a fan of The Depuffer.

Let’s start with the packaging and application. The roller design makes it easy to smooth the product across your face, and it has a lovely cooling and soothing sensation when you apply it, which is exactly what you want if your skin feels inflamed, red, or puffy. Beyond using the serum when I have a rosacea flare-up or if my skin feels aggravated, this would be an amazing summer skincare product for keeping your skin cool and fresh when it’s hot. However, I could see the roller getting messy over time, as it dispenses quite a lot of product, so you’d need to keep on top of cleaning it to ensure it doesn’t get gross.

This roll-on serum does a great job of relieving irritation, reducing puffiness, and calming redness within an hour. I don’t typically get puffy undereyes, but when I do, this helps calm them quickly.

While this serum doesn’t treat rosacea, I use it if my rosacea flares up or after a workout when my skin is warm and red for fast-acting relief. It’s also a fantastic choice if you’ve aggravated your skin barrier as a soothing, skin-friendly option.

This formula is kind to my combination, sensitive skin. The serum looks tinted but turns invisible once you’ve massaged it into your skin.

Rating: 4.5 stars

This is a great serum to have on hand for when your skin is red or irritated.

2. Dr. Idriss Major Fade

£50 for 50ml

About the product

The Dr. Idriss Major Fade Flash Mask is an exfoliating mask meant to brighten dull skin and smooth texture. It’s formulated to be used a few times a week in the evening as a rinse-off step. This exfoliator claims to be suitable for all skin types, improve uneven skin tone, and reduce redness.

This mask incorporates glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps remove dead surface skin cells to improve texture and tone; lactic acid, another AHA that gently exfoliates and can also help boost hydration; and tranexamic acid, which been shown to help fade visible discolouration and reduce the look of redness. Glycerin is included to attract and retain moisture while exfoliating.

Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin, leave on for 10-15 minutes, and rinse off. It’s designed to work with the rest of your routine rather than replace your usual cleanser or moisturiser.

In an independent clinical and consumer perception study of 29 subjects after 8 weeks using the Dr. Idriss Major Fade Solution System, 100% of users reported brighter and more radiant skin, 97% reported a more even skin tone, and 90% reported a reduction in the appearance of hyperpigmentation.

Major Fade has won multiple awards, including the Allure Best of Beauty 2025 and Byrdie Beauty Award 2024.

Review

I love the Dr. Idriss Major Fade Flash Mask.

The squeezy tube means you can dispense the product onto your fingertips and control the amount you apply to your skin. The texture is gel-like and smooths over the skin easily. It feels a little tacky once applied and as it dries down, but this is common with these types of masks.

I feel a tingling sensation when I’ve applied this mask. However, Dr. Idriss states that this is normal, and it didn’t feel irritating. The mask rinses off effortlessly, leaving no greasy residue behind.

As someone with rosacea and sensitive skin, I’m cautious not to overdo it with exfoliators, as overuse can damage my skin barrier and cause redness. I typically use an exfoliating product once or twice a week. For this mask, I used it once every other week in the evening.

There has been a noticeable immediate and long-term improvement in my skin since using this mask.

When I rinse the mask off, my skin instantly looks more radiant with a smooth and even complexion. It gives my skin an undeniable healthy glow. My skin doesn’t feel aggravated or look red after using this either, which is sometimes the case when I use exfoliating products. In the longer-term, this mask has made my skin tone more even. I think it’s helped reduce some redness in my skin overall as well.

Rating: 5 stars

I’m a massive fan of this gentle exfoliating face mask. It’s been a great option to implement into my skincare routine without making my rosacea flare up.

3. Dr. Idriss Barrier Baste Lip Baste

£24 for 10ml

About the product

The Barrier Baste Lip Baste is a rich lip treatment designed to help support and protect the lip skin’s natural barrier while providing hydration. The texture is balm-like but still comfortable rather than heavy, making it handy for daily use or overnight. This balm claims to be the solution to sore, dry, and chapped lips.

The formula includes squalane, a lightweight emollient that helps smooth and hydrate; ceramides, which help reinforce barrier function and retain moisture; oat oil/extract, known for antioxidant and soothing effects; and shea butter, an emollient that helps soften dry skin.

Just squeeze a small amount from the tube and smooth it over your lips. You can wear it on its own, under lip colour, or as a thicker layer at night.

In an independent clinical and consumer perception study of 34 subjects who used the Dr. Idriss Barrier Baste Lip Basting Duo, 100% of users reported relief in discomfort caused by dryness and flakiness, 100% reported immediate protection and nourishment, and 94% said the duo immediately helps heal dry, damaged lips.

Review

I really like the Dr. Idriss Barrier Baste.

This has a thick, rich, and sticky consistency. It squeezes out of the tube as a gloopy formula, but it smooths over the lips seamlessly. As this does stay tacky on the lips, I’d only use it as a protective, overnight nourishing treatment. Otherwise, if I’m outside, I know my hair will get stuck in the sticky formula. Gross.

I frequently suffer from dry lips. It feels like I constantly have to apply lip balm to keep them feeling comfortable. The Barrier Baste does a great job at instantly moisturising, soothing, and softening my lips. It provides immediate relief, alongside a noticeable improvement in the morning, as my lips feel nourished, repaired, and protected.

Since using this balm, my lips feel less dry and chapped overall, and they’re more comfortable day-to-day. This is a heavy-duty formula that will work wonders at restoring your lips to a comfortable, soft, and hydrated condition.

Rating: 5 stars

I’m very impressed with this formula.

Overall Dr. Idriss review

Dr. Idriss is a brand that cuts through the noise of an overcrowded and often unoriginal skincare market. All of the products are effective, meet their claims, are clearly designed to target and treat a specific skin concern, and feel unique and authentic.

It’s obvious that these formulas have been created by an experienced dermatologist, as they truly work for skin and fill a gap in the market. They’re not gimmicky, and they have a purpose.

All 3 products in this review have improved the look and feel of my skin, both in the short and long term. I’d happily purchase them with my own money, and I look forward to trying more products from Dr. Idriss.

The post How good is Dr. Idriss skincare? Honest review appeared first on A Woman's Confidence.

At its heart, K-beauty is not about perfection. It is about nurturing the skin so it remains healthy, resilient and naturally radiant.

Disclaimer: This content is sponsored

Skincare as self-care

One of the defining characteristics of Korean skincare is the mindset behind it. Skincare routines are viewed less as cosmetic maintenance and more as a daily act of self-care. The process encourages people to slow down and pay attention to how their skin feels and what it needs.

Instead of relying on harsh treatments designed to dramatically change the skin overnight, Korean skincare emphasises gradual improvement through gentle care. Hydration, nourishment and protection form the core of most routines. The aim is to support the skin barrier so that it functions properly rather than forcing dramatic results through aggressive ingredients.

This philosophy resonates with many people because it promotes a healthier relationship with skincare. Rather than chasing unrealistic ideals, the focus shifts toward maintaining balance and supporting the skin’s natural processes.

Prevention over correction

Another principle central to K-beauty is prevention. In many Western routines, skincare products are often introduced in response to a problem such as acne, dryness or pigmentation. Korean skincare tends to take a more proactive approach.

Hydrating toners, lightweight essences and protective sunscreens are commonly used from a young age to maintain skin health. These products work to keep the skin barrier strong and hydrated, helping to reduce the likelihood of future irritation or damage.

Sun protection is particularly important within Korean skincare culture. Consistent use of sunscreen is widely regarded as one of the most effective ways to maintain healthy skin over time. Protecting the skin from UV exposure helps prevent premature ageing, uneven tone and loss of elasticity.

Rather than focusing on dramatic transformations, the philosophy prioritises small, consistent habits that protect the skin in the long run.

Layering lightweight formulas

A distinctive feature of Korean skincare routines is the layering of lightweight products. Instead of relying on a single heavy cream or treatment, K-beauty routines often involve several lighter steps applied in sequence.

