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Molly Sims’ YSE Beauty eyes US retail growth

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Silas Capital led the round with participation from L Catterton and existing investors Willow Growth Partners and Halogen Ventures.

The company said the funding will be used to support expansion across Sephora stores in the United States, product development and continued investment in e-commerce.

Capital supports scaling within specialty retail

Founded by entrepreneur, actress/producer, and podcast host Molly Sims, YSE Beauty launched in 2023 and entered brick-and-mortar retail in June 2025 through an exclusive partnership with Sephora. The company said it expects to more than double its Sephora business in 2026 while continuing to grow online sales.

“There is so much synergy between our brand, the brands in the Silas portfolio and L Catterton’s deep strategic knowledge of the category,” Sims said in a press statement. “Both firms deeply understand the kind of women we speak to… what she wears, what she values and how she moves through the world.”

Sims characterized this synergy between the organizations as a factor in selecting the investment partners. “It feels like a true alignment in vision and audience, making it the perfect fit,” she said. “This partnership isn’t just strategic – it’s a shared philosophy and a mutual understanding of what’s going to fuel us and where we want to take the brand next.”

According to the company, YSE Beauty delivered 120% revenue growth in 2025 and is projecting more than 80% growth in 2026, with revenue expected to approach $30 million next year.

Investor interest in age-specific beauty positioning

YSE Beauty is positioned around women aged 35 and older, with a focus on clinically tested products designed for simplified routines. The brand’s portfolio includes exfoliating pads, eye treatments and complexion-focused products positioned at the intersection of skincare and makeup.

“Molly’s approachable, yet authoritative voice has been a key driver in building the loyal and engaged community supporting the incredible momentum for YSE Beauty,” said Brian Thorne, partner at Silas Capital, in a press release. “Leveraging her insider network of dermatologists, estheticians and makeup artists, she has curated a lineup of multi-functional skincare-meets-makeup essentials that cater to an underserved Gen X customer that demands results-driven beauty.”

Thorne said Silas Capital plans to support growth across channels. “We’re thrilled to partner with Molly for this next chapter,” he added, “supporting both the brand’s impressive e-commerce momentum, as well as its quickly scaling wholesale expansion with Sephora.”

Investment follows recent L Catterton activity in beauty

The YSE Beauty deal follows previous beauty and personal care investments by L Catterton, including venture/minority investments in personalized hair and skincare brand Function of Beauty in 2020, minimalist beauty brand MERIT in 2021, and Swedish vegan haircare brand Maria Nila in 2023.

As previously reported by CosmeticsDesign, in 2024, the firm entered into a strategic partnership with Stripes Beauty, the menopause-focused skincare brand co-founded by Naomi Watts. At the time, Whitney Casey, a partner at L Catterton, shared that the private equity firm is “proud to invest in women and contribute to developing a health platform to address the full range of women’s unique lifestyle needs.”

YSE Beauty said it will continue to invest in product development and operational scale as it deploys the Series A capital.

All you need to know about the Luxy Hair Application Kit

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At Luxy Hair, our mission is to help you feel like your most beautiful self, every single day. Whether it’s a special occasion, a stay-at-home self-care date or a Vaxxed (i.e. vaccinated) vacation you’re about to take. We believe that looking and feeling like your best self is achieved when your beauty routine is simple and effective, allowing you to enjoy every little step you take.

We’ve all pretty much got it down pat when it comes to makeup and skin care thanks to the plethora of information and self-care guides available—we’re looking at you, TikTok.

But what about our hair care/styling routines? A lot of women find that doing their hair is an arduous task, even if the end result is what they want. Between the sectioning, heat styling, hair spraying, scrunching, blow-drying and more, the process of styling can sometimes feel somewhat tiresome.

We’re here to make the process much, much simpler while also adding that aesthetic touch you’ve always wanted, with the Luxy Hair Application Kit.

What is the Luxy Hair Application Kit?

The Luxy Hair Application Kit is the all-you-need hair styling kit that is here to help you simplify the process of doing your hair, while also adding a luxurious touch to your beauty routine. Everything, from the look of the travel bag to each tool inside it speaks of luxury, style and function—elements that not only make the process of getting ready easier, but help you feel oh-so-good doing it.

shop the application kit

What does the application kit include?

It includes a vegan saffiano leather travel bag, a pair of matte alligator hair clips and a pearlescent rat tail comb.

Vegan Saffiano Leather Travel Bag

This sleek and luxe travel bag is a black toiletry pouch with gold zipper detailing and has a gold Luxy metal logo to match. If you’re a girl-on-the-go, this pouch is perfect to throw into your overnight bag, a travel tote or even your handbag for easy reach and convenience.

Matte Alligator Hair Clips

The Luxy Hair Application Kit also includes two professional grade black ‘alligator claw’ clips that feature a soft-touch, matte black finish and a metallic gold silk screen Luxy Hair print. These hair clips make sectioning and styling so much simpler, without the ill-effects of your hair getting crimped, tangled or twisted into these clips.

Pearlescent Rat Tail Comb

The last, and definitely not the least thing included in this kit is the pearlescent comb that features fine teeth. These are polished to a smooth and rounded finish for an effortless glide. The rattail side of the comb helps with seamless sectioning making it easy-peasy for you to put on your hair extensions, section your hair to braid or get that perfect Gen Z approved middle part.

How do I use the Application Kit?

The hair application kit is designed to assist you in making storing, detangling, styling, and final touch ups to your #HOTD simple. You can use it to section your hair while putting in your hair extensions, use the alligator clips while straightening or curling your hair amongst many other things.

