The term “microbiome” comes up a lot in the beauty and wellness industries these days, but how much do you really know about yours? The microbiome is a busy community of microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses within the human body, with a large part to play in keeping it running smoothly. This intricate ecosystem is especially influential in your gut, with an impact stretching all the way to your skin.
Understanding the microbiome
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Friends of YLW - Meet Francesca, Kelly & Hannah
At You're Looking Well, we believe that wellness goes beyond routine—it’s about feeling strong, supported, and empowered in every aspect of life. That’s why we sat down with three incredible members of The Sisterhood, a powerhouse community of over 150 extraordinary women, from elite athletes to pioneering founders, who are redefining what it means to push limits. Together, they’ve raised over £1,000,000 for charity through daring challenges—ultra-relays, triathlons, paddleboarding, and dragon boating—all while lifting each other up and inspiring others along the way. Their mission is simple yet powerful: women helping women. In our conversation, we talked about their approach to wellness, the daily rituals that keep them feeling their best, and how You're Looking Well fits into their demanding lifestyles. From supporting recovery and resilience with the Day & Night Pills to strengthening skin health with the Day & Night Creams, they shared how small but consistent self-care moments help fuel their biggest ambitions. This process brings our body out of homeostasis (the body’s natural balanced state), which can impact every aspect of your health and wellbeing. Meet Francesca, Kelly & Hannah... Francesca James is the founder of Ideas Forums, the force behind leading UK entrepreneurial events like the Great British Entrepreneur Awards, UK StartUp Awards, and Ideas Fest. With a 100,000-strong community and 10,000+ award applicants annually, she champions fast-growth businesses and is one of the UK’s most connected voices in entrepreneurship. Kelly Newton is the CEO and Co-Founder of NIXI Body, award-winning absorbent underwear supporting women through menstruation, motherhood, and menopause. After facing endometriosis and bladder leaks, she created discreet, comfortable alternatives—now trusted by thousands and named Underwear of the Year four times by Women’s Running Magazine. Hannah Murray moved to Marbella in 2003 after years of travel—and never left. Now a presenter at Talk Radio Europe, she’s interviewed the likes of Eva Longoria and Mary Berry, hosts TRE in the Afternoon and The Book Show, appears on Good Morning Spain, and co-hosts the Marbella with Him & Her podcast with her husband PJ Lopez. Francesca James Francesca James is the founder of Ideas Forums, the force behind some of the UK’s leading entrepreneurial events, including the Great British Entrepreneur Awards (dubbed “the Grammys of Entrepreneurship” by Steven Bartlett), the UK StartUp Awards, and Ideas Fest – the “Glastonbury for entrepreneurs.” With a community of over 100,000 and 10,000+ annual award applicants, Francesca champions fast-growth businesses and start-ups across the UK. Known for her passion for storytelling, community-building, and lifting others up, she’s one of the UK’s most connected voices in entrepreneurship. How does YLW help to support you in your day to day life? "YLW couldn’t have landed in my life at a better time. I’ve been on a bit of a health and wellness journey this year, and what I love about the products is the simplicity – a day pill and cream, a night pill and cream. I’ve never been one for complicated routines or shelves of products. Since I started, I’ve noticed I’m sleeping better, I’ve stopped doom scrolling late at night, and my skin is brighter and healthier. But the biggest impact? People keep saying, “you’re looking well”, and I really feel it too.." What does success look like for you? "For me, success is about building something that truly matters, something that lifts others up. Whether that’s creating a moment on stage where a founder feels seen and celebrated, or building a platform that gives visibility to businesses on the rise, it’s those human moments of impact that make me feel the most fulfilled." How do you prioritise carving out time for self care each day, considering the unique challenges that women often face in balancing various responsibilities? "It’s about boundaries. As women, we’re often conditioned to be everything to everyone, but I’ve realised I’m better in all areas of life when I make space for myself too. Whether that’s stepping away for a walk, a proper night’s sleep, or simply saying “no” when something doesn’t serve me, self-care isn’t a luxury, it’s essential." What are three things that make you feel empowered? "Hearing other women share honestly about both the highs and the hard bit, vulnerability is power. Creating opportunities and spaces that champion others. Feeling strong in my body and mind: sleep, exercise, water, repeat!" Lastly, can you share a fun fact about yourself