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August 2009

TRIED & TESTED: MICRODERMABRASION KITS (28.08.09)
Smooth, brighten, and soften your post-summer skin with a Micro-Dermabrasion kit. We’ve put six kits through their paces…

DR BRANDT MICRODERMABRASION IN A JAR, £54.81 for 60ml (www.spacenk.com)

What they say: It will visibly smooth and refine lines, help control acne prone skin and improve mild scarring.
The Results: This product smelt gorgeous when I applied it and felt very light on my skin, without any greasiness. I could be used morning or night, as it leaves no residue. I could feel the grains working hard as I massaged it in to my skin. A tiny amount covered my whole face so even though it’s pricey, the pot would last and last. This product is great if you are short of time – it’s quick and easy to apply and left my skin feeling smooth and soft. I have problem skin and this product calmed my skin after just one use. With continued use, I think this product could do wonders for my complexion.
Best for: Acne-prone skin.

 

OLE HENRIKSEN MICRO-MINI PEEL KIT, £92.95 (www.beautyexpert.co.uk)

What they say: This powerful treatment gives a youthful luminosity to your complexion and smoother, softer skin after just one treatment. Continuous use will see your skin tone even out, pores appear more refined, and fine lines and wrinkles fade.
The Results: This is quite a time-consuming product to apply. I spent roughly twenty minutes applying each layer then rinsing - I found it easier to apply the product with my fingers (rather than using the enclosed applicator). The instructions suggest the mask should be left on for twenty minutes but I washed it off after about five, as my skin felt a little sensitive and tingly. However, it was worth all the effort - my skin felt impressively smooth after using the product, with an even-toned, radiant appearance. Sadly, I don’t think the pots would last very long, as they are small, so it doesn’t represent great value for money.
Best for: Smoothing skin

 

OLAY REGENERIST MICRODERMABRASION AND MINI PEELING KIT, £24.99 (www.olay.co.uk)

What they say: Olay Regenerist Microdermabrasion and mini peel kit visually improves skin tone, texture and reduces the appearance of fine lines for dramatically younger-looking skin.
The Results: The derma crystals had a sticky and greasy texture, but I was able to apply them to my face like a mask. I have dry skin with a few too many wrinkles for my liking, and the product felt highly-moisturising and soothing as it sat on the skin. The peeling serum felt quite warm when I massaged it in to the crystals, which I found quite pleasant. The product had a delicious zingy scent, which lingered on my skin after I had washed it off. My skin looked radiant and glowy after using the kit, and felt more supple and balanced. It’s a great price and very easy to use. I’d definitely recommend this product to friends.
Best for: Anti-Ageing

 

MARY KAY TIMEWISE MICRODERMABRASION SET, £47 (www.marykay.co.uk)

What they say: Fight fine lines, refine pores and achieve beautifully smooth skin immediately with this simple, two-step set.
The Results: I absolutely love the packaging of this product - it comes in a shimmery pouch, complete with a pink bow, which will look great on my bathroom shelf. I like the fact that the product oil and fragrance free - I usually stick to simple products as I have quite sensitive skin, so this is great for me. The refining lotion was very grainy and exfoliated deeply, but felt gentle on my skin. The replenishing cream was lightweight and hydrated my skin without leaving any residue. My complexion felt very fresh and soft-to-the-touch afterwards. A little goes a long way, so this is a good investment.
Best for: Sensitive skin.

 

PHILOSOPHY, THE MICRODELIVERY PEEL, £56 (www.johnlewis.com/philosophy)

What they say: An effective peel you can treat yourself to at home. Delivers Vitamin C into the skin during the exfoliating process to brighten and rejuvenate.
The Results: This product has the fragrance of sweet oranges, which was very pleasant as I applied it. The Vitamin C coat had very fine grains, which felt very gentle on the skin. When I applied the gel on top, it felt like a thick mousse and had a warm sensation that was very relaxing. After a minute, my face felt very fresh and tingly. The mousse doesn’t dry so it was easy to wash off. My skin felt amazing afterwards and my friend said she thought my skin looked brighter. I’ll continue to use this twice a week as a treat after a long day.
Best for: Brightening skin

 

ORIGINS MODERN FRICTION, £28 (www.origins.co.uk)
What they say: Each application restores and revitalises sluggish cell turnover and de-clogs skin. Skin looks polished, smooth and luminous.
The Results: I’m very impressed with this product – it’s genuinely one of the best products I have ever used. It felt really gentle on my skin, but I could still feel the grains exfoliating away flaky and dry skin. It had a gorgeous thick, creamy texture when I first applied it, which became soft and foamy when I splashed some water onto my face. It was incredibly soothing and I liked its simplicity - you don’t have to worry about using different layers, which I simply wouldn’t have time for every week. My skin felt smooth and clean afterwards. After a few applications, my skin tone is much clearer.
Best for: Ease of use

Spa Review: JINGA SPA, MY HOTEL BRIGHTON (28.08.09)
Location: My Hotel Brighton, 7 Jubilee Street Brighton East Sussex BN1 1GE United Kingdom. 0127 390 0300, www.preferredboutique.com
Facilities: Located in the heart of the south coast’s hippest resort, the myhotel Brighton is perfect for those who are seeking a boutique break within easy reach of London. The Jinja Spa is the named after the Japanese Shinto word for shrine or holy place, and is designed to create an oasis of peace and equilibrium where you can go to heal and meditate. While the facilities may not be extensive, there is a wide choice of pampering treatments combining ancient healing techniques with the finest Aveda products. For the body, there is everything from a mosqueta rose healing body wrap to a ginger-salt and citrus body scrub, there is also foot reflexology and Indian head massages. All the essentials are catered for too, including eyelash tints, waxing, makeup sessions and Aveda signature facials. All the treatments are hosted in two relaxing, Japanese-inspired rooms where the smell of incense soon brings on a trance like state. The lack of a swimming pool may be a let down, but why not blow the cobwebs away with a stroll along Brighton’s world-famous seafront, pull up a deck chair on its pebble beach and watch the world go by – or take a bracing dip in the English Channel. If you’re not a beach bum then have no fear – the North and South Laines are a shopper’s delight; the maze of narrow streets offering everything from designer home-ware to antique jewellery.
Ambience: Trendy, trendy, trendy. With an emphasis on design – the minimalist rooms and spa have all had the Feng Shui treatment – you’re not going to find any decaying Victorian splendour here. Andy Thrasyvouloua, who alongside New York designer Karim Rashid is the brains behind the hotel, says it is a place “where Freddie Mercury might have met the Maharishi”, and that’s reflected in its stylish, ultra-modern, interior. The funky rooms – which have bathrooms bordering on the open plan - come complete with mod-cons, including i-pod stations, and ours had a splendid view from its floor-to-ceiling window. The cutting-edge theme is continued in the futuristic merkaba cocktail bar and the TABLE restaurant, which offers alfresco dining in the summer. But don’t be fooled into thinking this is a hotel without warmth – the welcoming staff make sure you still feel at home.
Treatments Tested: One hour full body massage (£30 per 30 minutes).
If, like me, you spend most of your day seated at a computer, you’ll know how quickly the knots can build up in your back and shoulders. This long-overdue massage certainly got to grips with them, with lots of attention to my problem areas. I chose from three delicious Aveda pure essential oils - Energising, Calming and Beautifying - and lay back on a comfortable towel-covered bed. The therapist combined a mixture of Western and Oriental massage techniques which softly soothed out my knots. Plenty of attention was paid to my arms and legs too, and my only complaint was that it didn’t last longer. After a hard week at work, this was the perfect Sunday afternoon wind down, and by the end I found myself drifting off to sleep. The reception for this peaceful spa is next to the hotel’s small library, so you can brush up on the best beauty treatments recommended by various glossies before you have yours.

Blog: LISA ELDRIDGE - MAKEUP ARTIST AND NO.7 CREATIVE DIRECTOR – SHARES HER TOP TIPS ON HOW TO KEEP MAKEUP LOOKING FRESH THROUGHOUT THE DAY… (28.08.09)
· The best way to get your makeup to stay on from dusk to dawn is by applying thin well-blended layers and choosing long lasting formulations.
· Apply just enough N°7 Protect & Perfect Day Cream, 50ml, £19.50 so that most sinks in and just a dewy layer is left on top. Allow it to sink in before applying foundation.
· Use a brush to apply your powder. This will help you avoid using too much and caking your skin. Use brushes to apply lip and eye make-up, this will help you blend the products better into the skin and give a more seamless and even application - which will also last longer.
· Summer skin loves to breathe and the No7 Stay Perfect range of light and long lasting foundations let your skin do just that. The new next generation N°7 Stay Perfect Foundation Compact, £14.00 uses technology to deliver long lasting coverage and translucency.
Best products to wear in the heat
· For the hottest summer days or even better days on the beach, use our fabulous new N°7 Extreme Length Waterproof Mascara, 7ml, £12.00. This mascara has staying power so is perfect to keep you looking glamorous all day long and keep black smudges at bay.
· Give your look longevity and a shock of colour with our waterproof No7 Metallic Eye Pencils, £7.50 these will even survive a dip in the pool.
· Finally for luscious lips that will stay put for up to 8 hours use our No7 Stay Perfect Lip Lacquer, 6ml, £10.25 - a long lasting lip stain sure to leave you with super shiny lips that stay put even in the heat.
The best way to touch up
· Always carry some cotton buds and No7 Quick Thinking 4 in 1 Wipes, £7.00 in case you have a make-up meltdown during the day.
· Clean around the eyes, as this is the area where makeup begins to look stale first. Re-do your concealer quickly and touch up your foundation. This can go straight on top of your minimal base, so do not worry about build up.
· Never underestimate the power of blusher too, as it's the quickest and most effective way of making you look instantly fresher, brighter and prettier. Try No7 Natural Blush Cheek Colour, £9.25, which comes in Honey, Soft Damson, Coral Flush and Candy Pink. If you are sallow or have yellow base toned skin opt for a perky slightly blue rose pink, if you are very pale and pinky toned go for a warm,
soft apricot shade. Dust lightly over the apples of the cheeks and blend well.

