August 2010

 

Feature: WHO’S USING WHAT? (27.08.10)
Everything is celebrity endorsed these days – and if it’s good enough for them, it’s good enough for us… So this week, we’ve found out what sits on the dressing tables and bathroom shelves of our favourite red-carpet beauties and Hollywood stars.

 

SKINCARE
It’s not always the case that film stars use the most expensive skincare they can find. What they do tend to use is the best though – after all, who wouldn’t want a top-notch complexion with all those close ups?
It’s refreshing that a range as reasonably priced as Superdrug’s Purity Organic Skincare is being used by the women who grace cinema screen and the covers of the glossies. Celebrated makeup artist Judy Chin uses the eco-friendly skincare range on Rachel Weisz, Sarah Jessica Parker and Jennifer Connelly. She says, “I love Purity Organic Skincare for its simplicity and its pure organic ingredients. Your skin feels clean, nurtured, and balanced. Purity has a unique calming effect that is really important to me and the actors I work with.” Try the Overnight Regenerating Moisturiser, £7.99 (www.superdrug.com) – a low-budget high-performer.
Kate Bosworth swears by it and Blake Lively buys in bulk - with credentials like that from two peachy-skinned actresses, it’s hard to resist the lure of Malin+Goetz Replenishing Face Serum, £50 (www.liberty.co.uk). It’s great for the summer, as it’s really light and has a zesty smell - but it holds a thousand times its own weight in moisture to intensely hydrate the skin, so it’s a serious hard-worker, too.
Emma Bunton might have spent fifteen years in the spotlight but you wouldn’t know it from her youthful complexion. One of her secrets is up for grabs, in the shape of Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream, £75 (www.timetospa.co.uk). It’s got cult status these days and it’s not surprising – this cream is clinically proven to reduce the appearance of wrinkle depth by up to 78% and increase skin hydration and moisture levels by up to 45%. The great thing is that with all these super powers comes a deliciously light, easily absorbed cream that smells divine. No wonder Emma loves it.

 

MAKEUP
The stars know that choosing a style for a film premiere doesn’t stop at their outfit. Beauty and fashion editors will be on the look out to make sure that their faces are as ‘this season’ as their dress, bag and accessories. They might have stylists and top makeup artists to help them – but we can still learn a thing or two just by knowing which brands make it into their makeup bags!
Jessica Alba, Cameron Diaz and Drew Barrymore all use Blinc Mascara, £15.75 (www.beautybay.com). Its innovative formula creates tiny tubes around lashes rather than painting them like conventional mascaras. Once applied, the tubes bind to lashes and can’t run, smudge, clump or flake – even if you cry or rub your eyes. Only when you are ready for removal, the tubes will effortlessly slide off lashes without the use of harsh makeup remover. No wonder Drew never has panda eyes.
Sienna Miller’s makeup bag essential is eyeliner. She keeps her look natural but a simple feline flick helps her stay sexy day and night. She's a big fan of Bobbi Brown's Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner, £15 (www.bobbibrown.co.uk), which creates the same effect as a liquid liner, but is just as easy to apply as pencil. Use a fine brush and flick up at the corners to recreate Sienna's look in Factory Girl.
Duwop Lip Venom, £14.50 (www.beautybay.com) is loved by celebrity pouters Elizabeth Hurley, Jennifer Aniston and Gwyneth Paltrow. It was the original lip plumper and is formulated with a blend of essential oils, including cinnamon, wintergreen and ginger, which cause the blood to rush to the surface of the lips, flushing and swelling them slightly. It also contains jojoba and avocado oil to hydrate and leave an intense shine. Perfect for that love scene!

 

NAILS
The stars love their nail colours – and so do we. What better way to show how on-trend you are than by sporting the latest shade for a sashay down the red carpet? And the good news for mere mortals like us is that a new manicure is a lot cheaper than copying our favourite celebrity’s choice of handbag!
So what brands do the stars love? Beauty professionals have long found Essie's chip-resistant formula, outstanding durability and in-season colour selection far superior to anything else on the market – which explains why celebrities such as Madonna, Sharon Stone, and Cindy Crawford are among the brand’s biggest fans. After all, they could afford any polish they liked! So what Essie colour are the famous names wearing at the moment? Kate Winslet, Dannii Minogue, Katie Holmes and Angelina Jolie have all been spotted in Mademoiselle, £8.50 (www.beautybay.com), a sheer pastel pink that is perfect for day or night.
British brand Ciaté was developed by manicurist Charlotte Straughan – and her innovative collection includes beautifully packaged and salon-inspired polishes called Paint Pots, £9 (www.ciate.co.uk) as well as buffers, scrubs, exfoliants and oils. With new collections every season, Ciaté always seem to hit the fashion nail on the head. They have a wealth of celebrity fans and this season you’ll find Una Healy from The Saturday’s wearing Velvet Tuxedo, a fabulous metallic grey; Daisy Lowe wearing Mistress, a bold red; and Pixie Lott wearing Ditch the Heels, a bright jade green.
Chanel leads the nail pack – and the fashion house has an ‘It’ shade for every season. This autumn it’s Paradoxal, £16.50 (Counters Nationwide) an unusual taupe/grey with an undercurrent of purple shimmer that gives it a subtle sheen indoors and a slight sparkly effect in daylight. And here’s another reason to love Chanel’s cult colours – Lily Allen and Michelle Williams are fans too!

 

HAIR
Brigitte Bardot’s beehive, Bo Derek’s corn rows, Jennifer Aniston’s fabled ‘Rachel’ cut... being obsessed with the hairstyles of TV and film stars is nothing new. But these days it’s not just about taking a photo of our favourite actress to the hairdresser and saying, “Make me look like that!”. By finding out what graces the bathroom shelves of our hair heroines we can get A-list condition for our tresses too...
Philip B has been in the beauty industry since 1984 and has built up a solid clientele of famous clients. His range focuses on products that are a pleasure to use but can also deal with the effects of city living and glamorous lifestyles. He even calls what he does 'Head Care', because he looks after both the hair and scalp. So who are his famous fans? Singers like Madonna, Britney Spears, Lady Gaga and Pink, as well as actresses such as Angelina Jolie, Gwyneth Paltrow, Penelope Cruz and Katie Holmes. That’s some client list. Get red-carpet hair like them by trying his Rejuvenating Oil, £24.50 (www.beautybay.com) - an intensive hair and scalp treatment that closely replicates the scalp's own natural sebum with a blend of essential oils.
Joico is another brand popular with the rich and famous. Taylor Swift, known for her long, curly tresses, says “I love Joico. I really like the product line and it just seems to really work for my hair.” And Kourtney Kardashian raves that “Once a week I try to do a mask on my hair. My favorite one is K-PAK by Joico. I am absolutely obsessed with the way it smells!”. Try it for yourself: K-PAK Deep-Penetrating Reconstructor, £14.95 (www.hqhair.com).
Sienna Miller is a huge fan of the new Jo Hansford Protect & Shine Leave-in Conditioner, £16.50 (www.johansford.com), which not only conditions hair but works as a styling aid to leave your locks textured and wavy. She was recently photographed leaving the Jo Hansford Mayfair salon with a new colour and cut and said “I adore it, my hair feels so much softer and healthier – plus it smells heavenly!”. And Gwyneth Paltrow recently blogged about the Rahua haircare range which has recently arrived in the UK, from £26.50 (www.hqhair.com).

 

BODY
It’s not surprising that the A-Listers want to invest some of their millions in body products to keep themselves looking smooth and glowing. After all, with close scrutiny from the paparazzi every time they shed a few layers on the beach, the pressure is always on! But what are their figure enhancing secrets? And where can we buy them? Find out here...
Caudalie, the French skincare brand that uses the anti-oxidant power of grape-seed polyphenols to fight skin ageing, has a huge celebrity following. Cat Deeley, Jessica Szohr and Helena Christensen all love the range. For a paparazzi-friendly body, try their 3-step firming regimen: the Merlot Friction Scrub, £21.50, the Firming Concentrate, £25.50, and the Nourishing Body Lotion, £18 (www.caudalie.com/uk).
Who better to take tips from on the best fake tan than a WAG? Alex Curran says "I discovered Famous Dave's Moisture Tan on the web after I heard people raving about it. I tried it and found it gave you a great natural colour without a hint of orange." Famous Dave's Moisture Tan, £23.99 (www.famousdave.co.uk) is a hit with footballer’s wives, as well as those of us with less cash to splash. It doesn’t contain the frequently used ingredients found in most fake tan products that cause skin to turn orange in colour and dries to the touch almost immediately so you don’t have to wait before you dress.
And to finish your A-List look, why not take a tip from the most bootylicious of them all – Beyoncé? “I moisturise with Palmer’s Cocoa Butter”, she says, “I especially love the Palmer’s Body Gloss”. Palmers The Body Gloss, £4.06 (www.chemistdirect.co.uk) contains pure cocoa butter, vitamin E and other rich emollients that provide just the right amount of moisture, leaving skin soft and smooth. Apply all over the body, specifically on shoulders, arms and legs – in fact wherever you want to enrich your skin tone with a deep, radiant glow. Perfect for a sunny day – or for that sexy mini-dress after dark.

