Best Supplements for Youthful Skin: Top Picks for Radiance and Firmness

 *This is a collaborative post 

Introduction

What if the secret to firmer, smoother skin isn’t just in your skincare routine, but in how you support your body from within? Collagen, which is one of the most crucial proteins in the body, may be the answer.

Collagen is a vital protein that keeps skin firm, elastic, and hydrated. Fine lines and loss of firmness are more pronounced as the natural production of collagen reduces with age.

This is why collagen supplements have become the focus of interest as a method of assisting in supporting skin health internally. With options ranging from multi-ingredient blends to plant-based formulas and hydrolyzed collagen peptides, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This guide explores four popular supplements to help you decide what best suits your goals.

What is Collagen and How Does It Enhance Skin Health?

Collagen is the foundation that keeps skin firm, smooth, and resilient. Being the most abundant protein in the body, it gives strength to skin, bones, and connective tissue as well as contributes to the maintenance of hydration and elasticity. Nevertheless, the natural decrease in collagen level begins in our 20s, and aspects such as sun exposure, pollution, and stress may accelerate the appearance of aging.

A 2023 review in Nutrients found that oral hydrolyzed collagen improved skin hydration and elasticity. Type I collagen maintains firmness and structure, Type III collagen enhances flexibility and bounce, and Type II is mostly useful in maintaining the health of joints and cartilages.

On this basis, we will discuss the best collagen supplements that are presently in the limelight.

Super Derm Complex

Super Derm Complex is a comprehensive skin health formula designed to go beyond basic collagen support. Most Super Derm Complex Review articles note that the formula includes five types of collagen from multiple sources to support overall structural health.

Flawless Bloom Super Derm Complex stands out for its multi-collagen approach, offering broader support for skin, hair, nails, and connective tissue in one streamlined formula.

Evidence published in Nutrients indicates that the use of collagen supplements enhances the skin elasticity and moisture. It contains several sources of collagen; hence, it provides long-term support that is streamlined.

Super Derm Complex Review: 5 Types of Collagen for Beauty & Joint Support! (WATCH NOW)

Phyto Collagen Complex

Phyto Collagen Complex is a plant-based substitute to conventional sources of collagen of animal origin. As opposed to having collagen in it, this formula consists of botanical extracts and nutrients that activate collagen production by the body.

Numerous phyto collagen complex reviews focus on its popularity among vegans and those who want to have a cruelty-free choice. The formula contains antioxidants and collagen-supportive components that enhance texture and hydration. Research on plant-based collagen alternatives has shown improvements in skin elasticity and wrinkle appearance over several weeks of consistent use.

But the question is does phyto collagen complex work? Research suggests consistent use supports measurable skin benefits.

BUBS Natural Collagen Peptides.

BUBS Naturals Collagen Peptides has been a popular product due to its simplicity and clean ingredients. This is a powder-based supplement with hydrolyzed Type I and III collagen that are derived from bovine sources. Across more than one bubs collagen review, users mention its clean formulation and support for skin and joints.

Positive bubs naturals collagen protein reviews often highlight its high bioavailability. Recent studies indicate that hydrolyzed collagen enhances skin hydration and skin elasticity. Type I collagen helps to sustain firmness, while Type III collagen enhances elasticity. Together, they offer skin and joint support in one versatile, easy-to-mix powder.

The Ultimate Guide to Reading A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES (No Spoilers)

If like me you’ve been hovering on the edge of Bookstagram wondering whether to dive into that fantasy romance series everyone is obsessing over — this is your sign. I had been putting off the series for far too long and regret not diving in sooner.

This is your ultimate, spoiler-free guide to reading the A Court of Thorns and Roses series, including the correct reading order, characters and courts, creatures of Prythian, how the books connect to other Sarah J. Maas series, and what’s next.

Whether you’re a first-time reader like I was or are planning a re-read, here’s everything you need to know before entering Prythian.

What Is ACOTAR?

ACOTAR stands for A Court of Thorns and Roses, the bestselling fantasy romance series by Sarah J. Maas.

The series blends:

• High fantasy
• Romance
• Political intrigue
• Found family
• Strong character development
• Epic world-building

It’s often described as Beauty and the Beast meets fae politics meets slow-burn romance — but that barely scratches the surface.

About the Author: Sarah J. Maas

Sarah J. Maas is one of the most successful fantasy authors of the modern era. She is also the author of two other series Thrones of Glass and Crescent City. 

