Now that children are back at school it is time to give them an edge. Good nutrition is vitally important (In 2023, 1 in 5 children in England had a probable mental disorder and many are struggling despite eating more calories than ever).
The missing piece? Nutrients that support brain health, emotional regulation, and focus.
Dr Rachel Gow, a nutritional neuroscientist, has spent over a decade exploring the links between omega-3, mood, and neurodiversity in children. Research shows that omega-3 (DHA and EPA) can:
Improve attention and cognition
Stabilise mood and behaviour
Support overstimulated or neurodiverse children
Studies also highlight its potential to ease ADHD symptoms, reduce aggression, and even improve reading and behaviour in school-aged children.
700mg omega-3 per 1ml drop (DHA-packed for brain growth)
Just 1 drop a day for children 6 months+
3-month supply for around £10
Omega-3 is one of the most important building blocks of a child’s brain and body. With 500mg of DHA per drop, this liquid fish oil for kids is the most powerful you’ll find. It’s certified sustainable, pure, and fresh. Lightly lemon-flavoured, kids do take it, plus it’s easy to hide in cold food and drinks.
Even picky kids can take it easily — no fishy fish oil battles required. This term, Action Heroes is a simple, low-stress way to help growing brains thrive and feel their best. Easy-to-use and even the children are fans? We approve.
We are always a sucker for good skincare. Add in the powerhouse that is vitamin C and Lavera caught our eye instantly. Great skincare with high-end ingredients. All for an affordable price. Count us in for glow-worthy skin.
lavera Natural Beauty – the certified natural and organic, award-winning skincare brand- have reformulated and relaunched the ‘Glow by Nature’ range, a skincare range specifically formulated to protect the skin from oxidative stress and reduce signs of fatigue.
Vitamin C 3in1 Cream – £19.95
Wakes up tired skin, reduces wrinkles, fights the first signs of ageing and works three times as well due to being formulated with vitamin C, 2% phyto-collagen and natural Q10. Vitamin C protects against oxidative damage and is known to promote the skin’s own collagen system, while phyto-collagen moisturises and forms a natural protective film on the skin.
Liquid Illuminating Refiner- £12.95
The Liquid Illuminating Refiner, formulated with natural AHA, BHA and glycerine, has a gentle exfoliating effect that removes dead skin cells. Improves the effect of subsequent care products and leaves the skin feeling smooth and looking radiant.
Vitamin C Boost Serum- £23.45
With a light texture and quadruple antioxidant power effect thanks to vitamin C and E, resveratrol and natural Q10. Provides reliable protection against free radicals and reduces existing pigmentation spots and pimple marks. After 7 days, fine lines are visibly reduced due to intense hydration.
Illuminating Eye Cream- £16.95
The Illuminating Eye Cream combines the highly effective, antioxidant effect of vitamin C with the revitalising, firming and decongestant effect of organic caffeine. Visibly reduces fine lines, dark circles and bags under the eyes.
About lavera –
Since the creation of Laverana and the lavera brand in 1987, the goal of Thomas Haase, owner and founder, has always been to make natural cosmetics accessible to everyone. lavera is now one of the most successful natural cosmetics brands in Germany and continues to strive to uncover the secret ingredients nature has to offer, letting them shine in innovative and natural products. Sustainability has always been close to the heart of lavera, and the brand is involved in various local and international environmental protection projects. The natural cosmetics product manufacturer is also switching to maximise the use of recycled materials in all its packaging and is continuously working to further reduce the amount of packaging used for its products. From concept to delivery, it is all done in one place in Hanover. Currently, around 250 lavera products are available in 40 countries. Certified natural cosmetics: lavera. Nature you can feel.
New Superfruit Launches – BOOMBITES™ Red Berry Grapes – Great For Taste And Health
We absolutely loved these Boombites at Frost HQ. Delicious and juicy, you feel like you ar being healthy while eating something that tastes amazing.
