Thursday 31 October 2013

Ask TBI: How To Fight The Fade

Question: I have red hair and dye it every 6 weeks. However the colour always fades after just two weeks of having it done. Is there any way to prevent the colour fading so quickly? - Kelsey, San Diego.

Answer: Coloured hair will always have a nasty habit of fading, however red hair fades like no other! Red dyes rinse out more easily than brown or blonde dyes. To make matters worse, red hair is more likely to become damaged or faded as a result of UV exposure.

Luckily there are a number of little things you can do to help make your colour last:
  • After having your hair coloured, wait two days before washing it
  • Protect your hair from UV exposure with a hat, scarf or a hair protection product
  • Avoid shampoos that contain sulfate
  • Use a shampoos and conditioners that are specifically designed for colour treated hair
  • Avoid washing your hair every day
  • Wash your hair in cold water (if you're brave enough!)

I would also recommend using a colour enhancing conditioner once or twice a week. One of the best I have ever used is the Aveda Madder Root Colour Conditioner 250ml (£20.00 aveda.co.uk / $18.00 aveda.com). I honestly cannot recommend this product highly enough. This miracle conditioner contains madder root which helps to purify the scalp and hair. The natural colours of the madder root also intensify red hues, resulting in vibrant and glossy red hair that lasts!
Aveda Madder Root Colour Conditioner
SHARE:

Wednesday 30 October 2013

Wednesday Wisdom: Oprah Winfrey

“Where there is no struggle, there is no strength”


SHARE:

Sunday 27 October 2013

Weekly Worship: Dr Bronner's Organic Almond Castile Liquid Soap

Dr Bronner's Organic Almond Castile Liquid Soap Review

Price: £5.49 / $9.49

Stockist: feelunique.com / amazon.com

During the last few years, Dr Bronner's Magic Soaps have achieved cult beauty status. I didn't really understand the hype until I started using one a few weeks ago. I have been using the Almond Castile Liquid Soap and let me just say this multitasker smells amazing, lasts forever and is certified organic.

The product claims to be an 18-in-1 magic soap, a miracle product that cleans just about everything. Now it is good but it’s not that good. However, although it doesn't really have 18 different uses (in my opinion!), it is still an amazing multitasking product. I use it for washing my body, washing my hair and even shaving! So, at just £5.49 a bottle, I guess you could say this soap is a miracle!

SHARE:

Thursday 24 October 2013

Interview: Jamie Stevens


Jamie Stevens is one sought-after stylist. He is the go-to hair guru for numerous A-Listers and he is forever lending his wisdom to high profile magazines across the world. Last year his talents were recognised when he was nominated for British Hairdresser of the Year. If that isn't enough to get you going, Jamie is the X Factor Hair Stylist in residence!

Luckily for me, Jamie took some time out of his ridiculously busy schedule to talk all things hair and beauty...

Jamie Stevens X Factor

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

I grew up in a family of hairdressers. My Mum, Nan and Great Granddad were all hairdressers. I initially started out as a professional footballer in my teens, following in my father’s footsteps. However a serious injury cut short my dream of Premiership glory and so I naturally fell into hairdressing and loved it!

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

Simply put, you have to be prepared to put in the hours! People only see the glamorous or fluffy side of what I do, but what they don’t see is the long days and nights working to get there. It’s about making yourself available for everything and everyone in the early days to gain as much experience as possible. Also, if you want to be the best you've got to work with the best, so surround yourself with talented people.

What is your career highlight?

It’s hard to pin it down to one as I've had so many fantastic experience. I've worked with some of the best names in hairdressing, launched my own salons and won numerous awards. I've also worked with celebrities and have been involved in many TV shows, such as The X Factor.

I have to say that being nominated for HJ’s British Hairdresser of the Year Award for the first time last year - as the joint youngest nominee in the award's 28 year history - has been a huge pinnacle in my career. The British Hairdressing Awards are like the Oscars of the hairdressing world! I’m nominated again this year and to see my name up there with the greats is a huge honour.

Jamie in action!

Who is the ultimate beauty icon?

I always think about beauty icons in two categories – icons that have stood the test of time and ones that are current and fresh right now. For me, the women that represent timeless beauty are Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe and Grace Kelly. They all represent old school glamour and each had their own distinctive style when it came to their hair - which we often see re-emerge in today’s hair trends.

Right now, I have to say Rihanna is one of my ultimate beauty icons. She is like a chameleon and she is always brave and adventurous in her hair styles. On the opposite end of the spectrum, yet equally as iconic, is Alexa Chung. She represents the epitome of effortless, undone chic.