or something people wouldn't expect with us? "In my late teens and early twenties, I spent two years working in what I later realised was a massive pyramid scheme, door-knocking in the South Wales valleys on 100% commission until 9pm every night. I completely bought into the dream they were selling, and against all odds, I was actually great at it. I became the top UK salesperson, got flown to Greece and Italy to speak on stages about sales techniques, which is hilarious given I had no idea what I was doing, and was not meant for the stage; used to go bright red if someone said hello to me. Looking back, it was one of the most formative chapters of my life. I met the friendliest people (especially the further up the valleys you went, I once got driven around in the back of an ice cream van by a man who wanted to sign up his whole family). It taught me resilience, how to handle rejection, how to connect with people, and, oddly enough, probably paved the way for everything I’ve done since." Kelly Newton Kelly Newton is the CEO and Co-Founder of NIXI Body, award-winning absorbent underwear designed to support women through menstruation, motherhood, and menopause. After struggling with endometriosis and experiencing bladder leaks following a hysterectomy, she set out to create leak-proof knickers that were both discreet and comfortable—without the bulk of traditional options. Today, NIXI Body is trusted by thousands and has been named Underwear of the Year four times by Women’s Running Magazine. What's your go to wellness routine and how does YLW help to support you in your day to day life? "I start the day with some breathing exercises to regulate any feelings of anxiety I may have. I also stretch out my body, especially my lower back. Twice a week I have an online workout with my PT which I absolutely love. Of course, being realistic, some weeks I don’t have time to do any of this, but the trick is to not beat yourself up about it! I drink my bulletproof coffee and take my YLW day pill. Probiotics and collagen. I try to drink at least 2 litres of water each day and when I’m working from home I try to get outside for at least half an hour. Being post menopausal, I have really struggled with sleep but since I have taken the night pill, I definitely have less broken sleep and if I do wake up, I can tend to get back to sleep a lot easier. I also feel like I have had less anxiety since taking them! YLW came very highly recommended by lots of my sisterhood group, so I was really keen to try them!" What does success look like for you? "Success for me isn’t about money or material possessions, it’s about having time to spend with loved ones. A successful day for me is when I’ve had fun, laughed, got some fresh air and managed to squeeze some work in!" How do you prioritise carving out time for self care each day, considering the unique challenges that women often face in balancing various responsibilities? "I don’t have great boundaries, I would work all the hours of the day if my husband didn’t stop me but my non-negotiables have always been supplements and probiotics. Some weeks I forget to put my HRT patch on but I never forget to take my supplements!" What are three things that make you feel empowered? "My family, especially my husband, sons and my mum who are all so proud of me. My groups of girlfriends, some who have been friends for almost 40 years. They are all so supportive of what I do and I love sharing my success with them. Going to India with the Sisterhood was without doubt one of the most empowering experiences of my life. Having to drive the wrong way down a motorway and cut across 6 lanes of traffic was a do or die moment that has made me realise how cool headed I can be in a difficult situation." Lastly, can you share a fun fact about yourself or something people wouldn't expect with us? "I used to ring the church bells when I was at school for money. We used to get £5 a wedding!" Hannah Murray Hannah Murray caught the travel bug early, living and working across Europe before embarking on an 18-month solo trip through Australia, New Zealand, and Thailand by the age of 20. In 2003, she moved to Marbella—and never left. She began her career at Talk Radio Europe as a producer, landing interviews with stars like Ricky Gervais, Alan Carr, and Heston Blumenthal. Now a seasoned presenter, she hosts TRE in the Afternoon and The Book Show, having interviewed the likes of Eva Longoria, Mary Berry, and Lee Child. Hannah is also a regular contributor to Good Morning Spain and co-hosts the Marbella with Him & Her podcast with her husband PJ Lopez, sharing local insights and events with listeners around the world. What's your go to wellness routine and how does YLW help to support you in your day to day life? "I didn't really get into a regular skin care routine until I turned 40, and I know I don't drink enough water! I eat relatively well though and try to do regular exercise classes - a mixture of spinning, pilates, zumba and body combat. I really love the YLW creams! The lightness of the day cream feels great on my face in the morning, setting me up for the day, and