There’s a new addition to the fruit bowl and it’s anything but ordinary. These one-of-a-kind Red Berry Grapes – known as BOOMBITES™ – are a new superfruit that taste like the very best table grapes but once you bite into them, you’ll discover a deep, juicy red pulp, similar to that of a berry or a cherry.
These Red Berry Grapes are not only juicy, tasty and utterly moreish, but the unique red pulp on the inside means they are packed with antioxidants known as anthocyanins[1] — the powerhouse polyphenols that account for the superfood status of Goji berries, blueberries and cranberries. In fact, the new Red Berry Grapes have comparable antioxidant levels to blueberries, well known for their superfruit status.[2]
Red Berry Grapes are set to be an incredibly versatile new superfruit. Just like table grapes, they are perfect as a tasty, healthy snack. The high antioxidant content means that they will also be great for pre, or post workout or just the perfect way to start your morning. And the beautiful red pulp on the inside means they are a great showpiece to serve as a premium after dinner treat at your next gathering.
Red Berry Grapes — BOOMBITES™—are a completely natural cross between some of the world’s best table grapes which traditionally all have white flesh on the inside with old grape varieties that have red flesh fruit and were traditionally only used for wine production. It took thousands of different combinations of small and soft, red-fleshed wine grapes with large, sweet, and crunchy seedless table grapes to come up with the new Red Berry Grapes. The end result? A new category that has the beautiful, sweet taste of grapes, the premium feel of a high-end food and beverage category, and the health credentials of a superfruit like blueberries.
Superfruit benefits
Anthocyanins are polyphenols, a naturally occurring plant compound. They are associated with health-enhancing mechanisms including improvements in cholesterol levels, vascular function[3] and the gut microbiome.[4] Public Health Nutritionist Dr Emma Derbyshire, a member of a new research and education information group called the Red Berry Grape Advisory Board, had this to say: “Dark fruits have soared in popularity over recent years as people become familiar with their high antioxidant content. The vibrant colour of the Red Berry Grapes is down to high concentrations of anthocyanins, a powerful antioxidant that’s been linked to a wide range of health and wellness benefits.”
Emerging new research confirms that the new Red Berry Grapes not only deliver much higher levels of antioxidant polyphenols than traditional grape varieties, but also their natural sugars are absorbed more slowly.[12] And it’s the impact on blood sugar levels that has generated even more excitement around their superfruit credentials.
Research from the technology center AINIA in Valencia, Spain, suggests that despite having similar amounts of fructose, the new Red Berry Grape varieties showed significantly lower glucose uptakes than standard varieties. This is thanks to the Red Berry Grape being rich in polyphenols, as well as having fibre, and together this unique food matrix[13],[14] seem to have a role in slowing glucose absorption compared to other fruits.
Dietitian, Nichola Ludlam-Raine and member of the Red Berry Grape Advisory Board notes: “In simple terms, this means that while new Red Berry Grapes are sweet to the taste, the combination of phenols they contain alters the way these sugars are transported and absorbed in the gut.
“This has major implications for weight control, insulin response and dietary advice around fruit consumption, because we know that many consumers restrict intakes of these fruits rich in antioxidants because of concerns about the amount of sugar in fruit.”
Research facts: Population studies show that a diet rich in polyphenols can potentially help to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease by 46% and this is driven by multiple mechanisms including reduced oxidative stress and inflammation and improvements in blood cholesterol, clotting and endothelial function, the term used to describe the integrity and elasticity of blood vessels.[15],[16]
An observational study in 3,420 older adults at high risk of cardiovascular disease — which also put them in the danger zone for diabetes — showed a 28% reduction in new-onset diabetes among those with the highest intakes of polyphenols.[17] Other research studies have shown that polyphenols moderate insulin resistance via several mechanisms and also work synergistically with diabetes medicines to increase their efficacy.[18]
Dr Emma Derbyshire in summary adds: “The Red Berry Grape breaks the rules. Not only is it packed with potential health benefits, but it’s unique in its appearance and offers a juicy, hydrating, rewarding taste. You’ll have to bite it to believe it!”
