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Feature: INTENSIVE MOISTURISERS (05.09.08)
Plunging temperatures, howling winds, and cranked-up central heating... It’s only a matter of time. Get ready for the colder months ahead by drenching your skin, body, and hair with a generous dose of intensive moisturisers…
FACE: If the colder months leave your face feeling dry, chapped, and irritated, you are by no means alone. Harsh conditions outdoors weaken the skin’s natural defence barrier, which increases sensitivity. While indoors, central heating literally saps the moisture from the air, leaving skin feeling tight and uncomfortably dry.
The Products
If you don’t exfoliate regularly, now is the time to start. Allowing dead skin cells to build up will vastly reduce the power of your moisturiser, so it’s crucial to keep the surface of the skin polished. Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant, £31 (www.dermalogica.co.uk) would be the perfect choice. The rice-based powder activates on contact with water, releasing Papainn, Salicylic Acid and Rice Enzymes to leave skin smoother and brighter.
Next, choose an intensive moisturiser to penetrate deeply and provide constant hydration. Lancôme Primordiale Skin Recharge, £45 (www.lancome.co.uk) will provide an injection of radiance in the colder months. Skin is left hydrated, refined, and visibly plumped. Sensitive skin will benefit from Eve Lom TLC Cream, £45 (www.spacenk.co.uk) – a super-hero product to calm, soothe redness, and help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Better still, the nourishing texture feels sensational on the skin.For an extra treat, give your skin a weekly boost with NUDE Intensive Moisture Mask, £32 (0800 634 4366). The soothing ingredients of honey, fig, organic cupuacu, and liquorice provide instant relief to even the driest skins.Finally, keep lips supple and smooth with a rich hydrating balm. One of the best is NEOM Tender Loving Care Organic Multi Balm, £12 (www.neomorganics.com). The silky smooth texture is packed with eight protecting and moisture rich organic oils. Apply generously and regularly to keep your pout looking and feeling its best.
EYES: If your eyes are prone to feeling tight and dry in the winter months, there are two courses of action. The first is turning down the central heating, which might not be feasible on the coldest days. The second is swapping to an uber-intensive eye cream and keeping the hydrating eye drops close to hand.
The Products
The elixir of all eye creams has to be Crème de la Mer The Eye Concentrate, £120 (www.cremedelamer.co.uk). The truth is, younger skins don’t need to use such a highly concentrated eye cream 365 days a year – but swapping to this thirst-quenching treat for the colder months is a smart move. The luscious texture instantly hydrates the skin around and under the eyes, soothing tightness, plumping, and counteracting environmental damage.
For an indulgent treat, choose Shiseido Benefiance Pure Retinol Instant Treatment Eye Masks, £49.50 for 12 (www.johnlewis.com). Using pure liquid retinol, the masks energise, hydrate, and pamper tired eyes.
Keep a bottle of rehydrating eye drops in your handbag for when eyes feel uncomfortably dry. One of the best on the market is Blink Intensive Tears Protective Eye Drops, from £1.89 (Available from supermarkets nationwide). One dose will keep your eyes moisturised and soothed for up to 60 minutes…
BODY: What irony… In the summer months, when hemlines rise and necklines drop, we pay scrupulous attention to our skin. When temperatures plunge and our skin needs a generous dose of tender loving care, we hide it away under thick woollies and rarely give it a second thought.
Kick start your quest for perfect skin with a selection of thirst-quenching body care products.
The Products
Firstly, prime your skin with a good body scrub. Clinique Sparkle Skin Body Exfoliating Cream, £16.50 (www.clinique.co.uk) is one of the most indulgent money can buy. Don’t let its rich texture fool you into thinking it’ll do a half-hearted job – hidden exfoliants will work tirelessly to slough away dead skin cells, revealing radiant skin beneath.
Choose the richest moisturising cream that you can find and apply it quickly after your bath or shower to lock in moisture. Origins Shedonism, £25 (www.origins.co.uk) is packed full of hydrating Shea Butter, Coconut Oils, and Sweet Almond. The tempting fragrance of Jasmine, Bergamot and Basil will have you counting down the minutes until your next application.
When skin needs an emergency pick-me-up, there’s only one product to turn to. Chanel Body Excellence Firming & Rejuvenating Cream, £54 (Counters nationwide) will soften the toughest areas, turning dry flaky areas into skin as soft and polished as silk.
Finally, if dry flaky skin on your legs is driving you mad, it’s worth trying This Works: Skin Deep Dry Leg Oil, £32
(www.beautyexpert.co.uk). Combining no less than nine exotic essentials oils, including Evening Primrose Oil, Rosehip Seed Oil, Jojoba Oil, and Peach Kernel Oil, the product penetrates deep within the skin. Pins are left intensely moisturised and boasting an impressive sheen.
HAIR: Split ends… Frizz… Static… Battling with bad hair days during the colder months? You need to hand pick products that will inject moisture, calm flyaway strands, and bring back that familiar shine.
The Products
Push your regular shampoo and conditioner to the side – you need products that are packed to the brim with rich hydrators. Bumble and Bumble Crème de Coco Shampoo, £16, and Conditioner, £16.50 (www.spacenk.co.uk) would be an inspired choice. The luxurious blend of ingredients contains coconut and murumuru butter to help restore moisture, shine, and softness.
The only way to revive severely damaged locks is by investing in a course of intensive treatments. Paul Lebrecque Lemongrass Hair & Scalp Treatment, £25 (www.beautyexpert.co.uk) is a 5 Week Intensive Repair System, designed to rebuild, strengthen and replenish moisture. Each shot of deliciously scented treatment needs to be heated before use, before being tipped over the hair and scalp and left to work its magic for up to 20 minutes.
Once hair has regained its bounce, keep up the moisture levels by regularly applying a rich hair mask. Surya Restorative Hair Mask, £10 (020 7734 1234) uses Preciosa Essential Oil (all the way from the Amazon Rainforest) to deeply condition and add a glossy shine. Its stunning fragrance will cling to hair all day. Dry, coloured hair will benefit from a generous slathering of ESPA Pink Hair & Scalp Mud, £29 (www.espaonline.com). The utterly irresistible rose-coloured mask (mineral rich red and white clay) leaves hair feeling as smooth as silk.
FEET: As soon as the thermometer drops, our feet are sent into hibernation. Hidden away in tights and boots for months on end, the skin is prone to becoming horribly dry and cracked.
Avoid colossal pedicure bills next summer by treating your feet to a regular shot of moisture.
The Products
Let’s face it, nobody wants to spend hours preening their feet when they’re soon going to be hidden away. Avoid the time-consuming task of scrubbing and sloughing dry skin, by using a cream that will double up as an exfoliator. Philosophy Soul Owner Exfoliating Foot Cream, £14 (0870 9908452) contains glycolic acid to get to work on flaky skin and callouses. Quick, easy, and very effective.
Follow up with a thick layer of moisturiser. Saaf Organic Foot Softening Balm, £19.99 (www.saafpureskincare.com) combines cocoa butter, beeswax, and olive oil to banish gnarly dry skin to a distant memory. Better still, the organic balm soothes tired aching feet with Black Seed Oil – massage it generously into feet after a night in skyscraper heels.
HANDS: Cashmere gloves might protect your hands outdoors, but they wont halt central heating indoors from sapping moisture out of the skin when you least expect it. If your hands are prone to becoming dry, sensitive, red, and cracked during the winter months, you need to work hard to keep up hydration levels.
The solution? Keep an intensive hand cream in your bag and dotted in strategic positions around the house – apply often and generously.
The Products
Hand creams don’t get much richer than Ole Henriksen Hands Forward Supercharged Cream, £20 (Available at Harvey Nichols). The silky cream is packed with shea butter to hydrate, plus kojic acid and sunscreen to fade and protect against hyperpigmentation.
Famed for its ability to soften even the driest skin, Aveda Hand Relief, £15.50 (www.aveda.co.uk) will work to exfoliate while also hydrating the skin. You’ll be stunned by how smooth and soft your hands feel after using it, thanks to the vitamin-rich formula containing skin-sloughing fruit acids. The delicious fruity fragrance makes using it a real treat.
Small handbag? Urban Retreat UR Nourished Hand & Nail Cream, £6.95 (www.beautique.com) is small enough to fit in a tiny clutch bag. It might be little, but just a small drop of this ultra-light cream goes a long way. Doses of Sweet Almond and Palm Oil leave hands feeling soothed and softened.
Tried & Tested: PRODUCTS FOR THE BUST (05.09.08)
We’ve tested 6 products that promise to help tone, lift or plump the décolletage and bust…
CLARINS BUST BEAUTY GEL, £35 for 50ml (www.clarins.co.uk)
What they say: Firms, tightens. Recommended after pregnancy or a slimming programme. Rapidly absorbed by the skin.
What we say: A stylish glass bottle containing a transparent amber-coloured gel. The fragrance is light and floral. The pump applicator delivers the perfect amount of product onto hands.
The Results: I'm approaching 30 and have started to notice small wrinkles appearing on my décolletage – not a place I usually pay attention to in my daily skin care routine. I used this product twice daily for a month and have already started to notice that my skin feels firmer and smoother. The gel is cooling when applied and sinks in easily and quickly - no greasiness or stickiness at all and I could put clothes on straight away. I’m definitely going to continue to use this – a little goes a long way so I think it’ll last for a while.
Best for: First signs of wrinkles
PEVONIA RESTORE NECK AND BUST CONCENTRATE, £45.95 for 30ml (01449 727002)
What they say: Intense repairing microemulsified gel. Hydrating and smoothing, counteracts ageing and improves skin elasticity.
What we say: A small glass bottle containing a lightweight gel that sinks instantly into the skin. The pump applicator makes application easy. The product smells like rose petals.
The Results: I’ve started to notice that I’m lacking firmness in the bust area – perhaps because I have recently lost some weight. I used this product once daily for a month, smoothing gently over the décolletage. I loved the light texture of the product, which cooled the skin on contact and didn’t feel at all greasy. My skin is definitely softer and I’ve just started to notice signs of the skin firming up too. I’ll definitely continue to use the concentrate, I can’t wait to see the results after a few more weeks.
Best for: Firming and softening
MATIS PARIS BUST GEL, £24.50 FOR 125ML (01322 290101)
What they say: A fluid and easy to apply gel with firming active ingredients to tighten and tone the delicate breast tissue, increasing elasticity and protecting support fibres for an enhanced bust appearance and bikini-ready bust line.
What we say: A large blue bottle containing a thick white creamy lotion that leaves a subtle sheen on the skin. The cream has a fresh scent and sinks quickly into skin with no stickiness.
The Results: I have lots of concerns about my bust, but the most worrying is that it’s lost its elasticity and definitely needs a good lift. I was dubious that a beauty product could provide any visible results, but after using this cream for the last month (twice a day) I have started to notice a subtle improvement. The first thing I noticed was that the whole area felt far smoother and more hydrated. A few weeks later I noticed that the skin was feeling and looking slightly tighter. I find this product quick and easy to use – it’s definitely staying on my dressing table.
Best for: Tightening skin
ELEMIS PRO-COLLAGEN LIFTING TREATMENT: NECK & BUST, £70 for 50ml (www.timetospa.co.uk)
What they say: Elemis Pro-Collagen Lifting Treatment for Neck And Bust is a revolutionary anti-ageing treatment that is clinically proven to reduce skin crêpiness and increase skin firmness. A powerful solution for slackening skin, minimising the signs of ageing for a smoother, firmer, more youthful-looking neck and bust.
