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Archive April 2009

 

TRIED & TESTED: EYE MAKEUP REMOVERS (24.04.09)
Looking for a product to quickly and effectively sweep off your eye makeup? We’ve tried six of the best…

MARKS & SPENCER FORMULA DOUBLE ACTION EYE MAKEUP REMOVER, £7.50 for 125ml (www.marksandspencer.com)
What they say: This light dual action formulation instantly removes all traces of eye makeup, including waterproof, leaving your eyes wonderfully cleansed, soothed, and conditioned.
The Results: I loved the colourful layers of this product and was surprised when I saw the affordable price tag. To use it, I shook the bottle and applied to a cotton wool bud. I was impressed with how quickly it removed my jet-black mascara and eyeliner – just a few swipes and it was gone. The texture felt similar to a light oil, which felt quite greasy on my skin and eyes. I wasn’t keen on the oiliness, but I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this product to people with tight, dry skin as the moisturising formula would instantly soothe and hydrate.
Best for: Dry skin

MAC PRO EYE MAKEUP REMOVER, £12.23 for 100ml (www.maccosmetics.co.uk)
What they say: A mega-effective remover that lifts off every look – from delicate to dramatic – without smudges, tears or aggression. Pro-quality, yet decidedly gentle; calms, hydrates and soothes skin with cucumber extract. Makeup can be immediately reapplied.
The Results: After testing this product, I can see why it’s favoured by so many Makeup Artists and models. The opening of the bottle is the perfect size to tilt onto a cotton bud, with the correct amount applied in a flash. It removed my eye makeup impressively quickly – I tested it on a day when I’d been wearing a lot of black waterproof mascara and smoky eyeshadow, but within seconds it had disappeared. It felt very gentle, like I was using water, and left no residue on my skin. I’m very impressed.
Best for: Fast results

CHAMPNEYS SKIN CONDITIONING EYE MAKEUP REMOVER PADS, £4 for 50 pads (www.champneys.com/Collection)
What they say: These efficient cleansing pads have been designed for the eye area and quickly whisk away the most stubborn waterproof make-up. Gentle cleansers are blended with moisturising Vitamin E and conditioning panthenol to kindly cleanse skin and leave even sensitive eyes feeling comfortable.
The Results: This product made my evening routine so easy – I simply pulled out a saturated pad and wiped away my eye makeup in seconds. The packet is light and very compact, making it ideal for taking away on holiday. I love this product, but imagined the added convenience would cost more than I usually spent on makeup remover – so I was thrilled when I saw that it only cost £4 for 50 pads. My skin felt supple and hydrated after using the pad – and one was enough to remove all my eye makeup. Better still, I won’t need to buy cotton wool. – I won’t hesitate to buy another pack when this runs out.
Best for: Convenience

PAUL & JOE EYE MAKEUP REMOVER, £12.25 for 100ml (www.asos.com)
What they say: Thoroughly removes makeup from eyes and lips while gently nourishing with its creamy texture.
The Results: It was love at first sight with this product! Everything was so pretty and feminine – the floral packaging, vintage-style bottle, and delicate fragrance. I’d buy it for looks alone! The product itself was pretty good too – it wiped away my makeup easily and left my skin feeling soothed and supple. I have very sensitive skin and eyes, but this product was extremely gentle. The ingredients contain flower water, apricot kernel oil, and jojoba seed oil, which softly hydrate the skin. It feels really luxurious, but is effective too.
Best for: Sensitive skin

BENEFIT GEE THAT WAS QUICK OIL-FREE MAKEUP REMOVER, £15.50 for 236.6ml (0808 2380230)
What they say: Now you see it! Now you don’t! This instant makeup remover thoroughly removes makeup from eyes and face without an oily residue. It leaves skin feeling soft, clean, refreshed, and well hydrated.
The Results: I was impressed with the size of this bottle – the largest in the test – and liked the pop-up spout, which made it very easy to control the amount of product applied to the cotton pad. I have combination skin and tend to avoid oil-based products, so was pleased the liquid was oil-free. It felt cool and refreshing as I wiped the pad over my eyes. It’s quite pricey, but a little goes a long way so this bottle would last for months.
Best for: Oil-free formulation

NARS EYE MAKEUP REMOVER, £17.62 for 90ml (SPACE NK)
What they say: Enriched with Aloe and Cucumber, this mild yet effective formula gently removes all types of makeup.
The Results: I wear a lot of black eye makeup when I go out and saved this product for testing when I returned home. At that time of night, I want a product that can quickly and effectively remove my makeup so I can climb into bed. With gentle ingredients, like Aloe and Cucumber, I doubted whether this product would be powerful enough – but I was pleased to be proved wrong. It felt gentle and soothing on my eyes, but removed every trace of mascara and eyeliner after just a few sweeps. It seemed to attract and dissolve the makeup – I’ve never tried anything so effective. I’d strongly recommend it.
Best for: Removing heavy makeup

Blog: SHULA STARKEY, FOUNDER OF ARK HEALTH & BEAUTY, GIVES HER TOP TIPS ON HOW TO PROTECT SKIN AND KEEP IT GLOWING THIS SUMMER… (24.04.09)
Protect – Be sun smart and protect your skin against the premature ageing effects of the sun. Invest in SPF skin products, making sure you use them as part of your daily skincare routine.
Then 20 minutes before venturing outside apply a generous amount to your face and body, not forgetting your feet and ears. Remember, even when the sun isn’t shining its harmful rays can do damage, so stay protected!
Get a Safe Summer Glow – Instead of baking in the sun, why not treat yourself to a fake tan to achieve a natural looking golden glow – without the risk of damaging your precious skin. Try the original Ark St Tropez Bronzing Treatment, 75 min £60
Exfoliate - Our bodies shed skin cells every day, which results in dull, dry looking skin. Rejuvenation treatments such as exfoliations and deep moisturising masks restore skin’s health and balance. To keep your healthy glow, make sure you exfoliate 1-2 times a week. Invest in a good moisturiser and targeted serum. Daily body brushing is the best tip, always brushing towards your heart stimulating the lymphatic system, helping to eliminate the build up of toxins and encouraging healthy smooth skin. Try the Ark Hydro-Active Mineral Body Scrub, 49 min £49
Banish Cellulite- The dreaded orange peel effect may not rear its ugly head when we're wrapped up in winter layers but once summer arrives, cellulite alert kicks in. Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins and avoid tea and coffee, which are no good for circulation. Treat yourself to a massage to stimulate the circulatory and lymphatic systems that break down the fatty tissues in your body. A cellulite treatment can do wonders for the skin and really boast your confidence! Try the Ark Revive Cellulite Treatment 60mins £72
Remember your Cleavage - The neck and décolletage area are often neglected and suffer from premature ageing and sun damage without people realising. Some will put a sun factor on their face and often forget about their neck and décolletage. By paying attention to these areas, you can reduce the damage and the noticeable signs of ageing. Treat yourself to an Ark Cleavage Facial- during this treatment the face, neck and décolletage are cleansed, exfoliated, masked and moisturised, with rose oil-based treatments to smooth wrinkles, heal rough, damaged skin, whilst firming and re-hydrating. A soothing massage around your décolletage improves lymphatic drainage around the area, leaving your cleavage looking better than ever and ready to be flaunted on the beach. Try the Ark Cleavage Facial 75mins £75
Don't Forget your Feet - It's easy to neglect your feet during the winter. Get rid of winter feet by indulging yourself in a professional pedicure. The nails will be cleaned, shaped and moisturised, followed by a salt scrub, a relaxing foot massage and toe nails painted in a lovely summer colour. Try the Ark Luxury Pedicure 75min £50
All available at Ark centres in Wimbledon, Putney, Fulham and Holland Park www.arkhealthandbeauty.comT: 020 7731 8890

Spas & Treatments: DANIEL HERSHESON OXYGEN DETOX PEEL MASK (24.04.09)
What it promises: Designed exclusively for the spa by anti-ageing expert Dr Marko Lens this one-of-its-kind treatment uses topical liquid oxygen to revitalise dull, congested skin to increase elasticity and improve the appearance of fine lines.
What happens: I made my way to the fourth floor of iconic London store Harvey Nichols and stepped into the sleek, glossy interior of Daniel Hersheson’s salon. The small spa area is based at the rear of the salon – a series of treatment rooms with a serene, relaxing ambience. After reporting in at the large reception desk, I was lead into one of the neutrally-decorated rooms and asked to climb onto the fluffy-towel lined bed. The therapist began the treatment by covering my eyes with soft pads and thoroughly cleansing my skin to remove traces of makeup. She then worked an exfoliation cream into the skin, to slough away flakiness, before directing a gentle shower of steam towards my face to draw out impurities. After extraction, my skin was swept with oxygen serum, which contained delicious infusions of Almond and Chamomile, and treated to an oxygen mask containing Zinc and Vitamin E. The treatment was concluded with a light application of moisturiser to hydrate and pamper my skin.
Results: My therapist advised me to drink plenty of water after the treatment and avoid wearing makeup. My skin looked a little red immediately afterwards, due to the extraction, but quickly calmed. For the next few days, it felt amazingly plumped and smooth. Better still, blemishes disappeared, leaving the skin looking even-toned and clear. I’ll definitely be back.
Price: £90 for 120 minutes
Location: Daniel Hersheson, 4th Floor, Harvey Nichols, London SW1. 020 7201 8797. www.danielhersheson.com

Breaking New: LUSH LAUNCHES SPA WITH ENGLISH THEME (24.04.09)
We’re finding it hard to contain our excitement this week, with the news that Lush Cosmetics have launched their very first spa. The treatment rooms are situated at the Lush store on the Kings Road, London, and will be followed by future launches in Poole, Leeds, Kingston, and Glasgow. The spa has the theme of ‘Through the Looking Glass’, paying homage to the brand’s English roots. Inspiration has come from influences as diverse as birdsong, traditional English music, the scent of an English country garden, and a calming cup of tea in a cosy cottage kitchen. Mark Constantine, Managing Director of Lush, had a vision to bring customers a refreshing, amazingly effective experience in familiar, reassuring surroundings. Lucky customers are even given a cup of tea at the end to round off their pampering experience. We don’t know about you, but we can’t wait to visit… The spa is currently offering one signature treatment: Synaesthesia (£125 for 1.5 hours), which works to inspire and trigger every sense. Mark Constantine has scent-shape synaethesia, meaning that he perceives everything he smells as having a definite shape. He commissioned music by Simon Emmerson of The Imagined Village and worked closely with behaviour therapist Lady Helen Kennedy to create the ultra-relaxing, mood-changing massage. Other treatments will follow, including facials, a deep tissue massage, and foot treatments. As we’d expect from Lush, every treatment will be holistic – there will be no waxing, manicures, or eyebrow shaping. Customers wishing to book a Synaesthesia Massage should call 020 7376 8348.

