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Archive February 2009

 

TRIED & TESTED: COLLAGEN BOOSTERS (27.02.09)
Collagen keeps our skin plump, glowing, and youthful-looking – but as we get older, the levels in our skin start to fall. We’ve tested six products that promise to fight deep-set lines and wrinkles by boosting collagen levels.

MARKS & SPENCER FORMULA AGE REPAIR INTENSIVE COLLAGEN TREATMENT MASK + CERAMIDE, £7.50 for 75ml (www.marksandspencer.com)
What they say: Specially formulated to help replace skin lipids and rebuild the skins barrier function whilst restoring a healthy complexion.
The Results: I’m in my early 50’s and seem to wake up to more fine lines and wrinkles every morning. I’ve been using this mask twice a week for a month. It has a silky-smooth, creamy texture and smells very luxurious – just like an expensive moisturising cream. I’ve tried facemasks in the past that have left my skin feeling tight or uncomfortable, but I hardly even noticed the mask on my skin for the 10 minutes I needed to wait. After rinsing it off, my skin felt amazingly soft and seemed to have a lovely radiance. After a month, there’s no dramatic decrease in wrinkles, but my skin definitely feels firmer and looks a lot brighter. It’s great value for money.
Best for: Brightening skin

ELEMIS PRO-COLLAGEN BODY SERUM, £45 for 140ml (www.timetospa.co.uk)
What they say: Containing Elemis’ new Micro-Lattice Technology developed specifically for the body, this instantly absorbed, concentrated gel-serum provides an instant feeling of skin firmness and lift - creating an invisible ‘body-stocking’ effect.
The Results: I’ve always exercised regularly, but I’m now in my 40’s and am finding it harder and harder to keep the under-side of my arms looking toned. Gravity is taking its toll and I’d do anything to try and tighten them up. I was excited to hear about this body serum and have now been using it twice daily for a month. The product is lovely – a thin gel with a fresh fragrance, which instantly disappears into the skin and leaves it feeling impressively smooth. I won’t pretend that it performs miracles – no product can achieve the same results as surgery – but I did notice increased firmness in the skin from the moment I applied it. It made my feel much more confident about my arms and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to firm up their skin quickly.
Best for: Body firming

PEVONIA BOTANICA AGE-DEFYING MARINE COLLAGEN CONCENTRATE, £41.75 for 30ml (01449 727 000)
What they say: By precisely combining Collagen and Jonquil Essential Oil, this concentrate delivers ingredients that fight to prevent wrinkles while visibly smoothing the skin.
The Results: I’ve been applying this product every evening religiously for the past month. The concentrate is a thin gel-like liquid, which sinks very quickly into the skin. It felt very cooling as I applied it and I was pleased that it wasn’t at all sticky or greasy. A little goes a long way – you only need a pea-sized amount for each application, so the bottle would last a long time. My face felt slightly tight after application, so I quickly followed with my regular moisturiser. I’ve noticed a visible difference to my skin – the wrinkles haven’t been erased, but it looks smoother and more even toned. Plus, the dryness I usually experience has completely disappeared.
Best for: Dry skin

DR. NIRDOSH COLLAGEN VISIBLE PLUMP ANTI-WRINKLE EYE CREAM, £44.59 for 15ml (www.drnirdosh.com)
What they say: An eye loving, wrinkle detesting anti-ageing cream geared to seriously target age lines, puffiness, dark circles and sagging skin - Collagen V.P. Anti-Wrinkle Eye Cream is a specialist eye treatment stacked with collagen to help reduce wrinkle appearance and regenerate younger looking eyes.
The Results: I’m in my late 30’s and am noticing more and more fine lines around my eyes. On top of that, I always wake up to puffiness and big black bags after a late night. I was excited when I read that this cream would tackle both complaints at once. The texture is very thick, rich, and nourishing. It felt very indulgent applying it and my skin felt instantly hydrated. I’ve been using it for just over a month now and am very impressed. I wouldn’t say that my wrinkles have disappeared, but they seem smoother and less obvious. The whole eye area seems tighter and, although they do still sometimes appear, the dark circles and puffiness are less of a problem now. I’d recommend it.
Best for: Smoothing skin

CLINIQUE YOUTH SURGE SPF15, £36.21 for 50ml (www.clinique.co.uk).
What they say: NEW Youth Surge SPF15 inspired by Sirtuin technology, uses exclusive agents with visible effects. Lines and wrinkles appear to evaporate. Skin gains strength and looks younger, longer.
The Results: I’ve just found my new favourite product! This luxurious, thick face cream is designed to be applied after your regular cleanser, toner, and moisturiser. It tops up your hydration levels, plus adds a SPF15. I really enjoyed applying the cream – it has a neutral scent, with just a hint of the fragrance of sunscreen (it reminded me of far-flung holidays). My skin felt amazing after applying it – soft, smooth, and moisturised. The best bit is that my skin looked instantly plumper and younger. It made a brilliant base for makeup, giving my complexion a dewy glow.
Best for: Instant results

LISA HOFFMAN SPA FACIAL HYDRATING MASK, £33.50 for 35ml, and BOOSTER, £33.50 for 28ml (0207 235 5000)
What they say: The Spa Facial Hydrating Mask is designed to be used in conjunction with the Hydration Booster for extreme moisturisation and collagen production. When used together, the products maximise the skin's production of collagen for increased suppleness and youthfulness.
What we say: I love the stylish packaging of these products – and the contents didn’t disappoint either. I’m in my 30’s and, whilst I don’t have a huge amount of wrinkles, I’m always on the look out for products to plump and perk up my skin. To use these products, you combine the creamy mask and thin hydration booster in the palm of your hand and apply to the face. It felt amazing on my skin – so good that I was loathed to remove it at the end of the recommended 20 minutes. Afterwards, my skin felt smooth, looked plumped, and had a youthful glow. I’ll be repeating the process whenever my skin needs a pick-me-up.
Best for: Plumping skin

Breaking News: LONDON FASHION WEEK TRENDS REPORT (27.02.09)
London has been looking a whole lot more stylish this week. There’s a good reason for it too – the fashionistas are in town, taking up their places in the front rows of London Fashion Week. The-Beauty-Pages.com has been running around the capital to bring you an exclusive insight into the top beauty trends for Autumn/Winter 09.
SLICK UP-DO’S – as seen at Marios Schwab, Betty Jackson, Todd Lynn, Danielle Scutt, John Rocha, and Peter Jensen One of the most common sights on the catwalk this season. Hair was slicked back into a pony tail, almost wet-looking, with not a strand out of place.
BRIGHT LIPS – as seen at Ashish, Jasper Conran, Nathan Jenden, and Vivienne Westwood Red Label. An otherwise sombre palette was brightened up with a steady stream of acid bright pouts – vivid purple, bubble-gum pinks, pillar-box reds, and even turquoise blues.
PLAITS – as seen at PPQ and Topshop Unique. Plaits show no sign of abating for Autumn/Winter 09. From the plaited pony-tails that hung over shoulders at PPQ – to the wiry dreadlocks at Topshop Unique.
BLACK KOHL – as seen at PPQ, Noir/Bllack Noir, Ann-Sofie Back. Thick black kohl-rimmed eyes gave models a striking 60’s-style look.
DISHEVELLED HAIR – as seen at Christopher Kane, Richard Nicoll, Paul Costelloe, Margaret Howell, and Armand Basi One. From the bed-head curls at Paul Costelloe – to the messy pony-tails at Christopher Kane… The catwalks have given us permission to be lazy with our hair.
STRONG EYEBROWS – as seen at Eun Jeong, Roksanda Ilincic, Erdem, Julien Macdonald, and Charles Anastase Eyebrows continue to be a big feature for Autumn/Winter 09 – dark, with a natural-shape, but very defined.
ROLLED FRINGES – as seen at Louise Goldin and Graeme Black. Models wore huge rolled fringes, almost as if the curler was still sat underneath the hair.

Feature: GO GLOBAL (27.02.09)
Is the credit crunch thwarting your penchant for trips abroad? Thankfully more and more products are being imported into this country from foreign lands. So take a holiday from your usual skin and haircare routine and explore what the world has to offer…

AFRICA – Africology
Ever treated yourself to a locally-produced body lotion abroad, only to become addicted to its holiday-fragrance and moisturising properties, then mourned its loss when the pot runs out? Africology makes just that kind of product, but thankfully now imports from Johannesburg to our humble shores. Africology draws on the cosmetic techniques of South Africa's tribes, mingling potent essential oils and indigenous, all-natural ingredients like Rooibos and Marula. "Here in Africa where the sun is a big problem, nature provides enough medicines and cosmetics and food to feed the body, soul and spirit to stay healthy, balanced and harmonious," explains Renchia Droganis, Africology Founder and Company Director. "There is an extensive field of knowledge amongst traditional healers which was obtained from their ancestors and from being master observers of the natural world." Marula, used in abundance at Africology, thrives in South Africa's hot, dry climate. Its preservative and antioxidant properties help to protect against the signs of ageing. The oil also hydrates the skin, heals tissue, reduces redness, reduces trans-epidermal water loss and increases the elasticity of dry, damaged skin. "Here in southern Africa, many tribes make use of the Marula fruit in caring for their skin, including Zulu, Tsonga, Shona and Tswana," says Renchia. "In fact everywhere the marula tree grows, mainly in sub-tropical regions, the bark, roots, leaves and fruit are utilised." The delectable Africology Body Lotion leaves you with silky skin and the distinct scent of the exotic, of neroli and sweet orange essential oils.
Africology Body Lotion £19.99 (01277 634938)

BRAZIL – Surya
The rainforest is, of course, teeming with the most powerful natural resources. Without a cosmetic market, this is what the Amazonian population rely on to look after their hair and skin, as well as their health and well-being. One of the most commonly used ingredients in the Amazon is Cupuacu, or 'The Food of the Gods'. Harvested by the natives, they use it to condition their hair, to protect and repair it during prolonged exposure to the sun. This giant fruit is capable of absorbing more than four times its volume in water and so can also provide intense moisture and elasticity to dry and damaged hair. It is rich in restorative Vitamin E, nourishing Amino Fatty Acids, and potent anti-oxidants. The people of Surya Brazil have harnessed the powers of this super-fruit in a hair mask, now available in the UK. Their range of products caters specifically to specific hair types, but the Cupuacu mask will add an impressive gloss to everyone’s locks, without weighing it down. While sun damage is not as significant a threat to our hair in the UK, the mask also addresses the damage wrought by thermal straightening, blow-drying and our own types of environmental damage. And it smells divine! The Surya crusade is not only to introduce Europeans to these therapeutic wares, but to promote ethically and environmentally-sound harvesting, as Managing Director, Clelia Angelon explains, "As the ingredients become more internationally recognised for their beneficial properties to the body, we hope that demand for these products becomes higher, thus enabling more natives to make a living harvesting the plants via sustainable means." Surya Cupuacu Hair Mask, £10 (Liberty 0207 7734 1234)