What we say: Slick silver packaging with a side indicator to allow you to gauge how much is left. Looks like a cream, but slips on like a gel. A light refreshing fragrance.
The Results: I’ve been searching for a product that will help to lift my bust, plus improve fine lines and signs of sun damage. I loved using this product – it felt cool, delicate, and deliciously nourishing – and I looked forward to using it every night before bed. After two weeks, I noticed that the delicate bust area looked more hydrated and nourished. After a month, it looked younger, plumper, and firmer. The fine lines were definitely less noticeable.
Best for: Anti-Ageing
THE BODY SHOP BUST FIRMER, £12 for 70ml (www.thebodyshop.co.uk)
What they say: A light, non-greasy serum that sinks into the skin to visibly improve and firm the appearance of the skin around the bust and décolletage. Firms, smoothes and helps to improve skin tone with regular use and helps to improve skin elasticity over time.
What we say: A milky white, lightweight lotion with fresh ocean-fragrance. Cools skin on contact. Sinks quickly into skin and leaves décolletage feeling silky smooth.
The Results: I have very dry skin and have started to notice that my chest looks tight and parched, with fine lines rapidly appearing. When I first applied this lotion I noticed a cooling effect on the skin and a slight tingle. I found it easy to fit into my morning routine – I applied after the shower and was able to dress immediately as there was no greasiness on the skin. After a month, I am incredibly impressed. My skin is far smoother and feels baby soft.
Best for: Dry parched skin
RODIAL BOOB JOB, £125 FOR 100ML (www.asos.com)
What they say: Always dreamed of a fuller bust but dreaded the thought of going under the knife? With Rodial you will see a gradual increase in cup size within 56 days as well as gaining an instant lifting and firming effect.
What we say: A thick silky-smooth lotion that needs to be massaged into skin. Leaves skin feeling incredibly soft. A delicious fruity fragrance.
The Results: I’ve always wished I had a bigger bust, but have lacked the funds and confidence to go under the knife. When I heard about this product, I was desperate to give it a try. I loved the rich cream, which smelt delicious and left my skin feeling beautifully soft. I’ve been using the product now for a month and although there have been no dramatic changes, I have definitely noticed that my bra feels tighter and I’m convinced it is plumping my bust. As a bonus, my skin feels tighter and firmer. The product says to use it for 56 days and I can’t wait to see the results after this time.
Best for: Plumping
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)
By Laura Selway
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)
Visited by Caroline Leeming
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)
By Sarah Clark
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 PURE 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)
By Suzanne Scott
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)
Tested by Louise Emma Clarke
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)
By Samantha Flowers
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)
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…
Breaking News: SARAH JESSICA PARKER LAUNCHES NEW FRAGRANCE (25.07.08)
By Ceri Fox
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)
Visited by Louise Emma Clarke
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…
News: OLAY'S NEWEST LAUNCH SPARKS 20,000 WAITING LIST (18.07.08)
By Ceri Fox
Demand for the latest ‘it’ bag is nothing new, but when we heard the launch of Olay’s Regenerist Daily 3 Point Treatment Cream had led to a stampede stateside and a 20,000 strong waiting list on UK shores, we were more than a little intrigued!
Since its exclusive launch on Boots.com in May, the product dubbed the ’£30 American dream cream’ has already become its fastest selling beauty product of the year, shifting a whopping one a minute in its first week.
Promising to keep skin hydrated for up to 24 hours, it contains the highest level of Olay’s amino-peptide complex, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and giving sagging skin the heave-ho, while restoring elasticity and suppleness. The result? Beautifully soft, smooth and younger looking skin - without having to re-mortgage your house.
Olay Regenerist Daily 3 Point Treatment Cream costs £29.99 for 50ml and is available nationwide now.
Treatment Review: CRYSTAL CLEAR MICRODERMABRASION FOOT TREATMENT (01.07.08)
Tested by Claire Brayford
What it promises: To revitalise and transform dry calloused feet into flip-flop fabulous tootsies. Unlike foot files and scrubs, the microdermabrasion - which sands the skin with a stream of ultra-fine aluminum oxide crystals - will smooth calluses and cracked heels in just one session giving feet a new lease of life.
What happens: I sat down on my very impressive-looking pedicure throne with a sink basin at my feet. The treatment began with a basic pedicure where my nails were carefully filed and shaped. This was followed by the Crystal Clear Microdermabrasion, which was pumped onto the feet front and back, in between the toes and up to the ankles. It gently sanded all the dead skin cells, hard skin and heel fissures and my dry overgrown cuticles were also worked on. Then my feet were soaked in a lovely warm soapy bath and the cuticles pushed back. The therapist dried and filed my feet with a foot file, just to make sure any last trace of hard skin had been removed and to smooth everything off. This was followed by a Crystal Clear Mini Lift Mask to rehydrate the skin. While it got to work, I sat back and enjoyed a delicious massage right up to my knees. Finally the mask was peeled off and my toenails were polished in a colour of my choice.
Results: I hadn’t had a pedicure since last summer so my feet were in desperate need of attention. Afterwards my nails looked like perfectly square glassy gems - instead of the gnarled talons I boasted before. The skin on the tops of my feet appeared visibly more even and smooth and the soles were totally free of hard skin. They were so soft even my boyfriend didn’t mind giving me a foot rub that evening. It was sheer luxury from beginning to end and I left with a definite spring in my step.
Price: £45 for 60 minutes.
Location: Nationwide. Call 08705 934934 or visit www.crystalclear.co.uk.
The Feature: TREND REPORT (25.07.08)
Words by Katy Young
The sun may still be shining, but the beauty industry has moved on... We profile the 6 biggest trends for Autumn/Winter.
THE TREND: SUPERNATURAL SKIN. As seen at: YSL, Prada and Roberto Cavalli (left, courtesy of Max Factor).
The Look: Clean, clear skin is this season’s essential. The trend is all about having great looking skin – not makeup – so a good skin care regime is paramount.
Backstage Kit: Start by using a rich hydrator to plump up skin, then use a base to brighten and even out your complexion. Stick to super light foundation or just a dusting of sheer translucent powder for a bright and sheeny, but not shiny, finish. Try MAC Mineralize Skinfinish (£16.50, www.maccosmetics.co.uk).
Blushers and bronzers have been replaced with light creamy blushers or rosy powders – simply brush over the forehead, cheeks and nose for a flushed but natural look. Try Bobbi Brown Blush in Sandstone (£16, www.bobbibrown.co.uk) or Bourjois Compact Powder in Beige Rose (£7.95, www.bourjois.co.uk).
Keep lips nude or with just a light patting of gloss. Try Max Factor’s Lipfinity Colour & Gloss in Shimmering Pink or Gleaming Coral (£8.99, www.boots.com).
Tip: If you want to give skin an extra boost, try Perfectil Plus Tablets - a complete skin food that clears, brightens and plumps up skin within a couple of weeks. (£8.50, www.vitabiotics.com/perfectil).
TREND: THE POWER BROW. As seen at: Christopher Kane, Givenchy and Paul Costelloe (left, courtesy of B Never Too Busy To Be Beautiful)
The Look: Don’t underestimate the power of the brow. It can shape, update and perfect your face instantly. Keep the shape natural but defined - and go as thick as you can.
Backstage Kit: Firstly, you need a good set of tweezers - try Tweezerman versions, which are fine tuned for a really neat brow shaping (£12, www.boots.com).
Charlotte Matheson, head in house makeup artist for B Never Too Busy To Be Beautiful and creator of the power brows shown at Paul Costelloe’s A/W08 show, advises ditching pencils and instead using a matte eyeshadow and a firm angle brush. She says: “With short brush movements, feather the eyeshadow through the hairs to create a softer, but thicker look”. Charlotte uses B’s pressed eyeshadows ( £8 each, www.bnevertoobusytobebeautiful.com) – for black hair use Beezlebub, for brown hair use OB1, and for fair or red hair use Brogue.
Tip: Put Blink on speed dial. Their threading is the most painless way to achieve perfect brows and the re-growth is half that of waxing or plucking (£15, 07890 078696).
THE TREND: PLAITED HAIR. As seen at: Comme Des Garcons, Gareth Pugh, and Giles (left, courtesy of Toni & Guy).
The Look: There’s a return to the vintage this season, with plaits making their big catwalk comeback. Hair should be tight to the head, with the plait worn high at the back, and should come with a vinyl shine. It’s sleek, gorgeous, and surprisingly sophisticated.
Backstage Kit: Hair need to be poker straight for this look, so first prep your hair with a good blow-dry spray - label.m Blow Out Spray would work perfectly (£8.95, 0845 0708080).
Start by fixing the ponytail high at the back of the head with a non-snag band. After plaiting hair and securing at the end (leave at least an inch of hair below the bottom band), you need a good hairspray to set it. Try the cult favorite L’Oreal Elnet – it’s still around because it works, holding and fixing without the crispiness (£5.49, www.boots.com).
Finish the look with plenty of gloss - a serum or spray both work well. Try Gliss Schwarzkopf Shine Tonic (£2.09, available in Boots and Superdrug).
Tip: Plaits don’t work well on split broken hair. Try sleeping in a hair mask the night before before – it’ll help to smooth, gloss, and repair any damage. A great choice would be Umberto Gianni Overnight Beauty Moisture Balm,(£4.99 www.boots.com).
THE TREND: DARK LIPS. As seen at: YSL, Giles Deacon, Chloe and Miu Miu (left, courtesy of Max Factor).
The Look: For Autumn/Winter, makeup artists painted lips darker than ever. If you are going to wear lip colour this season, it has to come from the modern rainbow.
Backstage Kit: Colours can vary from the richest scarlet (try YSL’s Rouge Volupte in 17, £20, 01444 255700), to the deepest plum (try Rimmel’s Lasting Finish Intense Wear Lipstick in Bordeaux, £3.99, www.rimmellondon.com) through to the darkest shade of black cherry (try MAC Spice It Up!, £11, www.maccosmetics.co.uk). Apply with a brush for catwalk-worthy perfection.
Finish your look with a clear gloss - NARS Lip Gloss in Triple x (£17, www.spacenk.co.uk) comes highly recommended.
Tip: Dark colour only sits well on soft, buffed lips, so invest in a good lip scrub - try Sarah Hap's The Lip Scrub (£19.95, www.sarahhapp.co.uk). It comes in five edible flavours and is the perfect blend for smoothing lips without the scratch. We’re hooked on the Brown Sugar scrub.
THE TREND: THE EXTRAVAGANT EYE. As seen at: Balenciaga, YSL, Lagerfeld, Givenchy and Victor and Rolf (left, courtesy of Max Factor).
The Look: The smoky eye never goes away, but this season it’s more extravagant than ever. The new eye is dark, fierce and utterly beautiful. Makeup artists lined, painted and shadowed eyes in gorgeous slate, charcoal, carbon and metal hues – with sometimes just a touch of shimmer. The abstract black eye needs sharp edging with clean, graphic lines – there’s absolutely no smudging or blending to be done on these dark gothic colours.
Backstage Kit: Keep pigment strong and intense - MAC Eye Shadow in Carbon (£10, www.maccosmetics.co.uk) is the perfect choice. If you want to lighten the effect add a touch of silver and white painted on the inside of the lower lid - try L’Oreal Colour Appeal in Platinum Real Silver (£4.99, www.boots.com).
Finish with plenty of lengthening blacker than black mascara - Max Factor’s Masterpiece MAX Mascara is perfect for this look (£9.99, www.boots.com).
