Archive - August 2008

Spa Review: CHAMPNEYS TRING (15.08.08)

Location: Champneys Tring Health Resort, Wigginton, Tring, Herts, HP23 6HY. 08703 300 300.

www.champneys.com 
Facilities: If you shut your eyes and imagine a lavish five star hotel, you probably see beautiful interiors, big comfortable bedrooms, a grand dining room with an irresistible menu, a drawing room for relaxation, and spacious manicured grounds. This is all true of Champneys Tring. But to get the full picture, you need to add the unrivalled and truly indulgent spa facilities – the luxurious 25m pool, warm laconium, herbal steam chamber, menthol-scented sauna, packed schedule of fitness and relaxation classes, and long list of pampering treatments. Guests roam the elegant stately home in fluffy white robes and slippers – a form of dress that is acceptable anywhere and anytime on the premises, even at dinner. Packages range from 2 night breaks to 12 night retreats, all of which include three healthy meals a day and several treatments.
Ambience: The ambience of the spa is what you make it – either active and buzzing or utterly relaxed. I visited Champneys Tring with a friend and found it was the perfect place for a girly getaway. We didn’t stop talking for the whole weekend and there was absolutely no pressure to keep our voices down in communal areas. We loved the fact we could spend the morning keeping fit in aerobics and aqua fit classes, then spend the afternoon enjoying treatments or a quiet few hours reading in our room. We left feeling energised and de-stressed – and we’re already discussing dates for our next visit.
Treatment Tested:
Champneys Ultimate Indulgence Body Massage, £75 for 55 mins
Using oils of lavender, mandarin and chamomile, this treatment is the ideal antidote for tense muscles or a stressed mind. The therapist began on my back and shoulders, kneading the tension away with strong relaxing strokes. She checked that the pressure was right at this early stage, allowing me to drift away for the rest of the treatment. The backs of my legs were then worked on, before I turned over to enjoy the treatment on my upper legs, arms, stomach and chest. Finally, the therapist used the richly fragrant oils to massage my scalp and neck. I kept the oils in my hair until late that evening and loved the shine it gave to my hair. This treatment is perfect for enjoying on your first afternoon at Champneys, leaving you totally relaxed to enjoy the rest of your stay.
2-night breaks at Champneys Tring start at £359.95 per person



Breaking News: LUSH’S NAKED CAMPAIGN GOES GLOBAL (22.08.08)


If you walk down the high street and catch a glimpse of a shop employee wearing nothing but an apron, you may not be imagining things. UK Lush employees first plucked up the courage to bare their bums to save the planet in July of last year – a stunt to urge shoppers to go ‘naked’ by purchasing goods that don’t contain any packaging. 2008 sees the campaign going global, with the cheeky protest reaching Sweden, Holland, North America, and just last week, Germany. The cosmetics company is highlighting the fact that packaging contributes to 2% of overall greenhouse gases and that plastic uses 8% of the world’s oil resources. The UK alone generates 10 million tons of packaging waste every year, half of which ends up in a landfill. Lush is leading the cosmetic industry in efforts to eliminate packaging by selling solid products that do not requite plastic bottles. By removing the water from the product, Lush’s innovative solid shampoo bars, conditioners, massage bars, body butters, bubble bars and soaps are sold to the customer deli-style, without any packaging. As a result, the company saved the production, transportation, and disposal of approximately 3 million plastic bottles last year alone . Lush founder Mark Constantine says ‘“Packaging is rubbish and for too long we have had to suffer excessive amounts of it. Now that the true financial and environmental costs are becoming obvious, customers are challenging manufacturers and retailers to cut the wrap. Companies like ours need to think outside the box and present customers with innovations that allow them buy truly naked products.” With so many tempting solid products to choose from, supporting the naked campaign is a real pleasure. Try the cellulite-bashing Buffy, £4.50 for 90g – a solid slab of cocoa and shea butter, with exfoliating grains of rice, almonds, and beans. Or indulge in Floating Island, £3.25 for 100g – a delicious vanilla-scented bath
melt, which dissolves slowly in warm water and leaves skin incredibly soft. Visit www.lush.co.uk


Breaking News: THE BODY SHOP INTRODUCES MINERAL MAKEUP COLLECTION
(29.08.08)


If you haven’t already noticed, mineral makeup is one of biggest beauty trends of 2008. With Bare Minerals being the best selling foundation stateside, brands on this side of the pond have been falling over themselves to get a line onto the shelves. This week sees the launch of The Body Shop’s Nature’s Mineral Makeup range – a stunning range of loose powder shades for the face, cheeks and eyes. If you think The Body Shop is all about body care, it’s time to take a trip into store. Their makeup collection is well respected in the beauty industry and the launch of the mineral range gives us a further excuse to splurge. The Nature’s Minerals collection comprises a long-lasting foundation with SPF25, four fresh fabulous cheek colours, and six sensational pearlescent eye shades. The range is perfect for those with sensitive skin, being preservative, fragrance and oil free. It’s so pure you could probably even sleep in it. And because each fabulous product is presented in a recycled jar, you can feel even better about your new favourite products. Our highlight is the Nature’s Minerals Makeup Foundation, which retails at £15 and is available in six shades. The ultra-fine powder is easy to blend and build, covering redness, imperfections, blemishes and visible pores. Rich in the earth’s minerals, ingredients include Mediterranean clay and kaolin for staying power, Sericite and mica based pearls for lustre, and mica to help distinguish fine lines. Red, yellow and black iron oxide provide colour, while titanium dioxide helps provide sun protection. The powder should be applied with the Nature’s Minerals Makeup Foundation Brush, also £15, in circular motions. The range is available from September 2008. www.thebodyshop.co.uk

Feature: METALLIC BEAUTY (29.08.08)


From the molton makeup that soldered the catwalks to the hottest jewel-infused skin care to make us shine... We have everything you need to make the most of autumn's heavy metals.

EYES: A 24-carat seal is the hottest look for lids this autumn. Nina Ricci, Cavalli, Tuleh and Chanel (as pictured, courtesy of Chanel) all brightened fashion’s sombre silhouettes with smouldering golden eyes. Thankfully it is a shade which flatters all skin tones and is a welcome softer alternative to all the gothic eyes and lips around.
Leave Chanel’s solid eyelash to eyebrow look to the catwalks. The secret is to keep it polished with lots of shading, minimal lips and pretty cheeks. Blend the upper lid with Chanel Eye Powder Shadow in gold, £17 (020 7493 5040). It has a lovely pearly shimmer that does not sit in the creases and is great for brightening tired eyes. Then accentuate the rim with Dior Limited Edition Impression Cuir Leather Couture Compact for the Eyes, £35 (020 7216 0216). Its Wet Reflect technology gives the bronze hues an ultra-intense dimension that is bursting with shine. For the finishing touch, dot the starry liquid eye shadow Prescriptives Moonbeam Reflective Eyecolour in Golden Arc, £15.50 (0870 034 2566) into each inner socket for sheer Velvet Goldmine appeal.

BASE: Every mega-watt look is founded on fresh, flawless skin that cannot be faked.
Mineral makeup is the latest launch to help us in our luminous quest. Prescriptives All Skins Mineral Makeup, £24 (0870 034 2566) is a lightweight powder foundation that does a lot more than just glide effortlessly onto the skin. It is the only mineral-based product to be infused with a unique complex of amethyst, rose quartz and calcite. So not only does it maximise the skin’s radiance, giving that wonderful glowing-from-within look, it contains antioxidants and skin conditioners, including vitamin C and E, to actually improve the texture of your complexion rather than just papering over the cracks. Start by applying outside of the cheekbone moving towards the nose and back, then follow along the jaw-line, across the forehead and down the nose. Available in 18 different colours you can find practically your bespoke shade.

SKIN: Just as minerals and precious metals are being harnessed to improve our makeup, so they are also being used to enhance our skincare. The latest is Elemis Pro-Collagen Quartz Lift Mask, £45 (www.timetospa.co.uk). Combining the power of Quartz with a powerful marine extract Padina Pavonica, not to mention a cocktail of antioxidants, it enhances cell renewal, gives long-term hydration and improves all round elasticity. It also has a feather-light gel formula that feels so delicious on the skin you can leave it on over-night.
When it comes to moisturising, it does not get more luxurious than Chantecaille’s Nano Gold Energising Cream, £350 (www.spacenk.co.uk) - plumping, firming, radiance in a pot. It works by exploiting the antioxidant and anti-ageing powers of tiny particles of pure gold, and is being billed as a powerful healing breakthrough. Not only does the cream contain an anti-fatigue complex to help the skin to manage daily stresses and improve its metabolism, it also scavenges free radicals and soothes inflammation. It’s costly, but for the future of your skin it is worth its weight in gold.

NAILS: This season’s nails should be a melting pot of shimmering metallics. London’s leading nail expert Leighton Denny says: “This season is all about statement nails in complete contrast to the girly pastel colours for summer.” So to make sure your talons scream attitude he has come up with a glimmering gold hue called Doing Time, or why not try his irrepressible aquamarine called Jailbird, both £10 (0845 8620515). 
Another must-see is Butter London. Both the Diamond Geezer in Platinum or Big Smoke in Metallic Blue, both £10 (0845 254 5409) will give you a mega-watt manicure.

But for the final word in lacquer it has to be Marian Newman’s new range The Inkredibles. The former police forensic scientist has used the latest nanotechnology colour-enhancing ceramic beads to create her dazzling metallic shades. Encased in a unique nail pen, you can paint with much greater precision to give the ultimate finish. This is so much more than just varnish. From £22 (01446 775501).