Feature: FAKING IT (24.04.09)
Wish your hair had more oomph? Not blessed with perfect nails? Dream of a plumper pout? We’ve compiled the ultimate guide to faking your way to perfect looks.

NAILS
Flashing a set of acrylic nails has never been deemed as hip by the fashion pack – that is, until now. Thanks to the likes of Zoe Irwin, Creative Director at London’s Hari’s Salon, a hand full of embellished nails is the ultimate style statement for Spring/Summer 09. The salon is offering customers one of four fashion-forward nail designs, including sets inspired by Frost French, Dries Van Noten, and fashion illustrator Nuno Da Costa. The jewel in the crown, in our humble opinion, is the glittering Embellished design – a rainbow-bright, textured nail, inspired by the jewel-adorned accessories on the catwalk at Dolce and Gabbana and Mui Mui. A set costs £95 (Hari’s, 305 Brompton Road, London SW3 2DY). Biters take note… Those in need of a little extra length should take a trip to one of the UK’s coolest nail bars - Nails Inc – to choose from a menu of acrylic, fibreglass or gel extensions. The process is quick, comfortable, and affordable (from £8) – and there’s few better incentives to quit your gnawing habit. The brand’s tagline is ‘we won’t tell if you won’t’ – but we bet you’ll be too proud of your perfect-looking talons to keep quiet… (www.nailsinc.com)

HAIR
When it comes to our locks, we always want what we don’t possess. But now, thanks to a new generation of clip-ins, we no longer need to settle with what we were born with. Dream of a little va va voom? Hair extensions will transform flat, limp locks to full, flowing locks – but semi-permanent versions are expensive, time consuming, and difficult to care for. Step forward BaByliss Extensions, £30 (0870 513 3191) – newly launched strands that clip straight into and out of your hair for instant volume. Better still, the synthetic hair can be styled with heated rollers, curling irons, and straighteners up to a heat of 180°C. With eight colour to choose from (all of which are blends for a more natural look) there’s a shade to suit every hair hue. Toying with the idea of cutting a fringe? Cancel the appointment and invest in an American Dream Extensions Clip-In Fringe, from £7.11 (www.americandreamextensions.com) and you’ll be buying into the best of both worlds. For best results, take the extension along to your next hair appointment and ask your stylist to cut it to suit your current style. They aren’t easy to initially clip into your hair, but practice soon makes perfect.

LASHES
Fancy a fuller flutter? Once upon a time, buying false lashes for a special event involved walking up to the shelf and grabbing the only pair on display. There was no variation in style – the word ‘bespoke’ only applied if you took a pair of scissors and chopped them to size at your dressing table. They would often slip off mid-event – and that’s if you could apply them successfully in the first place…
False lashes, thankfully, have evolved. We consumers have a vast selection to choose from – from the fullest, retro-style blinkers, to the subtlest individual strands to fill out our flutters. For wow factor, you can’t beat B Never Too Busy To Be Beautiful’s Blinkers – a collection of fabulously full falsies, presented in equally dazzling gold glitter boxes. Our highlights are the aptly named Double Sized Eye, £11.75, and the glitter-trimmed Silver Lining, £11.75 (www.bnevertoobusytobebeautiful.com). Disco divas can get their fix with Eyelure’s newly launched range of Girls’ Aloud lashes – five signature styles to capture each of the band member’s personalities. Cheryl fans can build up their blinks with a set of dark, smouldering lashes with a slight flick – where as admirers of Kimberley’s more understated style can get their hands on a pair of delicate, fine lashes to enhance the natural shape. Each set costs just £5 (www.eylure.com). For a truly professional look, you can’t beat MAC’s 30 Lash, £8.32 (www.maccosmetics.co.uk) - three lengths of individual lash clusters, which allow you to build the look and length to your heart’s desire. It might take a little more time at the dressing table – but the results will be worth it.

WRINKLES
We’re used to hearing about revolutionary anti-ageing ingredients like Retinol, Peptides, and Coenzyme Q-10 that work over time – but what if we want faster results? Botox will instantly smooth the complexion – but few of us fancy the cost, let alone the syringe. Instant Wrinkle Fillers give us the opportunity to smooth and refine our complexion in one easy sweep – the results might be short-term, but there’s no easier way to fake your way to younger skin. There are plenty to choose from, but one of the most effective is Clarins Instant Smooth, £21.05 (http://uk.clarins.com) – a silky-smooth balm that fills and smoothes as it glides invisibly over the skin. The secret is in the inclusion of Acacia Micro-Pearls – miniscule spheres of dehydrated Acacia, which lodge themselves in lines and wrinkles and plump the skin as they absorb water. Another highlight – and a little lighter on the pocket – is Marks & Spencer’s Formula Instant Fix Line Eraser, £9.50 (www.marksandspencer.com). Again, the formula contains microspheres to fill and smooth wrinkles, but the light balm also features clever light diffusing pigments to create the impression of a smooth, grooveless complexion. Betters till, the compact pen will fit into the smallest handbag for top-ups on the go.

SKIN
A deep, natural tan would be nice – but few of us have the spare pennies to afford a trip to an exotic beach this summer. Self-tans are equally effective – but we’re forced to wait around for the results. What if we have five minutes before we head out the door and suddenly notice that our legs are white enough to blind approaching pedestrians? The answer is a quick application of Instant Tan. Thankfully, the beauty industry has noticed our impatience and launched a plethora of tanning products that provide results in mere seconds. Fake Bake has recently launched Faux Glo, £10.99 (www.fakebake.co.uk) – a spray can that provides a super-fast golden tan in an instant. The bottle features a clever 360-degree nozzle to give continuous spray (even upside down for those tricky-to-reach places). No need to scrub at the end of the day – jump in the shower and it’ll disappear with soap and water. L’Oreal has just jumped on the instant tan bandwagon, with the launch of their Sublime Bronze Tinted Self-Tanning Gel Instant Effect, £9.50 (www.feelunique.com). The product will produce a tan worthy of the Bermudas in seconds - but better still, the refreshing gel contains Vitamin E and gentle AHAs to smooth and condition your skin. For your face, invest in Jelly Pong Pong’s Omnibronze, £22 (www.jellypongpong.com). Like a natural tan, the formula contains no shimmer. The colour is impressively real. Keep it in your handbag and top up whenever you need to top up your tan.

LIP
Wish you had a little extra plump to your pout? Forget collagen – and instead turn to a gloss that promises to swell lips with a single sweep. Gone are the days of applying lip plumper and waiting for the sting. Thanks to Lipstick Queen’s Poppy King, plumping no longer needs to feel uncomfortable. Her newly launched range of Big Bang Theory Illusion Glosses, £18 (www.spacenk.co.uk) add volume to pouts with a formula that combines the perfect ratio of shimmer to shine. Poppy says: ‘It seems like every day there is a new lip plumping creation, most of which are uncomfortable to use… I’ve taken all my knowledge of lips and put all my energy into designing eight shades of gloss for a Big Bang effect. Don’t waste any more space on lip plumper’s that sting – with the right formula, the possibilities for fuller looking lips and luxurious comfort are infinite.”Our highlights from the range include Time, a shimmery golden nude, and Black Hole, a shimmery deep wine. The glosses have a space theme, with the tube designed to look like a test tube. Personally, we just like the fact it’s satisfying chunky, with ‘jump from the shelf’ retro packaging.

FEATURE: FIVE MINUTES WITH… (17.04.09)
So – what’s the secret to looking good in a high-profile job? We spend five minutes with The Sugababes, TV Presenter Emma Willis, Skincare expert Eve Lom, Celebrity Makeup Artist Ruby Hammer, Haircare royalty Sacha Mascolo-Tarbuck and Nail guru Marian Newman to ask them that very question…

FIVE MINUTES WITH… EMMA WILLIS
TV presenter Emma Willis, currently showing off a neat pregnancy bump, talks about desert island essentials, red carpet events, and paparazzi.
If I were stranded on a desert island, there are certain beauty products I would just have to have. Like mascara for example. I think that L’Oreal Voluminous Mascara is fantastic, and I have to have good haircare too. I use Head and Shoulders Damage Rescue Shampoo and Conditioner, which are great for my sensitive scalp. And life on a desert island would dry out my skin so I’d need to lather up with Skinbliss shower lotion every day.
I have to wear so much make-up when I’m working in TV that on a Sunday I like to do absolutely nothing beauty-wise. It’s essential to have a day free of make-up. I’m not really a fan of girly pampering nights either, so I much prefer to stay in and watch a good DVD with loads of food and my husband Matt!
Red carpet events are hard work when it comes to preparation. I reckon I can get ready in about an hour and a half, but that’s with lots of help from stylists and the hair and make-up experts. I’ve learned so much from them over my years in TV and before that, modelling – they are my saviours! My hairstylist Melissa Brown, is fantastic because she’s always recommending new products and gives me tips on how to style my hair at home.
I do have some rules when it comes to looking and feeling my best. I need lots of sleep and relaxation. I like to keep things simple, like wearing a favourite fragrance: I’m loving Stella by Stella McCartney at the moment... it’s gorgeous. Sometimes I spend a lot on my beauty routine, but I know when to save too. I splurge on moisturiser – I love the whole Lancome range. I think it’s important to use quality on your skin. But I do save money on everything else and I love budget brand make-up.
When you’re in the public eye, the paparazzi can pop up anywhere. Unlike a lot of stars though, I don’t mind getting ‘papped’ when I’m not wearing any make-up. And, well, if I’m having a bad hair day, I just wear a hat! Which famous women do I admire? I love beauty icons with great style, like Gwen Stefani who always looks great.
I modelled for years, travelling the world and working on amazing campaigns but I still have body hang-ups like anyone. I like my eyes: they’ve got a darker blue circle around the edge and people often stare at them. But despite having been a model, and being 5’8” and a size eight, I hate my legs. When it comes to surgery or Botox, my philosophy is never say never – I’m just not sure it’s for me. But I have no problems with anyone getting work done if it makes them happy. Whatever works for you!