the night cream is definitely more nourishing, great for bedtime. I completely get why the products are called You're Looking Well, as that's literally what people say to you!!" What does success look like for you? "This is a tricky one, as I think most people would liken success to being wealthy. Funnily enough, I interviewed someone this week who said that you're successful if you have found your purpose in life. I'm definitely fulfilled interviewing interesting people, and take pride in coming up with questions that people haven't had before. Guest often say "What a great question", which is nice. I'm also blessed to do a podcast with my husband. We have a similar sense of humour and we're on the same wavelength about most things, which is a blessing." How do you prioritise carving out time for self care each day, considering the unique challenges that women often face in balancing various responsibilities? "It's definitely not easy with all the different things I'm doing...and I don't even have children. I honestly don't know how some women do it! I have to really think about my priorities each day and somehow make it all work! I always do my nightly skin care routine, and take my tablets. But need to be better with my water intake!" What are three things that make you feel empowered? "The support and encouragement of my husband, my father, and my friends is vital. I'm very blessed with the people I have around me. I'm definitely empowered by The Sisterhood too. It's fantastic having such a large group of women all rooting for each other, as it doesn't always happen like that! It really is a great bunch of women." Lastly, can you share a fun fact about yourself or something people wouldn't expect with us? "I'm part of an amateur dramatics group, and a couple of years ago I played one of the leading ladies in 'Calendar Girls'. We actually made a calendar for charity, and I framed the picture of me (Miss October) for my husband for our anniversary. I'm pruning the flowers, which tastefully cover up my chest!"
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Homemade Granola
Crunchy, naturally sweet, and packed with goodness—our latest recipe is a must-try. Free from refined sugar, this granola makes the perfect yoghurt topper or a delicious snack straight from the jar. Wholesome, simple, and seriously moreish! Ingredients 250g oats 50g nuts / seeds 1 egg white 3 tbsp coconut oil 3 tbsp maple syrup / agave Method - Preheat the oven to 160 degrees Celsius- Add all dry ingredients in a bowl and give them a good mix around- Whisk the egg white until frothy, mix into the dry ingredients with the maple syrup and coconut oil- Tip the oaty mixture onto a baking tray and pop in the oven for 40mins, stirring halfway through and adding an extra drizzle of maple syrup / agave if you please- Remove from the oven once golden and crispy, leave to cool and enjoy!
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Friends of YLW - Meet Pauline, Louise & Nikki
At You're Looking Well, wellness is more than a routine—it’s about strength, support, and empowerment. We spoke with three inspiring members of The Sisterhood, a community of 150+ trailblazing women, from elite athletes to founders, redefining limits. Together, they’ve raised over £1M for charity through ultra-relays, triathlons, and more—all while uplifting and inspiring others. Their mission? Women helping women.They shared their approach to wellness, daily rituals, and how You're Looking Well supports their demanding lifestyles. Meet Pauline, Louise and Nikki... Pauline Paterson, Co-founder of Dr.PAWPAW, is a beauty industry leader with 25+ years of experience. A UK Export Champion and Aphrodite Award winner, she drives the brand’s global success and innovation across 20 countries. Louise Hill, Co-founder & CEO of GoHenry, champions financial education in schools and mentors startups at Oxford’s Creative Destruction Lab, supporting female founders to drive leadership change. Nikki - Lady B - Baroness Brougham & Vaux, launched a site to make tech more accessible for women, becoming the BBC’s Gadget Girl and a tech columnist. Passionate about women in tech, she now hosts a podcast inspiring female founders. Pauline Paterson Pauline Paterson, Co-founder of Dr.PAWPAW, is a beauty industry leader with 25+ years of experience. Her award-winning, sustainable brand spans 20 countries, earning her accolades like the 2021 Aphrodite Award. A UK Export Champion and advocate for women in business, she continues to drive Dr.PAWPAW’s innovation and global success. What's your go to wellness routine and how does YLW help to support you in your day to day life? "For me, staying active is definitely key! I try to fit in as much exercise as possible throughout the week, whether it’s walking my dog, Luna, or hopping on the Peloton. Hydration is another non-negotiable—I truly believe in the power of drinking plenty of water. There’s a lot to be said about staying hydrated and eating healthy. When it comes to skin and hair, using lotions and potions is great, but real nourishment starts from within. If your body isn’t getting the right