In a polarised society, the meaning of gender is in flux. People want to be liberated from outdated norms – but many hold on to the gender binary as a source of stability in an uncertain world. How can brands navigate the changing gender landscape without leaning on stereotypes?

Diverse representation is an expectation, but as individuals no longer allow themselves to be defined in singular terms, there's mounting pressure on brands to understand and sensitively reflect how the intersections between race, gender, class, and ability impact people's everyday lives.

Morning beauty regimes often leave no time for food; over 40% of UK adults skip breakfast. Believe ‘beauty cereal’ is packed with vitamins to nourish hair, skin and nails. The nutricosmetic market will be worth over $4 billion by 2017, but can we really eat our way to beauty?

How can the beauty world better cater to older women and men? Will social media ‘it girls’ continue maintain their influence over consumers? And are niche brands set to break into the mainstream? Three health and beauty experts give their views on where the sector is heading over the next year.

Masculinity is more attractive than ever. With more than three million men in Britain admitting to wearing make-up – from bronzer to blusher to foundation – the male cosmetics market is booming. But what’s driving this cultural shift? And are men concealing their usage as well as their skin?

Women over 45 account for 41% of spending on cosmetics and toiletries. For these women, beauty is an investment, and they are prepared to pay for it. But the majority of products fail to target the issues women face as they grow older. So just what are beauty brands missing?