Breaking News: CHANEL LAUNCHES FRAGRANCE SPACE AT SELFRIDGES (28.08.09)
Fountain pens at the ready… There’s a new beauty destination in town and it deserves pride of place in every girl-about-town’s leather-bound address book. CHANEL has just launched a stylish Fragrance space at Selfridges, Oxford Street in London – a unique place for consumers to discover CHANEL’s extensive fragrance range, whilst being looked after by a team of specialised fragrance experts. If you want to immerse yourself in the world of CHANEL, you won’t be disappointed. The slick monochrome interior is enhanced by splashes of signature beige, gold, and tweed. The highlight of the space is the patented Olfactive Bar, developed by CHANEL Deputy Perfumer, Christopher Sheldrake. Utilising a new patented ceramic blotter system, the table houses the 48 fragrance concentrates that make up the entire range of CHANEL perfumery. Get ready to take yourself on a fragrance journey… Customers can browse through an illuminated manuscript, which showcases the history of CHANEL fragrance, from historical images of Coco Chanel to the house’s renowned master perfumers. And there’s much more planned for the future – the space will soon become the destination for special fragrance events, animations, and guest speakers. We don’t know about you, but we’re already clearing space in our diaries… The Fragrance space is open now, at Selfridges, Oxford Street, London

 

Feature: BEAUTY ICONS (28.08.09)
It’s time to clear some room on your dressing table… We present the stars of the beauty world - try them once and you’ll never look back.

SKINCARE
The Cleanser: Like many of the world’s best inventions, Eve Lom’s iconic, balm-style Cleanser, £76.34 for 200ml (www.evelom.com) is the result of a mistake. When the leading facialist accidently treated an oily-skinned customer with an oil-based product, going against traditional teachings, she feared her error would cost her job - but when the customer returned with improved skin, Eve realised that oil-based products could “teach” problem skin to correct itself. Eve Lom’s minimalist regime is based around effective cleansing and gentle exfoliation with a muslin cloth, as she explains, "Cleansing and exfoliation are the most important in any skincare regime and most people just don't do it regularly. This is a big mistake, because by regularly exfoliating dead skin cells will be removed, the skin can function to its optimum and the cell renewal process will be quicker which is the key to a fresh, young looking complexion. Regular cleansing maintains clean, unclogged pores and helps to balance the PH of the skin."
The Exfoliator: Some of the most effective products on shelves today are inspired by age-old beauty rituals. For centuries, Japanese women have rubbed rice bran on their faces to soften and smooth skin. Dermalogica’s Daily Microfoliant, £32.70 for 75g (0800 591 818) is a rice-based enzyme powder, which activates upon contact with water for a thorough exfoliation that is gentle enough for daily use, without irritation even to sensitive skin. Dannii Minogue is one of its many celebrity fans, “I always look after my skin...for a flawless skin texture, I’m addicted to Daily Microfoliant.”
The Moisturiser: Celebrating 10 years since the UK launch and arguably the ultimate in beauty luxury, Crème de la Mer Moisturising Cream, £90 for 30ml (0870 034 2566) has gained a devoted following due to its ability to leave skin soft, supple and with an improved appearance. A blend of sea kelp, vitamins, minerals and essential oils is painstakingly fermented and distilled into a unique, patented “Miracle Broth”, the potency of which is released when a special application technique is used- the cream must be warmed between fingertips to activate the ingredients before patting onto cleansed skin. For added skin benefits, follow with Crème de la Mer The SPF 30 UV Protecting Fluid (£50 for 40ml, as before) to guard against premature aging. And there’s no need to feel guilty about indulging as Crème de la Mer have partnered with Oceana, the leading ocean protection organisation, since 2005 to raise awareness and funds for the charity so you’re doing your bit to help the environment as well as your skin.
The Instant Pick-me-up: Had a late night? Look no further than Clarins Beauty Flash Balm, £25 for 50ml (http://uk.clarins.com). The bestselling product sells at a rate of approximately 21 tubes per minute globally, no mean feat but particularly impressive considering that it’s the one that Clarins never advertises. Renowned for its ability to instantly smooth and tighten skin and plump out fine lines, it can also be used as a mask applied in a thin layer to the entire face for an extra radiance boost.

MAKEUP
The Concealer: The innovative brush and results-driven formula of Yves Saint Laurent’s Touche Éclat, £23 (01444 255 700) has made it one of the world’s most recognised beauty essentials. Touche Éclat’s light-reflecting micro-particles illuminate and highlight the skin’s natural radiance to disguise signs of fatigue. It is regularly sited by women as the product they can’t live without and one sells every 20 seconds somewhere in the world.
The Mascara: With its distinctive green and bubblegum pink packaging, clump-free formula, and affordable price tag, Maybelline Great Lash Mascara’s, £4.99 (Boots Nationwide) appeal transcends age barriers, proving popular with teens and grandmothers alike. It is America’s Number One Selling mascara, with celebrity fans including Christy Turlington and Lisa Snowden queuing up to pledge their allegiance.
The Iconic Artist: Make-up artist and entrepreneur, Bobbi Brown is one of the beauty industry’s strongest advocates for embracing women’s natural beauty. Her mission is famously, “Makeup is a way for a woman to look and feel like herself, only prettier and more confident” so who better to comment on beauty icons? We spoke to Bobbi Brown:
The-Beauty-Pages.com: Bobbi, what makes a beauty product “iconic” in your opinion?
Bobbi Brown: Iconic products are timeless and classic. I grew up with drugstore brands like Chapstick, Coppertone and Ivory soap. These are brands that will never go out of style.
The-Beauty-Pages.com: What is your “can’t-live-without” beauty bestseller?
Bobbi Brown: Concealer!, Creamy Concealer Kit, £22.50 (www.bobbibrown.co.uk). It is truly my “desert-island cosmetic” and I rarely leave home without it. Yellow-based concealers are designed to lighten darkness under your eyes and make you look as if you’ve had eight hours sleep when you’ve only had five. Concealer is the first thing I apply after cleansing and moisturising. After covering up under-eye circles, you’ll often find that you don’t need as much foundation as you thought you did. Concealer can instantly brighten your face and lift your mood.
The-Beauty-Pages.com: What should readers look out for as beauty icons of tomorrow?
Bobbi Brown: In order for a product to become iconic, it needs to help consumers feel and look their very best. It is usually relatively simple and easy to apply and often connects with users on an emotional level. For example, when I first launched my Beach Fragrance, £34.50 for 50ml, many women told me that it smelled like their memories of childhood summers at the beach.

NAILS
The Fashionista’s Choice: Chanel Rouge Noir, £16 (0207 493 3836) has been credited by many as the shade that revived interest in nail lacquer. The shade was not developed over months in a laboratory but, in suitably fashionable style, created backstage at the Chanel Ready-to-wear autumn winter 1994 catwalk show when Creative Director of Make-up, Heidi Morawetz mixed black and red shades to find the desired effect. After its launch, there were queues outside Barney’s department store in New York and a mention on CNN news. Its iconic status was confirmed when it was worn by Uma Thurman in Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction. It remains Chanel’s bestselling product, unit by unit, ever.
The Vintage Discovery: One of Revlon’s most iconic shades, Cherries In The Snow, £6.16 (0800 085 2716) was launched, together with perfectly matching lipstick, in 1953. Accompanied by a glamorous advertising campaign featuring one of the world’s first supermodels, Dorian Leigh, the “madly voluptuous scarlet” shade captured the imagination of the 1950s housewife, offering a fantasy of opulence and escapism from everyday domesticity. With a long-awaited re-launch in April 2009, it is as relevant a shade today as it was over 50 years ago.
The Busy Girl’s Best Friend: Widely acknowledged as the world’s best top-coat, Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat, £8.95 (www.nailsbymail.co.uk) gives a professional, high-gloss finish to manicures and leaves nails touch-dry within seconds. The patented formula enables it to penetrate through the nail lacquer to the base coat forming a single solid coating over the nail plate for a durable finish that is guaranteed not to yellow.
The Hand Cream: With 2,500 tubes sold weekly in the UK, L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream, £15.65 for 150ml (www.loccitane.co.uk) is the Company’s bestselling product. Launched in 1994, the cream is enriched with 20% shea butter, sourced from a fair trade women’s cooperative in Burkina Faso, Africa, along with skin softening honey, sweet almond and coconut oil. Delicately scented with ylang ylang and jasmine essential oils, the easily absorbed cream leaves skin nourished and lightly fragranced.

HAIR
The Hair Straighteners: Step forward ghd. The revolutionary, ceramic plated irons have banished bad hair days forever. They are now one of the most popular hair tools and deservedly so. The reason for their success? Quite simply: they work. ghd’s make it easy to create salon-worthy styles at home, whether you desire sleek, straight locks, feminine curls or simply want to calm frizz and add shine. Look out for the new Pink Limited Edition Set for Breast Cancer Awareness, £135 (www.asos.com).
The Surf Spray: For surfer chick waves in a bottle, look no further than Bumble & Bumble Surf Spray, £17.50 for 4oz (www.spacenk.co.uk). Launched in 2000, it was the first salt-infused styling spray designed to create sexy, casual waves. It has inspired numerous imitations, but remains the original and the best, with fans including Liv Tyler. The spray has a light hold, adds body and lift to fine hair, and contains kelp and seaweed extracts for added moisture and control, making beachy waves achievable even from the heart of the city.
The Hairspray: Since its launch in 1958, L'Oreal Elnett, £2.49 for 75ml (Boots Nationwide) has been the global hairspray market leader for its unrivalled ability to give styles lasting hold. The groundbreaking formula meant a departure from traditional, stiff hairstyles and a trend towards movement and touchably soft locks. Taking its name from the French for "She" (elle) and "Neat" (nette), many women state this as the beauty product they most associate with watching their mothers and grandmothers getting ready and it looks set to continue for generations to come. Try newly launched Very Volume (as before), which will add volume to this season’s styles.

