Natalia Kulak

Christmas has been creeping forward for years, but in 2026 it appears to have annexed August. While much of Britain was still buying SPF and attempting to make the most of the bank holiday, beauty brands are already opening waitlists, taking pre-orders and releasing some of the season's most coveted advent calendars.

Dr.Reju-All has expanded its UK skincare collection with the launch of the Advanced PDRN Copper Peptide Serum, a cooling formula developed to support skin recovery, firmness and barrier function. The serum is aimed at concerns including uneven texture, loss of elasticity, visible signs of ageing and a weakened skin barrier. Its launch also taps into the growing interest in temperature-responsive skincare. According to clinical testing, the serum can reduce the skin's surface temperature by up to 5°C immediately after application.

Rituals Cosmetics has launched Uukumwe, a limited-edition bath, body and home collection inspired by Namibian heritage and the idea that wellbeing is better when it is shared. Described as a Namibian word for unity and togetherness, Uukumwe shifts the focus from “me time” towards “we time”, turning everyday beauty routines into opportunities to slow down, reconnect and care for ourselves and those around us.

French beauty and wellness brand DAY+ is entering the UK through an exclusive partnership with Glorious Brands, bringing its combination of beauty supplements and high-performance skincare to British consumers from autumn 2026.

BYOMA has expanded its barrier-first skincare portfolio with Longevit-8 Peptide Serum, its most advanced formula to date and the brand's first product developed specifically around skin longevity.

The Body Shop is relaunching its cult Body Butter collection with 11 reformulated variants designed around different skin types, textures and moisture needs.

Margaret Dabbs London has expanded its presence at Harrods, relaunching its treatment offering within The Wellness Clinic on the fourth floor and securing a new standalone retail listing on the fifth floor.

Shark Beauty is expanding its at-home LED portfolio beyond facial skincare with the launch of CryoGlow Clinic Face + Body, its first system designed to treat both the face and body. Launching on 9 September, the device has been clinically tested to target eight areas associated with visible ageing, including forehead lines, crow's feet, frown lines, lines around the lips, smile lines, the neck, chest and hands.

The Organic Pharmacy has entered the retinal category with the launch of Retinal Renewal Night Serum, a pharmacist-formulated overnight treatment combining 0.03% encapsulated retinal with 0.5% bakuchiol, peptides and rose water.

Armani Beauty is introducing a playful new chapter to its colour portfolio with Armani Dolci Makeup Blush, the first release from the brand's new Dolci Makeup collection. Ahead of its nationwide launch, shade 5 Mauve Blush appeared on Rebecca Donaldson at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival. Makeup artist Kelly McClain used the rich mauve shade to create a softly flushed finish that complemented Donaldson's red carpet look.