This approach allows each product to perform a specific role. A typical routine may include cleansing, toning, applying an essence, using a targeted serum and sealing everything in with a moisturiser. Each layer contributes hydration or nourishment without overwhelming the skin.

Because the formulas are designed to be lightweight and absorbable, they tend to feel comfortable even when multiple steps are used. The result is skin that feels hydrated and balanced rather than coated in heavy products.

For those exploring the best Korean skincare, this layering approach offers the flexibility to tailor a routine to individual skin types and concerns. Some people prefer a simplified routine, while others enjoy experimenting with additional treatments such as ampoules or masks.

Innovative ingredients and formulations

Korean skincare brands are widely recognised for their dedication to research and ingredient innovation. Laboratories regularly explore new textures, delivery systems and botanical extracts that enhance product performance while remaining gentle on the skin.

Ingredients such as centella asiatica, fermented extracts, snail mucin and green tea are frequently used for their soothing or hydrating properties. These ingredients are valued for how they support the skin barrier rather than aggressively altering the skin’s structure.

Modern K-beauty brands also experiment with advanced dermatological ingredients such as peptides, niacinamide and mild exfoliating acids. When carefully balanced within formulations, these ingredients can help refine texture or improve the appearance of uneven skin tone without causing unnecessary irritation.

Brands like Medicube skincare reflect this blend of innovation and practicality. Many products are designed with targeted concerns in mind while still aligning with the broader Korean philosophy of maintaining healthy, balanced skin.

Personalisation and skin awareness

Korean skincare encourages people to develop a deeper awareness of their skin. Instead of relying on rigid routines, individuals are encouraged to adjust their products depending on seasonal changes, lifestyle factors or shifts in skin condition.

For example, during colder months, the focus may shift toward richer moisturising products, while warmer weather often calls for lighter hydrating layers. Similarly, if the skin becomes sensitive or irritated, soothing ingredients and simplified routines are commonly recommended.

This adaptability is one reason K-beauty continues to resonate with such a wide audience. The philosophy allows individuals to create routines that suit their unique skin rather than following a single universal formula.

A culture of inclusivity

Although Korean skincare gained international popularity through beauty trends and social media, its philosophy remains refreshingly inclusive. Healthy skin is not limited to a particular age, gender or skin type. The goal is simply to help people feel comfortable and confident in their own skin.

This inclusive perspective has helped K-beauty reach audiences around the world. Whether someone is beginning their first skincare routine or refining an existing one, the principles remain the same: gentle care, consistent habits and products that support the skin’s natural balance.

Ultimately, Korean skincare is less about chasing flawless results and more about building a routine that feels enjoyable and sustainable. With thoughtful products and a patient approach, skincare becomes part of a broader ritual of looking after oneself.

The post Korean skincare explained: The philosophy behind K-beauty appeared first on A Woman's Confidence.

So when I saw the Beauty of Joseon Daily Tinted Fluid Sunscreen SPF30 go viral on TikTok, I knew I had to pick it up. It was on sale for under £10 at the time – an offer that was too good to refuse! Content creators praised the SPF for delivering a ‘your skin but better’ effect, with videos showing the product evening out complexions and leaving a gorgeous glow.

But does the Beauty of Joseon tinted sunscreen live up to the hype? In this review, I share my honest experience of using it, along with before and after photos.

Get 20% off Beauty of Joseon at LookFantastic with LFTFBLOGSARAH. Shop here!

*This post contains some affiliate links. This means, at no extra cost to you, I earn some commission if you purchase a product through my link. All thoughts are my own, though, as always. If you want to find out more, visit my affiliate disclosure page*

About the Beauty of Joseon Daily Tinted Fluid Sunscreen SPF30

The Beauty of Joseon Daily Tinted Fluid Sunscreen SPF30 is a mineral SPF designed to provide sheer skin-like coverage. It promises to be lightweight, hydrating, and silky.

The sunscreen combines the benefits of skincare, sun protection, and a skin tint for a hassle-free and quick complexion step. It’s non-streaky, leaves skin fresh and luminous, and buildable. It comes in 12 shades that promise to adapt to different skin tones, from light to deep.

Some of the key ingredients include:

• Zinc oxide: broad-spectrum mineral UV filter
• Butyloctyl salicylate: softens skin
• Isopropyl myristate: softens and soothes skin
• Caprylic/capric triglyceride: helps skin resist water loss
• Propanediol: makes skin look smooth and dewy

The Beauty of Joseon Daily Tinted Fluid Sunscreen SPF30 costs just £13.43 for 50ml at LookFantastic with LFTFBLOGSARAH. Shop here!

Before and after: 8-hour wear test

Below are 3 before-and-after photos: 1 without the tinted SPF, 1 taken immediately after applying the SPF, and 1 after 8 hours of wear. These photos were taken on the same day and in the same room. I applied the tinted sunscreen directly over my usual morning skincare routine.

The tinted SPF evens out my complexion, as some of the redness around my nose and cheeks is minimised. It also gives my skin a nice glow, and it doesn’t look greasy, patchy, or streaky.

After 8 hours, the product wears exceptionally well. There was very little fading, and my complexion still looked even, fresh, and luminous. From applying the product immediately to 8 hours later, there’s hardly any difference! I love that my skin still looks like skin.

Honest Beauty of Joseon tinted SPF review

I’m impressed with the Beauty of Joseon tinted mineral sunscreen!

The thin nozzle makes it easy to squeeze out the right amount of SPF. I always use the 2-finger rule when applying sunscreen, but this is the sort of formula where you can apply more product if necessary, and it’ll never pill, go streaky, or feel heavy on the skin.

As you apply the formula, it feels silky smooth, blends seamlessly, and applies flexible and sheer coverage. This is very much a ‘your skin but better’ product. It makes my complexion more even and glowy, but it still looks natural. I got the shade LN110, and it’s a perfect match for my skin tone.

I also like that this tinted sunscreen feels hydrating.

Mineral SPFs are known for often being heavy, leaving a white cast, or looking greasy on the skin, as mineral UV filters are typically thicker than their chemical UV counterparts. Thankfully, the Beauty of Joseon Daily Tinted Fluid Sunscreen SPF30 feels lightweight, non-sticky, and provides a nice skin-like tint.

The only downside to this tinted sunscreen is that it doesn’t dry down fully. If you blow your nose or touch your face, for example, the product will transfer. I don’t think this is a big deal, as you can reapply the SPF without any worry of it looking patchy or feeling gross on your skin. However, it’s something to be mindful of, as I can imagine in warmer weather, oilier skin may find this formula to be a bit too wet.

Rating: 4.5 stars

Overall, I think the Beauty of Joseon tinted SPF provides lightweight, natural, and buildable coverage while feeling hydrating and protecting your skin from UV rays. It’s a fantastic low-maintenance complexion product that you can wear alone or with makeup. I’d happily repurchase.

Get 20% off Beauty of Joseon at LookFantastic with LFTFBLOGSARAH. Shop here!

The post I tried this TikTok-viral tinted SPF for under £10, but is it worth the hype? appeared first on A Woman's Confidence.

*This post contains some affiliate links. This means, at no extra cost to you, I earn some commission if you purchase a product through my link. All thoughts are my own, though, as always. If you want to find out more, visit my affiliate disclosure page*

1. Drunk Elephant

Get 20% off Drunk Elephant at LookFantastic with LFTFBLOGSARAH. Shop here!

Drunk Elephant has become synonymous with effective, non‑irritating skincare. Founded by Tiffany Masterson, the brand focuses on biocompatible ingredients that support your skin’s natural ecosystem. Drunk Elephant, which is cruelty-free, focuses on science-backed active ingredients that make your skin look and feel healthy. I’ve loved every single product I’ve tried from Drunk Elephant!

Why it’s worth trying: A balanced blend of actives and skin‑friendly ingredients.