 

BODY
The Bath Product: It’s hard to remember a time before the “Bath Bomb” and yet LUSH, the creator of the original Bath Ballistics, from £1.35 (www.lush.co.uk) launched them just 15 years ago. Everything about Bath Ballistics is enjoyable - the pick ‘n’ mix style display in store, the bright colours, the fizzing sound when dropped into the water as the ingredients are released at the peak of their potency... Last year, they accounted for more than 10% of LUSH’s total global sales and with celebrity fans including Angelina Jolie, Gwyneth Paltrow and Gwen Stefani, it seems their appeal is here to stay.
The Body Product: Take a peek around any bathroom and there will undoubtedly be at least one product from The Body Shop. Founded in the ‘70s by the late Anita Roddick, the high street chain sells beauty with a conscience. One of the brand’s bestsellers is the range of Body Butters, £12.20 (www.thebodyshop.co.uk) - indulgently thick and creamy body moisturisers. Choose from scents that include Wild Cherry, Mango, Vitamin E, or Hemp, to name just a few. For a night out, it’s hard to beat Coconut Shimmer Body Butter for added radiance.
The Shoe: As founder of Bliss Spa and Soap & Glory Cosmetics, it seems like everything Marcia Kilgore touches turns to gold so it was no surprise when her latest launch, Fit Flops, from £36 (www.victoriahealth.com) sent consumers into a frenzy and spawned lengthy waiting lists. The shoes, which promise “a workout while you walk”, have been specially designed to promote balance and posture, absorb shock and tone legs. Since the successful launch of the original Walkstar design, the range has been extended to include winter, men’s, and fashion styles.

FRAGRANCE
The Unisex One: Regarded as Jo Malone’s signature scent, Lime, Basil and Mandarin Cologne, £32 for 30ml (www.jomalone.co.uk) has been described as a “modern classic”. The citrus scent with top notes of lime, mandarin and bergamot and base notes of basil and thyme appeals to men and women alike - so you might need to hide it from your boyfriend. The fresh cologne is ideally suited for fragrance combining or layering with products such as the brand’s rich Body Crème, £45 for 175ml, whilst those addicted to the scent won’t be able to resist the Home Candle, £38.
The Star Scent: When ‘60s icon and queen of cool, Jane Birkin wanted a new scent, she commissioned expert perfumer, Lyn Harris of Miller Harris to create a personalised, bespoke fragrance. They worked together over two years to develop the perfect scent, with Lyn listening to Jane’s passions and memories and carefully selecting complementary raw materials, as Lyn explains,
“When creating L’Air de Rien, I sought to capture all the complexities and intricacies of Jane’s life. Jane is a true icon so it only follows that her fragrance should be the same.”
As Lyn experimented and blended the fragrance, Jane sat across from her doodling a pattern of William Blake-style nymphs appearing from behind the signature Miller Harris flowers, the design which now adorns the bottle and packaging. The resulting fragrance, L’Air de Rien, £80 for 100ml, is an oriental blend with notes of amber, vanilla, oak moss and musk which is aptly sensual and designed to be worn as a thin veil over the skin. Following its popularity, look out for the complementary L’Air de Rien Body Cream, £49 for 175ml, launching this autumn.
The Rebel: The groundbreaking creation of Thierry Mugler’s Angel, £46.98 for 25ml (0207 307 6700) caused something of a stir when it was launched in 1992. As the first fragrance to reject traditional floral notes in favour of confectionary ingredients including chocolate, vanilla, caramel and honey, it never fails to evoke a reaction. In fact, it could be described as the Marmite of the perfume world as people either love it, finding the notes reminiscent of childhood, or hate it. Scent is arguably the most personal of beauty purchases and although Angel was launched quietly, with limited distribution, it gained popularity as the unique scent was discovered and women fell for its distinctive fragrance.
The Future Icon: Debbie Beaumont-Howell, Head of Beauty Buying at House of Fraser believes that the latest creation from Marc Jacobs, Lola Eau de Parfum, £45 for 50ml (www.houseoffraser.co.uk), is the one to watch, as she explains, “In 2009 we have seen brands going back to basics and doing what they do best. They are still continuing to introduce new products and are building on the key essence of the brand- whether skincare, colour or fragrance... High quality, innovative products, something that is completely unique to give the brand a point of difference and an edge in a constantly evolving market. Following the success of Daisy, this new fragrance (Marc Jacobs Lola) has a style all of its own and a fabulous striking bottle to ensure that it is unmistakably Lola.”

 

Tried & Tested: BODY SHIMMERS (21.08.09)
We all love a touch of shimmer, but which products create a subtle glow and which will have you gleaming like a glitter-ball? We’ve put six products through their paces.

 

URBAN DECAY MIDNIGHT COWBOY BODY SHIMMER LOTION, £16 (Boots, Debenhams, House of Fraser)
What they say: A lightweight moisturising lotion with just enough sparkle to make your skin irresistibly sexy. Paraben-free and enriched with all the natural goodness of avocado, Jojoba oil, aloe, chamomile and vitamin E, the milk and honey scent is soothing and sweet but soft enough not to clash with your favourite perfume.
The Results: I could smell the fragrance before I even took the lid off the lotion, but rather than being off-putting it was how I imagine summer would smell like if you could bottle it – warm, creamy and with a hint of suncream – although when I applied it, it smelt as though someone had added a sprig of fresh peppermint to the formula! Lovely and light, my skin absorbed the cream quickly and you could instantly see tiny flecks of gold appearing on my legs which looked great when the light caught them. I was surprised at how hydrated my skin felt afterwards and I would be happy swapping my normal body moisturiser for this supped-up version if the occasion called for some razzle-dazzle.
Best for: Thirsty skin

 

SISLEY PHYTO-TOUCH OR, £43 (www.sisley-cosmetics.com)
What they say: A nourishing dry oil, suitable for body, face and hair, this enlightens and soothes the skin whilst helping to combat any dryness. Different shades of pearl create a unique golden tone that complements every complexion and is perfect for enhancing your tan’s natural radiance.
The Results: I love the packaging on Sisley products so when I opened the multi-coloured box I was ecstatic to see what looked like a bottle of liquid gold waiting inside. To get the most out of the oil you have to shake it to wake it, but I was a little worried to see that the only way to extract the oil was via a tiny hole in the top. However, it was much a thicker consistency than I’d expected and I simply dabbed it onto the areas of my skin I wanted to illuminate. Thicker than a cream but in no way sticky or gloopy, it soaked into my skin within seconds. Beautifully soft to the touch, it created a gorgeous golden glimmer on my skin and the fragrance was divine. My only quibble would be the cost, as although a little does go a long way, it is a high price to pay for a splash of sparkle.
Best for: Investing in

 

BOBBI BROWN SHIMMER BRICK FOR BODY, £48.94 (www.bobbibrown.co.uk)
What they say: A lightweight, silky powder that gives a head-to-toe glow. The three glimmering bars of colour work in unison to create a healthy, sun-kissed sheen in a few simple brush strokes. An extension of the cult classic shimmer brick for the face, it suits all skin tones and types.
The Results: I’m a big fan of the regular-sized Bobbi Brown shimmer bricks, but I have to admit I was unsure how this pimped-up version of the powder would fare in comparison. I was pleasantly surprised. Applying the product with a brush meant I didn’t end up with sparkly hands that made me look like I’d been playing in glitter all day, and it meant I could layer the product until I was completely satisfied with the amount of shimmer and shine I’d created. My skin looked suitably twinkly post-application and remained that way for the entire evening. Although you can use the shimmer brick anywhere on your body it looks a little overkill if you use it on the face, and while you can apply the colours individually, I preferred them swirled together for a more even finish.
Best for: Quick application

 

MICHAEL KORS LEG SHINE – CLASSIC, £21.53 (0870 034 2566)
What they say: An instant fashion statement, Michael Kors Leg Shines are an effortless and easy way to instantly give legs a toned, catwalk look. The luxurious way to glow, skin will be left delicately fragranced and looking irresistible while the compact case makes it ideal for slipping into your handbag.
The Results: This looks like a stick of gold designer deodorant but it smells ten times better and is far more exciting than a regular roll-on. Infused with the original Michael scent, I felt confident ditching my Eau de Toilette in favour of this floral-fragranced luminous leg shine. Another non-messy application process, it was simply a case of glide and go, and I applied it in a similar motion to shaving my legs – from the ankle upwards. Completely streak-free, at first glance I was unaware of anything but the scent, but on closer inspection I could see a subtle sheen reflecting on my legs. Definitely more of a subdued shine, this would be great for weddings, and its secure lid and solid formula mean it’s perfect for taking on holiday too.
Best for: Grown-ups and holiday-goers

 

E.FUNKHOUSER: SHIMMERING BODY GLITTER, £19.26 for set of two, (01908 629400)
What they say: These miniature pots of shimmering glitter, when combined with body lotion and lathered on the skin, produce a beautiful all-over sheen. Great for high-octane occasions and to get skin glistening, just one application will help to accentuate and define sun-drenched skin.
The Results: I’d be lying if I said that a DIY dazzle didn’t terrify me at first, but after trying this mix of moisturiser and self-prescribed sparkle, I’m hooked. The key to this (after experimenting several times) is to apply the same amount of body moisturiser as normal, start to rub it in, but before it sinks into the skin completely, sprinkle on some of the shimmering body glitter and then massage the two together. Because the moisturiser dilutes the sparkle, it means you can really tailor the twinkle factor and rather than being left looking like I’d been dunked in a pool of glitter, it gave my skin a lovely iridescent sheen. Although I used the recommended Artistry AHA Body Refiner Moisturiser, I think the beauty of this is that you can continue to use your everyday body lotion with the glitters, but I would avoid body butters - they would be too thick and could suffocate the sparkle.
Best for: Creative types

 

PER UNA: SHIMMER DUSTING POWDER, £7.50 (www.marksandspencer.com)
What they say: A deluxe dusting powder full of shimmer particles to make your skin glimmer and gleam. Fragranced with fruity top notes and hints of violet, the silky soft powder puff will swathe skin in a pouf of pearlescent prettiness.
The Results: With a consistency and appearance not dissimilar to talcum powder, this had a more mattifying effect on the skin compared to some of the other shimmers, and rather than an all-over luminescence, it was the individual particles of sparkle that provided a low-key diamante dazzle – obvious only when they reflected in the light, but great if you don’t want to look too over the top. As promised, the fragrance was lovely and light, although I would have liked the velvety soft puff to have been a bit more glamorous. It didn’t look as luxurious as I’d hoped, and once it had been dipped in the loose powder, the strands looked as though they could quite easily become matted. Nevertheless, it was quick and easy to apply and brilliant value for money.
Best for: Last-minute ladies

Breaking News: BOBBI BROWN LAUNCHES ILLUMINATING BRONZE COLLECTION (21.08.09)
With summer in full swing you’d think that by now, all efforts that have gone into faking that golden glow for the past eleven months could be put on hold in favour of the real deal. But oh no, not in the UK where a glimmer of sun in August is as rare as winning the lottery. Luckily, makeup artist and miracle worker, Bobbi Brown has come to the rescue with another one of her covetable limited edition collections.
Comprising just four products, including an All Over Body bronzing Brush, each new creation works with your own skin tone to give it a healthy, natural-looking glow - think Kate Moss á la St Tropez. From the silky Shimmer Brick for Body to the pressed Illuminating Bronzing Powder, the best bit about these products is that they leave you in control of your glow, so you can choose whether you want your skin to look like milk or mahogany.
Perfect for layering or as an alternative to tinted moisturiser or foundation, the range also includes the All Over Bronzing Gel in the new shade, ‘Golden Sun’. Already a firm favourite with makeup artists and Bobbi Brown fans, this velvety gel-based bronzer even boasts its own SPF15, so if the sun does ever show its face, you’ll stay protected as well as looking picture-perfect.
The Bobbi Brown Illuminating Bronze Collection is on counter now. Prices start at £18.60 for the All Over Bronzing Gel SPF 15.

