Events
ON THE SCENE
Behind the scenes at the parties, launches and events in the world of beauty, aesthetics, spa and nails
RESPECT LIVE 2026: THE STATE OF OUR SECTOR
BLOOMSBURY BALLROOM, LONDON
The National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) brought together industry leaders for Respect Live 2026, a policy-led event forming part of its wider Respect Our Sector campaign. The conference focused on the current challenges facing hair, beauty and aesthetics, asking where is the industry now, and what comes next? Opened by NHBF chief executive Caroline Larissey and vice president Jamie Mettyear, the first session took a look at what the NHBF has achieved since its inception and its plans for the year ahead. Central to the event was the presentation of the NHBF’s State of the Sector Survey, offering insight into economic pressures, workforce concerns and business confidence. A panel, including standards and apprenticeship expert Diane Hey, then explored potential reforms, alongside discussions on the NHBF’s 2026 manifesto. There was also a chance for guests including PB’s editor Eve Oxberry to network over afternoon tea, before sessions of the future of our sector and what we can learn from overseas markets.
DERMALOGICA 2026 INNOVATIONS PREVIEW BREAKFAST
MOUNT STREET RESTAURANT, LONDON
Dermalogica hosted a trade media breakfast offering an early preview of its 2026 new products and treatments. Beauty editors and industry press, including Eve, gathered for an insight-led morning, with the brand’s senior team, including UK general manager Cirsten Hannken, who shared updates on upcoming launches and the broader direction of professional skincare. Dermalogica’s education manager Candice Gardner presented the science behind the new innovations, including the Pro Pen 2.0 and the new Futureboost serum, giving guests a deeper understanding of the technology and thinking shaping Dermalogica’s future. The relaxed breakfast setting allowed for open discussion, with attendees encouraged to ask questions and connect with peers.
SKIN ROCKS PRO BREAKFAST
SKIN ROCKS PRO ACADEMY, LONDON
Skin Rocks Pro opened its first permanent training academy in Farringdon, London, in March and the PB editorial team were among the first to check it out. PB's Eve, Ellen and Josie joined Skin Rocks Pro’s head of brand Michelle Hindmarch, as well as Cora Hobbins and Amy Le Roux from the comms team, for breakfast at the deli downstairs from the academy before heading up to see the new space. The academy, which welcomed its first cohort on March 17, is now training therapists from across the UK and features branded treatment beds surrounding a seated area for theory learning, with all trainees also getting to enjoy food from the delicious deli during training. The team left with products to try, including the brand’s latest launch The Strong Acid (see page 69).
UK LAUNCH OF BLUE LAGOON SKIN SCIENCE
THE MAZARINE RESTAURANT, LONDON
Born in Iceland from the healing Blue Lagoon geothermal seawater, Blue Lagoon Skin Science launched into the UK market with an intimate dinner at The Mazarine Restaurant in Mayfair. Industry guests and journalists, including senior content writer Josie Jackson and contributing editor Kezia parkins, were welcomed to an on-theme cocktail hour, where guests also had the opportunity to get hands-on with some of the products on offer. Holmfridur Einarsdottir, managing director of Blue Lagoon Skin Science, provided a backstory on the brand, before Dr Ása Bryndís, the brand’s lead R&D scientist, discussed the formulations behind the products in more depth. Following a brief presentation, guests then enjoyed an evening of seafood and wine, providing an opportunity to chat and learn more about the brand.
APEER SHOWCASE
THE MARYLEBONE, LONDON
The Apeer Showcase introduced a group of salon and clinic owners to the brand’s professional offering and treatment protocols. The event, which was hosted by UK distributor Aspire and attended by PB deputy editor Ellen Cummings, combined presentations, a live treatment demonstration and opportunities for informal discussion. A highlight was a virtual appearance from Dr Emil Henningsen, joining from Denmark, who shared insights from his work with Apeer at Cutis Clinic. The programme also included a demonstration of the Apeer Pro treatment, showcasing the structure of the protocol and how it can be adapted within a professional setting. A key focus was how Apeer can be used alongside pHformula, also distributed by Aspire, to create more comprehensive, results-driven protocols. Educator Gemma Halil delivered a detailed breakdown of the product range, while nurse Nicola Liberos, Apeer’s brand ambassador and a London-based clinic owner, shared practical insights into using Apeer within a clinical setting.