Hero products: T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum and D-Bronzi Bronzing Drops

Price range: Mid to premium

2. Tatcha

Founded by Vicky Tsai, Tatcha blends traditional Japanese beauty practices with modern science. Its formulas are cruelty-free, gentle, luxurious, and sensorial. Tatacha’s products always have exceptional and expensive packaging, feel amazing on the skin, and spotlight Japanese botanicals with clinically-backed ingredients. I’m a huge fan of the brand’s moisturisers, which are worth the premium price tag.

Why it’s worth trying: Hydration, elegance, and rich ritual heritage.

Hero products: The Water Cream and The Dewy Skin Cream

Price range: Premium

3. Glow Recipe

Get 15% off Drunk Elephant at Sephora with SARAHSSPH. Shop here!

Created by Sarah Lee and Christine Chang, Glow Recipe embodies the fun, fruit-forward side of K-beauty with hydrating and glow-boosting formulas. These products are aesthetic, focus on dewy skin, and frequently go viral on TikTok for their standout, cutesy, and vibrant packaging. Glow Recipe is also vegan and cruelty-free. To this day, Glow Recipe’s Watermelon Glow PHA+BHA Pore-Tight Toner is still one of my favourite exfoliating toners.

Why it’s worth trying: Glowy skin with a fresh take on skincare.

Hero products: Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops and Watermelon Glow PHA+BHA Pore-Tight Toner

Price range: Mid

4. Summer Fridays

Get 15% off Summer Fridays at Sephora with SARAHSSPH. Shop here!

Founded by Marianna Hewitt and Lauren Gores, Summer Fridays focuses on simple, effective products that make skin feel cared for and hydrated. Summer Fridays’ products focus on versatility, highlighting natural beauty and multipurpose use. These products simplify your beauty routines and ensure your skin looks and feels its best. Summer Fridays is vegan and cruelty-free.

Why it’s worth trying: Perfect for minimalists.

Hero products: Jet Lag Mask and Lip Butter Balm

Price range: Mid

5. Paula’s Choice

Founded by Paula Begoun, Paula’s Choice pioneered accessible, science-forward skincare with a focus on evidence-based formulations. Products are cruelty-free and backed by extensive independent research and consumer testing to deliver proven results, time and time again. As well as its clinical formulas, the Paula’s Choice skincare ingredients dictionary is a go-to resource for everything you need to know about particular skincare ingredients.

Why it’s worth trying: Proven formulas and clear guidance.

Hero product: Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Price range: Mid

6. Kate Somerville

Get 15% off Kate Somerville at Sephora with SARAHSSPH. Shop here!

Created by aesthetician Kate Somerville, this brand mirrors clinic-grade skincare designed to tackle congestion and dullness. Also founded by Kate, the Kate Somerville Medical Esthetics Skin Clinic has been a hub of skincare innovation for the past 20 years to deliver visible, clinical-grade results. Kate Somerville‘s line of high-performance skincare products is designed to safely deliver clinic results at home. Her products feel premium, have glorious textures, and are kind to your skin. Kate Somerville is cruelty-free.

Why it’s worth trying: Results-driven and high-performance.

Hero products: ExfoliKate Cleanser and ExfoliKate Glow Moisturizer 

Price range: Premium

7. Pestle & Mortar

Founded by Sonia Deasy, Pestle & Mortar is minimalist and effective, offering hydrating staples suitable for sensitive skin. Pestle & Mortar’s formulas are designed to work for all skin types and are inspired by Indian natural healing. The brand is cruelty-free and vegan.

Why it’s worth trying: Gentle, hydrating essentials.

Hero products: Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum and Hydrate Lightweight Moisturiser

Price range: Mid to premium

8. Beauty Pie

Created by Marcia Kilgore, Beauty Pie delivers luxury skincare formulas through an accessible membership model. Instead of paying premium price tags, Beauty Pie members get access to beauty products formulated in world-leading labs for great prices. There are tonnes of fantastic formulas available. The Plantastic Apricot Butter Cleansing Balm is still one of the best cleansing balms I’ve used!

Why it’s worth trying: High-end formulas at better prices.

Hero products: Triple Hyaluronic Acid and Youthbomb 360° Radiance Concentrate Serum

Price range: Affordable to mid

9. Maysama

Get 10% off Maysama with SARAH10. Shop here!

Founded by Bev May, Maysama focuses on antioxidant-rich green rooibos technology to soothe and protect. All of Maysama’s products are vegan and cruelty-free, and the brand focuses on advanced LED light therapy solutions, healthy skin, and meeting the needs of all skin types and tones. I adore every Maysama product I’ve tried, as they genuinely deliver excellent and visible results.

Why it’s worth trying: Unique antioxidant-led approach.

Hero products: ABP11+ Green Rooibos Gentle Resurfacing Toner and Head2Heart LED Combo

Price range: Mid

10. Sachi Skin

Created by Farah Bashir, Sachi Skin offers dermatology-led formulas that focus on inclusivity, especially for melanated and sensitive skin. Sachi Skin blends the heritage of Ayurvedic healing botanicals and the precision of advanced dermatology to deliver visible, clinically proven results. The brand is vegan and cruelty-free.

Why it’s worth trying: Barrier-friendly and targeted actives.

Hero product: Triphala Pigmentation Corrector

Price range: Mid to premium

11. Alpha-H

Founded by Michelle Doherty, Alpha-H is known globally for its transformative resurfacing products. This cruelty-free skincare brand takes a straightforward approach to skincare routines with minimalistic formulas that are designed to keep skin healthy, without any fuss.

Why it’s worth trying: Reliable chemical exfoliation.

Hero product: Liquid Gold with 5% Glycolic Acid

Price range: Mid

12. ARK Skincare

Co-founded by Tamsin Styles, ARK Skincare creates age-adapted formulas based on real actives. This vegan and cruelty-free brand offers a large range of products, all with fantastic ingredients that are sure to target your skin concerns. I’ve tried loads of ARK Skincare products and am impressed with most of them.

Why it’s worth trying: Thoughtful age-intelligent skincare.

Hero products: Skin Perfector Radiance Serum and Age Defy Nourishing Moisturiser 

Price range: Mid

13. Beauty of Joseon

Get 20% off Beauty of Joseon at LookFantastic with LFTFBLOGSARAH. Shop here!

Founded by Sumin Lee, Beauty of Joseon blends traditional Hanbang ingredients with modern skincare science. This popular cruelty-free Korean skincare brand is known for creating glowy, gentle, and moisturising products that look and feel amazing on your skin. I love that even though these products are very reasonably priced, they deliver the same results as many premium brands. I’m obsessed with the Beauty of Joseon SPFs. They’re the best!

Why it’s worth trying: Lightweight, gentle, and heritage-inspired.

Hero products: Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh and Dynasty Cream

Price range: Affordable to mid

14. Haruharu Wonder

Get 20% off Haruharu Wonder at LookFantastic with LFTFBLOGSARAH. Shop here!

Founded by Jae Won Jeong, Haruharu Wonder is best known for fermented black rice formulas that hydrate and soothe. This K-beauty brand offers vegan, cruelty-free, and skin barrier-friendly products. Its products are designed to fit in seamlessly with everyday routines while being gentle, simple, effective, and affordable. I love Haruharu Wonder, as it delivers standout formulas.

Why it’s worth trying: Gentle antioxidant-rich hydration.

Hero product: Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner for Sensitive Skin and Black Rice Probiotics Barrier Essence

Price range: Affordable to mid

15. Tea & Tonic

Founded by Sarah Strang, Tea & Tonic blends adaptogens and botanical actives for holistic skincare. This natural-led skincare brand boasts carefully selected British-grown actives to deliver specific nutrients for unique, effective, and interesting products. All products are vegan and cruelty-free.

Why it’s worth trying: Beautiful botanical blends.

Hero product: Saving Grace Balance Facial Oil

Price range: Mid

The post 15 female-founded skincare brands you need to know about appeared first on A Woman's Confidence.