The vegan leather pouch is roomy enough to hold the rattail comb and alligator hair clips as well as any additional accessories like, a set of snag-free satin scrunchies, pearl hair clips, your every day lip balm and bobby pins.

Made of a very eco-friendly material the pearlescent rattail comb has anti-static properties that helps smooth out the hair and eliminate frizz—the dream for every girl who battles post-shower frizz, amirite?!

snag-free satin scrunchies

Your newest hair styling bffs, the alligator clips. feature a flexible, double-hinged claw design that adjusts to grip to your hair securely without pulling or damaging it. How many times can you remember re-straightening a section of hair because of a clip crimp? We see the struggle, girl. The non-slip grips on the handles make it easy to open and close when your hands are wet and/or when you are dealing with wet hair.

Application Kit Additionals

Signature Hair Curler and Application Kit Bundle

Pair the application kit with our signature hair curler and make it the styling bundle of your dreams. The 1” Luxy Hair Signature Curler is ideal for styling hair extensions, long hair and short hair alike. This 7.2-inch extra-long length barrel with a cool-touch tip will ensure your fingers stay safe, and you always have good hair days on-the-go!

signature curler

Application Kit and Deluxe Styler Bundle

Applying and styling your Luxies can be an even bigger treat with this Bundle. The Application Kit has everything you need to master the art of application, plus use the Deluxe Styler to wash, dry, and style your Luxies with ease by suctioning on to any hard surface. Styling, drying and loving your Luxies has never been this easy.

Application Kit and Loop Brush Bundle

Keep your styling routine simple and luxurious with this Application Kit and Loop Brush bundle. Use this unique Loop Brush to glide through your hair seamlessly without causing any damage to your natural hair or hair extensions. Then go in for seamless styling with your handy application kit to style your hair and complete the look.

Cellulite is a scam – and the beauty industry knows it

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For over a century, the beauty industry has told us that cellulite is a flaw. It’s “unsightly,” “unfeminine,” and needs fixing. But here’s the shocking truth: cellulite isn’t a problem at all.

It’s simply the natural structure of human skin – something that appears in around 90% of women. So why have we been conditioned to believe cellulite is something to hide or be ashamed of? Well, because that belief fuels a multi-billion-dollar industry built entirely on our insecurities.

In this milestone 300th episode of Green Beauty Conversations, host Lorraine Dallmeier, Chartered Environmentalist, Biologist, and CEO of Formula Botanica, exposes one of the beauty industry’s biggest scams.

She unpacks how cellulite went from a harmless French word to a manufactured “condition” that keeps women chasing perfection in jars, gels, and expensive treatments.

Building on last week’s powerful discussion with Cynthia Staats, Lorraine challenges you to rethink what beauty marketing has taught us to believe about our bodies.

You’ll hear how cellulite became one of the industry’s most profitable inventions – and how learning to formulate for yourself can help you reclaim your creativity, your skin, your confidence, and, ultimately, your power.

Listen here

“Cellulite doesn’t need a cure. What needs curing is the industry’s obsession with inventing flaws that keep us buying their products.” — Lorraine Dallmeier

Key takeaways:

  • Why cellulite isn’t what you’ve been led to believe: Lorraine breaks down the origins of the word “cellulite” and how it was never recognised as a medical condition. Instead, it was created as a marketing construct to sell “solutions” to a problem that never existed.
  • How the beauty industry manufactured a global insecurity: From 1920s Parisian magazines to 21st-century social media, discover how the cellulite myth evolved into one of the most profitable lies in modern beauty, preying on women’s natural features.
  • What science really says about cellulite treatments: A 2015 meta-review of 67 clinical studies found no clear evidence that any cream, gel or device can effectively “banish” cellulite. Despite decades of research and billions spent, there’s still no proven cure, only predatory marketing.
  • The radical act of formulating for yourself: Lorraine shares how creating your own body oils and scrubs isn’t just empowering – it’s a way to reclaim your bathroom, your body and your power. When you formulate, you stop chasing impossible standards and start celebrating your skin.
  • How to reclaim your confidence from the industry: The episode ends with a challenge: stop outsourcing your self-worth to brands built on insecurity. Learn the science, make your own products, and turn your skincare ritual into a celebration of who you already are.

Thank you for joining us for this episode of the Formula Botanica Green Beauty Conversations podcast. If you enjoyed listening, please share, subscribe and review this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Youtube so that more people can enjoy the show. Don’t forget to follow and connect with us on Facebook and Instagram.

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What’s the Difference? – OLAPLEX Inc.

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Key Takeaways

  • Hair masks are an intense weekly treatment that you leave in your hair for a few minutes, then wash out.
  • Hair masks differ from conditioners because hair masks provide intense moisture, while conditioners provide the right amount of moisture for daily use.
  • Use the Weightless Nourishing Mask if you have fine to medium hair.
  • Reach for the Rich Hydration Mask if you have medium to coarse or very dry hair.

Jump to

OLAPLEX® has added two hair masks to its hair treatment lineup: the Weightless Nourishing Mask and Rich Hydration Mask. But how do you know which hair mask to choose? It mostly comes down to your hair type, textureand needs. We’re going to break down these two different hair masks for you.

What’s a Hair Mask, and Do I Need One?

If you’re noticing dry, dull, frizzy, damagedor brittle hairyou might need a hair mask. Hair masks are a deep conditioning treatment you leave in your hair for a few minutes, then wash out. They’re usually applied to the hair once a week. Hair masks work to:

  • Soften your hair
  • Moisturize it
  • Reduce frizz
  • Minimize damage and breakage
  • Make your hair stronger and shinier

Hair Masks vs. Conditioner: What’s the Difference?