BASE: If the idea of gold makeup is too much, why not test the water by switching your normal pink blusher for a copper-flecked bronzer. Dior Shimmer Powder in Copper Diamond, £28 (020 7216 0216) brightens the complexion beautifully with a subtle metallic glow.
Then move to a warming highlighter with Chanel Facettes d’Or Joues Contraste in Gold Fever, £29 (0207 4935040) - it gives an expensive but subtle glisten when swept over the cheekbones.
Finally, for a versatile little pencil that will take you from day to night in a sweep, choose Benefit Gilded Highlighting Pencil, (£12.50, www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk). This is like solid gold in a stick. You can apply it as an eyeliner, on the brow bone and on the lips before gloss or after lipstick and it catches the light beautifully.

LIPS: Glisten up! Lips are shimmering into a glossy pout for autumn. Metallic shades give a high-tech touch to almost any look. Make sure your pout is prepped to perfection and then choose a gloss that is smooth not sticky.
For a splash of gilt-infused colour, choose YSL Golden Gloss Shimmer Lip Gloss, £17.50 (Counters Nationwide) in Golden Purple or Golden Berry. Lips are tinted with a sheer wash of colour, while the high-shine gold specks add a glamorous sparkle. 
For a gossamer light gloss, try Dior Addict Ultra-Gloss Reflect, £15.50 (020 7216 0216), which gives an uber-amplified shine in coral lamé or beige lurex.
But if you want to go all-out loud and lavish, then MAC Pro Chromacake in Black Black, £18 (0207 534 9222) with MAC Lipglass in Clear, £10.50 (www.maccosmetics.co.uk) is as strong and sexy as black onyx. This ultimate glossy goth look is not for the thin-lipped or faint-hearted, but is a sure-fire way to steal the spotlight.

Tried & Tested: Lengthening Mascaras (29.08.08)
It’s the most frequently used and relied-upon item in our makeup bags… We’ve tested six mascaras that promise to dramatically lengthen lashes.

BENEFIT BAD GAL LASH MASCARA, £14.50 (www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk)
First impressions: Everything about this mascara is big – from the chunky oversized wand, to the trendy black and hot pink box. The mascara comes in just one shade, a rich black.
The Results: Benefit says this mascara is like ‘wearing a set of false eyelashes without the glue’ so I decided to save it for wearing on a big night out. I needed to wipe off a little excess from the end of the wand before I applied, but was really pleased that not a single clump appeared on my lashes when I stroked through. In terms of length, I wasn’t at all disappointed. I wear glasses and my lashes were so long that they kept hitting the lens!
Best for: Extreme length

CALVIN KLEIN TRUE LUSTRE LENGTHENING MASCARA, £13 (0207 0034000)
First impressions: As you’d expect from Calvin Klein, the packaging and mascara itself are very stylish. The wand has deep brushes to coat lashes fully and quickly.
The Results: I don’t usually spend a lot of money on mascara, so it was a real treat to be handed this product to test. I wasn’t disappointed – the fat curved wand coated my lashes perfectly with just a few strokes. They looked much longer and fuller – but the best bit was the way it curled my lashes too. It looked like I had used eyelash curlers and the results lasted all day. I’m thrilled to have discovered it and won’t be going back to my usual brands.
Best for: Curl

BOBBI BROWN LASH GLAMOUR LENGTHENING MASCARA, £15 (www.bobbibrown.co.uk)
First impressions: A sleek silver tube, which contains an impressive 10ml of mascara. A long thin wand that picks up the perfect amount of product for each application.
The Results: I have short stumpy lashes, which I usually need to paint with at least five coats to get a look I’m happy with. I wasn’t sure this mascara would do the job when I saw the thin sparse brush, but I was very pleasantly surprised. With just a few coats, my lashes instantly appeared longer. It worked by grouping a few lashes together, which also gave the illusion of volume. I love the packaging too, I’ll be proud to get this out of my makeup bag in public!
Best for: Instant length

BOURJOIS TALONS AIGUILLES LENGTHENING & CURVING MASCARA, £7.95 (0800 269836)
First impressions: As with all Bourjois products, the packaging is simple but classic. The wand is impressively long and deep.
The Results: With such a long thick wand, I was expecting my lashes to be coated in an excess of mascara. I was totally wrong – the application was really precise and actually took quite a few strokes to coat the lashes fully. As the wand was so deep, it acted as a comb and my lashes were separated as I brushed the wand upwards from the root. The result was long lashes without a single clump. I’m really impressed by the price and will be stocking up.
Best for: Budget Buy

CLARINS WONDER LENGTH MASCARA, £16.50 (www.clarins.co.uk)
First impressions: A long super-skinny mascara in stylish scarlet red. The mascara wand itself is long and very thin, allowing precise application.
The Results: Although application took a little longer than I was used to, I was really impressed with the results with this mascara. The thin brush made it easy to target each lash and ensure it was fully coated. It also made it impossible for my lashes to clump together, as not enough product was being picked up. I don’t think my lashes looked hugely fuller, but they definitely looked longer and nicely curled. I loved the fact I didn’t need to use an eyelash comb and will be using it every morning.
Best for: No clumps

MAC ZOOM LASH MASCARA, £10 (www.maccosmetics.co.uk)
First impressions: Simple but stylish black packaging, containing a mascara with a deep full wand. The non-slip surface makes jogs a thing of the past.
The Results: I have short eyelashes that could definitely benefit from a little more length and volume, so I was excited to try this mascara. The wand is really thick, with lots of deep brushes, so my lashes were coated with just a few strokes. Just a few of my lashes got stuck together, so I used a lash comb to brush them and quickly boasted an impressively full set of lashes. They not only looked longer, but also had a subtle curl.
Best for: Volume

Breaking News: GIVENCHY'S AUTUMN/WINTER COLLECTION LAUNCHES (08.08.08)


Givenchy’s stylish new Autumn/Winter collection has just hit shelves near you – and we’re racing you to the shelves to get our hands on it.
The range launched at Givenchy counters nationwide on 15th August 2008. Inspired by the trend for Dandy fashion, seen everywhere on the Autumn/Winter catwalks with a rock-and-roll twist, the collection is designed to create smoky eyes, a fresh glowing complexion, and intensely scarlet lips.
Like all of Givenchy’s makeup, this range is going to give your dressing table a stylish makeover too. The Dandy theme is continued through the sleek packaging, which is evocative of crisp navy tailored suits and chic polka dots to add a touch of femininity.
Highlights from the irresistible collection include the shimmering eye palette Prisme Again! Shimmer Eyes in Smoky Shimmer (£27.50) and the Pocket Beauty Case (£33) – created to look like a men’s pocket watch, the case opens to reveal a delicate pink gloss that can be used on cheeks and lips.
The range is now available at Givenchy counters nationwide.

Breaking News: DONNA KARAN REVIVES CLASSIC FRAGRANCES
 (15.08.08)


Countless women have mourned the loss of their favourite discontinued Donna Karan fragrance, so the launch of ‘Donna Karan, The Collection’ is set to prompt huge excitement. The luxe wardrobe of 8 fragrances, which launched this week, is a showcase of Donna Karan’s most popular and iconic fragrances of the past and present.
Since the launch of the beautifully seductive Signature in 1992, Donna Karan has produced one cult fragrance after another. The exclusive collection includes the classic scents of Signature, Chaos, Fuel for Men, and Black Cashmere, plus the four elemental scents that make up the Essence collection (Lavender, Wenge, Jasmine and Labdanam). The wardrobe gives the opportunity for customers to pick a signature scent or to layer the fragrances to create something more complex to suit every mood.
Each fragrance is priced at £55 and is packaged in a stylish black cylindrical 100ml bottle. The collection is currently available exclusively at Harrods but will be reaching department stores across the UK on 17th September. Mark that date firmly in your diary.

SPA REVIEW: TITANIC SPA
(02.08.08)



Location: Titanic Spa, Low Westwood Lane, Linthwaite, Huddersfield, HD7 5UN. 0845 4103333. www.titanicspa.co.uk
Facilities: There are countless good excuses for booking a visit to West Yorkshire’s Titanic Spa… Its picturesque setting within a traditional texture mill on the edge of the Pennines... The purely indulgent body treatments… The excellent facilities, including a crystal steam room, aromatherapy room, and saunarium… The spacious overnight apartments and excellent in-house bistro serving local produce. If you need any further convincing, Titanic is also the UK’s first eco-spa, working from within an entirely carbon-neutral building. The spa creates its own power, using solar panels to catch the daylight all year round and regulates the salt in the chlorine-free swimming pool. But don’t for one moment think that the eco-credentials scrimp on luxuries – Titanic Spa is everything you could want from an indulgent spa retreat and more.
Ambience: I visited Titanic Spa with my sister on a Thursday and Friday. On arrival the relaxed and serene atmosphere was immediately apparent and throughout the stay we were able to enjoy the facilities in peace and quiet, without ever feeling we needed to keep our voices down. After a relaxing first day we retired to our comfortable accommodation for the best night’s sleep we had both enjoyed for a long time.
Treatments Tested:
Elemis Tri-Enzyme resurfacing Facial, £70 for 55 mins
This anti-aging facial, which promises to resurface and smooth the skin, makes use of a selection of different aromatherapy oils to cleanse, tone, exfoliate and moisturise the skin. I also enjoyed the welcome addition of a massage to my feet, arms, shoulders, neck, and head while a repairing mask worked its magic. my skin felt smoother and was glowing with health. After the mask was removed, the therapist moved the massage to my face and when the treatment was over my skin felt smoother and was glowing with health.
Decleor Aroma Cocoon Body Wrap, £65 for 55 mins
The therapist started this pampering body treatment by thoroughly exfoliating my skin, then massaging my back and shoulders. A rich and creamy mask was then generously applied and left to soothe my skin as I was wrapped in a blanket and given a relaxing head massage. The therapist then removed the blanket and I stepped into a warm shower – as the mask washed off, I noticed how soft my skin felt. To finish the treatment, a rich moisturiser was applied.