FIVE MINUTES WITH.. SACHA MASCOLO-TARBUCK.
We chat to Sacha Mascolo-Tarbuck, Global Creative Director of Toni & Guy and daughter of founder Toni Mascolo OBE, about the beauty products she swears by, the addresses penned firmly in her diary, and the mistakes she’s learnt from along the way…
I love everything by Alexander McQueen, especially his scents. I’m currently wearing My Queen.
I’m a low maintenance girl, but I do make sure I get my cut regularly every six weeks - it’s the secret to effortless hair. I wash my hair in our new label.m Organic Shampoo and Conditioner – they are infused with Lemongrass and smell incredible.
My favourite spa is Shoreditch House - the perfect location for a quick city fix. I don't have heaps of time to visit Spas (I work full time and have two small children) so any chance to sneak some ‘me time’ in is welcomed. Facials are high on the list.
I get my hair cut and coloured at TONI&GUY Weybridge by Lydia and Kate. They do an amazing job and it’s always nice to be on the other side of the chair as a client, instead of the hairdresser. I love the salon experience.
Before I head off to the sun I always make time for a haircut, to rid myself of any dry/split ends and ensure my hair is in the best condition possible. Investing in a good intensive conditioner is a holiday must, it will help maintain the hair’s natural balance and protect against the UV rays, chlorine and sea salt.
My biggest style mistake was the late nineties trend for stripy colour. Looked great at the time (or so I thought) but one of those trends I am glad to have moved on from!

FIVE MINUTES WITH EVE LOM…
World-famous facialist Eve Lom’s skincare is loved by all the hottest Hollywood women from Kate Hudson to Eva Mendes. She gives us an insight into the products that sit on her own dressing table and the highlights of her career.
My skin philosophy, products and techniques all focus on a simple routine - cleansing, exfoliating and massaging the skin so it remains healthy and in good condition. Too often people overload their skin with too many products - the skin needs to be able to breathe to keep the cell renewal process in balance, which is the key to a fresh, young looking complexion.
My own must-have products include the Eve Lom Cleanser which I use daily in combination with a warm, damp muslin cloth to gently cleanse and exfoliate my face, neck and décolletage. The Eve Lom Rescue Mask is a real hero of mine specifically designed to enhance cleansing, exfoliation and decongestion through its special camphor based complexion booster. I also love the indulgent Eve Lom TLC cream, which is a real pick-me-up when my skin is feeling in need of deep hydration.
I have celebrity fans but I don’t talk about them as they like their anonymity and I believe it is really the people and friends who I treated and who acknowledged the results at the beginning of my career that got me where I am today.
Trends come and go, but my interest in creating and maintaining a healthy skin never goes out of fashion. If you have a healthy glowing skin your natural beauty shines through.

I’m neither for nor against plastic surgery. I think it’s 100% a personal choice. Personally, I keep my beauty regime very simple: I always use my own cleanser, and makeup wise if I need to wear a foundation I use Sisley and I like Max Factor mascaras.
I’ve always had a passion for holistic skincare and beauty. It really stemmed from my grandmother who was constantly treating our aches and pains with her natural remedies, chamomile for this, hops for that. I learned quickly that nature could provide very effective healing tools
The most memorable moment of my career was when I was working in LA early on in my career. I was an apprentice at Georgette Klinger’s salon and I sent a client that had a very oily skin home with the wrong products – an oil-based cleanser rather than an astringent, which we would normally have given her. Miraculously, she came back a couple of weeks later after using the new product with much improved skin. Although the initial mistake nearly got me fired, the fact that you could treat an oily skin condition with oil got me thinking and wanting to find out how and why this had worked – it was a real turning point for me.

Five minutes with… MARIAN NEWMAN
MARIAN NEWMAN, International Nail Guru and creator of the new Inkredibles, tells us about the products that sit on her own dressing table, the destination she’d love to escape to, and the change she wishes she’d never made.
My makeup bag essential is mascara! My lashes are too blond to be seen, but mascara gives them length. I’m currently using Lancôme Hypnôse. Mascara.
Although it’s long, my hair is pretty low maintenance. I change shampoo and conditioner regularly. I like products by Jurlique, Paul Labreque, and the Pantene Pro-V Ice range.
My favourite nail colour right now is grey – I’m currently wearing Pewter from my Inkredibles range. If it is too much on the fingers it looks great on the toes, especially when worn with the LBD (little black dress).
My beauty secret is sleep! I like a lot of sleep – if I don’t get enough, it really shows on my skin. I spend a lot of time in London pollution, so a good night’s sleep with clean and lightly moisturised skin works best for me
I would love to spend a week at the Mayr Clinic in Austria. It would kick start a fabulous new diet and I could enjoy a complete ‘forget the world’ relax
My teeth have never been straight and I hated them when I was younger. About 20 years ago, I had them straightened with crowns. They weren’t done very well and I’ve more recently spent a lot of money on veneers. These are much better, but I wish I had kept the ‘character look’ I had before and not been so vain.

FIVE MINUTES WITH… THE SUGABABES
Boys love them, girls want to be them, and fans just can’t get enough of their cool music and streetwise style. We chat to The Sugababes about what keeps them looking so good…

1. FAVE ICON
Amelle: I think Jennifer Lopez always looks beautiful. And I think Halle Berry’s stunning as well.
Keisha: I love the American R&B singer Brandy - she’s cool and talented – and I like that she keeps things real.
Heidi: I think Dita Von Teese is a real style icon. I love old-fashioned Hollywood glamour and she always looks amazing.

2. FASHION RULE
Amelle: Sometimes less is more. And try everything on before you decide whether it’s for you or not.
Keisha: Be original.
Heidi: You should only ever wear what you're comfortable in, and don’t be swayed by other people.
3. STYLE TIP
Amelle: If you learn to love your curls rather than fight against them – like I did as a child - you’ll not only cut down on styling time, you’ll also end up with a more natural and flattering look.
Keisha: I feel at my most glamorous when my hair is super straight and looks healthy and shiny.
Heidi: I have naturally straight and quite flat hair, so typically I love my hair big and with movement.
4. MANICURE SECRET
Amelle: Right now, I’m into painting my nails a lot. I’m a big fan of bright colours, but I also still love the natural look.
Keisha: I’m a French manicure kind of girl, too – I like to keep my nails simple, glossy and chic.
Heidi: I loved the pillar-box red polish that matched the red dress I wore to Nelson Mandela’s birthday party this summer.
5. PIECE OF ADVICE
Keisha: Always keep it simple. You don’t want to overdo it with too much makeup: it’s much better to let your natural beauty show through.
Heidi: Everyone has ‘off days’ but my advice is to surround yourself with people who love you no matter what you look like first thing in the morning.Amelle: I spend so much time wearing makeup for photo-shoots that the best tip I’ve ever received is when you have a day off, try to give your hair and skin a day off too.
6. CAN’T-LIVE-WITHOUT COSMETIC
Amelle: Right now, I can’t get enough red lipstick.
Keisha: I love my lipgloss, I always wear it – it gives my lips a very juicy look!
Heidi: A lash lengthening mascara. I was at an awards ceremony recently and someone asked if I was wearing fake lashes: that’s how good my mascara was!

FIVE MINUTES WITH… RUBY HAMMER
International Make-up Artist and Entrepreneur Ruby Hammers shares her essential beauty buys, favourite hangouts, and beauty mishaps she’d rather forget.
I always use an exfoliating cream, such as Aveda Botanical Kinetics Exfoliant - it’s mild enough for everyday use and gently peps up the whole complexion.
I don't wear a perfume. Instead I use the Aromatherapy Associates Renew Rose range and the body cream is my scent - people always comment when I wear it.
I think red nails look fabulous for special occasions, but it doesn’t matter whether your nails are long and pointed or short and square, as long as they’re well groomed and cared for.
I love the Agua Spa at Sanderson Hotel, London. It’s so tranquil and the perfect way to relax.
I dream about the One and Only Reethi Rah in the Maldives (www.oneandonlyresorts.com) - I’ve been and it was the most luxurious spa experience - it was phenomenal. I’d go back again and again!
My biggest beauty disaster was when I overplucked my eyebrows when I was 14. I gave my parents quite a shock when they found me as I had removed almost all the hair. I also am afraid to say that I subconsciously pick spots. This is particularly bad as my skin is dark and it leaves dark black marks that take months to clear or even scar.

TRIED & TESTED: T&T: Lash Enhancers (17.04.09)
Fancy a fuller flutter? We’ve tested six products and treatments that promise to dramatically lengthen and thicken lashes.

LVL LASH EXTENSIONS, from £75 (www.lvl-lashes.co.uk)
What they say: This innovative new treatment by Nouveau Lashes will lend a remarkable amount of length, thickness and uplift to your very own eyelashes. The whole process takes around 45 minutes and will last the life of your eyelashes (approx 8-12 weeks).
What we say: The lashes were fitted during one easy appointment. Glue was applied to my lower and upper lash line and the therapist added the lashes individually to each eye. They were then darkened to match my natural colour. I was given an aftercare kit, which included a lotion to comb through the lashes every morning. The experience was quick, comfortable, and I’m really impressed with the results – the lashes are still going strong four weeks later. The extra length to my lashes has opened up my eyes and made them look much bigger. I would definitely do this again – it’s not cheap, but the perfect fix for a special occasion or holiday.
Best for: Long-term results

LASH ALIVE, £79 for 9 MONTHS SUPPLY (www.lashalive.co.uk)
What they say: Blended with 19 Organic Greek Essential Plant Oils, Lash Alive naturally grows lashes and prevents their premature loss.
What we say: I used to boast a thick set of lashes, but have noticed recently that they’re looking very sparse. I had high hopes for this product and wasn’t disappointed. I found it really easy to apply – simply sweeping it across my upper and lower lash line like an eyeliner. I used the product twice daily for three weeks. After the first week, I could already see an improvement and three weeks on, the results are quite impressive. The spaces in my lash line have filled and they look thicker and healthier than they have in a long time.
Best for: Those prone to eyelash loss

PIXI LASH BOOSTER MASCARA, £16 (www.pixibeauty.com)
What they say: A lash defining, lengthening and thickening water-resistant mascara. The dense, rich formula ensures that lashes are coated with maximum “carbon” pigment, for long lasting full colour.
What we say: I found this mascara wand really easy to use – the full rounded brush reaches all lashes in one or two sweeps. The mascara was waterproof, but didn’t leave a residue around my eyes as other brands do. The formula was clump free and didn’t clog on my lashes or the brush. The mascara gave great coverage that lasted all day without the need to top up mid afternoon. Easily removed at the end of the day with a makeup wipe, I would certainly recommend this brand and will use it again.
Best for: Everyday use

RIMMEL LASH MAXX, £6.84 (www.rimmellondon.co.uk)
What they say: This mascara promises Three Times Lash Multiplying effect mascara with break though zero clump applicator. The precision wand captures and coats every lash. For a feathery, flirty lash look.
What they say: I loved the vibrant packaging of this mascara – a fun break from the norm. The rounded wand handle was easy to grip and control. The wand had a double line of comb teeth and this daunted me at first, as my usual brand has a brush. However, I found the comb lengthened my lashes and left them clump-free. My lashes appeared plumper and longer, and the waterproof formula didn’t clump or leave residue in the eye area. I found it really easy to remove at the end of the day.
Best for: Short lashes