 

FRAGRANCE
Celebrities and perfumes are a match made in heaven. In fact these days you’ll struggle to find a singer or actress who hasn’t brought out their own fragrance. Jennifer Aniston has recently joined the ranks of Jennifer Lopez, Beyoncé, Britney Spears and Kylie, to name but a few. And no wonder – it’s big business. But are we supposed to believe that these celebs actually spritz on their own perfumes when they’re off-duty? Probably not. Let’s find out what their favourite scents really are.
Marc Jacobs is popular with the A-Listers. Kimberly Walsh from Girls Aloud is a massive Marc Jacobs Women's Signature fragrance, £72 (http://shop.harveynichols.com) fan. It’s bursting with the scent of fresh gardenias floating on water, enhanced by creamy musks.
Lady Gaga loves Marc Jacobs too. Her favourite is Daisy, currently available in a limited ‘Pop Art’ edition, £60 (http://shop.harveynichols.com) – which sounds like something Lady Gaga would love! The iconic daisy bottle is transformed by a shiny red lacquer finish and the glossy red outer carton is detailed with a black daisy chain One for the collectors out there.
‘Nation’s Sweetheart’ Cheryl Tweedy, is well known for keeping up appearances and reportedly spends over 1 million pounds a year on styling, clothes and beauty products. Her favourite perfume is a more affordable choice though. She favours Hugo Boss Orange, £30.95 (www.cheapsmells.com) - a soft, sweet orange scent.
Fashion queens Blake Lively and Whitney Port are fans of DKNY Fresh Blossom, £29.50 (www.theperfumeshop.com). It’s a perfect city girl’s perfume, inspired by the apple blossoms in Central Park signalling the end of the winter. Delicate, feminine and fresh - it’s not surprising these two New York ladies love it!

 

Tried & Tested: CLEANSING FLUIDS (27.08.10)
In a hurry? Replace your foaming face wash with a bottle of gentle cleansing fluid.
KORRES MILK PROTEINS 3 IN 1 CLEANSING EMULSION, £14 for 200ml (www.lookfantastic.com)
What they say: Rich in vegetable oils, the milk proteins emulsion gently cleanses, tones and moisturises; it removes face and eye makeup, sebum and dirt, allowing the skin to breathe. Milk proteins, rich in lactose and essential amino acids, offer nourishing properties and form a hydrating film on the skin by bonding with water molecules.
The Results: I use a foaming face wash, so swapping to a creamy cleanser felt strange – I wasn’t convinced that it could remove all the dirt and makeup. Applying the product felt luxurious – it was like smoothing a rich moisturiser over my face - and I loved the subtle fragrance. It was a relief to see the dirt building up on the cotton wool and I was very impressed by how easily my eye makeup was removed as I wear quite a lot of jet-black mascara. I must admit that using this cleanser was very easy and saved me a lot of time in the evening. I do miss the fresh feeling after washing my face, but on the other hand my skin feels very soft after using it. The best bit for me is that the cleanser is 96.6 per cent natural, so I know that nothing nasty is going onto my skin.
Best for: Natural cleansing

 

TAER ICELANDIC COMPLETE CLEANSE, £20.99 for 100ml (www.feelunique.com)
What they say: A water-soluble, hydrating one-step cleanser, containing precious extracts of Icelandic yarrow, lemon balm, eucalyptus, tea tree and the exclusive Taer calming complex. Suits all skin types, including sensitive and combination.
The Results: I have combination skin and stick religiously to my alcohol-based cleanser to make sure I don’t get blemishes. As I’ve got older, I’ve found that it strips a lot of moisture out of my skin, but I am scared to stop using it. Being asked to test this cleanser was the push I needed to move onto something a little more grown-up. And thank goodness I tried it! I was pleased to detect the scent of tea-tree oil, as I know that’s good for problem skin. The texture is quite thick, like a lotion, but it was very effective at picking up dirt and removing makeup. My skin felt very fresh after using it. The only downside is that it wasn’t easy to pour from the glass bottle, which I imagine could make it quite hard when it’s nearing the end. I’ve been using the cleanser now for a fortnight and have had absolutely no breakouts. My skin is feeling great and I’m delighted to have discovered it.
Best for: Problem skin

 

CAUDALIE CLEANSING WATER, £14.50 (www.escentual.com)
What they say: Micellar water captures dirt like tiny "dirt magnets" and sweeps it away without rubbing. This high-tolerance formula is suitable for even the most sensitive skin, thanks to its soothing and hydrating active ingredients.
The Results: My skin is quite dry, so I usually opt for a cleansing balm – but I liked this gentle, water-based cleanser, which left my skin feeling soft and supple. It was easy to use – I simply covered a cotton pad with the solution and gently wiped away dirt and makeup. I liked the fact I could use it to remove eye makeup too, which saved me lots of time and will also save money on buying bottles of eye makeup remover. I decanted some of the water into a travel bottle for a long-haul flight and beach holiday – and I loved the way it refreshed my skin on the plane and was gentle enough to use three or four times a day on holiday to remove sun cream from my skin. It’s a great price, as you don’t need much for each use.
Best for: Multitasking

 

JO MALONE AVOCADO CLEANSING MILK, £30 for 250ml (www.jomalone.co.uk)
What they say: Avocado Cleansing Milk is a gentle cleanser that effortlessly removes all traces of makeup and impurities. Avocado, a naturally rich emollient, infuses moisture into the skin.
The Results: I’ve been using a rich milky cleanser for a while now, as I have very dry skin and the extra moisture helps to keep it feeling hydrated and supple. This cleanser looks very luxurious and I couldn’t wait to start using it. The bottle is squeezable, making appliance onto cotton wool quick and easy. I found the fresh cucumber-style fragrance very pleasant and loved the way it felt cooling on contact with the skin – almost like I’d splashed my face with cool water. My makeup was very easily removed with just a few wipes of the pad. I could tell that it was packed with moisturising ingredients, as my skin felt lovely and soft, with a subtle sheen on the surface. After a fortnight of using this, I definitely feel that my skin is more balanced. It’s pricey, but worth the investment.
Best for: Very dry skin

 

ESPA HYDRATING CLEANSING MILK, £21 for 200ml (www.espaonline.com)
What they say: An exceptionally gentle, yet deeply cleansing water-soluble creamy milk which sweeps away impurities, without affecting the natural balance of oils in your skin, leaving your face cleansed, refreshed and hydrated. Delicate chamomile and antioxidant-rich benzoin are calming, whilst rose geranium soothes even the most sensitive skin.
The Results: Using this cleanser felt like I was having a luxury facial every day. It smells divine and has a gorgeous rich and creamy texture. The bottle looks fabulous and feels expensive, although it does need a good shake to get the product onto the cotton wool. I didn’t need to use much, so it definitely won’t run out any time soon. I have normal skin, neither oily or greasy, but it can occasionally feel hot and sensitive after cleansing. I found this product very gentle and experienced none of those symptoms. My skin felt incredibly soft afterwards, like I had just massaged in a rich moisturiser. I usually find cleansing boring and a bit of a chore, but using this product makes it a real treat.
Best for: Luxury cleansing

 

DARPHIN AZAHAR CLEANSING MICELLAR WATER, £22 for 200ml (0870 0342556)
What they say: A mild aromatic cleanser for face, eyes and lips. Particularly appropriate for sensitive eyes and sensitive skin prone to redness, rosacea and irritation. Non-rinsing and non-drying formula gently removes impurities and makeup without irritating, leaving skin fresh, soft and supple.
The Results: I have very sensitive skin, yet am prone to getting the odd spot, so stick to a cleanser that is designed for problem skin. This usually causes my skin to flare up, so I’ve recently been on the lookout for something gentler. When I first saw this product, I doubted that it would be effective enough to stop me getting spots – it looks like water. However, with just a few swipes, the cotton wool showed it had got rid of impressive amounts of makeup and dirt. My skin felt lovely afterwards – not even a hint of redness and it felt calmer and cooler than ever before after cleansing. I haven’t had a single blemish since I started using it a month ago. A little goes a very long way so this bottle won’t run out any time soon.
Best for: Sensitive Skin