Beauty of Joseon is a popular cruelty-free Korean brand that combines Hanbang-infused skincare with clinically effective ingredients. Hanbang is a traditional Korean medicine based on natural ingredients with therapeutic properties, such as ginseng, green plum, propolis, and mugwort.

Today, the brand is known for creating glowy, gentle, and moisturising products that look and feel amazing on your skin. In this honest Beauty of Joseon review, I share my thoughts on the 11 products I’ve tried to let you know whether it’s worth checking out.

Get 20% off Beauty of Joseon at LookFantastic with LFTFBLOGSARAH. Shop now!

*This post contains some affiliate links. This means that at no extra cost to you, I earn some commission if you purchase a product through my link. All thoughts are my own, though, as always. If you want to find out more, visit my affiliate disclosure page*

Which Haruharu Wonder skincare products are in this review?

I’ve tried the following 11 Beauty of Joseon products:

1. Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5 SPF50+
2. Glow Replenishing Rice Milk Toner
3. Revive Eye Serum Ginseng + Retinal
4. Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser
5. Ground Rice and Honey Glow Mask
6. Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics SPF50
7. Ginseng Essence Water Toner
8. Dynasty Cream
9. Glow Serum Propolis + Niacinamide
10. Radiance Cleansing Balm
11. Green Plum Refreshing AHA + BHA Toner

Below, I’m going to share my honest thoughts on each product before moving on to an overall brand review.

Beauty of Joseon products review

1. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5 SPF50+

The Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5 SPF50+ is one of my all-time fave SPFs. This sunscreen made it into my best of 2025 beauty products list, as it’s just so good.

The Aqua-Fresh SPF50 offers broad-spectrum protection from UV rays in a lightweight, non-greasy, and completely invisible formula. It’s hydrating, keeps my skin comfortable all day, and has a lovely cooling sensation when applied. The SPF layers on top of skincare without pilling and sits nicely underneath makeup. In winter, it pairs perfectly with a more moisturising skincare routine, while still giving a nice glow. In summer, it never feels oily or like it’s melting off your face; instead, it stays perfectly fresh and can be reapplied without any issues.

Rating: 5 stars

It’s one of the best sun cream formulas I’ve ever tried. It’s a sunscreen I’ll always keep in my collection.

2. Beauty of Joseon Glow Replenishing Rice Milk Toner

The Beauty of Joseon Glow Replenishing Rice Milk Toner is a refreshing and lightweight toner that lightly hydrates skin. Compared to other milky toners I’ve tried, this one is quite a watery formula, which makes it versatile, as it can be paired with a heavier skincare routine during the winter but also with thinner products in warmer weather for a more oily skin-friendly vibe.

This toner keeps my skin moisturised and gives it a soft glow. However, it doesn’t excite me as much as the Laneige, Rhode, or Haruharu Wonder milky toners, which are more luscious, nourishing, and dewy.

Rating: 4 stars

It’s a good toner, but I wouldn’t repurchase.

3. Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum Ginseng + Retinal

The Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum Ginseng + Retinal is OK. I tried this eye cream several years ago, and it didn’t make an impression on me. It was hydrating, applied easily, and lightly moisturised my under-eye area. However, after using it, I didn’t see any difference in fine lines or brightness around my eyes, which is what I wanted from a retinol formula.

Rating: 3 stars

This eye cream is fine but didn’t deliver any noticeable results.

4. Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser

The Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser is a cooling and refreshing gel cleanser. Formulated AHA, this cleanser gently exfoliates the skin to reveal a brighter and smoother complexion. Despite exfoliaiting, my skin never feels stripped, tight, or dry after using it. Instead, my combination skin feels hydrated, looks even, and fully clean after using it. A grape-sized amount of product lathers easily and is enough to cleanse my entire face.

Rating: 4 stars

While I think this is a good cleanser, I’ve used others that I prefer.

5. Beauty of Joseon Ground Rice and Honey Glow Mask

The Beauty of Joseon Ground Rice and Honey Glow Mask is one of the best face masks I’ve used in a long time. This mask gently buffs away dead skin cells, without feeling harsh or abrasive, to instantly reveal a brighter, smoother, and clarified complexion. After using this mask, my skin feels so soft and nourished, while appearing visibly more luminous.

My oily t-zone also had noticeably less shine than usual and felt more comfortable after use, making it perfect for a wide range of skin types.

Rating: 5 stars

I look forward to using this face mask again, as it makes a noticeable and immediate difference to my skin.

See some of these Beauty of Joseon products in action in my Instagram reel below:

Get 20% off Beauty of Joseon at LookFantastic with LFTFBLOGSARAH. Shop now!

6. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics SPF50

The Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics SPF50 is Aqua-Fresh’s more nourishing and richer older sister. This one provides more radiance and moisture, yet it’s still lightweight, doesn’t give any white cast, and doesn’t pill. It plays nicely with other skincare products and underneath makeup, and it absorbs quickly.

For my combination skin, I’d typically use this in the winter for added hydration or I’d skip moisturiser altogether in the summer, as it provides enough hydration for my skin.

Rating: 4.5 stars

I just love the cooling and refreshing feeling of the Aqua-Fresh SPF that bit more. But both are excellent K-beauty sunscreens.

7. Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Essence Water Toner

The Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Essence Water Toner is a lightweight, watery, and rejuvenating toner that hydrates the skin. This gives a soft dewy look that makes my skin look healthy and plump. In the warmer months, I loved splashing this toner on my skin to cool it down, giving it a much-needed refresh, and top up my moisture levels throughout the day. It’s like a quenching drink for your skin!

Rating: 4.5 stars

Although I’ve been loving rich and sumptuous milky toners recently, refreshing toners are always a fantastic addition to my skincare routine, and this one is fab.

8. Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream

The Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream is a thick, luxurious, and nourishing moisturiser. Despite being rich and creamy, it’s actually surprisingly absorbent and never feels greasy, even on the oilier areas of my skin. This moisturiser keeps your skin hydrated all day without the need for top-ups and protects your skin’s barrier. The result? Glowy, soft, and healthy skin.

Rating: 5 stars

This is a great moisturiser for all skin types!

9. Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum Propolis + Niacinamide

The Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum Propolis + Niacinamide is a thick formula that makes your complexion look radiant and instantly awake. It absorbs quickly, helps even out your skin tone thanks to the niacinamide, and is a cheat code to instantly dewy skin. Although it does make your skin look radiant, it’s not the dewiest of serums out there. This provides more of a soft, skin-like glow than in your face juiciness.

Rating: 4 stars

Propolis works to make my skin look pump and feel nourished, which is a welcome bonus with this popular serum.

10. Beauty of Joseon Radiance Cleansing Balm

The Beauty of Joseon Radiance Cleansing Balm is one of the brand’s most-loved and viral products. This creamy cleansing balm gently and effortlessly melts makeup, SPF, dirt, and oil from your skin while leaving it feeling fresh, clean, and nourished. You really don’t have to do much massaging at all for this formula to lift makeup from your skin, and it’s even gentle around your eyes, so it won’t sting!

Rating: 5 stars

This is one of the best K-beauty cleansing balms, as it performs really well and leaves skin in an excellent condition. I have 0 complaints!

11. Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing AHA + BHA Toner

The Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing AHA + BHA Toner is a gently exfoliating, watery toner. The consistency is lightweight and runny, so it absorbs quickly into your skin. It feels refreshing, non-sticky, and hydrating.

As for the exfoliating element of this toner, it takes continued use to see any results, as it’s a gentle formula. Since using it for the last couple of months, my skin seems less oily, smoother, and some of my blackheads have reduced. However, I don’t think my skin looks brighter, feels smoother, or like I have a more even complexion.

Rating: 4 stars

Overall, it’s a good exfoliating toner, especially for sensitive skin, but I’ve used others that are better.

