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Daily Mail
3 hours ago
- Lifestyle
- Daily Mail
The tired beauty trends and treatments it's time to DITCH in 2025 - and what I'm replacing them with for epic results: POLISHED by Elise Wilson
Welcome to Polished with Elise Wilson, where FEMAIL's qualified makeup artist and hair stylist answers your questions, shares advice and trials the up-and-coming beauty and skincare trends so you don't have to. I hate to say it, but some of your go-to beauty staples are officially on borrowed time. And, if your makeup bag or skincare shelf hasn't had a proper clean-out and glow-up lately, consider this your sign to do so. It's interesting because beauty in 2025 really is a tale of two halves: on one hand we're leaning into exciting ingredient upgrades in both skincare and fragrance, while on the other, we've gone full-circle back to (my) millennial roots of what we know and love - I'm talking about winged-liner, and I'm ecstatic about it. As we hit the second half of the year, the beauty world has spoken and the verdict is clear with some cult favourites getting kicked to the curb in favour of fresher, smarter and often cleaner alternatives. Think of it as a beauty spring clean. The kind where lipsticks are replaced by fruity stains, Shellac is snubbed for something much stronger, 'top treatments' are getting exiled and your trusty old tanning foam? Sorry, but she's on her last legs. Oh, and if you're still clinging to your crusty tube of waterproof mascara, I'm here to stage a gentle intervention. As a beauty expert, I get asked constantly about what's trending, what's dated, and what people should actually spend their money on, and this year it's all about skin-loving, low-maintenance, longevity-focused and, above all, smarter buys. I've rounded up the top 10 trends that I am loving right now, and what you should ditch immediately if you want to stay ahead of the curve. OUT: Shellac nails | IN: BIAB (builder in a bottle) Look, I've never been a fan, but Shellac has officially had its day. I'm very happy to report that a lesser-known alternative called BIAB (which stands for Builder in a Bottle) is the new go-to for long-lasting, natural-looking nails that actually help your real nails grow stronger. It's basically the protein shake of manicures. Strengthening, protective and perfect if you're trying to ditch the cycle of brittle breakage. Plus, the high-gloss finish is pure luxury. I was urged by a friend to book in at Sindoba in Sydney's eastern suburbs, because apparently their BIAB mani's are elite and last 'so long' because of the meticulous care and attention nail tech Soni takes. At $150 per appointment, I was skeptical because for one, that is pricier than a traditional gel-mani. And two, I thought it would instantly chip and peel off like Shellac had always done for me - ruining my nail bed underneath while it was at it. 'Unlike acrylics BIAB is much more gentle and doesn't require harsh filing compared to gel or shellac,' Soni told me. 'It's also thicker and stronger, which means it adds more protection and is less likely to chip or lift.' The fact that I can get four good weeks out of each manicure does justify the extra cost, but alas, I'm already addicted. 'BIAB is designed to be infilled, which helps maintain the nail structure and keeps the natural nail protected underneath. It's a lot healthier than removing and reapplying each time, and clients love the time-saving element too.' OUT: Fillers | IN: Biostimulators Aesthetic experts are seeing a major shift away from traditional fillers in favour of biostimulators like Rejuran (the one that uses polynucleotides (PN) derived from salmon DNA), PDO threads and skin boosters. Instead of plumping instantly, they work with your body to stimulate collagen over time, giving you a more natural, gradual refresh. Think of it as ageing well... with a little help. 'The previously fashionable 'overfilled' look has fallen out of favour, with patients now preferring treatments that subtly enhance their natural appearance,' said Dr Josh Medical Director & Founder of Contour Clinics. However, Dr Josh explained that unlike traditional dermal fillers, 'most biostimulators typically don't provide immediate volumisation'. Instead, it's more about the long game - 'they activate your body's own regenerative processes, intensely promoting collagen synthesis. Over time, this leads to natural lifting, subtle volumisation, tightening, and improved overall skin quality'. I was lucky enough to try a few Rejuran skin booster treatments with Dr Josh a few years ago and I loved the results. The injections certainly stung a bit, and I looked like Quasimodo for a few hours