Blog: NICHOLE SWEETSUR, DIRECTOR OF SWEET PR, TELLS US ABOUT HER ESSENTIAL BEAUTY ADDRESSES (27.08.10)
Eleven Hair is hidden just off Bond Street and is easily missed, but once found, this salon is a keeper. I love the laid back atmosphere, I love the chic décor, but most of all I love what the team does with my hair. Book Ben or Russell for ‘just right’ cuts, or Jason for naturally beautiful colour. www.eleven-hair.com
Ushvani is another secret beauty address right in the heart of London. Inspired by Malay beauty rituals, this is an exquisite day spa with massages and facials that take relaxation to a new level. Their attention to detail is incredible; the spa even has its own tea to sip in their relaxation room, the hard part is leaving. www.ushvani.com
I was born in Australia and haven’t been back for a long time, but visiting the Daintree Eco Lodge and Spa is a must. Tree house style villas are set in the most beautiful rain forest so you can divide your days between nature walks and indulgent treatments which are based on local plant ingredients. http://www.daintree-ecolodge.com.au/
I can never walk past Liberty without popping in; I love their eclectic approach to selecting brands and always want to busy something. But the store where I spend the most of my beauty budget would be actually be Boots – not so glam but a girl has to be practical to stay looking good.
I can never resist the beauty goodies at www.victoriahealth.com as co-founder Gill Sinclair has an uncanny ability to find the best products from around the world. You can also shop for the best hair, skin and nail supplements whilst you are online.
I never bother with expensive nail varnish and I never book an expensive nail treatment, the best manicures and pedicures are done at the cheapest nail bars. Steer clear of the acrylics - I book a straightforward mani or pedi and am never disappointed. I tend to take my own varnish though as their selection is often limited.
I live in London and holistic facialist Julia Hart is based in Kent, but she is worth the short journey for the way she combines complimentary therapies and her facial skills. She is one of the new people in the UK to offer the O2 Intraceuticals Oxygen Facial and products. She is a real find. www.juliahart.co.uk
As a working mum I don’t have a lot of time for treatments so I prefer to disappear into the bathroom with a good book and something indulgent for the bath. I’d probably choose something from Abahna such as their relaxing Himalayan Bath Salts and scented candles are a must.
I would never say never to cosmetic surgery but I believe there are so many steps to take before anything that drastic. As I have got older I have become more obsessed with the quality of my skin. I have just had the dermaroller treatment with Dr Toni Phillips at Renew Medica and can’t wait to see the results! www.renewmedica.com
I am obsessed with Japanese beauty and would head to Tokyo to explore the department stores and specialist shops where I would have no idea how to use the myriad of beauty gadgets they create! Their attention to detail with packaging is amazing; ideally I’d go with a like minded girl friend and a large shopping budget.

 

Treatment Review: HEAVEN BEE VENOM MASK CAUSES A BUZZ (27.08.10)
If you haven’t yet heard of celebrity facialist Deborah Mitchell’s brand HEAVEN, now is the time to commit the name to memory. In a market where big brands and huge budgets rule, this natural range is forging the way for home-grown brands and creating an excited buzz across the beauty industry.
HEAVEN has been around for over ten years, with celebrity fans including Dannii Minogue and Emilia Fox extolling its virtues. So why is it about to hit the big time now? It’s all down to the contents of a small, unassuming glass jar. HEAVEN’s Bee Venom Mask has been exposed as the natural alternative to Botox, which many in the public eye swear by.
The Mask contains Bee Venom, which works to gently “sting” the skin - a tingling but not painful sensation. It encourages regeneration and promises instant firming and lifting effects. This magic ingredient is combined with healing Manuka Honey, soothing rose and lavender oils and Shea Butter to moisturise.
Demand has been unprecedented, with a current waiting list of three weeks and jars going for twice the retail value on eBay.
HEAVEN Bee Venom Mask is available from £19.95 for 15ml at www.heavenskincare.com

 

Editor’s Letter (27.08.10)
Being a beauty journalist has its obvious benefits – and one is being offered cuts and colours at some of the world’s top hair salons. For the last few years, I’ve flitted around - trying cuts, colours, and blow-dries all over London. I’ve had my tresses preened by celebrity hairdressers – and regularly sat alongside the celebrities themselves, pretending to flick through a magazine as I eavesdrop their star-studded conversations. Don’t get me wrong – I am incredibly appreciative of the opportunities I’ve been given and I have always been pleased with the result (bar one incident, when one side was embarrassingly shorter than the other) – but I’ve never been completely blown-away. That was until I abandoned the paparazzi-magnet salons and headed nearer to home. I headed to my local HEADMASTERS Salon in Tunbridge Wells, Kent and I was hugely impressed – not only with the glossy colour, flattering cut, and stylish blow-dry, but by the incredibly warm, personal service. I have just gone back for my second appointment – and I have been reminded why it pays to be loyal to a hairdresser. It’s quicker (no lengthy chats about what you want) and it’s far more personal (my stylist already knew how I wore and styled my hair). Ladies, it’s well worth staying closer to home – and if you happen to have a HEADMASTERS salon near that home, you are in serious luck. www.hmhair.co.uk

 

Urban Decay. If you love New York as much as I do – I’m even dragging the new husband there for our honeymoon in December – your heart will beat a little faster when you catch sight of Urban Decay’s Book of Shadows Vol.III (£30) I like it even more than the Alice in Wonderland version, which flew off shelves earlier this year. It’s not all about looks, either – there is some serious makeup hidden beneath the pop-up New York cityscape (which is lit by LED’s) The palette includes 16 eyeshadows, two mini eyeliners, and one mini Primer Potion – so also represents great value for money. Get yours at Debenhams, from September.

 

Mama Mio. I wasn’t entirely convinced with the PR handed me a bottle of Mamo Mio Shrink to Fit Cellulite Cream (£35) – but I agreed to apply it twice daily for 30 days to see what it could do. Sadly, my bottle only got me to 28 days before running out, but I was hugely impressed with the results, so I will forgive that. The cream is difficult to rub into thighs, which accounts for some of the results, as you are vigorously massaging the area twice a day. It feels like body butter and has a lovely scent. After the trial, the difference was visible – my thighs looked smoother, felt softer, and appeared firmer. I will definitely be investing in a bottle before every holiday ongoing. www.mamamio.com

 

BareMinerals. I’ve been using BareMinerals Foundation for over a year now – and at first, it was a love affair. Recently, however, it hasn’t suited my skin quite so well. It settles into pores, making them look larger, and doesn’t seem to last as long (probably something to do with the summer heat). When I was sent the brand’s Prime Time Foundation Primer (£18), it resolved all these issue, making the finish better than ever. The non-greasy, lightweight lotion glides onto skin, creating the perfect base for mineral foundation. I found it lasted longer, looked less shiny, and no longer settled so obviously in the pores. I wish I’d discovered it earlier. www.bareescentuals.co.uk

 

Imperial Leather. OK, so I’m a little late to the party, as Foamburst Shower Gels launched 12 years ago, but I have just discovered how totally fabulous they are. One small squirt of gel creates mountains of the fluffiest, silkiest foam, which makes a shower feel like a pampering spa treatment. I have fallen head over heels for the luxurious Jojoba and Passion Flower fragrance (£2.65) – I can’t get enough of it. And I can’t quite believe how affordable it is, with over 40 washes per can. It doubles up as shaving gel too, which makes it even better value for money. www.superdrug.com

 

Mulberry. Oh dear. I have spent the last 10 years of my life yearning after Mulberry bags, but I sense a new addiction… The brand’s Autumn/Winter collection is making serious ripples in the fashion world – and I am dreaming of adding this fabulous leopard-print Margaret Dress (£750) to my wardrobe. The entire collection was inspired by Princess Margaret, with each piece pairing classic detail with a cheeky twist (in this case, cowl back draping). Lord help my bank account... www.mulberry.com

 

Treatment Review: SPC DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE, BAGLIONI SPA, LONDON (27.08.10)
What it promises: Using luxurious SPC products, this massage consists of deep tissue and remedial techniques and is strongly recommended for those with aches, pains, muscle tension and stress.
What happens: It was the moment when the door of my taxi was opened by a uniformed hotel porter, who then guided me through the grand hotel reception to the reception of the Baglioni Spa, that I realised I was in for a treat. I wasn’t wrong… This is no regular spa experience – booking in for a 55-minute massage gave me access to a luxurious changing room (complete with sauna and steam room) and my own locker, containing a cosy gown and slippers. After filling in the necessary forms, I was collected by my therapist and lead to our treatment room, which was decorated in cosy shades of mocha brown and cream. I had indicated that I was suffering from back pain, so the therapist decided to concentrate specifically on my back for the hour-long treatment (the signature treatment would work on my whole body). I asked for a deep pressure, which would ensure results – and after taking a few deep breaths, whilst the therapist felt areas of my back, she honed in on the exact area that was causing me pain (I was astonished she had discovered it so quickly). After a good 15-minutes on this one area, the muscle loosened and she moved on to the rest of my back, shoulders, neck, and head. My back was not in good shape (due to hours bent over the computer…), so the massage was sometimes slightly uncomfortable – but I also found it very relaxing and even dropped off to sleep towards the end of the treatment. As an added bonus, the SPC massage oil was beautifully scented and left my skin feeling incredibly soft and smooth. After a cup of relaxing tea, I was ready to head out the hotel, past the porter, and take on High Street Kensington towards my commute home…
The Results: I’m no stranger to deep tissue massages – but this treatment was in a different league to anything I’ve tried before. The therapist understood my back pain within minutes of arriving on her treatment bed – and worked relentlessly to ease my pain, whilst making the experience as relaxing and soothing as possible. I was incredibly impressed and will definitely be heading back. As I walked out of the spa, I felt far surprisingly taller and completely ache-free. It might be a little corny to say that I had ‘a spring in my step’ – but I genuinely did.
Price: £95 for 55 minutes
Location: Baglioni Hotel, 60 Hyde Park Gate, Kensington, London SW7 5BB. 0207 3685923. www.baglionihotels.com and www.spc.co.uk.