nutrients, it’s much harder to maintain healthy, glowing skin and strong hair. As I am currently perimenopausal, a mum of two, and running my own business, my life is incredibly hectic and busy—so I need all the energy I can get. Lately, I’ve been experiencing broken sleep and intense night sweats, waking up drenched and struggling to regulate my temperature, which has been seriously disrupting my rest. Since taking the YLW Day Pill, I feel more motivated in the morning and have more energy to get things done. I’ve noticed that I don’t clock-watch as much anymore—whereas before, I’d constantly be thinking, When am I going to get a break? Now, the day seems to fly by, and I feel energised throughout. With the Night Pill, I’ve had the deepest sleep I’ve experienced in years. It’s definitely helping me relax, and I don’t feel as hot and cold throughout the night. I’m waking up feeling more rejuvenated, and I’ve actually been waking up before my alarm—maybe only by 10–15 minutes, but naturally, rather than dreading another hour of sleep. It’s made a real difference in improving my sleep quality and how I feel when I wake up." What does success look like for you? "For me, success is all about happiness. If I’m leading a happy life, giving my children a happy life, and helping my husband feel happy, and if my team at work is happy in the workplace and fulfilled in achieving their goals, then that is what I consider true success. I believe success is best measured by the happiness of the people around you—how content they are with their lives and what they are achieving. I would say these have been my milestones: Building a family – It does bring its hardships, but it also brings so much joy. Starting the business – Maintaining strong work ethics has always been important to me. In the past, I’ve worked with awful, bullying managers and always swore I would never treat people that way or hire anyone who would. Creating a safe, respectful workplace where my team feels heard has been a massive achievement for me and for them. Winning one of The Sunday Times’ Best Places to Work – This award truly encompasses everything we’ve tried to create. Over the years, we’ve watched our team members buy homes, start families, and achieve personal successes, and that, in turn, enriches my life. Seeing others succeed is just as fulfilling as achieving my own goals." How do you prioritise carving out time for self care each day, considering the unique challenges that women often face in balancing various responsibilities? "I have to admit, I don’t always succeed at this every day—I try, but sometimes life gets in the way. For me, self-care often starts in the morning when I can wake up at 5:40am, hop on my Peloton, and squeeze in a 20- or 30-minute workout. It releases endorphins, boosts my mood, and helps me start the day on a positive note. Other times, self-care is as simple as my skincare routine. At the end of the day, washing off my makeup and the stresses of the day feels like a reset. Applying a beautiful serum, a nourishing eye cream, and beautiful scented creams—or even doing a bit of gua sha—helps me unwind. I try to use products I truly love, incorporating small rituals and tools that make me feel good and help me relax, even on the busiest of days." What are three things that make you feel empowered? "I’m very fortunate to be part of three amazing women’s networking groups that truly empower me. Buy Women Built – This incredible community is made up of female-founded product brands that constantly uplift and inspire each other. We actively support one another by purchasing each other’s products—whether it’s peanut butter, underwear, or clothing. I make a conscious effort to empower women by choosing women-led brands, and even my children are now aware of who owns the products we use daily, from our peanut butter and cauliflower rice to the kitchen spray we clean with. EY Winning Women – Another phenomenal group of female entrepreneurs from all walks of life. It’s a global community spanning industries like tech, recruitment, fashion, and beauty, with members from South Africa, America, Europe, and the Middle East. It’s incredibly empowering to see so many women from diverse backgrounds coming together to inspire and support one another. The Sisterhood – My God, what could be more empowering than getting on a rickshaw and driving across India to raise money—not just to change lives, but to save the lives of girls and women? This is, without a doubt, one of the most empowering experiences I’ve been a part of. An inspiring group of women that I’m just absolutely looking forward to getting on this adventure with." Lastly, can you share a fun fact about yourself or something people wouldn't expect with us? "I came to London at 21 after winning a hairdressing competition that gave me the chance to work here for two weeks. That was 24 years ago—and I never left! I met Johnny, had my wonderful kids, and started Dr.PAWPAW… all because of that one opportunity!" Louise Hill Louise Hill, Co-founder & CEO of GoHenry, is a passionate advocate for financial education, working to make it