Blog: MAKEUP ARTIST SARAH JAGGER - ON THE RETURN OF THE LIP LINER (21.08.09)
After years of giving makeup a bad reputation there is one beauty product making resurgence on the catwalk this Autumn/ Winter and I’m almost too ashamed to admit how much I love it. Yes, lip liner is back and for anyone who missed it in the 90’s, beware… This is one cosmetic pleasure that is surprisingly addictive.
Remember when ‘Supermodel’ was a new buzz word and Linda, Kate and Naomi were fresh blood on the catwalk? I remember spending hours in front of the mirror trying to outline my lips to look like Karen Mulder’s- up to my 15 year old armpits in my mother’s brown lip pencils and beige lip sticks. It was a hard habit to give up - thank goodness the lip gloss trend came along to keep us all feeling properly plumped.
Well, sharpen your pencils and be inspired by the designers pioneering the trend this coming season. Vivienne Westwood’s show led the way with a cheeky homage to Pamela Anderson in her Baywatch days - all big hair, smoky eyes and pale mouths with upper lips lined well outside ‘natural’ territory. On a more serious note, Giorgio Armani and Yves Saint Laurent teamed their classically chic collections with red lipstick lined in a stronger, deeper red pencil....etching the mouth with a sharply defined cupids bow.
The strong lip line is not for everyone, but a well blended outline is a great way to create a fuller looking pout and stop lip colour from bleeding into fine lines around the mouth. Also, as we age, the natural line around the lip shrinks, so applying a lip pencil matched to your natural lip colour will replace the definition, giving a more youthful look.
For failsafe lip lining, make sure your pencil is freshly sharpened. Begin lining the mouth at the cupids bow, using small, feathery strokes to define the ‘M shape at the centre of the upper lip. Be careful not to make the cupids bow ‘dip’ too wide- it’s not flattering on anyone. Work along towards the corners and repeat with the bottom lip, starting at the centre again. Softly work over the strokes with a clean cotton bud to soften a harsh line and follow with lipstick or gloss.
Recently I’ve found myself lining the mouths of models on every shoot I work on. My favourite ‘90’s Supermodel ’ lip line is Hush by Nars (£14)- a light beige brown that is subtle enough to use with pale lip colours but strong enough to stand out. For a shade that matches most mouths, try Dervish by Mac (£10)and for teaming with strong red lipsticks, opt for a long lasting matt pencil like Estee Lauder’s Double Wear Lip Pencil In Red (£15).

Salon Review: ERROL DOUGLAS (21.08.09)
Location: 18 Motcomb Street, Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 8LB. 020 7235 0110 www.erroldouglas.com
The salon: Tucked away on the quiet streets of Belgravia Village, Errol Douglas’ signature salon is a world away from the hectic schedule he adheres to outside of his salon. And it shows. The chatty reception staff and friendly faces on arrival immediately signal that the atmosphere here is just as bright and breezy as the interior and you can practically feel the positive energy ricocheting off the walls. Cool, calming and care-free, the light white palette and feel-good vibe continues throughout the salon, where every last attention to detail has been thought out. From the piles of up-to-date magazines to the in-salon extras, this is somewhere where the customer’s experience always comes first. They’ve even been so thoughtful as to position all the cutting stations in such a way that you’ll always get a great all-round view of what’s going on behind you - something that’s imperative in this neck of the woods. A honey trap for the South Kensington crew, no-one wants to crane their neck taking in the sights of ladies that lunch - especially when they’re perched next to suited and booted gents and a lively smattering of ultra-cool clients.
But a trip to Errol Douglas isn’t just about satisfying your hunger for tittle-tattle – although if you are feeling peckish, it’s advisable to peruse the salon menu. Offering everything from fresh juice and tea to breakfast and light bites, it’s all served up by the salon waiter who comes complete with stripy apron. There’s even an in-house nail technician on hand in case you fancy a quick pedicure and polish while your barnet gets bouffed! Treats and trimmings aside, though, if you really want to experience living like a VIP, book a session with the man himself. Winner of countless awards and with an OBE to his name, if anyone knows what to do with a pair of scissors, its Errol. Genuine, laid-back and easy-going – despite dividing his time between London, LA and New York - this real-life stylist to the stars will go out of his way to make you feel, and look like an A-lister. And regardless of his back-to-back shows, shoots with the likes of Pamela Anderson and Kelly Rowland, and numerous press appearances, he still finds time to spend two days a week in the salon, interacting with his loyal fan-base...and winning new ones over. In short - a true superhero stylist.
Services: A cut and blow-dry with Errol costs £185. Prices for other stylists start at £60 (cut) and £80 (half-head highlights).

Feature: HEAD CANDY (21.08.09)
Discover your inner chameleon by exploring an ever-changing world of heavenly hair hues…

DIY heroes
With more advanced systems on the supermarket shelves, colouring your hair at home is now more popular than ever. These slick formulas provide a cost-effective way to keep your colour radiant in between salon appointments.
Try newly launched Perfect 10 from Nice ‘N Easy, £6.99 (www.clairol.com). The innovative three-step formula infuses colour twice as fast as a conventional home colourant. “If you think gorgeous hair is only for those who have the luxury of time for a daily styling routine, think again,” says Gary Richardson, ambassador for Clairol Perfect 10. “Perfect 10 will simultaneously deliver rich luscious colour and healthier looking hair in just 10 minutes.”
But it’s not just about ease and efficiency. For many people there are limits to what home hair colourants can offer. In response to this, hair experts have released exciting variants that push the boundaries of on-the-shelf products. Today these innovators can provide amazing multi-tonal colour contrasts that deliver depth and interest to the hair. For example L’Oreal’s Couleur Experte by Préférence, £12.99 (www.loreal.com) provides all-over colour, along with tailored highlights for incredible depth. Couleur Experte is available in ten multi-tonal shades, from brilliant blondes to mouth-watering browns.

Colour with a conscience
There’s no need to compromise our eco and ethical values when it comes to our beauty choices – and that includes our hair. Thanks to a number of expert pioneers we can use hair colourants without damaging the environment - or our precious locks!
One of the leaders of the pack is Karine Jackson (0207 836 0300; www.karinejackson.co.uk) who is famed for offering the Organic Colour Systems in her London-based salon. According to Karine, the formula contains the lowest possible percentage of PPDs (the ingredient said to cause the most allergic reactions), thereby significantly reducing the risk of allergic reaction. “Clients love the non-drip gel and the fact that the treatment nourishes their hair,” Karine says. “Organic Colour Systems does not cost any more than conventional hair colour. Because of its natural base, it closes the cuticle down when shampooing and applying conditioner giving it a natural feel and shine. Where natural ingredients cannot match the effectiveness of chemical alternatives, manufacturer Herb UK utilises precise minimum quantities of only the finest grade chemical additives.”
Having made a name for itself for connecting beauty, the environment and wellbeing, Aveda (0870 034 2979; www.aveda.co.uk) now offers a comprehensive range of hair colour care products called Color Conserve. David Adams, Aveda’s Global Technical Director says: “Color Conserve is Aveda's ultimate system to protect and preserve colour-treated hair. It offers protection against the causes of fading and delivers intensive repair with daily and weekly rituals." The range includes a selection of plant-based Shampoos, £4.40 (www.aveda.com) that restore healthy shades with organically grown ingredients such as red clover, which is high in nutrients.

Youthful vibrancy
Ever wished you could protect your hair colour, whilst also maintaining its youthful looks? There are now formulations that claim to do just that.
To support the ageing process and provide enduring colour protection, Clynol Salon Exclusive (01296 314100; www.clynol.co.uk) has launched a new colour, care and styling range called Collagen Boost and Age Expertise. The key ingredient is the Collagen Antioxidant Compound which is said to give hair an anti-aging boost. The range includes: Collagen Boost Vitalize Recharging Shampoo, Collagen Boost Reinforce Revitalizing Conditioner, Collagen Boost Fortify Strengthening Treatment, Collagen Boost Magnify Volumizing Mousse.
Matrix Biolage Rejuvatherapie Shampoo, £7.50 (www.hqhair.com) also blends anti-ageing power with gentle colour protection. Its botanically rich formula is a blend of camellia oil, lycopene and rice protein, which effectively cleanses and replenishes. Hair is left weightlessly soft, supple and radiant.

Sun and shade
Covering up isn’t just a sensible precaution for your skin. Overexpose your hair to the sun and it will be left dry, damaged and lacklustre.
Vas Karpetas, Creative Director of TOMMYGUNS (0207 287 0011; www.tommyguns.co.uk), says: “Whilst on the beach or by the pool, using a hair screen with UVA/UVB filters is a must. The new TOMMYGUNS Leave Me in Conditioner has built-in UV filters and will not only protect the hair, but will help you style it too! This is so important because the sun is around 13 times stronger than the strongest bleach colourists’ use on the hair. Always use protection!”
For a daily shield Davines (0207 663 8080; www.davines.com) has released the Glorifying Shimmering Shampoo, which contains a key ingredient called polyphenols in order to protect the hair from UV damage. Usually responsible for the taste and colour of wine, polyphenols are natural antioxidants found in plants and are useful in blocking and restraining free radicals. Simply massage the creamy formula into the hair and the delicate shampoo will help reduce colour loss and increase luminosity.