 

Tried & Tested: OIL CONTROL PRODUCTS (13.08.10)
Struggling with shine this summer? We’ve tested six products that promise to leave the complexion matte and balanced.

 

BOBBI BROWN OIL CONTROL LOTION SPF15, £30.50 (www.bobbibrown.co.uk)
What they say: Ideal for normal-to-oily and combination skins. Oil Control Lotion SPF 15 is a lightweight, hydrating formula that keeps skin looking smooth and shine-free. Provides a soft matte finish and ensures smooth makeup application.
The Results: I have combination skin, which can feel dry and uncomfortable on my cheeks, yet is prone to shine on my forehead, chin and nose. I’ve thought about swapping to a moisturiser for oily skin, but I’ve been worried that it won’t provide the hydration that parts of my skin needs. I liked this product – my face felt soft and supple, yet appeared shine-free. The change in the oiliness of my T-Zone was subtle – I didn’t notice a huge difference on the first day of use, but after two weeks my skin appeared matte for longer and I noticed that I didn’t need to apply pressed powder as often throughout the day. I’ll definitely continue to use this product, as my skin feels much better for it.
Best for: Combination skin

 

JURLIQUE ROSE SILK FINISHING POWDER, £24 (www.jurlique.co.uk)
What they say: A silky translucent facial powder that refines the complexion and helps reduce unwanted shine. Leaves the skin fresh and radiant. Ideal for maintaining balance.
The Results: I wouldn’t necessarily describe my skin type as ‘oily’, but my complexion can sometimes look shiny after applying foundation, so I like to apply a pressed powder afterwards to make it matte. Testing this product was no extra hassle and I am thrilled to have discovered it. It’s really quick and easy to use, as it contains an applicator and mirror, so skin is shine-free in seconds. The powder is translucent, which makes it suitable for every skin tone. It has a silky texture and feels light on the skin. It’s more than I’d usually spend on makeup, but I can’t fault it for performance. The packaging is quite bulky, so I’ll leave this on my dressing table for finishing my makeup every morning.
Best for: Applying after foundation

 

L’OCCITANE ULTRA MATTE FACE FLUID, £20 (http://uk.loccitane.com)
What they say: With an ultra light and velvety texture, this moisturiser is recommended for combination and oily skin. Enriched with rebalancing zinc and red rice extract from Camargue, as well as astringent red rice vinegar and mattifying powdered red rice, it leaves skin pure and mattified.
The Results: This lotion has a sweet, milky scent, which reminded me of rice pudding. I really liked it, but some people might find it a bit too sweet. I don’t generally apply moisturiser to my nose or forehead, as these are the areas that get shiny, but as this product is aimed at oily skin, I decided to break with tradition and apply it everywhere. I only needed a small 5-pence size amount for my whole face and it absorbed within seconds. It felt lightweight and non-greasy and – unlike most other lotions I’ve tried – left my skin looking entirely matte. As the day went on, shine appeared on my T-Zone as usual, but I don’t think even the most powerful products could prevent that! The rest of my skin looked and felt shine-free throughout the day. Overall, I was impressed and I’d recommend it to others with oily skin.
Best for: Very oily skin

 

OLE HENRIKSEN GREASE RELIEF FACE TONIC, £20 (www.lookfantastic.com)
What they say: Wave goodbye to blemishes as this non-drying antiseptic Ole Henriksen Grease Relief Face Tonic minimises pores and breakouts to disinfect, balance, renew and calm your skin. Suitable for oily or blemish prone skin.
The Results: I’ve always had fairly ‘normal’, balanced skin in the past – but in last few months, my nose and forehead has become very shiny by mid afternoon and blemishes are appearing almost on a daily basis. I assume it’s to do with hormone changes, but it’s driving me mad. I was thrilled to be asked to take part in this trial and even more excited to be handed a bottle with the words ‘Grease Relief’ on it! The tonic had a strong, alcoholic scent, which was a little off putting, but it was otherwise easy to use. I simply swiped it over skin after cleansing with a cotton bud and allowed it to dry. It tingles slightly, but it isn’t at all unpleasant. The results weren’t instant, but after a week I noticed my skin felt less oily. I’ve now been using it (morning and night) for a fortnight and finally feel like my skin is balanced again.
Best for: Oily, blemish-prone skin

 

PAUL & JOE BLOTTING PAPER, £9.75 (www.asos.com)
What they say: Pretty blotting paper compact by Paul & Joe. Blotting papers designed to control shine. Contains a mirror. Blotting paper refills are available.
The Results: I use pressed powder to blot away shine – and whilst it does the job, my skin can sometimes end up looking a bit dry and flaky. I’ve heard about blotting paper before, but never used it as I thought it was a bit overpriced. After testing these, however, I am totally converted! I love the pretty packaging of this product, which includes a convenient mirror. It’s really light, so great for carrying around in my handbag – and unlike pressed powder, there’s no worry that it will break. The sheets are large – which means that I only needed one to blot my nose, cheeks and forehead (the areas that tend to get shiny). The results were instant and long-lasting - I only needed one sheet each afternoon to keep shine at bay. Refills are only £2 each, so it will work out cheaper than pressed powder in the long run.
Best for: Long-lasting results

 

SISLEY INSTANT PERFECT, £38.50 (www.harrods.com)
What they say: A corrective and skin-enhancing product for an instant beauty boost. Instant Perfect is a siliconated gel emulsion with an ultra-soft touch, which acts instantly to erase skin imperfections and highlight the eyes. Shine, dilated pores, imperfections and dark areas are reduced.
The Results: My skin was oily in my youth, but as I’ve got older it’s become dry and sensitive in places, so I’d now describe it as ‘combination’. Wrinkles worry me, as I’m not able to use the thick, rich anti-ageing creams that tackle the problem. I loved the sound of this product, as it promised to reduce shine and smooth skin. The cream was thick, yet lightweight. It absorbed really quickly and left my skin matte, silky soft, and very smooth. It was impressive – but sadly the results didn’t last as long as I’d hoped, with the shininess returning a few hours later. The other major down side is that the tube is tiny and I needed quite a bit to cover my skin, so I don’t think it would last long. However, I’d really recommend this product if you are attending a big event and want to instantly perfect your skin.
Best for: Instant results

 

Blog: KATHLEEN GRANADOS – FROM PACIFIC DAY SPA – SHARES TIPS FOR DEALING WITH ACNE, SCARRING AND PIGMENTATION (13.08.10)
Since my teenage years, I have been concerned with acne, scarring, and pigmentation. I was always eager to learn what I could be doing to control my acne and take better care of my skin. I have learnt that the best approach is to really know your skin, understand your acne, and do your best to prevent it. Start with a good home care routine, get facials regularly, and see a doctor if you need medication.
I love performing facials and helping my clients get on the right track for their skin needs. Below are seven tips I wanted to share and hope you find useful:
1. Have a good, cleansing routine with products suitable for your skin type and condition. Always double cleanse at night. The 1st cleanse removes the dirt and makeup and the 2nd cleanse helps clear pores. It is important your cleanser is not high in alkaline, or it will strip the skin. Book a skincare consultation if you are unsure.
2. Exfoliate. Our cell renewal rate slows down as we get older. If you don’t exfoliate you have dead skin layering, which makes skin prone to breakouts as the excess sebum surfaces. I love the Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant, it is great for all skin types including sensitive skins, especially those with acne rosacea. Regular exfoliation will slough away all the dead skin cells to keep skin clear.
3. Increased hormones can cause breakouts –increased hormones occur during teenage years, menstruation, pregnancy, stressful periods, our bodies produce more testosterone which leads to an increase in sebum production. When this happens it is critical to exfoliate more regularly and use cleansers or serums with salicylic acid to help prevent breakouts. Salicylic acid helps promote exfoliation, is antibacterial, and will help to decongest the follicles.
4. Know the type of spots that you have, so you use the right ingredients. For clients with pustules or underlying acne / congestion, I recommend products with salicylic acid. If they have papules (the bumps that don’t have a white and seem very impacted) caused by a lack oxygen in the follicle which causes bacteria to multiply, I recommend products with ingredient benzyl peroxide, this puts oxygen in the follicle, exfoliates heavily, and opens a pathway for the spot to change and start to heal. Benzyl is very stripping so should really be placed only on the spots. Try the Dermalogica Special Clearing Booster as it won’t strip as much to the surrounding areas and helps clear the spot faster.
5. Regular facials – A good, thorough cleansing facial with extractions if needed is the best gift you can give to your skin. Extractions should not be done at home. During a facial your therapist will give you a professional grade exfoliation, use serums and masques to help hydrate, rejuvenate, and calm skin. Acne clients should have facials every 4-6 weeks. A good home care regime will ensure the benefits continue after the facial. Know your skin, monitor the breakout times, and schedule your facials accordingly.
6. Fight ageing and pigmentation - Sun protection is the most important product in the bathroom! It slows down ageing and prevents pigmentation and scarring. 10% of our ageing is due to genetic factors and 90% of skin ageing is cumulative exposure to the sun and environment. Pregnancy, the pill, increased hormones, medication are all trigger factors for pigmentation, which makes sun protection even more important. Use sun protection always even when you don’t think there is much sun... prevention is better than cure.
7. Using antioxidants can limit the damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are in pollution, smoking, UV exposure that lead to wrinkles, pigmentation. Many products now contain antioxidants to limit the damage free radicals cause. Vitamin A is normalising, reverses photo ageing, inhibits the collagen breakdown, and helps the skin to manage cell turnover rate. The Dermalogica Multivitamin Power Recovery Mask is a great antioxidant and has vitamin A, C, E in it which helps with scars and pigmentation.

