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21 Best Gifts For Teenage Girls Guaranteed To Earn You Aura Points

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21 Best Gifts For Teenage Girls Guaranteed To Earn You Aura Points

“As a teacher, I get a front-row seat to what’s trending in teen culture, and right now, it’s all about confidence, creativity, and a hint of rebellion,” says class teacher Sam Jackson. “Teen girls are deep in their K-pop era, and anything that channels that energy is an instant obsession. From the new Demon Hunter films to TikTok dance trends that take over before lunch break, they’re drawn to stories and sounds that mix fashion, freedom, and fun.” Gotcha.

And when I begged for more, she delivered: “What’s most impressive, though, is how polished this generation is. While I was lucky if I remembered to wash my face as a teen, many of my students have full skincare routines AND walk into class glowing and smelling wonderful. And in a sweet twist, toys are back. From Labubus figures to Jellycats, there’s something beautifully nostalgic about it.”

Post-primary Spanish teacher Cíara McDonnell adds, “Honestly, the answer changes every day. With how fast social media moves, it’s nearly impossible to keep up. One day, they’re re-bingeing The Summer I Turned Prettyand the next, they’re trying to learn the latest TikTok dance trend.

“But Gen Z aren’t just following trends — they’re setting them. Every week, there is a new ‘must-have’ product. Currently, they’re all about slicking back their hair with the latest viral gel or finding the perfect lip stain.”

So, to summarise, low-risk gifts include high-quality pyjama sets, makeup brushes, fancy footwear (AKA UGG boots and fashion trainers), tech gifts for teens and wellness gifts aplenty — think weighted blankets, silk pillowcases and dressing gowns. Oh, and experience days rather than gift cards if material gifts aren’t your vibe.

However, to save you from browsing all of the above, I’ve narrowed your options down to 21 perfect gifts. And for those shopping for personalised gifts or gifts for teenage boys, I’ve rounded up suitable options too, as well as budget-friendly options for those seeking gifts under £100 and gifts under £50.

Ahead, the best gifts for teenage girls for 2026, approved by Glamour’s gifting editor:

Our Gold Standard for Glow – 100% PURE

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Our Gold Standard for Glow – 100% PURE

There is a specific, wonderful kind of magic that happens when you look in the mirror and finally see the version of yourself that you feel like on the inside—rested, vibrant, and full of life. We’ve all had those mornings where our skin feels a bit “hushed,” shadowed by the stress of a long week or the lingering dullness of a changing season. But what if you could bottle that post-vacation radiance?

At 100% PURE, we call our Brightening Serum “Liquid Confidence”. It’s not just a step in a routine; it’s an emotionally generous gift to yourself. It’s about that “aha” moment when the dullness lifts, and you’re left with a complexion that looks lit from within. This is the heart of Susie’s vision: creating high-performing beauty that makes you feel as good as you look.

What’s Inside the Bottle: A Symphony of Botanicals

When we talk about what makes this serum special, we aren’t just looking at a list of ingredients; we’re looking at a carefully composed symphony of nature’s most effective brighteners. We don’t believe in overloading you with clinical jargon that sounds like a lab report. Instead, we want to share the story of why these botanicals were chosen to help your skin thrive.

Sake: The Ancient Secret for Modern Texture

Long before modern skincare, sake (fermented rice water) was cherished for its ability to soften and brighten the skin. In our serum, sake acts as a gentle architect for your skin’s texture. It’s rich in enzymes and amino acids that help smooth away roughness, leaving your face feeling incredibly silky and refined. When your skin texture is smooth, it reflects light more evenly, which is the true secret to that “youthful glow”.

Licorice Root: The Master of Balance

If sake is the architect, licorice root is the peacekeeper. We use it to help balance the appearance of your skin tone. It’s a beautifully gentle way to address the look of dark spots or unevenness without the harshness of synthetic lighteners. It leaves your complexion looking calm, clear, and beautifully uniform.

Fruit-Derived Acids: The Final Polish

To ensure your skin is always ready to drink in these nutrients, we’ve included a delicate touch of fruit-derived acids. These aren’t the kind of acids that leave your skin feeling raw or stripped. Instead, they provide a gentle “polish,” lifting away the very top layer of dullness to reveal the fresh, vibrant skin underneath.