TAHITI - Hei Poa
The tropical climate of Tahiti nurtures a lush yield of exquisite flowers and striking women with stunning skin. Many put the natives' looks down to their daily beauty ritual of massaging locally produced Monoi oil into their hair and skin. The pure oil, converted from the Tahitian Tiare flower, is the key to protecting, moisturising and adding a luscious lustre to both men and women from birth. Parisian couple, Elizabeth and Marc Mazza, were inspired by this exceptional beauty, and in 1974 began to import Monoi from Tahiti. Their daughter, Gay Mazza, explains "In France, Tahitian women are renowned as beautiful. My parents thought this was the perfect image to associate beauty products with and therefore originally launched the brand as: 'Monoi HEI POA, Tahitian Women Beauty secret'." To create its Tahitian Monoi oil, Hei Poa cold-presses sun-dried coconuts to extract the oil, before blending every litre with at least 10 Tiare flower blossoms, which are left to soak. The oil forms the base for body cleansers, shampoos, conditioners and lotions, all with distinctively Polynesian-style packaging that evoke associations with the paradise island. The Frangipani oil combines the Tiare flower's tropical scent with that of Monoi and coconuts. Due to the natural ingredients, the bottle needs to be warmed in water first, and then immediately massaged into damp skin following a shower or bath. To treat damaged hair, apply to the lengths and scalp before shampooing and leave in for fifteen minutes, for a seductive Tahitian allure. Hei Poa Monoi Beauty Oil - Frangipani, £8.81 (www.strawberryandcream.com)

ICELAND – Taer
Iceland's unique eco-system of glaciers, volcanoes, pure geothermal waters, and long periods of sunlight make for a rich ecology of organisms that are now being combined to concoct skincare range, Taer. "All these conditions create 'mutant herbs' that boast very impressive properties indeed." says Maya Ho, the Technical Director of Pure Icelandic Ltd. Yarrow is one such ingredient - "Yarrow extract has very high levels of bisabolol, a deep blue healing crystalline that is fantastic for redness and inflammation," explains Maya. "At the same time, it has strong 'cicatrisant' properties, meaning it stimulates cell renewal and helps heal damaged skin, including wrinkles. It is also antibacterial and antifungal, maintaining a healthy skin pH and balance in order to heal and prevent breakouts." On an island so removed from the rest of the continent, the Icelandic people have always been reliant on their natural resources and are proud of the ancient art of herbalism they practice. The herbs, extracts and healing preparations are widely available and the friendly locals all seem to know a lot about the native plant life, as the Taer team discovered there. "We met up with some of Iceland's leading herbalists and received a great insight into the potency and science of Icelandic herbs and how they can benefit the skin." And so Taer's range was developed for all skin types, especially benefiting those with delicate skin prone to redness, rosacea or breakouts. The water-soluble Complete Cleanser exudes the fresh, invigorating scents of Iceland, incorporating organic extracts of Yarrow with the antibacterial eucalyptus and tea tree to thoroughly clean the skin. Taer Complete Cleanser, £24.50 (www.taer.com)

FRANCE – Caudalie
French women are known to be impossibly stylish and well groomed. But is the flawless skin and radiant visage not impeded by the country’s love of fine wines? Au contraire. The vines are rich in skin-perfecting ingredients, as Professor Vercauteren from the University of Bordeaux would testify. When he first visited the vineyards of Château Smith Haut Lafitte, a few kilometres south of Bordeaux, he imparted this information to the owners’ daughter, Mathilde Thomas. She later founded the hugely popular Caudalie, a skincare range that makes use of each part of the native vine to perfect the skin. The most recent launch, Vinoperfect Radiance Revealing Mask, does just this. The grape-seed oil is supremely nourishing, while the grape’s acid content gently refines skin texture and diminishes pores like an exfoliant. Viniferine, the sap extracted from the grapevine, lightens dark spots. The ‘tears of the grapevine’ as it is also known, contains tyrosinase, an active ingredient which prevents the formation of melanin, thus boosting radiance and smoothing the skin. "Modern folklore says that women through history women have used this sap to diminish dark spots," says Mathilde "Also, winemakers often have extremely soft hands due to the fact that they place their hands in wine yeast during the winemaking process." This cunning little skin-perfector comes in a brush-topped tube, limiting the dirt usually transferred to your skin by your hands. You simply brush on and relax for ten minutes, twice a week. Mimicking the treatments of the Caudalie Vinotherapie Spas, you can dream yourself away to the vineyards of France before rinsing off. Parfait! Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Revealing Mask, £27 (www.spacenk.co.uk)

HUNGARY - Omorovicza
In the fourteenth century, Queen Elisabeth of Hungary used a bespoke moisturising mist to care for her regal visage. It was created for her using the thermal waters that filtered up through the geologically unique formations of the Carpathian basin, rich in minerals and trace elements. Some seven hundred years later, Stephen and Margaret de Heinrich de Omorovicza discovered the recipe for the royal mist in Budapest, and seeking to bottle the healing properties of the Hungarian thermal baths, created the Omorovicza skincare range. As Margaret de Heinrich de Omorovicza points out, this mist's recipe emphasizes the great tradition Hungarians have in cosmetic innovation. "Hungarians are enormously proud of their thermal waters and you will rarely encounter people here who do not visit them regularly. In fact, the government actually subsidizes their visits in many instances and they believe in their curative effects. At last, something the Hungarians have long cherished is recognized by people outside the country." It has, of course, been updated with help from the Hungarian Laboratory of Dermatology. It was discovered that the minerals are more effectively absorbed by the skin while they're kept in their dissolved state by the thermal water, rather than crystallising when the water evaporates. Omorovicza has created the Pannon Complex, the dual purpose of which is to keep the minerals in their dissolved state and improve their delivery whilst revitalising the skin. So, if you can't make it to Hungary for your evening bath, indulge your skin with its most potent minerals in this purifying and brightening facial mist. Omorovicza Queen of Hungary Mist, £41.50 (Liberty’s 0207 734 1234)

Breaking News: WIN ONE OF FIVE BLEMISH COMPLEX KITS, WORTH £29.95 EACH (27.02.09)
There’s nothing more frustrating than recurring spots, blemishes and acne. This week, we’re offering five lucky readers the chance to win a complete Blemish Complex kit, worth £29.95 each. Blemish Complex has just been launched onto UK shelves, following sales that exceeded two million in the US. The range was created by dermatologists and took over 35 years to develop. Clinical testing has indicated that 90% of those who used the kit experienced a reduction in blemishes in only four weeks. The 30-Day supply promises to be tough on spots, but gentle on skin. So, what’s the secret? The majority of acne products on the market contain a high percentage of Benzyol Peroxide, a drying agent that can cause soreness and irritation to sensitive skin. Blemish Complex, however, replaces this compound with Salicyclic Acid and Hydrogen Peroxide, which treats the bacteria that causes spots without having an adverse effect on the skin. Each kit contains a 30-day supply of the following four products:
Clarifying Cleanser - Proven to reduce irritating surface bacteria in less than one minute, eliminating oil and impurities.
Exfoliating Blemish Treatment Gel - – Exfoliating Acne Treatment Gel designed to eliminate surface bacteria, sweep pores clean and gently exfoliate to control breakouts.
Skin Perfecting Lotion – Oil-free hydrator designed to refresh, rejuvenate and heal blemishes, while reducing overall sebum production.
Blemish Target Formula – Fast-acting formula designed for individual blemishes.
For your chance to win, simply email competitions@the-beauty-pages.com before the end of Thursday 5th March with your name, delivery address, daytime telephone number, and answer to the question below: Question: How many products does the Blemish Complex Kit contain? If you’re not lucky enough to win, you will find Blemish Complex Kits at your local pharmacy and www.boots.com

TREATMENT REVIEW: AVEDA BOTANICAL HAIR AND SCALP THERAPY (06.03.09)
What it promises: It is billed as a “holistic facial for your hair”, but is essentially an intensive moisturising treatment which repairs dry, damaged or chemically treated tresses, as well as promoting a more balanced scalp. It also promises to calm the body and senses by combining special botanical oils with a therapeutic scalp, shoulder and hand massage.
What happens: This treatment is available nationwide. I chose to visit the Gina Conway Salon & Spa in Wimbledon, London. From the moment I walked through the door of the stylish, contemporary salon, I was hit by the most amazing aroma that immediately made me feel relaxed and transported me a million miles away from the bustling high street outside. I was offered a delicious cup of Aveda herbal tea, and my therapist Jo asked me to fill out a form detailing my skin type and stress levels. She then carefully analysed my scalp and the condition of my hair, before gently sectioning it and applying a Scalp Remedy Balancing Concentrate for dry scalps, to moisturise and melt away tension. This was followed by the most delicious 15-minute Balancing Touch head, shoulder and neck massage, to stimulate circulation and energy flow to the head. Next came a thorough washing with a Dry Remedy Moisturising Shampoo in the first comfortable back wash seat I’ve found, complete with an adjustable foot rest and lovely hot, not the usual luke-warm, water. My hair was then combed through, and a Strength Infusion treatment was applied to repair and increase resistance to breakage by 71%. A very unglamorous plastic bag was then placed over my head and covered with an electric heater for ten minutes, while I enjoyed a stress-relieving hand massage focused on key pressure points to release muscle tension. Finally, the conditioning treatment was rinsed away, and my hair blow-dried to a sleek finish.
Results: Amazing, I couldn’t believe it was my hair. It was bouncy, glossy and gorgeous. There was nothing about this treatment that didn’t impress, whether it was the highly efficient and professional staff, the informative advice on how to treat my dry scalp, the soothing but firm massage, I even loved the quirky background music. I could have quite happily fallen asleep in the chair given half a chance – the only drawback I’d say is that it is quite expensive, but if you only treat yourself to one thing this month, then this should be it.
Price: £60 for a 75-minute treatment (including blow dry)
Location: Available Nationwide. Call 0870 0342380 or visit www.aveda.co.uk for nearest location. We visited: Gina Conway Salon & Spa, 21-23 Wimbledon Road, SW19 7NE, 020 8090 5818 (www.ginaconway.co.uk)

 

Blog: HAIR STYLIST ZOLTAN VARGYAI REVEALS THE MOST INNOVATIVE HAIR TREATMENT OF 2009 (20.02.09)

Hi, I’m Zoltan Vargyai the Creative Director of my own salon in Covent Garden. I am also one of London’s leading hairdressers in hair ‘remodelling’ which means hair restructuring and retexturising. Women are so short of time nowadays that they want a hair style that is easy to manage and that literally means being able to wash and go. I travel the globe sourcing the latest and best techniques and treatments available so I can ensure my clients have a style and treatments best suited to their hair type. I also specialise in straightening and perming techniques, which have come along way since the corkscrew perm of the 80’s and the Rachel straight of the 90’s! Women now want to be able to recreate salon perfect, even catwalk hair, at home that is super glossy with no signs of frizz.  The treatment that’s on everyone’s radar for 2009 is the Brazilian Keratin treatment, it fights everyday hair dilemmas such as frizz, reconditions over processed hair and adds shine and volume to lank and dull looking hair. It’s loved by women all over, from celebrities, beauty editors, fashionistas to everyday working girls.Perfect for this time of year when you’re giving your body a well earned overhaul and your hair is in need of some serious TLC. So if you’re a serial user of straightening irons, a styling product junky or just longing for super glossy hair then the Brazilian Keratin Treatment is the answer to all your hair prayers. It’s an innovative process that transforms the hair in its entirety by coating the hair shaft with the hair’s primary protein, Keratin. This natural substance gives your hair the ability to return to its original healthy, shiny, smooth state – humidity, rain or sweat will no longer affect your hairstyle – every girls dream! The application lasts anywhere from 1½ to 2½ hours depending on the length and thickness of the hair and it follows 5 easy steps….. Hair is washed with a deep cleansing shampoo and 80% blow dried. The Keratin treatment is then applied to sections of the hair from root to end, the hair is then blow dried straight and finished with hot irons which trap moisture, hydrate the hair and create a glossy finish. You then leave your hair for the next 3 days, no washing, no ponytails, slides or tucking behind the ears, eeek I hear you cry. But then you have frizz free, super glossy salon perfect hair for the next 3 months – what more could a girl ask for! www.comptonhair.co.uk. 0844 50 90 999

Feature: A-LIST BEAUTY (20.02.09)
We may not have been invited to the Oscars, but it doesn’t stop us wanting to look as perfect as those A-Listers. We’ve got the inside scoop on the products, treatments, and fitness regimes that are responsible for getting Tinseltown’s finest ready for the biggest night of the year.