Tip: Use an eye base too – it holds the makeup for longer and stops the colour creasing. We love Laura Mercier’s Eye Basics eye primer (£18, www.spacenk.co.uk).
THE TREND: METAL NAILS. As seen at: Julian Macdonald, Galliano, Dior, and Chanel (left, courtesy of Chanel Beauty).
The Look: Throw away those summer brights. There’s only one way to wear your nails this season – glossy, glamorous, and metallic.
Backstage Kit: Think of nails as your little jewels, matching, not clashing, with clothes. For shape follow your natural curve and keep them longer than last season (they should peek just over the edge of the finger tip).
Choose cool metallic shades and washes of Grecian bronze. For a soft sparkling gold, try Essie Polish in Golden Nuggets (£8.50, www.nailsbymail.co.uk). For an achingly-cool solid silver, choose Leighton Denny Nail Colour in Silver Metallic (£10, www.leightondenny.co.uk).
Tip: This Autumn/Winter season is fake tan free, so paler skins should stick to cooler shades of gold, which look less brassy. Try Chanel’s Le Vernis in Kaleidoscope (£14.50, 020 7493 3836) – it’s your perfect metallic one-fits-all polish.
Tried & Tested: LIP PLUMPERS (25.07.08)
PURELOGICOL INSTANT LIP PLUMPER, £20 (www.purelogicol.com)
What they say: This advanced DNA repair formula instantly plumps whilst enhancing colour and definition. The breakthrough MVS lips nano technology combines phospolipids, liquorice root, and soybean extract, which boosts collagen and glycoprotein. HA Microspheres, plant collagen and Vitamin E hydrate, soothe and nourish. The Results are fuller, healthier, younger-looking lips.
What we say: Stylish white and silver packaging, containing a clickable treatment pen. The silky white balm has a strong fragrance initially, but it disappears on application. Lips feel like they’ve been injected with moisture – smooth, soft and totally hydrated – and are left with a subtle sheen.
Results: I’ve used a few lip plumpers in the past, but was intrigued to try something new and innovative. I loved the way the product cooled and refreshed my lips when I first applied it, like a soothing lip-balm, and only noticed a slight tingle. My lips, which are usually very pale, instantly had a lovely rose-tinted flush. They definitely looked fuller and smoother. But the biggest positive for me was the longevity of the results – hours later they still looked and felt fuller.
Best for: Long-term results
URBAN DECAY BIG FATTY LIP PLUMPER, £10 (www.asos.com)
What they say: Experience psychedelic results. Increases lip size for up to a 20% fuller pout. Plumping effect starts within 10 minutes and lasts up to 3 hours. Lips get noticeably more pink.
What we say: A clear gloss with gold sparkles and a strong fruity fragrance. The texture is thick, giving it great staying power. With its fun colourful packaging, it’s not a product that will get lost easily in the bottom of your handbag.
The Results: Immediately after applying the gloss, my lips started to dramatically tingle. This reassured me that something was happening. Two minutes later I looked in the mirror and noticed my lips had definitely got plumped, plus had a gained a deeper colour. The results lasted until the gloss had wiped off. The gold glitter makes it a bit glamorous for everyday wear, but it’s perfect for a night out.
Best for: A night out
BY TERRY LIP EXPERT HYDRA-SHINE GLOSS, £20 (www.spacenk.co.uk)
What they say: This ‘maximising’ gloss is filled with moisturising, plumping, and collagen-boosting active ingredients which redefine the lip’s shape and enhance them with volumising, ultra-shiny shades.
What we say: From the moment you set eyes on the stylish purple packaging, this product screams luxury. The sweetly-scented gloss is applied easily and precisely with a brush. The texture is light – not sticky like other glosses – and leaves a gorgeous shimmer on lips.
The Results: I’ve never used a lip plumper before and wasn’t sure what to expect. After applying the gloss, my lips felt slightly tingly, but it wasn’t at all uncomfortable. Quite quickly, my lips started to feel fuller and when I looked in the mirror they looked plumper too. The effect lasted until the gloss had worn off, but it had great staying power so this was at least an hour. I’d recommend this gloss for wearing during the day – it gives a gorgeous subtle colour.
Best for: Daytime wear
CHAMPNEYS SUPER PLUMPING LIP GLOSS, £7.50 (www.sainsburys.co.uk)
What they say: Get plumper lips in seconds with this triple action gloss. Instantly lips are conditioned thanks to moringa seed oil which together with the hi-shine gloss, delivers fuller looking lips. Then, a lip tingling ingredient derived from tree resin stimulates the lips to gently swell them. Finally, with continued use, Maxlip increases lip volume by boosting collagen.
What we say: A clear gloss with a non-sticky texture, which glides smoothly and precisely onto lips. Lips look shiny and feel hydrated. The gloss is unfragranced and comes in classic white packaging.
The Results: After applying the gloss to my lips I started to notice a gentle tingling sensation, which lasted for about 5 minutes. I instantly noticed that my lips looked fuller than usual – the change was subtle, but definitely there. My boyfriend even noticed the difference! I’ve used lip plumpers in the past, but they’ve dried my lips out – this gloss was the opposite, leaving my lips feeling lovely and moisturised.
Best for: Moisturising dry lips
PIXI BEAUTY LIP BOOSTER, £14 (www.pixibeauty.com)
What they say: A maximising lip gloss to instantly treat & restore lip vitality. Provides maximum hydration and helps restore collagen, adding volume to improve lip contour. The gloss improves lip fullness 40%, decrease lines 30% and improves lip moisture 60%.
What we say: A light gloss that instantly makes lips feel silky smooth. The stylish tube, with a brush end for appliance, contains a generous supply of gloss. The gloss is available in 12 different shades, each with a pleasantly fruity scent. A little goes a long way – one brush and lips are left looking beautifully shiny.
The Results: I have fallen in love with this product. I adore the light texture of the gloss, which stays put far longer than other products I’ve tried. My lips didn’t tingle, but I could feel them pulsing slightly as they plumped. The effect was intensified by the shine of the gloss, which made the lip surface look much smoother and more hydrated. The effect is quite dramatic, but wears off as soon as the gloss disappears.
Best for: Dramatic plumping
MARKS & SPENCER FORMULA INSTANT FIX LIP PLUMP, £7.50 (www.marksandspencer.com).
What they say: Re-sculpts the appearance of lips, correcting imperfections and smoothing fine lines and feathering. Delivers long-lasting moisture to leave lips nourished, fuller and firmer.
What we say: A moisturising cream in a small squeezable tube, which looks and smells like a regular lip balm. The packaging is simple, but classic. The product sinks quickly into skin, leaving lips feeling silky smooth. Lips are left with a subtle sheen.
Results: I was surprised by how gentle this lip plumper was – no stinging or tingling whatsoever. My lips felt hydrated and silky smooth. I used to have fuller lips, but they’ve got thinner as I’ve got older and have developed a few fine lines. I usually try and hide them with lipstick. I love this product – it smoothed the surface of the lips, making them look plumper and younger. I’ll keep this in my handbag for top-ups throughout the day.
Best for: Anti-ageing lip care
Spa Review: FACE PLACE (01.07.08)
Visited by Louise Emma Clarke
Location: Cloisters Mall, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey KT1 1RS. 0208 5464460 www.face-place.co.uk
Facilities: Take a few steps away from the bustling shopping streets of Kingston upon Thames and you will stumble upon a gem. FACE PLACE, a spa dedicated to your face, impresses from the offset with its stylish bloom-filled reception area. As you are led into the deceptively large spa within, decorated in rich chocolate browns and muted greens, you will instantly feel the tension in your shoulders loosen. Every luxury has been arranged, with spacious individual changing rooms, fluffy white gowns and slippers supplied for every guest, and a product-packed ‘hair bar’ for fixing post-treatment tresses. There are six signature facials on offer using beauty products by SESHA, each designed to be simple yet brilliantly effective. The therapists take time to understand your skin, both through analysing your skin care routine and concerns, and through a closer look under lights at the beginning of your treatment. The service feels professional and very personal.
Ambience: FACE PLACE is somewhere to come on your own for a few hours of ‘me time’. I found the spa tranquil, stylish, and very luxurious. When I arrived, my mind was racing with the stresses of work. When I left, I was so relaxed I abandoned my afternoon plans and rewarded myself with a much-needed afternoon nap.
Treatment Tested: FACE PLACE Signature, £95 for 90 mins
Unusually for a facial, I started my treatment at a footbath. Feet were treated to exfoliation, massage, and a generous slathering of moisturiser, before being placed back into my slippers and led to the treatment room. After looking carefully at the condition of my skin, a gentle flow of steam was directed over my face, while the therapist started a deep cleanse, tone and exfoliation. Next came a thorough extraction, followed by an eyebrow shape, eyelash tint, and eyebrow tint. While a cooling gel mask worked its magic, I enjoyed a hand, arm, and shoulder massage. The therapist then moved the massage onto my face and, to finish, applied a rich moisturiser and hydrating eye-cream. I left the salon with my skin glowing, eyelashes and eyebrows looking better than ever, and my next appointment firmly penned in the diary.
News: THIS WEEK ONLY... FREE MAKEUP LESSONS AT BOBBI BROWN (24.07.08)
By Ceri Fox
Who wouldn’t jump at the chance to have a lesson from one of Bobbi’s Brown’s elite team of makeup artists? Not us, that’s for sure. We’ll be hot-footing it to Selfridges on London’s Oxford Street this week, where the team will be on hand to meet customers and give them a sneak preview of the gorgeous new autumn Mauve Collection.
The range includes a sleek Face Palette, two Lip Colours, and three Lip Glosses, as well as a dinky Mini Brush Set and beautiful Long Wear Eyeliner in Black Mauve Shimmer Ink – perfect for creating dazzling ‘look-at-me’ peepers.
During the free 45-minute lesson, a Bobbi Brown artist will show customers how to use the new colours, share top tips and reveal insider tricks to help you get an ultra-professional finish.
See you in the queue, ladies!
To book your free makeup lesson, available exclusively at the Bobbi Brown counter at Selfridges London until 30th July, call 020 73183468.
News: BEAUTY GADGET WELLBOX SELLS OUT IN JUST 2 DAYS (10.07.08)
By Samantha Flowers
Having achieved cult status in America, the beauty gadget everyone is talking about has sold out at London store Harrods within 48 hours of its arrival in the UK.
Wellbox might look like a cross between a vacuum cleaner and a foot spa, but use it to pummel your flabby bits for just 6 minutes a day and experts say you should expect a body worthy of an A-lister in no time.
Emulating Endermologie, the original in-salon body sculpting treatment, fat cells are stimulated and micro circulation is boosted. Massage it over the targeted area and trapped fat cells resistant to diet and exercise are released through lypolytic activity, whilst gentle micro-pulsations give skin an effective toning workout to smooth out cellulite and reduce body size by inches.
But that’s not all this box of tricks has to offer! With a quick change of treatment head it’s said to iron out lines and wrinkles, improve scar tissue and plump up lips Angelina style!
Got some spare cash to flash this summer? Get yourself down to Harrods where they’ve just been restocked. Wellbox costs an eye-watering £1000, but invest and you can be sure your friends will be knocking on your door in a few minutes flat. The gadget is exclusive to Harrods in the UK. Call 0207 7301234 for more details.
The Feature: SCENT YOUR SUMMER (18.07.08)
THE WEEKEND: Looking for a perfume to scent your summer? Your first priority is deciding where you will be wearing it...