Why This Serum is a “Gold Standard”

In a world of “viral” trends and overnight sensations, the Brightening Serum stands apart as a true legacy product. Our “Gold Standard” status isn’t just a label; it’s a reflection of our 25-year history of chemical vigilance and scientific refusal to settle for “good enough”.

While other brands were chasing the latest synthetic fads, we spent over two decades perfecting this vegan, plant-based blend. We go back to our founding in 1999 and 2004, rooted in Susie’s discovery that stability is the key to performance. This serum is part of a larger ecosystem—the Radiance Renewal System—where every product is designed to support and amplify the work of the others.

When you use this serum, you aren’t just using a product; you’re benefiting from a quarter-century of innovation, made with love in our own San Jose facility to ensure maximum freshness and potency.

The Layering Secret for Maximum Radiance

To get that true, high-performance payoff, how you apply your serum is just as important as what’s inside it. We want to help you create a ritual that feels like an everyday indulgence while delivering visible results.

The Prep

Start with a clean, softened canvas using our Virgin Coconut Moisturizing Milk Foam. By removing impurities without stripping your natural oils, you ensure that the Brightening Serum can sink in deeply rather than just sitting on the surface.

The Treatment

Apply a few drops of the Brightening Serum to your face and neck while your skin is still slightly damp. This helps the sake and licorice move through the skin more effectively, infusing every cell with radiance.

The Seal

Here is the “pro-tip”: follow your serum immediately with the Vitamin C Face Cream. Think of the cream as a protective silk blanket that “seals in” all the brightening nutrients of the serum. Because our Vitamin C is stabilized, it works in harmony with the serum to brighten and protect all day long.

The Final Touch

Don’t forget the eyes! Gently pat on the Vitamin C Eye Cream to erase tired shadows and de-puff. This final step completes the “lit-from-within” look, leaving you ready to face the world with total confidence.

Conclusion: A Longtime Favorite for a Reason

At 100% PURE, we believe beauty should be celebratory and results-driven. This serum has been a “brightening super star” and a customer favorite for years because it delivers a transformation you can actually see in the mirror.

It’s about more than just “skincare.” It’s about the feeling of waking up, looking in the mirror, and loving what you see. It’s about nourishment, restoration, and the quiet power of a routine that truly cares for you. We invite you to experience this “Liquid Confidence” for yourself and join the thousands of women who have made it their gold standard for glow.

FAQ Section

How long should I wait after applying the serum to moisturize?

You don’t need to wait long at all! In fact, we recommend applying your Vitamin C Face Cream while the serum is still slightly tacky on the skin. This helps lock in the hydration and ensures the active ingredients are sealed in for maximum absorption.

Does the Brightening Serum help with post-acne marks?

Yes, beautifully! Thanks to the combination of licorice root and sake, this serum is excellent at addressing the look of “shadows” or dark spots left behind by past blemishes. It helps to balance the appearance of your skin tone, leaving it looking clear, smooth, and refreshed.

Can I use this serum during the day under makeup?

Absolutely. One of the reasons our customers love this serum is its lightweight, silky texture. It sinks in almost instantly, creating a smooth, hydrated base that helps your makeup lay more beautifully and stay fresh throughout the day. Plus, the antioxidants provide an extra layer of protection against the environmental stressors you encounter during the day.

Everything You Need to Know About the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF Formulas

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Everything You Need to Know About the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF Formulas

Last Updated on April 6, 2026 by omgbart

At first glance, everything about Beauty of Joseon is textbook K-beauty. The name. The aesthetic. The formulas. And by now you have probably heard the one about how the brand is not actually that popular in Korea. Or wasn’t, until Olive Young, Korea’s dominant beauty retail chain, started carrying the range.

This reminds me of Tatcha somewhat. During our trip to Japan in 2017, I learned that exactly one place carried it in the entire country. A hotel spa in Kyoto. That was it. There is nothing wrong with a brand building its identity around heritage without being a household name at home. The beauty industry is oversaturated and brutally competitive. Beauty of Joseon is neither a poser nor an anomaly. It just found its audience elsewhere first.

Now let’s talk sunscreen. Two of them, actually.

BEAUTY OF JOSEON spf formulas on marble tray with other skincare products.
These layer so well over any of my serums.