Hair masks are a more concentrated and intense moisturizing treatment that you only need to use once weekly. They penetrate each hair strand more deeply than conditioner. So using a hair mask too frequently can be too much of a good thing and cause product buildup. Conditioners like Nº.5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner still moisturize hair, but are light enough to be used every wash cycle. They deliver just the right amount of moisture each day.

If I Use a Hair Mask, Do I Need a Conditioner?

Both conditioners and hair masks are great ways to hydrate your hair. If soft, moisturized hair is a top priority, it’s smart to use a hair mask and a conditioner as part of your hair care regimen, just not on the same wash day.

Do I Need to Use a Conditioner After a Hair Mask?

Since hair masks provide intense hydration, you don’t need to use conditioner after a hair mask. Use your hair mask once a week in place of conditioner.

Who Should Use the Weightless Nourishing Mask?

If you have fine to medium hair texture, the Weightless Nourishing Mask was made for you. Not sure if you have fine or medium hair? Rub a strand of hair between your fingertips. If you can barely feel it, then you likely have fine hair. If you have medium hair, you’ll be able to feel it between your fingertips, but it won’t feel coarse.

The Weightless Nourishing Mask gives hair lightweight hydration through five washes*, which is important for fine hair, as too much product can weigh it down and make it lose volume. The Weightless Nourishing Mask goes well beyond hydration for fine to medium hair textures. Key benefits of the Weightless Nourishing Mask include:

  • Instant all-day volume
  • 2X hydration instantly with 1.5X hydration after 5 washes
  • Less breakage and breakage prevention, even after five washes
  • 63% more shine

For best results, use the Weightless Nourishing Mask once a week on wet hair after shampooing. Pro tip: If you have fine hair, use Nº.4FINE Bond Maintenance® Shampoo for lasting volume, body, and bounce. Apply the Weightless Nourishing Mask to the mid-lengths and ends of hair for 3-5 minutes, then rinse well. Getting hydrated, shiny hair is that easy.

Who Should Use the Rich Hydration Mask?

The Rich Hydration Mask is perfect for medium to thick hair. If you’re not sure if you have thick hair, run your finger over a strand of hair. If a strand of hair is easy to feel between your fingertips or feels coarse, you most likely have thick hair.

Benefits of the Rich Hydration Mask include:

  • 74% Frizz Reduction All Day
  • 16X Hydration Instantly*
  • 6X Hydration After 5 Washes*
  • 119% More Shine

*On bleached hair tresses.

Like the Weightless Nourishing Mask, you should use the Rich Hydration Mask once per week for the best results.

If I Have Medium Hair Texture, Which Hair Mask Should I Choose

The Weightless Nourishing Mask and Rich Hydration Mask are both suitable for medium hair textures, so you might wonder which one is right for you. Our advice: Consider your hair goals. If voluminous hair is what you’re looking for, choose the Weightless Nourishing Mask for twice the volume. If frizz control is a priority, reach for the Rich Hydration Mask.

Hair masks like the Weightless Nourishing Mask and the Rich Hydration Mask are a fast and simple way to remedy dry or damaged hair at home. Learn more about how OLAPLEX improves hair health or take the Hair Quiz for a personalized OLAPLEX routine.

*On virgin hair tresses

**On bleached hair tresses

Sources

1. https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-use-hair-mask

2. https://www.vogue.in/beauty/content/how-to-use-a-hair-mask-according-to-your-hair-type

3. https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty/hairstyles/fine-hair-mistakes

The Plant Oils That Bring Life Back to Dull, Fatigued Skin – 100% PURE

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Introduction

For years, facial oils have been misunderstood. Often labelled as heavy, pore-clogging, or unsuitable for everyday use, oils are frequently avoided—especially by those already struggling with dull, tired, or unpredictable skin. Yet this avoidance may be one of the reasons skin continues to feel fatigued rather than restored.

Plant oils are not occlusive shortcuts to glow. When thoughtfully formulated and correctly used, they act as nutrient delivery systems—helping replenish what stressed skin has lost. Rather than sitting on the surface, the right oils integrate into the skin’s natural lipid structure, supporting comfort, flexibility, and long-term balance.

For dull or fatigued skin, oils are not optional extras. They are foundational tools for rebuilding resilience.

Why Dull Skin Needs Lipid Support

Healthy skin relies on a delicate balance of water and oil. While hydration receives much of the attention, lipids play an equally critical role in maintaining barrier function and surface smoothness.

The Role of Fatty Acids in Barrier Health

The skin barrier is composed of corneocytes held together by a matrix of lipids—primarily fatty acids, ceramides, and cholesterol. These lipids prevent water loss, protect against environmental stressors, and maintain surface smoothness.

When lipid levels decline—due to over-cleansing, environmental stress, or chronic dehydration—the barrier weakens. Moisture escapes more easily, and skin begins to feel rough, tight, or uneven.

How Lipid Depletion Shows Up as Fatigue and Roughness

Lipid-depleted skin reflects light poorly. Texture becomes uneven, fine lines appear more pronounced, and the complexion looks flat rather than luminous. No amount of water-based hydration can fully correct this imbalance without restoring oil content.

This is where plant oils become essential—not to replace moisture, but to support the barrier that allows moisture to remain where it belongs.

Avocado Oil: Deep Nourishment for Compromised Skin

Avocado oil is one of the most nutrient-dense plant oils used in skincare, making it particularly valuable for skin that feels stressed, tight, or chronically dull.

Richness in Essential Fatty Acids

Avocado oil is naturally high in oleic acid and other essential fatty acids that closely resemble those found in the skin’s own lipid barrier. This compatibility allows it to integrate smoothly rather than sitting on the surface.

By replenishing depleted lipids, avocado oil helps restore softness and flexibility—key components of healthy radiance.