afterwards (picture below for proof), but I was left with insanely glowing results that just kept getting better. Over-laminated, 'electrocuted' crunchy brows? I've seen enough. This year, embracing our natural brow texture is the way forward. Think brushed up, but soft. Less glue stick, more whispery and wearable. A great, soft brow gel and strategic growth serum (if you have sparse, or patchy hairs), will do more for you than another round of overly-laminating ever will. Amy Jean Brows Lamination Brow Gel ($48) - The comb on this really defines my brow hairs and keeps unruly ones in check, all day and night but doesn't make my brows look electrocuted OUT: Traditional Lipstick | IN: Lip Stains Say goodbye to lipsticks that smudge, fade or migrate, because now it's all about a just-bitten tint that lasts all day without touch-ups. Lip stains are sheer, buildable, and way more low effort. I especially love the 'peel-off' formulas that have been going viral on TikTok like Balaeric Beauty's below. OUT: Powder Makeup | IN: Jelly and creams I honestly think anyone over the age of about 25, powder makeup is officially passé, and other makeup artist's agree with me. 'I personally think cream formulations are easier to apply to the skin,' said celebrity makeup artist Michael Brown. 'They are more blendable therefore easier to customise to your preferred pigment intensity [and] give more glow than powders as well as being multi-purpose for lips and eyes.' The new wave of jelly blushes and cream highlighters are lightweight, blend like a dream and give your skin that healthy, dewy glow we're all chasing. Plus, they feel like skincare, don't go cakey and can be reapplied seamlessly throughout the day as and when you need to. OUT: Flat lifeless hair | IN: Face-Framing Layers An evergreen classic that works for all hair types, so I'm told - face-framing layers are something I've only just embraced myself. That's all thanks to my recent visit to see celebrity hair-guru Anthony Nadar, who literally squealed when I suggested we actually 'do something interesting' with my cut - instead of my standard (and boring) one centimeter trim. 'This style is a staple,' he told me. 'Hair layers that hug both the jawline and cheekbones add definition to the face instantly.' As you can clearly see from my before and afters - he wasn't wrong. Tanning foams may give fast colour, but they're often drying and patchy… and orange? I still think they have their place, however tanning milks are my new obsession and great for busy people to still deliver glowing results within just a few hours. The formulas glide on like body lotion (warning: they don't have a guide tan, so blending thoroughly is key to avoid missing a patch), don't smell, are moisturising, buildable and subtle enough for year-round use. If you're constantly scrubbing black smudges off your under-eyes, it's time to switch to a tubing mascara. I've been onto them for years - they coat each lash in a water-resistant 'tube' that slides off with warm water, meaning no panda eyes, no makeup wipes, no drama. And for those that are still getting long, super-heavy (and also damaging) semi-permanent lash extensions, I'm sorry, but they have to go. Between the maintenance, the shedding, and the temptation to pull them off mid-week, they're not worth the stress. A professional lash lift paired with a daily growth serum (I'm obsessed with Revitalash's, and it won't break the bank) is my new secret weapon. Your real lashes, but longer, darker and curled to perfection. Sticky, hair-catching gloss? It does get a bit annoying, doesn't it? Lip oils are having a big (read: HUGE) moment, and I for one am fully on board, especially through a harsh winter chill. The new launches are hydrating, nourishing and give that same glassy shine without the tackiness. Most also come infused with skin-loving ingredients like jojoba, peptides, hyaluronic acid, or a tint if you want three-in-one balm/ gloss/ lip colour. IN (again): Winged Eyeliner Yes, you read that correctly - she's back. I know winged eyeliner received backlash on TikTok in 2024 (if you missed it, wings were largely deemed passé by Gen Z), however the feline flick is making a strong resurgence. This time though, the cat eye is less 'Instagram baddie' and more 'French girl cool.' So imagine sharp flicks with clean skin and no heavy eyeshadow. Millennials everywhere, like me, will be fist pumping at the news. So there you have it, my official beauty trend forecast for the rest of 2025. If you're still clinging to powder compacts, tube gloss and orange tanning products, consider this a loving nudge to evolve. After all, beauty is about playing, updating and occasionally, letting go.