A-LIST CAMPAIGNS
Chanel is known for setting high standards, be it in couture, handbags or jewellery, and their ad campaigns are no exception. Famously blowing traditional advertising budgets and choosing the most famous A-listers as ambassadors, it’s no wonder that a Chanel endorsement comes top of the wishlist for many of today’s celebrities. Keira Knightley was chosen as the “face” of Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum, £54 for 50ml (0207 493 3836) for a print and film advertising campaign directed by Joe Wright of Atonement fame. “Designer” brands aren’t the only ones to use celebrity endorsement to sell products. Actresses and singers have increasingly replaced models in recent years as research has shown consumers are more inclined to believe a recognised spokesperson, as well as the obvious aspirational value they bring to the brand. Revlon is one such brand, counting Halle Berry amongst their spokeswomen. Halle cites her favourite products as ColorStay Mineral Foundation in Medium Deep, £12.71 (Boots nationwide, stockist number 0800 085 2716), an easy to use powder base which is a fantastic introduction to mineral make-up, and Super Lustrous Lip Gloss in Nude Lustre, £6.35, which can be worn alone for a wash of sheer colour or over lipstick for a dramatic high-shine finish. L’Oreal’s adverts have featured a who’s who of Hollywood, uttering the famous “because you’re worth it” slogan. Eva Longoria is one of the latest spokeswomen for the brand, who says, “My favourite is the Double Extension Mascara, £9.78 (www.boots.com): I can’t live without it, I love the way it thickens. For the lips, I love all of the Glam Shines, £6.99, there are some great colours and they are easy to fit in your purse when you go out. The texture is great, they’re not gooey or sticky and they are very easy to wear.”

A-LIST BODY
With the world’s flashbulbs poised, it’s no wonder that celebrities have their personal trainers on speed dial. Matt Roberts is responsible for toning the bodies of a handful of famous names, including Trudi Styler. He has created a “Quick Fix Programme”, which offers his clients a two week intensive regime in preparation for major events. The programme combines cardio and resistance training, along with a strict ban on alcohol and no eating before bed time. He explains, “The programme uses a no-nonsense, no-excuses approach combining Interval, Constant Pace, and Compound training techniques that require you to use the massive incentive of reaching your goal as your driving force.... I am always conscious of my clients’ desire to reach specific goals on time. This programme goes beyond the normal demands of a maintenance programme and provides the extra push needed to really change your shape.” For further details see www.mattroberts.co.uk . Sounds a little too energetic? Fear not! You can “cheat” your way to the perfect A-List body. Numerous celebrities have been photographed wearing FitFlops, from £36 (www.thefitflop.com. described as “the flip-flop with the gym built in”, they have become an essential purchase for their leg toning results. Founder of FitFlop, Marcia Kilgore, explains that their appeal before an important event may even go beyond that, “Ten minutes in FitFlops while you get ready for a party should help your feet withstand the pressure of high heels with renewed aplomb! Lots of people have reported that they wear them as slippers... the low density midsection of the midsole massages your feet and gets the arch muscles working, like a warm-up, making FitFlops the perfect pre- and post-Manolo pick!” Talking of Manolos, those opting for shorter gowns should slather on City Girl Firming Leg Shimmer by RioBlush, £42 for 200ml (www.citygirlbeauty.co.uk) before getting ready. Developed by Hollywood makeup artist Kyra Panchenko while working on Sex and the City, the lightweight formula hydrates and adds a subtle hint of colour for a natural glow. It contains micro-shimmer to reflect light and mask imperfections, along with 5% Liporeductyl, a potent cocktail proven to firm, tone and reduce the appearance of cellulite. For special events, apply baby oil gel first, allowing to dry before topping with City Girl for an extra glow which looks truly amazing in photos.

A-LISTER TREATMENTS
The A-listers have their pick of the best beauty therapists in the business when preparing for a Red Carpet event, but there are ways to recreate their favourite treatments at home. Kirsten Dunst is one of many celebrities who trust renowned facialist Vaishaly Patel to tend her skin. The Signature Facial, £125 for 1 hour (0207 224 6088) combines extraction, microdermabrasion, lymphatic stimulation and traditional massage. To inject some Vaishaly magic into your skincare regime at home, check out the skincare range which starts at £35. If you only choose one product, make it the fabulous Anti-Aging Day Moisturiser SPF15 (£45 for 50ml at www.vaishaly.com ). Across the Pond, stars including Kate Beckinsale and Calista Flockhart can’t get enough of Kate Somerville’s treatments at her Skin Health Clinic on Melrose Place, where the philosophy is “Renew Skin, Restore Health and Deliver Results”. Paris Hilton is also a fan, saying “I love Total Vitamin- the vitamins make my skin feel really fresh.” Look out for the signature skincare range, recently launched exclusively at Space NK in the UK. We’ve fallen head over heels for the Total Vitamin Antioxidant Face Serum (£62 for 1oz at www.spacenk.com). At Ole Henriksen’s Hollywood spa on Sunset Boulevard, one of the most popular treatments among celebrities before the Oscars is the African Red Tea Body Cocktail Treatment, fans of which include Jessica Alba. The relaxing treatment comprises elements of massage, a purifying brown sugar body scrub, along with a yoghurt and African Red Tea body mask which takes effect whilst the body is layered with fresh orange slices and enveloped in a warm wrap- an incredibly indulgent way to clarify and detoxify the body. The treatment (£135 for 1 ½ hours) is available at The Spa at Bluebird, 350 Kings Road, London, 0207 349 5090. To recreate at home, try the African Red Tea Body Cocktail Kit, £65 (Harvey Nichols nationwide, 0207 235 5000), a beautifully presented set that contains 3 x 6oz pots of Exotic Body Scrub, Firming Body Mask and Self-heating Body Souffle. Perfectly manicured nails are also an essential part of A-list grooming. Marian Newman, who has manicured the nails of A-listers such as Nicole Kidman and Natalie Portman, has created a range of nail colours for use at home. Inkredibles are easy-to-use due to the brush-pen applicator and dry quickly. Try “Platinum”, a gorgeous metallic, and finish with Wrapture Top Coat, £21.53 for a set with 1 colour and 1 Wrapture Top Coat (www.mariannewmannails.com)

A-LIST MAKEUP
A flawless base is an essential starting point, particularly in these times of High Definition TV. Scarlett Johansson ensures her peaches and cream complexion looks enviably clear using the aptly named Rodial A-list Cleanser, £46.98 (www.rodial.co.uk). Amy Adams and Kate Bosworth swear by the Dermalogica skincare range - try Sheer Tint Moisture SPF 15, £23.30 (0800 591818) for a great, everyday base. On days when skin needs a helping hand, dust on T.LeClerc Banane Loose Powder, £24 (www.t-leclerc.co.uk), which will banish all preconceptions that powder gives a flat finish to makeup. The product gives skin a luminous finish, which has made it a must-have for Jennifer Lopez and Drew Barrymore. It’s a well-known fact that you should choose either the eyes or the lips as a focal point, not both. Those who like smoky eyes should try Giorgio Armani Maestro Eyeshadow in shade 23, £18.00 (Selfridges, 0207 318 2486), as worn by Victoria Beckham. Finish with Blinc Mascara, £18.00 (Harvey Nichols, 0207 235 5000), which forms tiny “tubes” around lashes and is loved by numerous celebrities including Lucy Liu for its lasting effect. For aspiring rom-com leading ladies, make lips irresistibly kissable with Lancome La Laque Fever in Simply Red, £17.00 (www.lancome.co.uk), as seen on Emily Mortimer at the recent BAFTA Awards. To complete the look, ensure nails are perfectly polished. From OPI (polishes £9.95 each at www.lenawhite.co.uk), look out for The Thrill of Brazil, a classic yet sexy red which was specially created with Angelina Jolie in mind. If neutrals are more to your taste, Kiss on the Chic is a barely-there pink which was used in the recent Bride Wars movie. For fun, fashion-led colours, try Ciate Paint Pots, from £7.35 (www.asos.com)- Kimberley Stewart’s favourite brand.

A-LIST HAIR
Hair is arguably an A-listers greatest accessory and has been known to make an actress a household name. Renowned tricologist Philip Kingsley has a legion of celebrity clientele including Oscar winner, Cate Blanchett, who adores his Elasticizer hair treatment. To treat very dry or damaged hair at home, apply Elasticizer Extreme, £23.50 for 150ml (www.philipkingsley.com) to the ends of hair before shampooing and allow the mask to take effect for 2-20mins, depending upon requirements, to leave hair soft and hydrated. Frederic Fekkai has styled the hair of some of Hollywood’s biggest names; his team recently created nominee Anne Hathaway’s sleek hairstyle for the Golden Globe awards. He has created a signature range of haircare products, tailored to treat different needs- to give fine hair A-list worthy “oomph”, try the Full Volume Shampoo, £15, and Conditioner, £16 (John Lewis, 0845 604 9049). For the recent BAFTA Awards, Andrew John, Artistic Manager at Charles Worthington, styled Bond Girl Gemma Arterton’s hair. Gemma had requested an up-do to show off the detailing on her high necked Dior gown. Andrew primed Gemma’s hair using Charles Worthington Salon Shine Results Volume Boosting Mousse, £4.49 (www.charlesworthington.com) and then lightly tonged different sized sections of the hair to create texture and volume. He left her fringe swept across her forehead and loosely pulled back sections of the hair, twisting and securing with grips. A little Charles Worthington Salon Shine Results Max Hold Hairspray, £4.49, finished the look, adding shine and keeping it in place until the after party.