Comfort and Flexibility for Dry or Stressed Skin

For skin that feels rigid or reactive, avocado oil offers comfort without heaviness. Its emollient nature helps reduce transepidermal water loss, improving hydration retention over time.

When skin feels supported rather than stripped, it becomes more resilient—and glow returns as a natural consequence.

Rosehip Oil: Renewal and Radiance Support

Rosehip oil has long been valued for its ability to support skin renewal without irritation, making it particularly suitable for fatigued or uneven skin.

A Natural Source of Skin-Replenishing Nutrients

Rosehip oil contains naturally occurring fatty acids and antioxidant compounds that help support skin regeneration and surface smoothness. Unlike more aggressive brightening agents, it works gradually enhancing tone and texture without disrupting balance.

How to Integrate Oils into a Reset Routine

Facial oils are most effective when they are part of a well-structured routine rather than used as standalone fixes. Their role is not to replace cleansing, treatment, or moisturisation—but to enhance how each step supports the skin barrier.

A reset routine prioritises preparation, layering, and intention, ensuring oils work with the skin instead of competing against it.

Cleanse: Prep Skin Without Stripping Lipids

The way skin is cleansed determines how well it can receive oils. Harsh or foaming cleansers strip away surface lipids, leaving skin unable to properly integrate nourishing oils afterward.

The Argan Oil Creamy Cleanser cleanses without disrupting the lipid matrix, preserving softness while removing buildup from the day. Its creamy texture respects the skin barrier, ensuring that essential fatty acids remain intact rather than washed away.

When skin is cleansed gently, oils are absorbed more evenly and effectively reducing the risk of congestion or surface heaviness.

Treat: Strengthen Skin Structure Before Oils

Applying oils to weakened or compromised skin limits their benefit. Supporting skin structure first helps oils function as reinforcements rather than compensations.

The Mushroom Peptides Firming Serum supports elasticity and resilience, helping skin regain its natural strength. This step improves how oils interact with the skin by reinforcing the framework that holds moisture and lipids together.

Think of treatment as strengthening the foundation—allowing oils to enhance comfort and glow without overworking the skin.

Oil Support: Replenish and Revive

Once the skin is prepared, Organic Rosehip Oil can be introduced as a replenishing step. A small amount, gently pressed into the skin, helps restore lipid balance and improve surface smoothness.

Rather than creating shine, rosehip oil enhances how skin reflects light by smoothing texture and supporting renewal. Used consistently, it helps fatigued skin feel more flexible, comfortable, and responsive to the rest of the routine.

This step is especially beneficial during periods of stress, seasonal changes, or barrier recovery.

Moisturize: Seal in Nourishment

Oils need support to remain effective. Without a moisturiser, valuable lipids can dissipate rather than integrate fully.

The Mushroom Peptide Moisturizer seals in hydration and oils while reinforcing barrier function. It ensures that nourishment remains locked into the skin, preventing moisture loss and maintaining comfort throughout the day or night.

This step completes the lipid-hydration balance essential for lasting radiance.

Weekly Glow Boost: Refresh Tone Gently

Once the barrier is supported daily, gentle renewal becomes more effective. The Vitamin C Glow Max Bright Mask offers a weekly reset that refreshes tone without stripping oils or disrupting balance.

Used once or twice a week, it complements the routine by enhancing clarity while respecting the work done to stabilise the skin barrier.

Conclusion

Facial oils are often misunderstood because they are asked to do too much, too quickly. When used as shortcuts to glow, they disappoint. When used as allies in barrier repair, they quietly transform how skin behaves, feels, and looks over time.

Dull, fatigued skin is rarely the result of a single missing product. It is the outcome of cumulative depletion—lost lipids, compromised barriers, and routines built around correction rather than care. Plant oils like avocado and rosehip address this depletion at its source by restoring what skin naturally needs to function well.

In a true reset routine, oils are not trends or finishing touches. They are structural supports—working alongside cleansing, treatment, and moisturisation to rebuild resilience. As the barrier strengthens, hydration holds longer, texture smooths out, and radiance returns without force.

Glow, then, is no longer something to chase. It becomes a signal—evidence that the skin is balanced, nourished, and supported.

When oils are used with intention and respect for the skin’s biology, they don’t just revive dull skin. They restore confidence in the skin’s ability to take care of itself.

FAQ Section

Can facial oils cause breakouts?

When chosen correctly and used in moderation, facial oils support barrier health and can actually help regulate imbalance. Breakouts are more often linked to disrupted routines or overuse rather than oils themselves.

When should I apply rosehip oil?

Rosehip oil is best applied after water-based treatments and before moisturiser, allowing it to replenish lipids while being sealed in effectively.

Do oily skin types benefit from oils?

Yes. Oily skin can still be lipid-deficient. Lightweight, nutrient-rich oils help rebalance the barrier, which can reduce excess oil production over time.

9 Best Ottoman Beds 2026 For Extra Storage, Reviewed

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Ottoman storage beds FAQS


Are ottoman storage beds a good idea?

If you’re looking for a bed that comes with as much built-in storage as possible, then an ottoman is definitely your best bet.

“Divan beds usually have one or two storage drawers built into their base, and are therefore best-suited to keeping clothing and smaller items,” explains Jade Crooks, Commercial Director at DUSK. “But for the ultimate in clutter-free calm, only an ottoman design gives you easy access to the bed’s interior space.”

Scott Shields, CEO of Get Laid Beds, agrees that storage is often a deciding factor when it comes to bedroom furniture. “Ottoman beds are often the perfect choice, thanks to their lifting internal base, allowing ample under-bed storage. But this extra room doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style – wooden frames are often subtle with simple lines creating the perfect centrepiece to any bedroom. Coming in a variety of colours and sizes, you will not have to choose between style and functionality.”