 

Faking it
Lily Allen wears them. So does Madonna. These ladies are changing their hair colour the easy way by accessorising their ultra-stylish wardrobes with wigs and hair-pieces. Today they aren’t the bulky, synthetic head furniture of the past. Nowadays they are made from natural human hair and applied with safe, non-damaging methods.
Proclaiming to be a ‘revolution in hair extensions’, Wonderful Hair (0208 527 6166; www.wonderfulhair.co.uk) will give you fuller or longer locks using 100% human hair that is expertly matched to your own natural colour. The difference here is the use of a patented cold fusion applicator, which is designed to reduce the risk of potential damage to the hair. This new system eliminates two harmful elements often associated with extensions: heat and glue.
If you don’t want to go the whole hog, Goldwell has introduced three new shades to its clip-in hair extension range (available in professional salons; www.goldwell.com) for a dramatic touch of colour. Our clients love the new Colormatch shades,” says Adam Kenny, Burlingtons International Artistic Director. “They are funky colours and you can create subtle and pretty effects. For example the Dusty Pink looks beautiful in blonde hair, while the Midnight Blue is stunning with dark brown or black hair. The Special Natural Blonde is so summery, it’s perfect for adding beach babe highlights."

Keeping up the colour
Once you’ve achieved the perfect colour it’s crucial to keep it alive and kicking. Steven Goldsworthy of Goldsworthy’s, Swindon and Cirencester, says: “Whether you colour your hair yourself or have it done in the salon you should protect your investment with aftercare products specifically for chemically treated hair, which tends to be more fragile and prone to dryness. There are plenty of cleansing, conditioning and styling products to choose from whatever your budget.”

According to the team at Paul Mitchell (0800 793 8790; www.paulmitchell.com) they’ve formulated a product that will ‘jump start your hair colour whilst helping to prevent colour fade’. Having colour categorised its new range dazzling blondes, for example, can benefit from Paul Mitchell Platinum Blonde Shampoo. This contains caring ingredients to help your hair keep its vibrancy for longer including sunflower extract, which also provides essential UV protection to protect the hair.
Meanwhile, Bumble and Bumble has pioneered ‘Hair Powder’, £27 (www.hqhair.com), which is based on a centuries-old technique that adds unique dimension to existing shades. To use, shake and apply the multi-purpose spray directly onto your roots and over the hair lengths to create instant fullness, while enhancing the colour. It also cleverly blends noticeable root growth. The powders are available in Black, Blondish, White or Red.

 

 

TRIED & TESTED - QUICK DRYING NAIL VARNISHES (14.08.09)

Getting ready in a flash? Reach for a pot of quick drying nail varnish. We’ve put six to the test.

RIMMEL 60 SECONDS, £3.00 for 8ml (www.asos.com)

What They Say: All it takes is 1 stroke, 1 coat, and 1 minute drying time. Get fantastic colour and shine in just 60 seconds!

The Results: I had big expectations for this nail polish and although I found the texture a little too thin and runny, I was generally quite impressed. The name promises that the polish will dry in 60 seconds, which sadly wasn’t the case, but it was still super-quick, drying in a couple of minutes, and only required two coats for a lovely, even colour. I was very happy with the colour – it stayed glossy and fresh-looking, with an impressive five days before it chipped. The price is great, too.

Best for: Budget buy

L’OREAL RESIST AND SHINE, £4.88 (www.boots.com)

What They Say: L’Oreal’s Resist and Shine UV Colour Protect polish New Resist has a unique Solar Shield technology, and is enriched with Mexoryl XL for fade-resistant and shock-proof colour. The colour continues to look vibrant and chip-free after several days.

The Results: The brush makes application easy - as I applied the polish, the brush splayed and coated my nails in one easy stroke. It dried quickly too, becoming touch-dry in just over one minute. I loved the Hot Coral shade - it’s bright but not garishly so, and is perfect for summer. It looks great on toes, so I’d recommend it for holidays away. It has a glossy, shiny finish. It chipped after a couple of days, so next time I will definitely paint over it with a top-coat to keep it looking perfect for longer.

Best For: Quick application

BOURJOIS SO LAQUE! ULTRA SHINE, £5.37 (www.boots.com)

What They Say: So Laque Ultra Shine, is the new revamped version of So Laque, enriched with twice the vinyl, and blended with highly reflecting resins, for intensely lacquered nails with maximum shine! It’s a range of pure, lacquered shades with no sparkles or shimmer, for smooth, radiant colour on nails, which hold for up to 7 days.

The Results: The finish of this nail varnish is very glossy and instantly gave my nails a sophisticated, grown-up look. It had a thick texture, which meant it went on very smoothly and didn’t drip onto my skin – a big bonus, as this has often happened in the past. It dried in about one and a half minutes - about the time that it took me to make a cup of tea! It was difficult to pick a favourite shade but I liked Bleu Violet – it’s a modern, stylish colour that I haven’t seen elsewhere this season. The coverage looked perfect for four days, before chipping slightly – great staying power.

Best For: Spectacular Shine

ESSIE NAIL POLISH, £8.95, & QUICK-E, £14.95 (www.nailsbymail.co.uk)

What They Say: Essie's wardrobe of colour embodies a classic elegance and is an interpretation of very personal interests. Essie pays close attention to the runways, timing her colour launches to coincide seamlessly with the fashion trends of the season. Quick-E accelerates the drying time of freshly polished nails.

The Results: I was impressed with this combination of nail varnish and quick-drying drops. I picked Essie’s Perky Purple and added two drops of Quick-E while the polish was still wet - it dried in less than 30 seconds! It had a matte finish, so I’d recommend using a top-coat if you prefer a glossier finish. The colour looked great after one coat, but two coats made the colour even brighter. I’d definitely buy this again. It lasted well – I painted my nails for a party, but they looked perfect for days afterwards. They aren’t cheap, but you are paying for quality.

Best For: A matte finish

NAILS INC. LTD EDITION POLISH, £15, & SPEED DRY TOP COAT DUO, £19.00 (www.nailsinc.com)

What They Say: The limited edition nail polishes are perfect for Summer - choose from hot pink to vibrant purple, sexy lime and gorgeous coral. Teamed with unique crown, taxi, London bus and phone box charms – these are the must have products of the season. Use with the Albert Bridge top-coat to speed dry, add a super high shine and help prevent chipping on any polish.

The Results: This nail polish needed two coats for a bright, even coverage – I didn’t mind that, as I’m used to applying two coats of polish. However, the top-coat is not as fast drying as I had anticipated - I touched my nails after a minute and smudged them slightly. It does give a lovely shiny finish though, as well as some extra resistance to chipping and flaking prematurely. The combination of products is pricey, but you have to pay for such vibrant colour.

Best For: Long-lasting colour

MAYBELLINE EXPRESS FINISH SHOCK CONTROL, £3.99 (BOOTS NATIONWIDE)

What They Say: Maybelline Express nail polish is wet to set in just 40 seconds! Its ultra-precise Control-flow™ brush, means that only 1 coat is necessary, and its chip-resistant and shock-control formula ensures nails stay smooth and sleek day after day.

The Results: Wow, this polish dries super-fast! I applied it liberally (as I knew I didn‘t have time to do two coats), just before I stepped out the door to go to work. It took only 40 seconds to dry, which I was amazed by – I was convinced that I’d have to protect my nails on the train-ride to work, but there was no need. When it started to chip off at the end of day two, I didn’t even care – I knew it would take me seconds to apply another coat. It probably isn’t the best option if you like your nails to stay chip-free for a week, but it’s a brilliant quick fix. I’m buying one in every colour!

Best For: A Quick Fix.

 

Treatment Review: MALIKA SIGNATURE FACIAL (14.08.09)
What it promises: Perfectly-cleansed, baby-soft skin using only natural ingredients. Famed for their eyebrow threading services, this signature facial is exclusive to the Malika Westfield salon. Conjured up by owners Ritu Patel and Sejal Bhudia, each facial is unique to your individual skin type and promises to be a truly bespoke beautifying experience.
What happens: As with most spa services, on arrival at Malika, I was asked to fill in a form detailing my medical history, skin type and any skin concerns or worries I might have. However, there weren’t any therapists hovering over me, as immediately after my initial meet and greet, I was left to my own devices for a while. That’s not to say I didn’t spy therapists scuttling in and out of a back room, but it’s much more intriguing watching my peers getting plucked and primed beside me anyway. Once the secret mission had ended, I was shown to Malika’s mini treatment room and it was here that I discovered exactly what had been taking place…
Based on ayurvedic practices and principles, it was revealed that the therapist had immediately diagnosed my skin type when I stepped foot in the salon. What then ensued was the surreptitious preparation of the selected herbs and fruits needed for my facial - and it was this that accounted for the time taken between my arrival and treatment commencing. The ingredients can vary from mashed banana to chunks of papaya to avocado and honey pastes.
Combining a mix of masks and cleansing rituals, each course of the treatment smelt divine and had me constantly guessing what was being pasted onto my face just by scent and texture alone. It was completely unlike any treatment I have experienced elsewhere, although I still got treated to the same elements of a regular facial (cleanse, exfoliate, mask, face massage) - it came as no surprise that this facial was listed as the most natural in-salon service on offer. It might also go some way in explaining why all of the BBC bods who are based down the road at the Shepherd’s Bush studios are always in and out of Malika’s doors!
Results: The fruitiest facial I’ve ever had! I skipped out of Malika feeling rather virtuous, knowing that my skin hadn’t had to endure any nasties. As promised, my features felt lovely and smooth and I definitely noticed a plumper effect around my cheeks and forehead, which I was told was the fruit acids working their magic. My only qualm was the treatment room itself... It was incredibly small and cramped. My feet were touching the wall for the entire time and whilst I was left on my own for my face mask to set, I could feel small lumps of soggy banana running down the side of my face and into my hair as there was no headband used to hold it back. However it’s obvious from the start that this treatment is raw by nature, raw by name so I wasn’t going to let my barnet-come-fruit-bowl get in the way of an otherwise glorious therapy (tie your hair back if you want to leave looking presentable). Either way – and I’m not sure if it was because I didn’t want my ‘natural’ halo to slip – I felt that the results lasted longer than other facials I’ve had, plus it made a great talking point with fellow facial fans.
Price: £80 for 75 minutes
Location: Westfield London – Ground Floor, Ariel Way, London, W12 7GG. 020 8762 9752. www.malika.co.uk