Daily Mail
7 days ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
Coles shoppers gobsmacked over 'eye-watering' price of popular item: 'Wow'
Coles has jumped on board the pistachio-filled dessert trend - but the eye-watering price tag has raised eyebrows among shoppers. The supermarket giant is now selling a fancy pistachio cake, perfect for every special occasion - but it will set you back $40. In comparison, a classic mud cake sold at Coles costs just $6.60. The decadent double-layered vanilla cake is filled with pistachio cream cheese buttercream and topped with crushed nuts. But there may be a simple explanation for the price - the delectable gourmet cake weighs 1.2kg, serves up to 18 people and is made with pistachios, a high-demand ingredient amid a global shortage driven by the viral Dubai chocolate trend. In a 19-second video, Coles confirmed that 'the viral Pistachio Cake has landed'. 'It's so tasty and creamy... We have a delicious cake and it's hand decorated with more buttercream on top plus sprinkles of pistachio to add an extra crunch. 'And the rumours are true, it's absolutely delicious... Our pistachio dreams have come true.' However, many shoppers took particular issue with the cake's $40 price tag. 'It's $40 though. I can go to a cake shop for that money,' one claimed. 'It may look tasty and creamy, but I cannot justify $40 for that cake,' added another. 'For $40 you would want it to be amazing,' chimed in a third. 'Too expensive,' another added. While one shopper said she didn't know how much the cake cost until she got a rude shock at the checkout. FEMAIL contacted Coles to determine the reaction they'd received from customers about the price of its pistachio cake, but is still awaiting comment. The video has been viewed over 130,000 times - with many divided over the cake. One shopper said they would be 'waiting for a yellow clearance ticket' – alluding to the cake being marked down in store closer to its expiry date. However, other customers argued the cake was worth the splurge. 'I absolutely loved it,' one said. 'I bought it last week. Absolutely delicious,' another raved. Sydney woman Rose described the cake as 'the best pistachio collab yet'. She specifically pointed out the size was a 'massive 1.2kg pistachio cake' – suggesting that this warranted a more expensive price. 'The cake is super soft and moist and the buttercream is delicious,' Rose said in her video review. 'This is a must try if you love anything pistachio.' Despite the price tag, many said they were keen to give it a go. 'I need to try this,' one said. 'Wow yum, I need to check it out,' another said. Pistachio has long been the hero ingredient of baklava and Middle Eastern desserts and is currently the popular flavour of the moment. The pistachio trend is believed to have originated from a viral Dubai chocolate bar, which became popular via social media. It was made by Luxury Dubai chocolatier Fix Dessert Chocolatier, with their 'Can't Get Knafeh of It' treat featuring layers of crunchy kataifi pastry, pistachio cream and glossy milk chocolate. The craze has since spawned several copycats, including one from Swiss chocolatier Lindt. Lindt recently released their own version of the Dubai Style Chocolate, $20, which is exclusively available at Lindt Chocolate Shops across Australia. Pistachio has also cropped up as the featured ingredient in other popular sweet treats, including Krispy Kreme donuts. In February, they launched a limited edition Pistachio Overload Doughnut in collaboration with Pistachio Papi spread – and it was an instant sell-out. Krispy Kreme Australia even quietly relaunched the popular flavour recently back in stores. The growing taste for pistachio flavoured treats has even been deemed responsible for creating a global shortage of pistachios. In April, reports emerged that the price of pistachios had skyrocketed due to supplies dwindling. Speaking to the Financial Times, Giles Hacking of nut trader CG Hacking, said that the pistachio industry, had become 'tapped out' as a result of the growing demand kicked off by the viral Dubai chocolate bar. Hacking added that chocolatiers were now making mass purchases of the kernels as they scrambled to produce their own version of the viral chocolate bar.