ARDELL RUNWAY MAKEUP ARTIST COLLECTION LASHES GISELE IN BLACK, £4.95 (www.nailsbymail.co.uk)
What they say: These professional eyelashes are the perfect way to add a glamorous touch to any outfit. Like their stunning supermodel namesake, they give you a glamorous runway look.
What we say: I found these lashes quite fiddly to apply and needed quite a bit of practice to get the application right. Once in place, however, they looked stunning. They’d be great for special occasions and, with a big sweep of eyeliner, they give a dramatic 1960’s look. I would definitely recommend a practice session before the big night, but the effort is well worth it.
Best for: Dramatic eyes

BODY COLLECTION INDIVIDUAL FALSE EYELASHES, £2.99 (www.lovethymakeup.com)
What they say: Create gorgeous, yet natural looking eyes with these individual false lashes. Available in three different sizes for the inner, central and outer lashes.
What we say: By far the easiest false lashes I have ever applied! As the lashes are individual, you can add a few here and there depending on the desired look instead of being designated with a full set of the same length. These lashes come in varied sizes and shapes so you can opt for the lashes that look the best on your lids. Each cluster of lashes is easily secured and I created the desired look after minutes.
Best for: A bespoke look

BREAKING NEWS: TRIA BEAUTY LAUNCHES REVOLUTIONARY HAIR-REMOVAL SYSTEM (17.04.09)
Our favourite time of year is fast approaching. It won’t be long before we’re digging out our bikinis, pulling summer dresses out of hibernation, and heading out into the sunshine. Of course, the only drawback to summer is all that hair removal… This week, we have found the perfect solution. Treat yourself to TRIA’s brand new Laser Hair Removal System and razors, smelly creams, and trips to expensive salons will become little more than a distant memory.
The new TRIA Laser Hair Removal System is the first and only hand-held laser for at-home hair removal cleared by the FDA. The device is twice as fast as the original TRIA model launched in 2007, providing virtually hair-free results after once-a-month treatments over a six-month period.
The new TRIA system is priced at £675 – a small price to pay when you consider the future saving you will make on hair-removal. And it isn’t just money you will be saving, but time too. Imagine getting into the shower and not having to worry about shaving – or heading off on holiday without having to book into the salon before you go.
TRIA Laser Hair Removal System was developed by the same team of scientists that invented the professional technology in 1993. It uses that same laser technology and provides the same results as those professional devices, which are still considered the gold standard among dermatologists and plastic surgeons. The majority of other at home hair removal devices work with low level pulsed light technology, not laser, which removes hair in the short term but does not efficiently disable the hair during treatment, meaning it will grow back.
“TRIA Beauty is forging a completely new category in beauty, bringing a professional, highly effective solution to the common issue of unwanted hair,” said Kevin Appelbaum, CEO of TRIA Beauty. “Hair removal is a consumer need that has not seen any meaningful innovation in decades, and we are committed to bringing best-in-class technology that will finally offer consumers a solution they can use in the privacy of their home. TRIA Laser brings hair removal into the 21st century, giving women and men the freedom from metal blades and hot wax.”
The new TRIA Laser Hair Removal System is available at www.tria.co.uk

SALON REVIEW: Salon Review: Sassoon Flagship Salon (17.04.09)
Location: 60 South Molton Street, London, W1K 5SW. 020 7491 8848 www.sassoon.com
The salon: After falling in love with Sassoon’s new Spring / Summer 09 Hair Collection – Blithe - full of soft, silky styles and rich, dreamy colours, it would have been impossible to turn down a trip to their super-swanky salon on South Molton Street. Nestled between designer boutiques and fancy fine art establishments you might think it could be something of a tricky task to stand out in such a couture crowd, but you’d be wrong, for Sassoon’s star salon has pulled out all the stops - and thanks to its dazzling glass frontage, certainly can’t be missed. Beautifully bright, incredibly light and delightfully airy, despite visiting on a gloriously sunny day, the floor-to-ceiling mirrors and gleaming white interior were proof enough that the salon would remain radiant come wind, rain or shine.
Oblong in shape and size, the hair haven is neatly divided into two, with the reception playing partition. At the front is the shop area where punters can peruse the products without feeling pressured to book an appointment, and towards the back is the cut and colour area, complete with wash basins and bathroom. Regardless of the rectangular shape, the full-length mirrors in front of each styling station not only make the space feel much bigger, but means that when your new ‘do is ready to be unveiled, you get to admire the finished article fully – from top-to-toe, rather than just your top-half. It’s also interesting to note that the wash basins aren’t your standard set-up either, and instead of retreating behind the basins to wash your hair, the stylists perch on one side to rinse your locks. Not that that’s a problem, because these guys know what they’re doing. Famed for their top-notch training, it would seem Sassoon attracts a high-class calibre of stylists from across Europe. From Swedish scissorhands Ida (aka the Senior Creative Director) who will cut, crop and fashion your hair into a model masterpiece, to the first-class colouring skills of Leeds lad Stephen (Level 3 Colourist), you can’t fail to get caught up in the staff’s passion and pride for the salon - and whether you want a full-on catwalk creation or just a tidy little trim, they’re guaranteed to jump to it with all the passion and vigour of Vidal himself.
Services: Cut (from £61), colour (£56 for a colour tint / £156 for a full head of highlights), blow dry, £34.

BLOG: MAC SENIOUR ARTIST, NEIL YOUNG, ON BEAUTY MERGING WITH SCIENCE (17.04.09)
For many years, women have hated the idea of wearing makeup for a number of reasons. Mainly because cosmetic companies created formulations that sat on the skin, blocking pores and aggravating certain skin conditions. These days with a huge help from Mother Nature and advances in science it's a totally different story. With environmental stress factors, the sun, pollution and ever-changing weather, there has never been a better time to wear makeup. Product development teams around the world are seamlessly blending science with beauty creating foundations, blushers and eyeshadows that actually nourish and protect the skin from these factors. Packed with a cocktail of multi vitamins, sun protection factors and anti-free radicals, there really has never been a better time to stay protected whilst looking beautiful! With the rise of products that enhance features - whether it's the skin or the eyes - makeup is designed to look like it belongs! At the international collections in New York, Milan, London and Paris the key trends for Autumn/Winter 09 were all about skin that appeared to glow from within - further supporting the idea that makeup should nourish the skin to make it appear at it's absolute best. Products used to achieve this were MAC Moisture Lush Cream, followed by MAC Studio Sculpt Foundation. This new edition to the Mac foundation portfolio combines coverage and ingredients that plump and firm the skin. With continued use, the skin appears smoother and firmer. Applied with MAC's 190 brush, this foundation glides on effortlessly - a must for anyone’s makeup bag and, even better, its available now on shelves near you.
Visit www.maccosmetics.co.uk

TREATMENT REVIEW: Treatment: Crystal Wand Healing Facial (10.04.09)
What it promises: 
"Totally holistic and nurturing the soul through a journey of sensory relaxation" is how it's described by the creators. This pampering and unique treatment combines the healing energy of crystals and the naturally derived skin nutrition of Natria to bring you balance, harmony and amazing skin.
What happens: Treat Balham is situated just a few minutes walk from Balham station, South West London. The décor is simple, but incredibly stylish – candles burning, comfy floral cushions, and magazines dotted around the reception area. Over a cup of Green Tea, I discussed with my therapist my lifestyle, skin type, and what I hoped to gain from the treatment. As I lay on the bed in the treatment room, crystals were placed in my hands, on my stomach and heart - a combination of Rose Quartz and Amethyst to maximise healing properties. These were moved around during the treatment, to be placed near my ankles, on my eyes and next to my hands. I was asked to take seven deep breaths, which encouraged me to switch off and sink into relaxation. The therapist’s attention then turned to my face, using products from the Natria range to cleanse, exfoliate, and nourish my skin. 
I then enjoyed a relaxing massage, focusing on my chest, arms, shoulders and head, during which crystals were incorporated in the process and used to rub my shoulders and arms. This was so relaxing that I was drifting in and out of sleep the whole time and found the experience extremely calming, especially against the soft background music. The treatment was concluded with a short Indian Head massage, which helped to rouse me from my sleepy state. I was allowed a few minutes to wake up, before being given a shot of Zambroza - a natural blend of juices, rich in antioxidants.
Results: 
I was told that there maybe a few side effects after the facial, such as feeling tired, breaking out in blemishes as the impurities left my skin, or suffering from a headache - but I didn’t suffer any of these. I was extremely relaxed and went home that evening to enjoy a fantastic 12 hour sleep! It’s probably not the ideal treatment for those looking for a traditional facial - but if you want to relax and give your skin a pick-me-up, then I’d highly recommend it. 

Price - £55 for 1 hour

Location: Treat Balham, Hildreth Street Mews, Balham, SW12 9RZ. 0208 673216. www.treat-balham.co.uk

 

Breaking News: THE BODY SHOP TEAMS UP WITH MTV TO LAUNCH TANTALISING LIP BUTTER, RAISING MONEY FOR STAYING ALIVE FOUNDATION (10.04.09)
Not got a pot of Tantalising Lip Butter stashed away in the bottom of your handbag? How very last season! The eye catching product is the creation of The Body Shop and MTV, who have teamed up to support the Staying Alive Foundation – a charity on a mission to save lives through empowering young people around the world to protect themselves and their communities against HIV and AIDS.
The pot’s lid reads ‘YES, YES, YES!’ and this is one campaign we’ve all got to shout about. Shockingly, every day over 3000 young people are newly infected with HIV. Nearly half of all new HIV/AIDS cases are among 15-24 year olds, so there’s never been a better time to get behind a safe sex campaign.
Each pot of irresistible lip butter, which contains Shea Butter, Organic Beeswax, and extracts of Dragonfruit to keep your pout kissably soft, costs just £5 – with 100% of money raised going directly to the charity. There are few better excuses to indulge in a little retail therapy - but you better be quick as the product will only be brightening up shelves until early May.
Buy online at www.thebodyshop.co.uk
For more information on The Staying Alive Foudation, visit www.staying-alive.org