The One That Started It All

At this point, the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF 50 is practically furniture. Everyone who has spent any time in the skincare space knows the cream-colored tube with the white cap. Muted, elevated, more presence than half the luxury SPFs on the market. I am here for it.

Outside the US, Beauty of Joseon currently offers two Relief Sun formulas: the original Rice + Probiotics and the newer Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5. Both are SPF 50 PA++++, both are unscented. Both are very good. Trust me on this one.

Beauty of Joseon sunscreen application selfie.

Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF 50

This is the one that converts people. Not because of clever marketing, but because of feel. It looks like a cream, behaves like a lotion, and absorbs like a serum. If you have spent your life avoiding sunscreen because of white cast, greasy finish, or that chemical smell, this formula sidesteps all of it.

Beauty of Joseon SPF with rice and probiotics texture swatch on skin.

One thing to be clear about: it is not a moisturiser. It hydrates, yes, and delivers real treatment through niacinamide for brightening and adenosine for firming. A stack of fermented ingredients, including multiple strains of lactobacillus and saccharomyces ferment filtrates, supports the microbiome angle the brand leans into. But UV protection is the primary job. Everything else is a bonus.

On application it goes on with a brief white cast that vanishes in seconds. No sheen, no purple tint, no residue. Layers seamlessly over moisturiser without pilling.

Beauty of Joseon sun relief aqua fresh spf application on skin.

Relief Sun: Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5 SPF 50

Lighter on contact but with more grip on the skin. Where the original reads creamy, the Aqua-Fresh is more of a water-gel that sets to a dry-touch finish almost immediately. Not tight exactly, but there is a comfortable firmness after it absorbs that some people will love and others will notice.

Beauty of Joseon Aqua fresh SPF texture on skin.

The formula is more focused on barrier support. Ceramide NP, phytosphingosine, sodium hyaluronate, and rice bran oil form a genuinely nourishing base. Panthenol, the B5 in the name, helps the skin retain moisture and recover from daily environmental stress.

The ferulic acid and tocopherol pairing also actively supports the UV filters’ photoprotection rather than just sitting there decoratively. If your skin runs dry or needs more structural support from its morning routine, this is the more considered choice.

Beauty of Joseon sunscreen tubes with caps off on a marble tray.

Which one is for you

Both formulas feel like creams rather than fluids, sink in fast, and leave nothing behind. The difference is in what they are doing underneath.

The Rice + Probiotics is your multitasking SPF. Treatment-forward, microbiome-friendly, and genuinely suited to every skin type, including those prone to redness. It does the UV job and then some.

The Aqua-Fresh is your barrier-first SPF. Soothing, ceramide-rich, loaded with antioxidants, and very focused on hydration. If your skin tends to tip oily by midday, this is the one.

Beauty of Joseon sunscreen texture swatches.

The Bit About UV Filters

The UV filter systems also differ between the two, and it is worth understanding what is actually in each formula and why none of it is currently FDA approved for the US market.

In both formulas
Rice + Probiotics only
Aqua-Fresh only

Filter (INCI) Common name Coverage Note
Diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate
both		 Uvinul A Plus UVA Strong long-wave UVA absorber. Oil-soluble, excellent photostability.
Ethylhexyl triazone
both		 Uvinul T 150 UVB Highly efficient UVB filter. Very photostable.
Methylene bis-benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutylphenol
Rice + Probiotics		 Tinosorb M UVA + UVB Hybrid filter that works by both absorption and reflection. Broad spectrum.
Diethylhexyl butamido triazone
Rice + Probiotics		 Uvasorb HEB UVB Additional UVB support. Adds to the original formula’s protection depth.
Drometrizole trisiloxane
Aqua-Fresh		 Mexoryl XL UVA + UVB Silicone-based hybrid filter. Broad spectrum with an excellent skin feel contribution.
Terephthalidene dicamphor sulfonic acid
Aqua-Fresh		 Mexoryl SX UVA UVA specialist, particularly strong on long-wave UVA. Water-soluble.
Bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine
Aqua-Fresh		 Tinosorb S UVA + UVB Broad spectrum absorptive filter. Complements Mexoryl SX’s UVA range.

