Dr Lylah Hill unpacks the science of SPF, revealing how reliance on erythema-based MED testing and fair-skin models skews our idea of protection. Drawing on histology and photobiology, she shows that darker skin still sustains UV induced DNA damage, that melanin can mask redness without preventing CPDs, and that visible light and UVA1 drive photoageing. A sharp case for inclusive, evidence based SPF standards and smarter public guidance, not a one size fits all sunscreen.
Read MoreAlpha hydroxy acid (AHA) peels have long been a cornerstone of both cosmetic and medical aesthetic practice. Glycolic, lactic and mandelic acids in particular are used to refine skin texture, improve radiance, manage mild acne and stimulate collagen production. Yet, the numbers on a product label often tell only part of the story. A peel that claims to be 20 per cent glycolic may act with strikingly different intensity depending on its formulation. The true determinant of effect is not simply the stated percentage but the relationship between concentration, pH and the resulting free acid value (FAV). This balance defines how much of the acid is biologically available to penetrate the skin and trigger exfoliation, and it is the single most important metric for predicting how a peel will behave in practice.
Read MoreIn recent years, skincare has entered an era where beauty meets innovation. Gone are the days when radiance meant nothing more than serums and creams. You can now enhance your facial ritual with cutting-edge gadgets such as LED masks, jade rollers with micro-vibration and AI-powered diagnostic tools. Driven by a booming global market set to grow from around USD 21.3 billion in 2025 to an estimated USD 53.7 billion by 2034, this shift reflects how modern consumers expect their self-care to be as smart as it is soothing.
Read MoreSignificant weight loss, while a positive achievement for overall health, can introduce a distinct aesthetic challenge: a marked depletion of facial volume. This phenomenon has become an increasingly prevalent clinical concern, largely driven by the success of modern weight management strategies, including bariatric surgery and the widespread adoption of highly effective GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic and Mounjaro. This has given rise to the clinical descriptor "Ozempic Face," which characterises the accelerated facial ageing, gauntness, and hollowed appearance that can result from rapid and substantial fat loss.
Read MoreYou’re not a doctor. You’re not pretending to be one. But when you work with skin every day, you notice things. A client books in for a hydrating facial or a new exfoliating treatment, but the therapist sees more than just dullness or congestion. Something is flaring. Something doesn’t settle. Subtle changes in tone, texture, inflammation that shouldn’t be there, or breakouts that follow no pattern. A beauty therapist or clinical facialist often sees more of someone’s face, more regularly, than anyone else in their life. So when something’s not right, it shows and that trained instinct kicks in.
Read MoreChemical peels deliberately cause injury to the skin to provoke a superior healing response. Yet, the discourse surrounding this cornerstone procedure is often muddled, particularly concerning the crucial final step of some peels, the neutralisation. A lack of clarity on when and why a peel must be stopped chemically has led to confusion, not only for the public but for practitioners as well. It is time to assert a clear, evidence-based stance. The necessity of a peel neutraliser is not a matter of opinion or technique; it is a chemical mandate.
Read MoreDr. Lylah Hill delves into the science behind SPF, exposing the hidden flaws in how sunscreen efficacy is measured and understood. From outdated testing models to biases in skin type representation, this piece challenges the reliability of current SPF standards and urges a more inclusive, evidence-based approach to photoprotection. Essential reading for anyone who thinks sunscreen is a one-size-fits-all solution.
Read MoreIn this expert-led guide, Consultant Dermatologist Dr. Clare Kiely demystifies one of skincare’s most powerful yet misunderstood ingredients: retinoids. From the science behind cell turnover to the all-important conversion process, she explains how to navigate the vitamin A family and choose the right retinoid for your skin. Whether you’re a first-time user or looking to level up your routine, this is your go-to breakdown of the retinol pyramid, minus the confusion.
Read MoreCarbonated water has become an unexpected yet scientifically grounded addition to professional facial treatments. What began as a K-beauty trend has gained global interest, not only for its refreshing feel but also for its documented effects on skin cleansing, circulation and oxygen delivery. Behind the bubbles lies a cascade of physiological mechanisms that enhance skin health, particularly when tied to the Bohr effect.