The Feature: FAST BEAUTY (15.08.08)
Spending time on our beauty regime isn't always an option. When time is of the essence, we need products that will get the job done and get us out the door... fast.

LAST MINUTE HAIR: We’ve all been there – those early mornings when there’s no time for a hair wash, but letting the world see it’s dirty is not an option.
Thanks to a new breed of in-between wash hair products, it’s easy to get away with morning-after-night-before locks just that little bit longer.
The Product: Richard Ward One More Day Hair Reviver, £4.99 for 150ml (Available at leading Superdrug stores nationwide).

This ingenious little spray can give you a just-washed look, even if you know otherwise. The spray glams up your locks and adds a dash of citrusy floral fragrance to perk you up after a night out has sapped your energy.

It comes in a wet formulation, so that you can re-style your hair without having to go to the bother of washing it, and it comes in a handy handbag size so that you can keep it with you for those emergency hair touch-up moments – like parties and nights out on the town.

Just section your hair off and spray One More Day from the roots to the tips, then restyle as normal. Nobody needs to know!

SPEEDY STYLING: The days of waiting around for straighteners to warm up could be firmly in the past, with styling gadgets that are super fast and super stylish.
The Product: Mikado professional ceramic straightener, £68.75 (www.justbeautifully.co.uk).

Get ready for the fantastically fast Mikado professional ceramic straighteners – they are heated and ready to use in just 35 seconds. If you are blessed with fine hair, you can use the variable setting to avoid frying your delicate tresses, but if you need the extra oomph of heat to cope with unruly hair, you can turn the setting up as far as it will go and it’s ready to go in no time at all. The straighteners will give amazing results, whether you want poker straight hair or you’re experimenting with waves and curls. Not only that, but if you’re prone to absent-mindedness when you’re in a hurry, the Mikado has built in HEATSAFE technology that means it will never heat up beyond 230°c. Perfect for gorgeous hair in a hurry


INSTANT FACELIFT: With the assistance of cosmetic surgery, wrinkles could easily be a distant memory. But we aren’t all blessed with the courage, bank balance, time, and pain threshold that make extreme surgery feasible.
It’s time to turn to the bottle…The Product: Skin Doctors Instant Facelift, £29.95 for 30ml (Available Nationwide from Boots, Debenhams, and John Lewis). With Instant Facelift, it’s easy to perk your face up and look fresher and younger. Better still, it happens in five minutes flat. The wonder potion uses a combination of active ingredients to work magic in no time at all – Liftensyl to smooth, Argatensyl to tighten, and Easyliance to lift. Simply apply a small amount evenly over your face and neck in an upward motion, leave it for a few minutes, and you’re done. It’s a lovely base for foundation and works as a moisturiser too.


QUICK CLEANSING: If you dream of having a few extra minutes in the morning and need to clear some space on your dressing table, here’s just thing.
The Product: MD Skincare EZ4U 4-in-1 Facial Treatment Pads, £30 for 30 applications (0203 006 9841)
For the ultimate in multi-tasking beauty innovation, one quick swipe of one of these little beauties will cleanse, repair, firm and moisturise your skin – all in under 20 seconds.

The waterless cleansing technology behind the treatment pads promises to infuse your skin with potent anti-aging, botanical ingredients. They don’t just save you time – they boost the health and radiance of your complexion too. The pads are suitable for normal to oily skin and come individually wrapped so that you can have one of these little miracle pads to hand whenever you fancy a freshen up on the go.


FAST FOUNDATION: Getting the perfect finish to your makeup doesn’t have to take hours. When time is short, you only need the minimum effort to look uber-glam.
The Product: SKII Airtouch Foundation, £85 (www.sk2.com)
With its unique spray applicator, the fabulous Airtouch Foundation by SK-II is the perfect way to get a flawless base without lots of blending and retouching. With a flick of a switch, it gives natural and even coverage by delivering a fine mist of colour across your face. It’s incredibly precise - the foundation particles are attracted to the moisture in your skin, so there’s no chance the speedy application with leave spots of foundation on your clothes.
You have to get used to doing things backwards with this foundation – you spray it on after you’ve applied your eye-shadow and blusher. Once you’ve mastered that, it’s a piece of cake. You’ll never use a liquid foundation again…


MAKEUP ON THE MOVE: For truly multi-purpose beauty products, turn to the Susan Posnick makeup collection. There are six lines in the range and each of them is a time saving two-in-one.
The Products: Susan Posnick The Coloreyedefine Multipurpose Liner and Shadow (£25) combines an angled pencil (to use as an eyeliner or to smudge as an all-over eye colour) and a complimenting dispensing shadow. The amount of shadow used can be controlled by pressing the sponge back into the lid. It’s available in seven different colour combinations.
Susan Posnick ColorForever (£21) is a double-sided lip colour and conditioner. The glossy lip stain is available in five shades, and is complemented by a plumping tinted conditioner on the other end, saving time and handbag space.

Tried & Tested: INDULGENT BATH PRODUCTS (15.08.08)

With the power to revilatise, relax, and calm, there's nothing better than a soak in a warm bath. We've tested 6 of the most indulgent products for pouring under that hot tap.


DR. WEIL FOR ORIGINS THE WAY OF THE BATH MATCHA TEA BODY SOAK, £35 (www.origins.co.uk)

What they say: This body soak infuses skin with vital antioxidants, vitamins and minerals while revitalising the flow of energy in your body, leaving skin healthy and glowing.
What we say: A large tub of green bath salts with a zingy citrus fragrance. Adding to the bath couldn’t be easier – simply tip a generous amount under a running tap. Simple but stylish packaging.
The Results: Being very much a shower person, I was sceptical that a bath could wake me up as effectively in the morning. However, I was willing to give this product a try as it promised to ‘revilatise’. The pot of salts reminded me of lemon sherbet, with a sweet but refreshing scent, and I couldn’t wait to climb into the pale yellow water. I didn’t lie back and relax as I was in a hurry before work, but I could feel myself quickly feeling more awake and energised. I loved the fact I could smell the scent on my skin all day.

Best for: Energising


THE BODY SHOP DIVINE CALM SERENITY MILK BATH POWDER, £9 (www.thebodyshop.co.uk)

What they say: A gloriously indulgent and soothing bath soak to help ease away tension and help restore a sense of inner peace and calm.
What we say: A pot of fine bath powder, which releases a richly-scented lavender mist when poured under a hot tap. The water turns milky white.
The Results: The product promised to ‘de-stress’ so I saved the salts for a Sunday evening when my mind was racing with things I needed to get done the following day at work. I stood over the bath as it ran and was pleasantly surprised by the delicious lavender fragrance that filled my bathroom. As soon as I stepped into the water, I felt more relaxed. I spent a good 20 minutes enjoying the fragrance – something I haven’t done for a long time. I definitely felt more relaxed when I got out – so much so that I decided on an early night and slept really deeply.
Best for: De-stressing

 


ELEMIS RETREAT BATH SOAK, £32 (www.timetospa.co.uk)
What they say: Harmonise your body and spirit with this hormone-balancing synergy of hand-picked calming Lavender, balancing Ylang Ylang, Mandarin and Marjoram.
What we say: A generous bottle of deliciously-scented foaming bubble bath. The pale yellow liquid pours easily and only a little is needed to create plenty of bubbles and scent your bathroom.
The Results: I knew this product was packed full of essential oils as soon as I took the lid off the bottle. The strongest scent was lavender, so I saved the bath for just before bedtime. I poured 3 capfuls as advised, which created the perfect amount of scented bubbles. The bath was totally relaxing and I slept really well that night! There was no oil on the surface of my skin, but I could definitely smell the essential oils. The bath soak is really luxurious and I can’t wait to use it again.
Best for: A restful sleep

SPA PARADISA RENEW YOUR SKIN BATH SOAK, £7 (www.debenhams.com)
What they say: With its bounty of antioxidants, this deluxe bath soak will protect and nourish the skin whilst the sweet-scent of coconut and frangipani will enchant the senses.
What we say: A white bath cream, which smells irresistible and creates a mountain of bubbles when poured under a warm running tap. Retro-style packaging that looks far more expensive than its price tag.
The Results: As soon as I smelt the gorgeous tropical fragrance, I couldn’t wait to run a bath. I was impressed with the amount of bubbles created from a quick pour. There were even bubbles left when I pulled the plug after a good 20 minute soak. I wouldn’t say that the fragrance was intense, but I could definitely smell traces of the sweet scent on my skin after getting out. I was really shocked when I was told the price of this product – the packaging looks luxury and I expected it to cost at least double. I’ll be stocking up and buying them as gifts for my friends too!
Best for: Budget Buy


LAIDBARE CHAMOMILE BATH SOAK, £12 (www.asos.com)
What they say: Revives mind, body, and soul. Chamomile is an all round skin healer, and calmer. Marshmallow and apricot extracts are super softening. Jajoba oil is rich and nourishing.
What we say: A richly fragrant bath cream, in simple white packaging. The thin texture makes pouring very easy. A small amount creates a large amount of bubbles.
The Results: I loved the unusual fragrance combination of chamomile, jajoba, and apricot works perfectly. As the bath run, the bathroom started to smell like a luxurious spa and I couldn’t wait to step in. The water and bubbles were sweetly scented and the perfume lingered on my skin long after the bath. I often find bubble baths quite drying on my sensitive skin, but was really impressed with how silky smooth and soft it felt after I dried off. I can’t wait to use it again!
Best for: Luxury fragrance