Both are worth trying. And each one overdelivers at its price point. And if you are new to either, know that whichever one you start with, the tube will be empty before you have made up your mind about the other.

Beauty of Joseon Sun Relief sunscreens run around $15-$20 per 50ml tube.

You can find them at lookfantastic.com, boots.com, oliveyoung.com, yesstyle.com, stylevana.com (code SHOPBART saves 10%), and beautybay.com.

Affiliate disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. I only recommend products I actually use and love. If you shop through these links, I may earn a small commission, which helps keep this site running.

A Beginner Strength Training Workout for People on GLP-1s

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A Beginner Strength Training Workout for People on GLP-1s

Millions of Americans are taking GLP-1 agonist medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound to lose weight, treat type 2 diabetes, and manage other chronic health conditions. And while these drugs are generally really effective, they can also bring on some not-so-great side effects, including a big drop in muscle mass for some people.

Losing muscle isn’t just an aesthetic bummer–it can make you more likely to develop sarcopenia down the road. Sarcopenia is a fancy term for low muscle mass, and it can lead to decreased strength, endurance, and mobility, as well as increased risk of falls and injuries later in life, as SELF previously reported. Basically, if you want to live a long, healthy life, you’ll want to avoid sarcopenia as best you can. And one effective way to lower your risk of it? Strength training.

Specifically, lifting heavy weights while taking a GLP-1 can help preserve your lean muscle mass as you lose weight, Gregory Norman, a certified personal trainer and regional personal training manager of Focus Integrated Fitness, tells SELF. Not only does training with heavy loads improve neural efficiency (basically, your body’s ability to effectively engage muscles), it also spurs your muscles to grow bigger and stronger.

With that in mind, Norman developed for SELF a total-body beginner strength workout geared towards people taking GLP-1s. (Important caveat: While this routine is designed to maintain and even grow your muscle mass, it may not be safe for everyone on GLP-1s. Before giving it a go, check with your doctor to understand if it’s the right choice for you.)

This routine features seven exercises that together hit all the basic movement patterns you need to work your entire body, Norman explains.

These include a lower-body push movement (squat); an upper-body horizontal push (hands-elevated push-up); an upper-body horizontal pull (dumbbell bent-over row); a lower-body pull (dumbbell glute bridge); an upper-body vertical push (high plank to downward dog tap); upper-body vertical pull (dumbbell pullover); and a bonus core move (the dead bug).

All of these moves are compound exercises, meaning they work multiple joints at a time. Compared to isolation exercises, where just one joint works at a time (like tricep extensions or hamstring curls, for example), compound moves recruit more muscles, which makes them an efficient, effective choice for maintaining and growing your muscle mass.

Norman recommends doing this full-body workout two to three times per week, with rest days taken in between each session.

Dr. Barbara Sturm The Peptide Serum: Review with Photos

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Dr. Barbara Sturm The Peptide Serum: Review with Photos

A Closer Look at the Formula

Dr. Barbara Sturm’s formula doesn’t rely on just one peptide. Are you ready? You’ve got acetyl octapeptide-3 and hexapeptide-3, often referred to as “neurotransmitter-inhibiting” peptides, which help limit muscle contractions so, over time, expression lines look a little softer. As Dr. Ibrahim explains, “they work similarly in concept to Botox by dialing down the intensity of repeated facial movements.” Then there’s palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 (a.k.a. Matrixyl), a longtime staple that signals fibroblasts to produce more collagen and elastin. Rounding things out, acetyl-tetrapeptide-2 and decapeptide-4 “support collagen production and act a bit like growth factors, encouraging overall skin repair,” adds Dr. Ibrahim.

Lee applying the Dr. Barbara Sturm The Peptide Serum

Christa Joanna Lee

Then there are supporting ingredients, including amino acids—glycine, proline, and arginine—which, as Dr. Safaee explains, “are essential building blocks of collagen itself.” In other words, peptides tell the skin what to make; amino acids make it happen.

And importantly, the formula doesn’t forget about hydration: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and a mix of oils and butters keep the barrier intact. Because, as Dr. Ibrahim points out, “there’s no point in stimulating collagen if your skin barrier is too compromised to function properly.”