Overall Beauty of Joseon brand review

I think Beauty of Joseon is a good Korean skincare brand, especially for refreshing, gentle, and hydrating formulas. It offers affordable, lightweight, and easy-to-use formulas that never irritate my sensitive skin.

I particularly love the brand’s face mask, SPFs, and cleansing balm. They all work wonderfully to make my skin look radiant, feel soft and smooth, and fully protected. Beauty of Joseon is the brand to go for if you want reliable and effective formulas that work every single time.

Get 20% off Beauty of Joseon at LookFantastic with LFTFBLOGSARAH. Shop now!

The post Beauty of Joseon brand review appeared first on A Woman's Confidence.

LED light therapy masks have surged in popularity in the last few years. What used to only be available as a treatment from beauty salons is now available from the comfort of your own home, with many masks delivering excellent results and receiving a tonne of celebrity endorsements.

But not all LED masks are created equal, and they vary massively in terms of comfort, benefits, ease of use, and wavelength options.

I’ve been testing the Project E Beauty LumaLux Face Pro for the last 8 weeks. In this honest review, I share whether this LED mask is worth the money, how it compares with other LED masks I’ve tried, and my before and after results.

Get 15% off Project E Beauty with SARAH15. Shop today!

*This post contains some affiliate links. This means, at no extra cost to you, I earn some commission if you purchase a product through my link. All thoughts are my own, though, as always. If you want to find out more, visit my affiliate disclosure page*

What is Project E Beauty?

Project E Beauty is a trusted beauty tech brand with 12 years of expertise, collaborating with experts and aestheticians.

The company aims to make advanced beauty technology simple and effective. With science-backed tools and easy-to-use routines, the brand brings professional skincare results into everyday life. The result? Healthy, radiant, and youthful skin.

Meet the Project E Beauty LumaLux Face Pro

This part of the review explains the key features of the LumaLux Face Pro, what’s inside the box, which skin concerns it targets, the different treatment modes available, and how to use the device.

Key features at a glance

• 8 treatment modes
• 800 LEDs for maximum coverage
• Wireless and lightweight
• Quick 6-minute treatment time
• Flexible and comfortable silicone mask
• Integrated lip feature
• Built-in eye protection
• 5-hour charging time on first use

What’s in the box?

The box comes with the LED mask, a USB-C charging cable, controller, carry bag, owner’s manual, and the Project E Beauty Hyaluronic Acid Activating Serum.

LumaLux Face Pro benefits

Project E Beauty says that the LumaLux Face Pro mask is designed to support full skin rejuvenation and combat every common skin concern. The LED mask treats fine lines and wrinkles, blemishes, hyperpigmentation, dullness, redness, scarring, inflammation, soothes irritation, and boosts collagen production.

Wavelength modes and specifications

1. Red + infrared + deep infrared light wavelength: 630nm + 850nm + 1072nm – advanced phase collagen production
2. Infrared + deep infrared light wavelength: 850nm + 1072nm – smooths fine lines and wrinkles
3. Blue light wavelength: 460nm – treats and prevents blemishes and breakouts
4. Green light wavelength: 520nm – treats hyperpigmentation and balances skin tone
5. Purple light wavelength: 430nm + 630nm – soothes inflammation and scarring
6. Cyan light wavelength: 460nm + 520nm – soothes irritation
7. Yellow light wavelength: 630nm + 520nm – calms sensitive skin and reduces redness
8. White light wavelength: 460nm + 630nm + 520nm – combination of light improves overall skin health for total rejuvenation

How to use the device

Using the Project E Beauty LumaLux Face Pro is straightforward. Follow the steps below:

1. Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry
2. Connect the mask to the controller
3. Apply the Project E Beauty Hyaluronic Acid Activating Serum (optional)
4. Fit the device over your face and secure it
5. Press the power button for two seconds to activate the device
6. The default mode is red + infrared + deep infrared – to change press the mode button
7. After 6 minutes, the device will power down automatically
8. Take the mask off and apply your AM/PM skincare routine
9. Clean the device before and after use

Discount code and how to shop

The Project E Beauty LumaLux Face Pro retails for £309. With my exclusive discount code SARAH15, you can get 15% off the LED mask, making it just £262.65. Buy the LumaLux Face Pro here.

Using the LumaLux Face Pro: My honest experience

In this section, I share my results after using the Project E Beauty LED Mask. I’m 30 with combination sensitive skin. I have a few fine lines around my eyes and forehead. I’ve also got rosacea, which is largely under control but presents itself when I get warm, such as when I’m around central heating or after a workout.

How I added it to my routine

Adding the LumaLux Face Pro to my skincare routine was easy. You’re advised to use the device 3-5 times a week. I used the device 3 times a week as part of my evening skincare routine.

I cycled between 2 modes: Red + infrared + deep infrared light and yellow light wavelength.

After completing my session, I applied my usual evening skincare routine: toner, serum, night cream, and sometimes a facial oil.

Comfort and ease of use

The Project E Beauty LumaLux Face Pro is comfortable to wear and very easy to use. The instructions in the owner’s manual are clear and straightforward.

One of my biggest gripes with a lot of LED masks is how long each treatment session takes. A lot of them require 10 minutes per session. I know this doesn’t sound like much, but it becomes inconvenient. After a while, I end up forgetting about these LED masks, as they don’t easily slot into my routine.

Thankfully, the LumaLux Face Pro only requires a 6-minute session, which is convenient and way more manageable. I found it easy to integrate this mask into my skincare routine without it feeling like a hassle.

It’s also very comfortable. The silicone mask is flexible and lightweight. I’ve tried other LED masks that are made from a hard plastic and are quite heavy, which causes discomfort after a while. The built-in eye protection with the LumaLux Face Pro is a welcome addition.

I wish the straps were adjustable, though. The LED mask is too big for my head. While you can just place the Velcro straps higher (towards the crown of your head) so it fits better, having adjustable straps would make the fit better.

My results after 8 weeks

I initially used the LumaLux Face Pro for 4 weeks but didn’t see any noticeable results. After 8 weeks of consistent use, I began seeing results. I also increased several of my session times to 6 minutes, which is recommended by the brand if you want to see faster results.

Overall, I’ve seen some improvements in my skin. The fine lines on my forehead and around my eyes have slightly decreased. There’s also less persistent redness on my cheeks since using the device, which I’m grateful for. Although using the LED mask has not reduced how often I get rosacea flare-ups.

Would I say my skin has been completely rejuvenated and looks more radiant than before? No. But has the mask helped ease redness and reduce fine lines, so I’ll keep using it.

Before and after photos

Below are my before and after photos after using the LumaLux Face Pro for 8 weeks:

Get 15% off Project E Beauty with SARAH15. Shop today!

How it compares with other LED masks I’ve tried

Compared to other LED masks I’ve tried, the LumaLux Face Pro is one of the best.

It’s more comfortable to wear than the Lustre ClearSkin Renew Pro Facewear and is also cheaper. Project E Beauty’s mask gave better and more noticeable results than Lustre ClearSkin’s mask.

The LumaLux Pro is comparable to the CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Face Mask: Series 2. Both of these LED masks are lightweight, flexible, and comfortable. CurrentBody Skin’s version had a better effect on my rosacea, while Project E Beauty’s mask reduced the fine lines on my skin.

The LumaLux Face Pro is also much better than the brand’s original (and now discontinued) Photon Skin Rejuvenation Face & Neck Mask, which became quite uncomfortable to wear and required longer treatment sessions.

Final verdict: Is the Project E Beauty LumaLux Face Pro worth it?

The Project E Beauty LumaLux Face Pro is absolutely worth it! For those seeking a customisable, flexible, and convenient skincare routine with noticeable results, this LED mask delivers a tonne of skin benefits, which you can tailor to your own goals.

Rating: 4.5 stars

This mask is also great for travelling, as it’s lightweight and the battery lasts for around 32 sessions. It’s a device I’d bring with me for a long weekend away somewhere. The only caveat is to be vigilant with SPF after using this LED mask, as it can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays.