In fact, the average ottoman bed can store up to four times more than a divan bed – and the clever gas-hydraulic mechanisms mean you’re also going to be less likely to injure yourself when accessing your storage. Win, win.


What size ottoman bed is best?

As you won’t need room either side of your bed – with an end-opening ottoman, that is – to open any bed drawers, ottoman beds allow you to take advantage of the full width of small bedrooms, should you need.

So it’s important to measure your room and visualise whether you’ll want bedside tables, room for a foot rug or any other accessories.

For singles, we’d recommend a small double or double for ultimate comfort, and likewise king size ottoman beds, or super king size, will provide ample space for couples. That said, single ottoman beds can be a godsend for tiny spare bedrooms or box rooms. Of course, it’s important to consider the size of your existing mattress too, and check that you haven’t owned a small double all this time under the impression you were kipping on a double.


What is the best base for an ottoman bed?

Ottoman beds typically have one of two bases: sprung slatted or a solid board base.

Jade notes that “a sprung-slatted bed base is made up of a series of curved wooden slats that are set within a frame. The design of the slats provides a slight give, which can enhance comfort by offering better support and cushioning compared to a bed with a solid base.”

Michael Buckle, Head of Buying at Dreams, says: “Ottoman beds usually come with either a solid base or sprung slats, and both have their benefits depending on your preference. A solid base, also known as a platform base, gives you a sturdy, flat surface that feels similar to a divan bed. It provides all-over support and a firmer feel, making it a great option if you prefer that extra level of stability. Sprung slats have slightly curved wooden slats that add a bit more flexibility and shock absorption. They create a softer feel and also allow air to flow through, which helps keep your mattress cool and fresh.”

Scott adds that the three key things to consider are “weight, size, and base. The most important thing to consider is sizing. Make sure you match the measurements of the mattress to the exact internal base of your bed; this will avoid the mattress sliding when you lift the base. Gas struts make lifting the mattress smooth and effortless, but only if they are correctly matched to the weight of the mattress. When we supply the mattress, we pair it with the right struts. If our assembly team find a heavier mattress on site, they simply upgrade the struts to the appropriate strength so the lifting action remains easy.”


Is a side opening or end opening ottoman better?

Choosing between an end opening ottoman and a side opening ottoman really comes down to your space and how you’ll use it.

Scott explains: “The right option depends entirely on your bedroom layout, how you use the space and your daily routines. At Get Laid Beds, we developed end-opening Ottomans. After extensive product testing and years of customer feedback, it is clear that this design is the most practical and reliable for our customers.

“An end-opening Ottoman gives you full access to storage without awkward angles. It works in almost every bedroom layout and is easier to use day to day. We tested different approaches, but the foot-opening design consistently came out on top for durability, ease of lifting, and convenience. That is why it is central to our range.

“If you are considering an Ottoman bed, we would always recommend choosing an end-opening model. It will give you the best balance of storage space, ease of use and long-lasting performance.”

Michael adds: “The best choice really depends on your room layout and personal preference as if you’ve got more space at the foot of the bed, an end-opening ottoman works perfectly as you simply lift the base from the foot end to reveal your storage. In smaller rooms, or if your bed is tucked against a wall, a side-opening ottoman is often more practical.”

So if you’ve got the space, an end-opening ottoman is a no-brainer for full access and versatility. But if space is tight, a side opening ottoman can be a total lifesaver.


What mattress is suitable for an ottoman bed?

Most ottoman beds are designed to work with a variety of mattresses, so you’ve got plenty of options. But to get the most out of your bed (and your sleep), there are a few things to keep in mind.

Scott says: “For the best results, a lighter mattress is a good idea. Memory foam and pocket sprung options are ideal, as they are supportive and easy to open with one hand.”

He also points out that: “Gas struts make lifting the mattress smooth and effortless, but only if they are correctly matched to the weight of the mattress… The same applies when our assembly team visits. If they find a heavier mattress on site, they simply upgrade the struts to the appropriate strength so the lifting action remains easy.”

Michael agrees that mattress weight matters. “Most mattresses work well with an ottoman bed, but the right choice depends on the type of base. If you have a solid or platform base, your mattress will feel firmer, so a softer mattress can help balance the comfort. With sprung slats, the natural flex adds cushioning and airflow, so pairing it with a slightly firmer mattress often works best. The only other thing to keep in mind is weight as heavier mattresses may need stronger pistons, so always check the bed’s weight capacity to ensure it can lift your mattress with ease.”


Are ottoman storage beds heavy to lift up?

In a word – no. Michael explains: “Ottoman beds are designed with gas-lift pistons (similar to a car bonnet), so the mechanism does most of the heavy lifting for you. Once you start to pull, the pistons take over, making it easy to raise the mattress and access the hidden storage space underneath.”

Scott agrees: “Ottoman beds are designed for easy access to bed storage. The entire mattress internal base lifts smoothly from the foot of the bed using a stylish leather strap, making it far more convenient than drawers, as there is no need to kneel down. A gas-strut-assisted system does the heavy lifting for you, so opening the bed is simple. Just be mindful if your partner is having a nap on the bed, as it lifts the whole mattress.”

Global Cosmetics News – Weekly Review | Week 2, January 2026

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This week, the global cosmetics and personal care industry highlighted the growing convergence of technology, health and retail, as brands, manufacturers and investors responded to shifting competitive dynamics while navigating rising expectations around innovation, performance and trust.

Scientific and sustainability-led developments remained active across global R&D ecosystems. Beiersdorf partnered with HIPS on long-term skin microbiome research, while Saga University announced plans to launch Japan’s first public cosmetics science faculty. L’Oreal also named the first 13 startups selected for its sustainable innovation accelerator.