 

Feature: NO KNIFE REQUIRED (13.08.10)
Step away from the surgeon! This week, we take a look at the non-evasive beauty products that will make a dramatic difference to your face, eyes, neck, bust, body and hands.

 

FACE
‘Pillow face’... ‘trout pout’... ‘wind tunnel’... It’s not just the price of cosmetic surgery that’s off-putting – it’s the fact that it’s not always easy to get a natural look. Thankfully, there’s a new generation of anti-ageing facial products that are designed to mirror the effects of treatments like Botox, laser therapy, and fillers – without the risk and expense.
With years of research behind it, Clinique’s new launch is the talk of the beauty world. Repairwear Laser Focus Wrinkle & UV Damage Corrector, £35 (www.selfridges.com from 6 August and www.clinique.co.uk from 10 September) is the brand’s latest anti-ageing serum and boasts a 63 per cent visible wrinkle reduction and results that are remarkably close to a dermatological laser treatment – in just 12 weeks. It contains natural repairing enzymes which help DNA repair and recover from damage caused by the sun; proteins and peptide complexes that work to boost your natural collagen production, and a cocktail of vitamins to protect against everyday environmental aggressors.
Or try Perricone MD’s High Potency Amine Complex Face Lift, £80 (www.perriconemd.co.uk). This powerful, dermatological-grade face treatment combines Dr Perricone's most effective anti-aging ingredients in higher levels than present in any Perricone MD product. Impressive credentials. And the result? A lifted, tightened, defined, contoured and radiant appearance, thanks to vitamin C Ester, DMAE and pycnogenol.
Crystal Clear Mini Lift Mask, £22 (http://crystalclear.co.uk) is a great at-home alternative to a close encounter with a needle – especially as independent clinical trials showed a mean reduction of 26 per cent in wrinkle depth and 40 per cent reduction in the amount of wrinkles. Quicker and less expensive than a professional treatment, the intensely hydrating and lifting mask firms and smoothes as well as deep cleanses – all within thirty minutes. High performance ingredients include Algae Gel Active, which provides the lifting effect, detoxifying Diatomaceous Earth, wheat protein and amino acids for moisturising and toning.

 

EYES
The first part of your face that people look at – and the first to reveal your age. Eyes attract laughter lines, wrinkles and crow’s feet, often making them the first place people have surgical procedures, too. But why spend hundreds – or even thousands – and hide away for weeks when these trouble-shooters can mimic the results of cosmetic surgery?
Bremenn’s Upper Eyelid Lifter, £52 (http://shop.harveynichols.com) targets the delicate upper eye, which can often droop or sag. The result is bigger, brighter, fresher-looking eyes, which appear more open and awake without any surgical treatments. The cream differentiates between this problem and under eye puffiness by using key ingredients such as a biopolymer from sweet almond proteins, amino acids and extracts from soy and yeast. And you won’t need to hide behind your sunglasses after using this!
Elemental Herbology recently introduced its Eye Elixir, £38 (www.spacenk.co.uk), which contains a plant-based anti-ageing active ingredient derived from wheat amino acids and palmitic acid. It’s this that combats the two main origins of wrinkles with a quick mechanical relaxing ‘botox’ like effect to smooth out expression lines and a long-term biological redensifying action to fill deep wrinkles. A short-term fix and a long-term solution in one: ideal.
Another reason that people choose surgery for the eye area is puffiness. Thankfully, Peter Thomas Roth Power K Eye Rescue, £63.95 (www.beautybay.com) can sort the problem without a bank loan. It’s an active eye treatment that helps to visibly brighten and reduce the appearance of dark circles, fatigue, bruising, fine lines and wrinkles by combating the underlying cause of darkening and ageing. And because it’s enriched with powerful anti-oxidants to help combat future free radical damage, you’re protecting for the future, too.

 

NECK
The neck area can be a real give-away when you’re trying to keep your age a secret. Often neglected, the delicate, thin skin under your chin can be easily prone to crêpiness and sagging. No need to resort to the surgeon’s knife though – these hi-tech treatments can reverse existing signs of ageing and prevent future damage, too.
Philosophy’s solution is When Hope is Not Enough cream for neck and décolleté, £26 (www.qvcuk.com). A highly emollient peptide cream, it was specifically created to help promote resilience and lift while reducing the signs of premature ageing. It contains glutathione, an ingredient that neutralises free radicals. And what makes it a pleasure to use is its light, non-oily texture that absorbs easily and won’t leave a greasy collar mark. Perfect.
Another solution that’s quicker and easier than a trip to the surgeon is Dr Brandt’s Time Arrest V Zone Neck Cream, £45.95 (www.beautybay.com). This luxurious cream boasts a highly effective platinum delivery system that carries active ingredients into the deepest layers of the epidermis, directly targeting problem areas to repair and restore skin’s structure. The result? An improvement in skin’s elasticity and moisture levels – and a smoother, silkier look and feel.
Rediscover youthful skin on your neck without the need to peel away layers with an uncomfortable treatment. For deep-set wrinkles and a loss of firmness, Lancôme offers Renergie Anti Wrinkle Firming Treatment for the face and neck, £57 (www.lancome.co.uk). Its unique formula fortifies skin from within, leaving it plumper and firmer, while dramatically decreasing the appearance of lines and wrinkles. This is thanks to a protein-based restructuring active ingredient (corn extract), which acts within the epidermis on intracellular fibres to help strengthen them. Impressive science and a beautifully-textured cream, too!

 

BUST
Breast surgery has become commonplace these days – and it’s not all about achieving Jordan-esque proportions. Women who’ve breastfed, lost weight, or just simply got a bit older are all looking for a way to restore the firmness of their bust. Instead of remortgaging, why not try some of these high-performance products that can improve the look of your assets without going under the knife?
Elemis offers a solution in the form of their Pro-Collagen Lifting Treatment for Neck And Bust, £72 (www.timetospa.co.uk). The revolutionary anti-ageing treatment is clinically proven to reduce skin crêpiness by up to 33 per cent and increase skin firmness by 17 per cent, with a 14 per cent increase in elasticity. A powerful weapon in the fight against slackening skin, this deliciously-scented cream minimises the signs of ageing for a smoother, firmer, more youthful-looking bust area.
It couldn’t be clearer what this one does! Bremenn’s Boob Job In A Box, £72 (http://shop.harveynichols.com) is a three-step bust beautification system that will lift your bustline, accentuate the look of your cleavage and ‘round out’ the look of your bust profile. And best of all, the result you get is completely natural! The kit contains Bremenn Bust Plumping Catalyst Cream, Bremenn Bust Toning Emulsion and Specialized Lifting and Toning Program.
Lierac Bust Lift Smoothing Treatment, £25 (www.lookfantastic.com) comes in the form of an innovative spray. It has an ultra-penetrating texture, enriched with wheat biopolymers that instantly weaves a coating meshwork to help strengthen bust support. The décolleté will look rapidly smoother while the skin appears smoother and more ‘lifted’. Easy to apply, it can be used as an occasional beauty booster or more regularly for a deep-down effect.

 

BODY
Achieving a youthful silhouette doesn’t mean resorting to a tuck here or a bit of liposuction there. But without the right care, skin can appear slack, flabby and dehydrated – not a good look when you’re on the beach. So tone your body all over with some of the specialised products out there designed to help you look good (nearly) naked – and save your money for that holiday.
Avoid uncomfortable surgical cellulite treatments with Rodial’s Body Sculpture, £95 (www.spacenk.co.uk) – a new, fast-acting formula that provides results in just thirty days. The treatment is clinically proven to reduce the hip and thigh area by up to one centimetre as it breaks down fatty deposits reducing cellulite and the 'orange peel' look. The formulation also stimulates tissue drainage as well as firming, tightening and toning the skin.
Karin Herzog’s Dynamic Duo, £48.00 (www.karinherzog.co.uk) is another alternative to slimming treatments that reduces cellulite, firms, hydrates and moisturises the skin using a patented formula. First, Silhouette is applied, formulated to increase circulation and disperse adipose tissue by forcing oxygen gas deep into the tissues, blasting away toxins that block the capillaries and cause uneven bumpy skin. Then a layer of Tonus B12 is smoothed on, feeding the skin with vitamin B12 and organic green tea and stimulating the transformation of fat into real increased energy. Loved by celebrities such as Victoria Beckham, Kylie and Sharon Stone!
For an all-over improvement in tone, smooth on REN Wild Yam Omega 7 Firming Body Repair Cream, £32.50 (www.renskincare.com), a rich body cream formulated to nourish, regenerate and firm dry and mature skin. Smells delicious but not overpowering – and because it sinks in easily, it’s perfect to use in the morning. Leaves your skin feeling hydrated, supple and toned. Or try Inlight Organic Firm & Tone Oil, £34.50 (www.inlight-online.co.uk). This powerful combination of oils and herbs invigorates tired skin anywhere on the body and restores tone and elasticity. Makes your bathroom smell like a spa, too.