PEVONIA ANTI-STRESS BATH SALTS WITH ESSENTIAL OILS, £19.95 (01449 727000)
What they say: Enriched with essential oils, these mineralising bath salts soothe, balance and de-stress the skin.
What we say: A traditional pot of bath salts, with a spoon for scooping under a warm running tap. A relaxing fragrance of lavender, ylang ylang and tangerine essential oil.
The Results: I loved this pot of bath salts, which looked like they had come straight from Provence! The salts are inside a bag, as the pot itself is cardboard, which was quite fiddly, but I loved the fact a spoon was provided to measure the perfect amount into the water. As they dissolved, a gorgeous fragrance filled my bathroom. I felt really relaxed as I laid back in the bath and stayed much longer than I would usually allow myself. The best bit for me was the feeling of my skin when I go t out – it was far softer, which lasted all day.
Best for: Softening Skin


Breaking News: WAITING LIST OPENS UP MONTHS IN ADVANCE FOR VIBRATING ÔSCILLATION MASCARA BY LANCÔME
 (08.08.08)

The new vibrating Ôscillation Mascara by Lancôme… Never before has a beauty launch been met with such anticipation. With the launch date set for October, the soon-to-be must have mascara has already created such a stir that a waiting list has opened up months in advance.
Lancôme is widely regarded as the worldwide number one when is comes to mascaras and Ôscillation is set to be another huge success. Tagged as the ‘World’s first powermascara’, the wand is revved with 7000 vibrations per minute. The sleek design incorporates a button in the lid, which vibrates the wand when pressed. When smoothed towards the tip of the hair, lashes are coated perfectly.
The-Beauty-Pages.com has been lucky enough to receive a sneak preview and is very impressed. The vibrating wand snuggles neatly into the lash line and grips to coat them 360°. The result is dramatically full lashes, with absolutely no clumping. The mascara will cost £29.50 and is most definitely worth the wait. Make sure your name is down on the list.
On counter October 2008. For more information, visit www.lancome.co.uk

Salon Review: STUART PHILLIPS (26.07.08)


Location: 25 Monmouth Street, Covent Garden, London. 0207 3795304. www.stuartphillips.co.uk
The Salon: Take a step through the doors of Stuart Phillips’ salon and you could be forgiven for thinking you’d stumbled upon a glamorous new gallery or bar. The space is filled with plush leather armchairs, Swarovski-crystal sculptures and chandeliers, maple-wood furniture, and vast mirrors framed with the palest aqua-blue glass.
You may love the décor, but you will love the haircut even more – especially if you book in with the master himself. Once in his seat, Stuart Phillips will take time to understand your lifestyle and to access your skin tone and face shape, before creating the perfect easy-to-maintain cut. You’ll be in good company too, as Stuart boasts a long list of loyal celebrity clients – you may even be lucky enough to spot one or two of them if you allow yourself a quick scan around the salon.
It might be his name above the door, but Stuart is by no means the only experienced stylist in the salon. Book yourself an appointment with any one of his talented team (some who have worked alongside him since the salon’s opening 13 years ago) and you will be leaving with fabulous hair and vastly lifted spirits.
Services: Cut (from £47), colour (from £50), blow-dries (from £30), in-house treatments (from £15) styling for events (from £50), and specialised hair straightening (from £295). Appointments with Stuart Phillips start at £60, for Blow-Dry and Styling.

The Feature: LET’S GET TROPICAL (08.08.08)

Covering your dressing table with exotic beauty products is the perfect way to hold onto the last few weeks of summer. You might just be surprised by the benefits to your skin, hair and mood.

FRANGIPANI: The Frangipani flower is known as the ‘Flower of the Gods’ – one sniff and you’ll understand why. The rich intoxicating fragrance will instantly transport you to exotic shores, while the intensely hydrating benefits of the oil will leave your skin the softest it’s ever felt.

The oil is extracted from the delicate petals of the flower and is said to restore inner peace and harmony. It’s perfect for enjoying when you have time on your hands to fully unwind – a long indulgent bath or a night of utterly selfish pampering.
The Products

There is little more luxurious that Elemis Exotic Frangipani Monoi Moisture Melt, £29 for 100ml (www.timetospa.co.uk). The multi-tasking oil, which needs to be warmed in a bowl of hot water before use, can be applied to skin, hair or cuticles. The oil will nourish and soften dry areas, leaving skin and hair beautifully silky and smooth. For an extra treat, swap your usual shower gel for the recently launched Elemis Exotic Frangipani Monoi Bath & Shower Cream, £19 for 200ml (www.timetospa.co.uk).

Fill your home with the scent of Frangipani with the addictive Spa Paradisa Renew Your Skin Coconut and Frangipani Candle, £5 (www.debenhams.com). Forget the soggy British summer – a few minutes after lighting the wick, your living room will be transformed into a South Seas paradise. For this price, you don’t expect such a chunky candle or intensive smell – once discovered, we guarantee you will be buying them in bulk

POMEGRANATE: The pomegranate has enjoyed a surge in popularity over recent years, with fashionistas clambering to get their hands on cartons of its juice. With high levels of Vitamin C and more antioxidants than any other fruit, the beauty industry has quickly taken note of the trend by introducing the ingredient to countless beauty products.

Used regularly on skin, extracts of pomegranate will help to fight ageing and keep the complexion fresh and even. As a further benefit, the fruit’s sweet punchy fragrance is also a fabulous mood lifter.

The Products

Tommy Gun Pomegranate Shampoo and Conditioner, £4.99 each for 250ml (0845 6880188) are perfect for refreshing both your hair and your spirits. With packaging that looks far more luxury than their affordable price tag, the products combine to smooth, moisturise, and give natural suppleness to your hair. The heavenly fruity fragrance makes washing hair a real pleasure.

To restore vitality and radiance to your skin, choose Elemental Herbology Cell Food Protection and Repair Facial Serum, £38.50 for 30ml (www.spacenk.co.uk). The cocktail of antioxidants (including Pomegranate, Green Tea, and Vitamins A, C and E) work to stimulate collagen and elastin production, whilst helping to reduce the prevalence of dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. If that isn’t enough to convince you, the lightweight non-greasy texture and stunning fruity fragrance should put it top of your exotic beauty wish list.

COCONUT: South Pacific and Fiji Islanders have been using coconut oil for centuries to nourish and hydrate their skin and hair. It's well worth including a generous dose in your beauty regime.There’s something about the scent of coconut that instantly conjures up memories of sun-drenched holidays, pina colada cocktails, and sweetly scented sun lotion. Take a deep breath and you will almost feel the sand between your toes.

The Products

How long is it since you slathered one of The Body Shop’s famous body butters over your skin? We urge you to rediscover their charm. The Body Shop Coconut Body Butter, £12 for 200ml (www.thebodyshop.co.uk) is the ultimate tropical treat. The intensive creamy butter offers up to 24hours of hydration for your skin, leaving it feeling and looking silky smooth. The indulgent scent will take you straight to a distant beach.

Boots Coconut & Almond Oil Shampoo, £1.29 for 300ml (www.boots.com) is fabulously affordable and quickly transforms dry lifeless hair into soft glossy locks. The hydrating power of Coconut Oil will add an enviable shine – while the stunning scent will linger on hair until your next wash. It’s also perfect for taking on holiday to nurse sun-stressed hair back to health.

WATERMELON: If you’re looking for a natural solution to fine lines and wrinkles, watermelon is the perfect choice. Extracts of the fruit are rich in Vitamin C, carbohydrates and amino acids, which work powerfully together to fight ageing of the skin.

The scent and vibrant colour of watermelon has also lent inspiration to countless beauty products, which is no surprise considering that the merest hint of the sweet fragrance is powerfully reminiscent of summer.

The Products

What could be more irresisible than a product that gives radiant sun-kissed colour, a refreshing scent, and SPF30 sun protection? Get your hands on Korres Watermelon Lightweight Tinted Moisturiser SPF30, £18 for 30ml (0207 5816455). The lightweight oil-free cream comes in three colours, all giving medium coverage while allowing the skin to breathe. You’ll fall head over heels for the fresh watermelon fragrance.

Spa Paradisa Revive Your Skin Watermelon & Pink Grapefruit Shower Wash, £5 (www.debenhams.com) is the perfect everyday pick-me-up. In summer, the fragrance with refresh and revive. In colder months, just a few minutes in the shower using the product will transport you to an exotic shore. The gentle formula is perfect for even the most sensitive skins and leaves a subtle trace of the fragrance on skin.

GREEN TEA: Anti-oxidant rich Green Tea has quickly become the UK’s favourite healthy tipple of choice, so it isn’t surprising that there are huge benefits from including it generously in our beauty regime.

When used in skin care, extracts can help slow down the ageing process by protecting the body from free radicals. The subtle fragrance also has a positive effect on our mood, making us feel energised and refreshed.

The Products

For a deliciously fresh fragrance that will instantly transport you of exotic climes (even when the rain is lashing down in December), choose Elizabeth Arden Green Tea Lotus Eau de Toilette, £26 for 50ml (Elizabeth Arden counters nationwide). The scent is inspired by the unique perfume of the blossoming lotus, which combines beautifully with sparkling notes of tropical fruits and the warmth of green tea.