Daily Mail
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Kmart shoppers go wild over $59 'exclusive' item you can't find anywhere in stores: 'Such a vibe'
Kmart fans are in a frenzy over a new $59 homeware item that's only available online - and it's already being hailed as a must-have for 2025's biggest interior trend: Dollhouse Chic. The Green Boucle Ottoman, listed as an online exclusive, has quickly become one of the most talked-about items on social media, with shoppers scrambling to snap it up before it sells out. The minimalist piece features a rich sage green hue and a plush, boucle fabric - making it the perfect blend of comfort and style. With its compact design and curved silhouette, it effortlessly taps into the current obsession with soft, feminine interiors. One thrilled Kmart customer told FEMAIL she couldn't believe the quality for the price. 'It looks like something you'd find in a boutique furniture store - not from Kmart and definitely not for $59,' she said. 'I need to get my hands on it. I will style mine next to a floor-length mirror with a pastel cushion on top - I'm sure it will be the most complimented piece in my home.' Those who got their hands on the statement piece couldn't get enough of it, with one saying: 'How cute is this Kmart find? The boucle ottoman is my fave.' 'Ottoman is a vibe,' another shared. 'Stunning,' one added. Interior expert Lucy Sutherland previously told FEMAIL that Dollhouse Chic is the antidote to cold minimalism. 'This style embraces soft femininity, delicate details and vintage-inspired charm,' she said. 'Think pastel hues, curved shapes, and romantic textures. It's all about creating a dreamy, inviting space.' The ottoman is designed for daily use and endless versatility. It can be styled as a footrest in a reading nook, extra seating in a living area, or even as a vanity stool in a bedroom. For those wanting to go full Dollhouse Chic, the piece pairs beautifully with candles, ceramic trinket dishes, dried florals, and muted-toned cushions. Think soft pinks, lavenders, powder blues, and the signature sage green that defines the look - all tied together with plush textures like velvet, fluted glass, and rattan. With shoppers already reporting low stock and warning others to 'run, don't walk,' the ottoman is expected to disappear quickly - and with its high-end aesthetic and budget-friendly price tag, it's easy to see why.
Daily Mail
08-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
I've tried thousands of skincare products - but there's only ONE 'magic potion' I'd spend my money on for real results (and the experts agree): POLISHED by Elise Wilson
Welcome to Polished with Elise Wilson, where FEMAIL's qualified makeup artist and hair stylist answers your questions, shares advice and trials the up-and-coming beauty and skincare trends so you don't have to. If I had a dollar for every time a friend or family member whispered, 'Do I really need a serum?', I'd be writing this from a villa in Tuscany. In my opinion - and that of countless derms and facialists I've talked to over the years, I should add - those slippery little potions you might be skipping in favour of a thick cream, are actually the MVP of your skincare shelf. (A pic of my 'shelfie' below for context). And if you're not using one yet? Consider this your official nudge to learn just how a great serum can transform your skin into that glowing glass-like complexion that only seems to be reserved for the stars. One of the best parts of my job as a beauty editor - aside from the overflowing shelves of face masks and lip balms - is the sheer volume of skincare I get to try. Trust me, if there's a serum worth knowing about, it's probably passed over my face at some point. After nearly two decades in the industry, my skin has been through just about everything. (Ask me about the lip-plumping gadget that turned my mouth blue for four days!). In full transparency: I've had filler, and for the past eight-or-so years I've been no stranger to the world of neuromodulators (those magic injections that start with the letter 'B', if you're also in the club, fine if not though of course). But I'm always trying to stretch out the time between those appointments, and I honestly believe it's the clever, hardworking serums in my routine that are helping me do just that. Of course, the skincare I relied on in my late 20s doesn't quite cut it anymore. Now that I'm well into my 30s, my skin's needs have shifted. While I've always prioritised looking after my complexion, and have a few professional treatments under my belt, I still deal with congestion, unpredictable