 

HANDS
Hands have long been the last frontier in anti-ageing surgery, because they can’t be treated in the same way as other parts of the body. This has given rise to the modern phenomenon of mismatched hands and face. But recently, some women have resorted to cosmetic hand surgery to remove the prominent veins and age spots that give away their age. If that sounds too extreme, why not try these problem-solvers first?
All About Hands Anti-Ageing Night Cream, £10 (www.amazon.co.uk) comes from Upper Canada Soap and is a rich cream containing whitonyl, a natural active ingredient that has been clinically proven to significantly lighten brown spots and unify skin tone within eight to twelve weeks. It’s completely natural, contains the active ingredients avocado, olive oil and vitamins A and C and is best used as an overnight treatment wearing cotton gloves, to promote effective penetration of the cream during sleep.
Or why not hold back the years with Clarins Age-Control Hand Lotion SPF 15, £17.50 (http://uk.clarins.com)? This cult product lightens existing pigmentation marks through gentle exfoliation and prevents more appearing by slowing down the production of melanin. It also helps protect against the drying effects of external factors and against the skin-ageing effects of UV rays. Apply regularly and you’ll see a real difference in the condition of your nails, too.
Jurlique’s solution to mismatched hands and face is their Purely Age-Defying Hand Treatment, £33 (www.jurlique.co.uk), an age-defying, high-performance, moisturising hand cream containing daisy, liquorice and black elder to help fade discolourations. The cream helps to fight uneven skin tone and brighten skin for more youthful looking hands – with biodynamic marshmallow, calendula and organic sunflower oil soothing while melon extract moisturises. One to keep in your handbag at all times.

Treatment Review: RESTYLE AND BLOW-DRY, AT ESSENSUALS (13.08.10)
What it promises: A luxury cut and blow dry with multi-award winning stylist Jim Shaw, using Toni & Guy’s Label M products.
What happens: I’ve been meaning to change the shape of my hair for months, but wanted to make sure the stylist I charged with the makeover would be up to the job. Who better than award winning stylist Jim Shaw, former Salon Director of the Year and Men’s Hairdresser of the Year? To start things off, Jim had a lengthy chat with me to decide on how different, short, or trendy I wanted my new style to be and then my hair was treated to luxury shampoo and condition using the smell-good-enough to eat Oat & Honey Shampoo and Conditioner from the Label M range. If you haven’t yet tried products from the range, I would strongly recommend them. After a blissful 10-minute head massage, I was whisked back to my chair and served with coffee and biscuits while Jim got to work transforming my lack lustre do into something sassy! Within minutes I had a new fringe, different parting, and my new cut had been blow-dried and straightened into something resembling the actress Michelle Williams on her best day. After a final brush down I emerged from the salon feeling fabulous.
The Results: Three days down the line and my hair still looks great. Best of all, it was just as easy for me to blow-dry - something that doesn’t always happen when you visit a salon. I feel like Jim understood my hair, my personality, and my styling routine.
Price: £60 for cut and blow dry.
Location: Essensuals Salons are based nationwide. We visited the Billericay salon, at 65-67 High Street Billericay CM12 9AX. Call 01277 634000 for an appointment. Visit www.essensuals.com for details of salons nationwide.

 

Editor’s Letter (13.08.10)
It’s that time of year when we crave palm-fringed beaches, bottles of coconut-scented sun cream, and a deep mahogany tan – but what about the health of our skin? Last week, I made my way to The Mole Clinic for my annual check – and it always proves to be a big wake-up call. After 45 minutes with the nurse, who explained the risks and checked my entire body for signs of skin cancer or suspicious moles, I was given the all clear – but I am more convinced than ever that Fake Tan is the most sensible route to a summer glow. In fact, after hearing about how common Skin Cancer is becoming (both Melanoma and Non Melanoma), it makes me wince when I catch sight of somebody showing off a real tan. If you want to be certain that your skin is healthy, I would wholeheartedly recommend a visit to The Mole Clinic. You’ll be in good company, as regular clients include Denise Van Outen, Tamsin Outhwaite, Emillia Fox, and Meg Matthews. Services start at just £45, with premises nationwide. You will need to book a few weeks in advance as appointments are in demand. Call 0845 6048142 or visit www.themoleclinic.co.uk

 

Paul & Joe. There are few beauty products that have made me ‘oooh’ and ahhh’ as much as Paul & Joe’s new Claire de Lune Collection. French for ‘moonlight’, the collection is said to be inspired by the majestic beauty of the Parisian skyline. I’m not really sure how these fabulous feline lipsticks (£16) fit into that synopsis, but I love them nonetheless. The beautiful packaging is enough to convince me to invest – so add the quirky cat design and flattering array of hues to the mix, and the brand is definitely onto a winner. Containing Olive and Apricot Seed Oil, they are a real pleasure to smooth over lips. Available at Fenwick, New Bond Street (0207 6299161) and Harrods, Knightsbridge (0207 7301245 ext 2155).

 

Hair Tools. While we’re on the subject of fun prints, I have fallen head over heels for this Ladybird Paddle Brush (£6.95) from Hair Tools. It’s not often that you find a professional-quality haircare brand paying attention to prints and colour (ghd is the only other brand that springs to mind) – and I would welcome the splash of colour on my dressing table. The classic paddle brush has an easy grip, cushioned handle – so it’s great for those who haven’t yet masterered the home blow-dry. And for those who like to match, there are matching Ladybird Mini Straighteners and a Hair Dryer. www.hairtools.co.uk

 

Supersoft. I was lucky enough to be invited for a blow-dry at Schwarzkopf’s London Academy last week. The stylist used Supersoft’s new Straight and Glossy Shampoo and Conditioner (£1.95 each) on my hair, which contains moisturising Nutri-Oil (derived from peach kernels) and extracts of pearl. She didn’t use any other products during the blow-dry, so I was able to judge the results of the products for myself. I was incredibly impressed by how soft, smooth, and frizz-free my hair appeared afterwards – it was as if the stylist had smoothed serum through my locks. If you are prone to frizz, I highly recommend the products. Available Nationwide.

 

Mavala. I went to a press event recently and couldn’t help noticing that one of the beauty directors from the top glossies was wearing baby pink glitter on her nails. I had some in my beauty cupboard, so I thought I’d follow suit and paint my talons. Mavala’s Pink Diamond polish (£2.80) is perfect for the task. The glitter is suspended in clear polish. With one layer, the look is subtle, giving just a touch of sparkle, but I decided to build up the layers and found that three was the perfect amount for the heavy glitter look. For me, it’s a new take on the nude trend – my nails are still subtle and pretty, yet it’s a bit edgier than the ‘mannequin’ look I was sporting earlier in the summer (when my nails matched the colour of my skin). If the beauty directors are rocking the look, you can bet that everybody else will be following suit soon – so this is your chance to get ahead of the pack. www.mavala.co.uk

 

Breville. If you love cupcakes as much as me, you’ll be equally excited about Breville’s new launch – the Cupcake Creations Set (£34.99). Simply make up the cake mix, pour it into the cupcake-sized holes in the candy pink device, and shut the lid. The cakes will be ready in a matter of minutes, so you can get started on the best bit – decorating them! It’s perfect for last-minute visits from friends and relatives – and I predict that it will be flying off shelves as we edge closer to the festive season, so get yours quick! Available from Argos and Amazon.

 

TRIED & TESTED: WAVE ENHANCERS (06.08.10)
Ditch those straighteners and embrace your inner surf chick with our pick of wave enhancers.

 

BUMBLE & BUMBLE SURF SPRAY, £18 for 4oz (www.spacenk.co.uk)
What they say: Love the way your hair looks and feels after an ocean swim? We’ve bottled it. A salt infused styling spray with light hold for matte texture, fullness and a casual, windblown, sexy, sun-baked quality. Perfect for wavy types, landlocked surfers or for winter blues. It adds body to fine hair, is great for lift at the roots and gives a salty, sultry, beachy texture.
The Results: I’ve heard great things about this product, so I was excited when the package arrived for me to test. The spray is incredibly easy to use – it’s great for low maintenance girls like myself as I simply had to spritz it onto dry or damp hair. I chose to spray it onto dry hair, using my hands to scrunch and was amazed at how quickly I was able to create carefree waves. As the name suggests, it achieves an effortless look - very much as though you’ve just been to the beach, so it’s not a product for those who like to look perfectly groomed. The spray has a very light, fresh scent and doesn’t feel sticky or heavy in hair, as I was concerned it might yet does have a lasting hold. My only regret? Not investing in this sooner!
Best for: Cult investment

 