A-LIST SCENT
Spritzing on a favourite scent can be just as important to Red Carpet preparation as deciding which dress to wear, as Roja Dove, Professeur de Parfums at the Roja Dove Haute Parfumerie, 5th Floor, Harrods (0207 893 8797) explains, "Scent touches the most primitive of all senses. It is processed in the brain’s emotional nerve centre - the Cerebellum. As we smell an odour, hormones flood through our body evoking primitive reactions of attraction or flight. If you can find the perfect scent - it gives you the ultimate feel good factor as it will make you feel so positive about yourself that it will create positive reactions from those around you." Oscar hopeful, Kate Winslet loves Touch Eau de Parfum by Tocca, £56 for 50ml (Harrods, 0207 730 1234), a sweet floral scent that is evocative of feminine sensuality, with notes of Pomegranate, Tiare Flower, Jasmin and Egyptian Balsam. Whilst in London, Goldie Hawn visited Miller Harris, whose flagship store features a gorgeous tearoom offering the perfect escape from the hustle of the city over a cup of fragrant tea and rose scented cupcake. She picked up a bottle of Noix de Tubereuse Eau de Parfum, £70 for 100ml (www.millerharris.com) – an elegant, oriental aroma with notes of Amber, Mimosa and Violet. Those preferring lighter scents should try CK in2 U For Her, £25 for 50ml (0800 083 6310) - a modern citrus fragrance of which Lindsay Lohan is a fan. Or treat yourself to Bluebell Eau de Toilette, £50 for 50ml (www.penhaligons.co.uk) by British brand Penhaligon’s, which Sienna Miller adores. Finally, as spring approaches, check out Emporio Armani Diamonds Eau de Parfum, £39.50 for 50ml (Selfridges 0207 318 2486), as worn by Beyonce – a deliciously fruity fragrance which smells good enough to eat!

TRIED & TESTED: SHINE SPRAYS (20.02.09)
Whether it’s long, short, curly or straight, there’s one simple rule for hair this Spring – it needs to shine. We’ve tested six sprays that promise to add instant shine-power to your locks.

LABEL.M SHINE SPRAY, £9.95 FOR 125ML (0870 770 8080)
What they say: Take hair from lacklustre to luxury with Bamboo, Fig, Echinacea and Juniper. The exclusive Enviroshield Complex protects hair against heat styling and UV Rays.
The Results: I used to have the budget to pay for professional treatments for my hair every couple of months, which meant it had a permanent glossy sheen. I can’t afford to do that now and my long brunette hair is looking very dull and flat. I’ve been searching for a product to give it a bit of life, so was pleased to be asked to test this shine spray. It’s important to hold the can at least 20cm away from the hair – I tried it closer first time round and it made the hair look damp. When done properly, it gave an impressive shine to my straight hair, making it almost glitter as I walked. The best bit, though, was the staying power. I applied it in the morning and received comments from friends when I met them for drinks at 6pm.
Best for: Staying power

AVON ADVANCE TECHNIQUES MIRROR SHINE SPRAY, £4 for 100ml (www.avonshop.co.uk)
What they say: Gives you the same incredible glossy shine but now with Colour Reflective technology, to dramatically enrich dull, flat colour with a more intense colour brilliance. With UV filter to protect hair from sunlight.
The Results: I love the size of this bottle – perfect for weekend washbags and throwing into my handbag in the morning. The fragrance is quite professional – exactly how I’d expect a product to smell in a luxury salon. The mist is quite fine, but you only need a few pumps to cover your whole head of hair. I have coloured hair and know it’s in quite poor condition – I was really, really impressed with how this spray lifted the highlights and made the colour look lovely and vibrant. When I found out the price, I was shocked. I’d expect to pay four times the amount for this performance – it’s my new favourite product.
Best for: Budget buy

S FACTOR SHINY HAPPY PEOPLE SPRAY SHINE, £13.30 for 200ml (www.tigihaircare.com)
What they say: This delicious strawberry mint fragranced shine mist contains a blend of ingredients to give brilliant, long-lasting shine. The lightweight spray smoothes the hair and penetrates the cuticle to improve the overall condition whilst providing a silky smooth velvety sheen.

The Results: The tall aerosol bottle looks like a hairspray and delivers a very fine mist – perfect for fine hair like mine, which easily gets weighed down by styling products. My hair is blonde and I find it hard to keep it looking glossy and bright. I’m impressed with this product – I used it immediately after blow-drying and found it gave my hair a lovely luminous shine. I wasn’t expecting the minty fragrance and I loved the fact I could smell it on my hair all day. The shine is most intense immediately after spraying – it tends to fade by lunchtime, so I’d recommend keeping a can at work for lunchtime top-ups.
Best for: Fine hair

CATWALK CAMERA READY SHINER & DEFRIZZER, £10.75 for 100ml (www.tigi.co.uk)
What they say: Simply mist this lightweight liquid through your hair and watch everyone focus on its new reflective qualities! It not only creates smooth, silky hair but banishes negative frizz and flyaways too!
The Results: I have tight curly hair, which becomes frizzy at even the forecast of rain. I’m keen to try any product that promises to banish frizz, so was thrilled to be asked to test this product. I loved the watermelon fragrance, which instantly freshened up my hair between washes. I sprayed it finely, from about five inches away. The shine it gave my hair wasn’t extreme, but it definitely made the colour look brighter and the texture healthier. I applied it after blow-drying and I was pleased with how well it flattened frizzy flyaway strands of hair. I’m going to keep it in my handbag, as it’s ideal for perfecting my hair before a night out or when I get caught out in a rain shower!
Best for: Curly and frizzy hair.

PAUL MITCHELL “THE SHINE” SPRAY-ON POLISH, £12.95 for 125ml (0845 659 0012)
What they say: This fine, but highly concentrated, easy to use mist contains the Paul Mitchell® Activated Botanical blend of Aloe, Jojoba, Henna and Rosemary along with high shine silicones to help provide hair with exceptional shine.
The Results: The instructions on the pump-spray bottle state that you should only spray ‘lightly’ onto hair – I’d strongly recommend following this, as otherwise the hair might can end up looking a little wet. The fragrance is very sweet – it reminded me of cherry soda! It tones down on the hair and leaves it smelling sweet, but not at all overpowering. I was really impressed with the gloss it gave to my dark brunette hair – it looked shiny, healthy, but still has a lovely light and bouncy texture. I have thick hair and always wish I could swap it for a sleek glossy mane – this is the closest I’ve ever come and I’m a big fan.
Best for: Thick hair

TIGI BED HEAD HEADRUSH SHINE ADRENALINE WITH A SUPERFINE MIST, £13.05 for 200ml (0844 844 0944)
What they say: Shine explodes from the can creating immaculate, healthy-looking hair in an instant! It adds depth to highlighted and coloured hair, leaves hair smooth and glossy and creates an even all-over sheen.
The Results: I’ve recently coloured my short hair red, from its natural dark blonde. I love the shade, but the dye has left it in quite poor condition – the colour looks flat and dull. This aerosol can is a very generous size, so I was quite happy to spray it liberally. The first thing I noticed was the gorgeous fruity fragrance, which clung to my hair and kept it smelling fresh all day. I found that the shine was more intense the closer I held the nozzle to my hair – I guess it’s because the spray was more concentrated. It’s definitely made a difference to my colour – my Mum even commented on how healthy my hair was looking, which I’m sure is down to this product.
Best for: Coloured hair

Breaking News: WIN ONE OF TEN BOTTLES OF FAKE BAKE FAUX GLO INSTANT TANNER (20.02.09)
Fed up of looking pale and pasty? Want a sun-kissed glow in seconds? Desperate to be transformed into a bronzed beauty? Then we’ve got just what you need, because not only have the experts in self-tanning - Fake Bake launched a new and natural-looking sunless tanning product - they’re giving ten lucky readers the chance to bag one before anyone else. Launching in March, ‘Faux Glo’ is a fast and fuss-free way to inject a little je ne sais quoi to your skin tone, without having to fork out on a trip to the Bahamas. Suitable for both the face and the body, this all-in-one quick-fix solution is an adaptation of Fake Bake’s world-famous salon spray-tan, but with the added benefit that you can apply it yourself behind closed doors, minus the skimpy paper pants. And when it comes to the end of the night and you’re ready to come clean, you can easily wash it off with good old-fashioned soap and water. Fortunately the application process is just as simple thanks to a fancy new nozzle. Yes, it might sound irrelevant, but for everyone out there who’s ever tried to administer a spray tan themselves, you’ll no doubt have come up against more than one nozzle-clogging issue. Luckily, Faux Glo has a 360 degree spritzer which ensures you get a flawless, even coverage with every spray - even when you’re using it upside down for those ‘tricky to reach’ regions. With the credit-crunch friendly price tag of £10.99 per bottle, what more could you ask for? For your chance to win, simply email competitions@the-beauty-pages.com before the end of Thursday 26th February with your name, delivery address, daytime telephone number, and answer to the question below: Question: What is the retail price of a bottle of Faux Glo Instant Tan? If you’re not lucky enough to win, find your nearest Fake Bake stockist at www.fakebake.co.uk or call 0870 054 4455.

Breaking News: SIMPLE OFFERS EVERY READER OF THE-BEAUTY-PAGES.COM A FREE ONLINE SKIN HEALTH CHECK, WORTH £9.78 EACH (20.02.09)
Worried about lines and wrinkles? Despairing over blemishes? Tired of dry, flaky skin? Fed up of your oily complexion? If so, we have the perfect gift to offer you this week – a completely free online skin health check by top skin consultants at Simple, worth £9.78. A one-to-one consultation with top skincare experts at an affordable price is hard to find – until now. Log onto the Simple website (www.simple.co.uk) and work your way through 27 questions about your lifestyle, diet, skin complaints, and skin appearance. And, after the experts have carefully assessed your answers, you will be sent your detailed personal report by email within 24 hours. Your report will include personalised information about your skin structure, skin type, eyes, lips, chin, neck, and skin care routine. You will find out how your diet, lifestyle, or environment is impacting your skin. And, most importantly, you will find out what you need to keep doing – or stop doing - to keep your skin looking its best. So, we hear you cry, what is the catch? There isn’t one. There’s absolutely no pressure to buy any products. In fact, there isn’t a single product recommendation contained within the main report – for this, you need to click on a separate link (we highly recommend you do, as the company knows what will work perfectly for your skin type). Ready to find out about your skin? Visit http://www.simple.co.uk/Skin-Health-Check/ and input the promotional code BEA25.

Salon Review: LEON LONDON (20.02.09)
Location: 17 George Street, London W1U 3QL. 0207 2244007. www.leonlondon.com
The Salon: Make your way past the tempting bakeries, designer clothes stores, and buzzing coffee shops of London’s Marylebone Village and you will stumble upon a gem. Behind windows strung with glittering crystals, lies stylish hair salon LEON London – a destination that every London-based girl-about-town needs firmly penned in her address book.
The interior of the salon is impressive – slick black leather chairs, a charcoal slate floor, and silver mirrors at every turn, which make the space feel vast. The décor may be cool, but the atmosphere is anything but... Whether you are a hard-working professional, dropping in for a weekend pick-me-up, or a glamorous celebrity, seeking the finishing touches to your red-carpet look, you will be made to feel like you’re the most important customer to have walked through that jewel-strung door.
The man to ask for is Leon Fancetti. With years of experience in Paris and Milan under his belt, creating hair styles for the likes of Vogue, Elle, and Harpers Bazaar, Leon now has a long celebrity and socialite following in London. His expert advice, stunning cuts, and outstanding colour will be the best investment you could ever make for your hair.
Services: Cut & Finish (from £65), Blow-Dry (from £30), Men (from £40), Event hair (from £50), and Colour (from £60).

 

Tried & Tested: LUXURY SHOWER GELS (13.02.09)

Turn your bathroom into a luxury spa with our pick of luxury body washes.

