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Archive January 2009

 

Tried & Tested: BLUSHERS (30.01.09)
Add a little colour to your dressing table this winter, with a blusher that will perk up your complexion, highlight your cheekbones, and add a healthy glow.
We’ve tested six of the best.

CHANEL BLUSH DUO TWEED EFFECT, £29 (0207 4933836).
First impressions: A chic black compact, containing a tweed-effect blusher inspired by the designs of Chanel. Pale pink, rose pink, and a hint of gold combine to create a flattering shimmering blush. A thick applicator brush and mirror are included in the compact.
The Results: There’s something very luxurious about this blusher – it’s worth buying for it’s looks alone and would make a gorgeous gift. I felt loathed to run the brush across the tweed-style blusher, as I didn’t want to ruin it! The texture is quite powdery and a few sweeps across the blusher are all that is needed to load the brush. The effect is quite subtle, so I reloaded a couple of times for each cheekbone. I have pale skin and loved the natural flush it gave my cheeks. I couldn’t really notice the gold shimmer, but I think it would add a glow to darker skins.
Best for: Luxury Choice

CLINIQUE QUICK BLUSH IN HURRY HONEY, £20.56 (www.clinique.co.uk)
First impressions: A round, mirrored tube that twists open to reveal an applicator brush at one end and the blusher at the other. The blusher has a flattering peach tone, which delivers a wash of colour and subtle scattering of shimmer. No mirror.
The Results: I’ve had a few disasters with smashed blushers in the past – the lining of my handbag and my bedroom carpet are proof of that! It’s put me off using one regularly, so I was really pleased when I was given this product to test. To use it, you twist the tube and then pop off the lid to reveal the ready-loaded brush. I found that I needed to twist quite a few times to have enough product on the brush, but I was soon able to sweep it over my skin. I have a dark olive complexion, which suited this blusher perfectly. The colour is rich, yet the touch of shimmer serves to tone it down.
Best for: Mess-free application

DIOR GLOWING COLOUR POWDER BLUSH IN ROSE LUCKY/LUCKY PINK, £25 (0207 216 0216)
First impressions: A stylish navy blue compact, complete with a thin applicator brush and mirror. The blusher comes in two shades – pale pink and candy pink. Both have an embossed design and flattering sheen to highlight cheekbones.
The Results: This product contains two different shades of blusher, which can be worn together or apart. The first shade, a pale pink, has a slight sheen and is much subtler than it appears in the compact. My skin is dark and it worked brilliantly at delicately highlighting my cheekbones. The other shade is slightly brighter and gives cheeks a touch of colour – I’m keen to follow the catwalks this season and make my makeup brighter, so I’ll be using this shade a lot. On days when I want a more natural look, I’ve been wearing the colours together. I found that the blusher has great staying-power too – I often apply blusher and find it quickly disappears, but that definitely isn’t the case with this compact. I totally recommend it.
Best for: Versatility

PAULA DORF CHEEK COLOUR CREAM IN PEEK A BOO, £17 (www.myvanitycase.co.uk)
First impressions: A small pot, which twists open to reveal a generous round of blusher. The texture is creamy and it works best when blended onto cheekbones with a finger. No mirror.
The Results: Setting eyes on this pot of coral-pink blusher was a bit daunting, as I was convinced it was too bright for my skin tone. But in the name of beauty, I persevered! The texture felt like a lip balm – soft, creamy, and easy to pick up on my finger. I started with a small amount and worked it into my cheekbones – it was really easy to blend into the skin. I’m really impressed with the results. My complexion suddenly had a bit of colour, but the effect was really natural - I looked like I’d just come back from a brisk walk on a cold day. I can wholeheartedly recommend it to people who are scared about adding blusher to their makeup bag – it’s so easy to control the amount you apply and gives a really natural-looking flush.
Best for: A natural look.