It’s the weekend. You’ve kicked off your high-heels, left your makeup to a bare minimum, and pulled on your comfiest pair of wide-leg jeans. It’s time to welcome in 48 hours of ‘me time’ with a perfume that echoes your laid-back look.
Your fragrance needs to be fun and light-hearted, especially during the warmer summer months. Heavy musks are out, fruity florals are in. The trick to wearing perfume at the weekend is to keep the application light – try spritzing a fine mist onto clothes, rather than wearing directly on your skin.
The Perfumes
- DKNY Summer, £29 for 100ml (08700 342 566), is the perfect weekend choice. The fragrance is evocative of a delicious fruit cocktail - take a deep breath and you will pick up hints of ripe redcurrants, cassis, mandarin oranges and perhaps even a splash of chilled vodka.
- The lively notes of Space NK Laughter, £35 for 50ml (www.spacenk.co.uk) couldn’t fail to bring a smile to your face. The uplifting blend of lime, rosemary, and juniper is complimented by an unexpected bite of spicy ginger. It’s a scent that makes even the most mundane weekend chores a pleasure.
- Burberry Summer, £27 for 50ml (available nationwide), combines zingy citrus notes (mandarin, bergamot and grapefruit) with the crisp juiciness of green apple. With floral heart notes and musky bottom notes, the fragrance has a sophisticated edge without ever feeling heavy. The ideal choice for an off-duty fashionista.
A BIG NIGHT OUT: Big night out planned? The right perfume will work in partnership with your outfit to boost your confidence and create lasting impressions.
It’s tempting to douse yourself in a heavy scent before a night on the tiles (we’ve been doing it since our teenage years after all), but balmy summer nights call for something slightly lighter. Fruity fragrances can still be surprisingly sexy, especially when they have rich notes of rose, jasmine and red berries.
The Perfumes
- Escada Moon Sparkle, £20 for 30ml (www.boots.com) is a fragrance perfectly suited to summer nights on the town. Sweet raspberry and blackberry notes are blended with a refreshing citrus and apple cocktail to create a scent that is fresh, exciting, and incredibly sexy.
- If you want to top up your scent throughout the evening - Eau de Toilette only lasts on average 3 hours after all - choose Carolina Herrera 212 Splash, £29.50 for 60ml (0207 494 6220). The fun fragrance, with a floral heart of mandarin, jasmine and rose, consists of two handbag-sized 30ml bottles.
- Like your evening to have a touch of the exotic? Liberally apply Dior Addict 2 Summer Litchi, £24.99 for 50ml (www.theperfumeshop.com) before stepping out the front door. The fragrance pays homage to the lychee fruit, which has a hint of the scent of a fresh rose. The perfume is unique, uplifting and very glamorous.
THE OFFICE: If the nearest you’ll get to spending the day in the sunshine is by shifting your desk a little closer to an open window, you need to choose a fragrance that brings summer flooding into your office.
Your work perfume needs to strike a careful balance – it needs to be grown-up and sophisticated enough for the most formal boardroom, while being evocative enough to perk up your mood with memories of past sun-drenched holidays.
The Perfumes
- Missoni Giallo, £45 for 75ml (08700 342 566) is a stylish choice for the office. Like all of Missoni’s fragrances, it oozes elegance – but with vibrant notes of the Mediterranean fruits Lemon and Nespolo, the scent is also powerfully uplifting. Forget the work canteen – one sniff of this and you’ll be immediately transported to an Italian café, sipping cappuccinos alfresco-style.
- Elizabeth Arden Mediterranean Breeze, £35 for 50ml (available nationwide) is the perfume equivalent of a Chanel jacket – you couldn’t fail to take somebody seriously while they’re wearing it. With base notes of cedarwood and skin musks, the fragrance has a sophistication perfectly suited to the office. Add to that the livelier notes of nectarine, bergamot and grapefruit, and the scent becomes reminiscent of a warm breeze on a summer day - the perfect pick-me-up for long afternoons at your desk.
- YSL Cinema Scénario D’été, £40.50 for 90ml (01444 255700) combines sun-kissed zesty notes of orange, lime and tangerine with richer hints of amber and musk. The fragrance has great staying-power - it won’t flag during the 9-5, even if you do. Wear every day or keep the bottle on your desk and apply when you need a boost to spirits or confidence.
THE GREAT OUTDOORS: Summer is all about the great outdoors – impromptu BBQs when the sun decides to shine, lazing in the park with good friends and a jug of pimms, dressing up in pretty dresses and impractical heels for a posh garden party, days in big hats at the races…
You’ve got the outfits sorted, but what about the perfume? There’s one simple rule for the great outdoors - take inspiration from your surroundings with a scent that is fabulously fresh and floral.
The Perfumes
- B Never Too Busy To Be Beautiful Keep It Fluffy, £40 for 65g (www.bnevertoobusytobebeautiful.com) is made to be worn outdoors with fabulous ditsy-floral dresses, high heels, and the biggest sunglasses you can find. Unashamedly feminine, the scent combines vanilla with jasmine, ylang absolute, orris root and a touch of rose. Once discovered, it will soon become your new best friend.
- The zesty fragrance of Prescriptives Calyx Exhiltarating Fragrance, £39 for 50ml (0870 0342566) is ideal for a day spent outdoors. The scent combines a blend of fruit notes (passion fruit, mango, papaya, and guava) with a deeply floral heart (neroli, rose, lily, jasmine and marigold). The scent is also available in a handy 15ml atomiser, which will fit into the tiniest clutch bag.
- Looking for something unique? One sniff of Pixi Fig Eau de Parfum, £26 for 30ml (www.pixibeauty.com) and you will be hooked. With the delicious green scent of fig, a fruit celebrated for 2000 years for its health and skin care benefits, the perfume initially smells fresh and zingy. As it sits on the skin, you’ll detect a gorgeous woody twist – the perfect compliment to your alfresco surroundings.
A ROMANTIC DINNER DATE: Whether he’s new on the scene or practically part of the furniture, a hot date requires a scent that will make you smell and feel utterly irresistible. Like the night itself, your perfume needs to be romantic, long-lasting, and uncomplicated.
For warmer summer evenings, try spritzing the scent onto freshly-washed hair. An alluring cloud of fragrance will follow you around all night.
The Perfumes
- Wear Ghost Sweetheart, £42 for 75ml (www.boots.com) and you can guarantee he’ll find it hard to forget you. The summery scent is fresh, floral and oriental. Opening with fresh notes of sweet lemon, pineapple and spearmint, the perfume is quickly followed by a dreamy haze of white flowers. In the base, sensual and woody notes create a lingering impression of romance.
- Perfume doesn’t get much sexier than Bobbi Brown Almost Bare, £45 for 50ml (www.bobbibrown.co.uk). The fresh floral fragrance features a delicate balance of Italian bergamot and violet leaves to relax and soothe the senses. The scent is enhanced by a hint of jasmine petals - nature’s greatest aphrodisiac – and the enduring sophistication of warm amber.
- Jean-Charles Brosseau Ombre Rose L’Original, £54 for 100ml (01524 762611) is a simple, sober and timeless fragrance that will quickly charm your lucky dinner date. Its initial flowery, sweet tones of iris, lily of the valley, ylang-ylang and honey, give way to the suave warmth of peach, sandalwood and musk. One sniff and the gorgeous Art Deco style bottle will become a regular fixture on your dressing table.
A SUMMER WEDDING: You’ve just received an invite to a big summer wedding. Your thoughts instantly turn to your wardrobe, but what about your perfume? A wedding calls for something more lavish, but overpowering the scent of the carefully-selected flower arrangements is not an option.
Stick to floral fragrances, which work well on hot summer days, but make sure it has a warm musky base to keep it formal and sophisticated enough for the big day.
The Perfumes
- Amouage Ciel Woman, £110 for 50ml (www.amouage.com) is the ultimate indulgence in fragrance and will work fabulously at even the most formal ceremonies. The perfume is bursting with rich floral scents, including water lily, rose and jasmine. With the added intensity of silver frankincense and sensual woods, it is designed to reflect the warmth of the hot summer sun.
- The perfect choice for stylish city weddings is Chloé Eau de Toilette, £35 for 30ml (www.theperfumeshop.com). Classic ingredients, such as rose petals and honeysuckle, have been transformed into a surprisingly modern and vibrant scent with the help of rich notes of sandalwood, amber, and musk. The 30ml bottle is great for top-ups throughout the day, fitting easily into any handbag.
- Penhaligon’s Ellenisia Eau de Parfum, £60 for 50ml (www.penhaligons.co.uk) is ideal for outdoor summer weddings. Close your eyes and you can picture the bouquets of gardenia, jasmine and tuberose. Added to the addictive scent is plum nectar, violet and mandarin – with rich vanilla for warmth. Romantic, luxurious, and elegant.
Tried & Tested: Fake Tan (18.07.08)
CLARINS DELICIOUS SELF-TANNING CREAM, £19.51 for 125ml (www.clarins.co.uk)
What they say: Delicious by name, delicious by nature. A fool-proof, quick-dry dream of a self-tanning cream for face and body, starring Cocoa bean extract.
What we say: Unusually for fake tan, this product comes in a pot. A hybrid between a cream and a gel, it cools and refreshes the skin on contact. A light tint makes appliance easy and the product dries quickly on the skin. The hint of chocolate and vanilla in the fragrance is a welcome addition.
Results: I have dark skin, but rely on fake tan in the summer months to make me feel and look a touch healthier. This product started developing quickly, within just a few hours. The colour was quite subtle, so it wasn’t a huge transformation, but I had a new healthy glow. I would recommend the product for topping up an existing tan, covering bikini strap marks after a holiday, or making yourself look subtly sunkissed.
Best for: Topping up a tan
LANCÔME FLASH BRONZER SELF-TANNING MAGIC MOUSSE, £20 for 150ml (www.lancome.co.uk)
What they say: Tan in a flash, no sun required! Discover the magical texture of this feather-light, self-tanning mousse. The subtly tinted, velvety-smooth formula is easy-to-apply to go on smoothly and evenly, for an instant visible glow that leaves your skin looking naturally tanned in a flash!
What we say: A tinted mousse that gives instant colour to the skin. The light texture and pleasant perfume-like fragrance make using this product a real pleasure. The stylish gold spray-can makes the process very quick and easy.
Results: Although I have quite dark skin naturally, it definitely needs a lift in the summer so I regularly use fake tan. I loved this mousse and would definitely recommend it. I applied it in the evening and noticed the colour developing after just an hour. The next morning, the colour was deep and completely streak-free.
Best for: Darker skins
PRESCRIPTIVES SUNSHEEN CUSTOM COLOUR TINTED SELF TANNER, £27 for 125ML (0870 0342566)
What they say: Start with a tint, end with a tan. A natural looking radiant colour develops gradually over 24 hours, deepening with each application. The ultra-silky texture leaves skin satin smooth with a golden glow. SPF15 helps protect against sun’s harmful rays.
What we say: A silky smooth caramel-coloured cream that sinks quickly into the skin. The product gives instant colour, which makes appliance very easy. Skin is dry very quickly and, despite being tinted, never transfers to clothing or bed linen. Luxurious packaging.
Results: I have fair skin and have been looking for a fake tan that gives a light colour and can be built up gradually. This was the perfect product for me. The first layer was very light, but provided a good base. The second gave me a sun-kissed glow. There were no streaks and my skin feels beautifully moisturised. I will be using it every day, in place of my usual moisturiser.