The post Project E Beauty LumaLux Face Pro review (with before and after photos) appeared first on A Woman's Confidence.

The Perricone MD Face Finishing & Firming Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30 is one of the brand’s most iconic and best-selling products. This popular tinted moisturiser offers broad-spectrum UV ray protection, gives skin a luminous and bronzed tint, and claims to be lightweight and hydrating.

Typically, I’m not a fan of tinted moisturisers, as I find a lot of them pill or get patchy around my hairline. A lot of the ones containing SPF tend to sit heavily on my skin or irritate my rosacea.

So just how good is Perricone MD’s tinted moisturiser? In this honest review, I share my experience of using this product.

Get 20% off Perricone MD with PMD20. Shop here!

*This post contains some affiliate links. This means, at no extra cost to you, I earn some commission if you purchase a product through my link. All thoughts are my own, though, as always. If you want to find out more, visit my affiliate disclosure page*

About the Perricone MD tinted moisturiser

The Perricone MD Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30 is a mineral-based sunscreen housed in a lightweight, hydrating moisturiser. It claims to be oil-free, non-tacky, fast-absorbing, and suitable for all skin types.

This moisturiser contains pigment-filled capsules that slowly release upon application for a subtle bronzed and glowy finish. It promises to leave skin protected, silky smooth, soft, and nourished.

Something to be mindful of is that this moisturiser contains perfume. It has a soft velvety rose scent that doesn’t linger on the skin once applied. I personally like fragranced skincare and haven’t had any issues with it thus far, but it’s something to be cautious of if you have sensitive skin.

Some of the key ingredients include:

• Titanium dioxide: a sensitive skin-friendly mineral-based filter that protects against both UVA and UVB rays
• Glycerin: hydrates skin
• Hydrogenated lecithin: conditions and restores the skin
• Bisabolol: soothes skin
• Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate: a stable form of vitamin C offering excellent antioxidant protection
• Alpha lipoic acid ( thioctic acid): a great antioxidant

The Perricone MD tinted moisturiser costs £64 for 59ml. However, with the discount code PMD20, you can get the moisturiser for just £51.20. Shop here.

Honest Perricone MD Face Finishing & Firming Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30 review

I like the Perricone MD Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30.

This moisturiser is quite thick, but it doesn’t feel heavy on the skin and absorbs quickly. Many mineral SPF formulas have a thick and sticky consistency, which isn’t pleasant, but this one is lightweight. Thanks to this, you can layer this moisturiser as much as you want without it pilling, going tacky, or feeling greasy.

I’m a big fan of the tinted element of this moisturiser. It immediately makes my skin look bronzed and radiant but still natural. It also doesn’t aggravate my rosacea, which I often experience with SPFs, especially inherently heavier ones.

Here’s what the tinted moisturiser looks like as soon as I’ve applied it to my skin:

On the negative side, I don’t like that this tinted moisturiser collects around the hairline throughout the day; it ends up looking patchy, so I avoid applying it near my hairline as best as I can.

As for the moisturising element of this cream, it’s decent but nothing special. It hydrates my skin and keeps it protected throughout the day. Without the mineral SPF part of this cream, it’s not worth £64, as the feeling of the moisturiser on my skin doesn’t have that luxurious, silky sensation.

Rating: 4 stars

Overall, this is a good tinted moisturiser. The tinted mineral SPF element to this cream is surprisingly lightweight and leaves my skin luminous, non-greasy, and bronzed. I wouldn’t describe this as a ‘must have’ product, but more of a ‘nice to have’ product.

The post Perricone MD Face Finishing & Firming Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30 review appeared first on A Woman's Confidence.

As 2025 is over, I’m sharing some of the best hair, skincare, body, fragrance, and makeup products from the year.

These are the products that I’m reaching for the most. They improve the look and feel of my skin, add lots of volume and body to my hair, facilitate gorgeous makeup looks, and ensure I smell incredible all day long. I had a hard time narrowing down this list to my faves, as I tried loads of excellent products in 2025, but here are my beauty must-haves.

*This post contains some affiliate links. This means, at no extra cost to you, I earn some commission if you purchase a product through my link. All thoughts are my own, though, as always. If you want to find out more, visit my affiliate disclosure page*

The Valentino Born In Roma Donna Extradose Parfum (20% off at LookFantastic with LFTFBLOGSARAH) is a gorgeous perfume. With notes of vanilla, jasmine, cassis accord, and rhum accord, this perfume is sweet, slightly floral, and romantic. It’s elegant and is the type of perfume you can wear for any occasion, as it’s not overpowering. This perfume lasts all day without fading. I’m obsessed.

The Victoria Beckham Beauty Lid Lustre is one of my favourite shimmery single eyeshadows. They’re creamy, insanely pigmented, easy to blend, and come in a beautiful range of shades. You can pack on intense colour to your eyelids by using your fingertips, or use a fluffy eyeshadow brush to diffuse the colour for a softer shimmery look. From golden olive and warm rose gold to navy blue and silver chrome, the shades look expensive. These are perfect ‘one and done’ shadows that deliver incredible results every time. I frequently reach for them.

The Redken Volume Injection Shampoo (20% off at LookFantastic with LFTFBLOGSARAH) is one of the best shampoos for adding volume and lift to my hair. This shampoo makes my hair look fuller and thicker, while preventing my scalp from getting oily as quickly. A little bit of product goes a long way.

The Redken Volume Injection Conditioner (20% off at LookFantastic with LFTFBLOGSARAH) is an excellent conditioner for adding volume to my scalp without weighing my hair down or making it greasy. This conditioner ensures my hair stays moisturised and healthy, all while giving it extra body.

The Laneige Cream Skin Cerapeptide Toner and Moisturiser (20% off at LookFantastic with LFTFBLOGSARAH) is my fave milky toner. It adds moisture, hydration, and dewiness to my skin instantly, without making my skin oily. This toner instantly refreshes my skin; it’s a cheat code to healthy skin in a bottle and absolutely worth the hype.

The Sculpted by Aimee LashLift has quickly become one of my fave mascaras. It adds effortless length and lift to my lashes without looking clumpy or flaking. It’s pretty smudge-proof, too. I love that the formula is lightweight, separates lashes, and delivers length with just 1 coat. I’ve got this mascara in Ultra-Black and Rich Brown, and both shades are stunning.

The Wavytalk Blowout Boost (25% off with Sarah25) is my first foray into thermal brushes, and I wish I’d tried it sooner. This heated brush allows you to easily get a ’90s blowout hairstyle, add volume to your hair, or get smooth waves. It heats up quickly and allows you to get salon-worthy results at home. Obsessed.

The Rhode Pocket Blush is a beautiful and versatile formula. Whether you apply the blush directly to your cheeks and lips, use a brush, or use your fingertips, it will blend easily and never look overdone. I find this blush works best when warmed on the back of my hand, and then using a brush to pick up the product from my hand and diffuse across my cheeks. This blush has a soft matte, skin-like finish that gives skin a natural flush of colour. The shade range is gorgeous. Sleepy Girl (a soft mauve) and Toasted Teddy (a bronze terracotta) are my go-to shades.

The Kate Somerville ExfoliKate® Cleanser Daily Foaming Wash (20% off at LookFantastic with LFTFBLOGSARAH) is fantastic. This cleanser makes my skin feel clean, fresh, hydrated, and smooth after use. As the exfoliation comes in a cleanser form, this is more tolerable for sensitive skin, as the formula is washed off your skin, which makes it great for those looking to introduce an exfoliator into their skincare routine without damaging their skin’s barrier. This cleanser foams easily, so a little bit of product goes a long way. My complexion looks brighter and more even after using this cleanser.

The Lancôme Rénergie H.C.F Triple Serum is an expensive and innovative serum that’s worth the money. It contains skin-loving ingredients like ferulic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid to smooth, brighten, and moisturise the skin. It’s also designed to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Since using this serum, my skin looks more radiant and feels firmer.