What are your hair and beauty essentials?

A good pair of straightening irons are invaluable as you can use them in so many ways, from straightening to curling or creating texture. With using any heated tools, a heat protection spray is an absolute must before drying and styling, otherwise hair will become dull, dry and brittle. Try the TRESemme Pro Shine Heat Protect Style Primer as it protects hair from temperatures as high as 230 degrees. A set of non-snag bands and pins grips are an essential part of any hairdresser’s kit, whether it’s to scrape hair out of the way whilst at work or to take hair from coffee to cocktails in a quick 10 minute up-do.
TRESemme Pro Shine Heat Protect Style Primer
What is the biggest hair crime a person can commit?

Getting stuck in a style rut. You wouldn't wear the same shoes or coat year in, year out, so why would you wear the same hairstyle for years? I have a three-strike rule whereby, every third time I cut someone’s hair, I encourage them to change it - even if it’s the subtlest tweak to keep the hair looking fresh and current. 

Another hair crime is using the wrong products for your hair type and in the wrong way. For example, if you have fine hair and overload it with volumising products, it will do the opposite of what the product is designed to do. Instead it will weigh the hair down, making it limp. Make sure you seek advice from your hair stylist about which products to use and, more importantly, how to use them on your  hair.

What is your top hair tip?

When it comes to getting your hair to sit how you want it to, the key is to blow-dry it in the opposite direction. For example, if you want instantaneous volume with minutes to spare, tip your head upside down and blast it with a hairdryer in the opposite direction you want it to sit, working in a volumising product to give it some guts. Tip your head back and you’ll have head-turning body and bounce. Similarly, to achieve an obedient fringe, blow-dry it in the opposite direction you want it to sit and leave to cool, before brushing over to the correct side – this will ensure it sits in place throughout the day.
TRESemmé X Factor Pro Shine range

TRESemmé X Factor Pro Shine range is available exclusively in Tesco stores nationwide.

SHARE:

Wednesday 23 October 2013

Wednesday Wisdom: Lena Horne

“You have to be taught to be second class; you're not born that way”


SHARE:

Tuesday 22 October 2013

The Tuesday Tip: Toilet Trick!

If you ever find your face on the oily side during a night out and your face powder is nowhere  to be found - head to the toilets! The toilet seat covers that you often find in restrooms work incredibly well at absorbing oil. Best of all, they are free!

However, if this tip just doesn't do it for you, invest in a handbag-friendly pack of blotting papers. If you keep them in your bag at all times, you will never be oily and alone again!

I love Bobbi Brown's refillable faux-leather blotting paper case (£17.00 John Lewis / $20.00 Nordstrom). The powder-free blotting papers are amazing at absorbing excess oil and perspiration and the gorgeous case even contains a mirror! What's not to love?!

SHARE:

Sunday 20 October 2013

Weekly Worship: 111Skin Bio Cellulose Facial Treatment Mask

Price: £18.00 per mask

Stockist: beautyexpert.co.uk

There are a few face masks in existence that are so nourishing, calming and effective that you feel transported into a relaxing spa environment the second you apply them. The 111Skin Bio Cellulose Facial Treatment Mask is one of them.

Unlike most face masks on the market, this mask is an actual mask. It is not the most attractive thing you could ever wear, however it feels beautiful on the skin and adheres to your face like a second skin  It utilises the most advanced technology to deliver beneficial nutrients into the dermis. The Bio Cellulose Facial Treatment Mask contains arbutin to brighten the skin, silk amino acids to condition the skin and centella asiatica to stimulate collagen production.

I absolutely love this treatment mask. It cools the skin and helps to remove any irritation or redness that you may be suffering from. More importantly, it does a perfect job of brightening skin tone, restoring moisture and correcting pigmentation.

It would be wrong to avoid the price issue - after all, this mask is very  expensive. However it does deliver fantastic results and makes you feel truly pampered. I would definitely purchase this mask again but I would only bring it out for special occasions or skin emergencies!

SHARE:

Thursday 17 October 2013

Ask TBI: When Should I Start Using Anti-Ageing Products?

Question: I am 24 and a huge amount of my friends have started using anti-ageing creams. Should I be using them or am I too young? - Sarah, New York.

Answer: There is no particular age in which you should start using an anti-ageing cream. After all, we all have different skin types and skincare desires. However anti-ageing products are designed to prevent the signs of ageing, so most people take 'the earlier the better' approach. I began using anti-ageing creams at your age, however the choice is completely up to you. Regardless of the decision you make, it's important that you don't speed up the signs of ageing. Therefore don't smoke or use sunbeds and be sure to use a good SPF all year round!