Best for: Using every day
ELEMIS TOTAL GLOW SELF TANNING CREAM, £21 for 125ML (www.timetospa.co.uk)
What they say: Extracts of nourishing Macadamia Nut Oil from Hawaii’s tropical shores leave the skin beautifully golden, whilst enriching nutrients and amino acids guard against free radical damage. An exotic aroma embodies the skin. Two or three hours after your application you will look sun-kissed!
What we say: A mosturising self-tanning cream with a delicious sweet fragrance. The product is non-tinted, so doesn’t give an instant colour, and needs to be massaged into the skin. It can be used on its own or added to your usual moisturiser for a subtle glow. The packaging is sleek and stylish.
Results: I’ve never used fake tan before, so was quite scared to use a non-tinted product. However, I am very impressed with the results. The soft glow to my skin was subtle, but there were absolutely no streaks. I felt confident enough to build the tan with another application and loved the results. I was scared I’d turn orange, but have instead developed a natural-looking golden tan
.
Best for: First time tanning
PALMER CUTLER SELF-TANNING MOUSSE, £32 for 200ML (www.asos.com)
What they say: A moisturising, streak-free self-tanning mousse to achieve a golden tan all year round without sun exposure. Contains vitamins to optimise the healthy look of skin.
What we say: A light untinted mousse that instantly sinks into the skin and requires no drying time. The product has a strong fragrance initially, but instantly fades to nothing as it is absorbed. A large bottle will that easily last you the whole summer.
Results: The typical English rose, I have tried several fake tans over the years, usually with disastrous results. The colour took about 4 hours to develop to a subtle and even golden brown, which suited my skin tone perfectly. There were no streaks – even on knees and elbows that have turned orange in the past after applying fake tan. I was using the light-medium mousse and would recommend this product for a natural healthy glow - if you are going for the ‘just back from Barbados’ look, you might want to opt for the medium-dark.
Best for: Pale skins
BEAUTYLAB PEPTIDE TANNING, £17 for 150ml (www.beautylab.co.uk)
What they say: A natural, streak-free all year summer glow can be achieved with this moisturising and firming face and body tan formula. Unlike the sun, peptide tanning inhibits the formation of pheomelanin whilst increasing the formation of eumalinin to produce a deep, dark even tan.
What we say: A cream with a dark brown tint, which makes applying an even coverage a doddle and gives instant colour to the skin. The product has no fragrance on application, but a distinctive self-tanning scent as it develops. The stylish pump bottle makes applying the cream a quick and mess-free experience.
Results: I have very pale skin and am quite scared of fake tan, sticking usually to gradual tanning moisturisers for lighter skins. I am seriously impressed with this product. It has given me a tan worthy of a month spent in the Carribbean, with no streaks whatsoever. It’s a darker colour than I usually dare to go, but I’m now hooked and will be using this throughout the summer!
Best for: A deep tan for all skin tones
Breaking News: BOBBI BROWN'S BRONZED PINK COLLECTION HITS SHELVES (04.07.08)
Bobbi Brown’s latest summer collection – Bronzed Pink – has become an instant success after hitting shelves earlier this week. The range, a stunning mix of soft pinks and sizzling metallics, lends a sensational sheen to every skin tone for the summer months ahead.
The collection, which includes a Light Bronzer, Tinted Lip Balm, Crystal Lip Gloss and Metallic Eye Shadow, is available in stores and online.
Bobbi Brown says of her inspiration “I wanted to create the look skin gets when you’ve been on holiday. The shades in the Bronzed Pink Collection warm up the skin and give it a pretty glow’.
The Metallic Eye Shadow, a collection highlight, comes in two high-shimmer shades - Bronzed Pink and Penny. Both apply smoothly and evenly, stay crease-free for long-lasting wear, and cost just £14 each (www.bobbibrown.co.uk).
Breaking News: THE CLEAVAGE FACIAL TAKES LONDON BY STORM (01.07.08)
Ark Health & Beauty’s newest treatment, The Cleavage Facial, is currently sweeping London as the ‘must have’ treatment of the summer.
Celebrities across the pond regularly pamper their cleavages to ensure they look delectable in glamorous necklines. Back in the UK, Londoners are flocking to the salons to ensure they have the same glow to their décolletage for the summer months ahead.
The treatment involves cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturising the face, neck and chest with rose oil-based products. Wrinkles are smoothed and the skin is left firmer and more hydrated. A soothing massage around your decolletage improves lymphatic drainage around the area, leaving your cleavage looking better than ever and ready to be flaunted.
Want to join the rush? The Cleavage Facial costs £75 and is available in all of Ark’s four branches; Wimbledon, Putney, Fulham and Holland Park. To book, call 020 8788 8888 or visit www.arkhealthandbeauty.com.
Treatment Review: BIOLUSTRE HAIR TREATMENT, BROOKS & BROOKS SALON (01.07.08)
Tested by Betty Skinner
What it promises: To restore elasticity and increase the hair’s strength by 300% using a unique Keratin protein that is chemically similar to hair. The restructuring treatment actually enters the hair shaft and binds itself to the cortex so that it repairs damage in just one session. Dubbed as the collagen treatment for hair – it is particularly recommended for chemically-damaged tresses, anyone who regularly uses straightening-irons or even has hair extensions.
What’s happens: First my hair was washed with Biolustre Release Clarifying Shampoo to remove any product build up. It was then rough-dried to open the cuticles and allow the product to fully penetrate. The stylist then divided my hair into sections, coated each one with the Biolustre Reverse Instant Repair treatment and then twisted them to make sure every inch was covered. I then sat under a heat lamp for 20 minutes to activate the treatment and enjoy a spot of lunch. Once dry, my hair was washed with the Biolustre Maintenance Treatment shampoo, finished with Biolustre Renew Conditioning Sealant and a nice head-massage, and finally blow-dried into a glamorous finish. It is certainly not one to have in your lunch hour – the treatment and full blow dry took 2 hours.
Results: I have what I like to call horsehair – it is thick, dull and wiry with quite a lot of grey. I have never been able to run my fingers through it easily and it has never really shone. But after this treatment I had the salon-beautiful hair I always dreamt of. It smelt delicious, was light, glossy and expensive-looking with no heaviness or greasiness – all I wanted to do was stroke it and swish it. The only draw-back I found was the salon itself was quite a busy and bustling so it is not ideal if you want a quiet relaxing retreat, but the staff were incredibly friendly and accommodating so I would definitely recommend it – especially as the results are said to last until my next chemical treatment.
Price: £45 for roughly 2 hours
Location: 15 Sicilian Avenue, Holborn, London. Call 020 7405 8111 or visit www.brooksandbrooks.co.uk.
Feature: Best of British (words by Katy Young) (11.07.08)
We take a closer look at six homegrown beauty brands proud to be flying the British flag. Who ever thought that beauty could be so patriotic?
LIZ EARLE:The best heroes are local heroes, which is probably why Liz Earle’s Naturally Active Skincare has quickly become the biggest independent beauty brand in the UK.
The brand was born when co-founders Liz Earle and Kim Buckland came together with a common goal – to create a range of body and skin care products that were fuss-free and packed with potent botanical ingredients to achieve great skin, without any of the nasties that were rapidly coming under beauty scrutiny (chemical sunscreens, certain preservatives, mineral oils, animal ingredients, and genetically-engineered ingredients).
They answered their own wishes with the creation of one very British beauty brand producing seriously good ‘perfect skin’ getters (cleansers, polishers, hydrators and smoothers) from their gorgeous headquarters at Biskra Beach on the Isle of Wight. Thirteen years later and their ‘Precious Recipe’ (a blend of great customer service, an uncompromising skin care philosophy, and a clever approach to the environment and support of local business) has earned them a cult following.
If you haven’t tried it yet, kick start your Liz Earle addiction with Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser (£12.25 for starter pack)- it now gives that English rose glow to girls in 82 countries around the world.
Visit www.lizearle.com
SPACE NK:Changing the beauty market isn’t easy, which is why Space NK has made it to our Best of British top six. Set up by Nicky Kinnaird in 1993, the first Space NK store in Covent Garden shifted the way we shop for our beauty products forever. Nicky, originally a sought-after retail consultant, cherry-picked products from her worldwide travels – particularly across America, the Far East and Europe - and showcased them all under one of the slickest roofs the high street had seen.
The concept began as a beauty, fruit juice, and fashion store (Anya Hindmarch bags took up residence here); but beauty-buying soon eclipsed the smoothies and clothes rails. Nicky made beauty popular and, moreover, cool. Her vision for niche brands (such as skin gurus Eve Lom, Dr Sebagh and By Terry) is still unparalleled; if it’s in Space NK it’s good enough for our beauty kits.
Britain’s beauty junkies, editors and experts love Space NK for it’s forward-thinking modern products, exclusivity and genius, but impartial, advice. The 55-strong Space NK store empire has recently made its way across the pond to the States – proving that Britain definitely does it best.
Top Tip? Book in for one of Space NK’s famous complimentary makeovers. The trained makeup artists in store will know exactly what textures and finishes will benefit your skin needs. With a treasure chest of brands to choose from, you’ll end up with an enviable and totally bespoke beauty kit.
Visit www.spacenk.co.uk
RIMMEL LONDON:Rimmel is an urban girl’s dream – its punchy branding tempting ladies from 13 to 30 (and beyond) to splash the pocket money (or pay packet) on makeup bag essentials and pick-me-up purchases. Rimmel is the beauty world’s equivalent of Topshop - an irresistible combination of British eccentricity and affordability.
The brand started in 1840 with its namesake Eugene Rimmel at the helm, as a family-run perfumery on London’s Bond Street. It soon expanded into an innovative cosmetic empire, with fans of Rimmel mascara residing all over Europe. Reinvented in 2001, with Kate Moss’ face and endorsement, Rimmel now bridges the gap between high fashion and high street with alarming success.
Our favourites? Use their pretty pink blushes for an English rose glow - just add wellies and floral dresses. Try Rimmel’s Mono Blush in Coral Rose (£3.79) - essential for that old-fashioned flush. Or go modern by lacquering acid bright colours onto nails –they’re cheap enough for you to buy new shades every season. For summer, try 60 Seconds Nail Polish in Blue Me Away (£2.99) – it’s the perfect Union Jack blue and gives a super fun look. In the evening, blacken lashes with your favourite from their ever-expanding range of mascaras – they’re great for finishing off smoky eyes for evenings. The new Glam’Eyes Waterproof Mascara (£6.99) is sure to ensure smudge, run and flake free lashes all night long.
Visit www.rimmellondon.com
DANIEL HERSHESON'S BLOW-DRY BAR AT TOPSHOP, OXFORD CIRCUS: The Blow-Dry bar at Topshop is as cool as the clothes upstairs. Daniel Hersheson, a regular backstage at London Fashion Week, moved in last year with a compact four-seater salon (three chairs are for walk-ins, one is for bookings). The bar has been prepping the locks of London’s fashionistas ever since, with a constantly updated blow-dry menu of eight styles that stay ahead of, and on, trend.
The gorgeous ‘Pretty Woman’, the chic ‘B-52’ up-do, and the long and loose ‘Alice in Wonderland’ have just been added to the already very modern menu, where the backstage beachy Wavy Gravy and sexy Bardot continue to pull in the in-the-know crowds.
