Friday 29 November 2013

Weekly Worship: Delarom Revitality Balm

Delarom Revitality Balm

Price: £54.00 30ml

Stockist: urbanretreat.co.uk

Delarom is a Parisian skincare brand that draws on the ancient principles of phytotherapy and aromacology. The brand use a combination of natural Mediterranean plant extracts, vegetable oils and essential oils and keep products free from parabens, phenoxyethanol and silicone.

The Revitality Balm is the first product I've tried from the range and, let me tell you, this was love at first application! The balm is designed to protect and hydrate skin, "enhancing brightness, vitality, comfort and firmness". The winter months have been taking a toll on my skin and after just one night of generously applying this product, I woke up transformed. I had nourished and healthier looking skin.

Like all balms, the Revitality Balm has an incredibly thick consistency. So thick in fact, that you have to melt the product in your hands in order to apply it. This means that applications can sometimes be a little rough but, trust me, it's worth it. The balm has a lovely (but gentle) floral scent and, unlike other balms, doesn't feel at all oily on the skin.

The only downside to this product? It's not available Stateside.
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Thursday 28 November 2013

The Beauty Myth: Tanning Beds Are The Safest Way To Tan

Verdict: False

This myth is not just nonsense, it is harmful. There is absolutely no safe way to tan and, even if there was, a tanning bed certainly wouldn't be the safest option.

Tanning beds expose your skin to more concentrated doses of ageing UVA rays (the rays more likely to cause cancer). In actual fact, the World Health Organization has recommended that no one use tanning beds for cosmetic purposes, listing them as a “known human carcinogen”. For those who don't know, a 'carcinogen' is a cancer-causing substance or agent. Scary stuff.

In addition to increasing the risk of skin cancer, frequent use of sunbeds can also lead to premature skin ageing. I'm talking wrinkles, age spots and a seriously dull complexion.

In truth, the only safe way to achieve beautifully bronzed skin is to get it from a bottle. There are many self-tans on the market that have great staying power and the Vita Liberata Phonomenal 125ml (£24.99 Boots / $54.00 Sephora) is one of them!

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Wednesday 27 November 2013

Wednesday Wisdom: Barbra Streisand

“You have got to discover you, what you do, and trust it”

Barbra Streisand Quote
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Monday 25 November 2013

News: The Organic Pharmacy Gets Personal

The Organic Pharmacy Beauty Elixir

Organic beauty may be stripped back but that doesn't mean it has to be basic. No one knows this more than The Organic Pharmacy and the brand's latest product is proof.

This new product I am referring to is the Beauty Elixir, a prescriptive anti-ageing cream that is tailored to suit your individual skincare needs. Obtaining your bespoke cream is easy and it begins with a thorough and in-depth one-on-one consultation with an Organic Pharmacy therapist. Each appointment will reveal your bespoke prescription based on answers to lifestyle choices, diet, metabolism, stress and current skincare routine.

Your prescriptive cream will then be formulated, combining a base of either cream or gel with one of five naturally derived complexes to tackle individual skin concerns. Your therapist will keep your details on record, inviting you to a follow up as part of the price. And if you don't get on well with the cream, The Organic Pharmacy will tweak the blend and give you a brand new pot! Is this a faultless service or what?

The Organic Pharmacy Beauty Elixir retails at £195.00 and is exclusive to Selfridges, London.

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Sunday 24 November 2013

Weekly Worship: Antipodes Delight Hand & Body Cream

Price: £24.99 / $36.00 120ml

Stockist: antipodesnature.com

Delight is the newest addition to the Antipodes high-performance skincare range. It is a skin-saving hand and body cream that has quickly become my handbag must-have.

It is formulated with macadamia nut oil and marigold flower oil which hydrate and smooth the skin, softening the body's driest areas. Containing the sweet fragrance of vintage gardenia, this ultra-nourishing hand and body cream has a rich, creamy texture that applies easily and absorbs quickly.

It is a true delight!

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Tuesday 19 November 2013

The Tuesday Tip: DIY Tinted Lip Balm

There is nothing more annoying than the last remains of a lipstick - you know, that final bit of lipstick that is permanently stuck in the bottom of the tube. Now you can, of course, scrape it out in the hope of gaining a few more applications. However, you could  use that last bit of lippie for something even better...creating your very own tinted lip balm! Making one is simple and I have a fool-proof recipe for you to follow.