First Impressions

It’s more milky than I expected from a serum, but it makes sense once you look at the formula: As mentioned, there are water-binding humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, but also emollients and lipids—think shea butter, sunflower oil, almond oil, and vitamin E—suspended into that base. That combination gives it that softly opaque, almost lotion-like look.

Lee applying the Dr. Barbara Sturms The Peptide Serum

Lee applying the Dr. Barbara Sturm’s The Peptide Serum

Christa Joanna Lee

5 Best Express Tans I’ve Tried As A Tan-Obsessed Beauty Editor

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5 Best Express Tans I’ve Tried As A Tan-Obsessed Beauty Editor

How I tested express tans:

Half the tans in this lineup are long-time ride-or-dies that are yet to be topped. But for any new additions, I went full beauty editor mode — calling in samples, blocking out time, and giving each one a proper trial run.

I spent a whole month testing express tan launches for Glamour UK.

I gave myself a full week with each tan so I could see the whole journey: how it developed, how it faded, and whether it left me looking glowy or… slightly questionable. Every product was applied to freshly exfoliated, clean skin using a mitt (non-negotiable), and put through its paces at least once.

I judged them on the things that actually matter: the smell, how easy and quick application and development was, how long the glow stuck around, and — most importantly — the final finish. Only the best made the cut.

Why you can trust me:

As a beauty editor who quite literally got a spray tan to give birth, I don’t take my glow lightly. I know exactly the kind of confidence a good faux tan can bring — and over the years, I’ve converted more than a few sceptics (friends, family, and yes, even unsuspecting strangers). “What do you mean you don’t wear face sunscreen and you’ve never fake tanned? Please take a seat.”

Still not convinced? Let me take you back nearly a decade to my very first job as an editorial assistant, where I wrote a print first-person piece titled “My Love Letter to Fake Tan.” It even included multiple photos of me gazing adoringly at my favourite bottles. So yes, you’re in very safe (perfectly bronzed) hands.

READ MORE: The best fake tans for black skin.

Ahead, the best express tans I’ve tried.

1. My Favourite Overall: St Tropez Self Tan Express Dark

St. Tropez Express Dark Whipped Mousse

**I tested the St. Tropez Express Dark Whipped Mousse for the first time last week. **

Image may contain Body Part Face Head Neck Person Adult Cosmetics Can and Tin

This express tan is tens across the board.

Why I love it: “I tried this self-tan for the first time last week and, honestly, it was tens across the board. I had a packed week of events ahead, so I applied it on a Monday morning while working from home, throwing on an old pair of PJs for the three-hour development time.

“Over the following week, I had countless compliments on how good my tan looked—which is always the ultimate test. What really stood out to me was the whipped, skincare-infused formula, which glides on effortlessly and leaves skin feeling smooth, hydrated and evenly bronzed. It also smelt super pleasant at every stage of the process.

“It lasted a solid week, faded beautifully without any patchiness, and even tricky areas like my feet and elbows were easy to buff away with a remover mitt. St Tropez, if you’re reading this, I deserve shares for the number of people I’ve convinced to buy this in such a short space of time.”

  • Minimum to maximum development time: one to three hours.
  • Pros: non-drying; long-lasting; streak-free; three shades to choose from. It absorbs quickly.
  • Cons: I’m yet to find anything I don’t like.

2. Best For a Deep, Dark Tan: Bali Body 1 Hour Deep Violet Express Tan

The Bali Body Deep Violet Express Tan is another new releases I’ve spent the past month testing.

Bali Body 1 Hour Deep Violet Express Tan 225ml

Image may contain Cosmetics Adult Person Face and Head

My skin after using the Bali Body 1 Hour Deep Violet Express Tan.

Why I love it: “If, like me, you are looking for the deepest, darkest finish possible from your fake tan, look no further than Bali Body’s newest addition. The violet base neutralises yellow and orange tones and the rapid development means it can easily be slotted into a hectic schedule.

The palm oil alternative that doesn’t rely on trees

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The palm oil alternative that doesn’t rely on trees

Palm oil is everywhere in cosmetics – not just in creams and balms, but buried deep inside emulsifiers, surfactants, fatty alcohols, and the many other functional ingredients that help our cosmetic products perform as they should.