 

Breaking News: DR RAVI JAIN – MEDICAL DIRECTOR OF RIVERBANKS CLINIC – BLOGS ABOUT ADULT ACNE (14.08.09)
Acne generally affects people during adolescence but also many adults too. Whilst the acne is unsightly, it is the after-effects of scarring that cause the greatest distress and unhappiness. But what causes acne and how can the after-effects be successfully treated?
Acne Stage 1: Hormones
Most people’s problems with spots and acne starts as soon as puberty begins. During puberty, the body starts to produce a type of hormone called androgens. Androgens cause the sebaceous, or fatty glands, to swell, which is a natural part of human physical development. However, sometimes these glands become over-stimulated and an individual suffers from an attack of acne.
Acne Stage 2: Sebum
The pesky sebaceous glands are stimulated (by hormones) and produce fatty secretions known as sebum. As the sebum travels towards the skin surface, it becomes clogged with bacteria and dead cells. This is a completely natural process, but all the extra sebum increases the clogging and causes eruptions at the surface known as acne.
Acne Stage 3: Skin Shedding
During puberty, almost everyone has overactive sebaceous glands. However, for some people, the over-stimulation causes skin cells around the hair follicles to be shed at a faster rate. When the dead cells become mixed with all the extra sebum, they form a blockage in the follicle that prevents the skin from completing its natural recycling process.
Acne Stage 4: Bacteria
Within the skin, there is a naturally occurring bacterium called Propionibacterium Acnes. We all have it and its part of our skin’s own regeneration process. However, when the skin around the follicle becomes blocked by all of the dead skin cells, and the sebum around the follicle, then the bacterium swiftly reproduces, creating inflammation in the skin.
Acne Stage 5: Inflammation
Once the body is alerted to the presence of all the additional bacteria, it responds with a process called chemotaxis, commonly known as inflammation. The inflammatory response is why spots are swollen, red and cause you pain.
How Can I Treat Its After-Effects?
Thankfully, there is a range of treatments to combat the after-effects of acne. Procedures depend upon the type and severity of your acne and each person’s treatment is individual.
SmartXide – Laser Skin Resurfacing
SmartXide is considered to be the most effective treatment for acne scarring. SmartXide uses a resurfacing laser that penetrates the skin beneath the scar and reshapes the skin surface whilst stimulating collagen production. When this treatment is combined with a skin care regimen, and Omnilux, phototherapeutic exposure, the results are even more impressive.
Sculptra
Another extremely effective treatment for acne scars is called Sculptra. This is injected into the skin beneath the scars and uses specialised techniques to stimulate the growth of new collagen in the skin. It takes about three months for the treatment to work thoroughly, but it lasts for up to two years and it significantly reduces the appearance of acne scars.
The Right Combination
By using the right combination of skin peels, phototherapy, microdermabrasion and laser resurfacing, it is also possible that the appearance of acne scars can be drastically reduced.
If you wish to reduce the appearance of unwanted acne scars, you can find more information on acne treatments by visiting Riverbanks Clinic (http://www.riverbanksclinic.co.uk/acne-scars.aspx) for further details.
Dr Jain is Medical Director at Riverbanks Clinic, a double award-winning cosmetic medical practice based in Harpenden, Hertfordshire, UK, where he provides a number of treatments including Botox, fillers, facial recontouring and body recontouring. Dr Jain's Clinic is renowned for its excellence and won ‘Best New Clinic' and ‘Best Business Development' in the 2009 Aesthetic Medicine Awards.
Dr Ravi Jain qualified from the Royal London Hospital in 1995 and has since held posts at The Royal London, St. Bartholomew's and St. Mary's Hospitals. Early in his career he trained in gynaecological laparoscopic surgery before training as a GP. He now specialises exclusively in cosmetic dermatology and minor surgery.

 

Breaking News: BENEFIT LAUNCHES CRESCENT ROW FRAGRANCES (14.08.09)
There’s a new sister act on the Benefit block, and rather than the creators – Jean and Jane Ford – it’s the second generation of girls, Maggie and Anne (Jean’s daughters) who are making a splash on the beauty scene, thanks to their delightful new trio of fragrances.
Wowed by a trip the girls took to Bath a few years ago, the siblings were won over by the city’s signature street, Royal Crescent, and had the urge to create a perfume that had personality, panache, and as with all Benefit products - oh so pretty packaging. But Bath left them brimming with inspiration and one fragrance soon became three - enter the Crescent Row collection.
Designed around three imaginary leading ladies who live side by side on the city’s most fashionable street, the fragrances are packaged in miniature gold cocktail shakers and housed in individual rooms. Decked out with a fitted front door, antique artefacts and tell-tale signs of who would reside in such decadent dwellings, the boxes match the bouquets perfectly. ‘Laugh with Lee Lee’, is a flirty floral wrapped up in woody overtones with a citrus twist; ‘Something about Sofia’, is a bright and bold oriental floral accentuated by a dash of mango, lily and vanilla bean; while ‘My Place or Yours Gina’, is a dark and seductive woody oriental oozing pink pepper, wild raspberry and a punch of patchouli.
As gorgeous on your dressing table as they are on your skin, layer all three scents together, or pick one to complement your personality type.
Benefit’s Crescent Row fragrances cost £29.50 each and are on counters nationwide this August.

 

Feature: BACK TO BASICS (14.08.09)

Everybody will be glad to see the back of you this summer, with our ultimate buffing and beautifying guide.

The Backcial –
Fast becoming the summer beauty staple, a good backcial should include all the intensive elements of a really good facial.

The Wacky Backy treatment at Beauty Works West brilliantly fuses luxury pampering with the latest technology. Using Ling skincare, the skin on your back gets a really thorough cleanse with soothing oils and steam to open the pores, followed by exfoliation, extraction – ouch – as well as an oxygen plasma mask and ultra-sound therapy, which stimulates the circulation and speeds up the healing process. It is finished off by a tone and moisturise, and is all done lying on a delicious bed of heated towels. The skin is left feeling plump, smooth and oh so relaxed. (55 minutes, £70, www.beautyworkswest.com)

Tone out
If you want to give your back a more intensive makeover, IPL or Intense Pulsed Light therapy, is a great way to even out skin tone and remove sun-damage, hyper-pigmentation, rosacea and thread-veins.Beyond Spa at Harvey Nichols offers an excellent package in the luxury of their beautiful salon. Flashes of intense light – it feels like little more than a pin prick – are dotted systematically across the skin, and the treatment works by warming the cells and the deeper layers of collagen, to stimulate repair and improve the skin's condition. You cannot wear fake tan for up to two weeks before the treatment, or go in the sun for several months after, so perhaps best to try over the winter months, but it is brilliant if you want a radical overhaul to the tone and texture of your back. (£300 per treatment, www.beyondmedispa.co.uk)

Scrub-a-dub-dub
If you want to put your best back forward, the most simple and cost-effective solution is a little at-home de-scaling. You can achieve instant softness with just a few simple tools.

A body brush is the best way to regenerate, stimulate and slough-away dead cells. Choose a brush with an extended handle for all those hard to reach areas. Bliss spin-off, Soap and Glory, has the perfect back brush, £9.79 (www.soapandglorycosmetics.com).

Then find a medicated body wash to help cut-down on all those blemishes. Elemis’ Wild Lavender Shower is a milk-based gel that deals with bumpy backs beautifully. Filled with healing extracts, it minimises the build-up of sweat and helps to replenish and balance the skin, £17 (www.timetospa.co.uk).

Finally, it is essential to invest in a really good exfoliator with fine particles so as not to scratch or aggravate the delicate back area. La Prairie’s Cellular Microdermabrasion Cream is intensive but gentle. Containing natural diamonds, fresh water pearls and quartz crystal to stimulate the circulation, just one session results in silky soft and translucent skin, £160 (www.houseoffraser.co.uk). Alternatively, if you suffer from dry skin, Blinc’s Resurf.a.stic also offers excellent exfoliation – it contains diamond-shaped crystals in a handy stick – but also hydrates at the same time, £49 (www.harveynichols.com).

Softly does it
Once rid of those old tired layers, it is time to rehydrate. Drenching your skin in moisture is key and one trick is to apply your body cream while skin is still wet.

There are a whole host of lotions out there that will do the hard work for you - the ultimate being M Lab’s Body Treatment Cream which boasts, “unprecedented levels of clinically active ingredients”. It is basically nothing short of a miracle in a jar. It contains antioxidants to reduce free radicals, and hydration-boosting ingredients to promote collagen, elastin and achieve truly long-lasting hydration. It doesn’t come cheap though at £165 per pot. (www.harrods.com).

At the more reasonable end of the price scale is Natura Bisse’s Oxygen Body Cream, which is also super-hydrating. It works by releasing oxygen into the skin to help the development of healthy skin cells as well as infusing the area with living water, a blue-green algae that regenerates and replenishes, £60 (www.spacenk.com).

Finally, for the more wholesome beauty-buffs, Cowshed’s Juniper Berry Detoxifying body cream does all the hard stuff like fighting free radicals but with more natural ingredients including juniper berry essential oils, grapefruit and avocado oil, all of which result in a wonderfully healthy glow, £35 (www.harveynichols.com)

Bronzed and beautiful
When it comes to fake tan, backs are the trickiest to reach. You need to lay the perfect foundations by preparing the skin 24-hours before hand and choose a spray or mousse which is much easier to apply than a traditional cream - latex gloves are a good idea too if you don’t want stained hands.

St. Tropez’ new Bronzing spray features a 360-degree nozzle, as well as a super-fine mist, to ensure a flawless application. There is no need to rub it in, and it features an innovative AromaGuard fragrance technology to reduce that soggy biscuit smell, £15 (Debenhams Nationwide). James Read, tanning expert for St Tropez says: “To tan your back, spray over your shoulders and work from side to side to ensure the whole area is covered. Be careful to cover your feet as the falling mist will make them ultra-bronzed, and wait at least one minute before getting dressed. Alternatively get your partner to do it!”