LEE STAFFORD MATT STYLEE MY BIG FAT TEXTURISED HAIR SUPER SPRAY, £8.99 for 90ml (BOOTS NATIONWIDE)
What they say: Forget shine- now it’s all about the matt! Lee says, “I wanted to create matt, texturised fabulously BIG hair- catwalk inspired, padded, volumised hair that looks undone, messy and sexy!”
The Results: I’m dedicated to my ghd’s - my friends tease me for never leaving the house without running them through my frizzy hair. With this in mind, I had to laugh when I heard I’d be testing a wave spray. Surely my friends wouldn’t recognise me?! When the bottle arrived for me to trial, it immediately appealed to my girly nature with its bright pink packaging. You have to shake bottle to transform the thick gel into a liquid - not hugely time-consuming, but it might be off-putting to those who like to wash and go. It has quite a strong, detergent-type scent when it’s applied, which wasn’t to my liking - but luckily, it didn’t linger. When I first tried the product, I didn’t like the feel of it in my hair - but I quickly found that by spraying it on the under-sections or onto my hands and working through, made it feel less apparent. It was fantastic for adding volume – and although I won’t be trading in my trusted straighteners just yet, I’ll certainly be more open to trying new looks and experimenting when I want to channel a carefree, summery style.
Best for: Creating volume

 

FUDGE SALT SPRAY, £10.95 for 150ml (www.beautyexpert.co.uk)
What they say: A spray for the raw texture look. A medium hold, bodifying salt enhanced texture spray to give dull hair extra body and texture. Not only does it provide protection from UV damage, it also has Provitamin B5 which strengthens and conditions the hair. Leaving the hair with a mango and coconut fragrance, it contains hard setting polymers to give a crisp finish and anti-humidity ingredients to maximise flexibility and hold.
The Results: I loved the fun, quirky packaging - it has a sporty, surfy vibe. When I read the blurb, I was a little worried about the “crisp finish” it promised, as I prefer a natural style. I styled my hair as normal and spritzed the product onto dry hair. I loved the tropical scent, which instantly transported me back to my holiday - even my boyfriend commented - and I was pleased that the product felt so lightweight on hair, with no sticky residue. In a way, this goes against the promise for a crisp finish - but for me, it was definitely a good thing! It certainly helped to define my waves, but I’m not sure how effective it would be for creating curls on those with naturally straight hair.
Best for: Defining waves

 

TOMMYGUNS CLEVER CURLS & WAVES TEXTURE SPRAY, £5.99 for 100ml (www.tommygunshaircare.com)
What they say: Achieve flirty, tousled waves with Clever Curls & Waves Texture Spray. Take a step closer to possessing a Gisele-style mane by simply spritzing this lightweight mist enriched with seaweed extract, vitamins and minerals into towel dried hair and style with your fingertips. Allow your natural wave to be transformed into textured, super-sexy curls.
The Results: I’m not very adventurous with my hair. I tend to stick with salon ranges recommended by my trusted stylist, so I was a bit wary of trying this product. Having been sent the sample to test, however, I have to admit to being impressed with the results. The instructions aren’t particularly clear, but I managed to suss out that it can be used on towel dried hair or styled as you would when creating curls. I decided to use it with Velcro rollers in preparation for a night out. I found it easy to use and loved the unisex fragrance. I don’t think that it would work on my naturally very straight hair without the use of rollers and I still needed to use a root boost to add body - but it held my style really well throughout the evening, despite not feeling sticky at all. I’ll definitely be using this in future in preference to hairspray when I wear my hair in curls.
Best for: Lasting results

 

MARK HILL SEXY WAVES & CURLS RE-ENERGISING CREAM, £5.99 for 150ml (BOOTS NATIONWIDE)
What they say: Have you ever wondered how to get beautiful, soft, frizz-free waves and curls? If so, this lightweight cream is just for you. It gets to work as soon as it touches your hair, re-energising movement and adding definition to naturally wavy, curly or permed hair. The unique combination of natural ingredients help to nourish and rehydrate hair, leaving you with smooth, gorgeous waves and curls every time.
The Results: My blonde hair is naturally thick and wavy - but I was intrigued to see if the spray would give better definition. I’ve never used Mark Hill products before, but I did recognise the brand- I like that their packaging stands out and I thought it was a generous size for the price. The product was easy to use and I liked the scent, although it wasn’t overpowering. I would have preferred clearer instructions on how to use the product, although it did offer handy tips on how to care for my hair type. The spray helped to create a subtle, yet beachy appearance, similar to the way in which my hair looks after I’ve been in the sea. I would recommend the product for those who are city bound and want to recreate the effects of a day at the beach - although as a naturally outdoorsy girl, I have to say that it’s hard to beat the real thing! I’m not the type to carry hair products around with me so I was impressed that the results lasted all day and didn’t drop out, as can be the case with many products aimed at curly hair that I’ve tried in the past.
Best for: Value for money

 

SCHWARZKOPF PROFESSIONAL OSIS DUST IT, £11.70 for 10g (01296 314000)
What they say: Whether you’re a rock chick, alternative trend setter or simply after the perfect salon professional product, OSiS keeps you at the forefront of the latest trends by offering edgy products, unique formulations and inspired consistencies, enabling you to explore and customise your hair to your personality. Dust It is a mattifying, texturising powder which gives incredible root volume - the more you apply, the more control you get!
The Results: When I heard that I’d be testing a wave enhancer, I expected a spray so was surprised and slightly dubious when a container of fine, white powder arrived. The shaker allowed just a little of the powder to be dispensed at a time and therefore avoiding wastage. It’s easy to control where you apply the powder, either by sprinkling on directly or working through hair with hands. Despite my initial concerns, the white powder didn’t show up in my brunette hair. I have naturally wavy hair and rather than defining, I found that the powder added bounce and incredible volume, similar in texture to Cheryl Cole’s style. You can feel the powder in your hair - it’s slightly sticky, which was surprising based on the formula. It also takes a while to wash out, but it’s worth it for the effects. As it’s a powder, it’s great for travel, helping to revitalise unwashed hair and I also think that the formula meant that my hair kept its style longer and didn’t fall flat.
Best for: Reviving hair

Treatment Review: AROMATHERAPY ASSOCIATES PREGNANCY FULL BODY MASSAGE, AT THE TREATMENT ROOMS, BRIGHTON (06.08.10)
What it promises: A specialised massage, providing comfort and relaxation by the application of safe techniques during pregnancy.
What happens: Having escaped from the hustle and bustle of Brighton on a Friday night, I made my way upstairs to the calm serenity of The Treatment Rooms. After completing the all-important information form (are you pregnant – yes!) my masseuse, Tanja, led me to an even more relaxing massage room. As she bathed my feet in warm scented water, the hubbub from outside was gradually drowned out by the soothing tones of calming music. Tanja helped position me on the bed so my bump was supported, and arms and legs relaxed, then the treatment started with a sumptuous back massage using Aromatherapy Associates Renew Rose Massage & Body Oil – the most delicious scent I’ve ever come across. The bed was then raised and I moved onto my back ready for the oils to be worked all the way down my legs and feet, and across my shoulders and arms. The bump even got its own special massage, which the baby seemed to love! Once Tanja had finished working her gentle but firm magic (just the right level for this stage of pregnancy) she led me to the beautifully furnished relaxation room where she propped me up on a lounger and left me to slowly drift back to the real world.
The Results: By the end of the treatment, the stress of the week had completely disappeared and I was totally relaxed. My skin was glowing and hydrated, and I felt none of the achy back or tense shoulders that one is used by the seventh month of pregnancy. My muscles felt loose and tension-free, and I found myself gliding home. Plus, I could smell the rose oil all evening, which meant the feeling of complete relaxation stayed with me. I’ll definitely be investing in a supply to see me through the rest of the pregnancy - and beyond!
Price: £55 for 55 minutes
Location: The Treatment Rooms, 21 New Road, Brighton. BN1 1UF. 01273 818444. www.thetreatmentrooms.co.uk

Feature: INFLIGHT BEAUTY (06.08.10)
Ticket booked? Bikini packed? Passport ready? We’ve asked Founding Editor Louise Emma Clarke to name the beauty products that regularly make it into her hand baggage.

 

NIGHT SERUM
Product: Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex, £38 for 30ml (www.esteelauder.co.uk).
Why? Applying night serum to skin before take-off might seem bizarre, but this rich, intensive serum is my secret weapon for arriving with smooth, moisturised, glowing skin. It feels beautifully silky as it is applied, without being at all greasy, and leaves my complexion supple, soothed, and hydrated throughout the flight.
I can’t explain exactly why it leaves my skin looking and feeling so amazing after a long-haul journey - although the brand explains the science behind it as “Exclusive Chronolux™ Technology, which helps support the natural synchronisation of skin's repair process”- but I am convinced that it not only protects my skin from the moisture-zapping cabin pressure, but also gives it an intensive, pampering treatment as I settle back and watch the in-flight entertainment.
Any alternatives? If you prefer a cream formula, try The Body Shop’s Wise Woman Regenerating Night Cream, £20 (www.thebodyshop.co.uk). It works in a similar way, renewing skin, improving elasticity and firmness, and boosting radiance.