LANCÔME GENTLE AND LONG-LASTING POWDER BLUSHER IN HIGHLIGHTING ROSE, £22.95 (www.lancome.co.uk)
First impressions: A sleek black compact, containing a candy pink blusher embossed with the signature Lancôme rose. A thin brush and wide mirror are included in the compact.
The Results: I have very pale skin and tend to avoid using blushers, for fear of ending up looking like a clown. I was relieved to open the thin black compact and discover a subtle shimmering pink. I never really know exactly where to apply blusher, but the size of the brush made it very easy. It’s wide and very thin, so I simply traced my cheekbone in an upward movement and the blusher ended up in exactly the right place. My skin suddenly had a lovely glow and I noticed my cheekbones shimmering every time I caught myself in a mirror. It’s become a crucial part of my makeup routine.
Best for: Highlighting

YVES SAINT LAURENT PALETTE D’ARTISTE FOR COMPLEXION, £33 (01444 255700)
First impressions: A gold compact, containing an eye-catching stripy palette of pink, coral, fawn, and creamy beige face colours. A short wide brush and mirror is included.
The Results: I love wearing bright colours on my skin, so was thrilled to be given this YSL compact to test. The blusher is set out in coloured stripes, with bright pink and trendy coral included. I swept the brush over all four stripes to combine the colours and applied it to my cheeks. The effect isn’t quite as bright as I was expecting, but gives a flattering hint of colour and subtle shimmer. For the second application, I found that I could apply the bright pink (the largest stripe in the palette) on its own, which made the result more vivid. This compact would be a gorgeous addition to any dressing table.
Best for: Fans of bright colours

 

Breaking News: Wahanda offers 10% off their signature gift vouchers (30.01.09)
Tired of trawling the shops looking for the perfect Valentine’s Day gift? Sick of corny messages emblazoned on heart-covered cards? Dreading being a singleton on February 14th? Fear not, because we’ve found the solution to all your Valentine’s Day woes, and it comes in the form of Wahanda – an online spa, beauty and wellness site that offers a delectable range of pamper packages. What’s more, they’re giving the-beauty-pages.com readers a show-stopping 10% off all of their Wahanda gift vouchers, so you can snap-up a seriously good beauty bargain for less.
Available in denominations from £25 to £200, these beautiful pamper passes can be spent at hundreds of locations across the country. From spas to salons, fitness centres to wellness studios, they’re the perfect excuse to treat yourself - or someone special to a spot of self-indulgence. And if you’re looking for inspiration on what to splash out on, there are plenty of spa days, yoga retreats, bikini bootcamps, men-only offers and dreamy destination getaways to choose from. There’s even a special Valentine’s Day page on the site, so if you want to go one step further and spoil your loved one rotten, make sure you check out their 2-for-1 deals, couples treatments and specially tailored Valentine’s Day gifts for men and women – you can even buy someone a massage lesson for two. Or, if you’re a free agent and are planning to get as far away from all the slushy stuff as possible, look out for their mobile therapist packages where you can get treated to a pamper session in the comfort of your own home – they even bring chocolate and Champers – what more could you ask for?
To make the most of Wahanda’s 10% discount, visit www.wahanda.com/the-wahanda-gift-voucher, select the voucher you want to buy, and then enter the discount code –BEAUTYPAGES at checkout. You can use the code more than once and the code will be valid until 30.06.09.

Spas & Treatments: CHAMPNEYS FOREST MERE, HAMPSHIRE (30.01.09)
Location: Champneys Forest Mere, Liphook, Hampshire GU30 7JQ. 08703 300300. www.champneys.com
Facilities: The approach to Forest Mere is impressive – the driveway slowly winds you past a vast natural lake, set against a breathtaking backdrop of natural woodland. The building was originally a hunting lodge, but the vibe today is far more contemporary. Wellies and Barbour jackets are out – fluffy white robes and slippers are in. You’ll notice guests padding around in their dressing gowns from the off, as they make their way to an activity class, return from a relaxing treatment, or lounge around the reception area sipping herbal tea and leafing through the morning’s papers. The spa facilities are extensive (there’s certainly a reason why Forest Mere was acclaimed Spa of the Year two year’s running…) and include a stunning 25-metre swimming pool overlooking the grounds, an outdoor pool for finer days, a large Jacuzzi, a sauna, a steam room, an icy-cool plunge pool, a thalasso therapy pool, a mud chamber, and 42 luxurious treatment rooms. Whether you choose to visit for relaxation or exercise, you’ll definitely be looking forward to hitting the sack at the end of the day and the bedrooms offer every comfort you could wish for – huge beds, TVs, DVDs, a bath with Champneys products on the side, glossy magazines, and a selection of tempting teas and coffees. And when it comes to meal times, you certainly wont go hungry. The emphasis is on healthy yet fulfilling food – typical plates will include grilled chicken, a large salad buffet, stuffed baked potatoes, fish, and plenty of fruit. You will leave Champneys feeling far healthier, wholly relaxed, and ready again to face the outside world.
Ambience: I arrived at Forest Mere on a Saturday afternoon – you’d think perhaps the busiest time, yet I was instantly struck by how peaceful the place felt. It wasn’t silent, yet felt wonderfully calming and relaxed. There were certain aspects that reminded me that the spa is part of the far larger Champneys machine (the gift shop, adverts to invest in their new Marbella complex, and tempting special offers posted up at every turn), yet that didn’t deflect from the staff’s warm and very personal approach to guests. At meal times, I noticed family groups with three generations sitting around the table together – I can certainly understand why they chose Forest Mere for their special break. I will definitely be back – and next time, I might even drag along the rest of the family.
Treatment Tested:
 Champneys Collection Moisture Miracle Facial, £65 for 55 minutes. After a discussion with my therapist about my current skincare routine, she sprayed some relaxing pillow mist onto the heated treatment bed and invited me to lie down. With relaxing music filling the room, she began the facial by working a deliciously-creamy cleanser over the skin, then removing it with an equally luxurious toner. After a thorough exfoliation, she applied a face mask and moved onto a relaxing massage of my shoulders, neck, arms, and hands. I was very close to nodding off, when finally it was time to remove the mask and finish with a generous application of moisturising cream, eye cream, and lip balm. My skin felt wonderful afterwards – far softer, smoother, and plumper-looking.
Two-night spring breaks start at just £199 per person, including all meals and at least one treatment. Visit www.champneys.co.uk for details of other promotions.