The final touch
With your back now looking so peachy perfect it seems such a shame to cover it up. Radiant skin is after all the ultimate accessory, so choose a beautiful backless dress and plenty of shine and sparkle to finish.
There are all sorts of body sheens available but the best have a subtle sparkle that merely enhances your glow. Guerlain’s Terracotta Huile du Voyager is an illuminating and nourishing dry oil that gives a hint of shimmer, it is absorbed instantly and prolongs your tan. Containing glittering flecks of mother of pearl - it smells delicious too, £33 (01932 233 887).
Alternatively if you prefer a velvety finish, Benefit’s Bathina Body So Fine balm is ideal for giving even the palest skin an iridescent finish, not to mention a light flirty scent £22.50 (www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk).

 

TRIED & TESTED – BRONZING PALETTES (07.08.09)

Get your hands on a bronzing palette this summer and you’ll be blessed with radiant, sun-kissed, even-toned skin. We’ve tested six of the best.

YSL POUDRE DE SOLEIL BRONZING POWDER, £28 (Yves Saint Laurent Counters Nationwide).

What they say: This new bronzer gives a subtle enhancing tan, totally natural and adaptable. Ampli light+, a complex of new generation radiance boosting pigments, captures ambient light to create a smoothing effect.

The Results: When I first read the description of this product I was pretty dubious about the ‘Ampli light+’ factor, but after just one use I was a believer! The smooth powder made my skin appear to glow with light. It felt luxurious to apply and immediately gave my complexion a smooth even-toned appearance – even managing to disguise a few blemishes. The SPF factor is a big plus point for me, as I like to know that my skin is protected. It didn’t dry my skin out at all and I only needed to reapply once before a night out. I’ll definitely be recommending it to friends.

Best for: A smooth, even finish

ESTEE LAUDER AMBER RICH DUE BRONZER, £25.00 (www.esteelauder.co.uk)

What they say: Artfully combining naturally warm bronzed skin with vivid accents in new, sun-kissed colours of coral and rose. The Bronze Goddess collection helps you create a look for summer that is seductive, sultry and purely divine.

The Results: I loved this product. The cheerful orange packaging immediately reminded me of summer. The bronzer has two tones - a light rose colour and a darker bronze, along with a great brush that was perfect for precision application. I combined the colours together and they left my skin looking sun- kissed in a really natural way – there wasn’t a hint of orange. It’s so lightweight and sheer that I felt like I wasn’t wearing makeup, which is just how I like it. It had great staying power - this is the perfect bronzer for long summer nights.

Best for: A lightweight look

GIVENCHY PRISMISSIME MAT & GLOW, £30.82 (01932 233824)

What they say: Two textures – matte tones for a natural complexion and glowing tones for a luminous look. The glowing texture lets you highlight key areas of the face. The matte texture evens out the complexion and delicately (scents) fragrances the skin with our new Radiant Blossom scent.

The Results: The black and gold packaging of this product looked very stylish and classic, so I couldn’t wait to try the product. Inside, there are six matte squares surrounding three glowing, shiny squares in a variety of different tones. For my cheekbones I used a thick brush so I could make sure I had equally blended (of) all the colours. The colour lasted all-day and gave my skin a lovely radiance. I used smaller brushes to select individual tones for use on my eyes or brow-bone, making this a great multi-tasker. The best thing about this brilliant compact though is the smell. It’s delicate enough not to be overpowering but stays with you all-day – delicious!

Best for: Multi-tasking

CLINIQUE ALMOST BRONZER SPF15, £21.50 (www.clinique.co.uk)

What they say: With a light shade of bronze and a deeper shade pressed side by side. The powder bronzer has vitamin E to help provide antioxidant protection against daily environmental damage and has an SPF15 to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. There’s also a 100% pony hair anti-bacterial brush.

The Results: I’m very pale-skinned and tend to only use a little rose-coloured blush on my cheekbones, so was a bit daunted when I was asked to test a bronzer. However, the great thing about this product is that you can choose how dark you want to go. I started by using the lighter shade of bronze, and as I got more confident, I gradually started to mix the light and dark shades to make an even colour. The SPF factor is great and I think the Vitamin E seemed to condition and soften my skin. People have complimented me on my new “healthy glow” – it’s become a makeup-bag essential.

Best for: Fair skin

DIOR BRONZE MATTE SUNSHINE SPF20, £28.00 (www.dior.co.uk)

What they say: This new formula concentrates mineral pigments that are gentle to your skin and ensure a matte, natural and perfectly uniform tan. Biospheres help absorb excess oil leaving your skin smoothed out and even all day long. It also contains a hydro-regulating agent that prevents skin dryness and protective shield against UVA and UVB rays. It’s also water resistant which ensures defence against heat and humidity.

The Results: I’m prone to shiny skin and tend to avoid bronzers, as the shimmer makes my face look greasier. However, this compact was a breath of fresh air. The mineral texture meant it was easy to apply and the matte colours instantly took the edge off my shine. After just one application I stayed shine-free for the whole day at work – something no other product has ever given me. I even took it on holiday with me and it stayed put, even on the hottest days. I’m really impressed.

Best for: Shiny skin

BOBBI BROWN SHIMMER BRICK, £48.94 (www.bobbibrown.co.uk)

What they say: Create head-to-toe glamour with this shimmer body brick. Lightweight, silky powder can be used on arms, legs, décolleté or anywhere you want to glow. The deluxe oversized compact features three shimmering bars of colour that all compliment each other to give you the perfect sun kissed glow.

The Results: I adore this bronzer. Not only does it look super stylish on my dressing table, it’s also light and compact enough for travel. The light pink and brown tones really complemented my dark skin tone and made my cheekbones look more chiselled than a super model! I also used the shimmer brick on my neck and chest to give me a shimmery glow on a night out. The iridescent shine stayed in place all night and all my friends commented on my fresh-faced look. It’s pricy but definitely worth it - I’d highly recommend it.

Best for: A luxury buy

 

Breaking News: SUPERDRUG STOCKS THEIR FIRST ORGANIC RANGE (07.08.09)
OK, so we all know organic products are nothing new, but did you know that until now, Superdrug have refused to stock them, favouring more budget brands instead. That is until they were introduced to Purity – a non-poncy, price-friendly collection of organic goodies.
Based on the premise that less is more, the entire range comprises of just seven simple skincare products, including a refreshing facial wash, creamy cleansing lotion, gentle facial exfoliator, anti-aging serum and mask, and three facial moisturisers – divided into day, night and anti-aging. All made from an organic cocktail of three core ingredients – Aloe Vera, Sweet Almond Oil and Coconut Oil – other no-nasty extras include beeswax, avocado, rose, oat and cranberries, which means that even those with the most sensitive skin will be able to indulge.
Add to that the range’s uber-credible Ecocert certificate, fully recyclable packaging and a price that never goes above £8.99 and you’ll soon realise why Superdrug have gone giddy over the products.
Good for your skin and your bank balance, Purity Organic Skincare products are now available at Superdrug stores nationwide. Prices start at £4.99

 

Blog: SANDRA HARTE – FOUNDER OF TOMMY GUNS HAIRCARE – GIVES AN EXCLUSIVE INSIGHT INTO THE INSPIRATION BEHIND THE BRAND (07.08.09)

After many years of working for various beauty and hair care brands, such as John Frieda, it was only natural to want to break away and create a range of hair products that people could really rely on to work and solve their haircare problems. In 2006 my partners and I did just that, creating an affordable, nature inspired and salon performance range in conjunction with TOMMYGUNS - the cool Soho and Shoreditch salons - aptly named TOMMYGUNS HAIRCARE.

The most important thing for me was to create a range that would tackle everyday hair concerns head on. Most women spend huge amounts of money on searching for that miracle product that guarantees to deliver but instead disappoints. Most of us have various shampoos, conditioners, and styling products gathering dust in cupboards after promising to be ‘the one’ but never quite living up to the hype. We wanted to change that.

We knew that we wanted a cutting edge, highly experienced salon to support the brand, so we approached TOMMYGUNS. They have three salons in London; one in Old Street and two in Soho and have a fantastic reputation with session stylists, celebrities and everyday folk. They represented everything that we wanted for our brand - experience and cool, effortless style, so a collaboration was the perfect choice.

TOMMYGUNS was born and over the past three years the range has grown rapidly, incorporating products for every hair type and dilemma. We have worked hard to find unusual natural ingredients that help to revive and rejuvenate hair. For example, Marshmallow in our Fig and Plum conditioner contains minerals and a valuable Vitamin B complex, which helps to calm frizz, enhances elasticity and repairs damage. It smells absolutely divine too! We like to think of our products as ‘hair heroes’ coming to the rescue to calm, control and style hair with ease.
Our three new styling products were incredibly exciting to develop. They are the Leave Me In Conditioner, which doubles up as a styling crème and includes UV protectors to shield hair from the ravages of the sun, a Colour Save Masque, which will boost colour and nourish hair deep down, and finally a Clever Curls and Waves Texture Spray which will help to create those Giselle-style locks!

TOMMYGUNS salon & nature inspired hair care aims to keep your hair protected from the weather that threatens to ruin all your hard work, by using UV protectors and clever climate control formulas. There is a shampoo and conditioner for every hair type and they will ensure your hair and scalp are kept in the best possible condition. Our wide range of styling products help you to create the latest styles and keep you looking fashion savvy! We also wanted to make the range accessible to everyone therefore choosing stockists such as Waitrose, Tesco’s, John Lewis and from September Asos.com, so our customers can find the range easily.

 

Treatment Review: SUMMER BODY CHEAT, AQUA SCULPTURE DAY SPA (07.08.09)

What it promises: To give you the perfect glow, as well as lose six inches just in time for your summer break. The package combines two different treatments - the CACI Chroma-Oxy facial which includes microdermabrasion and light therapy to combat acne, wrinkles, even skin tone and restore the skin’s elasticity and firmness. And the Universal Contour Wrap which uses natural sea clay to exfoliate, tighten and detoxify in just two hours, as well as sculpting, shaping and firming up to thirty days afterwards.