The Lancôme Rénergie H.P.N. UVMUNE SPF50 Cream is one of my fave moisturisers in recent years. It’s rich, luxurious, and thick. Yet, despite being ultra-nourishing, it never feels heavy or greasy. Instead, it melts into the skin easily and provides long-lasting hydration. Some moisturisers containing SPF feel like they never absorb into the skin and just sit on top in a heavy, clogging way. This one smooths into the skin like a breeze, thanks to the plumping peptide complex.

The ONE/SIZE On ‘Til Dawn Mattifying Waterproof Setting Spray is perfect for locking makeup into place. If I’m wearing makeup for over 6 hours or want my base to stay perfectly in place, this setting spray is my go-to. It means my makeup won’t budge and will look fresh all day. I love how fine the mister is on this setting spray, as it ensures even distribution of the product across my face.

The Kiehl’s Ultra Body Mega Moisture Squalane Cream balances being lightweight and absorbent, alongside delivering long-lasting nourishment. After using this on my feet, which can get quite dry and cracked after swimming, this helps repair any soreness and soothe dryness for soft, supple skin.

The Jones Road Gel Liner is creamy, which means it doesn’t drag across the eyelids on application or feel drying. It glides on seamlessly and doesn’t budge once applied. The gel liner foolproof to use, as you can achieve smooth, precise lines, without it wobbling or smudging. I’ve got the shade Navy, which adds a subtle touch of colour to eye makeup for a sophisticated look.

The Kayali Lovefest Burning Cherry | 48 (15% off at Sephora with SARAHSSPH) has quickly become one of my fave gourmand scents. This cherry fragrance has an elevated and complex fragrance profile, with notes like caramelised praline, patchouli, palo santo, and guaiac wood. On paper, I wouldn’t opt for this perfume, as I don’t tend to like woody fragrances, but this one smells balanced, sophisticated, and not overpowering. I love it.

The Skinfood Rice Brightening Pad (money off YesStyle with CONFIDENCE10) is a toner pad that’s worth investing in. These sumptuous toner pads make skin hydrated, look glowy, and feel refreshed. Rice pore complex helps restore elasticity and tighten the skin, PHA gently exfoliates the skin, and niacinamide helps brighten the complexion and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores. After using these toner pads, my skin instantly looks and feels better.

The By Beauty Bay Desert Haze 20 Colour Palette is a colour story that instantly stood out to me, with fiery coppers and golds, royal blue, earthy khakis and browns, stunning rose golds, and soft beige sandy tones. Although this palette is cheap, the shadows feel expensive. The mattes are soft and buttery with minimal fallout, while the shimmers are fiercly pigmented and deliver a range of shimmer intensities to create a diverse range of looks. I reach for this palette quite regularly at the moment.

The MAC Lustreglass Lipstick in Alone Time is a unique cool-toned lipstick. I don’t always suit cool-toned lipsticks, as they can wash me out and appear greyish on my complexion, but Alone Time is wearable. It’s a pretty mauve brown that will work with just about any neutral or cool-toned makeup look. The formula is smoothing, flattering, sheer, and buildable. It makes lips look glossy and keeps them hydrated. 

The Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Probiotics Barrier Essence (20% off at LookFantastic with LFTFBLOGSARAH) is another excellent milky toner. This formula is richer and more nourishing than the Laneige one in this best beauty products of 2025 list, which makes it ideal for drier skin or in colder weather. The toner is ultra-hydrating and seals in moisture all day. It also makes my skin look radiant, feel soft and smooth, and removes the need for a thick moisturiser.

The Haus Labs Color Fuse Longwear Glassy Lip + Cheek Stick is perfect for when I want a glossy cheek look. This gorgeous formula blends effortlessly. Whether I’m after a saturated pop of glassy colour or a more subtle flush of colour, this stick blush will work. It removes the need for a highlighter, as it provides a glowy non-shimmery finish, which is flattering and never clings to skin texture. The shade range is phenomenal, offering pretty lilacs, berries, nude browns, peaches, and soft pinks. This is one of my fave blushes of all time.

The TYMO CurlGo is a great styling tool for soft, bouncy curls or silky waves. Although I wish the curls lasted longer, I love the results: elegant, classy curls with minimal effort. The curler does all of the hard work for you, as the barrel auto-rotates your hair in the wand. Once you get the hang of using the device, the CurlGo truly is easy to use.

The Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5 SPF50+ (20% off at LookFantastic with LFTFBLOGSARAH) is one of the best sunscreens I’ve ever tried. No white cast, no sticky feeling, and it absorbs instantly. It’s lightweight, hydrating, and refreshing. It layers over skincare products without pilling and sits underneath makeup without disturbing it. This SPF50 also has a cooling sensation on application, so it’s refreshing to use on a hot day. I’d repurchase this in an instant.

The post The best beauty products of 2025 appeared first on A Woman's Confidence.

I’ve pulled together a clear, concise list so you can shop quickly without digging through endless pages of promotions. These are the best offers live right now across K-beauty, skincare, makeup, haircare, and beauty tech.

*This post contains some affiliate links. This means, at no extra cost to you, I earn some commission if you purchase a product through my link. All thoughts are my own, though, as always. If you want to find out more, visit my affiliate disclosure page*

Luxury & Premium Beauty Deals

• Victoria Beckham Beauty — 20% off sitewide Shop now
• Charlotte Tilbury — 25% off everything Shop now
• Pat McGrath Labs — up to 40% off Shop now
• Kiehl’s — up to 30% off everything Shop now
• Medik8 — up to 25% off everything Shop now
• Clinique — up to 30% off Shop now

Retailers With the Biggest Savings

• Space NK — up to 25% off Shop now
• Sephora UK — up to 30% off Shop now
• LookFantastic — 30% off almost everything Shop now
• Beauty Bay — up to 50% off Shop now
• Cult Beauty — 30% off almost eveything Shop now

Skincare Deals

• Dermatica — up to 30% off routine essentials Shop now
• ARK Skincare — up to 70% off Shop now
• Avant Skincare — up to 30% off Shop now
• Murad — 30% off Shop now
• Paula’s Choice — up to 30% off Shop now
• ESPA — up to 50% off, including Christmas, plus a free mini (use code ESPABFMINI) Shop now
• Perricone MD — 25% off almost everything plus an extra 5% (use code CYBERXPMD) Shop now
• Maysama — up to 50% off everything Shop now

K-Beauty Deals

• YesStyle — up to 60% off Shop now
• Refresh Skincare UK — up to 50% off Shop now
• StyleVana — up to 50% off Shop now

Makeup Deals

• Jones Road — up to 25% off Shop now
• Sculpted By Aimee — up to 30% off Shop now
• Glossier — 25% almost everything Shop now
• REFY — 25% off everything Shop now

Haircare & Styling Deals

• Christophe Robin — up to 40% off selected products Shop now
• TYMO — 30% off Shop now
• Wavytalk — up to 40% off Shop now
• ghd — up to 30% off Shop now

Beauty Tech Deals

• FOREO — up to 50% off Shop now
• Project E Beauty — up to 30% off Shop now
• Irresistible Me — up to 80% off Shop now

Bodycare & Lifestyle Beauty

• The Body Shop — 30% off everything Shop now
• Wild Deodorant — 30% off everything Shop now
• Self Glow by James Read — 25% off Shop now
• Nursem — up to 25% off Shop now

The post The best Black Friday beauty deals 2025 — Your ultimate UK edit appeared first on A Woman's Confidence.

I’m always on the hunt for interesting beauty brands. From innovative independent skincare brands and female-founded brands to viral products and trendy new items, if something looks exciting to me, I’m willing to spend money on it.