AROMATHERAPY ASSOCIATES RENEW ROSE BODY WASH, £21.50 for 200ml (www.aromatherapyassociates.com)What they say: A luxurious everyday body wash with added skin nourishing properties. Softening to the skin. Antioxidant properties. Leaves a lasting fragrance on skin.
The Results: I don’t spend much money on my shower gels – I usually buy whatever is on special offer at the supermarket, so the fuchsia tube looked incredibly stylish sat in my shower. Massaging the amber-coloured gel onto my skin felt very indulgent – it has a silky-smooth texture and a rich fragrance of roses, which reminded me of a luxury day spa. A coin-sized blob produced lots of fragrant lather – great news, as the 100ml tube will last a long time. My skin often feels dry after a shower, but I noticed that it felt soft and hydrated as I was drying off. I could smell the scent of roses on my skin all morning, which was a real treat.
Best for: Scenting skin

CLINIQUE SKIN CUSHION BODY WASH, £11.26 for 200ml (www.clinique.co.uk)
What they say: A cream-mousse body wash that gently cleanses even the driest of skins. Contains ingredients that hold moisture to the skin, never stripping the skin of its natural moisture.
The Results: I’m not a morning person, so any beauty product that can coax me out of bed is worth its weight in gold. This body wash definitely made my 7am shower more appealing. The texture is like a thick, creamy body lotion, yet it lathered easily to spread over the body. It’s very soft – it felt like my skin was covered in silk. I was enjoying using it so much, that I was quite loathed to wash it off. There’s no scent to this product and I wasn’t sure if my skin was going to feel clean afterwards, but it felt surprisingly fresh. I’d totally recommend buying this product – it makes showers a real pleasure.
Best for: Value for money

MOLTON BROWN AMBRUSCA BODY WASH & POLISH, £20 for 200ml (www.moltonbrown.co.uk)
What they say: A new lease of life for dull and listless skin. This bodywash and polish exfoliates old skin cells, deep cleanses, stimulates and boosts circulation.
The Results: I’m always short of time in the morning, so I was pleased when I found out that this product would clean and exfoliate my skin at the same time. The bronze-coloured gel is packed with tiny fragments of olive stones, which work to slough away dead skin cells as you massage it over your body. It’s very gentle – more of a tingly sensation than a scratch. The gel itself has a zingy citrus fragrance, which definitely helped to wake me up at 6am! My body was left feeling very soft and highly moisturised – there was no need to moisturise after my shower, which saved me vital minutes before I set off for work.
Best for: Multi-tasking

DERMALOGICA CONDITIONING BODY WASH, £28.20 for 473ml (0800 591818)
What they say: A rich, skin-conditioning botanical cleanser for the entire body.
The Results: The packaging wasn’t very exciting, but I was very impressed with the size of the bottle. I was surprised when I pumped some into my hand, as it had the luxurious scent of essential oils – not what I expected from such a clinical, white bottle! I had a massage in a spa recently and the fragrance reminded me of the oil they used – totally indulgent for my early morning shower! It lathered up nicely on my skin and left a trace of fragrance clinging to me all morning. I felt very clean, plus my skin felt beautifully hydrated. Expensive for a shower gel, but the bottle would last months.
Best for: A spa experience

PHILOSOPHY AMAZING GRACE PERFUMED SHAMPOO, BATH & SHOWER GEL, £18 for 473.2ml (www.hqhair.com)
What they say: A uniquely feminine and moisturising shower gel for gracious bodies. Because it is formulated with nourishing milk proteins, it calms even the most sensitive skin and nourishes the driest hair, leaving it soft and shiny. Clean skin and hair have never smelled so delicious.
The Results: I’m a big fan of Philosophy, but have never tried their signature ‘Grace’ fragrance before testing this product. I’ve fallen head over heels for it. The scent reminds me of talcum powder or vintage soap – very feminine, subtle, and pretty. It would work brilliantly in the run-up to spring, when heavier sweeter scents no longer seem to work. I loved the fact this product could be used as shampoo, bubble bath, or shower gel. I stuck to the body wash and was impressed with how well it lathered – a little definitely goes a long way. It left my skin feeling very clean and refreshed, yet I could still smell traces of the perfume. I’m going to have to invest in other products from the range!
Best for: Getting in the mood for spring

NEOM EVERYDAY SOFTEN AND ENERGISE ORGANIC BODY WASH, £16 for 240ml (www.neomorganics.com)
What they say: Super soft body cleanser, with soothing and toning extracts of Calendula and Marshmallow to deep cleanse whilst gently moisturising. Scented with a serious feel-good and refreshing blend of bergamot, black pepper and white grapefruit to enhance detoxification and circulation whilst starting and ending everyday feeling bright and positive.
The Results: The pump-bottle comes in a stylish white box and looks very luxurious. I couldn’t wait to test it. I’ve used a few products from the NEOM range before and was expecting this body wash to have a rich scent, but in fact it’s very subtle. The gel has a deliciously silky texture, which made it a joy to massage over skin. My skin felt incredibly smooth afterwards and injected with moisture – it usually feels dry and quite uncomfortable after a shower, but I didn’t even feel the need to apply moisturiser. The fact that the product is organic is an added bonus, but I would definitely be investing in this anyway.
Best for: Hydrating skin

Feature: SPRING/SUMMER 09 TREND REPORT (13.02.09)
Get ready to take on the six biggest beauty trends of Spring/Summer 09.From dark-rimmed eyes to bold and beautiful lips – we’ve got the know-how and show-how to ensure you achieve haute couture hair and super-luxe looks that’ll see you through the season.

THE PLAIT-PACK
Think: Criss-cross creations with credentials
Seen at: Erdem, Danielle Scutt, Richard Nicoll, Marios Schwab, Bora Asku, Marc Jacobs, Emporio Armani Trend breakdown: Loops, twists, coils and braids made for a rather horsey affair at countless shows this season, with French plaits taking on an equestrian guise. Elsewhere, Rapunzel-like ropes and loose plaited ponies in various shapes and sizes had a more fairytale feel.
Tips from the top: ‘Hair off the face is big for S/S09 but incorporating intricate detail is a must - plaits and braids are the perfect solution for a sculptural and elegant do.’ Gary France, Toni&Guy International Artistic Director
‘Last year we saw plaits and braiding at the front of the hair in a crown-esque fashion á la Sienna Miller. This year the catwalks were full of plaits being worn in ponytails and in varying sizes and thickness.’ Darren Fowler, Clipso International Creative Director
‘Horses' manes were a major source of inspiration backstage, from hardworking stable fillies with their heavy hair pulled back into dishevelled ponytails to elegantly elongated roped chignons mimicking show-worthy horses tails.’ Malcolm Edwards, L’Oreal Professionnel Creative Session Stylist
DIY: To keep hair soft and silky, wash locks with Wella’s System Professional Repair Shampoo, £10.45 (www.system-professional.com) towel-dry your hair and then apply Sebastian Professional’s wearable treatment - Potion 9, £19.95 (www.sebastianprofessonal.com) full of essential oils that will make your hair more manageable and easier to style. Once you’ve sculpted hair into your chosen twist, smooth down any flyaway strands with Phil Smith’s Xrated Shine Serum, £3.99 (Sainsbury’s) and to bring out your hair’s natural shine, run some of Paul Labreque’s Repair Finish Grooming Control Cream, £18 (Selfridges) through the ends.

ENGLISH ROSE
Think: Everything’s prettier in pink
Seen at: Peter Som, Sonia Rykiel, Paul & Joe, Emanuel Ungaro, Graeme Black, Preen, House of Holland, Derek Lam
Trend breakdown: Soft rose pinks, subtle cerise’s and fiery fuchsias were blossoming on the catwalks this season. Cheeks were freshly-flushed as though models had just stepped in from frolicking in freshly-mown fields, and lips were light and glossy. To adapt the trend for after-hours, the delicate blush remained, but lips were taken a shade darker for a bitten, thorn-pricked look.
Tips from the top: ‘Keep cheeks glowing with a sheeny blush. Bourjois' new mini cream blushers glide on and dry fast so you can build colour that will stick.’ Cassie Lomas, makeup artist for Bourjois
‘Take a soft baby pink blusher and blend along the cheek bones for a subtle wash of colour, then stain lips with a light pink lipstick or sheer gloss to create a must-have romantic look.’ Chase Aston, makeup artist for The Body Shop
‘Lips have a bitten look with a rose pink twist. It’s a stain, but one that’s less about saturating the lips with colour. The best way to achieve it is to apply your lipstick and then rub it off to leave just a hint of colour.’ Makeup artist Dean Rudd for MAC, backstage at Graeme Black
‘The cheeks are very much a focal point of the S/S 09 look. Whether this is with a very sculpted cheek or a pop of pretty pink on the apple of the cheek, the focus has definitely shifted to the lower half of the face.’ Lou Page, celebrity makeup artist for Clinique
DIY: For a romantic rosy glow choose Bourjois’ mini blush in Rose, £2.95 (Boots stores nationwide), Clinique’s Quick Blush in Pronto Pink, £21 (www.clinique.co.uk) or Estee Lauder’s limited edition Fleur de Lys Shimmer Powder, £25 (0870 034 2566) for a pale posy tint. Lip-wise The Body Shop’s Roseflower lips in True Pink, £10 (www.thebodyshop.co.uk) has a glassy sheen, Bobbi Brown’s Blush Pink Creamy Lip Colour, £14 (www.bobbibrown.co.uk) is perfect for dabbing on with your fingers, while Chanel’s Levres Scintillantes in Wild Rose, £17 (020 7493 3836) boasts a silver sheen.

BLACK BEAUTY
Think: Dark, exaggerated eye-drama
Seen at: Miu Miu, Lanvin, Temperley, Dries Van Noten, Giles Deacon, Ashish, Matthew Williamson
Trend breakdown: While the clothes moved towards a lighter, brighter palette, painted black peepers, ink-lacquered lids and smudged smoky eyes continued to blink back at onlookers this season. Defined by bold blocks of graphic liner, or rubbed to create a slept-in, caked-on effect, kohl-rimmed eyes in the blackest of blacks certainly made their presence felt on the catwalks.
‘The key to the look is the depth of the black which, when used fearlessly creates a black latex look for lids. Hard lines and strong shapes give a bold, graphic and altogether more modern look.’ Pat McGrath, Global Cosmetics Creative Director for Max Factor

‘To recreate the wet-look grungy feel at Ashish, paint on MAC Fluid Line in black track with a soft brush to form a round, sexy eye then use carbon eyeshadow over the top to intensify the colour. Apply mascara to lashes, concentrating at the root, and finish with a slick of clear lip glass to the top and bottom lash line.’ Makeup artist Georgina Graham for MAC, backstage at Ashish

‘For a heavy black lined eye, choose a liquid liner that can be thickly applied. Start at the outer corner of the eye and work into the middle, then again from the inner corner until they meet. (Go over this with a stiff brush dipped in a dark colour as an alternative to black if you’re inexperienced and blend over the liquid to strengthen the effect). Take this under the eye too and line the inner rim with soft kohl, then add a layer of mascara to finish.’ Cassie Lomas, makeup artist for Bourjois
DIY: Line eyes with Givenchy’s Magic Kajal, £12.23 (01932 233824) to give a thick, black texture above and below the waterline, then create a wet-look finish using either a clear lipgloss, slick of Vaseline or Lancome’s Lacque Liner Piha Sparkle, £17.50 (counters nationwide) which gives a sequined effect when applied over black eyeliner. If you want to cover your entire lids in black, B Never Too Busy To Be Beautiful’s B Black Cream eyeshadow, £11.75 (www.bnevertoobusytobebeautiful.co.uk) will give great coverage and provide a polished look, or smudge on Maybelline New York’s Eyestudio Mono in Black Metal, £3.99 (Superdrug) for more matte results. To finish, add lashings of MaxFactor’s False Lash effect mascara, £10.99 or Bourjois’ Volume Glamour Ultra Curl mascara, £7.99 (both available at Boots).