Blog: DAILY EXPRESS WRITER CLAIRE BRAYFORD JOINS THE A-LISTERS (10.04.09)
Did you know that Gwyneth Paltrow, Holly Willoughby, Elle Macpherson and Queen Rania of Jordan are all patrons of Neville’s Hair and Beauty in Knightsbridge? Me neither, but then I never choose a salon by its client-list. I believe back-to-back paying customers are a far greater indicator of quality than freebie-toting stars. But over the last 15 years in the business, Neville Tucker, has become the ‘Godfather’‚ of celebrity hairdressers. Now the buzzy hub which he has built up with his wife and business partner Elena, is being transformed by Claridges, the architects behind London’s iconic White Cube gallery, into one of the hottest new super-salons in town. So ahead of the grand opening, I braved the builders to do some star-spotting of my own, as well as test out Neville’s new signature Wow treatment. The special pampering package includes a Mist-ifying hair treatment, as well as a deluxe manicure and pedicure, all finished off by a professional blow-dry. The conditioning treatment is apparently all-the-rage in Japan for quenching tortured tresses, and works by spraying microscopic water particles, smaller than steam, onto the follicles to allow the Kerastase deep-conditioning masque to really penetrate. By the time my head hit the swanky new black leather backwash, I had practically fallen asleep, so all I remember was a pleasant breeze of warm air during a delicious 20-minute head massage. But I had been proudly informed beforehand that Petra Nemcova is a fan, so I knew I was in good hands. While being Mist-ifyed I also enjoyed an excellent manicure including full cuticle work and a relaxing hand massage. I loved that the therapist added a third coat of sheer pink to boost my natural colour choice and that she painted them super-fast, I always think that is the sign of a true pro. Next came the blow-dry/pedicure. At most salons my usual request for big and bouncy results in flat with fried ends, but this time I was in for a pleasant surprise. I was positioned away from the mirror as my feet soaked, so I couldn’t see the work in progress. That just meant when I turned around for my ‘big reveal’‚ the transformation was even more remarkable. My hair had more bounce than Cheryl Cole’s extensions (sorry this star endorsement is catching) and it was glossy to boot. Suddenly I understood the meaning behind the title ‘celebrity salon’. After an hour-and-a-half I hadn’t seen a single star but I left feeling like a true A-lister.
The Mist-ifying treatment at Neville’s Hair and Beauty, £60.
Call: 020 7235 3654 or visit www.nevillehairandbeauty.net

Tried & Tested: BLEMISH SOLUTIONS (10.04.09)
There’s nothing worse than feeling the tingle of a blemish appearing – especially during the warmer months, when you want to keep your makeup light and natural. We’ve tried six products that promise to stop spots in their tracks.

ORIGINS SPOT REMOVER, £9.79 (www.origins.co.uk)
What they say: Salicylic Acid zeroes in on even the angriest blemishes and penetrates pores to speed healing and reduce redness without drying the skin.
The Results: I’m a big fan of Origins, so as soon as a spot reared its ugly head I was confident that this would clear it – I wasn’t disappointed. The cream easily blended onto my skin and immediately began to sting a little – I took it as a sign that it was working. It didn’t leave any sticky residue and, rather than leaving me with that familiar uncomfortable tight feeling that so many spot creams give you, my skin still felt smooth and supple. The next morning the redness was reduced and it only took a further two applications (once every evening) for my spot to disappear.
Best for: Sensitive skin

CLINIQUE ANTI-BLEMISH SOLUTIONS BODY SPRAY, £12.72 (www.clinique.co.uk)
What they say: A gentle, medicated treatment that works to prevent breakouts by using a delivery method for with Salicylic Acid that slowly infuses the skin with multiple benefits.
The Results: I’m prone to breakouts on my back and chest and have been worrying about baring my shoulders this summer, so I was more than a little keen to try out this brand new spray. The 360-degree pump meant I could reach all the areas on my back easily – it even worked upside down and at funny angles. It absorbed quickly into my skin and didn’t leave a mark on my clothes. I used the spray twice a day in the morning and evening after a shower and after a week there has been a definite improvement. I’m already recommending this to all my friends.
Best for: All over relief

CLEARASIL SPOT BLOCKER PEN, £6.82 (www.clearasil.co.uk)
What they say: Contains maximum strength spot fighting ingredients in a fast absorbing formula that penetrates deep into pores to reduce the size and redness of spots.
The Results: I loved the modern look of this mess-free application pen – it looks more like a lip-gloss than a spot cream. It’s the perfect size to throw in my bag, so that I can whip it out whenever I feel a new spot appearing. For my existing spots, I applied the liquid straight to the head of the blemish. It absorbed into my skin quickly and when I reapplied concealer it didn’t give that annoying dried-out flaky look. Although it’s a great product it didn’t work as well as I’d hoped it would and three days later I still had quite an angry looking spot. I’d recommend it to friends who have smaller pimples, rather than acne.
BEST FOR: On-the-go relief

DARPHIN BLEMISH CLEARING GEL, £17.62 (www.darphin.co.uk)
What they say: Applied directly to your blemish, this gel helps to reduce excess oil, eliminate dead cells and release the blocked pores. It will also purify the skin in order to prevent future breakouts.
The Results: I adore this product. It’s pricier than I’m usually prepared to pay for spot cream, but is definitely worth the money for the fantastic results. The lightweight gel quickly formed an invisible film over my blemish and I could feel it working immediately. One of the most surprising elements is the gorgeous fresh, floral scent. It contains Lavender, Sage, Geranium and Niaouli essential oils to purify and soothe skin, as well as reducing excess oil around the spot. This gel is perfect for adult acne – it’s luxurious, grown-up, and gently heals spots without drying out skin. After just two applications, my spot had disappeared. I’d highly recommend it.
Best for: Adult breakouts

GARNIER ANTI-IMPERFECTIONS PEN, £4.69 (www.garnier.co.uk)
What they say: This ultra-fast working gel has a high concentration of Salicylic acid and a drying effect, so skin is left clearer and imperfections vanish.
The Results: This size of this product is great – it’s small enough to pop in a handbag for treating blemishes on the go As. soon as I put the gel onto my spot, it began to sting and I could feel the skin on and around the spot drying out. I wouldn’t recommend this to anyone who has sensitive skin, but it’s great that it works so quickly to dry up excess sebum. The cucumber extract gave the gel a gorgeous, fresh scent and the slim nozzle means you can apply it directly to your spot, rather than using your finger and risk spreading bacteria. I used this product daily – and although it didn’t work instantly, it definitely calmed the blemish and stopped it getting any worse.
Best For: Drying out and calming spots

NEUTROGENA VISIBLY CLEAR SPOT STRESS CONTROL- HYDRATING SPOT TREATMENT, £4.49 (0845 601 5789)
What they say: Microclear technology allows spot fighting ingredients to penetrate deep down to help clear spots. Also contains green tea and cucumber to soothe the skin.
The Results: Neutrogena rarely fail to impress me and I wasn’t disappointed with this newest offering. The bright and colourful packaging would appeal to me on the shelf and the easy-squeeze tube gave me just the right amount for application. The liquid can be applied to areas of skin affected by spots, rather than to one individual spot. As soon as I put the liquid on it formed a clear ‘film’ over the area of spots to protect them from further germs – genius! It was gentle on my skin and didn’t sting or dry it out. The cucumber ingredients kept my skin hydrated and within three days (applying once or twice daily) my spots had cleared up considerably.
Best for: Everyday Use

FEATURE: Beauty School (10.04.09)
Blue-eyes, frizzy-hair, heart-shaped face? If you’re unsure about what hair and make-up flatters your features, don’t panic, just follow these rules religiously and you’ll be top of the beauty class in no time.

Lesson 1: Know your face shape
One of the main factors to consider when going for the chop is what face shape you’ve been blessed with, because as harsh as it may sound, unless you have a perfectly oval outline, there’s going to be some hairstyles that just won’t suit you. To avoid getting your coif consigned to the sin bin, decipher your face shape by drawing around your hair line on a mirror using a lip or eye liner.
Round: ‘The trick with a round face is to find a style that elongates it and doesn't accentuate the roundness - try a long Jennifer Anniston look as this draws the face length-wards and detracts from the widest part by leaving the heavy bulk around the ends.’ Richard Ward
Long: ‘Having a fringe will make your face appear shorter, although avoid overly short fringes as these will exaggerate the length of the face. Short and mid-length hair is ideal, but if you do want long hair, ensure that you inject volume and width into your style by adding texture - wearing it sleek runs the risk of making your face appear even longer.’ Sacha Mascolo-Tarbuck, Toni&Guy
Oval: ‘The classic bob is perfect - by encouraging the hair to nestle into the jaw line you create a balance which is flattering and complimentary. Although oval is the most versatile shape, full fringes can look too heavy so if you are going to have one cut in, make sure it’s very soft and textured.’ Andrew Collinge
Heart: ‘Heart-shaped faces need to avoid anything jaw length or shorter. Shoulder length works perfectly as it elongates the face, and you can also get away with styles that have height and volume - as long as they avoid width. One length bobs work well too.’ Richard Ward
Triangle: ‘Flattering lengths for triangle-shaped faces are the opposite of styles that suit our heart-shaped friends - go for short or long hair but avoid mid-lengths as this will ruin the balance.’ Lucie Doughty, Paul Mitchell
Square: ‘Square face shapes work really well with mid-length, soft, textured cuts as they soften the jaw line. Avoid geometric cuts, unless you’re really trying to make a statement, in which case they can look stunning.’ Gary Ingham
Homework: Remember to work with what you’ve got – if you’ve got a double-chin, bobs help to shrink them; if you’ve got a high forehead, choose a side-parting. The tools of the trade are crucial too. For smooth, sleek hair, invest in Paul Mitchell’s Super Skinny Serum, £13.50 (0845 659 0013) or for texture and root lift, choose Label.m’s new Resurrection Style Dust, £9.25 (www.labelm.co.uk).

Lesson 2: Understand your hair type
Not everyone has naturally glossy locks or perfectly formed curls, in fact most people’s daily routine is made up of numerous sprays, serums and styling tools all claiming to de-grease, de-frizz, smooth, soften, and boost the barnet. However, what most people fail to realise, is that the key to managing your mane is to work with it rather than against it. By choosing a style that suits your hair type and texture, you won’t be fighting against its natural shape and form - and let’s face it, no-one with unruly ringlets can pull off an Agyness Deyn crop without looking like a beauty school dropout anyway!
Frizzy
‘With frizzy hair you can either embrace it or straighten it. For an easy life, go with the frizz and have a graduated cut that'll build shape into the hair. Disconnected layers are also good - think hippy chick chic.’ Rae Palmer, Rae Palmer Hairdressing
Fine
‘Crops and short styles suit fine hair - especially adaptations of the bob that use graduation to build shape; think textured hair and severe bold styles with blunt, straight fringes.’ Ben Randle, Umberto Giannini
Thick
‘Long, or at least below shoulder-length is ideal to weigh thick hair down, while layers and sweeping fringes lighten the appearance of heavy styles.’ Ben Randle, Umberto Giannini
Curls
‘Curly hair is similar to frizzy in terms of cut and texture, so again graduated cuts give a stronger shape and structure to the hair. Curly hair looks fabulous when it's tousled and beachy, so leave to dry naturally and use a good shampoo and conditioner to moisturise and separate.’ Rae Palmer, Rae Palmer Hairdressing
Naturally straight
‘Straight hair looks great bobbed - it's stunning and sleek and you get a nice clean line to it. Have a really precise cut or alternatively, grow it really, really long. Serum is fab for straight hair to keep it healthy and banish flyaways.’ Rae Palmer, Rae Palmer Hairdressing
Homework: Always use products that are tailored to your hair-type. To banish frizz try TRESemmé’s new Frizz Control Finishing Cream, £4.29 (Supermarkets Nationwide); Tommy Guns Moulding Texturising Paste, £5.86 (Boots) is great for adding body to fine hair, and to boost curls invest in Tara Smith’s organic C Curls shampoo and conditioner, £4.99 (www.cultbeauty.co.uk). For thick hair, smoothing creams should be at the top of your wishlist, especially the UV-friendly Angel Fish Heat Protecting and Smoothing Cream, £4.99 (Boots).