TASTE THE REDVOLUTION
The new BOOMBITES™ Red Berry Grapes – are on sale in Marks and Spencer nationwide for a punnet for a limited period time.www.boombites.com
Sleep is important. The difference between having a good day, and walking through it feeling like a zombie. With that in mind, we have put together a list of products that we love and think will elevate your sleep routine, along with a little wind down guide. We hope you like them. Let us know in the comments what you think, of if you have any tips of your own.
Ralph’s Orchard Sleep Kit – a small, thoughtful set that supports better sleep.
We love this sleep kit. The affordable price point only makes it better. It makes a lovely and thoughtful gift. It looks, and smells, gorgeous too.
Ralph’s Orchard is a UK maker of vegan, eco‑friendly home fragrance and self‑care goods. We prioritise recyclable/reusable materials and partner with environmental initiatives across the year.
All the items are UK hand-made, vegan and eco-conscious:
Lavender & Chamomile Pillow Spray (30ml, glass): Calming blend designed for linens; dries clear and non-sticky.
Organic Lavender Eye Pillow: Soft cotton with natural fill for gentle pressure and scent.
Lavender-filled sachet to tuck under your pillow at night.
This pairs naturally with mattress/sheet reviews as the final step in a bedtime routine, with a reader‑friendly price point of £28.
How to Build a Bedtime Wind-Down Routine
Getting quality sleep isn’t just about having the right bed – it’s about setting the stage for rest. Here are some simple, effective tips:
Time your caffeine. Avoid coffee, tea, or energy drinks at least 6 hours before bed to give your body time to wind down naturally.
Exercise wisely. Daily movement supports better sleep, but leave at least 2 to 3 hours between vigorous exercise and bedtime.
Limit blue light. Phones and tablets can disrupt melatonin production. Switch on a blue light filter in the evening or, better yet, put devices away an hour before bed.
Create a calm ambiance. Dim the lights, light a candle, or play soft music to signal to your body that the day is ending.
Check your environment. Keep your bedroom cool (around 18°C is ideal), choose the right duvet tog for the season, and make sure your mattress and pillows support comfort.
Add soothing scents. A pillow spray with lavender and chamomile can promote relaxation and help train your brain to associate the fragrance with sleep.
Be consistent. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same times each day – your body loves routine!
Together, these habits create a ritual that tells your body and mind it’s time to rest.
We love these stylish and comfortable sleep masks fromDozzz.co.uk
Fantastic sleep masks that look good and feel good. Super stylish too.
Nudea Pyjamas.
NUDEA EXPANDS BEST-SELLING SLEEP RANGE WITH NEW ‘SKY’ COLOUR The softest sleep silhouettes – now in a fresh, cloud-like hue
We are obsessed with these soft, stylish, and gorgeous pyjamas from Nudea. The colour is beautiful and they feel soft against the skin. Consider your sleepwear elevated.
British B-Corp underwear and sleepwear brand NUDEA introduces SKY – a new colourway across five of its signature sleepwear styles. Inspired by clear blue mornings and calm, coastal skies, this fresh drop brings a serene seasonal update to the brand’s much-loved silhouettes.
Crafted from GOTS Certified Organic Cotton, the SKY capsule offers breathable, naturally soft styles designed for all-day lounging, slow mornings, and wind-down evenings. Each piece is rooted in NUDEA’s mindful approach to essentials: consciously created, effortlessly wearable and made to move with you.
This launch continues NUDEA’s mission to deliver purpose-led comfort through thoughtful design. Minimal, kind-to-skin and made to last – this is loungewear for every moment.