A visit to the Blow Dry Bar is the perfect quick-fix to preparing for a big night out or a special event. You’ll be in and out in half and hour (turn up with already shampoo’d hair if you’re in a hurry). Best of all, with an appointment only setting you back £21 (including the hair wash), you’ll have enough spare cash to head upstairs for a little (or a lot of) retail therapy. We’re well and truly hooked.
To book an appointment, call 0207 927 8797
ELEMIS: Elemis is luxury for ladies who want spas with substance and products you can take home and use with confidence.
Elemis’ packaging and swanky spa reputation might lead you to believe they are an old stalwart; not so. Elemis is a relatively recent guest at the beauty brand party, having been founded in 1989 by the very same directors who run the operation today. Beginning with body care, the brand cleverly integrated take-home products with spa treatments, presenting itself as a lifestyle brand. While their products are truly fabulous, Elemis have never made wild claims or pretended to produce miracles in moisturisers - women know no such thing exists. Instead, Elemis will fit into your lifestyle and probably improve it no end.
So what should you invest in? Bestselling products include the Pro-Collagen Marine Cream (£75) which was the brand’s first úber successful foray into skincare in 2003 - a true turning point for the previously body care focused line. Their Papaya Enzyme Peel (£26) is a real hero product (and one of our favourites), dramatically improving skin clarity and texture in a flash. Treatment wise, ultimate relaxation can be found in the Aroma-stone therapy, which is a favourite among Elemis fans. Now, however, it’s set to be overtaken in popularity by the cooling Hot Stone Body Facial (from £65) - try it if you’re after an anti-ageing, stress-relieving super treatment.
Visit www.elemis.com
PENHALIGON'S: There’s nothing more wonderfully old school than a perfumed soap. We say, bring them back! Nestling in tissue paper, pastel-coloured soaps are the non-edible equivalent of a cream tea - elegant and English in one fragrant package.
We don’t think anyone does soap better than Penhaligon’s. The classic styling of the brand is akin to luxury British brands like Smythson or Mulberry – who wouldn’t want to receive a box of soap when it looks as good as this?
Though quintessentially British, the brand holds plenty of fancy French appeal - the packaging would win over the chicest Parisian. Founded by William Penhaligon in the late 1860s, the brand started as a barber’s shop where William took inspiration from the nearby Hammam Turkish Baths to create his first scent for men, Hammam Bouquet. This was the first in a long line of bewitching fragrances.
Today Penhaligon’s stock a whole range of products in a bewildering array of scents, but for their adorable carved surface and irresistible scent we love the Bluebell Soaps (£20 for three). If you’re after something more bespoke, why not try their fragrance profiling service and create an individual aroma, especially for you?
Visit www.penhaligons.co.uk
News: ATHENA OFFERS EXCLUSIVE 20% DISCOUNT TO THE-BEAUTY-PAGES.COM READERS (11.07.08)
Every so often, the buzz surrounding an upcoming beauty product launch in the UK prompts such a surge in demand that headlines are created. Athena 7-Minute Lift is one such product.
Hitting the UK in November 2007, the £49.99 product attracted 200,000 pre-order sales and sold out completely within the first week of launching. It has since gained an unprecedented celebrity following and loyal customer base.
Athena 7-Minute Lift works in 7 minutes to relax facial muscles using Acetyl Hexapeptide 3. No less than 12 Organic Anti-Ageing Essential Oils are added to the winning formula, leaving skin looking smoother, suppler, and softer.
Yet the results are not just short-term - clinical trials showed that use of the product significantly reduced the appearance of wrinkles by an average of 83%, with long-term and continuous usage (after a 6 week period) showing an average permanent reduction of 24.7%.
Athena 7-Minute Lift has been hailed as ‘the organic face-lift in a jar’, reducing the appearance of sagging skin, lines, and wrinkles without expensive injections and dangerous muscle relaxants.
In addition to the ‘hero’ product Athena has also launched Athena Day Toning Moisturiser (£35.95), Nightly Renewal Cream (£65.95) and Microdermabrasion (£35.95).
Athena are offering readers of The-Beauty-Pages.com 20% off the entire range for one week only on their website www.athena7.co.uk
Input code 690815 at the checkout before Friday 18th July to receive your exclusive discount.
Tried & Tested: HOME HAIR TREATMENTS (11.07.08)
Hair frazzled from an addiction to straighteners and hairdryers? Fed up with frizz? Suffering from dull, lifeless locks? Can home hair treatments really fix the problem? Our testers gave a resounding thumbs up...
LEE STAFFORD 2 MINUTE MIRACLE REPAIR WITH PRO-REPAIR COMPLEX, £6.99 for 3 x 15ml tubes (www.boots.com)
Directions: Shampoo first, then apply treatment. Wait up to 2 mins or until it gets hot. Rinse thoroughly with cool water. Condition hair afterwards.
What they say: Containing warming vanilla this shot stimulates and increases circulation due to its spicy ingredients. The heat and massage improves the microcirculation around the hair follicle, which enables the follicle to increase its uptake of nutrients, which can improve the growth rate and the health of the hair.
What we say: A set of 3 colourful treatment tubes - you wont miss the hot pink packaging when its sat on the side of the bath. The product has an addictively sweet scent that lingers on hair after the treatment. The product self-heats on contact with tresses, so appliance is quick and easy.
The Results: On the surface, my fine hair looks healthy, but on closer inspection it is full of split ends and breakages from regular colouring. I’ve been looking for a treatment that will improve the health of the hair, without weighing down the fine texture or dulling the blond. I was pleasantly surprised by this treatment. My hair felt instantly softer after applying and, once dry, the improvement to the condition was clear to see. There was no greasiness or heaviness and the colour looks bright. I’m very impressed.
Best for: Fine damaged hair
PAUL MITCHELL HAIR REPAIR TREATMENT, £10.95 for 200ml (0845 6590012)
Directions: Apply after shampooing. Leave on for 3-5 minutes and rinse.
What they say: Break up with breakage and get together with this power-packed treatment. Helps restore elasticity, rebuild inner strength, revive shine, and rehydrate.
What we say: It couldn’t be easier to fit this treatment into your usual hair care routine – simply use it once a week in place of your usual conditioner. The lightweight cream leaves hair smelling like it’s just had an expensive salon treatment. The squeezable tube makes applying quick and easy.
The Results: I found this product hassle-free to use – I simply applied after shampooing, got on with the rest of my shower, and washed off right at the end. My hair is dry after years of highlighting and often gets tangled after washing, but after applying the treatment I could easily run a comb through my hair. After drying, it was much softer than usual and had a healthy shine. I’m genuinely impressed and will be using the product once a week ongoing.
Best for: Coloured hair
VO5 HOT OIL FOR HEAT DAMAGED OR FRIZZY HAIR, £3.89 for 4 x 15ml tubes (www.boots.com)
Directions: Warm the tube in a hot bowl of water or simply drop into a hot bath. Apply to hair before shampooing and leave for 1 minute, before washing.
What they say: We understand you want your hair to look it’s best and so you use heated appliances, brush frequently, and maybe colour your hair. To counteract the damage this may cause, V05 Silky Smooth Hot Oil uses the power of heat and penetrates deep within the hair, to reconstruct damage for dramatic results in just 1 minute.
What we say: The product has been around for years – it could almost be classified as retro - but the benefits to using it on your hair haven’t changed. The unfragranced tubes of oil, which should be heated in warm water before appliance, are best enjoyed while wallowing in a steaming hot bath.
The Results: My hair is suffering from regular blow-drying and straightening, which has left it brittle and damaged. I always use a heat protection spray before styling, but have been looking for something more intensive to repair the damage before it gets any worse. I applied this treatment once a week for a month and have noticed a real difference. My hair is thick and usually has a dry coarse texture. It now feels softer and the split-ends and breakages have definitely improved.
Best for: Heat-damaged hair
NICKY CLARKE SMOOTH IT OVER 60 SECOND TREATMENT FOR FRIZZY HAIR, £4.99 for 150ml. (Available Nationwide)
Directions: After shampooing, leave on for one minute and then rinse.
What they say: This high-shine, intensely moisturising treatment delivers deep conditioning to frizzy hair. Each strand is smoothed and helped to protect it from future heat styling damage to give you a healthy looking result that reduces frizz to a distant memory.
What we say: A luxuriously thick treatment with a rich creamy texture. The delicious scent and easy-to-use squeezable tube makes applying the product a pleasure. For a budget product, the silver packaging is notably stylish.
Results: I have long curly hair that gets easily tangled after washing. My ideal hair treatment would make it knot-free, shiny, and without frizz . This product has performed miracles. After shampooing, I combed through the hair and it was totally tangle-free. It instantly felt softer and silkier. Once dry, the curls were more defined, with not a hint of frizz. I will definitely be using this treatment again – it’s easy to use and has transformed my hair.
Best for: Frizzy and curly hair
AUSSIE 3 MINUTE MIRACLE RECONSTRUCTOR DEEP-CONDITIONER FOR DAMAGED HAIR, £4.49 for 250ml. (Available Nationwide)
Directions: Apply to clean, wet hair. Leave on for 1-3 minutes. Rinse with warm water.
What they say: This nourishing treatment gets to work fast on damaged hair, repairing and smoothing rough cuticles - inside and out - faster than you can say 'shine on me'.
What we say: A thick cream treatment with a heavenly fragrance. The essential oil in the Australian Balm Mint – described as ‘the elixir of life’ – is sweet, but not at all overpowering, and lingers subtley on hair after use. The generous pot will last for months.
The Results: I’ve been searching for a product for years to make my coarse hair feel softer to the touch and look shiny. I have to say that I am very impressed by this treatment. Immediately after rinsing, I could run my fingers through my hair with ease. After drying, there was less frizz and it felt far smoother. Despite the intense moisturisation, my hair didn’t feel at all heavy.
Best for: Thick coarse hair
ANDREW COLLINGE COMPLETE MOISTURE 1 MINUTE WONDER, £3.99 for 200ml (www.superdrug.com)
Directions: Shampoo first and towel dry. Apply evenly to hair, massaging gently from roots to ends. Leave for 1 min. Rinse thoroughly
What they say: Restructures and re-hydrates for instant manageability and shine for dry, coloured hair. Leaves hair soft, supple and easy to style.
What we say: This texture of this treatment is thick, creamy, and silky-smooth. It works easily into the hair, gliding over each strand and helping to detangle. A faint, but pleasant, oatmeal scent.
The Results: My dry hair is full of split ends and breakages, after years of styling and colouring. It feels rough and lacks shine. After using this product, it finally has the glossy sheen I’ve been dreaming of. I felt and looked like I had been to a salon to have an expensive treatment – my new healthy hair even attracted comments from friends. The product is slightly harder work than other treatments, demanding towel drying before appliance, but it’s definitely worth the extra effort. I will be making it part of my regular hair care routine.
Best for: Dry and damaged hair
Spa Review: THE AMIDA SPA AT HAMPTON (01.07.08)
Visited by Louise Emma Clarke
Location: Amida Spa, Staines Road, Twickenham, Middlesex TW2 5JD. 0845 230 9444 www.amidaclubs.com/home/hampton
Facilities: Looking for a day spa to visit with a group of friends? Located in a gloriously-leafy part of Middlesex, The Amida Spa at Hampton is the perfect choice. The wet spa boasts a sauna, solarium, steam room, and choice of massaging whirlpools – while exercise-junkies can get their fix in the 200-station gym and 25m pool. Refuel at lunchtime in the restaurant with homemade food and glasses of champagne (no need to change out your fluffy gown and slippers). Treatments take place in stunning private rooms, using products by Elemis.