Lesson 3: Learn your colour chart
The first lesson to learn when you’re hunting for the perfect hair hue is that certain colours only suit certain skin tones, otherwise it can leave your complexion looking washed out, dull and drab. If you don’t know your skin tone don’t panic, because there’s only two colour categories to fall into – warm (orange-based) or cool (blue-based). To find out which end of the rainbow you sit at, dig out two items of clothing – one that’s peach, bronze, orange or yellow (warm) and another that’s purple, pink, green or blue (cold), remove any hair from around your face and then hold both items up next to you - one will make your skin look vibrant and bring out your features; the other won’t.
‘The best idea is to ask a colour consultant at a reputable salon to help you decide the colours that will suit you but as a general rule, cool complexions suit ash blonde, natural brown, mahogany or plum shades while warm complexions suit golden blondes, honey, copper and rich chocolate browns.’ Andrew Collinge
‘Any person can wear any colour but the tones have to be right. If you have a cool complexion then keep to the colour spectrum of blue toned reds and blondes and deep dark colours; and if you have a warm complexion choose honey blondes, warm reds and chestnuts. Asian skins should go four depths away from their natural base (either lighter or darker), while Afro hair suits vibrant reds, warm blacks and deep rich browns.’ Mario Charalambous, Richard Ward
‘A great tip to follow is that if you want your hair to look natural, you should never choose a colour lighter than your skin. If you’re looking to go blonde, those with a more pink or olive toned skin should opt for a neutral or soft ash shade, while those with warmer, yellow toned skin should pick a rich gold, gentle copper or neutral shade.’ Ian Michael Black, Aveda
‘Olive and Mediterranean skin tones are the most versatile and can carry off both warm and cool shades from light browns to ultra-violet blacks, think Angelina Jolie and Salma Hayek. If you’re more of an English Rose, neutral to mid browns, caramels and toffee colours will be most complimentary.’ Sacha Mascolo-Tarbuck, Toni&Guy
Homework: For a brighter, longer-lasting colour, use a specially-formulated shampoo and conditioner that doesn’t contain sulphates (these strip the colour from the hair). Umberto Giannini’s colour care range, from £4.39 (Boots) is carefully customised for blondes and brunettes, while Aveda’s Color Conserve shampoo, £12.23 and conditioner, £13.21 (www.aveda.co.uk) are a must for those who like to mix and match their colours. Keep your tint topped up between appointments with S Factor’s Color Savvy Balance Boosters, £19.50 (0844 844 0944).

Lesson 4: Love the skin you’re in
The ‘one size fits all’ approach just isn’t going to work when it comes to cosmetics, especially foundations. Instead, a much more calculated course of action needs to be taken before you can earn yourself a gold star in the flawless features division. Nevertheless, once you’ve found the answer, you’ll be able to add complementary colours, contour like a pro, and multiply your make-up skills tenfold. And remember, the best place to test your foundation is on your jawline, not the back of your hand, so you can make sure you get the perfect match between your face and neck and avoid any unsightly tide marks.
‘In order to choose the right make-up for your skin it’s important to determine what skin tone you have - this will usually fall under one of five different categories - fair, rosy, deep, dark and olive. As a general rule you can then divide the skin tones into two pairings - either cool (fair, rosy) or warm (deep, dark, olive) – that way it makes it much easier to find the correct shade for your skin.’ Daniella Novak, Celebrity make-up artist, Barry M
‘Pale skin tones are normally neutral toned and should go for foundations without pink in them. Asian and Olive skins are normally golden toned so require more yellow in the foundation, and black skins need a lot more red and deeper yellow tones. Black skins should also avoid foundations with white in them as the skin will look grey. Always ask for a sample to take home with you so you can try it out in the daylight and get a true impression of the foundation on the skin.’ Lynne Sanders, founder of Cosmetics A La Carte
‘Ethnic skin is prone to eczema and along with blemishes can leave dark patches of pigmentation so you need to choose a foundation that’s built on warm honey or red earth tones -this helps to enliven the skin and give it a natural glow.’ Beverley Binda, founder of blouse&skirt cosmetics
‘I’ve experimented with countless foundations over the years and I’ve found that yellow-toned foundations always look the most natural because everyone has yellow undertones in their skin – only 1% of people need a pink tone and that’s for those who sunburn even in the shade.’ Bobbi Brown
Homework: If you’re struggling to find a foundation that looks and feels like a second skin, visit somewhere like Cosmetics a La Carte and take advantage of their Custom Blend service so you can leave with a bespoke base for you (www.cosmeticsalacarte.com). For black skin, try the blouse&skirt cosmetics line, from £10 (www.blouseandskirtcosmetics.com) – the cream-to-powder foundations go on like a dream and are available in sixteen different shades.

Lesson 5: Pick your palette
Cast your mind back to when you learnt about primary, secondary and tertiary colours in art class. Now fast forward and see if you apply any of those underlying principles of mixing and matching to your existing make-up kit. Thought as much, but by picking out a personalised palette, you can completely alter your look. From plumping lips to making eyes pop, the right shades can even make your hair appear more beautiful and bright. So whether you play it safe with brown and beige or clash with orange and blue, one of the best things about beauty school is that no-one cares if you break the rules - and it’s the perfect way to find out what suits you too. As a guide, use your natural eye and skin colourings to dictate your products.
Eyes
‘If you have green eyes, wear eye shadows in purple and leafy green to accentuate them. Gold or anything with a yellow undertone will make blue eyes sparkle, while brown eyes look amazing next to navy blue lids.’ Rachel Wood, Benefit
‘One of the main rules for making your eyes stand out is to use a contrasting colour, if you have blue eyes then use neutral brown shades, or for a smoky effect use charcoals and blacks. Green or hazel eyes look lovely in plum or purple shades.’ Daniella Novak, Barry M
‘Fair skins look healthy and glowy with pastel candy tones on the eyes – pinks and lilacs especially, but avoid anything too bright. Olive skins suit rich, earthy colours like golds, bronzes, greens, browns and terracotta, while black skins suit bright and vibrant shades.’ Cassie Lomas, Bourjois
Lips
‘Pale skins suit paler lip shades, clear brights and most nudes; medium skin tones can take slightly more colour and can wear almost any shade - particularly those with a mauve, brown or red undertone, while dark skin tones look great in bold and bright colours - just avoid anything too pale and pearly.’ Lynne Sanders, founder of Cosmetics A La Carte
‘The perfect neutral shade will generally be close in tone to your natural lip colour - you’ll know you’ve found the right shade when it enhances the skin and gives the face a lift. Once you’ve identified the right neutral shade, you have the basis for selecting more dramatic colours with the same undertone.’ Bobbi Brown
‘Anyone, no matter what colour their eyes, lips or skin tone can wear red lipstick, you just have to know which ones to try. Most red shades look stunning when paired with fair skin and blonde hair; for pale skin and dark hair, a true red works better; for dark hair and olive skin try orangey reds, and if you have dark hair and dark skin, a brick or burgundy red is guaranteed to look gorgeous.’ Lee Pycroft, Rimmel
Homework: Barry M’s purse-friendly Dazzle Dust comes in a vast array of shades so you’ll have no trouble finding something that suits – for a soft purple shimmer, look out for their Cherry shade, £4.50 (www.barrym.com). L’Oreal’s Shadow Minerals in gold, £8.99 is a great all-round neutral and if you’re keen to experiment with red lips, Rimmel’s Moisture Renew lipsticks, £5.49 should be your first port of call. Alternatively, Revlon’s new matte lipstick in Nude Attitude, £7.29 gives a soft, subtle hint of colour. (All Boots)

Lesson 6: Follow your nose
There’s nothing quite like finding a scent that suits you and claiming it as your own. There’s also nothing quite as frustrating as falling in love with someone else’s perfume, only to find it smells completely different on your skin. The trick to finding your failsafe fragrance – get scent savvy. Don’t take a whiff straight from the bottle, give the scent time to develop on your skin (perfume wasn’t designed for cardboard), try not to be swayed by fancy packaging or a celebrity name, and never, ever judge the scent on another person’s skin – if you do, it’s a big black mark on your beauty report.
‘The wonderful thing about perfume is that it is such an emotive purchase. Fragrance smells different on everyone, depending on their individual skin type and taste which is one of the reasons why there are no clear cut rules about what kind of fragrance suits what kind of person. A scent should evoke a special sentiment regardless of the colour of your skin or hair, or even your character. It’s even fair to say, that despite some fragrances being marketed towards men or women, fragrance itself is actually without gender. Most of the time we will choose fragrances that are similar to each other, but experimenting is not only exciting but can offer a whole new fragrance wardrobe that we would never have thought of.’ Georgina Blake, Head of Training, Kenneth Green Fragrances
‘Try to choose a fragrance blind. Enlist the help of a friend or consultant to spray fragrance onto your skin (never on a blotter as you need the warmth of skin to have a perfume properly develop) and not tell you what it is. This will make sure you’re not influenced by packaging or marketing. A scent that truly works on you is the one you’ve chosen with your heart, not your head.’ Christopher Yu, United Perfumes
Homework: If you know which fragrance family you favour – floral, fruity, spicy, aromatic or woody, it’ll make it easier to uncover the perfumes you prefer. For a timeless floral fragrance, Jean Paul Gaultier’s Classique, £43 (Department Stores Nationwide) never fails to impress, or keep your eyes peeled in June for Apothia’s latest launch – Pearl, £50 (Liberty) a fresh modern floral that’s deliciously smooth. Spice-wise, look out for Korres new Cardamon scent or try their new Passion Fruit fragrance for an uplifting citrusy scent - £38 each (www.beautyexpert.co.uk) they hit shelves this summer.

 

Tried & Tested: TRIED & TESTED: NIGHT MOISTURISERS
We’ve tested six overnight moisturisers that promise to get to work while you sleep.