In fact, around 70% of cosmetic products worldwide contain at least one palm-derived raw material. And even though the beauty industry uses only a relatively small portion of the roughly 75 million tonnes of palm oil produced each year globally, it remains deeply reliant on it because it’s cheap, versatile, and structurally brilliant for formulation.

But that reliance raises some difficult questions. Palm oil production is closely tied to land use, monocultures and global supply chains that are increasingly vulnerable to climate instability and geopolitical pressures.

We often talk about sustainable palm oil or responsible sourcing, yet we rarely pause to ask a much more radical question: what if palm oil didn’t need to come from trees at all? That is exactly what we discuss in this episode of Green Beauty Conversations.

In this episode, Formula Botanica CEO Lorraine Dallmeier is joined by Nemailla Bonturi, co-founder and CEO of ÄIO, an Estonian biotechnology company pioneering the next generation of fermentation-derived oils for cosmetics and personal care.

Nemailla explains how fermentation technology can create oils with similar structures to palm oil and tropical butters – without relying on trees or large areas of agricultural land.

This episode will challenge the way you think about ingredient sourcing. From bright red antioxidant-rich oils to solid lipid complexes designed to replace tropical butters, the possibilities are both fascinating and disruptive.

If you care about the future of palm oil, sustainable formulation, or the next generation of cosmetic ingredients, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss!

Listen here

“If we produced the oils the world needs using fermentation, we could dramatically reduce the land required for oil production.” — Nemailla Bonturi

In this episode with Nemailla Bonturi, you will hear:

  • The science behind fermentation-derived oils: Nemailla explains how a specialised yeast strain can convert sugars and other carbon sources into oils through fermentation. Unlike traditional plant oils, which are extracted from seeds, fruits or nuts, these microbial oils are produced inside fermentation tanks. This allows scientists to control and tailor the fatty acid profile, so the resulting oils can mimic the composition of palm oil or tropical butters used in cosmetics.
  • Why palm oil alternatives matter for the beauty industry: Palm oil is widely used in cosmetics because it is cheap, versatile and structurally ideal for formulation. However, the industry’s heavy reliance on palm-derived materials ties beauty to global land use, monocultures and complex supply chains. Finding alternatives to palm oil could help future-proof the cosmetics industry and reduce its environmental footprint.
  • Turning waste streams into high-value cosmetic ingredients: ÄIO’s process can use a variety of feedstocks to nourish its yeast – including molasses and other sugar-rich side streams. The aim is to work within a circular economy model by transforming existing industrial residues into valuable cosmetic oils.
  • The oil that could replace palm oil for good: One of ÄIO’s most striking ingredients is its naturally red oil, coloured by carotenoids produced by the yeast during fermentation. These pigments include beta-carotene and other red carotenoids that contribute powerful antioxidant properties.
  • New ingredient formats for formulators: The company has also developed several ingredient formats, including liquid oils, solid lipid complexes and powdered encapsulated oils. Each format addresses different formulation challenges – from replacing tropical butters to providing exfoliating or hair-care-friendly powdered ingredients.

Key takeaways include:

  • Fermentation could dramatically reduce land use for oil production: Producing oils through microbial fermentation has the potential to drastically reduce land requirements compared with conventional agriculture. Nemailla explains that meeting global demand for oils traditionally requires vast areas of land. In contrast, fermentation systems could produce the same quantities using dramatically smaller physical footprints.
  • Microbial oils can mimic traditional cosmetic ingredients like palm oil: By adjusting fermentation parameters, scientists can tailor the composition of microbial oils to resemble palm oil or tropical butters used in cosmetics. These lipids can behave similarly in formulations, including melting on contact with skin and integrating well into emulsions. In some cases, they may even offer improved functionality or performance compared with conventional plant-derived alternatives.
  • Fermentation offers supply chain resilience: Traditional vegetable oils rely on agricultural cycles, climate conditions and geopolitics, which can cause supply fluctuations. Fermentation technology operates in controlled environments, meaning production can continue regardless of seasonal changes. This approach could create more stable ingredient supply chains for cosmetic manufacturers while also reducing dependence on specific geographic growing regions.
  • Sustainability depends on how ingredients are produced: An ingredient’s sustainability profile isn’t just about the material itself but also about the production system behind it. Fermentation can use less water than agriculture and operate on a much smaller land footprint. When combined with local feedstocks and circular economy principles, it offers an alternative model for producing cosmetic oils with reduced environmental pressure.