 

ESSENTIAL OILS
Product: Tisserand Survival Kit, £10 (www.tisserand.com).
Why? I’m a big fan of the aromatherapy brand Tisserand – especially their remedy roller balls, which have the power to shift my mood in seconds. Each roller ball contains high-quality organic or ethically-sourced essential oils, for rolling over pulse-points when you need a little pick-me-up.
The brand’s ingenious Survival Kit is perfect for long-haul journeys and rarely leaves my side on board. It contains ‘De-Stress’ to apply pre-flight, ‘Sleep’ to aid rest on board, and ‘Energise’ to give an instant boost on arrival. The kit is lightweight and a real pleasure to use.
Any alternatives? Neal’s Yard Remedies is another brand that I really trust when it comes to aromatherapy – and their Remedies to Roll Set, £14.50, is great value, containing ‘For Energy’, ‘For Night Time’, ‘For Relaxation’ and ‘For Travel’.

 

LIP BUTTER
Product: Nuxe Rêve de Miel Honey Lip Balm, £10 (www.escentual.com)
Why? My lips are always dry, so I rely on intensive lip balms to keep my pout soft and supple at the best of times. On flights, the situation is exasperated by the moisture-sapping atmosphere, so I smother my lips in this incredible lip butter before take off.
It’s so rich and buttery that it only needs to be applied a couple of times during the flight. It absorbs slowly, keeping lips feeling soft and nourished for far longer than other lip balms I’ve tried. In fact, on a night flights I often wake up to find that a layer still on my lips. The price tag of £10 might seem a lot for such a small pot – but believe me, it’s a small price to pay for kissably-soft lips on arrival.
Any alternatives? I also love Eve Lom’s Kiss Mix, £12.50 (www.evelom.com) – it tingles on application, soothing sore or cracked skin and offering long-lasting hydration.

 

TINTED MOISTURISER
Product: Lush Colour Supplements, £7.50 each (www.lush.co.uk)
Why? I rarely venture out without a full face of makeup, but I prefer to leave my skin bare during a flight to allow it to breathe. On arrival, however, I’d never even dream of stepping off the plane without applying some kind of base to my skin. Powder is far too drying, so I stick to tinted moisturisers to even out my skin tone and add a healthy glow.
Lush Colour Supplements are perfect for dry, post-flight complexions. The silky cream can be mixed with moisturiser for a light, glowy look or applied straight to skin (or dotted over blemishes) for heavier coverage. The pots are packed with skin-pampering ingredients, including fresh rose petal infusion, soya oil, and rice bran oil.
Any alternatives? If your budget stretches to it, you can’t go wrong with Crème de la Mer The SPF18 Fluid Tint, £50 (www.cremedelamer.co.uk). The lightweight, velvety cream diffuses light to give the complexion a smooth, youthful appearance.

 

SILK EYE MASK
Product: SILKSKIN Eye Mask, £29 (www.silkskin.co.uk)
Why? I have arrived at too many destinations with imprints on my face after relying on the cheap, tight eye masks provided on board – so since I invested in a SILKSKIN Eye Mask, it has taken up permanent residence in my hand luggage.
It is made of the most beautiful silk – so soft and irresistible that I can’t wait to whip it out of my bag and tie it over my eyes. And – even better – it contains organic lavender to aid sleep. It feels decadent and luxurious, doesn’t absorb face products (so my night serum stays exactly where it should be), and leaves my skin smooth and line-free.
If you know somebody who travels lots, this would be a very welcome gift.
Any alternatives? If you prefer something colourful, Holistic Silk’s lavender filled Sleep Mask, £36 (www.holisticsilk.com) is an equally fabulous buy. It is available in a rainbow of colours, including Aqua, Jade, Pink, Plum, and Rose.

 

RICH HAND CREAM
Product: L’Occitane Shea Butter Travel Size Hand Cream, £7 (http://uk.loccitane.com)
Why? I wouldn’t usually opt for something quite as rich as this Shea Butter Hand Cream, but long-haul flights call for something a little more intensive. The silky cream contains 20% Shea Butter, along with extracts of Honey and Sweet Almond extracts. It also boasts the deliciously light scent of Jasmine and Ylang Ylang, which makes it a real treat to apply.
It doesn’t absorb as quickly as my usual brands of hand cream – but that certainly isn’t a bad thing. It leaves mitts feeling soft, silky, and supple – and, better still, cracked cuticles and rough patches don’t even have the chance to develop.
Any alternatives? Aveda’s iconic Hand Relief is now available in a travel-sized 40ml tube, £5.25 (www.aveda.co.uk). Not quite as thick, but just as nourishing – and the smooth, velvety cream has a totally irresistible scent.

 

Blog: JONATHAN SOONS - OF HEADMASTERS, MAYFAIR – FILLS US IN ON HIS FAVOURITE HAIRCARE TRENDS (06.08.10)
Hair has been my life for 14 years now - and I still can't get enough of it. My job takes me in lots of different directions - from being backstage at fashion week, to life in the salon in Mayfair, to devolving the Headmasters brand and education. I also work along side L'Oreal Seriee Experts on a regular basis.
I believe that the key to haircare is taking care of the simple things first. Getting hair into the best possible condition and producing sleek, stylish hair-cuts are the most important foundations.
I absolutely love high-luxe hair, gorgeous city hair, ‘Gossip Girl’ power hair, and the super sexy Bardo up-do!
I’m always thinking about homecare - and I’m constantly giving little tricks of the trade to my clients to make their hair styling routine easier. From quick and easy up-do's, to blow-drying fringes perfectly, to using rollers properly, and backcombing! I think that the style as a whole is super-important, so I’m constantly scouting for red carpet and catwalk looks that suit my clients.
This week, I’m loving:
Sienna Miller’s Jean Shrimpton fringe – I love a retro look!!!
Fish tale buns - as seen on the runway
Bardo beau big hair - every girl’s dream sex kitten look
The return of the Box BOB, the return of the classics
And the product of the week for me is Air fix from L'Oreal Tec Ni Art. This amazing hair spray is perfect for girls who don’t like many products in their hair. It offers great hold, yet it’s not at all sticky.
For more information about Headmasters, visit http://www.hmhair.co.uk/

 

Editor’s Letter (06.08.10)
Hands up who hates their feet? I certainly do – but this week, I’m sparing a thought for poor Victoria Beckham. A survey – taken my footcare brand Scholl as part of its ‘Keeping Britain on its Feet’ campaign – has revealed that 71 per cent of us think that Posh has the worst celebrity feet, followed by Sarah Brown at 11 per cent. I can’t even visualise Sarah Brown’s feet (why exactly would I?) but the painful image of Posh’s bunions is permanently etched in my mind. The survey goes on to reveal that 67 per cent of us think Victoria should have surgery – but that 76 per cent would be scared to go through the operation ourselves, fearing it would cause disruption to our lives. I’ve never suffered from bunions thankfully, but simply the thought of them makes me wince. Victoria, if you are reading this, it’s time to pluck up the courage to get in touch with the surgeon (not that we’re suggesting you have one on speed dial, of course…)

 

L’Oreal. I haven’t printed Gerard Butler’s picture simply for the fun of it (although I admit that it might have helped this post rise to the top position). The actor has become L’Oreal’s new worldwide spokesman for Men Expert, with the exception of the United States (I’d like to see who beat him to that spot – he must be something quite special…) Gerard is the new face of L’Oreal Paris Men Expert Hydra Energetic Line, which sells over 23 million products worldwide – and I’d lay money on a few more of those products being sold now the Scot is on board. www.loreal.co.uk

 

Firebox. Talking of male grooming, this Beer Soap (£4.99) from Firebox.com made me laugh – especially when I found out that it comes in a choice of fragrances that include Guinness, Kronenbourg, Newcastle Brown Ale, and Stella Artois. Each soap contains lugs of real lager or stout – and whilst I’d never usually encourage my other half to reek of alcohol in the morning (he needs little encouragement for that), I concede that it would make a fun stocking filler or unique birthday gift. www.firefox.com

 

M&S. Quite the other end of the spectrum, the new Hello Kitty London collection at Marks & Spencer is impossibly girly – and I can’t wait to get my hands on it. I love the way the products merge Hello Kitty (cute), with the Union Jack (cool). Top of my list is this brilliant Shower Cap (£5), along with the inspiring Nail Collection (£9.50) and Lip Balm (£2). With pocket money prices, they are certain to be big hits with the small people in our lives too. www.marksandspencer.co.uk

 

Plump & Shine. I’ve got a new favourite lip gloss – Plump & Shine (£24.95), which instantly and visibly plumps up the lips for a fuller, more sensual and defined pout. It tingles a little after appliance, but the results are so quick and dramatic that it is well worth it – and I love the flattering shine and subtle levels of shimmer. I’ve been using Candy (an easy-to-wear pale pink), but it comes in Seduce (bright pink) and Nude (a warm red shade, which accentuates your natural lip colour). 0844 2439243

 

Escentual.com. I’m now writing a weekly guest blog for Escentual.com – so if you want to read more from me (can’t think why, but I’ll give you the option anyway) I’d love you to drop in on a regular basis. My blog is published every Monday – with a selection of recommended products from the site’s amazing beauty-filled online store. This week the subject is cellulite (god forbid). Have a browse and let me know what you think by commenting underneath or emailing me at editor@the-beauty-pages.com - Click here to visit: www.escentual.com/blog/