The Tank A classic scoop-neck silhouette with low-cut side seams for breathable nights and relaxed days. RRP £30 Available in Sky, Black, Cotton White, Sage Stripe, Rosemary, and French navy Stripe (XS–XXL / UK 4–18)
The Midi Shirt A relaxed, elevated shirt with a gently oversized fit and dropped shoulders. Finished with clean, modern detailing, it’s a versatile staple that pairs perfectly with shorts or trousers for a put-together lounge look. RRP £47 Available in Sky, Black, Cotton White, Sage Stripe, Rosemary, and French navy Stripe (XS–XXL / UK 4–18)
The Maxi Shirt An easy summer short with a relaxed classic silhouette made of 100% organic cotton and. featuring mother of pearl buttons. RRP £85 Available in Sky, Black, Cotton White, , Rosemary and French navy Stripe (XS–XXL / UK 4–18)
The Classic Trouser A refined lounge trouser with a straight leg and gently tailored feel. With a soft waistband, drawcord tie and side pockets, they offer comfort with polish – the ultimate bed-to-anywhere essential. RRP £45 Available in Sky, Black, Cotton White, Sage Stripe, Rosemary, and French navy Stripe(XS–XXL / UK 4–18)
The Classic Boxer A fresh take on the borrowed-from-him boxer. Flattering lightweight drawstring short style in organic cotton. RRP £35 Available in Sky, Black, Cotton White, Sage Stripe, Rosemary, and French navy Stripe (XS–XXL / UK 4–18)
About NUDEA Nudea is a thoughtful curation of underwear & sleepwear created from natural and recycled materials. Each piece is purposefully designed with the perfect fit in mind.
Born from a desire to offer the functional, the necessary and the purest form of comfort, we aim to provide the best foundations to support your unique personal style while ensuring that the layers closest to your skin feel the most supportive, comfortable, and flexible.
We are passionate about leaving the world in a better way than we found it. It is this belief that inspires our sustainability practices and pledge to support our community of like-minded women by empowering our customer to make positive changes, no matter how small. For a more sustainable and balanced future. To create an understanding that this change starts with self-care. www.nudea.com Follow us: @nudea.underwear
I have a brand-new obsession: these gorgeous, stylish and comfortable clothes for children. If you have a child with sensory processing difficulties then these clothes will have them looking fabulous with no complaints.
Not only are these clothes soft and beautiful, but they are super-affordable. I always say that my biggest compliment to a brand is if I would spend my own money on it. I will definitely buy these high-quality, yet affordable clothes. With the great styles mixed with the neurodiverse-friendly comfort, we love Känna.
A Devon-based mother has turned her family’s personal struggles into a groundbreaking solution for children with sensory processing difficulties. Today marks the official launch of Känna, a new online clothing brand offering stylish, sensory-friendly garments designed to bring comfort and confidence to neurodivergent children.
The inspiration behind Känna came from founder Katie Lodge’s own experience with her daughter Evelyn, who struggled to find clothing she could tolerate due to sensory sensitivities. “Evelyn had one outfit she could wear comfortably, and it was on repeat every single day,” Katie recalls. “Seams, labels, waistbands – everything felt unbearable to her. It wasn’t just about clothing; it was about her quality of life.”
Determined to create a solution, Katie assembled a team of expert designers and manufacturers to develop a range of clothing that is as kind to the senses as it is stylish. The result is Känna, a collection of thoughtfully designed garments that prioritise comfort without compromising on aesthetics.
What makes Känna different?
Every detail of Känna’s clothing has been meticulously crafted to address the unique needs of children with sensory sensitivities:
· Minimal, ultra-soft seams for durability without irritation
· Tagless, screen-printed care labels to eliminate itchy contact
· Soft, breathable organic cotton blends, brushed inside for extra smoothness
· Stretchy, non-restrictive waistbands for ultimate comfort
The inaugural collection, available for children aged 5 to 14, includes short- and long-sleeve tees, A-line skirts, and dresses in a variety of styles and colours. Prices range from £28 to £35, offering a mid-range, high-quality alternative to high-street clothing.
Comfort for all kids – with sustainability built-in
While Känna was born out of a need to support neurodivergent children, its mission extends to all kids. “Let’s normalise comfort and self-care for our children,” Katie says. “Everyone feels better when they’re comfortable, and Känna is here to make that possible for every child.”