Bobbi Brown Intensive Skin Supplement, £36 for 30ml (www.bobbibrown.co.uk) includes extracts of green tea to act as an antioxidant for the skin. Counteracting the daily damage caused by environmental factors such as smoke and pollution, the intensive creamy serum acts as an emergency pick-me-up for skin in need of serious attention. Save it for days when your skin looks lacklustre or dull – you’ll soon notice your usual rosy glow returning.


BERGAMOT: The fresh lemony fragrance of bergamot oil has been used since the 16th century in Italy to calm and balance the mind. The oil has a slightly more subtle scent than other citrus fruits, much like the air of a sundrenched lemon grove.

Bergamot is said to be hugely beneficial when used in beauty products, helping to soothe and return skin to its former radiance.

The Products

Wishing you were soaking up the sun in the Mediterranean? Generously apply Organic Surge Tropical Bergamot Body Lotion, £5.99 (www.organicsurge.com) and you will be half way there. The hydrating essential oils work miracles on rough dry skin, leaving your body feeling silky smooth and glowing with a subtle sheen. Better still, it’s totally organic.

Place bottles of Neal’s Yard Garden Mint and Bergamot Hand Wash and Hand Lotion, both £10 for 200ml (www.nealsyardremedies.com) by your sink and you wont ever want to go back to soap and water. The luxurious scent and hydrating formulas make washing hands a real pleasure.

Tried & Tested: HAND CREAMS (08.08.08)


They say you can tell a woman's age by her hands, but they are so often forgotten in our skin care regime. We've tested 6 products that promise to keep hands softer, suppler, and younger-looking.



CLINIQUE WATER THERAPY MOISTURE GLOVE HAND CREAM, £15 for 100ml (www.clinique.co.uk)
What they say: Helps re-establish skin’s moisture barrier, boosting skin’s ability to stay moisturised and protected. Provides a non-greasy, long lasting protective barrier against external factors that dry hands and cuticles.

What we say: A classic green squeezable tube containing a thick creamy hand cream. There is no fragrance or colour.

The Results: I have sensitive skin and am always wary about using new products, so was pleased to see that this hand cream is 100% fragrance free. I thought the cream was incredibly gentle, more like a soothing lotion than a rich moisturiser, but my hands still felt incredibly smooth after using it. I could still feel the cream on my hands after several minutes, but it wasn’t at all greasy and made my skin feel really supple. I’ll definitely be keeping a tube of this on my desk in the future.
Best for: Sensitive skin

ELIZABETH ARDEN EIGHT HOUR CREAM INTENSIVE MOISTURISING HAND TREATMENT, £20 for 75ml (Elizabeth Arden Counters Nationwide)
What they say: This fast-absorbing gel cream for the hands moisturises for up to eight hours. Soothing emollients smooth and soften rough, weather-exposed skin. Signs of dryness and cracking are reversed so hands feel soft and touchable.

What we say: In classic Elizabeth Arden packaging, this tube of hand cream instantly has a luxurious feel. The rich cream has the classic Eight Hour scent and absorbs quickly into hands.

The Results: I open a lot of packages at work and my hands have been left feeling incredibly dry, with cracking in the roughest parts. I’ve tried many other hand creams, but none have solved the problem. I was seriously impressed with this product. I wasn’t sure about the strong scent initially, but this was quickly forgotten when I noticed the gorgeous silky feeling of my hands. The dry areas were instantly soothed and softened. This is my new handbag essential!

Best for: Repairing hands

ORIGINS MAKE A DIFFERENCE REJUVENATING HAND TREATMENT, £15 for 75ml (www.origins.co.uk)
What they say: Dry skin resumes a softer, brighter, more evenly toned, more youthfully textured look and feel. Leaves an elegant, silky feel on skin. Forms an undetectable barrier.

What we say: Beneath the simple white packaging lies a truly luxurious hand cream. The product has a thick white creamy texture and an uplifting lemony scent.

The Results: I’ve used a lot of hand creams in the past and wasn’t expecting this product to be any different. Luckily for my (constantly dry) hands, I was proved wrong. I loved the fragrance of this product, which smelt more like a rich body lotion than a hand cream. It took a while for the cream to absorb into my hands, but they immediately felt softer. I also noticed a subtle sheen on the skin, but they didn’t feel at all greasy. I really enjoy using the product and know I’ll be treating my hands more regularly than I used to.
Best for: Luxury hand care

ELEMIS PRO-COLLAGEN HAND AND NAIL CREAM, £29 for 100ml (www.timetospa.co.uk)
What they say: Indulge yourself daily with this intensely hydrating anti-ageing hand and nail cream formulated with powerful anti-oxidants to protect against external factors which dry the hands and cuticles.

What we say: A lightweight hand cream with the fresh uplifting scent of aloe vera. The stylish blue and silver packaging is typical of the luxury brand.

The Results: I’ve started to notice age spots on my hands and I’ve been looking for a hand cream that will help to fade them. I don’t like thick and greasy hand creams, so was pleasantly surprised by the lightweight cream that sunk quickly into my skin. My hands felt instantly softer and suppler, with even the driest patches around my cuticles feeling much smoother. I’ve been using it religiously for a month now and, although the change is subtle, the age spots have definitely started to fade.
Best for: Anti-ageing hand care

DARPHIN AROMATIC HAND CREAM, £19 for 75ml (0870 0342556)
What they say: This moisturising formula protects your hands from daily aggressions and prevents visible signs of ageing skin. Readily absorbed into the skin, this cream diminishes fine lines and dark spots, and fortifies nails leaving hands feeling soft and smooth.

What we say: A rich cream packed with essential oils to soften your hands. Stylish white packaging and a very subtle almond fragrance.

The Results: For me, a hand cream needs to condition my nails as well as softening dry skin. I read on the packaging that this product would fortify nails, so was excited about giving it a go. I found the cream hard to squeeze out from the tube, but loved the rich creamy texture. I massaged the cream into my nails and cuticles and noticed straight away that they had a gorgeous sheen. After using the product religiously for a week, my nails are feeling stronger and my hands have never felt softer.

Best for: Hand and nail care

THE BODY SHOP ALMOND OIL DAILY HAND & NAIL CREAM, £8 for 100ml (www.thebodyshop.co.uk)
What they say: With added Community Trade shea butter, soya oil and beeswax, all you see and feel are velvety-soft hands.

What we say: A thick creamy hand lotion in a simple squeezable tube, with the strong sweet scent of almond oil. Absorbs almost instantly into skin.

The Results: You need to love the smell of almonds to use this hand cream! Luckily I adore sweet fragrances, so was happy to slather it onto my hands several times a day. I liked the thick texture of the cream and was impressed by how quickly it disappeared into my skin, leaving absolutely no greasiness. The rough skin on my hands is now feeling silky smooth. For the price, I thought this was brilliant value and I would definitely buy it again.

Best for: Budget Buy

Treatment Review: GAMILA SECRET BODY TREATMENT, URBAN RETREAT
(18.07.08)

What it promises: Based on the ancient ritual of Turkish Hammam, this pampering body treatment combines massage and steam with the unique cleansing and restorative effects of the Gamila Secret Treatment Bar (a 100% natural solid slab packed with a moisturising blend of vegetable oils, Shea Butter and hand-picked herbs). The treatment promises to revive and invigorate the body’s systems, while promoting the skin’s self-healing qualities.
What happens: The treatment took place in the Urban Retreat at Harrods; a tranquil haven on the fifth floor of the bustling iconic store. As I lay down on the white-towelled bed and closed my eyes to the halcyon soundtrack, shopping was suddenly the last thing on my mind. The therapist began the treatment by dry brushing my body to intensely exfoliate the skin. This was followed by an invigorating massage using the lather of the Gamila Secret Treatment Bar, whilst a gentle steam cocooned my body in warmth. After cleansing the skin with hot mitts, the therapist finished the treatment with a generous application of the Gamila Secret Body Balm.

Results: It was a combination of the luxurious location, the inspiring Gamila story (of brand creator Savta Gamila hand-pressing the bars in the hills of Galilee, Israel), and the invigorating treatment itself that had me skipping out the Urban Retreat with a new-found energy. I allowed the rich body balm to sink in for the rest of the day and overnight, waking up to find silky-smooth skin that seemed to literally be glowing with health. The treatment represents fabulous value for money and I will definitely be back. It’s the perfect solution to combating dry skin, preparing for a fake-tanning treatment, or boosting flagging energy levels.
Price: £30 for 30 minutes

Location: Urban Retreat Nationwide (visit www.urbanretreat.co.uk for your nearest location).


News: SUPERDRUG LAUNCHES THE UK'S FIRST MEN'S MAKEUP RANGE 
(08.08.08)

He steals your moisturiser, borrows your cleanser, and uses your fake tan - it was only a matter of time before he started wearing makeup…
Inspired by the recent explosion of the male grooming market, Superdrug have this week launched the UK’s first ever makeup range for men by TAXI London. The store says ‘men are more obsessed with their appearance than ever before. There’s no longer any pain in being seen to be vain, there is a real market for these products.’
Makeup for men is no longer restricted to goth bands – think Johnny Depp rather than Marilyn Manson. The TAXI London range includes Guy-Liner (£6.50), a chunky eyeliner designed especially for men with big hands and Manscara (£6.50). Joining this dynamic duo in September will be Concealer (£6.50) and Lip Balm (£5)
The range went onto Superdrug shelves nationwide yesterday. www.superdrug.co.uk

The Feature: TREAT YOUR FEET (08.08.08)
They are our unsung heroes - carrying us through our days with barely a grumble. But with heels higher than ever for Autumn/Winter 08 there has never been a better time to start soothing and spoiling our soles.