Technology and digital commerce developments extended beyond the cosmetics sector itself. At CES 2026, Polish unveiled colour-changing smart press-on nails. Amazon began UK drone flights ahead of the launch of Prime Air, and Google introduced retail AI agents designed to support agentic shopping.

Retail expansion and market access remained a central focus for brands. Patrick Ta Beauty launched at Sephora Middle East, while Reliance Retail introduced K-beauty brand Hince to India through Tira. At the same time, Valentino Beauty exited South Korea amid intensifying competition.

Structural pressure within global retail continued to affect the wider luxury ecosystem. Scissors Global progressed through bankruptcy proceedings, with Chanel and Kering listed among the group’s top unsecured creditors. A former Neiman Marcus CEO was set to lead Saks Global through the bankruptcy process.

Brand positioning and market presence developments also featured across Asia. Chinese beauty chain ONLY YOUNG was accused of copying the branding of South Korean retailer Olive Young, while Serge Lutenspart of Shiseido, opened its first standalone store in Chi

Investment, performance and cost management remained in focus across the sector. Secret Alchemist raised US$3 million in funding led by Unilever Ventures, while THG shares rose as its Beauty unit outperformed in Q4 and returned to full-year growth. cosnova Beauty pledged to hold pricing steady despite tariff and cost pressures.

Strategic partnerships and executive changes continued to shape brand and market activity. Mao Geping Cosmetics signed a strategic cooperation agreement with L Catterton Asia, while Makeup by Mario Global President Alicia Valencia stepped down.

Product innovation and format experimentation remained active across key markets. Shiseido developed next-generation washable mascara technology, while Anya Hindmarch opened a collaboration concept store with Boots in London.

Taken together, this week reflected an industry operating across increasingly blurred boundaries, as cosmetics and personal care groups balanced scientific progress, technology-led change and evolving retail structures alongside ongoing cost and competitive pressures. With innovation accelerating across both products and commerce, priorities continued to centre on disciplined execution, trusted performance and long-term capability building.

11 Best Electric Diffusers 2026, Reviewed

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If you ask me, no living space is complete without one of the best electric diffusers. Sure, they cost a bit more upfront than scented candles or reed diffusers, but the payoff is priceless – a daily dose of serenity that fills your entire home. There’s just something ridiculously satisfying about hitting a button, adding a few drops of essential oil, and watching a fine mist turn your home fragrance set-up into something far more elevated than a plug-in air freshener.

Different setups offer completely different vibes. Ultrasonic diffusers bring that soft, cool mist you can actually feel in the air. Waterless nebuliser styles fire pure essential oils straight from the bottle for a richer hit of aromatherapy. Some even moonlight as a petite humidifier, which is a quiet blessing if you’re dealing with dry heating or larger rooms that need more oomph. A solid aroma diffuser shifts the atmosphere in a way that feels pleasantly indulgent.

Brands are making things increasingly slick, too. You’ll find sculptural ceramics from The White Company, sleek tech-forward designs from NEOM, and polished, luxe creations from Diptyque. Many come with thoughtful extras: ambient LED lights, a practical automatic shut-off, generous water tank sizes, intuitive timer settings, and even rechargeable options that travel nicely from room to room. And yes, Amazon still comes through with plenty of reliable plug-in options if you’re just getting started.

Whether you want a softly scented living room, a bedtime ritual that actually feels grounding, or a fuss-free way to put your favourite essential oil blend to work, the best essential oil diffusers deliver on every front. Stylish, low-effort, and surprisingly transformative — exactly what a good scent diffuser should be. Ahead, you’ll find everything you could possibly need to know, including answers to all your FAQs.

Meet the experts:


How I tested

Each essential oil diffuser went through real-life testing in different rooms, at different times of day, with a rotation of essential oil blends (some calming, some chaotic, all very revealing). I paid attention to how quickly the fine mist spread, how noticeable the scent was in larger spaces, whether the timer settings behaved themselves, and how often the water tank demanded attention.

Anything marketed as waterless or nebulising got extra scrutiny, especially around noise levels and how well the fragrance held up over time. I also tested how each diffuser handled the realities of everyday use – refilling, cleaning, and the all-important “did it make my bedroom feel like a spa or a steam room?” check. If a model claimed to be rechargeable, I carried it from room to room to see if it survived an actual day in my house. And yes, I absolutely used LED lights as an excuse for mood lighting at inappropriate hours.


Why you should trust me

I’ve tested enough home fragrance products to know the difference between a genuinely uplifting aromatherapy diffuser and one that just makes pleasant noises. My job involves trying everything from ultrasonic diffusers to humidifier-hybrids, comparing how each diffuser works, and figuring out which features actually matter – because a pretty design means nothing if the scent disappears in ten minutes.

I’ve also spent years writing about interiors and wellbeing, so I care just as much about how a diffuser looks on a shelf as how well it handles pure essential oils, automatic shut-off, or a long overnight run time. If something claims to be luxe, I expect it to deliver. If it’s budget-friendly, I want to know exactly where the compromises land. And because I use these devices at home long after the testing window closes, I’m brutally honest about what’s worth buying – and what’s better left in the checkout.


For more from Glamour UK’s Commerce Writer Mayola Fernandes, follow her on Instagram @mayolafernandess.

Ahead, our full edit of the best electric diffusers to add to your checkout right now.

Parting your hair according to your face shape

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If you’re thinking about how to part your hair, consider shaping up. Don’t worry, it’s not your fitness routine we’re talking about, it’s your face shape.