Sydney weather, and full-time exposure to recycled office air. And that combination? It's not exactly skin friendly. So, I rely heavily on smart, targeted serums to keep my glow going, even when life (and air con) tries to dull it down. I'm very aware too that some people are layering five of them morning and night like it's a chemistry experiment, while others aren't even sure what they are, let alone know where they slot into their routine. Between TikTok influencers spruiking 12-step routines and shelves groaning with alphabet creams - A for anti-ageing, B for barrier-boosting, C for collagen, D for... who knows - it's enough to make anyone break out from stress alone. But if you care about your skin (and chances are, if you're reading this, you do), serums are not optional. They're essential. I'm not saying you need to mortgage your house to buy them, or that you'll wake up with Hailey Bieber's glass skin by Friday. But used correctly, the right serum can absolutely change your skin. Whether it's brightening dullness, softening lines, fading pigment, and helping you age a little more like Jennifer Aniston and a little less like a shrivelled apricot. So, what are serums, really? When should you start using them? What's the deal with Retinol vs Retinal? And do you really need these skincare A, B, C's, or is the industry just gaslighting us all? To answer all of that and more, I tapped one of Australia's most trusted celebrity skincare experts, Ingrid Seaburn, for her no-nonsense intel, because we all need a bit of expert guidance to cut through this serum circus. Let's get into it. What is a serum, anyway? Let's start with the basics. According to Ingrid, 'A serum is usually defined as a concentrated version of active ingredients (or non-active) to deliver to the dermal layer of the skin a specific effect on the health of the skin.' As for application? 'They are applied after cleansing and before moisturising,' she added. Ingrid also likened serums to tiny skin soldiers, packed with potent actives that actually do something, unlike many moisturisers, which mostly sit on top and feel nice. Do I need one? (And if so, when?) Short answer? Yes. Long answer? Also yes, but it depends on which one. 'You can start using antioxidant serums from your late teens,' Ingrid explained. 'Once you hit your 30s and 40s, anti-ageing serums with Vitamin A and C should be non-negotiable to slow down oxidative and cellular ageing.' If you're still in your twenties and glowing like a glazed donut, you can keep it simple. However, by 30, your skin starts producing less collagen and cell turnover begins to slack off, which is where serums step in to speed things back up. I make it a very indulgent skincare ritual every morning with a great cup of coffee and some Maria Carey in the background on loop. It certainly puts a pep in my step, and my skin. So which one do I buy? (Enter the ABCs of skincare…) There are a lot of serums out there, and as you've probably gathered if you've made it this far, the ingredient list can read like a science textbook. But don't worry, I've broken down the big three you actually need to know: Vitamin A (aka Retinol or Retinal): This is the gold standard in serums according to Ingrid. 'Retinol is the most important anti-ageing ingredient. It regulates oil, increases cell turnover and makes your skin act like younger skin.' But here's the kicker: not all Vitamin A serums are created equal. You might've heard the ongoing 'Retinol vs Retinal' debate, and yes, there is a difference. 'Retinal is the second phase of conversion of retinoid acid in your skin, and in my opinion, it's the most effective and well-tolerated form of vitamin A. It works faster than standard Retinol and is gentler too.' And what about the trendy natural option, Bakuchiol? 'It's not half as effective, but can be nice to build skin health in the right formula,' she added. TLDR: Retinal is your best bet if you want results and comfort. Apply at night only and always follow with an SPF the next day a it can make skin more sensitised. I have used the Medik8 Crystal Retinal formulas ($99) for years and I like that they have a staging process starting at level 3 and building up. So newbies can start at the gentle, lower end of potency and then work up as their skin tolerates. Vitamin B (aka Niacinamide): The ultimate team player, Niacinamide is a brilliant all-rounder that boosts your skin's barrier, helps with redness, and plays well with other actives. Pictured: Paula's Choice Niacinamide 20% Treatment ($78) The ultimate team player, Niacinamide is a brilliant all-rounder that boosts your skin's barrier, helps with redness, and plays well with other actives. 