Rochelle Barrand

Rochelle Barrand highlights five beauty advent calendars anticipated for 2026: Lush, LookFantastic, Marks & Spencer, ESPA and NEOM Wellbeing. Lush’s 29½ High Street calendar is already available for £135 and contains 25 bath products, while LookFantastic’s £120 calendar will feature 27 products selected by 25 curators and launches on 1 September. M&S, ESPA and NEOM have released fewer details, though their expected themes include premium mixed-brand beauty, luxury wellness and sleep or mood-focused products. The article presents the calendars as distinctive options likely to attract early Christmas shoppers and potentially sell out.

Boots has launched its Jawhara collection of five Arabian-inspired Eau de Parfums, each priced at £14.99. The range includes Oud Velvet, Sweet Dates, Golden Nectar, Sultan Rose and Amberwood Nomad, with scent profiles ranging from sweet and floral to warm and woody. Its coloured-glass bottles and gold lettering are presented as giving the perfumes a premium appearance, while the fragrances are promoted as affordable, long-lasting options for summer occasions.

Kérastase’s Elixir Ultime Originale Hair Oil is promoted as a lightweight treatment that smooths frizz, boosts shine and helps reduce the appearance of split ends. The 30ml bottle is available on Amazon for £19.56, down from a recommended retail price of £28, while larger sizes are also discounted. Positive customer feedback highlights immediate improvements in smoothness and softness, with the product usable before styling, after blow-drying or between washes.

ELEMIS’ Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm is highlighted as a bestselling cleanser praised by shoppers for its luxurious texture, spa-like scent, effective makeup removal and suitability for sensitive skin. The balm changes from a rich cleanser to an oil and then a cleansing milk when mixed with water. ELEMIS user trials reported high rates of satisfaction for makeup removal and skin softness. The product is available in several versions and is discounted on Amazon to £34.92 from a recommended retail price of £52.

The Yoto Player has become a favourite with the writer’s two- and four-year-old nephews because it lets them independently choose stories, songs and adventures without using a screen. Their mother values its extensive audio library, its ability to keep the children engaged for long periods, and its encouragement of imagination and reading-related interests. She also enjoys listening to Harry Potter audiobooks on the device, making it appealing for the whole family.

e.l.f. Cosmetics and RED Driving School have launched the “Grip, Set, Go” giveaway, offering up to 5,000 learner drivers a complimentary one-hour driving lesson. Applications through the e.l.f. website are open until July 31, with vouchers sent to successful entrants after the closing date. The campaign highlights the rising cost of lessons, tests and insurance, while promoting e.l.f.’s Power Grip cosmetics range.

The Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition introduces a colour display, faster performance and a sharper, more comfortable screen, offering a notable upgrade over older Kindle models. Its higher cost compared with the Kindle Paperwhite may be difficult to justify for readers who primarily consume text‑only fiction, but it provides strong value for those who read illustrated content such as comics or cookbooks. Enhanced storage, long battery life and wireless charging support add to its appeal, making it a worthwhile upgrade for many users.

Mylee Gel Toe Wraps provide a fast, glossy, long-lasting at-home pedicure without needing an LED or UV lamp, offering simple application, strong durability and easy removal with Mylee’s remover oil. Limited colour options and higher cost per pack are drawbacks, though the convenience makes them appealing for holidays and events. Additional e.l.f. Cosmetics products are highlighted for building a long-wear makeup routine.

Arencia’s Rice Mochi Cleanser is praised for its gentle, effective cleansing and unique dough-like texture, outperforming harsher cleansers by leaving skin soft and comfortable. The writer notes its reputation within K‑beauty and highlights a limited‑time Amazon discount. Additional beauty recommendations from e.l.f Cosmetics are included, emphasising their suitability for long‑wear makeup routines.

A discounted Garnier Method for Curls Full Routine is available at LookFantastic for £17.98, offering a 50% saving on a four‑step curl‑care system including pre‑shampoo treatment, shampoo, conditioning mask and leave‑in spray. The products feature ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and shea butter and are positioned as suitable for all curl types, aiming to improve hydration, softness and curl definition. The bundle is presented as a convenient way for shoppers to streamline their haircare routine and represents a significant price reduction.