What happens: The treatment begun with me standing on a towel wearing only a pair of paper knickers. I was measured at various points on my body from the bust down to my ankles to assess how much weight I would lose. I was then tightly wrapped from the ankles up with bandages infused with warm sea clay. I then put on a silver plastic suit including booties, to prevent getting cold, and lay back on a towel-covered bed. Next came the facial by CACI International - pioneers of the non-surgical facelift - which started with a thorough cleanse and then a vacuum massage and microdermabrasion using a small pen-like device. This sloughs away any dead-skin cells or bacteria and was a little uncomfortable. Next came the LED light therapy. First a blue light in a hand-held device is traced across the face to neutralise bacteria and eliminate toxins, followed by a red light to promote healing, increase the production of collagen and reduce any redness that may have been caused by the microdermabrasion. I was then left for 15 minutes while the clay worked its magic, and then de-mummified and measured again.

Results: I was very impressed with the wrap – I did not expect to lose anything but I lost eight-inches (the average is 10 to 14 inches) from all over my body. My legs felt considerably firmer and the lumpy appearance beneath my skin was definitely reduced. I was a little light-headed when I got off the bead and my head really hurt so I knew all the toxins were being expelled. The therapist told me that I would only lose what I needed to and I was happy that the results manifested more in terms of firmness than actual weight loss. The facial was not the most luxurious I have tried, there was no massage or hot towels etc, but the results were excellent. My spots dried up around my chin, and my forehead and cheeks glowed with health. I think the only criticism I would make is being left for fifteen minutes following my facial as it can feel quite claustrophobic while mummified, but overall I was very impressed and left with a spring in my step.

Price: £99 for two hours

Location: 324 King Street, Hammersmith, London, W6 0RR www.aquasculpturespa.co.uk/ 020 8741 0338

 

Feature: SUMMER HAIR TRENDS (07.08.09)

Let your hair do the talking this summer, with our step-by-step guide to recreating the season’s six hottest catwalk-inspired hair trends.

Look 1: BIG VOLUME

Inspired by Christian Lacroix and Ashish, recreated by TIGI

The bed-head look has never been so on-trend. It’s about looking a little dishevelled and totally sexy. Whether you go all-out and make it massive - or simply bigger than normal - make sure it’s anything but tame. It’s time to embrace the messiness.

For O.T.T CHRISTIAN LACROIX texture and volume, follow TIGI Creative Director, HEATH GROUT’S direction…

Step 1: Wash and condition hair with lightweight products that will not weigh the hair down too much - we recommend Bed Head Control Freak Shampoo (£8.10) and Conditioner (£9.20), which will help smooth the cuticle and keep hair straight.

Step 2: Next, power-dry hair to partially dry after applying Bed Head Superstar Blow-Dry Lotion (£11.10) using a large round brush to smooth out the hair and encourage massive volume, and then spray with Bed Head Superstar Queen for a Day (10.80) directing towards the root area.

Step 3: Blow dry fringe to a clean shape. Go over the hair with straightening irons to give additional smoothness. Blast hair out to create additional volume and separation, spray with Bed Head Hard Head Hairspray (£7.80) and then blast with a hair drier? again.

Step 4: If you want more height at the crown, back comb the hair from the roots. Finally spray hair again to keep in place.(")

label.m - 0870 770 8080
TIGI - 0844 844 0944

Our tester said: Ok, so the look seen on the Lacroix catwalk is not necessarily one we’re keen to create like for like (for fear of looking as though we’d just escaped from an institution) but we’re never going to say no to more volume! Thick or thin hair, there’s something very spectacular about having a full-bodied mane of hair…it’s very sexy. These TIGI products really do work wonders for limp hair.

Look 2: SLEEK PONYTAILS

Inspired by: Versace, D&G and Christopher Kane, recreated by celebrity stylist, PHIL SMITH

Smooth ponytails are bang on trend this summer, seen at some of the season’s hottest catwalk shows - Versace and D&G to name just a few. Ponytails are perfect for keeping the hair off your neck and keeping you cool, but this season, at the big fashion houses, it‘s very much about the shine.

This style is about keeping hair minimal, stripping back the over processed and over worked, keeping it simple and off the face.

Step 1: After blow-drying away from the face, section into a centre parting, tie into ponytail with a snag-free band and secure loose strands behind the ears with camouflage style grips.

Step 2: Complete the look with a shine serum, for a glossy frizz-free finish.

Our tester said: I’ve always been sceptical of glossy hair products (so many times have I ended up with greasy locks instead) but this look suited a sleek, mirror-shine finish.

Look 3: MESSY UP-DO

Inspired by Giles Deacon and recreated by LEON of LONDON

This look is all about engineering a style that demonstrates a nonchalant attitude to fashion, beauty and style. It’s the ultimate I-did-this-in-2-minutes look (even though it may have taken you ages). Giles Deacon, always at the forefront of fashion, pulled this off to perfection in his Spring/Summer 09 show, where his models sported a messy up-do.

Step 1: Spray the root of damp hair with Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray (£17.50), this is specially designed to give lift and a naturally textured finish to the hair.

Step 2: Roughly blow-dry the hair, preferably upside down if you are recreating the look on your own.

Step 3: Back-comb all the hair until it is full with volume.

Step 4: Separate the front section of the hair (more of this later!) Take sections of the hair from the side of the head and pull back lightly, keeping the volume of the hair and pushing towards the face to create more lift. Leave a few strands loose to ensure it looks distressed. With Kirby grips hold the hair in place. To disguise the grip push it in and back into the pulled back section of hair, as if snaking the hair in on itself. Repeat on both sides.

Step 5: Lightly pull back the front section of the hair and again push back towards the face so that the hair is lifted, hold in place by staking the grips back into the quiff created, disguising them by pushing them into the lifted section of the hair. Leave some bits un-gripped. If it has been back-combed enough, it should be fairly stiff and hold but ensure stability by spraying all over with hairspray

Step 6: Collect any hair from the back into your hand and then twist round, as the hair twists pull up slightly, so that you get a tornado shape in the back of your hair. Push this out slightly, so that it is loose and grip into place at the back of the head, leaving hair that is at the top to sprout over the pin up. Tidy the ends by curling around in large loops and gripping in place.

Step 7: Finish the look with Bumble and Bumble Extra Strong Holding Spray (£15) to ensure that it stays in place whilst you dance the night away.

Bumble & Bumble - www.bathandunwind.com

Our tester said: I thought this would be a tricky hairstyle to master, but it actually took me no longer than ten minutes (just make sure you have plenty of pins!).

Look 4: GLOSSY LENGTHS

Inspired by Ellie Saab and BCBG Max Azria, recreated by ERROL DOUGLAS of GLOSS

A classically beautiful hairstyle, which transcends fashion fads and will never be a style faux-pas. For Spring/Summer 09, the emphasis is on creating a smooth and glossy texture, eliminating frizz in favour of super-sleek locks. It’s easy to achieve with the right products - with hair this fabulous you’ll look instantly pampered and preened - even if this is not your usual style at all.
Step 1: Wash your hair with a straightening shampoo and conditioner - I recommend Tara Smith Straight Away Shampoo and Conditioner (both £4.99) and apply a glossing serum to tame any flyaway hairs.

Step 2: Centre part the hair using the end of a tail comb and blow dry using a bristle brush and a hairdryer with a nozzle (these will both promote natural shine).

Step 3: Run your hair through straightening irons if you need to, but don’t flatten it – you want it to be sleek, but not ironed to death, which looks very 90s.

Step 4: A final blast of Shine Spray will finish the look – spritz it into the air and walk through it rather than spraying it directly at the hair, which can look a bit heavy and greasy.”

Errol Douglas MBE, 020 7235 0110
Tara Smith – www.cultbeauty.co.uk

Our tester said: My hair had a beautiful shine to it and felt so soft to touch. It’s a hairstyle that I wear on a daily basis, but with these products and more effort spent on blow-drying correctly, I’d look as though I’d stepped out of salon everyday!

Look 5: SUMMER WAVES

Inspired by; Paul & Joe, Charles Anastase and Sportsmaxx, recreated by SHAY DEMPSEY at SEBASTIAN PROFESSIONAL

Shay Dempsey, Design Specialist for Sebastian Professional, thinks sexy, summer hair is an easy and relaxed style which is the perfect hairstyle solution for solid haircuts that have grown-out and lost their shape.

Step 1: After you have washed your hair, spritz Potion 9 Lite (£19.95) onto hair from root to tip and scrunch slightly.

Step 2: Apply a small amount of Thickefy Foam (£17.50).

Step 3: Use a large toothed comb and combine both products together by combing from root to tip.

Step 4: Select one-inch sections and twist hair through your fingers from root to end. This will define the curl or wave within your hair.

Step 5: Use a diffuser if you have one and dry the hair upside down until almost dry, then shake the hair through and apply some Halo Mist (£16.50) to finish.

Sebastian Professional - www.sebastianprofessional.com

Our tester said: I think I’ve cracked it. The products are fantastic, and do exactly what they claim to, but I think taking the time to twist your hair into curls is the make-or-break factor. I followed every word of Shay’s advice and ended up with beach beautiful, wavy -hair. Result!

Look 6: THE BESPOKE BUN

Inspired by Betty Jackson, Ioannisdimitrousis, Kangst, Avsh Alom Gur. Recreated by Toni & Guy.

Whether soft and feminine, or geometric-shaped, buns were a big statement across the Spring/Summer 09 schedule. With reference to jaunty hats or textured turbans made out of hair – bespoke buns, incorporating splashes of colour, complemented the collections. Strikingly architectural, with hidden feminine detailing, hair was made both grand and beautiful.
Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prep hair with label.m Volume Mousse (£9.50), then blow-dry straight using a label.m Extra Large Hot Brush (£10).

Step 2: Using a label.m Cushion Brush (£8), scrape the hair back into a scalp-tight ponytail, just below the occipital bone for a more classic look or at the front of the head for a more editorial feel. The length of the ponytail can be rope plaited, backcombed or left plain and coiled into a circular shape then secured with pins and grips.

Step 3: Add a spritz of label.m Hairspray (£10.25) to finish.
Stockist: label.m – 0870 7708080. www.labelm.co.uk

Our tester said: Ah, another difficult hairstyle to master? Not so - but it’s only really suitable for people with a decent, past-the-shoulders length. If this is your hair, then you’ll be able to make the style work - it’s not at all complicated to achieve and takes less than ten minutes. The label.m hairspray was fabulous, holding my hair in place all day long.