You will need:
  • Petroleum jelly
  • A used-up lipstick
  • A cotton bud or cuticle pusher
  • A small clear storage bag (i.e. a sandwich bag or ziplock bag)
  • A small cosmetics container
  • Scissors

How you do it:
  1. Scrape out every inch of your lipstick using a clean cotton bud or cuticle pusher
  2. Pop the lipstick remains into a clear bag, along with petroleum jelly (following a one part lipstick to two part petroleum jelly ratio)
  3. Using your hands, mix the two ingredients together through the outside of the bag
  4. Once fully blended, cut off a bottom corner of the bag and - as if you were icing a cake - pipe the mixture into your empty container
  5. Voilà! Your tinted lip balm is ready for action
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Monday 18 November 2013

Review: Biologique Recherche Winter Tight and Bright Facial


The Promise: "This is a unique transitional facial that prepares your skin for the cold winter months ahead. This facial gives you the deepest facial cleanse, designed for purifying, lifting, toning and unifies the complexion, leaving your skin truly glowing throughout the winter months".

The Price: £150.00

The Place: EF MEDISPA Kensington, London

Key Products Used: Lotion P50w, Serum Elastine Pure, Amniotique E, Elastine Pure, Crème Biofixine and Fluid VIP02


The Treatment: The Biologique Recherche Winter Tight and Bright Facial was incredibly relaxing and rejuvenating. It was a 60 minute treatment that featured a deep cleanse, followed by a lymphatic drainage massage. The lymphatic drainage didn't feel at all uncomfortable, instead it just felt firm but gentle.

A variety of skin treatments were used including toners, face masks, serums and creams - all of which felt amazing on my skin. The products themselves came courtesy of Biologique Recherche, a French biological skincare line with over 30 years experience in developing some of the most powerful and effective skincare products in the beauty industry.

Although the treatment followed a specific structure, elements of it (in particular the products used) were altered to best suit my skin type. This was a huge advantage for me as I could guarantee my skin was getting what it needed, as well as what it wanted.

The Results: My skin looked amazing the second the facialist finished working her magic. I looked as if I had recently undergone a face lift. Both my cheekbones and brow bones had lifted and my laugh lines had vanished completely. And, if the lifting effect wasn't enough, this miracle facial left me with the most radiant, youthful-looking skin.

Now, what set this facial apart from the millions of others out there is that the results were long lasting. I had the facial over a week ago and my skin is still radiant, bright and tight!


The Pro: This Winter Tight and Bright Facial delivers amazing, instant results that have real staying power.

The Con: As amazing as the Biologique Recherche products felt on my skin, they didn't have the most appealing scent.

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Sunday 17 November 2013

Weekly Worship: Själ Mineral Kalla Energy Tonic

Själ Mineral Kalla Energy Tonic
Price: £43.53 / $70.00 150ml

Stockist: sjalskincare.com

I am very much of the belief that toners do nothing for you but take up space in your bathroom cabinet. However there are a few toners out there that offer great skin benefits. The Själ Mineral Kalla Energy Tonic is one of them...

The Mineral Kalla Energy Tonic is a skin-saving toner that provides long-lasting hydration, as well as protection against pollution. It provides dual protection as it counteracts internal stress through immune boosting adaptagens while offering barrier protection. It contains hero ingredients that include ginseng extract, arctic root and gold and silver infused in rose water. It has a lovely subtle scent and a handy spray dispenser for easy application.

However, what really makes me worship the Själ Mineral Kalla Energy Tonic is its ability to brighten the skin. After only two weeks of using this toner, my skin has become more radiant and even-toned. I am in love!

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Wednesday 13 November 2013

Wednesday Wisdom: Alice Roosevelt Longworth

“If you haven't got anything nice to say about anybody, come sit next to me”

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Monday 11 November 2013

Review: Elemis Pro-Intense Lift Effect Night Cream

Elemis Pro-Intense Lift Effect Night Cream

The Promise: "This lift effect firming night cream is formulated with a powerful blend of gardenia stem cells, arjuna and lupin, which help reduce the appearance of sagging jowls, cheeks and chin. Facial contours appear shaped, and skin texture visibly improved".

The Price: £95.00 / $152.00

The Stockist: qvcuk.com / timetospa.com

The Hero Ingredients: Lupin, Arjuna Bark Extract, Gardenia Plant Stem Cells and Alaria Esculenta

Elemis Pro-Intense Lift Effect Night Cream Review

The Application: This anti-ageing night cream has a thick, creamy consistency that feels velvety smooth. It soothes and cools the skin the second it is applied and it has a gentle, spa-like scent. It applies easily and only a pea size amount of product is needed to cover the entire face and neck.

This cream does not feel at all sticky on the skin and  it absorbs quickly, so you won't find it rubbing off on your pillow!

The Results: This night cream claims to shape, firm and lift. I can't say much for its lifting abilities, however this anti-ager does firm the skin and improve its texture. It is also amazing at correcting pigmentation, helping to reduce the appearance of age spots, sun damageredness and hyperpigmentation.

Although it is not promoted as one, the Pro-Intense Lift Effect Night Cream is a great winter skin saviour. It does an amazing job at hydrating the skin and locking in moisture and it protects against skin damage caused by winter months.