'It also helps combat rosacea and other issues,' If your skin is sensitive, this one's a winner. A product like Paula's Choice Niacinamide 20% Treatment ($78) is a good potent formula that can happily be layered in with your other favourite serums. Vitamin C: Brightening, protective, collagen-boosting, this antioxidant does it all. 'Vitamin C plays a big role in collagen production and helps repair and prevent UV damage,' Ingrid noted. You'll want to use this in the morning under SPF for that radiant, glowy skin we all fake with highlighter. Brightening, protective, collagen-boosting, this antioxidant does it all with Ingrid noting 'Vitamin C plays a big role in collagen production and helps repair and prevent UV damage'. Pictured: iS Clinical's Super Serum Advanced+ ($161 right) and La Roche-Posay 10% Pure Vitamin C Serum ($75) left Any dermatologist (or beauty editor) would agree with me that La Roche-Posay 10% Pure Vitamin C Serum ($75) is a great pharmacy find. And it's often on sale for a fraction of the price, btw. Whereas iS Clinical's Super Serum ($161) is another great vitamin C option, and a brand loved by the likes of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and actress Meghan Fahy for both this cult formula and their multi-use Pro-Heal Serum Advance serum too. Hyaluronic Acid Technically not active, but absolutely essential nonetheless. It's like a tall glass of water for your skin. 'It sits in your epidermis and helps retain water,' Pro tip: always apply it to damp skin and follow up with a moisturiser to lock it in. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 ($15.90) is one of the most budget-friendly and reputable formula I've come across. Can you just use one serum at a time? You can, but you don't have to. My personal routine includes a hydrating hyaluronic serum in the morning, followed by Vitamin C, then at night I rotate between Retinal and Niacinamide (depending on how sensitive my skin's feeling). The trick is to ease into actives slowly, and to listen and see what your skin really needs. In winter, I need moisture and glow, so my Retinal is usually pared back a bit. 'Introduce them by trialling small amounts gradually,' Ingrid advised. 'The results will take time. Do not expect overnight miracles, be patient!' Remember, your skin journey is a marathon, not a sprint with the magic word being 'consistency' according to Ingrid. 'Be guided by a professional and tweak your routine based on your age and skin needs.' So, if you've been wondering whether it's time to up your skincare game, I hope this guide has helped just a little bit so you can go forth and serum like a pro. And as I like to say, your future is in your hands… and on your face.
Daily Mail
07-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Dakota, 28, was fit, happy and had no reason to think anything was wrong with her health. Then she received heartbreaking news
Just three weeks before her 29th birthday, Dakota Middleby 's life changed in an instant. It was March 26 when she received the call that confirmed her worst fears. What began as seemingly innocuous swelling under her right arm turned out to be something far more serious: stage 3, grade 3 HER2-positive breast cancer - a rare and aggressive form of the disease most often associated with older women. 'I initially went to the doctors seven years ago for a lump I found in my breast, but I was told it was a fatty lump and not harmful,' Dakota told FEMAIL. 'The only thing I noticed this time was some swollen lymph nodes under my arm. My doctor initially thought it was viral, and that I'd start to get sick because of it. But weeks went by and they weren't going down.' Eventually, she was sent for an ultrasound. 'I put it off for a week because I couldn't get an appointment and I didn't think it was serious. I mean, I was 28 and extremely healthy - what could it actually have been? 'But then I saw the ultrasound technician's face change and I knew something was wrong,' she recalled. Dakota's doctor told her it was suspected breast cancer. 'I was in shock,' she recalled. 'There's no cancer in my family. I felt completely healthy. I didn't know people in their twenties could get breast cancer.' What followed was a blur of medical tests: two biopsies, a PET scan, a CT scan, and a flurry of bloodwork. Then came the official diagnosis - stage 3 HER2-positive breast cancer, known for how quickly it spreads. 'I literally thought I was going to die. My whole life flashed before my eyes,' she said. She had just moved from the Gold Coast to Melbourne for a new job, but within six months, she was forced to resign to focus on treatment. 