Her books are known for:

• Expansive fantasy worlds
• Morally complex characters
• Slow-burn romance arcs
• Powerful female leads
• Interconnected universes

ACOTAR is often considered her most accessible entry point — especially for readers that are new to fantasy romance.

The Correct Reading Order for ACOTAR

If you’re wondering how to read ACOTAR in order, here’s the official publication order (which is also the correct reading order):

• A Court of Thorns and Roses
• A Court of Mist and Fury
• A Court of Wings and Ruin
• A Court of Frost and Starlight
• A Court of Silver Flames

Tip: Do not skip A Court of Frost and Starlight. While shorter, it bridges major character developments and sets up the fifth book. 

The World of Prythian: Courts & Politics (Spoiler-Free)

ACOTAR takes place in Prythian, a magical land divided into powerful fae courts. Each court has its own culture, magic, and ruling High Lord.

The seven main courts include:

Spring Court – Beauty, renewal, growth

Night Court – Mystery, power, hidden strength

Summer Court – Water, warmth, trade

Autumn Court – Fire, sharp politics

Winter Court – Ice, endurance

Day Court – Knowledge, light

Dawn Court – Healing, innovation

The politics between courts play a massive role in the overarching plot — especially as the series evolves beyond its fairy-tale beginnings.

Main Characters (Without Spoilers)

While the cast expands significantly, the series centers around:

• A fiercely determined human-turned-fae heroine
• A powerful High Lord with complex motivations
• A tight-knit inner circle built on loyalty and found family
• Strong female friendships
• Characters dealing with trauma, healing, and identity

One of ACOTAR’s biggest strengths is character growth. The emotional arcs are just as important as the battles. Check out this list of  ACOTAR's characters. 

UK Gambling in 2026: A Market Adjusting to Rules, Technology, and Public Expectations

 *This is a collaborative post 

The UK gambling industry is going through a time of change, not growth. After years of improving the law and monitoring people's behaviour, the market is starting to settle down into a more steady rhythm. There are no aggressive advertising or record-breaking user growth. There are small shifts in how people talk about and watch entertainment.

This change wasn't an accident. It shows a mix of regulatory pressure, changing payment technology, and a player base that is becoming more cautious and values openness over showiness.

Regulations in the New Era

The regulatory framework in the UK remains one of the strictest globally. And the UK Gambling Commission plays a central role in shaping the behaviour. Now, operators face tighter expectations around player protection and clear communication of risks.

• Recent regulatory guidance focus on:
• earlier identification of risky play patterns;
• clearer separation between entertainment and financial expectation;
• stronger internal controls on product presentation;
• strict protection of minors (age and content restrictions).

For the industry, these changes mean fewer headline-grabbing promotions and a stronger emphasis on the compliance-led design.

Operators Shifting Strategy, Not Presence

Major operators such as Bet365, Paddy Power, and 888casino enjoy firm positions in the market. Nevertheless, their strategies have visibly evolved. Instead of competing on volume or visual intensity, many have moved toward stability and retention.

Industry observers note several shared trends among leading brands:

• simpler interfaces with reduced visual pressure;
• fewer time-limited incentives;
• clearer information around odds, jackpots, and withdrawal processes.

This shift reflects a broader understanding that long-term sustainability now matters more than short-term engagement spikes.

Payment Methods Reflect a More Cautious Market

In 2026, how people pay also tells a story of moderation. Digital wallets and instant payment systems are still popular for small purchases, but bigger withdrawals and winnings are going through more traditional channels more and more.

The most common ways to do things on licensed UK platforms are:

• bank transfers for higher-value withdrawals;
• regulated e-wallets for smaller, routine payments;
• delayed processing for large sums to meet verification standards.

A Celebration of Pattern and Heritage Terrys x Linda Barker’s Spice Trail Collection

A new year brings a fresh start and that includes your home. If you are looking to change up your textiles around your home this year then Terry's have a wide range to choose from. New to 2026 is the Spice Trail Collection a collaboration between Terry's and Interior designer/tv presenter Linda Baker. This new range is inspired by the richness, detail and artistry of traditional Indian archived designs.  

Bidar

Featuring four bold patterns, the collection reimagines heritage motifs for contemporary living, celebrating expressive pattern, thoughtful colour and beautifully considered design. Each piece has been carefully crafted to bring depth, warmth and personality into modern homes.