Read MoreProfessional skincare has moved well beyond one-size-fits-all facials and generic body wraps. The new generation of treatments is tailored, sensorial and quietly high-tech, delivering real results with none of the post-treatment fuss. Whether it's a facial built around your dosha type, a cellulite treatment that doesn't rely on suction, or a spa ritual that begins at your feet and ends with mineral SPF, this year’s standout launches are precise, personal and refreshingly low-key.
In this roundup, we spotlight the newest professional beauty treatments that deserve your attention. From biotech facials to device-led contouring, these are the ones already making waves in clinics and treatment rooms across the country.
Read MoreEsperer, founded by CBT-trained psychologist Dina El Adlani, is blending facial treatments with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). The CBT Facial is less about miracle ingredients and more about reconnecting skin with self-worth. It’s catching quiet momentum as one of the boldest ideas in the beauty world. Not because of the products used, but because of what they’re paired with.
Read MoreOur Columnist Lisa Franklin explores how menopause is far more than hot flushes and mood swings. From dry eyes to disrupted sleep, she reveals how hormonal changes affect the whole body — and why it’s time we stop treating these symptoms in isolation.
Read MoreThere’s something almost instinctive about the impulse to zap a spot the moment it appears. A dab of toothpaste, a splash of rubbing alcohol; anything to shrink it overnight. But this common “drying out” approach to treating acne is not just outdated; it may be doing more harm than good. For professionals guiding patients through acne care, the conversation is shifting from surface-level quick fixes to strategies that support skin barrier integrity, minimise inflammation, and accelerate proper healing.
Read MoreIn ecological terms, rewilding refers to the process of restoring natural ecosystems; giving land and species space to return to their original, untamed state. It’s a regenerative approach, rooted in the belief that when we let nature take the lead, remarkable things can happen. With its new Rewilding Facial, Lush Spa takes that same philosophy and applies it not only to the products on your skin, but to the nervous system, too. Think of it as rewilding for both the planet and the self.
Read MoreMatcha drinks are everywhere right now — from trendy cafes to our social feeds, that vibrant green powder is stealing the show. But matcha isn’t just a delicious drink, it’s also a total game-changer for your skincare routine! Packed with antioxidants and skin-loving nutrients, matcha can help your skin glow just as much as your morning matcha latte perks you up.
Read MoreChemical peels remain a trusted tool in aesthetic clinics for refreshing the skin. One of the most important signs practitioners watch for during these procedures is a visual cue called frosting. This distinctive whitening of the skin isn’t just a surface change; it reveals the depth of the peel and how the skin is responding to the acid.
Read MoreDr. Lylah Hill has amassed an impressive combination of clinical expertise as well as academic and histological research across Aesthetic Dermatology, Tissue Regeneration & Biological Science of Skin Ageing.In this Spotlight, Dr. Lylah Hill examines how much of photobiology has focused on the role of Ultraviolet Radiation (UVR) in cutaneous health with significant effects of visible light (VL) being under-reported
Read MoreAs the sun emerges and we shed our winter layers, many assume it’s time to tuck away their vitamin D supplements. After all, sunlight is nature’s most potent source of this vital nutrient. But does the arrival of spring and summer truly eliminate the need for supplementation? The answer is: it depends.
Read MoreThe landscape for transgender and non-binary individuals in the UK has shifted significantly over the past few months, with several key legal and social changes impacting their rights and access to services. As beauty and wellness professionals, it is our responsibility to create inclusive, supportive environments where all clients—regardless of gender identity—feel respected and cared for. In light of recent developments, it’s crucial for spas, hairdressers, and other beauty businesses to reaffirm their commitment to inclusivity.
Read MoreSummer’s heat and humidity can make oily skin feel like it’s constantly in overdrive, but fear not! With the right skincare routine, you can transform your complexion from greasy to glowy. From lightweight SPF to refreshing cleansers and hydrating moisturisers, we’ve rounded up the best products to keep you fresh, protected, and shine-free all season long. Ready to embrace that healthy, dewy glow—without the grease? Let’s dive in.
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