LILAC LADY
Think: A palette-full of purple
Seen at: Zac Posen, Chanel, Modernist, Aquascutum, Bernard Chandran, Todd Lynn Trend breakdown: Picking up where purple left off in autumn/winter, lilac put in several appearances on the spring/summer runways. A slightly more subdued hue than the damson, berry tones six months prior, amethyst and lavender tints on eyes and lips served up a futuristic feel to the face. Tips from the top: ‘With this season’s acerbic purple (lilac now has edge rather than any bridal connotation), there’s no holding back: glossy metallic iris eyes are the perfect counterpoint to wearing an elegant ensemble, as proved at Aquascutum.’ Charlotte Tilbury, makeup artist for MAC
‘We wanted to mirror the purple palette of the clothing collection but take it a step lighter, so we used pale violet pigment on the lips, followed by a white tint on the cupids bow and centre of the lips to give a sexy, iridescent sheen. Eyes were then filled in with cool pink and lilac, but with no eyeliner or mascara, which meant the look maintained a feminine focus.’ Makky and the MAC Pro Team backstage at Modernist
DIY: For lilac lids, choose iridescent eyeshadows that will add shimmer and shine. Breathless pressed eyeshadow by B Never Too Busy To Be Beautiful, £8.30 (www.bnevertoobusytobebeautiful.co.uk) and Korres’ Shimmering eyeshadow in Purple, £11 (www.beautyexpert.co.uk) glide on effortlessly and provide a metallic glow. Finish with Perfect Every Line Gel Eyeliner in Eggplant by Prescriptives, £13 (0870 034 2566) for a refined take on the trend, or for a look that’s light-years ahead, use Lancôme’s Le Crayon Kohl in Blanc, £14 (counters nationwide) in the inner corners of your eyes to open them up and give them a futuristic feel. Lip-wise, MAC’s new collaboration with Hello Kitty has some great quirky colours including their bright lilac lipstick in Fashion Mews, £11.26 (www.maccosmetics.co.uk), or do as the professionals do and combine MAC pigments, £14.68 together on the lips to create a truly bespoke tint.

BOLD LIPS
Think: Attention-seeking smackers
Seen at: Betty Jackson, Luella, Louis Vuitton, Nina Ricci, Miu Miu, Karen Brost, Danielle Scutt
Trend breakdown: Injecting a burst of colour onto the catwalks were lips painted in bold, bright shades. Offsetting pared-down complexions, stains, glosses and matte-look lipsticks all provided pouts that packed a punch and added a touch of glamour to the mix.
‘Strong statement lips are big for spring/summer, I wanted the models’ lips to look as though they’d been kissing all night, so I put a little bit of gold lipstick in the cupid’s bow on top of red lipstick, on top of a couple of layers of gloss.’ Makeup artist Rachel Wood for Benefit, backstage at Karen Brost
‘From scarlet red at Louis Vuitton to a pop-art inspired fuchsia at Hussein Chalayan and a crimson tie-dye effect at Nina Ricci, the bright, bold lip is the fastest route to effortless eye-catching glamour, and is as much about the texture as it is the colour.’ Pat McGrath, Global Cosmetics Creative Director for Max Factor
‘You can get a really nice subtle pout by powdering around the mouth - it gives the lips a lot more definition and creates the perfect focal point’ Makeup artist Dean Rudd for MAC, backstage at Graeme Black
DIY: In the quest to find the perfect shade, texture and consistency, glosses have started to masquerade as lipsticks and vice versa. Estee Lauder have launched a range of Pure Color Gloss Sticks, £14.68 (0870 034 2566) which look like lipsticks but go on like glosses to give a high-shine effect. The Body Shop have followed suit with their Roseflower Lips collection in a trio of pinks, £10 each (The Body Shop), creating a gorgeous glassy pout that lasts. Bourjois have moved away from gloss and instead developed a collection of new matte-look lipcreams – So Delicate, £7.99 (Boots) that come in a tube, while Prescriptives have handed the baton over to you entirely and are offering customers the chance to create their own custom blend lipgloss, £19.57 (counters nationwide). For red lips, Givenchy’s Rouge Interdit in Maharani Henna, £17.62 (01932 233824) gives an Eastern twist to the traditional trend, while Revlon’s Matte Lipstick in Pink About It, £7.13 (0800 085 2716) lends itself to the coral colourways faultlessly. And if you can’t bear to be parted from your old favourites, don’t be scared to blend two or three colours together to create your own signature shade.

WET-LOOK WONDER
Think: Baywatch glamour meets poolside chic
Seen at: Paul Smith, Pringle of Scotland, Christopher Kane, Gareth Pugh, Alexander McQueen, Richard Nicoll
Trend breakdown: We’ve had our fair share of beachside-beautiful hair, oozing with that effortless surfer-chick style – what we haven’t had is a ‘just stepped out of the swimming-pool’ slant - until now. This season, runways were awash with wet-look hair that was dripping with glamour and slick with sophistication.
Tips from the top: ‘A clear influence on the hair throughout was water. A key fashion trend for the season, the fluidity and movement seen in hair matches the watery colours, shades, textures and shapes of clothes. Occasional, softly structured quiffs and rolls mimicked breaking waves, while at Alexander McQueen, hair hugged the contours of the face, as if literally underwater. ’ Sam McKnight, Global Hair Ambassador for Pantene
‘Sexy Lauren Hutton on a stifling Safari, Bond beach babe Ursula Andress and a sensual Herb Ritts photo shoot with bikini-clad models are all iconic images that capture the spirit of this wet-look trend. Hair has moved on from the slicked back 80s looks of last season, to more wearable styles using plenty of products to ensure hair is controlled and wearable.’ Malcolm Edwards, L’Oreal Professionnel Creative Session Stylist
‘Reflecting fashion with leather and patent fabric trends, beach-wet styling has been making a huge impact. Long or short hair can go glossy, or for long hair worn down, soak hair into loose tendrils.’ Paul Mitchell
‘To create the look, warm up a dab of gel in your palms and smooth the hair around your face and back towards the crown’ Guido Paulo, Redken’s Creative Consultant
DIY: There’s no right or wrong way to create this style, but one thing you will need is some decent hair gel. For a super-strong hold Redken’s urban experiment enamel gel 26, £14.70 (0800 444 8800) will hold hair fast, while Paul Mitchell’s Super Clean Sculpting Gel, £8.20 (0845 6590 012) contains glossy resins and shine enhancing conditioners that will make your hair glisten as if wet. And if you’re unsure of how best to apply the product, just imagine getting out of a pool and scooping your hair back off your face. To finish, use a styling product like L’Oreal techni.art’s Fix Design, £9.45 (0845 6000 122).

Treatment Review: THE BRAZILIAN BLOW OUT, AT COMPTON HAIR IN COVENT GARDEN (13.02.09)
What it promises: To straighten hair and restore it to its natural smooth, healthy state so that it is no longer affected by humidity. Unlike other straightening/relaxing treatments that use frightening chemicals such as formaldehyde, this one contains just keratin, the hair’s primary protein, so that it does not damage or alter the hair’s texture. The results are expected to last for two to four months, and can also be used on chemically treated and permed hair.
What happens: The Blow Out takes between one and four hours depending on the length and thickness of your hair - I was sat in the chair for around two-and-a-half hours. The salon itself is quite eclectic; several of the walls are lined with pictures from magazines of models’ tresses, giving it a more bohemian atmosphere than the slick chrome salons that are standard for central London. My hair was washed with a deep-cleansing shampoo for around five minutes to ensure it was totally clean. And after a sip of my complimentary peppermint tea, the softly spoken, Hungarian owner, Zoltan, got to work applying the keratin paste section by section. My hair was then blow-dried for around an hour before it was sealed with hot-irons to create the glossy straight finish. I was quite alarmed by the amount of steam rising from my head but I was assured that this was normal and my hair was not being damaged.
Results: When I walked out of the salon, my hair looked poker straight but also quite greasy from the excess product which had been applied. I was not allowed to wash it for three-days nor even put it behind my ears. I have long thick hair so I waited for around five minutes until I had to tie it back. When I eventually washed my hair (you are advised to use a special Sodium Chloride-free shampoo to prolong the results) it was a lot less greasy and much more manageable. I normally have to blow-dry my hair or put it up, but left to dry naturally it still didn’t go frizzy. It is not quite so ramrod straight, probably as a result of my tying it back, but it feels much silkier and is a breeze to comb after washing. The only downside is that it has lost some of its body – and if I’m honest I prefer my hair with a bit of bounce so if that means frizz, then so be it.
Price: From £95
Location: Compton Hair, 44-46 Shelton Street, Covent Garden. 0844 50 90 999. www.comptonhair.co.uk.

BLOG: JACQUI WEAVER – CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF FISH HAIRDRESSING – BLOGS ABOUT HER FAVOURITE HAIR TRENDS FOR SPRING/SUMMER 09 (13.02.09)
For 2009 long locks are most definitely back! Whereas throughout 2008 bobs and pixie/elfin crops reigned supreme, this season the fashion forward are on a mission to grow their tresses. Long hair provides a great basis for many of the trends seen on the Spring/Summer 09 catwalks, whether it be super straight and glossy, hippy chic and tousled or ultra glam with a 1940's inspired wave. Super long locks with a few textured long layers are both highly versatile and super stylish, and also give you lots of options for on-trend up do's. That is not to say short is out, not by a long shot. Bobs and crops are going to be around for a long while yet, but 2009 will see them slightly more extreme! Bobs will be getting that bit shorter and sharper with crops being tighter and more daring, with undercut sides/backs and more length left through the top to add a versatile, almost punky edge. Pretty plaits are going to be a massive trend too, whether it be tiny braids, chunky plaits or ornate fishtails - literally anything goes. Plaits are a perfect look for day or night, whether it’s a simple plait pinned across the front of the head for a hippy-esque DIY hair band or a messy fishtail pinned to the head for a more glamorous evening look. This season’s up-do’s are all about looking effortlessly cool, they are big and backcombed and ultra messy for a look that is romantic with a rock ‘n’ roll edge. Hair looks textured, almost fluffy, and is pinned up in a random fashion with plenty of height at the crown. Jacqui helped develop the Angel Fish hair styling collection available at Boots nationwide, prices from £4.99. The model shot pictured is taken from the Fish n Chicks calendar 2009 shoot, download free from www.angelfishsoho.com.