SOAK IN STYLE: Whether you are stepping out in Christian Louboutin’s vertigo-inducing stilettos, towering in at over six inches, or raising your game with Louis Vuitton’s skyscraper super-wedge, a whole inch more, your feet need some serious preparation and pampering. That is why we have put together the perfect pedicure guide to make sure you hot-foot it in style.
Begin by soaking your feet in a basin of warm water and add a few drops of Margaret Dabbs Hydrating Foot Soak with Emu Oil, £25 (www.margaretdabbs.co.uk) to soothe, moisturise and really relax. Origins Foot Rest Soothing Foot Soak, £16.50 (0800 731 4039), is made with Australian eucalyptus oil and mint and is incredibly revitalising, especially as you can sit back and breathe in the refreshing vapours.
It is also definitely worth investing in a good foot spa. One of the best is Champneys Oasis, £59.79 (0845 640 3030) which has a host of features including a soothing sea grass insert which massages your feet through the bubbling jets and a detachable pedicure tool to really get to work on toughened toes.

SCRUB-A-DUB-DUB: Slough-off those dead skin cells with a good exfoliant tough enough to deal with really hard skin –The Body Shop Peppermint Soothing Foot Scrub, £7 (www.thebodyshop.co.uk) contains finely-ground lava rock to really soften the thickest skins.
After rinsing, dry your feet and file with Space NK Stainless Steel Foot File, £30 (020 8740 2085) paying particular attention to the ball and heel. You will find that unlike cheaper plastic styles it won’t snap under the most vigorous pressure.

SOFTLY DOES IT: Next slather the feet in a rich moisturiser saturated with AHA’s to maximise exfoliation. Aveda Foot Relief, £15.50 (www.aveda.co.uk) uses a combination of active herbs, exfoliating foot acids and jojoba oil to soothe and invigorate tired tootsies, it rubs in really easily too. MD Formulations Pedicreme, £26 (0870 850 6655) is also very effective as it contains glycolic acid and an intensive moisturiser to really tackle toughened skin especially on the heel.
For a spring in your step, choose Origins Step Lively Energising Foot Cream (£17, www.origins.co.uk). Exhilarating Mentha Piperita and stimulating Wntergreen work to channel energy through your body, while hydrating Rose Hip Oil leaves feet feeling silky smooth.
Once smothered, slip on Bliss Softening Socks, £36 (www.blisslondon.co.uk) lined in their special foot salve, preferably overnight to get the most from your moisturiser. Or you could just wrap your feet in clingfilm, run towels under the hot tap and then cocoon your feet for ten minutes.

SHAPE UP: As far back as 4000BC, noblemen in southern Babylonia used solid-gold tools to perform the first pedicures. Tweezerman Manicure Gooming Kit, £45 (www.hqhair.com) may be stainless steel rather than solid gilt but it still has everything you need. The metal pusher is much more effective than the traditional orange stick for lifting cuticles, and the handy Squeeze and Snip Trimmer is great for removing any awkward hangnails.
When filing your nails always make sure it is straight across never round, to avoid in-growing toenail. Use Margaret Dabbs Glass File, £10 (www.margaretdabbs.co.uk) – it gives a much smoother finish than a standard style. Then finally buff to a glossy “wet-look” shine with the excellent Leighton Denny 4-in-1 Nail Buffer, £5 (0845 862 0515).

SPIT & POLISH: Searing shades are one of the hottest trends for summer and what better canvas to experiment than your feet. Neon or acid brights look particularly striking next to glistening bronzed skin.
Start by removing all traces of oil or varnish with Leighton Denny Essential Remover, £5 (0845 862 0515) which also acts as a moisturiser.
Paint nails with three clean strokes, remembering to sweep along the nail edge to prevent chipping. For all-round durability, Essie nail varnish is widely regarded as the best on the market and its vibrant red Turning Heads, £8.50 (www.nailsbymail.co.uk) is a modern varnish classic. They have also just brought out a great range of sassy neon hues to try and the Nail Corrector Pen, £11.99 (www.nailsbymail.co.uk) is perfect for a really professional finish.
For a shade to suit all skin tones, team Leighton Denny Copycat - a cute candy pink – with their Crystal Finish Fast Drying Topcoat, both £10 (0845 8620515) which gives a great gem-like gloss,
Finally, to protect your nails from peeling with constant varnish, keep Nailtiques Formula 2 Plus, £17.25 (01827 280 080) on hand for an instant protein fix to strengthen and prevent splitting.

FOR A PROFESSIONAL TOUCH: Dubbed the Queen of feet, Margaret Dabbs is London’s premier podiatrist. She fuses both health and beauty to really get to the root of problem feet. Her ultimate Oxygen Foot Treatment eradicates signs of dehydrated skin, removing hard toughened areas, including treating cracked heels as well as yellowing nails to really transform your feet rather than just paint over the cracks. (1 hour, from £135, 020 7487 5510)
Leighton Denny, manicure and pedicurist to the stars, offers a luxurious feet treatment at the lavish Agua spa at The Sanderson hotel in London. Feet are soaked and scrubbed, nails are shaped and finally painted with Leighton’s extensive range of colours so that your feet are left looking A-list perfect.
(1 hour deluxe pedicure, £55, www.sandersonlondon.com)
The Beauty Works West Sole Food pedicure is simply made for stylish girls always on their feet. It includes the basic file, buff, shape, cuticle work, scrub and massage with aromatic oils and when you are sitting in the special pedi-throne, grazing on fruit and nuts, watching Sex and the City you feel so Carrie Bradshaw. The pedicure really lasts too. (1 hour, £44, www.beautyworkswest.com)

Tried & Tested: NEW EYESHADOW PALETTES (08.08.08)
There's little more irresistible than a new eyeshadow palette - and with so many recent launches, we are spoilt for choice. We try 6 of the best.

CLARINS COLOUR QUARTET FOR EYES IN SO CHIC, £26 (www.clarins.co.uk)

First impressions: A stylish silver and red compact containing four colours, a mirror, and an applicator. All colours have a touch of subtle sparkle.
Results: The first thing I noticed about this palette (apart from its gorgeous packaging) was how easy it was to blend the colours. They literally smoothed into each other, making appliance an absolute doddle. I loved the pearly white colour, which worked well during the day on its own. For evening, I just add a touch of the sparkly black, bronze or purple and I’m ready to step out on the town! The compact is small enough to fit into the tiniest handbag, making the palette perfect for carrying with you all day and evening.
Best for: Day to evening

THE BODY SHOP DUO SHADOW IN DUO OMBRES REGARD, £12 (www.the-body-shop.com)

First impressions: A gold metallic eyeshadow duo, with lots of shimmer for an evening out. Simple clear packaging. No applicator or mirror.
Results: I have dark skin, which is complimented by warm gold colours so was very keen to try this palette. The first time I used it, I didn’t have an applicator so used my finger to gently smooth the lighter colour over my eyelids. It was surprisingly easy to blend, giving a lovely even coverage. I then applied a touch of the darker colour to the corner of each eye, which I thought looked great. I’ve used an applicator every time since, which has made it even easier to apply. I’m really impressed with this – the price is brilliant and I love the subtle shimmer. I can’t wait for the next big night out so I can show it off!
Best for: Darker Skin Tones

DR HAUSCHKA STONE COLOURS COLLECTION EYESHADOW, £28 (www.drhauschka.co.uk)

First impressions: A sleek black compact, with mirror and applicator, containing four neutral matte shades.
Results: I don’t usually wear much makeup to work, but was happy to try this palette as the tones are quite subtle and neutral. I have quite pale translucent eyelids, so started by applying the light cream colour to act as a base. I was really impressed by how smoothly it applied. Depending on my mood and the occasion, I then blended the other three colours. To be honest, they were all subtle enough for the office – even the darkest shade, a browny grey. Applying my makeup in the morning has become a real pleasure and I’m delighted that I’ve discovered this product.
Best for: Everyday use

URBAN DECAY FORESHADOW PALETTE, £13.50 (www.asos.com)

First impressions: Four colours presented in a purple faux-suede compact, with mirror and brush applicator.
Results: I wear makeup every day, so need something quite high-impact to take my look from day to evening. The dark smoky colours, mixed with the brighter green and sparkly gold, make this the perfect palette for me. I found the texture quite powdery, which meant I needed to apply a few layers to get the level of colour I wanted, but I loved the brush applicator as it made blending really easy. The darkest shade – a sparkly black called oil slick – acted well as a liner too. I’ll definitely be using this palette before my next big night out.
Best for: A night out

CLINIQUE COLOUR SURGE EYESHADOW TRIO IN KISS OF PINKS, £17 (www.clinique.co.uk)
First impressions: A trio of tempting colours with a touch of shimmer, presented in a sleek stylish compact with mirror and applicator.
Results: I loved the way I could wear each colour separately for a classic daytime look - or I could blend them together for a more defined evening look. The eyeshadow had a gorgeous silky texture that was really easy to apply and blend with the brush applicator. There was a touch of shimmer in each colour, but this was really subtle and definitely not too much for office wear. The eyeshadow lasted longer than others I’ve tried – it was still visible after a whole day in the office, which I was really impressed with.
Best for: Great staying power.