Känna is also deeply committed to ethical and sustainable practices. All garments are made from OEKO-TEX or GOTS certified fabrics, responsibly sourced from European mills, and built to last.
A family’s journey, a community’s solution
Katie’s journey to create Känna has been one of love, determination and risk. “This brand was born out of necessity, even desperation,” she shares. “But it’s been created with so much love, and we couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve achieved.”
The Lodge family’s story is one of resilience and innovation, and Känna is set to become a brand that empowers children to feel good in what they wear.
Känna (inspired by the Swedish/Icelandic/Japanese word for “feeling,” “explore,” and “waves”) is a UK-based start-up creating premium children’s clothing that combines sensory-aware design with ethical sustainability. Känna’s mission is to empower all children to feel good in what they wear.
Childhood anxiety affects millions of families across Britain. One moment everything seems fine. The next, a child refuses to leave the house or bursts into tears over seemingly small things. For parents and carers, knowing how to help can feel overwhelming.
Spotting the Signs
Anxiety wears many masks in childhood. A seven-year-old might complain of tummy aches every school morning. Teenagers sometimes become snappy and withdrawn. Younger children often struggle to explain their feelings at all.
Some warning signs are obvious. Others sneak up gradually:
Difficulty concentrating at school
Nightmares or trouble falling asleep
Avoiding friends or favourite activities
Explosive anger over minor issues
Constantly asking “what if?” questions
Physical symptoms matter too. Headaches, nausea and exhaustion often accompany anxiety. Yet doctors find nothing medically wrong. This frustrates everyone involved.
Opening Up Conversations
Getting anxious children to talk requires patience. Direct questions rarely work. “What’s wrong?” often meets silence or “nothing.”
Better approaches exist. Sharing activities creates natural openings for chat. Baking together, walking the dog, or building Lego removes pressure. Children often open up when their hands stay busy.
Timing matters enormously. Anxious children need space to process feelings. Pushing for immediate answers backfires. Sometimes waiting until bedtime or the weekend helps. Each child has their own rhythm.
Validation beats advice initially. “That must feel scary” acknowledges feelings without judgement. Children need to know their emotions make sense before tackling solutions.
Practical Anxiety-Busting Tools
Body-Based Techniques
Anxiety lives in the body as much as the mind. Teaching children to notice physical sensations helps. Tight shoulders? Time for shoulder rolls. Racing heart? Let’s try slow breathing.
The 7-11 breathing technique calms most children. Breathe in for 7 counts, out for 11. It’s harder than it sounds! This difficulty actually helps by focusing attention away from worries.
Progressive muscle relaxation works brilliantly at bedtime. Tense each muscle group for five seconds, then release. Start with toes, work upwards. Many children fall asleep before reaching their heads.
Creating Routine and Predictability
Anxious minds crave structure. Regular mealtimes, consistent bedtimes and predictable schedules reduce uncertainty. This doesn’t mean rigid timetables. Flexibility within framework works best.
Visual schedules help younger children. Knowing what comes next eases transitions. Even teenagers benefit from shared family calendars showing upcoming events.
The Power of Play
Play therapy isn’t just for professionals. Drawing, crafts and imaginative games let children express fears safely. A child who can’t discuss school anxiety might draw angry pictures or act out scenarios with toys.
Older children often prefer journals. Writing worries down gets them out of spinning minds. Some children enjoy creating worry monsters – drawing their anxiety as silly creatures removes some power.
When Outside Help Makes Sense
Professional support becomes necessary when anxiety disrupts daily life significantly. Missing school regularly, losing friendships, or family relationships suffering all signal intervention time.
GPs provide starting points for help. School pastoral teams often have training in anxiety support. Waiting lists for CAMHS can stretch long, but early referral means getting in the queue sooner.
Different children need different support levels. Those in care situations, including foster placements, often face complex anxiety from past experiences. Organisations like orangegrovefostercare.co.uk offer specialised guidance for supporting these vulnerable young people.
Private therapy remains an option for families who can afford it. Many therapists offer sliding scales based on income.