Breaking News: L’EAU D’ISSEY LAUNCHES NEW LIMITED EDITION FRAGRANCE – A DROP OF CLOUD (13.02.09)
We flirted with ‘Drop on a Petal’ and were smitten with ‘Reflections in a Drop’, but get ready to fall head over heels in love with the third, and most recent addition to L’Eau D’Issey’s line of limited edition fragrances – ‘A Drop of Cloud’, created by award-winning perfumer Daphné Bugey,. Each spring Japanese designer Issey Miyake invites a guest perfumer to develop a new scent to woo our senses using the original L’Eau D’Issey fragrance as inspiration. The brief this time – capture the essence of a cloud in a bottle. Taking into consideration everything from shape, texture and consistency of the airborne beauties, even the packaging plays a part in the overall experience of this one-off fragrance. The classic conical bottle now boasts a cloudy, pearlescent transparency, whilst the box has been studded with a pink and silver honeycomb design, all in an attempt to represent the weightless motion of a cloud. And then there’s the smell. Fresh and floral, follow your nose and you’ll soon pick up the rose notes from the signature scent - although this time they’ve been subtly mixed with white tea and white wood to give it a soft, airy aroma. Subtle enough to wear in the day, but just as suited for an evening soirée; just a few squirts of this heavenly scent will see you through from dawn til dusk. Perfect for spring when light nights beckon, you’ll be floating on up to cloud nine before you know it. L’Eau D’Issey A Drop of Cloud costs £42 (50ml) and is available from department stores nationwide.

Blog: NOELLA GABRIEL – DIRECTOR OF PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT AT ELEMIS – IS GETTING BACK TO BASICS (06.02.09)
It’s not everyday you see a director working behind the retail counter, but I make sure that this is one of my priorities as I feel its important to be in touch with the customers I’m designing products and treatments for. There is a trend that women, when entering a cosmetic hall, are looking for the exact same thing as they do when they come in for a beauty treatment - high quality, result-driven products and treatments that will keep you looking young! Often they are disillusioned by the pots of miracle creams that promise to deliver great results but don’t. At Elemis we are encouraging clients to go back to basics and help them to remember what products should deliver - and that is nothing but excellent, honest results. I truly believe we are a product of our lifestyles, and to be able to recommend products requires a great consultation that takes into account the person and their unique characteristics. Embarking on a lifestyle consultation before purchasing your moisturiser will save you money, which is handy during the credit crunch! You will be prescribed the right moisturiser that will suit your skin at that time, which means purchasing the correct products and what you really need for the face or body. One of the most motivating and inspiring things for me is the feedback I get from clients whose skin has responded from to their prescribed products and relaying back to me the comments they hear receive from friends about their skin. The key to finding the best product for you, that work with your lifestyle and not spend at the first instance, is to spend 10 minutes of your time with a qualified therapist at one of our Elemis SkinLabs. Here, you will receive a personalised Skin, Body and Lifestyle programme supported by a face mapping analysis to highlight evidence of sun damage, blocked pores and colour variation. After your consultation you will be provided with a personal lifestyle prescription which gives you a better understanding of age maintenance and lifestyle management without it having to cost you an arm and a leg. Following a customised skincare routine at home is the only way to achieve the cared-for look, and will stop you impulse buying and rushing out looking for that ‘miracle’ product. This does not mean you will have to make any major adjustments to your lifestyle. It can be as simple as including an extra bath time, or daily use of moisturiser and applying a serum underneath. Focus on the essentials and getting rid of all the ‘airy fairy’ add-ons that have crept onto your beauty table. We all need to understand the importance of good products, delivered by good hands and supported by great knowledge.” For more information contact Elemis. T: +44 (0) 1278 727830. W: www.timetospa.co.uk

Breaking News: WIN ‘HIS’ AND ‘HERS’ FRAGRANCES FOR VALENTINES DAY, BY STELLA MCCARTNEY AND ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA (06.02.09)
What have you got planned for February 14th? Hot date? Romantic meal with the other half? Big night out with friends? Whatever you have in the diary, it demands a fabulous fragrance – and this week, we are offering you the chance to win just that.Better still, our Valentines Competition gives you the chance to win not one, but four stunning fragrances – a set for yourself and another to hand over to your lucky date on the big night. The fragrances have a combined retail value of £150. We’ll get the prize to you on the morning of the 13th, giving you ample time to get the heart-embossed wrapping paper ready for your hot date. When Cupid is hanging around, only the most luxurious fragrances will do. For the girls, we are offering Stella McCartney’s stunning Stella in Two Peony Eau de Toilette (50ml) and Stella in Two Amber Solid Perfume (2g). The scents are ultra-feminine, sensual, and very stylish. Peony combines delicate floral notes with spicy black pepper, patchouli, cedar wood and amber – the effect is warm and delicious. Amber embraces the scent of a rose, but gives it a modern, musky edge. The fragrances are designed to be worn together and work perfectly for February 14th.For the boys, we have two suave fragrances by Ermengildo Zegna – ZegnaIntenso (100ml) and Z Zegna Extreme (50ml). ZegnaIntenso combines the light notes of green mandarin, Italian lemon, cardamom and pink peppercorns, with the darker notes of vetiver, cedar, sandalwood, vanilla, and tonka bean. The result is a fragrance that is sensual and very intense. Z Zegna Extreme, on the other hand, features exciting top notes of mandarin and grapefruit, spicy middle notes of cardamom combined with the powdery notes of rose and juniper berry, and woody bottom notes of Kashmir wood, patchouli, and vetiver. It’s exciting, energising, and revitalizing. Fancy winning the set? Simply email competitions@the-beauty-pages.com before the end of Wednesday 11th February with your name, preferred delivery address for Friday 13th February, daytime telephone number, and answer to the question below: What is the combined retail value of the four fragrances? Fancy treating yourself to Stella in Two or Ermengildo Zegna? Call 01444 255700 for your nearest stockist.

Breaking News: FREE BEAUTY SAMPLES FOR EVERY READER - AT LATEST IN BEAUTY (06.02.09)
Wouldn’t it be great if there was a website where you could select the beauty products you wanted to try and receive samples in the post a few days later? Wouldn’t it be even better if the service was free – and some of the biggest names in beauty were getting involved? We’re thrilled to report that our beauty prayers have finally been answered in 2009, in the form of fabulous new website Latest In Beauty. The site works with companies that want you to try their products. They believe that if you use one of their products just once, you will see how good they are and will want to use them again. Giving you a free trial size to try out at home is the best way to convince you that their product is the best one available today. They also want to know what you think of their product, so by giving feedback on it once you have tried it you will be helping the companies develop even better products in the future. The products online will definitely tempt you – samples from Hugo Boss, Virgin Vie, L’Occitane, and John Freida feature alongside the impressive selection on offer this month. Ordering your samples is simple – visit the website, register as a member, choose up to three samples every month to try, send a text message to contribute £1 towards post & packaging, then sit back and wait for your products to arrive. What better excuse do you need to click on the link? Visit: www.latestinbeauty.com

Spas & Treatments: INTRACEUTICALS O2 FACIAL AT FACE SPA BY FAYE FASAN (06.02.09)
What it promises: To infuse the skin with a cocktail of vitamins and anti-oxidants using an oxygen jet which improves cell growth, enhances collagen and elastin, as well as plumps, hydrates and generally improves the surface of the skin. It also promises to firm, as well as lift the brow, cheek and jawline, and the results can last for up to two weeks. It is an A-list favourite, with the stars of Sex and the City, all enjoying it before hitting the red carpet and Madonna apparently has one of the £18,000 machines in each of her homes.
What happens: First my skin was cleansed thoroughly with a light gel cleanser, then it was traced all over with a pen-like device which, with a blast of oxygen, infuses the skin with a serum containing Hyaluronic acid, green tea and aloe vera, as well as a host of vitamins. Particular attention was paid to any lines around the eyes and mouth and it felt very cool and relaxing. Afterwards, some eye gel was applied followed by some Moisture Binding cream.
Results: This was one of the most fuss-free, effective facials I have ever tried. I am not a fan of being patted and rubbed with hot stones for hours, all in the name of anti-aging, I like to walk out of a facial and see some results. Immediately after the treatment my skin looked a little more hydrated but nothing remarkable, but after three days I really noticed a visible difference. My skin looked plumper, richer and my pores looked smaller; my complexion was more even and it looked more nourished and healthy than it had done in years - quite frankly, I cannot wait to have it again.
Price: From £125, for 45 minutes.
Location: Face Spa, 2nd - 3rd Floor, 69A, King’s Road, London, SW3 4NX. 020 7351 0911. Email Chelsea@meditechclinics.co.uk

Feature: VALENTINES GUIDE (06.02.09)
Hot date lined up for Valentines? We’ve taken inspiration from the Spring/Summer 09 catwalks to compile the ultimate guide to getting ready for the big night.

FLUSHED CHEEKS
Every girl needs a sexy flush to her cheeks on Valentines Day and, luckily for us, the look was featured heavily on the catwalks for Spring/Summer 09. Whether you choose the structured cheekbones of Missoni, the pretty pinks of Stella McCartney, or the doll-like reds of John Galliano, one thing is guaranteed – you are going to be very on trend this February 14th. Personally, we will be taking a hint from Stella and keeping things as natural as possible. The best tool for the job is MEMEME’s Pussy Cat, which comes in at a credit-crunch-friendly £4.99 (0208 684 7000). The brand’s Makeup Artist Kieron Bradshaw, thinks it’s the perfect product for the big night - “Pussycat is beautifully sheer and light, allowing you to create a fresh romantic style without looking like you’ve tried too hard on that all important Valentine’s dinner date!”
Step by Step
1) After applying your base, dab a little Pussy Cat on the apples of your cheek. Immediately blend the product in an upward motion with a finger, tracing the curve of your cheekbone.
2) Reapply as many times as you like, building up the colour gradually until cheeks have the desired level of colour. The product can be added to lips too, for a natural rosy tint.

SEXY TOUSLED LOCKS
There’s an important rule for Valentines Day girls – do not go near your straighteners. Locks on the Spring/Summer 09 catwalks were tousled, curled, or wavy – but never poker-straight. It’s a look that will work perfectly with your Little Black Dress on February 14th – Jacqui Weaver, Creative Director of Fish Hairdressing, has these top tips.
Step by Step
1) Spritz clean, dry hair with Puffer Fish Root Lift Spray, £4.99 (www.angelfishsoho.com). Follow this by winding small sections of the hair onto heated rollers, taking care to roll in the direction you want the hair to fall.
2) Remove the rollers when they have cooled completely. Give hair your desired parting and comb to tease out the curls.
3) To add definition and banish frizz, work a coin-sized amount of Sleek Fish Smoothing Serum, £4.99, through the hair.

RED LIPS
Lips this season need to be bold – and what better colour for Valentines Day than a vibrant smouldering red? You’ll be taking a heavy hint from the catwalks – Luella, Michael Kors, and Louis Vuitton were amongst the shows that included a steady stream of crimson-lipped models for Spring/Summer 09. Painting your lips such a bold hue isn’t easy – there’s no disguising slips or jogs. Invest in a good lip liner to stop the colour bleeding and follow our simple guide to achieving the perfect pout.
Step by Step
1) Start by drawing an outline with Barry M’s Lip Liner in Red, £2.95 (www.barrym.com). The shape has to be perfect – if you make a mistake, swipe it straight off and start again.