If you do decide to delve into the world of anti-ageing creams, I would recommend the following...

  1. Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream 50ml (£79.00 timetospa.co.uk / $128.00 timetospa.com)
  2. Antipodes Avocado Pear Nourishing Night Cream 60ml ( £32.00 antipodesnature.com / $52 hipapotheca.com)
  3. KORRES Quercetin & Oak Antiageing Antiwrinkle Night Cream 40ml (£39 lookfantastic.com / $52.00 Sephora)
SHARE:

Wednesday 16 October 2013

Wednesday Wisdom: Bette Davis

“A sure way to lose happiness, I found, is to want it at the expense of everything else”

Bette Davis quote
SHARE:

Monday 14 October 2013

Interview: Flavien Abbas


Flavien Abbas is a high profile celebrity hairdresser who has worked with everyone from A-list actresses and fashion editors to royalty. He has a remarkable talent for all things hair and has great vision for product innovation. His new hair care line, Touché by Flavien, is a clever combination of the purest, natural ingredients that have been given a sophisticated and sexy twist.

I was fortunate enough to interview Mr Abbas and grill him on everything from hair tips and beauty crimes to succeeding in the industry...

Flavien Abbas

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

My inspiration to work in hairdressing started with a fascination in fashion and film. Being able to change one's appearance using hair and makeup is, in my view, a real work of art. 

I started my career in hairdressing in the South of France at the age of 15. During this time I attended all possible courses and competitions, from old school hairdressing to leading hair cutting techniques. I wanted to gain as much experience and exposure to the industry as possible. My passion took me around the world and over the years I have been lucky enough to work in both the fashion and movie industry in London and Paris. Lately I have become very passionate about biochemistry and gaining a wider understanding of the science of hair, how it becomes beautiful from the inside out.

What is your career highlight?

I feel very blessed to have had the opportunity to meet and work with celebrities, royals and some the most talented photographers and directors. Being part of this world was a lucky life achievement for me.

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

One of the most important pieces of advice I give to all the new talents coming into the industry is to work hard and push your limits. Most of all, work on your basic knowledge and understanding of hair types, hair cutting and styling skills. Having a strong hairdressing basis is an understanding of all hair and styles. Practice, practice!

Who is the ultimate beauty icon?

Be your own kind of beautiful. Working with models and actresses taught me that we all have good and bad days. Work on your image and you become a beauty icon yourself.

What is the biggest beauty crime a person can commit?

Over processed hair (too much colour/perm) and not making an effort to look good. I like Estée Lauder's quote, "There are no ugly women only lazy women".

What is your top hair tip?

Keep your hair shiny, healthy, beautiful and well cut and half of the job is done!

Touché by Flavien

SHARE:

Sunday 13 October 2013

Weekly Worship: Cover FX Illuminator

Price: £25.00 / $28.00 50ml

Stockist: House of Fraser / Sephora

I recently got my hands on a miracle product that transforms the look of my skin instantly. In fact, every time I apply this product I receive lovely compliments on how great my skin looks. You'll be surprised to read that the product is neither a primer, foundation or concealer. The miracle product is in fact an illuminator, the Cover FX Illuminator to be exact.

The Cover FX  Illuminator is an illuminating powder that gives skin the most beautiful, natural glow. It has a soft finish and a lightweight texture that it easily blendable. It is these qualities that prevent the Illuminator looking harsh or too shiny on the skin.

However, what really makes the Cover FX  Illuminator so amazing is that, when applied, it enables certain flaws (such as acne, redness or pigmentation) to go unnoticed. It is by far the best illuminating powder I have ever used...I'm hooked! 

SHARE:

Wednesday 9 October 2013

Wednesday Wisdom: Coco Chanel

“Don't spend time beating on a wall, hoping to transform it into a door”


SHARE:

Tuesday 8 October 2013

The Tuesday Tip: Prime That Pout!


In order to create the perfect make up, you must always start with a perfect base. After prepping skin we apply foundation to our forehead, cheeks, nose and chin, so why not our lips?

Foundation on lips

Applying foundation to the lips will create the perfect base for lipstick application. It will blot out any redness or discolouration, helping the colour to appear on the lips exactly as it does on the stick! Not only will blotting foundation onto the lips help to colour correct, it will also help make your lipstick last.

By the way, you only need to use the tiniest amount of foundation. You wouldn't want a cakey lip now would you?

