Fashion
Ex Boots worker ‘wishes she had’ their spot cream to treat acne


Beth spent years finding a solution to treat her blemish prone skin (Image: Bethan Shufflebotham)
As a teenager, writer Bethan Shufflebotham exhausted every possible remedy to treat her acne-prone skin, from prescribed solutions to over-the-counter products. However, skincare has evolved significantly since the 2010s, and had the brands and formulas available today been around a decade or so ago, she believes her skincare journey would have been revolutionised.
Her own personal experience has led her to be particularly interested in one of the latest brands to launch in the UK called The Breakout Hack. The Australian brand made its debut at Boots earlier this year. Like Beth, their co-founder Rachael Wilde endured a 13-year struggle with acne, which motivated her to create a vibrant brand based on patented technology aimed at preventing and managing breakouts without compromising skin health.

Some of the hero products from The Breakout Hack range (Image: The Breakout Hack)
Traditional acne-fighting formulas often depend on potentially harsh ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, which can leave skin parched and irritated. Potentially harmful to senstive skin, Beth once even had a severe allergic reaction to a benzoyl peroxide product bought over the counter, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Beth explained: “I started dealing with acne around the age of 10 and tried staples such as Clearasil’s rapid-action pads and Clean and Clear’s oil-free moisturiser. Both heavily relied on salicylic acid, which stung upon application and caused my already dry skin to produce even more oil in response.
“I experimented with prescription treatments like the antibacterial Zineryt – which felt akin to applying vinegar – and eventually, an over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide product that provoked a severe, peeling reaction.”
One notable aspect of the The Breakout Hack range is their avoidance of salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide in their formulas. Instead, they utilise patented technology initially developed for medical wound care.
This antibacterial system aims to dismantle the skin’s protective “biofilm,” targeting acne-causing bacteria. The brand claims that it can yield a clearer complexion in ‘as little as six weeks.
Skin care fans should note that whilst these products don’t cure acne, they provide a significant means for sufferers to manage their symptoms and maintain a gentle, non-irritating routine.
Another brand employing ingredients specifically designed to combat blemish-causing bacteria is 47 Skin. Their range includes an ingredient known as Silver Chitoderm, originally deemed unsuccessful for water purification but subsequently discovered to be a wonder ingredient for skincare.
Currently, seven of The Breakout Hack’s skincare lifesavers are available at Boots, with prices ranging from £12.99 to £21.99. Included in this selection are some of the brand’s standout formulas, such as the Spot Cream and Spot Cleanser.
Priced at £15.99, the Spot Cream is touted as a hydrating, non-drying cream formulated to target spot-inducing bacteria while promoting overall skin clarity. It reduces redness and works to prevent further breakouts without the use of harsh acids or peroxide.
Meanwhile, the Spot Cleanser, retailing at £12.99, is a moisturising formula that eliminates dead skin cells, breaks down surplus oil, thoroughly purifies the skin, and reduces the visibility of pores and blackheads – all whilst safeguarding the skin barrier.
Pimple patches have surged in popularity amongst Gen-Z beauty enthusiasts, and The Breakout Hack’s Multi-Size Pimple Patches, £12.99, sell one every minute worldwide. The multi-sized hydrocolloid patches are formulated to tackle blemishes of various shapes and sizes, discourage spot-picking, and shield from external aggressors.

Another user shared their experience of using The Breakout Hack’s products (Image: The Breakout Hack)
The patches assist in absorbing pus and diminishing redness overnight, whilst niacinamide and ascorbic acid work to reduce the visibility of post-acne pigmentation.
Additionally, The Inkey List offers their Hydrocolloid Invisible Pimple Patches, which feature a low concentration of salicylic acid at 0.4% and are clinically proven to reduce breakouts within four hours whilst remaining virtually invisible on all skin tones. A pack of 22 patches costs £9 at LookFantastic.
Despite being newly launched in the UK, The Breakout Hack has already amassed numerous glowing reviews on the Boots website. The £21.99 Rebound Barrier Support Serum has achieved a near-perfect 4.8 star rating from over 600 reviews.
One reviewer commented: “I’m onto my third bottle, it’s a fave. I use it to calm my skin down when it is inflamed or irritated, or when I want something gentle and nourishing.”
Another customer enthused: “I love this serum so much. I use it AM and PM as a base for other skincare, and it’s been fantastic for my rosacea – my skin feels hydrated and plump after using.”
Discussing the pimple patches, a satisfied buyer commented: “I love that they come in different sizes so I can cover small spots or larger breakouts. They stick well overnight and really help reduce redness and swelling by the next morning.”
Although one remarked: “Their certainly not a magical cure and it’s you have a lot of spots you go through them very quickly.”