Meet our guest: Nemailla Bonturi, co-founder and CEO of ÄIO

Podcast 311: The palm oil alternative that doesn’t rely on treesPodcast 311: The palm oil alternative that doesn’t rely on treesNemailla Bonturi is the co-founder and CEO of ÄIO, the Estonian biotech company creating the next generation of fermentation‑derived oils and ingredients for cosmetics and personal care.

Nemailla is particularly passionate about reshaping how the industry sources lipids and speciality oils, advocating for ingredients that are not only effective but also responsibly produced.

ÄIO is on a mission to transform how fats and oils are produced and used globally by replacing unsustainable traditional sources like palm oil, coconut oil, and animal fats with healthier, microbial alternatives.

The company’s collaborations span from early‑stage beauty startups exploring greener formulations to established brands looking to future‑proof their ingredient portfolios.

Find out more about Nemailla & ÄIO:

Special offer for listeners: ÄIO is currently offering small samples of their ingredients to formulators who would like to test them in their formulations in return for honest feedback. Head on over to ÄIO’s website to get in touch and find out more!

Related episodes:

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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Foundayo vs. Wegovy: How Do the New Weight Loss Pills Compare?

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Foundayo vs. Wegovy: How Do the New Weight Loss Pills Compare?

If you’re on a weight loss journey, you now have an arsenal of medications at your disposal. And while injectable medications have dominated the space for years, GLP-1 weight loss pills are now on the table. As of this week, you have your choice of two: Wegovy (semaglutide) or Foundayo (orforglipron).

If you know you want to try a weight loss medication, but can’t get behind the idea of sticking yourself with a needle, it makes sense to narrow the field to these two options. How can you make a choice? It’s important to know the ins and outs of each before making a decision with the help of a healthcare professional. Here’s how doctors recommend navigating this.

What is the Wegovy pill?

The Wegovy pill, which is made by Novo Nordisk, is an FDA-approved oral semaglutide medication for adults with overweight or obesity. It’s the sister medication to the injectable form of Wegovy, which is also used for weight loss. Like the injectable form, the Wegovy pill is designed to be taken in smaller doses, before ramping up to a larger dose.

“Semaglutide has the longest real-world track record of any GLP-1 agent,” Tony Yang, DSc, MPH, professor in the Milken Institute School of Public Health in the Department of Health Policy and Management and associate dean for Health Policy and Population Science at George Washington University, tells SELF. “Physicians have years of experience managing its side effects, drug interactions, and dosing nuances.”

The Wegovy pill works by mimicking a protein in your body called glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1). It helps to reduce feelings of hunger and slows down the transit of food in your gut to help you feel fuller for longer. The Wegovy pill is designed to be taken once a day in the morning on an empty stomach with up to 4 ounces of water. Users need to wait 30 minutes before eating, drinking, or taking other oral medications after taking the Wegovy pill.

What is Foundayo?

Foundayo, aka orforglipron, is also a GLP-1 medication—it’s made by Lilly. Patients are also started on a lower dose before increasing to higher doses of the medication. “Orforglipron mimics GLP-1, a hormone your gut naturally releases after eating—the one that tells your brain ‘okay, we’re done here,’” Dr. Yang says.

“What makes it genuinely novel is its chemistry: It’s a small molecule, not a peptide,” he continues. “That distinction matters enormously.” Peptide-based GLP-1s like semaglutide—again, the active ingredient in Wegovy—get broken down by stomach acid, which is why they’ve historically required injections or very strict fasting protocols in the pill form to survive digestion, Dr. Yang explains.

Chanel and Pochet bet on MagREEsource’s French recycled magnets

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Chanel and Pochet bet on MagREEsource’s French recycled magnets

Several years in the making, the project is now set to come to fruition. Pochet Groupa specialist in multi-material packaging for the beauty and fragrance industries, is partnering with Chanel Perfumes Beauty to integrate a fully recycled, French-made magnet into the primary packaging of one of the luxury brand’s products — an innovation they describe as a first in the perfume industry.