While Gen-Z and Millennials take to social media to argue the relevance of the side part versus the middle part, we want to keep the peace and say both can look just as good, as long as you’re framing your face correctly.

How did hair parts become so controversial anyway? For most people, the way you part your hair is as instinctive as your haircare routine. You’ve probably worn your hair part the same way for years, so when you change your hair part, people are likely to notice. However, if you’ve ever tried a new hair part and something simply looked off, you may have chosen the wrong style for your face shape.

Learning how to part your hair for your face shape can help accentuate your cheekbones, soften sharper angles and even elongate your face. Our hair can help frame our face shape based on texture and length but the way you part your hair also plays a key role in how flattering it is to your face.

How to determine the shape of your face:

If contouring with makeup isn’t your thing, choosing the right hair part for your face shape can yield a similarly impactful result. The best part? You aren’t going to need a bunch of new products to make any changes. If you’re unsure what your face shape is, grab some measuring tape and write down your measurements for the following:

Forehead width: Take the tape measure and hold it across your forehead, from hairline to hairline at your widest point.

Cheekbone width: Starting at your hairline above your cheekbone, measure the distance across your face to the same spot on the other side.

Jawline Width: Start underneath your ears at the base of your jaw and measure the distance along the edge of your jaw to the middle of your chin, you can continue across or take the first number and multiply by 2.

Face Length: Measure from the center of your hairline to the tip of your chin.

  • If your cheekbones and face length have similar measurements and they are larger than your forehead and jawline, you have a round face shape.
  • If all your measurements are fairly similar, you have a square face shape.
  • If your face length is largest and all other measurements are similar in size, you have a long face shape.
  • If your face length is largest, followed by cheekbones, forehead, and smallest is jawline, you have a diamond face shape. Depending on this order, you may have a heart face shape. Consider your facial features and this will help determine which category you fit in best.

The above measurements can help you get you started, but don’t forget to consider your other facial features like the shape of your jaw, chin and cheekbones. Sometimes you’ll find yourself between two face shapes, and that’s totally normal.

Grab your comb and get ready to take some notes, we are taking you to hair parts school 101.  Here is how to part your hair according to your face shape.

Hair Parts for Round face: Middle part or deep side part

With a round face shape, you get the best of both worlds when it comes to the middle vs. side part battle. A middle part helps to create a lengthened and symmetrical look around your face. If you’re into bangs, or willing to give them a try, curtain bangs (parted at the centre and angled down, getting longer towards your jawline), keeps the focus to the middle of your face, again creating a longer more diamond shape look. For more tips on how to style curtain bangs, we’ve got you covered.

If you have a round face and want to know how to part your hair without going down the middle, opt for a deep side part. A deep side part creates the same illusion as a middle part.

The side part is a go-to look for actress Emma Stone. Whether she goes red, blonde, or brunette, the side part truly complements her round face shape. With the side part, hair can still be styled anyway you want whether that’s a power pony, or vintage, luscious waves.

Hair Parts for Long face: Middle part with layers or fringe

With a longer face, a middle part works very well when cut with bangs. Layers or fringe also help frame and shorten the face. The bangs (no matter the style) will allow you to part your hair as you prefer. If bangs aren’t your thing a middle part still works with the use of layers, or a shaggy or fringe to help round and soften angles. If you prefer a style that’s not super layered, try a side-swept or diagonal part that’s softer, adding a bit of volume at the part. This type of hair part for long faces creates a more rounder look, shortening the forehead and chin features.

If you have short hair and a long face, longer bangs styled to the side look fantastic, if you’re not into layers. On the other hand, if you’re not into bangs but like layers, remember the more, the better when it comes to a shorter haircut.

Hair Parts for Square face: Soft side part

Hair parts for square faces work similarly to parts for longer faces, you want to soften your angles and create a soft frame around your face. A soft side part works great for square faces to achieve a rounder look. Unlike for round-face girls, this is a true side part and doesn’t go too far on your preferred side. Fringe and lots of layers also suit square faces really well. Avoid blunt angles like sharp bangs, or sharp straight layers. A middle part should also be avoided if you don’t want to accentuate the jawline or angles.

Hair Parts for Diamond face: Side part

Diamond face shapes typically have high, defined cheekbones, chin and overall, more visible bone structure. With a defined bone structure, texture, waves and curls can help to frame the face and soften the diamond shape. Similar to the square face shape, a side part really complements this type of face shape. It’s also important to keep in mind that shorter hairstyles or medium length hair look best with the diamond shape face as very long hair may overshadow your face.

Victoria Beckham is not just a fashion icon, but a hair style icon when it comes to the diamond face shape. The former Spice Girl truly knows her angles and pairs her hairstyles well to define her bone structure.

The French bob hairstyle is the perfect short cut for a diamond face shape.

Hair Parts for Oval face: Any hair part!

If you have an oval face, you’ve essentially won the face shape lottery – it doesn’t matter how you part your hair, it will look good on you. If you have an oval face shape and you’ve worn your hair part the same way consistently, don’t be afraid to switch it up – trust us, it will look great. If you have curly hair and an oval face you can play with the volume of your curls and your hair part to help accentuate your face shape.

Using hair extensions helps to create natural-looking volume and will help to frame your face nicely no matter how you decide to part your hair. With an oval face, you can also pull off a variety of hairstyles, use this to your advantage to play with length and texture!

Both Shay Mitchell and Bella Hadid have oval face shapes and you can see in the variety of hair styles and hair parts they wear, that nothing ever looks out of place or off-side. We are not jealous, just in awe.