Ambience: I visited the Amida on a busy Saturday and found it struck the perfect balance between upbeat and serene. We enjoyed the wet spa in the morning without ever feeling the need to keep our voices down, but spent the afternoon in the peaceful sanctuary of the treatment rooms.
Treatments Tested:
Elemis Aroma Stone Therapy, £81 for 85 mins
Using ancient techniques hailing from Bali, small basalt stones were heated and placed on key energy points around my body. The therapist used the heat of the stones to perform the massage, working on my back, shoulders, legs and arms. I’d been for a long run the day before the treatment and was suffering from stiff aching muscles – the deep heat of the stones worked a treat, releasing tension and leaving me feeling incredibly relaxed.
Elemis Visible Brilliance Facial, £74 for 70 mins
This anti-ageing face and eye treatment promises to rejuvenate, plump and smooth the skin. After cleansing and toning, an Amino Active Mask was applied to gently exfoliate and improve the skin’s texture. While it had a chance to work, I enjoyed a sleep-inducing head and shoulder massage. Finally, an intensive moisturiser and eye cream were applied. My skin has never looked so radiant.
Day Spa packages start at £76 per person. Packages include access to all facilities, refreshments, and at least one treatment.
News: SPACE NK ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF SHINE – AN EXTREME LIPGLOSS BY LIPSTICK QUEEN (01.07.08)
Love lip-gloss? Make a firm note in your diary to get down to Space NK from 23rd July. Hitting the shelves is Shine, a brilliantly extreme lip-gloss by cult brand Lipstick Queen.
Inspired by the sexual revolution that was the 1970s, the product is designed to be sexy, cheeky, and fun. Everything about the gloss is extreme – from its fabulously chunky pot, to its long-lasting colour, to its ability to create the illusion of hugely plumped lips. You’ll want it from the moment you set eyes on the packaging, which has a funky retro feel.
Shine will be available in six irresistible shades, each designed by brand creator (and lipstick obsessive) Poppy King. We’re pretty sure you’ll be tempted into taking home all six…
Shine will cost £20 and is available from 23rd July in Space NK stores nationwide or online at www.spacenk.com
News: DARPHIN LAUNCH PURIFYING DUO (01.07.08)
Looking for a grown-up solution to problem skin and blemishes? Stylish brand Darphin has come to the rescue.
The brand’s new Purifying Duo will be hitting the shelves today – a set of two products that work together to banish imperfections.
The first in the hero partnership is the Blemish Clearing Gel. This incredibly light gel reduces excess oil, gently eliminates dead cells, and purifies the skin to prevent new breakouts. It can be applied directly to the blemish as often as necessary. Essentials oils of Lavender, Sage, Geranium and Niaouli provide the delicious fragrance.
Second up is the Overnight Refining Lotion. Delicately scented with Lemon and Sage essential oils, the lightweight cream will remove impurities from the pores of the skin and reduce excess oil while you sleep. It should be applied to the T-Zone each night and washed off the next morning.
The partnership is set to revolutionise the way adults deal with breakouts. Both products retail at £18 and can be purchased by calling 0870 0342318 or visiting www.darphin.co.uk.
Feature: Sun Sea & Beauty (01.07.08)
Heading off on an idyllic beach holiday? All you need is a chic bikini, you favourite pair of Wayfarer sunglasses, and a suitcase crammed full of luxury beauty products...
SUN CARE: We spend the whole year fighting the signs of ageing with the latest super-creams and skin-pampering treatments, only to risk undoing the hard work with a few reckless weeks in the sun. A golden glow is one thing, but it doesn’t look so pretty when paired with premature wrinkles, leathery skin and a scattering of age-spots – not to mention the long-term consequences to the health of your skin.Luckily for beauty lovers, picking sun protection can be just as much fun as choosing your bikini… Several premium beauty brands boast creams that are advanced in their science, great for your skin, and a real joy to apply.
The Rules
- UVB rays cause sunburn and are blocked out by SPF (Skin Protection Factor) – the higher the SPF the more rays are blocked. Sally Penford, of the International Dermal Institute, recommends ‘at least SPF15 for protection against UV and to protect the body’s own immune system’.
- UVA rays are the biggest cause of premature ageing to the skin and not all sunscreens contain a filter to block them. Always check that the bottle has a ‘UVA’ sign before you buy.
- Protection should be applied generously to skin 30 minutes before setting off to the sun-lounger. Reapply every two hours throughout the day and whenever you get out the water. Seek shade – or cover up in a stylish kaftan – between the hours of 11 and 4 when the sun is at its hottest.
The Products
- For body, Caudalie Moisturising Body Sunscreen SPF20, £20 (www.caudalie.com) leaves skin hydrated and looking luminous. The antioxidant-rich formula contains strong UVB/UVA protection and the intoxicating perfume - of white frangipani, watermelon and lemon leaf - makes applying a pleasure.
Alternatives for body:
Lancôme Soleil DNA Guard SPF30, £21.50 (www.lancome.co.uk)
Lancaster Sun Global Protection Cellular Support SPF30, £55 (0800 3760688)
- For face, Sisley’s new Broad Spectrum Facial Sunscreen SPF40, £61 (0207 5916380) should be top of your beauty wish list. It uses antioxidants to stimulate collagen production and leaves the skin feeling silky smooth with the help of shea butter.
Alternatives for face:
Agera Ultra Performing Sunscreen SPF25, £65 (www.ageraonline.co.uk)
Nivea DNAge Cell Protection Anti-Ageing Face Sun Cream SPF30, £15.45 (www.boots.com)
AFTER-SUN: The sun has dropped, the pool is deserted, and your skin is in desperate need of some hydration. While you quench your thirst with a pre-dinner Pina Colada, offer your skin its own form of refreshment with a generous helping of After Sun.
After Sun works in three ways – it soothes, repairs, and protects the skin against anti-ageing. Dr Lionel de Benetti, Head of Research and Development at Clarins, points out that ‘the After Sun you apply today is your pre-sun treatment for tomorrow’. He advises us to view it in the same way we would a course of treatment or antibiotics – ‘Start using it a few days ahead of your holiday to build up your skin’s natural defences, use it each night after sun exposure and continue until the bottle or tube is empty.’
The Rules
- Choose an After Sun rich in antioxidants – they seek out skin-ageing free radicals that would otherwise stay active in your skin long after sun exposure.
- Check for ingredients that offer deep-hydration – the more moisture, the less chance of peeling. Shea butter, mango butter, watermelon and cocoa butter will all help to prolong your tan.
- To further soothe your sun-soaked skin, keep your After Sun in the fridge.
The Products
- Clarins After-Sun Moisturiser Ultra-Hydrating, £17 (www.clarins.co.uk) contains the tree bark Mimosa Tenuiflora, an antioxidant that stimulates cell renewal. It has a fresh summery scent and a silky light texture.
- Korrres Aloe Vera Body Milk, £13 (0207 5816455) is packed full of Aloe Vera to cool, Avocado Butter for hydration, and Calendula to soften and condition the skin.
- Matis Reponse Soleil After Sun Soothing Milk, £15.25 (www.matisbeauty.co.uk) instantly refreshes and cools the skin on contact. Skin is deeply hydrated with lashings of mango butter.
HAIR CARE: When it comes to preparing for a summer holiday, most of us remember to pack sun protection for our skin. Packing protection for our hair, however, doesn’t generally come as second nature.
Jonny Engstrom of Guy Kremer Salon Winchester (01962 860149 www.guykremer.com) warns ‘Omit it from your holiday beauty regime and you’ll be traveling home with a head of dull, brittle, straw-like hair that will take months of intensive treatments to bring back to its usual health.’
The Rules
- Jonny advises washing hair with a UV-Protection Shampoo and Conditioner for at least a week before you jet off – this will build up a good level of protection before exposing hair to the sun. He adds ‘Continue washing with the products every night during the holiday to keep this level topped up and your hair nicely hydrated’.
- Before you hit the beach, spray hair generously with a UV-Protection spray. Work the product through the hair with a comb to ensure every strand is covered, then twist up onto your head. Reapply the process every time you leave the water.
- Wherever possible, Jonny suggests covering the hair completely with a wide-brimmed hat.
The Products
- Redken UV Rescue After Sun Shampoo, £10, and Conditioner, £11.55 (0800 444880) contain both a UVA and UVB filter to protect the hair. The gentle formula removes minerals, chlorine, and salt – whilst also restoring moisture and shine.
- Protect hair during sun exposure with L’Oreal Professionel Solar Sublime UV-Protect Spray, £11.65 (0800 0726699). It has a non-greasy formula and leaves hair with a natural-looking shine.
- Apply Umberto Gianni Overnight Beauty Moisture Balm, £4.99 (www.boots.com) to sun-stressed hair before bed each night – it’ll restore health with an intensive shot of moisture and has a gorgeous tropical scent.
MAKEUP: There are lots of reasons for wanting to wear makeup on a beach holiday – first holiday with the new man, photos that stick around far longer than the suntan, wanting to impress on a night out with the girls… Whatever the reason, you need cosmetics that make you look and feel fabulous without sliding off in the heat or running down your face when you jump in the pool.
According to Lisa Eldridge, Creative Director of Boots No.7 and make up artist on 10 Years Younger, wearing cosmetics on a beach holiday is no faux pas – you simply need to pick carefully.
The Rules
- For the beach, Lisa suggests sticking to waterproof eye makeup and having fun with colour. She says ‘There are fantastic waterproof cosmetics available that stay put in any conditions - bright eye colours look great on the beach and can set off a tan perfectly.’
- For the evening, Lisa recommends a colour palette of gold, amber and bronze - ‘The warmth of these colours is very flattering to tanned skin, especially in the glow of sunset’. She suggests sheer washes of metallic loose powders for the eyes and bronzing liquids and highlighters for the cheekbones and décolletage.
Products
- For beautiful lashes on the beach, apply YSL Everlong Lengthening Waterproof Mascara, £20 (01444 255700). It creates impossibly long lashes and stays put in any condition.
- Autograph Liquid Eyeliner, £7.50 (www.marksandspencer.com) is available in three colours, including a vivid purple. Its waterproof formula and fine brush make it the perfect makeup choice for creating glamorous eyes on the beach.
- Top up your tan in the evening with Jelly Pong Pong’s Omnibronze, £22 (www.the-beauty-pages.com/boutique). Available to buy in our very own Boutique, the bronzer has been formulated to a give a natural-looking colour to all skin tones.
- For sexy evening eyes, use Bourjois Suivez Mon Regard in Ambre, £6.50 (www.bourjois.co.uk) – a durable loose eye shadow in a warm gold shade. It will stay put on the balmiest nights.
- Cover skin generously in B Never Too Busy To Be Beautiful Cocktail Body Lustre, £16 (www.bnevertoobusytobebeautiful.com) every evening before you head out. It adds an alluring gold shimmer to tanned skin, smells stunning, and helps to hydrate with its blend of almond oil and cocoa butter.
PERFUME: There are two reasons why every holiday requires a new bottle of perfume... Firstly, it makes jetting off even more of a pleasure. Secondly, just the faintest whiff of your summer scent in years to come will transport you straight back to the beach with the sun on your back and the sand between your toes.
A great holiday perfume should intensify what already surrounds you – the intoxicating fragrance of exotic flowers, the fresh saltiness of the ocean, and the sweet ripeness of local fruits. It should be fun, flirty and instantly uplift your mood.