Blog: GERALDINE HOWARD – CO-FOUNDER OF AROMATHERAPY ASSOCIATES – BLOGS ABOUT LUXURY SOLUTIONS TO WINTER BUGS (30.01.09)
“We breathe about 20,000 times a day and, each time, we take in dust and other airborne contaminants, which is why supporting your body’s natural defenses is one of the most effective things you can do to feel strong and healthy. Changing environments, from heated buildings to the cold outdoors, and being surrounded by bugs and germs can easily contribute to the onset of a cold and a stuffy head, particularly true when you are feeling stressed and have a tired immune system.
For centuries, essential oils have been renowned for their natural healing powers. As an aromatherapy practitioner for over 35 years, I have seen first hand how effective these oils can be when used in the right way, helping to improve our physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Essential oils are made up of very small molecules, which means they can easily enter the blood stream, bringing their unique healing properties to every cell of the body to help ease muscular aches and pains, improve circulation and ease sinus congestion for example.
In the winter I find the therapeutic benefits of anti-bacterial and anti-viral eucalyptus, pine and tea tree essential oils are really helpful. Found in our Support Breathe Essence, this is an ideal on-the-spot relief for colds and stuffy sinuses, as well as helping to boost the immune system. I suggest inhaling regularly when onboard aeroplanes, buses, tube and trains to help ward off unwanted viruses and to keep a clear head. This tiny bottle is perfectly sized for handbags and briefcases - when on the go, add 2-3 drops to a tissue and inhale deeply, or keep it by your desk and add a few drops to an electric burner or a bowl of hot water. Alternatively, to soak in a bath of our Support Breathe Bath & Shower Oil is really helpful when feeling full of cold. This blend is also packed with nature’s most cleansing essential oils, helping to clear the head, nose and chest, and ease ‘fluey’ aches and pains. Use in the bath before going to bed and, in morning, massage the oil into your chest before stepping into the shower. Once in the shower, it's like experiencing your own steam inhalation and the long lasting effects can stay with you all day.”

 

Feature: EXTREME BEAUTY (30.01.09)
Weird and wonderful beauty was once an underground trend but it’s now going mainstream. We discover why human placenta, snake venom, nightingale droppings and other revolutionary ingredients have made it onto the beauty counters…