Interior Designer and TV Presenter, Linda Barker, says, “This luxurious new collection draws inspiration from a vast Indian archive that I have reworked to create the sumptuous collection that we call The Spice Trail. Continuing my passion for elegant botanical patterns in the home, this is my newest collection and my most ambitious to date.”

Jaipur

Popular Thriller Book Tropes & What to Read If You Love Them

Thriller novels are addictive for a reason. Twists you never see coming, unreliable characters, dark secrets, and that just one more chapter feeling keep readers hooked until the final page.

If you’re a thriller fan, chances are you already have a favourite thriller book trope — even if you don’t realise it yet.

In this post, we’re breaking down the most popular thriller tropes and sharing book recommendations for each one, so you always know what to read next.

Why Thriller Tropes Matter

Tropes aren’t a bad thing. They tell readers what kind of tension, pacing, and emotional payoff to expect.

Whether you love domestic thrillers, psychological mind games, or fast-paced crime stories, knowing your favourite trope helps you find books you’ll actually enjoy.

1. The Unreliable Narrator

Why readers love it:

You can’t trust what you’re being told — and that makes every chapter unsettling.

This trope thrives on blurred reality, missing memories, and narrators who may be lying… even to themselves.

Perfect if you love:

• Psychological tension
• Shocking final twists
• “Wait… WHAT?” endings

What to read if you love this trope:

• The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
• Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
• The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
• The House Across The Lake by Riley Sager 

2. Domestic Thriller (Secrets Behind Closed Doors)

Why readers love it:

There’s something terrifying about danger hiding in everyday life — marriages, neighbours, and seemingly perfect homes.

Domestic thrillers are emotional, claustrophobic, and often deeply unsettling.

Perfect if you love:

• Marriage secrets
• Suburban suspense
• Twists involving family and trust

What to read if you love this trope:

• The Housemaid by Freida McFadden
• Behind Closed Doors by B.A. Paris
• The Wife Between Us by Greer Hendricks & Sarah Pekkanen
• Everyone Here Is Lieing by Shari Lapena

Elevate Your Look: A Guide to Winter Dressing for Every Occasion

*This is a collaborative post 

Winter is truly upon us, isn’t it? The days are shorter, the air is crisp, and while it’s tempting to hibernate in loungewear until March, the season is actually packed with reasons to dress up. From festive markets to office parties and crisp winter walks, this time of year offers so many opportunities to experiment with your style.

I always find that winter dressing requires a bit more thought than summer. It’s not just about throwing on a dress and sandals; it’s about layers, textures, and finding that sweet spot between staying warm and looking chic. If you’re feeling a bit uninspired by your cold-weather wardrobe, I’ve pulled together some ideas to help you elevate your look for all those upcoming winter events.

Mastering the Autumn-Winter Transition

The shift from autumn into deep winter can be tricky. You might have weddings or work events that fall in that awkward in-between stage where it’s cold, but not freezing. For autumn weddings, I love opting for rich, jewel tones - think emerald greens, deep burgundies, and navy blues. A long-sleeved midi dress in velvet or heavy silk is perfect. It keeps the chill off your arms but still looks incredibly elegant.

For work events or day trips, layering is your best friend. A classic trench coat over a chunky knit jumper and tailored trousers looks effortless. You can easily elevate this look with a pair of leather ankle boots and a statement scarf. It’s practical for wandering around a new city or heading to a client meeting, but it still feels pulled together.

The Magic of Christmas Markets

Is there anything more festive than a Christmas market? The smell of mulled wine, the twinkling lights, it’s magical. But let’s be honest, it’s usually freezing! The key here is practical warmth that doesn’t sacrifice style.

My go-to christmas market outfits always include a quality wool coat. Investing in a good coat is essential because, for a lot of winter, it is your outfit. Underneath, I’ll usually wear thermal leggings (a life hack for winter!) under jeans or a leather skirt with tights. Pair this with sturdy, flat boots because you’ll be on your feet a lot. Accessories are where you can have fun - a bobble hat in a bright colour or a faux fur scarf can add a lovely pop of personality to your look.

Party Season Sparkle

Winter brings a packed social calendar, and party outfits are where you can really let your hair down. Whether it’s the office Christmas party or drinks with friends, don’t be afraid of sequins. They are a festive staple for a reason!