compulsory in schools. She mentors startups through Oxford University’s Creative Destruction Lab and supports female founders to drive cultural change in leadership. What's your go to wellness routine and how does YLW help to support you in your day to day life? "My regime is a bit haphazard! When I’m at home I eat organic food and cook from scratch but when away for work or attending evening events that can become more challenging! Yoga helps keep me sane - Hatha yoga in particular, and I practice at home and away, plus have a private session every Monday morning blocked in my calendar - no meetings are allowed to disrupt that. I’ve been on HRT for the past 3 years - that made a huge difference to sleep patterns and migraines that had developed as I went through perimenopause. I was fairly sceptical of YLW at first but keen to see if it made a difference. I’ve been amazed at the impact in just the first few weeks. I sleep better and I have more energy. I’ve been peering in the mirror, asking myself if my skin looks better and not been convinced, but at least 5 different people have told me I’m looking great or amazing or really well in the past couple of weeks - without any clue that I’ve been taking YLW - so it has clearly made a difference that others can see." What does success look like for you? "Success for me - feeling that I’ve made a difference. That can be at home with family or at work, with supporting friends or delivering great business results." How do you prioritise carving out time for self care each day, considering the unique challenges that women often face in balancing various responsibilities? "It’s always a juggle, particularly for parents and I’m no different! Another female CEO gave me some advice a few years ago. She told me to stop calling it “me time” because that’s too easily set aside for another priority. She pointed out that nobody wants to work for a burnt out, stressed leader. It’s key to make sure that you are on top form so that you are the best leader you can be. She was so right - and I’ve carved out time for that ever since." What are three things that make you feel empowered? "Customers telling me that GoHenry taught their child to save and they’ve started saving too - for the first time in their life. That’s what makes me realise we’re doing something that matters. Looking at the great team that we’ve built who all believe in what we’re doing. People from all parts of the world, every race, colour and creed. I love to see our mission pulling such a diverse group together around one purpose. Great shoes!" Lastly, can you share a fun fact about yourself or something people wouldn't expect with us? "I was a judge in The Apprentice this year." Nikki - Lady B - Baroness Brougham & Vaux With a background in tech and finance, Nikki - Lady B - Baroness Brougham & Vaux, launched a site to make gadgets more accessible for women—leading to roles as the BBC’s Gadget Girl, a tech columnist, and event host. The industry has come a long way, and she’s passionate about supporting more women in tech. Her latest venture is a podcast dedicated to inspiring and guiding female founders on their business journeys. What's your go to wellness routine and how does YLW help to support you in your day to day life? "The main parts of my routine are getting up early and always starting my day with a lovely long walk along the river, it's great to start the day immersed in nature and I just love being by water! I have also done reformer pilates for 15 years since having kids and I weight train 3 times a week. During the summer I swim every day. It’s also really important to me to eat well, although I can not live without crisps!!! The YLW Night Pill for me is an absolute godsend!! The best part for me as I was having broken sleep is the fact that if I do now wake up in the night, I find it so much easier to get back to sleep quickly." What does success look like for you? "Success to me is directly linked to happiness and my family’s well being. The greatest achievement for me is having two beautiful, kind, happy kids!! Seeing them thrive in their lives gives me a huge amount of fulfilment. I also like doing charity work, the 1000km Tuk Tuk ride across India being my latest adventure, we raised £150k for women and girls charities in India!" How do you prioritise carving out time for self care each day, considering the unique challenges that women often face in balancing various responsibilities? "I block out my diary every week for all my exercise commitments and I make sure I stick to them! No excuses!!" What are three things that make you feel empowered? "Being healthy fit and strong Being spiritual - meditation, astrology and tarot Being by the sea / in nature" Lastly, can you share a fun fact about yourself or something people wouldn't expect with us? "My family, Henry Brougham(grt grt.. grandfather) founded Cannes in the South of France in the 1800’s. There is a statue of him, Lord Brougham in the centre of Cannes in honour of this. - https://iconicriviera.com/cannes-history-celebrity-founder/."
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