POP BEAUTY EYE CAKE IN BRIGHT PINK, £12 (www.asos.com)
First impressions: A chunky silver pot containing a generous supply of pink-hued eyeshadows, plus a dark grey for lining eyes. No applicator or mirror.
Results: I love the funky packaging of this eyeshadow and as soon as I saw the rows of pink colours I couldn’t wait to try it out. I used my finger, as there was no applicator, but found it rubbed in very smoothly. The colours look much brighter in the pot – they actually look quite light and subtle on the eye, but you can increase the intensity with extra layers. I found it hard to use the dark grey colour as a liner without an applicator, but loved the way it accentuated my eyes if I used it on the outer corners. This is definitely a palette for lighter skin tones, it’s quite delicate, so might be lost on darker skin tones.
Best for: Lighter Skin Tones

Breaking News: ELIZABETH ARDEN CELEBRATES 08.08.08 WITH THOUSANDS OF FREE EIGHT HOUR SAMPLES (01.08.08)

08.08.08. Mark that date firmly in your diary. Elizabeth Arden has chosen the unique moment in time to celebrate their iconic Eight Hour Cream and will be giving away thousands of Eight Hour samples from their counters nationwide.
Originally formulated by Elizabeth Arden in 1930, Eight Hour Cream became an instant and overwhelming success. The revolutionary and award-winning formula of petrolatum, beta-hydroxy acid (a skin-soothing anti-inflammatory) and vitamin E has not been changed since it’s creation over 75 years ago.
An ‘it’ bag all-rounder, eight hour cream works on everything from cracked lips to cuticles, insect bites and windburn, and we love it as a gloss for lips, lashes and cheeks. More recently, the winning Eight Hour formula has been used to create a range of skin care products for lips, hands and body, with prices starting from just £16.
Head down to your nearest Elizabeth Arden counter on Friday 8th August to take advantage of the sample-fest. We’ll be at the front of the queue…

Breaking News: SARAH JESSICA PARKER LAUNCHES NEW FRAGRANCE (25.07.08) 

After the resounding success that was Sex & the City’s big screen debut, you’d be forgiven for thinking Sarah Jessica Parker would be happy to sit back and enjoy that pay cheque. Not so. Instead of resting on her Balenciaga-clad laurels, she’s back this month to launch her latest fragrance – and we predict it will be every bit as successful as her previous two offerings.
A feminine floral fragrance with a delicious tropical twist, Covet Pure Bloom blends purple plum, coconut water, amber and jasmine with the unusual royal Indonesian pikake flower. The result is a unique and seriously desirable scent - spot-on for sultry summer evenings.
The bottle’s just as gorgeous, too. In a stunning jewel-like purple, complete with a gold toned rope choker around the neck, it’s stylish, chic and elegant – just like our favourite fashionista herself.
Sarah Jessica Parker Covet Pure Bloom costs £23 for 30ml and is available from 30th July 2008 at Boots, leading department stores and pharmacies nationwide.

Spa Review: SKIN SPA, THE SANCTUARY (11.07.08)
Location: Skin Spa, The Sanctuary, Covent Garden, London. 
www.thesanctuary.co.uk/skinspa 0207 4205118
Facilities: The Skin Spa is the latest addition to London’s famous ladies-only day spa, The Sanctuary. It has its own reception desk and deals with bookings independently –appointments don’t include access to the main spa, so leave the bikini at home. Each appointment begins with a Skin Analysis – a fascinating insight into the condition of your skin. A camera is used to photograph the skin, capturing images 2mm beneath the surface to establish blood, melanin, sun damage, collagen, and wrinkle levels. A suitable treatment is recommended from a list that includes glycolic and herbal peels, microdermabrasion, and a range of anti-ageing or repairing facials. Photographs from your consultation will be handed over as you leave – perfect motivation for continuing your new skin care regime at home!
Ambience: With whitewashed walls, bright lighting, and technically-advanced equipment sat in every corner, the Skin Spa didn’t feel dissimilar to a swish private clinic. Staff were warm, polite, and highly-qualified.
Treatment Tested:
Microdermabrasion Facial, £75 for 50 mins
My therapist recommended a microdermabrasion facial to improve the skin’s texture and elasticity. The sensation of the tiny crystals being blasted onto the skin was a new one for me, but not wholly unpleasant. Redness was instantly soothed with a hydrating gel mask, while I enjoyed a heavenly head, neck and shoulder massage. Afterwards, my skin was glowing with health and felt incredibly smooth to the touch. I left the Skin Spa with expertly applied mineral make-up, ready to hit the bars of Covent Garden

The Feature: ROSE BEAUTY (01.08.08)
Luxurious, pampering, and hugely beneficial to the skin. Your latest beauty addiction is set to become the rose.

SKIN CARE: Bored with your current skin care routine? Add a luxury touch to your dressing table with the help of the humble rose.
Rose extracts are said to aid skin regeneration, reduce redness, help to erase fine lines, and to reduce the signs of uneven pigmentation. Add to that the soothing and uplifting effects of the sweet floral fragrance and you won’t be fishing that unscented moisturiser back out of the drawer any time soon.
The Products
- Neal’s Yard Remedies Rose Formula Anti-Oxidant Facial Mask, £20 for 60ml (www.nealsyardremedies.com) is the kind of product you will be blocking off time in the diary to use. Its delicious creamy texture and divine scent is reason enough to give it a try. If you need any further excuses, the mask promises to brighten the skin by gently clearing dead cells to reveal fresh, radiant skin underneath.
- Adding a facial oil to your skin care routine might seem a luxury, but it makes perfect beauty sense. Darphin Rose Aromatic Care, £38 for 15ml (0870 034 2566) is our favourite product from the brand’s famous Aromatic Care line. Simply massage 5 drops into skin before applying your moisturising cream and you will be thanked with a radiant glowing complexion.
- Dr Hauschka Day Rose Cream, £20 for 30ml (www.drhauschka.co.uk) is a rich skin-pampering moisturiser for everyday use. With extracts of biodynamically grown rose flowers and rose hips, the cream helps to maintain hydration levels while also soothing and nurturing the skin. You’ll fall in love with its velvety texture and addictively sweet floral scent.

BODY CARE: There is nothing more indulgent than lashings of rose-scented body lotion or oil. Start your day with a generous application and your skin will be left silky smooth, richly hydrated, and laced with an addictively sweet and enduring scent.
For the biggest benefits, look out for ultra-moisturising ingredients like shea butter and almond oil, which will work in partnership with the rose extracts to keep your skin looking and feeling fabulous.
The Products
- One sniff of Aromatherapy Associates Renew Rose Body Cream, £16.50 for 200ml (www.aromatherapyassociates.com) and you’ll be clearing space on your dressing table. For such a richly hydrating moisturiser (combining damask rose water and shea butter) the texture is surprisingly lightweight and instantly absorbed. Use it regularly and generously for radiant glowing skin.
- The best body oils are ultra-light, silky smooth, and non-greasy. ILA Body Oil for Vital Energy, £34 for 100ml (www.ila-spa.com) is just that. The addictive blend of juniper berry, rose geranium, and organic rosehip seed oil absorbs instantly, leaving skin with a subtle sheen and silky smooth texture. The scent is uplifting, energising, and delicious.
- L’Occitane Rose Pearlescent Cream, £25 for 200ml (www.loccitane.com) perfectly captures the scent of a freshly picked rose. It’s impossible not to delve your hand into the gorgeous vintage-style pot and slather the rich indulgent cream onto every inch of skin. If you do, you will be rewarded with a subtle dusting of pearl-coloured shimmer.

SHOWER: The words ‘shower’ and ‘indulgent’ don’t usually sit in the same sentence, but it’s a great time to shut out the world and spend time pampering your skin and your senses.
Rose shower products are luxurious, indulgent, and uplifting. Deeply hydrating body oils are mixed with the rich rose extracts to leave your skin looking as fabulous as it feels.
The Products
- Every shower will feel like a trip to a sumptuous spa with REN Moroccan Rose Otto Body Wash, £16 for 200ml (www.renskincare.com). The indulgent body wash is formulated with the world’s most expensive and revered essential oil: Moroccan Rose Otto Oil, which is distilled from petals harvested at dawn. Especially beneficial to dry and sensitive skins, the body wash also has powerful stress-relieving and soothing properties. You’ll be hard pushed to switch off that shower.
- Heard about the brand Rituals yet? If not, you definitely need to splash out on Rituals Shanti Shower: Indian Rose & Sweet Almond Oil, £7.90 (www.rituals.com). The Dutch company has just landed in the UK, selling a wide selection of irresistible natural beauty products. The shower paste combines the ancient Ayurvedic ingredients Sweet Almond Oil and Indian Rose to balance the moisture of your skin. You will feel deeply moisturised and incredibly pampered. Not bad for a few minutes in the shower…

BATH: Long before the days of luxury spa treatments and innovative skin care products, women understood the benefits of including roses in their beauty regime. Well-to-do ladies in Roman times literally bathed in roses, filling their bath water with liberal handfuls of the fragrant petals.
Take inspiration from those beauty savvy ancient ladies, by getting back to basics with a luxurious rose-scented bath. No need to head to the florist, simply get your hands on one of these self-indulgent products and pour generously…
The Products
- Rose & Co. Rose Petal Bath & Shower Cream, £8 for 225ml (01827 253 328) is a lavish bubble bath spiked with the pure oil of roses. Imagine sticking your nose deep inside the blooms of a freshly picked rose, as that the exact fragrance you will be inhaling as you lie back in a tub of this stuff. Try it once and you will rediscover the relaxing power of a long hot soak.
- If your mind shifts to musty old-fashioned bathrooms when we mention bath salts, you need to have a dramatic rethink. It’s time to treat yourself to the truly luxe Abahna Himalayan Cedarwood and Rose Otto Bath Salts, £25 for 400g (www.musthave.co.uk). Pour a handful under a running tap and a sensual woody floral aroma will flood into your bathroom. We guarantee you will be converted.
FRAGRANCE: As the symbol of romance, it’s no surprise that rose extracts are an ingredient in some of the most romantic and alluring perfumes. But using the flower for the purposes of seduction is no modern ploy – Cleopatra is said to have romanced Marc Antony by carpeting her floor in a thick layer of rose petals.
The fragrance of a rose is said to reduce anxiety and promote feelings of wellbeing. Spray it generously onto skin each morning and getting through even the most stressful day will be a breeze…
The Products
- Missoni Rosa, £45 for 75ml (08700342566) is a stylish ultra-feminine perfume that balances the floral fragrances of dewy rose with delicate peony. This is a grown-up and sophisticated scent, which is perfect for creating a lasting impression on a night out.
- For daywear, choose Pixi Rose Eau De Parfum, £26 for 30ml (www.pixibeauty.com). The soft powdery scent is clean and refreshing, whilst also being deeply feminine and luxurious. Keep a bottle on your desk at work and you’ll be reaching for it when the going gets tough.
- The perfect handbag scent is The Body Shop Tea Rose Perfume Oil, £6.50 for 15ml (www.thebodyshop.co.uk). The delicate floral fragrance has notes of rose, violet, and geranium. Being a perfume oil, the classic fragrance is incredibly long lasting.