The Breakout Hack Rebound Barrier Support Serum (Image: The Breakout Hack )
Among the latest additions to The Breakout Hack range is the Rebound Skin Milk Activated Cica Toner, priced at £14.99. Enriched with calming cica, this creamy essence should be gently pressed into the skin following cleansing and prior to applying serum, moisturiser or SPF, helping to reduce redness, ease irritation and fortify the skin’s protective barrier.
This makes it particularly suitable for individuals dealing with breakouts, rosacea or similar skin concerns.
One buyer praised the toner, stating: “I have very acne prone skin and terrible hormonal acne that’s very sensitive to a lot of moisturising products, but this is so light and sinks in immediately and makes my skin feel so plumped and hydrated! ! And even better, it doesn’t break me out! Will be repurchasing.”
Another declared: “this stuff is honestly amazing, forever getting compliments on how amazing my skin is looking, I’m about 6 months into using this and I won’t stop.”
Anyone who has grappled with blemish-prone skin during their formative years will understand the frustration, embarrassment and desperation it can cause. I spent more than ten years seeking a solution, and The Breakout Hack is precisely the brand I yearned for during my teenage years.
Had it been available back then, I’m certain my relationship with my skin would have been different.
The Breakout Hack is now accessible in selected Boots stores across the country and online.
Fashion
Amazon ugg look-a-likes are just £39.99

The winter months are here for just a little while longer, and if there’s one thing we all reach for when the temperature drops, it’s a pair of cosy boots. Uggs are arguably one of the best comfy, warm winter staples. The only catch? They come with a price tag of around £100 (sometimes even higher), so they’re definitely more of an investment than an impulse buy.
But if you’re after that same laid-back, snuggly vibe without the triple-digit spend, Amazon shoppers think they’ve found a very good alternative. There’s a pair that customers have praised for looking like the Australian boot brand but for a cut of the price, reports Wales Online.
Designed to keep feet toasty while still being easy to style, these boots are versatile enough to wear with everything from leggings and chunky knits to jeans and even skirts. They come in three classic shades: black, beige and grey. The black and beige proved especially popular and have sold very quickly, with only limited sizes left, but the grey is still available in sizes 4 through to 9.
One impressed shopper shared: “Real great quality for the price. You have the choice to tie a bow to them and make them look even cuter. Genuinely wouldn’t notice the different in quality, style and warmth than an Ugg.”
According to Amazon, the boots are made from genuine suede, while the inside is lined with plush faux fur to keep feet extra snug. Visually, they tick all the right boxes too, the shape, suede exterior and cosy lining closely resemble the Ugg Classic Mini Boots. Both pairs are also available in similar shades of grey. The big difference? While the Ugg’s retail for £145 on the Schuh website at the time of writing, the Amazon boots come in at just £39.99 — that’s over £100 cheaper.
They’re practical as well as cosy. The boots are said to have a slip-resistant sole designed to provide dependable grip on wet pavements or light snow, while still being sturdy enough for everyday wear. Underfoot, there’s a 5mm memory foam insole for added cushioning, which should make them comfortable for day-to-day use. As one customer said: “These boots are really lovely, comfortable and worth every penny.”
Another added: “Warm and comfortable. Will definitely order more.”
That said, they might not be the best choice for serious mileage. Some shoppers noted they’re not ideal for long walks. One reviewer explained: “Nice boots. Warm. Looks good. Comfortable to wear to work all day. Not for long hours of walking, though. I wore them on a weekend away, and not really suitable. Good price. Would recommend.”
As a sweet finishing touch, the boots also come with a cute ribbon detail that you can tie into a bow for a softer look or remove entirely if you prefer to keep things simple. It’s a small extra that adds a bit of personality.
Fashion
Roman slashes price of ‘best coat ever’ that ‘keeps you dry’