'I resigned when I was diagnosed, just because mentally it was too much to try and manage both,' she said. Dakota quickly discovered how aggressive her treatment would need to be. HER2-positive cancers require a combination of chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and often surgery. There wasn't time to do traditional egg freezing to preserve her fertility. Instead, she underwent emergency ovarian tissue freezing - a relatively uncommon procedure - and began monthly Zoladex injections to shut down her ovaries and protect them from the harsh effects of chemo. 'I had to go into early menopause almost overnight,' she said, suffering menopause-like symptoms such as hot flushes, mood swings, and more changes and puts your body through a physical toll. Dakota's chemotherapy began shortly after. Every three weeks, she receives a round of powerful drugs designed to kill the cancer cells. 'I get mouth ulcers, nausea, heartburn, memory fog, and even temporary vision issues,' she said. 'It takes about a week to even feel semi-human again. By the second week, I start feeling slightly better. The third week is my only good week - then it all starts again.' Two weeks after her first treatment, her hair started to fall out. 'My skin changed overnight. I've gone from having clear skin to acne on my face, chest and back,' she said. 'It's not something I can hide, and that's been one of the hardest parts.' In September, Dakota is scheduled to undergo surgery to remove the lymph nodes from her right side. If chemotherapy hasn't shrunk the tumour enough by then, doctors will perform a mastectomy. Determined to keep her mind active, she recently began an internship with a marketing agency. 'I just wanted to keep my brain moving and keep learning as much as I can,' she explained. Still, daily life looks dramatically different now. Even something as simple as leaving the house has become a challenge. 'It's whether you're brave enough to go to the grocery store with no hair and have everyone look,' she said. 'Otherwise it's, "Where's my wig? I've got to put my wig on". Those appearance-based things mean a lot more now. You're looked at differently.' Being 29 and living in Melbourne, she used to thrive on a busy social life. 'There was always something happening - going out for a wine during the week, seeing friends, just being out and about,' she said. 'Now it feels like everything's been put on hold.' Even the small things - those most people wouldn't think twice about - have shifted. 'I have to be so careful about what I eat, make sure all my vegetables are washed properly, make sure I'm walking, moving my body, keeping on top of everything. It's a lot. A lot of things have changed,' she said. The experience has made her re-evaluate everything - including how long the cancer may have been growing. 'I was told I had a fatty lump in my breast when I was 21. I didn't get it checked again until now,' she said. 'Looking back, I wonder if that was the start of it.' Despite everything, Dakota has found strength in unexpected places. She's continued doing Pilates and is completing her internship to stay mentally stimulated between treatments. 'There were a couple of weeks where I was in a 'poor me' headspace,' she said. 'But I've had to shift my mindset. I don't want cancer to take more from me than it already has.' She's also been buoyed by support from her loved ones. Her mum has flown to Melbourne twice to help care for her, and her partner has remained by her side. 'He's been incredible. His workplace has been so understanding, and not everyone is that lucky,' she said. But Dakota knows many other women don't have the same support - or access to early screenings. Since sharing her story, she's been contacted by other women in their twenties who are also battling breast cancer. 'I've heard from girls as young as 20 who have it. We're not anomalies - it's happening more and more,' she said. 'But there's still a massive age bias. We're told we're "too young" for breast cancer. We're not taught to check our breasts. Screenings aren't offered to us. And when we do speak up, we're often dismissed.' That's why she's launching a donation fund to help women under 40 access early breast cancer screenings - even if they don't have symptoms or family history. 'There's just no help for us,' she said. 'You shouldn't have to find a lump or wait until it's stage 3 to get answers.' Her goal is to have the fund up and running by the end of the year. 'I don't want to just survive this. I want to do something with it,' she said.