BOBBI BROWN OVERNIGHT CREAM, £37.19 for 50ml (www.bobbibrown.co.uk)
What they say: This rich, restorative cream hydrates, de-stresses and helps repair skin's appearance while you sleep. Ideal for anyone looking for a technologically advanced repair product for night time use.
The Results: I loved the thick, creamy texture of this product. It instantly soothed my dry, tight skin. There was no greasiness – it sunk in impressively quickly, but left my skin feeling supple and looking instantly plumped. It has the light, subtle fragrance of lavender, which made it ideal for bedtime. I don’t usually bother using a night cream – I simply slather on my regular day cream before hitting the sack. Since using this cream, I’ve noticed a definite improvement in my skin. The moisture levels have balanced out and it feels silky soft. It’s pricey, but really works.
Best for: Dry skin

DECLÉOR YLANG YLANG NIGHT BALM, £28.50 for 15ml (www.decleor.co.uk)
What they say: This 100% natural, preservative free balm cleanses, purifies the complexion and helps to re-balance the skin. On waking-up, the skin looks cleaner, healthier and has a radiant glow.
The Results: I was quite nervous about using a balm, as I thought it would leave my face feeling quite greasy – I’m prone to breakouts, so try to avoid using heavy creams or oils. I followed the instructions on the box, warming a little of the balm in my cupped hand before applying to my face in light, sweeping strokes. The Ylang Ylang fragrance was gorgeous and reminded me of expensive spa facials. It felt very soothing as I applied it and melted almost instantly into the skin. It didn’t feel oily – in fact, the balm is very lightweight and felt like a lotion on my skin. It hydrated my skin, without weighing it down.
Best for: Light hydration

ELEMIS MAXIMUM REPLENISH NIGHT CREAM, £40 for 50ml (www.timetospa.co.uk)
What they say: This calming night cream with adaptive technology intelligently adjusts to your skin's individual needs. Providing targeted replenishment, whilst actively supporting the cell's natural regeneration process, this nurturing formulation delivers optimum results while skin's cells are at their most receptive.
The Results: I’ve used night creams in the past, but always found they are too thick and rich for my sensitive skin. I was relieved when I tested this product and discovered it was a light lotion. It had a subtle, but very pleasant scent that reminded me of baby lotion. It felt cooling as I applied it and left my skin feeling supple and soothed. I didn’t notice a huge difference in the condition of my skin after one night of wearing it, but after a few weeks I have seen a definite improvement in the texture and appearance. It feels smoother and softer, with a more even-tone.
Best for: Sensitive Skin

CLARINS MULTI-ACTIVE NIGHT CREAM, £39.15 for 50ml (http://uk.clarins.com)
What they say: This treatment contains active ingredients which are known to respond well to night time conditions and contain active elements which are more active at night. It works hard to prevent free radical activity.
The Results: My skin is mature and feels thin, fragile, and quite sensitive. I loved this night cream – it soothed and cooled my face as I applied it. It looks quite thick in the pot, but has a lightweight texture on application. It sinks very quickly into the skin, yet leaves a slight sheen on the surface. The first thing I noticed was how incredibly soft my skin felt. It felt less tight, far more comfortable, and I went to bed knowing that the cream was working hard to hydrate my skin. In the morning, it still felt moisturised. After a week of using it, my skin looks slightly smoother and plumper. I’m impressed.
Best for: Older skin

NUDE REPLENISHING NIGHT OIL, £42 for 15ml (www.nudeskincare.com)
What they say: This pure blend of omegas 3, 6, 7 and 9 nourishes and protects for silky, soft skin. Powerfully antioxidant cranberry and avellana defend against free radical attack whilst nigella and macadamia replenish and nourish.
The Results: I’ve fallen in love with this light, silky facial oil. It has the luxurious scent of vanilla oil and rose absolute and sinks almost instantly into the skin. My face had a lovely glow immediately after applying it, but didn’t feel at all greasy. I’d probably describe my skin as normal – it’s neither dry, nor oily. It responded really well to this product, leaving it feeling hydrated, soothed, and pampered. After using it for a week, I’ve noticed that my skin tone looks more even and it feels beautifully soft. I look forward to applying it each evening – it’s a real treat. It’s quite expensive, but a little oil goes a long way so this bottle would last a long time.
Best for: Pampering skin

COWSHED ROSE REPLENISHING NIGHT CREAM, £35 for 50ml (www.cowshedonline.com)
What they say: This richly textured, time-resisting cream softens and smoothes the skin. Made with rose absolute to encourage skin cell regeneration. Enriched with rose geranium essential oil and carrot seed oil to tone and hydrate the skin while you sleep. The deep floral aroma creates a sense of vitality and relaxed well-being.
The Results: The luxurious rose scent and thick, balm-like texture of this cream made applying it a real pleasure. My skin is very dry and I use a rich night cream every evening to keep it feeling supple and hydrated. After massaging it into my skin, it felt instantly softer and plumped with moisture. The high concentration of essential oils might make it unsuitable for more sensitive skins, but my complexion lapped it up! I’m most impressed by how soft and smoothed by skin feels – I’d highly recommend it.
Best for: Softening skin

 

Spa Review: THE LOWRY HOTEL AND ELEMIS SPA, MANCHESTER (03.04.09)
Location: The Lowry Hotel, 50 Dearmans Place, Chapel Wharf, Manchester M3 5LH
0161 827 4000. www.thelowryhotel.com
Facilities: The Lowry Hotel is sited on the banks of the River Irwell, right in the centre of Manchester. The city’s fabulous shops, including the first Harvey Nichols to be opened outside London, are just a short stroll over the iconic Trinity footbridge – if you can pull yourself away from the palatial lobby, that is. This is a hotel that wins awards - and quite rightly so. Step inside and you will be struck immediately by the stylish décor and abundant natural light. The main restaurant, the River Bar and Restaurant, sources produce from local suppliers and features an ever-changing and truly mouth-watering menu. The 164 rooms are comfortable, spacious and elegant. Feel in need of a little ‘me’ time? Make your way to the stunning Elemis Spa. With tempting products displayed behind the reception desk, separate ladies and men’s changing and relaxation rooms, saunas and showers, a gym, plus six treatment rooms and manicure stations, it is easy to see how it has become so popular with both hotel guests and regular day visitors.
Ambience: Step into the Elemis Spa and you’ll be transported a million miles away from the bustling hotel beyond. With dimmed lights, flickering candles, soothing music, and ultra-comfortable sofas, the ambience is serene and utterly relaxed. The staff are professional, warm, and always eager to help.
Treatments tested: Tri-Enzyme Resurfacing Facial, £65 for 55 mins.
After a discussion with my therapist, we decided that the Tri-Enzyme Resurfacing Facial would be most suitable for my skin. It was bliss. In the treatment room my face was cleansed and exfoliated, then given an application of three different serums. The first contained Basil and Geranium to raise skin temperature by increasing circulation. The second contained Lavender and Peppermint to soothe and cool. The third contained Juniper and Pine, and worked to fight the signs of ageing. Whilst the serums worked their magic, I was treated literally from toe-to-head with a foot cleanse, hand, arm, shoulder, neck and head massage. Afterwards, my skin felt wonderfully soft and smooth.
Sports and Fitness Massage, £70 for 60 mins.
While I was having the facial, my husband enjoyed a Sports and Fitness Massage. He picked the De-stress oil to be used during the treatment, plus a refreshing gel that contained Arnica to relieve and soothe particular areas tension. After the full-body, deep-tissue massage, the stress around his neck and shoulders had eased considerably and he felt incredibly relaxed. Afterwards, he retreated to the relaxation room, which provided a fine view of the river Irwell and a passing rowing eight.
The Lowry’s Desirable Spa Package costs from only £151 per person per night, based on two people sharing a twin/double room. The package includes overnight accommodation in a deluxe king size bedroom, breakfast in The River Restaurant or the comfort of your own room, one hour of treatment time, a two-course spa lunch, and complimentary use of the fitness suite, saunas and relaxation rooms. Visit www.thelowryhotel.com to make a booking.
** Fancy winning a Desirable Spa Package for two at The Lowry Hotel, plus nearly £500 of Elemis products? Click here to enter **

Blog: JO HANSFORD - THE UK’S LEADING HAIR COLOURIST – SHARES SOME OF HER SECRET BEAUTY ADDRESSES (03.04.09)
I started keeping my ‘little black book’ 25 years ago when my mother became ill with cancer and subsequently died. I realised that I needed names of specialists before the problem and not when it became apparent. I started to collect the names of all types of doctors and therapists in case I ever needed one. I have updated my book every five years as new people emerged. Being with clients daily I can glean all types of information from cosmetic surgeons to facialists – it’s worth having these beauty experts on speed-dial!
Eyebrows
Sophie Thorpe is a genius for permanent eyebrow tattooing. I completely overplucked mine years ago and have hardly any natural hairs left. However, she works her magic once a year and you wouldn’t know the difference.
To book an appointment: 020 7589 5899 www.sophiethorpe.co.uk
Facials
I would recommend Sarah Chapman – she offers bespoke Skinesis facials which are tailor made. Prices start from £125.
To book an appointment: 0207 589 9585, www.sarahchapman.net 106 Draycott Avenue, Chelsea, London, SW3 3AE
Hair
Sonia Severino at Jo Hansford cuts my hair and has done for 6 years, and any of my fabulous colourists colour my hair. If I have a busy day ahead, the Jo Hansford Breakfast Blow Dry (£35, 40 minutes, which includes a breakfast of toast and tea/coffee) sets me up… It’s got to be one of the cheapest treats in London and it’s the brainchild of our youngest stylist – Lucy – who at 19 is one of the only people I would trust to blow-dry my hair! I use my recently launched Colour Care Everyday Shampoo (£14) and Intensive Masque for Fine Hair (£25), which leaves my hair soft, nourished, shiny and pampered- it includes natural sustainable ingredient Castanha do Brasil which is proven to prolong the life of hair colour. I am sometimes prone to suffering from a flaky scalp and find that putting white vinegar on to my hair one hour before washing helps keep this at bay.
To book an appointment: 020 7495 7774 www.johansford.com
Colour Care available at Harvey Nichols stores from 23rd March or stockist details: 020 409 7020
Massage
I have a fabulous masseuse called Paul Thurgood who comes to my house every Monday at 7.30 AM. Paul performs a physio/sports massage to keep my neck and shoulders supple, which is very important when working in the salon with clients. Paul travels in the North West London area and can be contacted on 01525 852582.
Nails
I have a weekly manicure with Sohan Chong at Jo Hansford. In the Summer I use Bordeaux by Essie and in the Winter I go for Wicked (also by Essie).
Essie Nail Polishes are available at Debenhams online (www.debenhams.com) for £8.95
Sohan works Tuesdays and alternate Saturdays at Jo Hansford and appointments can made via the Jo Hansford salon (020 7495 7774).
Chiropodist
I visit Nigel Tewkesbury every 3 months to have my feet checked and toe nails trimmed. When I leave him I feel like I am walking on air!
To book an appointment: 0207 262 7388, 1 Sussex Gardens, W2 2SF (Tues, Wed, Thurs 8.30am – 4.30pm)
Recommended Cosmetic Surgeons Rajiv Grover (0207 486 4301, www.rajivgrover.co.uk) and Barry Jones (0207 935 1938, www.barrymjones.co.uk).
I see a lot of cosmetic procedures from working in the industry and these 2 men always produce fantastic results.
Acupuncture
Both myself and my daughter Joanna visit Daniel Tapsell every couple of months. He’s a registered specialist in Pure 5-Element Acupuncture. He is brilliant at reducing stress and rebalancing your body. My daughter used to suffer with panic attacks but has not had one for years since seeing Daniel.
To book an appointment: Call Daniel direct on 07966192042, Belgravia Surgery SW1W 9PY. The fee for the initial combined consultation including first full treatment is £85 with follow-up sessions at £55.
Dental Hygienist
I have been seeing Sammy (Samantha Webb) as my dental hygienist for a number of years – she maintains my dental health and keeps my teeth fresh and clean. I see her in London but she also works in Henley on Thames and is contactable on 07876 023641.
For further information or to book an appointment at Jo Hansford contact:
0207 495 7774 www.johansford.com