Chilly days are still ahead, which is why it’s important to have a warm coat in the wardrobe. Being warm doesn’t mean shoppers have to compromise on style – and Roman has reduced the price of a coat that is being described as looking ‘really stylish’.
Roman’s Charcoal Hooded Quilted Coat is currently down to £88, down from £99. It comes in three colours – charcoal, midnight blue and black, all for the discounted price.
The timeless puffer style means it will last shoppers for years without going out of style, while amping up the warmth thanks to a quilted fabric lining. The duvet style ensures extra cosiness, while the funnel neck is a chic addition to the overall look.
Even better, the coat is machine washable, so customers don’t have to worry about going to the dry cleaners. A hood finishes the look, keeping the wind and rain at bay. It comes in sizes 10 through to 20, and Roman says it comes in at approximately 107cm in length.
For an alternative option, New Look has the Black Faux Fur Hood Longline Puffer Coat for £40, down from £74.99. Three colourways are currently on sale – cream, khaki and black – and the faux fur trim on the hood adds a bit of glamour.
For a shorter option, Next is selling the Lightweight Quilted Jacket for £50. A lighter style, this coat is suitable for transitional dressing, and comes in four colours: chocolate brown, black, brown check and burgundy red.
Shoppers have raved about the Roman’s Charcoal Hooded Quilted Coat, which has clocked up an impressive 4.9 stars out of five. One five-star reviewer said: “Best coat ever, warm and cosy, amazing hood and keeps you dry in the pouring rain. Worth the money and it looks really stylish too.”
A second added: “Love it so much. The colour, style and fit are perfect. Had lots of compliments.” While a third chimed in: “Love the coat very warm and true to size, the colour is beautiful, very happy customer.”
However, some customers had a few notes to share about the coat. “Pleased with this coat, it fits nicely with room for a jumper underneath. I think the hood is ok but would have liked the edge to look more ‘finished’ with perhaps some fur?” said one.
Another wrote in their review: “Lovely warm snug coat. Great length and love the colour. I would say to order a smaller size as the first one I ordered was too big. I’m normally a size 14 dress etc but the size 12 was too big. The size 10 fits perfect.”
Fashion
Uniqlo’s ‘best ever trousers’ are under £35

A good pair of trousers is a wardrobe staple everyone needs and a key element of any outfit. Finding a pair that’s both comfortable and stylish can be a challenge, but we’ve spotted a design that ticks both boxes for less than £35 at Uniqlo. The Japanese brand is well known for its affordable and versatile staples, which are comfortable and easy to mix and match. These barrel leg trousers cost £34.90 and are great for making a subtle statement
The trousers have a mid-rise waist and a casual fit, with a wide barrel leg that provides space and movement. They come in black, off white, dark grey and dark brown, all versatile shades that can be incorporated into any wardrobe, and are made from a cotton-blend jersey that keeps them cool and crisp, with a touch of elastane for extra comfort.
Even though the trousers have a more casual cut, which makes them ideal for everyday wear, they can be dressed up for the office with the right elements and accessories.
Sizes range from XXS to XXL, with regular and long options, but as they are unisex, it might be worth checking the measurements before ordering. While the unisex aspect might be a bonus for people who like to share clothes with their partners, it could also be seen as a drawback as clothes fit differently on male and female bodies.
Uniqlo customers are loving their trousers, with one saying: “Fantastic all rounder. Can wear for work or play, make smart or casual. The fabric is lightweight but holds its shape well and the colour is sharp.”
Another said: “Bought them as a present for my boyfriend, he loves them, he finds them really comfortable. I now want to also buy them for me.”
One shopper praised the way the trousers fit, saying: “I usually struggle to find fitting trousers due to my body being more wide at the bottom, but these barrel trousers were a game changer! even if it looks like it’s gonna make you look wider, not at all. It makes your figure look even better and they adapt well to any body type without being tight.”
Another confirmed they work on shorter frames, saying: “I had seen these cropping up over socials but was reluctant to try them myself due to being a short gal! I wish I had taken the plunge sooner! I tried them in store and the fit is just perfect, in every way. I wore them to work and had so many compliments (I left the office, walking on air that day!)”
A third shopper called them the “best trousers ever”, writing: ” It just fits and shapes your body so well, it’s incredible. A little larger for S size, but still fine. The material is very reliable, and the length is just long enough for average tall. However, there are longer versions as well. I can’t get over the coolness of its shape!”
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