Carbon footprint reduction

The project builds on the patented technology developed by MagREEsourcea spin-off of the CNRS founded in 2020. The company manufactures high-performance magnets in France, near Grenoble, using 100% recycled materials recovered from dismantled industrial and energy equipment.

According to a comparative life cycle analysis conducted by MagREEsource, recycling reduces the carbon footprint by 91% compared to a similar magnet produced from virgin material.

Though often invisible, magnets are widely used in luxury packaging—particularly in perfume bottle caps — where they enhance perceived quality. Given the strategic importance of these components, and the growing need to reduce the carbon footprint of packaging, Pochet engaged with MagREEsource early on and acquired a stake in the company last year.

French supply chain

Beyond its environmental benefits, the project also enables the relocation to France of production that was previously concentrated almost entirely in Asia, particularly in China. For Chanel and Pochet, it offers greater control over sourcing and supply chains.

From left to right: Julien Garry, Chief Operating Officer, Chanel Parfums Beauté; Sophie Rivoirard, co-founder, MagREEsource; and Xavier Gagey, Chairman of the Board, Groupe Pochet (Photo: © Laurine Paumard)




“MagREEsource’s ambition is to address the resilience and decarbonization challenges facing Europe’s high-performance magnet industry. Our collaboration with Groupe Pochet and Chanel Parfums Beauté — built over several years — has been instrumental in helping us develop and structure a robust manufacturing sector. With the upcoming construction of our new production site, we will continue to scale up (…). Our goal is to become Europe’s leading producer of magnets,” explains Érick Petit, President and Founder of MagREEsource.

“We are proud of this collaboration, which perfectly aligns with our approach of offering increasingly sustainable and meaningful innovations to our clients,” emphasizes Alexis Gosset, Director of Strategic Partnerships, Groupe Pochet.

“At Chanel Parfums Beauté, we are committed and convinced that it is essential to support and scale up a pioneering technology of this caliber,” adds Julien Garry, Director of Operations for Chanel Parfums Beauté.

How To Get Rid Of Razor Bumps, According To A Skincare Expert

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How To Get Rid Of Razor Bumps, According To A Skincare Expert

When it comes to hair removal, there are so many options. But before you reach for the razor, knowing how to get rid of razor bumps is essential.

While laser hair removal is great for the smug (and cashed-up), who are willing to go through pain ‘similar to a flicking of a hot rubber band’, to achieve hairless results, waxing is for the warriors among us who don’t mind being pinned down while another person rips their hair from the root. (Bikini waxers, we salute you.)

Meanwhile, sweet, easy peasy shaving can be done in a jiffy and doesn’t cost you the earth – but it can cost you your skin if done incorrectly. It’s unlikely that there’s anyone out there who hasn’t suffered from red, itchy bumps post-shave, but the good news is that it can be avoided.

Keep reading to find out how to get rid of razor bumps and how to be a bit savvier with your shave to avoid them in the first place.

Lather up properly

Soap, shower gel, shampoo, moisturiser – if you’re guilty of grabbing whatever is closest to lather up before your shave, this is your first mistake.

“While soap or shampoo may seem like good substitutions, they can be sabotaging the smooth results you crave, and the soaps in shower gels and shampoos can dry out your skin,” says Venus skincare ambassador Dr Anita Sturnham.

“Shave gels and creams are designed to complement the efficacy of their razors. They are rich in ingredients that are hydrating and lubricating to reduce friction when shaving.” In short: Go foam, or go home.

Gillette Venus For Pubic Hair & Skin

Jo Malone London Black Cedarwood & Juniper Shaving Cream

Save when you shop with these LookFantastic discount codes at checkout.

Never ever dry shave

It sounds simple, but it’s worth spelling out for those who don’t already know this. Dry shaving is a rash waiting to happen – don’t do it. “Dry shaving leads to increased friction between the razor blades and the skin, which can result in redness and irritation,” explains Dr Anita.

Fork out for a fancy razor

We know the 20-pack of razors for a fiver is tempting – not to mention a bloody good bargain – but those budget-friendly blades are almost always guaranteed irritation. “Although a razor may look like a simple grooming tool, the technology that goes into producing good quality ones, behind the scenes, really is quite astounding,” says Dr Anita. “A high-quality razor means that the blades will be carefully designed to deliver the smooth shave that women desire without the irritation.”

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