2) Next, paint your lips with the brightest pillar-box red that you can lay your hands on. We love Elizabeth Arden’s Limited Edition Go Red Lipstick, £15 (STOCKIST?) – a deliciously vibrant colour, which raises money for the World Heart Foundation with every sale (what better excuse do we need?). For the best control when applying the lipstick, use a brush. Bobbi Brown’s Lip Brush, £16.64 (www.bobbibrown.co.uk) has a tapered edge for ease of application.

3) Finally, apply a crystal clear or bright gloss to act as a topcoat – try M.A.C Cosmetics Pro Longwear Gloss Coat (£9.30). If you don't have one to hand, dust lips lightly with a transparent powder to keep the colour locked in.

A SVELTE FIGURE
Skimpy outfit planned? How very ‘this season’. Sculptured, body-hugging, thigh-skimming outfits were seen at a plethora of shows for Spring/Summer 09, including Alexandra McQueen, Versace, and Dior. If those post-Christmas pounds still clinging to your hips, it’s well worth investing in The Sanctuary’s Trim and Tone Kit, £24.46 (www.thesanctuaryspa.co.uk) before the big night, which includes a pot of body clay, four bandages, a loofah mitt, a tape measure, and a chart. Already a popular treatment at The Sanctuary Day Spa, the kit makes it possible to achieve the same impressive results at home. The detoxifying clay wrap promises to tone wobbly upper arms and tummies, with up to 5cm average loss for each application.
Step by Step
1) Choose the areas that you want to treat and take ‘before’ measurements with the enclosed tape measure.
2) Massage the purified white body clay - infused with natural ingredients for detoxification - generously over the areas using the loofah mitt.
2) Apply the extra-wide bandages over the clay-soaked area. The bandages are tightly ribbed for instant slimming and toning effect.
3) After an hour, remove each bandage carefully and shower off any excess clay. Grab the tape measure and take note of your new svelte Valentines figure.

HALF-UP, HALF-DOWN DO
Take inspiration from Zac Posen’s Spring/Summer 09 show, with a modern take on a half-up/half-down look for your hair. The hair sits high on the crown of the head, yet falls soft and flowing over the shoulders. It’s the perfect balance between dressed-up glamour and effortless femininity. Andy Smith, Artistic Director of John Carne Hairdressing and Schwarzkopf Professional Ambassador, tells us how to get the look.
Step by Step
1) Make sure hair is clean and dry, before preparing it for the look with a volumising combination of a styling cream and a mousse, such as Schwarzkopf Professional OSiS Upload, £9.75 and OSiS Grip, £7.95 (www.schwarzkopf.co.uk) to boost hair’s staying power .
2) Blow dry hair in small sections throughout, smoothing with a large round brush for silky smooth results. Then set in Velcro rollers and leave to cool, before taking them out and running your fingers through the length of the hair.
3) Take a section from around the crown and backcomb the roots in small sections. Smooth the hair from the front of the head over to the back, pinning softly at the nape of the neck with Kirby grips. Once in place, tease hair with your fingers to create the desired shape and to slightly distress the finish.

SMOKY EYES
It’s a look that rarely goes out of fashion – and it appeared again this season on Fendi’s Spring/Summer 09 show. For statement notice-me-eyes this February 14th, simply follow our guide below… A few words of warning... Don’t be tempted to try this look with bold lips – it’s a case of choosing one or the other. The catwalk dictated that dark brooding eyes should be teamed with the fairest nude pouts this season. It should be your eyes doing all the talking.

Step by Step
1) Invest in Elizabeth Arden’s Colour Intrigue Eyeshadow Duo in Blackcurrant, £17 (Elizabeth Arden Counters Nationwide). Start by taking the lightest of the two colours and sweeping it across the lid to brighten the eye area. Then apply the darker shade to just the outer corner of the eye.

2) For definition, line the upper and lower lids using a grey eyeliner- try Ruby & Millie Eye Liner in Grey, £9.50 (www.boots.com), which is intense and vampy. Don’t rim the eye entirely, as this will make it appear smaller. Finish with generous slicks of black mascara – we love Benefit Bad Gal Lash, £14.50 (www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk).
3) With such a heavy eye, keep lips nude and matte. Try using your usual concealer instead of lipstick, patting over the entire lip area. If you are lost without a little colour, use you’re a sheer gloss in place of the concealer. Apply straight onto the centre of the lip and pat in with your fingertip to create a soft stain.

TRIED & TESTED: VALENTINES FRAGRANCES (06.02.09)
Looking for the perfect fragrance for February 14th? Whether you’re getting romantic with a candlelit meal or dancing the night away with a group of friends - we’ve found six scents that work perfectly for the big night.

PENHALIGON’S LOVE POTION NO.9, £50 FOR 50ML (www.penhaligons.co.uk).
What they say: Strange & beguiling, LP No. 9 for ladies is a potent and addictive brew of sweet floral notes, spices and musk. It opens with a creamy accord of tarragon and lavender sharpened with a twist of lemon. The heart reveals the open sweetness of carnation wrapped in rich sensual base notes of cedar, spice & vanilla. The final effect is gorgeously soft and romantic, shot through with powdered memories of love.
What we say: It couldn’t get much more feminine than this – powder pink packaging, fuchsia-toned perfume, and a ribbon bow around the bottle’s neck… It will look as good on your dressing table as it smells on your wrists.
The Results: I was expecting this pink fragrance to be very subtle, soft, and girly, so I was quite surprised when I sprayed it and instantly detected spicy and musky notes. It’s stronger than I expected, but is still very sweet. I could easily pick out the lavender and vanilla, which I thought worked really beautifully together. After a few minutes of sitting on my skin, it softened and smelt quite powdery and sherbet-like. I think the fragrance would suit women that are very feminine, yet like their scents to have a bit of oomph. It’s quite formal – I’d definitely recommend it for wearing on special occasions.
Best for: A formal dinner or theatre date

JO MALONE RED ROSES COLOGNE, £61 for 100ML (www.jomalone.co.uk).
What they say: Composed of seven types of roses from around the world, Red Roses is a surprisingly clean, voluptuous scent. With a heart of crushed violet leaves and hints of lemon, it unfolds like a bouquet of fresh-cut flowers.

What we say: A classic Jo Malone bottle, containing a generous 100ml of fragrance. It doesn’t have to try to be stylish – it just is. The cologne has a subtle pink tinge.

The Results: I love nothing more than a bunch of red roses, but I’ve never felt the urge to smell like them. When I first heard that I was testing a rose-scented cologne, I did worry that I’d end up smelling a little mumsy. Then I caught the words ‘Jo Malone’ and my hopes rose. Being handed the bottle was a real treat – I love the fact that the brand give all the focus to the fragrance and not fancy packaging. The scent reminded me of that intoxicating moment when you walk through the doors of a florist, yet it is very light and wearable. It’s such a simple scent – no base notes, middle notes, and top notes. It’s just roses throughout, but quickly softens on the skin to become sweet and vanillery. I didn’t expect to like it as much as I do – I’ve fallen head over heels.

Best For: A lunchtime date

B NEVER TOO BUSY TO BE BEAUTIFUL TWO HEARTS BEATING AS ONE, for £23.49 for 12g (www.bnevertoobusytobebeautiful.com).

What they say: Two Hearts' instant florals are clean and exotic, developing gradually into a delicately sweet floral musk, which is sensual and sophisticated. Its balance of rose and jasmine is clearly evident, intertwined with the beauty and elegance of the rose.

What we say: A stunning handmade French bottle, with vintage-style pump atomiser. The fragrance has a deep amber colouring.

The Results: This bottle reminded me of those I’ve seen before in antique shops or flea markets. As soon as I set eyes on it, I could imagine the fragrance would be very stylish and quite intense. I wasn’t wrong – it’s a classic scent, with rich floral and deep musky notes. It’s quite strong when you first spray it, but soon sweetens and mellows. It reminded me of parma violet sweets as it settled on my skin. It’s very elegant, grown-up, yet also has a sexy edge. It needs to be worn with an amazing dress and high heels – it’s definitely not one for jeans and T-shirts!

Best for: A glamorous night out

DIOR HYPNOTIC POISON, £42 FOR 50ML (www.debenhams.com)

What they say: A fragrance for the spellbinding seductress whose fascinating glance electrifies and bewitches. A mesmerizing scent, Hypnotic Poison is provocatively magnetic, the fusion of four intense and vibrant notes. An intoxicating sensual alchemy that leads to obsession.

What we say: You couldn’t miss this fragrance on the shelf… Deep crimson packaging, containing a vivid red bottle in the shape of an apple, with black and gold detailing.

The Results: With bright red packaging and the name ‘Hypnotic Poison’, I knew that this perfume would have a big impact when I sprayed it… It did – but not in the way I expected. While I was waiting for a powerful punchy fragrance to arrive on my wrists, I instead detected something very sweet and incredibly feminine. It reminds me of French Vanilla and almonds, but with a hint of the exotic. It’s totally addictive – I can’t stop spraying it onto my skin, hair, and clothes. I met my friend for lunch today and she immediately asked me what scent I was wearing – something that has never happened to me before.

Best for: A first date

KATE MOSS VELVET HOUR, £29 for 50ml (Available Nationwide).

What they say: Velvet Hour evokes that brief, precious moment as dusk settles and the air is electrified with every possibility. Bringing this Velvet Hour to life, the scent is a mysterious, intriguing and rich woody floral. Ultra-sophisticated, elegant, stylish and modern, the bottle is the reflection of Kate’s timeless and intriguing glamour.

What we say: It’s not often that we see blue fragrances, but Kate Moss’ latest scent is just that. The perfume is contained in an intricate clear bottle, with a navy blue jeweled lid.

The Results: I’m not usually a fan of celebrity fragrances, so was surprised to find a fragrance that smelt so complex and unique. Initially, it smelt fresh and fairly light – it actually reminded me of the scent of rainy summer nights. After a few minutes, deeper woody notes started to appear and it smelt spicy, peppery, yet sweet on my skin. That’s the way it stayed and I really loved it. It’s a fun and very sexy scent – I’d wear this if I was heading out with the girls on a night out. It has great staying power too – I could still smell it on my skin when I got home in the small hours of the morning, which is impressive for an Eau de Toilette.

Best for: A girls’ night out

STELLA IN TWO PEONY, £51 for 75ml (01444 255700)

What they say: The journey begins with a rose, that most eternal of flowers. But it is pink peony that forms the root of the experience, the primal rose that gleams with the freshness of morning light. Stella In Two Peony sparkles with the first breeze of the floral scent spiced up with black pepper. Patchouli, cedar wood and a hint of amber anchor the scent, adding a more masculine tone.
What we say: The perfect balance between the ultra-feminine and the ultra-fashionable. Stella in Two is presented in an opaque pink square bottle, within pretty pink packaging. The corner of the bottle slides off to reveal the spray.
The Results: This perfume smells like it looks – light, sweet, and incredibly pretty. I felt very girly spraying it onto my wrists and instantly felt the urge to change into my favourite dress and high-heels! I could definitely detect roses, but there were deep spicy notes in there too. It was so addictive, that I found myself spraying it onto my wrists even when I was home alone. This perfume is definitely more about pleasing yourself than anybody else. It’s quite light, so probably wouldn’t work on a big night out, but is the perfect scent for a romantic night in with your Valentine!
Best for: A romantic candle-light dinner at home