Conclusion
Supporting anxious children challenges even the most patient adults. Progress rarely follows straight lines. Good weeks follow difficult ones. Setbacks happen just when everything seemed sorted.
Remember that small improvements count. A child who couldn’t enter shops last month but managed five minutes today has achieved something huge. Celebrating these victories, however tiny, builds momentum for bigger challenges ahead.
Above all, anxious children need to know they’re not broken. With time, understanding and the right tools, they can learn to manage their worries. The journey might be long, but hope always exists.
“I’ve never read anything quite like Alchemy of Secrets – it’s full of adventure and magic and quirky twists will keep you guessing until the very last line.”
– Jodi Picoult
Alchemy of Secrets By Stephanie Garber will be published in hardback by GOLLANCZ on the 7th October 2025.
In a world that can be a bit much there is nothing I love more than escaping into a book, and, damn, does Stephenie Garber let you escape. Alchemy of Secrets is much anticipated and I was honoured to receive a copy. This book feels like the perfect autumn read. Partly set in a university class about urban legends and myths, you feel like you are immersed in a magical world. It is full of adventure as you are taken on a tension-filled treasure hunt through Los Angeles.
Set in old Hollywood, it is full of the glamour you would expect. I found it an enchanting read with a whole lot of twists. With first-class world building, characters that you will love and be frustrated by, and an original story that sweeps you away, Alchemy of Secrets is a stunner.
I love the way Stephanie Garber writes. Her books are highly addictive and fast paced. I was completely gripped through this book. It ends in a bit of a cliffhanger and is full of glorious lore. I can’t wait for book two.
It starts with a class in an old movie theatre.
Folklore 517: Local Legends and Urban Myths, taught by a woman called the Professor.
Most students believe the Professor’s stories are just fiction. There isn’t a man in Hollywood who you can call to find out the time you’ll die. There’s not a haunted hotel bar in Los Angeles that the devil likes to frequent. There’s no such thing as magic.
But . . . most students don’t have the same tragic past as Holland St. James.
Now a graduate student, Holland is hoping to use her thesis to rewrite her past by proving that some of the most infamous deaths in old Hollywood were actually murders committed by the devil. She has no idea that this quest will lead her into a deadly world of century-old secrets and unimaginable lies and onto the path of two very dangerous men, both of whom are willing to do whatever it takes to find a magic that will either forever alter Holland’s life or completely destroy it.
Alchemy of Secrets is the first adult novel from global fantasy phenomenon Stephanie Garber, the multimillion-copy bestselling author of the Caraval and Once Upon a Broken Heart series.
About the author: Stephanie Garber is the No. 1 New York Times and Sunday Times bestselling author of the Caraval series and the Once Upon a Broken Heart series. Her books have been published in thirty languages.
Ever wonder how to reduce your beauty bag? Is your skincare overflowing with multiple choice products, so much so that you find you neglect them or simply don’t know how to add this in to your routine? Consumerism has driven the availability of some brilliant products that are holy grail in our skincare routines, but also, the amount of steps to treat our skin can be overwhelming. So how much do we really need daily? Whilst everyone’s skin and skin needs are different (be it oily, dry, sensitive, acne-prone, aging, etc), there are some staple skincare products that should be used by all. We spoke to skincare experts to find out what those are…
CLEANSER
Chartered Chemist, founder of SOS Serum Skincare, Bruce Green, says, “Cleansing is one of the single most important things you can do for your skin. Everyone’s skin gets dirty from dust, sweat, make-up, sebum and atmospheric impurities, at all times of the day. A nighttime cleanse clears the day’s gunk, giving your skin a chance to repair while you sleep. our skin doesn’t get that dirty while you sleep – unless you roll around in pizza at 3 a.m., a splash of water in the morning can be enough. It is estimated that over 50% of users of cleansers, suffer from skin discomfort, tingling or itching. In my opinion, many cleansers on the market contain too much ethanol and an excess of surfactants that can upset and unbalance the skins natural protective barrier, its ‘Acid Mantle’ – which can lead to redness, irritation, clogged pores and the skin feeling tight and the skins barrier being compromised. Do not over cleanse or use an aggressive cleanser as this can stimulate the skin to produce more sebum and the need to cleanse more. Your skin might even thank you for not scrubbing it like a kitchen countertop. Over-cleansing wrecks your skin barrierand can cause dryness, irritation and even more oil production. I recommend SOS Cleanse as your go to cleanser for healthy looking skin: alcohol-free & petrochemical free.”