SNAKE VENOM
First it was Botox and now a less conventional ingredient, synthetic snake venom AKA Syn-ake, is making waves on the anti-wrinkle scene. This anti-ageing ingredient mimics the effect of a Temple Viper’s snakebite and is perfect if you’re petrified of needles.
When applied to the face it gently paralyses the facial muscles and the result is as if stunned by a reptile. You’ll see fine lines and wrinkles diminished almost instantly and, unlike Botox, your face will still move naturally.
The Glitterati clocked this age-defying remedy several years ago but, after further scientific study and interest, it’s now quite a common anti-wrinkle ingredient.
Syence was one of the first laboratories to incorporate Syn-ake in its Skin Venom Memory Cream, £180 (www.syence.com). It works by changing your skin’s memory - the skin’s inclination to always wrinkle in the same place when you laugh, smile or frown - thus reducing the depth of wrinkles and forcing your skin to wrinkle in different places than before.
If you’d rather use a serum than a cream, then Crystal Clear’s Intense Anti-Ageing Serum, £60 (www.crystalclear.co.uk), is equally effective in combating those pesky tell-tale signs of ageing. This face-tightening serum also contains the magic ingredient and promises a younger, firmer and smoother complexion.
For the very latest in snake venom innovation check out Dianne Brill’s debut skincare line, from £17, exclusive to Harvey Nichols (0207 235 500). The former model and muse has drawn inspiration from the Garden of Eden and produced the beautifully packaged ‘Still and Fill’ range. It contains a cocktail of Swiss Apples and the Essence of Simulated Temple Snake Venom, which work together to plump up skin, smooth out lines and give a gentle facelift. And with nine lotions and potions to choose from, are you tempted yet?

EMU OIL
Ever tried smothering your feet in Emu oil? Well it’s about time you did. Regardless of whether you’re a barefoot hippie or a stalwart stiletto wearer everyone deserves to have beautiful looking feet and Emu oil is just the ticket.
This dry oil is a completely organic and natural bi-product and has been used by the Australian Aborigines for thousands of years. Unlike most other foot balms, which sit on the skin and leave your feet feeling waxy, Emu oil soaks straight into the skin without blocking the pores. The beauty benefits are endless and it’s also an anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and when applied to skin it has the same irritant value as water.
In the UK it’s championed by Margaret Dabbs, podiatrist to the stars. Dabbs has always used Emu oil in her salons and it was only when her clients asked to take some of her miracle moisturiser home with them that she decided to develop an entire foot care range based around it.
Charged as the pioneer of beauty makeovers for feet, Dabbs’ award winning Intensive Hydrating Foot Lotion, £25 (www.margaretdabbs.co.uk), will effortlessly transform dull-looking paws into radiant feet. Even after one application the results are immediate. The blend of Emu oil and lemon myrtle helps to strengthen and repair the skin cells, which improves both the skin tone and texture whilst balancing the foot’s moisture levels. Et voila! The only problem is that those top notch tootsies look too good to be hidden in heels!
Margaret Dabbs, 7 New Cavendish Street, London W1G 8UU; 020 7487 5510

HUMAN SEMEN/ SPERMINE
Menfolk like to extol the virtues of their semen and having read about Skinscience’s technological advancements - which according to several sources incorporates men’s bodily fluids in its anti-ageing skincare collection – we are willing to concede that they might be onto something…
However, it’s not entirely true. Spermine, which is frequently confused with being sperm or semen, is in fact a powerful antioxidant crystal, - and although it’s present in seminal fluids, it is also found in all human body cells too.
Developed in Norway, Spermine has been scientifically proven to delay the ageing process and is the key active ingredient in the Skinscience Anti-Ageing programme.
The five-product line-up claims to have 25 times the antioxidising power of vitamin E and is both fat and water soluble. The daily regime of the anti-ageing cream, serum and eye cream are all said to protect the skin against free radicals, but it’s the Skincience Anti-ageing Ampoule Treatment, £65 (01280 824 446; www.appearanceskincare.co.uk) that sounds like it means business. Recommended as a week-long treatment for your face, neck and décolleté following an invasive treatment, such as a chemical peel or dermabrasion, the unique combination of Spermine, vitamin C, E and B5 promises to instantly calm and protect the skin from cell damage and premature ageing, i.e. leaving you wrinkle-free.
Available in the UK from February 2009
Appearance Skincare, Stowe Castle Business Park, Stowe, Buckingham MK18 5AB; 01280 824 446; www.appearanceskincare.co.uk

