Daily Star reporter Carly Hacon put Boots' 10 confidence-boosting beauty and wellbeing products to the test to see which little everyday treats could help her feel her best. The experiment follows new Boots research revealing that 49% of UK adults appear confident to others while privately struggling with self-doubt.
The same proportion admit to putting on a brave face at least once a week, while 83% say everyday pressures have affected their confidence and resilience. Even more sobering, 71% wish they felt more confident than they do today.
Perfume tops the list
Perfume was the top confidence-boosting category, with 32% of Brits saying they turn to fragrance to help them feel good. Hacon started with Prada Paradoxe Eau de Parfum, describing the floral amber fragrance as her little pre-leaving-the-house ritual.
Body care came a close second, with 30% of Brits saying products in this category help boost their confidence. Next up was Fussy Refillable Natural Deodorant in Coconut Milk, which Hacon found a cheerful addition to her morning routine.
Oral care and skincare
A quarter of Brits (25%) said oral care, including products that help improve their smile, plays a part in feeling more confident. Hacon tried the White Beaconsfield Strip and Paste Bundle and discovered that a fresh smile can make you feel a little more prepared to face the world.
Facial skincare was another popular choice, with 24% of Brits saying products such as moisturisers help them feel more confident. The Aveeno Calm + Restore Moisturising Lotion SPF50 became one of those quiet moments in the morning when Hacon actually stopped rushing and did something for herself.
Haircare, wellness and more
More than one in five Brits (21%) said haircare and styling products help them feel more confident. Hacon tested the Nature Spell Bond Repair Shampoo and Conditioner and discovered that a good hair day can make you feel like you could probably solve all your problems.
One in five Brits (20%) said vitamins, supplements and wellness products are among the things they turn to for a confidence boost. Next came PhD Diet Plant Powder in Belgian Chocolate, which Hacon mixed with her breakfast to make overnight oats. Boots also found that 50% of Brits say lack of sleep or low energy affects their confidence.
Hair removal products were chosen by 19% of Brits, with Hacon trying Veet Hair Removal Cream with Aloe Vera and Vitamin E. Hydration, energy and functional drinks were named by 17% of Brits, and the Habi Just Peachy Electrolyte Powder made hydration feel considerably more glamorous.
Eye and brow make-up made the list for 15% of Brits, with Hacon reaching for the Max Factor Masterpiece Nude Eyeshadow Palette in Rose Nudes. Complexion make-up was also chosen by 15% of Brits, and the Benefit Hoola Bronzer was her ultimate make-up bag essential.
What really stood out
After trying all ten products, Hacon discovered that a confidence boost doesn't have to mean a dramatic makeover or a complete life overhaul. Her standouts were the Prada perfume, which made her feel confident enough to walk into any room, the Nature Spell haircare duo for a good hair day, and Max Factor's eyeshadow palette, which reminded her that make-up should be fun rather than perfect.
Psychologist and broadcaster Dr Linda Papadopoulos, who helped work on Boots' 'Give It Some Boots' campaign, recommends consciously putting something small into your day that changes how you feel and asking yourself what's draining your confidence and what one small thing you can change. As Hacon concludes, no beauty product can magically fix a bad day, but sometimes taking a little time for yourself can make all the difference.