MOISTURISER
Dr Bonny Armstrong, Teoxane expert and award-winning Aesthetic Doctor, says, “A healthy skin barrier protects against almost all skin issues including dryness, sensitivity, breakouts and early signs of skin aging. Even oily/acne-prone skin needs hydration to prevent overcompensation. If your skin “feels fine,” daily moisturising prevents problems before they start. Your skin barrier is the outermost layer of skin and protecting it with daily moisturiser keeps water in and irritants out. Throughout the day, your skin loses water (transepidermal water loss), and can lead to tightness, premature fine lines and sebum overproduction to compensate. Pollution, weather, indoor heating/AC and UV rays all wear on your skin daily, so finding a solid moisturiser that is protecting and nourishing to your skin makes a big difference to your skin’s appearance over time from daily use. Sometimes, we feel we want to avoid moisturiser, especially if it feels too heavy. Teoxane Advanced Filler Normal‑to‑Combination Skin is a light formula suited to normal or combination skin, delivering hydration, smoothing and anti-wrinkle benefits using RHA and a restructuring complex.”
SPF
Clinic Lead at Face the Future, Kimberley Medd, says, “If there’s one none-negotiable in your daily skincare routine – no matter your gender, skin type and age, it’s sun protection. Whilst skin cancer is rightly still the number one reason to wear SPF, there are a multitude of protective benefits to wearing sunscreen that go beyond sunburn. UVA protection in the UK is the key understanding to protect the skin from premature fine lines and wrinkles, which we are more at risk of throughout all seasons, whereas summer is more closely tied to UVB protection (protecting against sunburn). Other SPF benefits include minimising and protecting the skin from hyperpigmentation, sunspots, fine lines and wrinkles, accelerated collagen depletion, drier skin from no barrier protection and maintaining an even skin tone. As skin gets thinner and less resilient with age, it becomes more vulnerable to UV damage. When we’re younger, we might not think too much about sun protection, but as we age, the consequences of not using SPF regularly—like wrinkles, age spots, and an increased risk of skin cancer—become more evident. This is telling in that the latest 365 Days of SPF report by Face the Future, 77% of the UK believe it’s important for people aged over 40 to wear sun protection.”
LIP BALM
Emma Coleman, Senior Magnitone Ambassador, Clinic Director and Dermatology Nurse, says, “Lips don’t have oil glands, so they dry out faster than the rest of your skin. They’re constantly under pressure from talking, eating, licking and weather. Applying lip balm can help prevent dryness, cracking, chapping from environmental factors, lip lines and irritation. Just like our skin barrier needs protecting, our lips are often neglected or seen as a “nice to have”. Even those with smooth and generally non-problematic lips can adhere to daily wear, as travel, lifestyle, outdoor exposure, or breathing through your mouth at night, can impact the health of your lips. Some balms cause the very dryness you’re trying to fix, so it’s important to watch out for irritants such as menthol, camphor, phenol, eucalyptus, or fragrances. Avoid lip balms with exfolitating ingredients like Salicylic Acid, which is too harsh for daily lip use. Some balms only offer an addictive feeling and not much healing – they give quick relief but don’t seal in moisture, leading to more reapplying. Instead, look for a lip balm with humectant qualities such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin, and nourishing ingredients like shea butter, ceramides and vitamin E. UV rays cause lip ageing and increase the risk of skin cancer, especially on the lower lip, so opting for an SPF enriched lip balm can also create an added benefit.”