Elemis Pro-Intense Lift Effect Review

The Pro: This night cream is a great all-rounder. In addition to being an anti-ageing hero, it helps to nourish, hydrate and protect the skin from environmental damage.

The Con:
At £95.00, it is on the expensive side. However, when you consider that only a tiny amount of product is needed per use, you do get quite a lot for your money.

Are you fan of Elemis? Have you tried any other products from the brand that you would recommend?

PR sample
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Sunday 10 November 2013

Weekly Worship: Look Good Feel Better

 

This week's Weekly Worship is not a stand-out skincare product, high tech gadget or fabulous beauty service. It is, in fact, an amazing charity that goes by the name of 'Look Good Feel Better'.

Look Good Feel Better (LGFB) is an international cancer support charity that provides free services for women and teenagers suffering from the visible side effects from cancer treatment.


Being diagnosed with cancer is heartbreaking, frightening and, at times, very confusing. If that isn't enough, treatment - as vital as it is - often causes visible side effects that can seriously affect a patient's self-esteem and confidence. Look Good Feel Better recognises and understands this less-talked-about issue and, as a result, is dedicated to improving the self-esteem and quality of life of those undergoing treatment for cancer. 

This incredible organisation improves the appearance and self-confidence of cancer patients through complimentary self-help workshops and masterclasses that create and promote courage, support, confidence and community. Since the charity began in 1987, it has helped and supported millions of women across the world, helping to make a difficult time a little bit easier and a damn site more glamorous!

 
The organisation's corporate partners include Alterna Haircare, Beauty Blender, Dior, Philosophy,
Saks Fifth Avenue and Clarisonic. Hundreds of other beauty brands across the globe support LGFB by donating huge numbers of products and services to the cause. Even we can even get involved! To find out how, click here!

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Wednesday 6 November 2013

Wednesday Wisdom: Julie Andrews

“Sometimes opportunities float right past your nose. Work hard, apply yourself, and be ready. When an opportunity comes you can grab it”

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Sunday 3 November 2013

Weekly Worship: Alterna Caviar CC Cream

Alterna Caviar CC Cream
Price: £24.95 / $25.00 74ml

Stockist: lookfantastic.com / Sephora

Now I'm sure you've all heard of CC creams by now but have you heard of CC creams for the hair?? Alterna recently created one and it is absolutely amazing!

The Alterna Caviar CC Cream is a ‘Complete Correction’ leave-in treatment and styling cream that multitasks like no other. This hair hero moisturises, shines, strengthens, softens and smooths. It also protects from heat damage and UV damage, helps to reduce breakage and  keeps colour looking vibrant and bright.

Since first pump I have loved this product. It smells amazing, has a light creamy consistency and spreads and absorbs into the hair effortlessly. It gives hair the most amazing shine, makes it super soft and makes styling that much easier. It may be on the pricey side but trust me, your hair will thank you for it!

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Saturday 2 November 2013

Interview: Debbie Thomas


Debbie Thomas is a highly respected skin specialist, whose talent and unique approach has taken her from Harley Street to Hollywood. She is a true skin saviour to some of Hollywood's elite and has worked with some of the world's most renowned skincare brands.

When it comes to skin, there isn't much Debbie doesn't know. So you can imagine how excited I was when I was given the opportunity to interview her...

Debbie Thomas

What inspired you to work in the beauty industry? And how did your career journey begin?

I started with a keen interest in holistic treatments. I loved how manipulating muscles or nerve endings could trigger positive reactions in the body, making people feel better physically and emotionally. After completing my beauty, massage and reflexology courses, I got my first job and quickly gained a strong client base for my facials. 

I then developed adult acne and felt assured that my boss would be able to ‘cure’ me, she could not and neither could my GP. This was when my obsession with finding successful treatments began.

What is your career highlight?

Every time I get a new client through a recommendation I feel very proud. However my real career highlight was the first day I worked for myself in my own company. It was also the single most scary day. I didn't have lots of security if things didn't work out, so I told myself that I had to make it work no matter what.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to succeed in the beauty industry?

I think it’s about finding a niche or a specific area that you are passionate about and become an expert in it. I still go on as many training courses as I can, as I think you can never know enough. 

Debbie Thomas Facialist
 
Who is the ultimate beauty icon?

I think Eve Lom really was one of the first ‘super facialists’ and through her great techniques and products, she has become a global brand.

What are your makeup bag essentials?

La Roche-Posay tinted SPF 50 cream and Maybelline mascara are the basics I couldn't live without.
What is the biggest beauty crime a person can commit?

Not practising safe sun care.

What is your top beauty tip?

Go for a skin consultation with a professional skin specialist at least once a year. Your skin can change with seasons, age, stress and lifestyle, so your home routine needs to change seasonally as well. I also recommend monthly facials to make the most of your skin.

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