The final column from our long-time beauty writer reflects on choices and changes in her years with the Observer

Sleep is the best beauty treatment, but with insomnia now a national condition, the sleep economy is booming

Hairlessness is next to cleanliness, but there’s no reason for that to be the case

When it’s hard enough to get a dental appointment these days, why are we all chasing perfection?

Prepare to be transformed, but be warned: there is no one-size-fits-all solution

What you need ultimately depends on the skin you have, but more steps doesn’t necessarily mean a better end result

Banned chemicals, sunbeds for your hands… There are definitely factors to consider

There’s a beauty supplement for almost every conceivable condition, but do they work and why are we so smitten by them?

Soaking in a bath isn’t about getting clean, it’s about putting the world to rights. Here’s why you need to slip beneath the bubbles

For years all men had to do to show up was brush their hair and smell good. But that’s all changed now

Has the price of beauty become a tax we accept for the privilege of presenting ourselves in public?

Scent is a very personal thing, but some fragrances are more divisive than others…

Deodorants had always been about function – but this everyday essential has been given a glow-up

No lotion is going to cure tired eyes, but the ritual of a good eye cream is still one that makes us feel better

A poor night’s sleep leaves its mark on your face, but with clever brightening and light-reflecting products you can look – and feel – a little fresher

Rehydrating and repairing your skin is a job that can’t be rushed. These products will work their magic while you sleep

For the right effect it’s important to find exactly the right product for your type of skin