SHARE:

Saturday 5 October 2013

Weekly Worship: Elizabeth Arden Untold EDP


Price: £48.00 / $59.00 50ml

Stockist: Debenhams / Macy's

If you've ever dreamed of a perfume that encapsulates romance, then let me introduce you to Untold.

Untold, my dear readers, is the new Elizabeth Arden fragrance that I happen to have fallen in love with. With notes of pink pepper, Egyptian jasmine and patchouli, this delicate scent is floral, feminine and sweet.

Untold has the most amazing staying power, which is impressive for a subtle fragrance, and the gorgeous scent has earned me some lovely compliments. And have you seen the bottle? It is as beautiful as the fragrance it contains.

SHARE:

Thursday 3 October 2013

Faithful Four: Budget Foundations


Revlon PhotoReady Make-Up
Promise: “Revlon PhotoReady™ Makeup - for poreless, airbrushed skin in any light. Photochromatic pigments bend and reflect light to erase every flaw. Complete, yet undetectable coverage”
Price: £12.99/$12.99 30ml
Purchase: SuperdrugULTA

Of all the budget foundations available, the Revlon PhotoReady™ Makeup provides the best finish by far. It creates a luminous flawless finish that doesn't look heavy of cakey on the skin. The liquid foundation contains micro shimmer particles that give skin that gorgeous natural-looking glow. The foundation also contains SPF20, is oil-free and is available in 12 shades! The Revlon PhotoReady™ Makeup provides medium coverage, is easily buildable and has incredible staying power. As for whether it makes you photo ready... it really does. Skin looks flawless on film, I promise!

Max Factor Whipped Creme Foundation
Promise: “A whipped foundation innovation featuring a lightweight, hydrated formula for an on-trend demimatte, flawless finish. The new supersmooth, hydrated formula instantly achieves the perfect balance between controlling shine and enhancing skin’s natural luminosity in one quick, easy application”
Price: £9.99 18ml
Purchase: Boots

The Max Factor Whipped Creme Foundation has a smooth mousse texture that applies onto the skin like a dream. The lightweight foundation does an amazing job at hydrating the skin, a quality not usually found in matte foundations. The finish is demi-matte - aka a flawless matte finish with a slightly radiant glow - and the coverage is medium and easily buildable. The Whipped Creme Foundation evens skintone and reduces excess shine. Its non-drying formula also makes it perfect for use on all skin types. If that is not enough it is oil-free, fragrance-free and dermatologically tested. Finally, The Max Factor Whipped Creme Foundation has real lasting power - I can get through a whole working day without the need to reapply. The only downside to this foundation is that it is lacking in SPF and is only available in 6 shades.

e.l.f. Studio Flawless Finish Foundation
Promise: “This liquid foundation applies easily and lasts all day for visibly brighter and radiant looking skin. The lightweight formula blends in naturally for a beautiful semi-matte finish”
Price: £6.75/$6.00 23ml
Purchase: eyeslipsface.co.uk / Target

The e.l.f Flawless Finish Foundation is one of the best preforming budget foundations around. It is cheap in the UK and even cheaper in the US of A. It is a liquid foundation that applies like butter and blends into the skin perfectly. It provides medium coverage and a semi-matte finish, leaving skin looking luminous and picture perfect. The foundation, which is equipped with SPF15, is oil-free with a lightweight texture, making it ideal for those with oily and acne prone skin. It also has great staying power, lasting a good 6 hours before the need to reapply. The only downside to the e.l.f Flawless Finish Foundation is that it is only available in 6 shades.

Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse Foundation
Promise: “Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse is a revolutionary whipped formula, providing an air-soft, perfect matte finish coverage, with a weightless feel”
Price: £7.69 / $8.99 18ml
Purchase: BootsULTA

The Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse is one of the world's most popular foundations and it is clear why. The foundation applies effortlessly, feels incredibly light on the skin and leaves a velvety smooth matte finish. It is also fragrance-free, dermatologically testedallergy-tested and non-comedogenic, making it perfect for sensitive skin. The foundation also works well for those with oily and normal skin, however I wouldn't advise using it if you have dry skin as you may find it a little drying. The Matte Mousse provides medium to full coverage and is easily buildable. Finally its matte finish enables you to get away without wearing powder, helping to cut costs and time! The Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse is available in 16 shades - an impressive amount for a budget foundation. The only downside to this foundation is that it lacks SPF.

SHARE:

Wednesday 2 October 2013

Wednesday Wisdom: Zsa Zsa Gabor

“I am a marvellous housekeeper. Every time I leave a man I keep his house”


SHARE:
© The Beauty Informer. All rights reserved.
DESIGNED BY pipdig