Hair Parts for Heart face shapes: Side part

With a heart shape face, side parts work to soften the cheekbones and the chin. With a heart-shaped face, the chin and cheekbones can be more pronounced. A harsh middle part may pronounce a pointed chin and bring attention to the center of the face. However, a softer middle part with bangs or added volume can help sharpen your features.

Soft bangs and a middle part also can work for heart shaped faces. Hair extensions offer natural volume and length that you can easily style with your side part and can help complement any style you’re trying to achieve to accentuate your heart face shape.

and most importantly…

How you part your hair should make you feel comfortable

Our go-to hair part definitely offers comfort and familiarity. Your hair may also naturally part a certain way and you may have to finesse it a bit to change directions – that’s ok. Sometimes switching up how you part your hair can give you a whole new look with just a little effort. Don’t let your go-to hair part restrict your hairstyle possibilities.

If you need more help trying out new hair parts that suits your face shape, ask your stylist at your next appointment, or simply experiment at home. The above pointers are a great reference if you’re looking to figure out how to best part your hair for your face shape, but ultimately, when it comes down to it, hair parts really come down to personal preference.

What’s your go-to hair part? And are you willing to try something new?

Written by: Rosalyn Solomon

Why You Can’t Trust Most “Best Of” Beauty Roundups Anymore

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Are you looking for a review of best moisturizer for your skin type? Keep in mind, there is a huge difference between reporting and reviewing.

Well… Nothing opens your eyes quite like a peek behind the curtain.


Wirecutter reporting with alternative facts.

My fascination with skincare started in my late teens. By nineteen, I had a full-on product wardrobe that included piles of Yves Rocher and whatever CVS coupon gave me the biggest win in the weekend newspaper. In my twenties, I got a front-row seat to how marketing operates by working at a major beauty brand. In my thirties, I started a blog, landed on more PR lists than I can count, and contributed product roundups for other outlets.

For years, I was, and still very much am, the customer. One who Googles “best of” and considers my purchases accordingly. Over the years, I’ve read hundreds of “best skincare,” “best moisturizer,” and beauty product roundup lists while shopping for myself. I’m in my forties now and I’m here to tell you something that might ruin your afternoon: a lot of those roundups are nonsense. Not all of them, but enough that you should assume the list has an agenda until proven otherwise.

The money grab in beauty has gotten too blatant to ignore. Influencer platforms aside, I’ve watched news organizations, fashion magazines, and lifestyle retailers all launch beauty sections. Some were genuinely good. Most disappeared. The shift to affiliate revenue now dictates what gets placed in front of you online, how it’s framed, and how aggressively it’s sold.

On beauty roundups and affiliate incentives

To be clear, I’m not here to police affiliate links. I use them too. They’re a legitimate way to earn from evergreen content, especially if you’re actually doing the work and building a real library of reviews. Most importantly, if you make recommendations based on actual experience with the product in question.

What matters is the pay-for-play ecosystem that sits just beneath the surface. This isn’t exclusive to beauty. It happens everywhere. It’s not inherently wrong, but it’s easy to abuse. There’s a difference between a genuine thank-you gift and a perk designed to influence coverage. Trips, dinners, facials, experiences. You get the idea.

As someone who loves curating, it’s disheartening to hear how often product picks get assigned. Not suggested. Assigned. Because an editor went on a trip, a brand hosted an event, or someone received a treatment. The same goes for many magazine awards. I’m sorry if that ruins the fantasy, but that’s often how the cookie crumbles.

What triggered this post is something I saw online last year while searching for a moisturizer. I landed on a Wirecutter piece. Wirecutter, a The New York Times–owned product review site, positions itself as a rigorous testing operation, which should inspire confidence. But the writing felt oddly optimized, and one detail made me pause. You know what they say about things that make you go ‘hmm’…


Augustinus Bader NY Times Wirecutter review is a lie
The testers liked the light scent of Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream. The scent that isn’t there.

When the details stop lining up

Their “best moisturizers” roundup lists Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream. Of course it does. And look, I like the product. I liked it enough that I struggled with a first-impressions take when it launched, then waited a couple of years before writing a dedicated post about it. It’s expensive, and I don’t think it’s responsible to recommend $300-plus skincare based on a few nights of “vibes”. I’ve received it from the brand more than once, and I’ve also bought it twice with my own money. That’s the ultimate test.

So why do I take issue with the Wirecutter blurb? Because the details aren’t factual.

The writer downplays a “big deal” about The Rich Cream allegedly containing added fragrance and suggests it’s the rare luxury pick that won’t overwhelm you with scent. There’s also a performative dig at other luxury brands that leans on a tired, internet-y reference. The whole thing reads like it was stitched together from a marketing mood board, not actual use.

And to be clear, I don’t have a problem with fragrance in skincare. I’ve said that many times before. I actually enjoy it when it’s done well. This isn’t a sensitivity issue or a moral stance. It’s a facts issue.

Do not get me started on this bit. Only the 15ml travel-size container is glass. 30ml, 50ml, 100ml are all plastic. Again, the only thing flawed here is the reporting…

Here’s the problem. Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream does not contain fragrance. A quick glance at the ingredient list tells you that. And if you’ve used it consistently, like I have, you already know it’s unscented. It isn’t subtle and fresh. It’s subtle in its non-existence. The only fresh thing here is my attitude.

Now I’m curious to see how quickly Wirecutter edits that section and whether they reconsider how aggressively they push people to splurge when basic fact-checking seems optional. Apparently the budget for accuracy is the true luxury item nowadays.

Ingredient list for The Rich Cream by Augustinus Bader
No fragrance added. No scent to the cream.

I rarely get wired (no pun intended, I swear) like this but other posts that fit the mood of the above:


Affiliate disclosure: some links on this site may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you choose to purchase through them. This does not influence my opinions or what I choose to write about.