I stumbled across LIHA Beauty online. This black-owned and female-founded brand harnesses the power of African beauty secrets to create an array of products that smell amazing, nourish the skin, and contain high-quality ingredients. The brand is cruelty-free and celebrates the founders’, Abi and Liha, Yoruba and British heritage.

The brand’s beautiful message really stood out to me. Plus, after LIHA Beauty appeared on Dragons’ Den, I knew I had to purchase a selection of products. Despite not securing an investment from the Dragons, I was intrigued, especially as the Dragons all noted how great the products are.

In this honest review, I share my thoughts on whether LIHA Beauty is worth it, with a closer look at the products’ ingredients, textures, and efficacy.

Products in this review

4 LIHA Beauty products are featured in this review:

1. Oju Omi Mud Cleanser
2. Idan Oil
3. Orinrin Cleansing Balm
4. Osé Gidi Black Soap

Below, I review each product individually before sharing my overall thoughts on this black-owned beauty brand.

1. Oju Omi Mud Cleanser

£34 for 50ml

The LIHA Beauty Oju Omi Mud Cleanser can be used as either a cleanser or a face mask. As a daily cleanser, it has a fun mud-to-milk formula that promises to deeply cleanse the skin, without stripping, irritating, or drying it out. As a mud mask, apply it to dry skin, leave it for 10-20 minutes, and then rinse it off. The result from either method is hydrated, balanced, clean, and smooth skin.

Key ingredients include:

• Agave syrup: nourishes skin
• Kaolin: a clay mineral with absorbent properties that help reduce excess oil on the skin
• Moroccan lava clay: exfoliates the skin but can be a bit abrasive
• Marula oil: moisturises skin
• Molasses: LIHA Beauty says molasses is hydrating, gently exfoliating, and calms redness

This mud cleanser has a thick, creamy, and slightly gritty texture. It feels rich and luxurious. It has an earthy scent, but it’s fragrance-free. I love the consistency and smell of this cleanser; it gives spa day vibes.

As a cleanser, I initially used this as a second cleanse. However, it’s rich, exfoliating, and leaves a slightly oily residue, so I think it performs better as the first cleanse in your evening skincare routine.

The mud-to-milk formula is satisfying, as it effortlessly rinses off once emulsified. This performs more like a physical exfoliator, as there are some small particles that scrub your skin. I find this a bit abrasive. While the cleanser doesn’t cause redness in my skin, it does leave it feeling a bit stripped. Although this leaves my skin feeling soft, clean, and smooth, I still prefer using a traditional cleanser formula, such as a gel, oil, or balm.

This product works better as an exfoliating mud mask. After using it, my skin feels less oily, smoother, and hydrated, while also appearing brighter. It feels as though it’s really working to unclog my pores, helps get rid of stubborn blackheads, and leaves my skin in great condition. However, dry skin might find the mask too drying, due to the clays.

Rating: 4 stars

While I’ve used other cleansers that I prefer, I think this is an excellent face mask, especially for oily skin.

2. Idan Oil

£42 for 100ml

The LIHA Beauty Idan Oil is designed to deeply nourish and soften skin, while giving it a gorgeous glow. This innovative oil starts off as a solid balm at room temperature, but it transforms into a liquid when warmed. You can warm the oil up by rinsing the bottle (with the cap on) in warm/hot water. This multi-purpose oil can be used on the skin and hair.

Key ingredients include:

• Coconut oil: moisturises skin
• Tuberose: offers a sensual, warm, and floral scent
• Cinnamal: imparts the gorgeous spicy and sweet aroma of cinnamon

When warmed up, this oil is quite runny, non-greasy, and feels lightweight. It absorbs quickly, within a couple of minutes. I’m obsessed with the scent of this oil. It’s sweet, slightly spiced, floral, and romantic. Every time I use it, I smell absolutely amazing. Although this oil is fragranced, so that’s something to be mindful of if you’re sensitive to perfumed products.

And the results are fantastic. I use this as a body oil to hydrate and soften skin. I apply the oil overnight, and by morning, my skin is soft, smooth, nourished. Any dryness on my skin, such as on my feet, is significantly improved. With consistent use, the Idan Oil easily gets rid of dead, rough, or dry skin.

I’ve not used this as a hair oil, as I’ve already got a greasy scalp, so this might be a bit too rich. However, for dry ends or scalps, I think this would be a fantastic hair oil to moisturise and smooth frizz.

Rating: 5 stars

I love this oil and look forward to using it.

3. Orinrin Cleansing Balm

£32 for 50ml

The LIHA Beauty Orinrin Cleansing Balm claims to effortlessly dissolve makeup, SPF, and daily grime, while delivering nourishment that lingers long after rinsing. The balm transforms into a milk when in contact with water, allowing you to easily wash it off after massaging the product into your skin.

Key ingredients:

• Sweet almond oil: softens skin and helps the skin retain moisture
• Mango seed butter: hydrates and soothes skin
• Cocoa seed butter: locks in hydration and calms sensitive skin
• Sunflower seed oil: replenishes and strengthens skin
• Rice bran oil: has barrier-repairing properties

This cleansing balm has a rich, thick, and creamy consistency. A grape-sized amount of product is enough to massage into dry skin and thoroughly cleanse it. The balm features fragrant components that give it a mildly sweet and citrusy aroma. Again, something to be mindful of if you’re sensitive to perfumed skincare.

I quite like this cleansing balm, but it’s not my favourite. It smells and feels luxurious, thanks to a gorgeous fragrance profile and sumptuous texture.

As a first cleanse in my evening skincare routine, it easily lifts any lingering dirt, SPF, or oil on the skin. The balm rinses off easily when emulsified with water. But I’ve used cleansing balms and oils that take less work and are more effective at dissolving makeup.

While this cleansing balm makes my skin soft, clean, and moisturised, it unfortunately leaves a slightly greasy and tacky residue. I need to pair this with a powerful cleansing gel or foam that removes this residue, as it could otherwise lead to breakouts on my skin. Ultimately, I prefer cleansing balms or oils that feel more compatible with my combination skin and are easier to use.

Rating: 4 stars

This cleansing balm is nice, but I think this would be better for people with dry skin.

4. Osé Gidi Black Soap

£16 for 120g

The LIHA Beauty Osé Gidi Black Soap is supposed to deeply cleanse and gently exfoliate the skin, without stripping it. The soap works into a creamy lather that leaves skin hydrated, soft, and luminous. It can be used on the face and body.

Key ingredients:

• Sodium shea butterate: cleanses the skin
• Sodium cocoate: cleanses the skin but can be drying
• Glycerin: hydrates skin
• Molasses extract: hydrates, gently exfoliates, and calms redness

This cleanser has a soft, smooth, and slightly grainy texture. It glides over skin effortlessly with no resistance. Multiple fragrant components, including bergamot, benzoin, and palmarosa, give the soap a calming and mildly citrusy aroma. Again, if you’re sensitive or dislike fragranced skincare, this might be one to avoid.

Personally, I wouldn’t use this as a facial cleanser, as the exfoliating particles would be a bit too abrasive for my skin.

As a body soap, though, this does an excellent job of cleansing my skin, while leaving it feeling nourished and removing dead, dry, or rough skin. It smooths over my skin easily and lathers effortlessly, without ever leaving my skin feeling stripped, tight, or dry. The combination of nourishment, gorgeous scent, and gentle exfoliation makes this soap feel expensive and high-quality.

Rating: 4.5 stars

I’m a big fan of this body soap.

Overall LIHA Beauty review

Overall, I think LIHA Beauty has some fantastic products that smell amazing, feature some interesting and innovative ingredients, and boast luxurious textures. These products are effective, meet their claims, and are excellent at moisturising, smoothing, and softening skin.

I love LIHA Beauty’s brand story, and the combination of the founders’ British and African heritage really comes through in their products. They’re packaged beautifully, foreground excellent Yoruba ingredients and Yoruba culture, and feel authentic.

I’m impressed with LIHA Beauty and would particularly recommend these products for people with dry skin.

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