LITTLE LUXURIES: In terms of beauty, there are some things we simply couldn’t live without… And then there are the things that we just want – the little luxuries that tempt us from within their packaging and urge us to take them home. Those luxuries are a bit like roses –we don’t need them, but we certainly want them to sit on our mantelpiece looking pretty and would have them there 365 days a year if we could.
There are some rose products that don’t seem to fit in our other categories, but we bet you still want them…
The Products
- LUSH Amandopondo, £2.35 for 100g (www.lush.co.uk) should be top of any bath-lover’s wish list. It might not be practical to use one every night (and you wouldn’t love them as much if you did) but this gorgeous creamy pillow of solid bubble bath is a little luxury you wont want to miss out on. Crumble under a running tap for a mountain of soft bubbles packed with luxurious rose absolute and a twist of lemon and orange oils.
- For a seriously opulent pampering session, light a Diptyque Roses Candle, £32 (www.beautique.com). The candle brand isn’t listed on every fashionista’s wish list for no reason – each votive will burn for up to 60 hours, creating a richly fragrant ambience in your home. Light the wick, run a bath, and relax in the deeply calming perfume of rose blooms.
- Chanel Powder Blush in Tea Rose, £24 (0207 4933836) is no ordinary blusher. Everything about it screams luxury – the silky light texture, flattering colour, lavish packaging, and the delicious scent of rose as you dust it across your cheekbones. This is one product you aren’t going to want to share with your friends.

Tried & Tested: FACIAL EXFOLIATORS (01.08.08)
We should all be using a facial exfoliator to keep our complexion looking fresh and clear. But with so many on the market, which should we choose? We gave 6 products to our testing panel and asked them to report the results.

ESPA REFINING SKIN POLISH, £21 for 55ml (www.espaonline.com)
What they say: A gentle exfoliator, which clarifies, refines and helps renew tired, dull complexions. Plankton is a naturally rich source of proteins, vitamins and minerals and is deeply nourishing. The softly exfoliating action of the rounded fossilised earth particles is non-abrasive yet powerful enough to remove the dull outer layer of skin cells. Skin will be left looking brighter and more finely textured.
What we say: Chic, stylish packaging containing a creamy white scrub with only the lightest of exfoliating granules. The texture is so thick you may even mistake it for a rich moisturising cream. It has pleasant subtle fragrance.
The Results: I’ve been quite stressed at work recently and my skin has started to suffer from the rushed meals and late nights. It needed something to brighten it up, so it was the perfect time to try this product. I loved using the rich creamy scrub, which was both gentle and moisturising. I’ve been using it for three weeks now and my skin has shown a real improvement. It sounds clichéd, but it almost is glowing with health.
Best for: Quick results

THE BODY SHOP VITAMIN E CREAM EXFOLIATOR, £7 for 75ml (www.thebodyshop.co.uk)
What they say: A light and creamy facial scrub to gently exfoliate without irritating the skin, leaving it feeling smooth, soft and refined.
What we say: On first inspection, this pale pink scrub looks like a rich moisturising cream. It’s only on closer inspection that you notice tiny red jojoba beads that work as an exfoliator. The scent is fresh and floral.
The results: My dry skin often feels tight and uncomfortable after using scrubs. I loved the thick creamy texture of this product, which felt gentle on my skin, and didn’t feel any of that usual tightness. My skin felt smoother, softer, and totally injected with moisture. The price is brilliant too. I’m a big fan and will definitely keep using this product.
Best for: Dry Skins

CLINIQUE 7 DAY SCRUB CREAM, £15 for 100ML (www.clinique.co.uk)
What they say: Skin looks translucent, clearer brighter; takes edge off tiny lines. Better stimulation; promotes even skin tone. Helps control oil-related problems. Gives a light reflecting look to mature skin. Allows better makeup application. Moisturiser absorbs more easily. Will not scratch. Gentle; leaves no residue on skin after rinsing. De-flakes, polishes, clears pores.
What we say: A white creamy-textured scrub with no fragrance, in classic green Clinique packaging. The product feels smooth to the touch – the exfoliating granules only detectable when you start to rub into skin. The scrub is designed to be used every day.
The Results: I have very sensitive skin and was dubious about trying an exfoliator that needed to be used on a daily basis. However, after trying this product, I’m pleasantly surprised. The gentle formula caused absolutely no irritation to my skin and left it feeling smoother than ever before. I’ve noticed a real improvement in the condition of my skin – fewer blemishes and a far more even skin tone. It’s become a regular part of my daily skin care routine.
Best for: Sensitive skin

CRYSTAL CLEAR SKINCARE OXYGEN FACE POLISH, £24 for 100ml (08705 934 934)
What they say: A polish that leaves the skin cleansed, smoothed, revitalised and oxygenated for a perfectly polished look. Jojoba Beads gently and effectively smooth and exfoliate the skin surface, while a new, biotechnologically-derived agent called Oxylastil(r) stimulates cell turnover and repairs and restructures the skin.
What we say: A pale blue gel-based scrub, presenting in sleek and stylish monochrome packaging. The fresh scent is evocative of fresh air or the ocean and includes tiny jojoba beads for gentle exfoliation.
The Results: I have problem skin and generally always have one or two blemishes – I’ve never been able to find a face scrub that is gentle enough for the delicate state of my skin, but powerful enough to make a difference. In this product, I think I have found it. The gel was refreshing and soothing, while the small exfoliators have made a massive improvement to the surface of the skin.
Best for: Problem or Delicate Skin

OLE HENRIKSEN NEW BEGINNING SCRUB, £25 for 50g (Harvey Nichols Nationwide)
What they say: A smoothing and oxygenating exfoliant with tea tree oil. Both sensitive and dry skin will embrace the smoothing and oxygenating benefits of the silky textured scrub filled with jajoba wax, avocado oil and tee tree oil.
What we say: Packaging doesn’t get more stylish than Ole Henriksen and this chunky pot is no exception. The light creamy scrub feels silky smooth to the touch and has the fresh scent of tea tree oil.
The Results: I liked the creamy texture of this scrub, which felt gentle on my face and left it feeling smooth and moisturised. After rinsing, my skin felt cooled and refreshed – a welcome change, as usually my skin is irritated after exfoliating. The instructions say to use the scrub 3 times a week and I will definitely be doing so – I love the new softness to my skin, which lasts for days after using it.
Best for: Refreshing skin

INA CRYSTALS WHITE GOLD GLOW FACE WASH, £22 for 100ml (www.spacenk.com)
What they say: A rich, creamy, gentle facial cleanser that revitalises, smoothes and softens the skin whilst protecting it from dryness. Natural ground loofah gently exfoliates the skin and helps to lift away impurities to leave skin thoroughly cleansed, balanced and silky.
What we say: Everything about this product is luxury – the expensive-looking white and gold packaging, the gorgeous scent of essentials oils, and the thick rich texture. It’s unique too - the scrub includes Himalayan Crystal Salt, which works alongside the loofah to exfoliate skin.
The Results: I don’t have problem skin, but it is definitely lacking in radiance, so I was thrilled to be asked to test this product. The thick essential-oil-based scrub cooled my skin on contact and gently exfoliated while it cleansed. I don’t think my skin has ever felt softer – it was as if it had been veiled in the essential oils, but it didn’t feel at all heavy or greasy. It’s definitely perked up my skin – the surface is smoother and the skin tone more even. This scrub is a real treat.
Best for: Waking up dull skin

News: ELIZABETH ARDEN CELEBRATES 08.08.08 WITH THOUSANDS OF FREE EIGHT HOUR SAMPLES (01.08.08) 
By Laura Selway
08.08.08. Mark that date firmly in your diary. Elizabeth Arden has chosen the unique moment in time to celebrate their iconic Eight Hour Cream and will be giving away thousands of Eight Hour samples from their counters nationwide.
Originally formulated by Elizabeth Arden in 1930, Eight Hour Cream became an instant and overwhelming success. The revolutionary and award-winning formula of petrolatum, beta-hydroxy acid (a skin-soothing anti-inflammatory) and vitamin E has not been changed since it’s creation over 75 years ago.
An ‘it’ bag all-rounder, eight hour cream works on everything from cracked lips to cuticles, insect bites and windburn, and we love it as a gloss for lips, lashes and cheeks. More recently, the winning Eight Hour formula has been used to create a range of skin care products for lips, hands and body, with prices starting from just £16.
Head down to your nearest Elizabeth Arden counter on Friday 8th August to take advantage of the sample-fest. We’ll be at the front of the queue…