The Rules
- Avoid wearing perfume on your skin in direct sunlight, which can cause discolouration or an allergic reaction. On the beach, Lyn Harris of Miller Harris suggests ‘try spraying onto clothes or apply to fingers and run through your hair’.
- For the evening, dab the perfume on the back of your knees and ankles. Heat rises and, with it, so will your perfume. It’ll be subtle, alluring, and long lasting.
The Products
- Perfect for wearing during the day, Bobbi Brown Beach Eau de Parfum, £35 (www.bobbibrown.co.uk) is a deliciously-light scent with notes of sand jasmine, sea spray and mandarin. The fragrance is uncomplicated and lighthearted – perfectly suited to a laid-back holiday on the beach.
- The revitalising scent of Miller Harris Fleur du Matin Eau de Parfum, £52 (www.millerharris.com) will wake you up after a lazy day in the sunshine. The perfume was inspired by the dew and floral herbal scent of an early morning walk on the island of Port Cros. It has a fresh zingy fragrance and whimsical romantic heart.
- Missoni Acqua Eau de Toilette, £38 (08700 342566) is light enough for wearing during the day, but sexy enough for wearing in the evening. The vibrant sunny fragrance is designed to remind you of sea air, bracing water, luscious flowers, succulent fruit and sun-kissed skin.
TRAVEL-SIZED: So many beauty products, so little weight allowance – a problem facing all beauty junkies before flying to sunnier shores. With skin care, hair care, bottles of perfume, and a full makeup bag taking up the room in your suitcase, it makes sense to keep the remainder of your beauty regime as small and light as possible.
Thankfully the choice of luxury travel-sized products is ever expanding and we no longer have to go without our favourite brands when away from home.
The Rules
- If you intend to take your products on the flight, make sure each container is 100ml or less to fit within current hand-baggage guidelines.
- If your favourite product doesn’t come in a smaller size, it’s worth decanting into empty travel bottles. Don’t be tempted to overfill the bottles and make sure each is labelled.
The Products
- Avoid carrying heavy bottles of shower gel by packing Aromatherapy Associates – Relax, De-Stress, and Revive, £18.50 (www.aromatherapyassociates.com). A set of three 7.5ml bath and shower oils, which can be applied to a bath as it’s running or to your body before a shower. They smell divine, will intensely hydrate skin, and will last long after your holiday.
- For luxury skin care, invest in Elemis Dream Journey Traveller, £85 (www.timetospa.co.uk). The vanity case contains 11 of their most popular products, all 60ml or under, including Tri-Enzyme Resurfacing Facial Wash, Pro-Collagen Marine Cream and Pro--Collagen Eye Renewal.
- For hair care, you can’t beat Toni & Guy’s Label M Summer Protection Set, £15 (0870 7708080). It has everything you need for keeping tresses looking their best in the sunshine, including shampoo, conditioner, sea-salt spray and protein spray. Each product is 75ml or under and comes in a handy wash bag with mirror.
- For decanting your own products, choose Marks & Spencer Deluxe Travel Bottle Set, £7.50 (www.marksandspencer.com).
News: Dove introduces Summer Glow Body Lotion SPF 15 (01.07.08)
If you’re a fan of the original Dove Summer Glow Body Lotion, you are going to be seriously excited about the newest arrival to the range. The brand has developed a new version of the popular gradual-tanning lotion that includes an SPF of 15.
According to Dove, two thirds of us will get sunburnt at some point during the summer in the UK – whether it’s while gardening, sitting in a pub garden, shopping, or having lunch outdoors. By simply swapping our moisturiser, it’s now easy to avoid making these potentially skin-damaging mistakes.
Dove technical expert Atoshi Ghosal explains ‘With Dove Summer Glow +SPF15 there’s no need to look pale and risk dodgy tan lines. Just like our classic gradual tanner, this moisturising formula quickly builds up a natural looking tan with the benefits of a UV filter system to keep harmful UVA and UVB rays away from the skin. This means your skin will get all the benefits of the sun and develop an even tan while looking bronzed and beautiful.’
Dove Summer Glow Beauty Body Lotion +SPF15 is on shelves now and costs £6.99. Call 0800 0851548 for stockists.
Treatment Review: HYDRODERMABRASIAN BESPOKE FACIAL, HYDROHEALING (01.07.08)
Tested by Claire Brayford
What it promises: Billed as the coolest facial in London, the treatment uses a fine nozzle to blast water at twice the speed of sound onto the skin to buff away dead skin cells, improve circulation, work on fine lines, scarring and problematic or acne prone skin. Unlike traditional microdermabrasion, this treatment does not leave your face looking red, but refined, deeply hydrated and smooth - it even promises to tackle your puffy eyes.
What happens: After a brief consultation setting out exactly what is involved, I lay down on a white-towelled bed. The treatment began with a relaxing facial lymphatic drainage massage using the hand-held device which was worked all over the skin to drain and replenish the lymphatic system - this helps to tackle those dark circles and puffy eyes. This was followed by the deep exfoliation dermabrasion, which acts as three treatments in one. So as well as blasting away dead skin, the surgically sterile water kills bacteria, and the high air pressure pumps oxygen into the epidermis so it also works as oxygen therapy too. The last stage was a lovely moisturising mask, after which sunblock was applied.
Results: Perhaps it was because I tested this facial on a scorching hot day in the city, but I have never felt so refreshed and revitalised. The process itself is not wet at all, just like a feather-light cooling mist all over the face and neck. It was incredibly gentle and soothing. I suffer from quite uneven blotchy skin but immediately after my complexion had a beautiful dewy, even glow. It looked visibly plumper, particularly around the eyes and mouth, I cannot remember the last time I looked so well nourished and moisturised.
Price: £85 for 60 minutes
Location: Hydrohealing, Notting Hill, London. Call 020 7727 2570 or visit www.hydrohealing.com.
EYE CREAMS TRIED & TESTED (01.07.08)
With a baffling range of different products on the market, we set our testing team the challenge of using their eye cream twice daily for a month and reporting any changes in fine lines, deeper wrinkles, dark circles and puffiness...
CRÈME DE LA MER THE EYE CONCENTRATE, £120 for 15ml (www.cremedelamer.co.uk)
What they say: This concentrated, ultraluxe eye treatment quenches and conditions impressionable skin. The Eye Concentrate significantly reduces the appearance of dark circles and puffiness, lines and wrinkles, encouraging the eye area to look healthy, luminous and feel supple as never before.
What we say: A luxuriously-rich cream that is applied with an ingenious wand. The perfect amount of cream for one application is picked up on the silver tip and helps to cool skin and depuff eyes on contact. The stylish pot, with its chunky silver lid, will take pride of place on any dressing table.
The Results: I applied the product twice a day. The cream sunk in almost immediately, leaving no greasiness on the surface of the skin. I noticed the results instantly, with skin feeling more supple and dark circles less pronounced. Fine lines around my eyes started to become less noticeable after a fortnight. Although it’s expensive, the pot would last for months.
Best for: Smoothing fine-lines and wrinkles
YVES SAINT LAURENT TEMPS MAJEUR EYE CONTOUR CARE, £60 for 15ml (01444 255700)
What they say: Exceptional decongesting and smoothing care for the eye contour area. Ginseng helps combat fatigue, while escine extracted from horse chestnut has a draining action. On application, the eyelids are decongested, puffiness is reduced and dark under-eye circles fade. All this comes in an ultra-fine, melting emulsion that leaves a delicate rosy veil on the tender skin around the eyes.
What we say: With its chic modern packaging, this product is visually in a class of its own. It has a feather-light silky texture and pleasant faintly almond fragrance. A measuring spatula is included, which ensures the correct amount is applied every time.
The Results: The cream was richer than I expected and l took a while to sink in – this was a positive for me as it left the skin around my eyes looking luminous. I used the product twice daily for a month and noticed definite improvement in the fine lines around my eyes. The biggest positive for me, however, was the cream’s ability to depuff and reduce dark circles. It’s become my hero product for early mornings.
Best for: Erasing dark circles
NEAL’S YARD ROSE FORMULA HYDRATING EYE CREAM, £20 for 10ml (www.nealsyardremedies.com)
What they say: Organic wild rose, avocado and pomegranate oils, rich in essential nutrients omega 3 & 6, are blended with amino acids to stimulate collagen and elastin levels, smoothing and strengthening the skin.
What we say: If you like your beauty products to be natural, this is the eye-cream for you. The ultra-light cream is packed full of organic plant extracts, which work together to fight the signs of ageing. The bottle makes application easy, dispensing the perfect amount with each pump. The packaging makes no attempts to be sexy, but is stylish enough and in keeping with the natural theme.
The Results: The cream instantly cools the skin on application, making it the perfect fix for tired or puffy eyes. Given the name, I was initially surprised that it didn’t have the fragrance of rose oil, but soon came to be thankful the fresh neutral scent. After a month, I starting noticing that the skin felt suppler and more hydrated and that my eyes looked visibly lifted.
Best for: Depuffing tired eyes
LANCOME RENERGIE REFILL YEUX, £38.50 for 15ml (www.lancome.co.uk)
What they say: Skin immediately feels more smooth and supple. Wrinkles and dark circles appear visibly reduced and the eye contour area looks younger.
What we say: A deliciously rich unfragranced cream that quickly absorbs into the skin. The pump applicator delivers the perfect pea-sized amount for gently patting around the eyes. The silver bottle is stylish, but classic.
Results: I’ve found it difficult to find an eye-cream that suits my sensitive skin, but was pleasantly surprised by this product. The cream is intensely hydrating, but gentle enough to use on the most delicate of skins. After a month, the fine lines around my eyes were visibly reduced and the dark circles underneath were less pronounced. It’s unusual to find a product that is gentle enough for my skin, yet powerful enough to show results. I will definitely continue to use this product.
Best for: Sensitive Skin
CAUDALIE PARIS ANTI-AGEING SERUM EYES AND LIPS, £24 for 15ml (www.caudalie.com)
What they say: This gel-cream reduces wrinkles, lightens dark circles, decongests and protects the skin from free radicals. Designed for all skin types, as soon as the first signs of ageing appear around the eyes
What we say: A hybrid between a cream and a gel, with the benefits of both. The richness of a cream, hydrating the skin and fighting the signs of ageing – combined with the cooling effect of a gel, refreshing and depuffing. Simple, but chic, packaging.
Results: I have dry skin and suffer from dark circles under my eyes – I’ve struggled to find an eye-cream that tackles both problems. After using this serum for a month, my friends have started asking if I’ve been getting more sleep, as my skin is glowing and the dark circles have nearly disappeared. The texture is quite tacky and it took a while to sink in, but once it had absorbed my skin felt supple and injected with moisture.
Best for: Dry skins
SKII SIGNS EYE CREAM, for £50 for 15g (www.sk2.com)
What they say: SK-II Signs Eye Cream, with a unique blend of seven ingredients including concentrated Pitera, revives the look of the total eye area. It works on multiple problems to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and dark eye circles giving you firmer, younger-looking eyes. Now you don't have to hide your eyes to hide your age.
What we say: A light, easy-to-absorb product in stunning red packaging. The unfragranced cream feels more like a gel, sinking straight in with just the lightest of pats.
Results: I suffer from dark shadows and after only a week I noticed that the skin around my eyes was plumper and brighter. After a month, the fine lines haven’t totally disappeared, but are considerably smoother. The skin feels hydrated throughout the day and I definitely feel I’m preventing any further fine-lines making an appearance.
Best for: Fighting the early signs of ageing.