 

Breaking News: DIPTYQUE LAUNCHES L’ART DU SOIN BODY COLLECTION (03.04.09)
Diptyque fans are in for a treat this spring, as the luxe French brand has just launched a stunning new collection for the body - L’Art Soin. With five irresistible products to choose from, all dressed in Diptyque’s signature monochrome packaging, we predict this collection is going to be flying off shelves as quickly as they can be stocked.
The inspiration behind the collection is travel, which each of the five products inspired by destinations dotted around the Mediterranean Sea. The first product in the range, inspired by Aleppo in Syria, is the Creamy Body Wash for Shower & Bath (£26 for 200ml). With notes of aromatic bay laurel and olive flower to scent skin, plus lashings of extra virgin and organic olive oil to leave the skin satiny soft.
The journey continues with Fresh Lotion for the Body (£31 for 200ml), inspired by Alexandria in Egypt, which combines the moisturising properties of orange blossom and sweet almond oil. Closely followed by the more intensive alternative, Rich Butter for the Body (£48 for 200ml) inspired by Byzantium in Ancient Greece. The deep tub contains a thick, indulgent blend of rose floral water, organic honey, and argan oil.
The collection is completed by Luxurious Hand Balm (£22 for 50ml) to cocoon mitts in a velvety softness, inspired by Cordoba in Spain, and luxurious Precious Oils for Body and Bath (£40 for 125ml), inspired by Italy’s Florence – a medley of organic sweet almond and argan oil.
L’Art Soin is on sale now at all regular stockists and at Diptyque stores, 195 Westbourne Grove and 68 Marylebone High Street, London.

Feature: ACID BEAUTY (03.04.09)
No need to adjust your eyes! We’ve tracked down the most tempting acid-hued beauty buys, coming to counters near you this season.

BOLD LIPS
THE LOOK: This season is all about dominant features. Draw attention to your pout with a strong neon orange or pink– or for the braver amongst us, a bright blue or zingy yellow hue.
AS SEEN: Makeup Artists painted lips in neon pink at John Galliano, Gucci and Antonio Berardi for Spring/Summer 2009. Fashionista Chloe Sevigny is never spotted without her bright Reddish Orange pout, while Beth Ditto opts for a pillar-box red.
TOP TIP: Celebrity Makeup Artist, Daniella Novak for Barry M advises: ‘Neon makeup needs to stand out, so it’s important you cover the area with a base to make the colour look as bright as possible and last longer. After applying foundation, choose a matte-look lipstick or a lip-gloss that will give your pout colour and shine.”
THE PRODUCTS:
BARRY M Lip Paint in Vibrant Pink, £4.25 (www.barrym.com)
Rimmel Moisture Renew lipstick in Funtime Fuschia, £5.37 (www.rimmellondon.com)
Shu Uemura Rouge Unlimited lipstick in Yellow 30, £16.15 (020 7235 2375)
Jelly Pong Pong Lip sorbet in Papaya Suede, £8 (www.jellypongpong.com)

HAIR ACCESSORIES
THE LOOK: Not brave enough to introduce neon to your makeup bag? Add a sprinkle of acid to your locks with some neon bright hair accessories.
AS SEEN: Agyness Deyn, Daisy Lowe and Peaches Geldof have all been spotted brightening up their tresses with acid-bright headscarves and Alice bands.
TOP TIP: Bethany Swan, Makeup Artist in residence for Jelly Pong Pong, says: ‘Many people avoid neons because they don’t think it will suit them, but there is a shade for everyone. Skin tones that suit cooler colours can enjoy blues; greens and purples, for warmer skin tones opt for oranges through to fuchsias. Add a flash of colour with a hair extension or accessories in a shade that suits your colouring.”
THE PRODUCTS:
Claire’s Skinny Alice Bands, £2, each (www.claires.co.uk)
New Look Pink Plait Headband, £3 (www.newlook.co.uk)
Topshop Sequined Hair Band,, £5 (www.topshop.co.uk)

LINERS AND MASCARAS
THE LOOK: Apply layer upon layer of ultra-bright mascara – or frame eyes with a slick of neon liner.
AS SEEN: Divas Beyonce and Jennifer Lopez have often been seen sporting acid-hued mascaras – Blue for JLO and a slick of green on Beyonce.
TOP TIP: The Body Shop’s International Makeup Artist Chase Aston advises: “The colourful makeup trend has exploded back into fashion, but avoid wearing loose glitter around the eyes and cheeks at all costs… Instead, use shimmering or metallic hues, complimented with a pale, matte complexion. Blue mascara suits all skin tones, especially those with hazel or brown eyes and darker skin tones, as blue hues will make your peepers pop. Bold hues, need bold brows to balance the face, avoiding over plucking or pencil thin brows.”
Celebrity Makeup Artist Liz Pugh for Rimmel explains how to successfully frame the eyes with an acid shade: “To apply eyeliner, always wipe your pencil first to soften up the tip. Gently pull down the rim of the eye and draw along. Simple. If you can manage it, a line drawn on the inner top lid is great for that smoky eye look.”
THE PRODUCTS:
The Body Shop Define and Lengthen Mascara in Blue, £10 (www.thebodyshop.co.uk)
B Never Too Busy To Be Beautiful Mascara in Bothered Blue, Bracken Green, or Bunny Pink, £8.80 each (www.bnevertoobusytobebeautiful.com)
Rimmel Exaggerate Waterproof Eye Definer in Aqua or Pink, £2.93 each, (www.rimmellondon.com)
2True Eye Dazzlers in Green, Gold and Purple, £1.91 each (www.superdrug.co.uk)
Technic Glitter Eyeliner in gold, glitter and neon blue glitter, £1.49 each (www.lovelythemakeup.com)
W7 Sparkle Eyeliner in neon blue glitter, £4.95 (www.magicmakeup.co.uk)

BRIGHT NAILS
THE LOOK: Treat your talons to a neon fix. Take your pick from a tempting collection of acid-bright polishes – there’s a shade to suit everyone.
AS SEEN: Bright acid purple nails donned the Gucci catwalk for Spring/Summer 2009. Mary Kate Olsen recently sported short, manicured nails in a vivid red, whereas Rhianna opts for a blinding orange.
TOP TIP: Celebrity Makeup Artist Daniella Novak, for Barry M advises: “Use a range of contrasting shades to exaggerate your neon-inspired look for nails. Barry M Neon Nail Paints are perfect for adding a bright, flash of colour to talons. There are three shades to choose from green, yellow and pink and they even glow under UV lighting!”
THE PRODUCTS:
BARRY M Nail Paints in Neon Pink, Neon Yellow and Neon Green, £2.95 each (www.barrym.com)
GOSH nail colours, £4.90 each (www.superdrug.com)
ESSIE Neon Collection in Punchy Pink, Flirty Fuchsia, Funky Limelight and Perky Purple £8.95 each (www.nailsbymail.co.uk)
CIATE Paint Pots in Speed Dial neon orange and Skinny Jeans neon blue, £9 each (www.ciate.co.uk)

FLUORO BLUSHERS
THE LOOK: Sleek your cheeks with a sweep of fluorescent blusher or glimmer with a dash of body dust around the décolleté.
AS SEEN: Brightly defined cheeks are a favourite of soul singer Adele and retro-diva Sophie Ellis Bextor.
TOP TIP: Bethany Swan, Makeup Artist in residence for Jelly Pong Pong, says: “The key thing to remember with this look is not to let the colour overpower your face – you want to enhance your features not erase them. Introduce a single colour and concentrate on only one feature, in this case your cheeks.”
THE PRODUCTS:
New id Cosmetics, I- Blossom Cheek Stamp in Rose, £16 (www.newidcosmetics.com)
Bobbi Brown Blush in Peony, £15.66 (www.bobbibrown.co.uk)
Barry M Dazzle Dust in Hot Pink, £4.50 (www.barrym.com)
The Body Shop Hot Bights Blush 01, £8.30, (www.thebodyshop.co.uk)

EYE SHADOWS AND FALSE LASHES
THE LOOK: Enhance your eyes with a pair of fluoro falsies - or get creative with an acid-bright eye shadow to bring your peepers bang up to date.
AS SEEN: Bright eye shadows were huge on the Spring/Summer 2009 catwalk, with vibrant eyes created by the likes of Francois Nars for Marc Jacobs. Pop princess Rhianna loves Purple eyes. False lashes are huge this season, sported regularly by Rhianna, Adele, and Girls Aloud.
TOP TIP: Makeup Artist Liz Martins, who works with Girls Aloud, gives tips on applying false lashes: “When applying any kind of lash make sure the eyelid is powdered and not moist, and also make sure you curl your lashes before you start. Pick up the outer corner of the lash with tweezers and dip the end in the lash glue (I find it easy to put some glue on the back of my hand). Let the glue go tacky for a minute or so and then place as close to the lash line as possible. If you hold the skin on your eyelid up gently and look down into a mirror this is the easiest way.”
THE PRODUCTS:
Pop Beauty Lid Neon Shadow Kit, £15 (www.popbeauty.co.uk)
Eyelure Colour Lashes in Empathy Neon Green, Balance Neon Purple and Calm Neon Blue, £5.95 each (www.boots.com)
M.A.C Eye Shadow in Electric Eel, Chrome Yellow, and Orange, £9.79 each (www.maccosmetic.co.uk)