HUMAN PLACENTA
Birth, pregnancy and specifically placentas have long intrigued scientists and nutritionists, but now the beauty buffs have got in on the act.
Well documented as a good source of nutrients, we’ve heard of people devouring placentas, but strangely enough never considered rubbing one onto our skin. But EMK Placental has.
Dubbed as the “Beverly Hills Skin Care Secret,” the US brand has cultivated a highly successful anti-ageing formula using human placenta. Apparently, placenta protein prevents the loss of collagen and elastin, slows down the ageing process, and is therefore recommended for sun damaged, acne-prone and ageing skin.
A far cry from the more traditional creams, EMK’s concoctions have caused a stir Stateside and for those of you who are on the quest for the elixir of eternal youth this range sounds promising.
The Texal Face Mask, $45 (www.emkplacental.com) pays homage to Hannibal Lector’s face furniture. Hailed as a non-surgical facelift this gauze mask is also designed to give dehydrated, lacklustre skin an instant radiance boost. And because it doesn’t leave a film of grease afterwards, men are allegedly queuing up for it. In fact if you take a peep at the website you’ll see Simon Cowell’s taut, wrinkle-free face staring back at you.
www.emkplacental.com

COW’S CALVING MILK/COLOSTRUM
We’re quite partial to a milky cleanser, but the thought of applying cow’s calving milk onto our faces doesn’t seem tempting. It might be time for a rethink.
Vilact Hudcreme met Aktiv Ramaelk (Skin Lotion with Active First Milk) £25 for 150 ml (www.vilact.dk) by Dutch brand Nanoko, contains cow’s “first” milk or Colostrum and is most effective for irritable skin complaints such as psoriasis, eczema as well as soothing burns and stretch marks. While the same formula in Lip Lotion form, £9.95 for 30ml, claims to heal cracked lips and prevent cold sores.
Apparently it’s the talk of the town on Russian Psoriasis Forums and London-based Russians are snapping it up like gold dust, so it’s only a matter of time before it reaches our shores (at the moment it can only be bought online).
An unusual ingredient perhaps, but Colostrum is scientifically viable as an anti-ageing agent; rich in nutrients and enzymes it’s a life-saving ingredient for new born calves and it’s also 40 times more powerful than human Colostrum.
Scientifically proven to destroy viruses in infected blood cells as well as increase the immunity in human blood cells, it is regarded by the science cognoscenti as nature’s white gold.
Jam-packed with vitamins, minerals and amino acids too it also acts as an anti-ageing agent when combined with almond oil, shea butter, aloe vera, bees' wax and vitamin E. A complex mêlée of natural ingredients this paraben-free, odourless cream is destined to become a sure-fire hit with the Brits too. Watch this space.
www.vilact.dk

NIGHTINGALE DROPPINGS
The sheer thought of smearing faeces (human or beast) on our faces seems fundamentally wrong, but the songbird’s delicate droppings have been used in Geisha beauty rituals for centuries. Have you ever seen a Geisha girl with acne? There has to be something in it, especially if the Beckhams indulge.
Originally used by Korean royalty 1,000 years ago, the Japanese uncovered its beauty properties in the Edo era. Kabukan Actors and Geishas of the time often struggled to remove their stage makeup and they discovered that nightingale droppings did the job. Rich in guanine, an amino acid which is renowned for softening and bleaching skin, it became an overnight success with even Japanese monks queuing up to polish their bald heads with it!
Now a cult beauty buy, we were intrigued to find out what all the hype is about.
Nightingale Droppings, $17.99 (www.chidoriyaworld.com), come all the way from Japan, and are presented in a kitsch little bottle covered in kooky cartoon flowers. Don’t imagine a cascade of tiny droppings falling into your palms – the texture is more like a mould of grey powder. The product has a faint musty odour, but it’s inoffensive.
The powder needs to be missed with a few drops of water to create a paste, before being applied to a moist face and neck. And the results? Skin becomes noticeably softer, clearer, and smoother – but we wouldn’t blame you if you wanted to stick with the moisturising cream.

 

Spa Review: SPA6, FOUR PILLARS HOTEL, COTSWOLDS WATER PARK (23.01.09)
Location: Lake 6, Spine Road East, South Cerney, Gloucestershire 
GL7 5FP. 01285 864000. www.cotswoldwaterparkhotel.co.uk.
Facilities: Despite being only 18 months old, SPA6 has already been shortlisted for Spa of the Year and it’s well deserved. The luxurious retreat is based at the stylish Four Pillars hotel, in close proximity to both Cirencester and Swindon. The backdrop is idyllic, with 55 acres of unspoilt Cotswolds parkland on its doorstep to explore - if you can bear to step out of your fluffy slippers. The hotel has a strong focus on natural light and glass, with an open plan design to make the most of those fabulous views. The spa itself is just as stunning - Balinese decor welcomes you on arrival, with the scent of Patchouli and Ylang Ylang inviting you into the realms of relaxation. The lighting is low, with neon splashes throughout to give the spa a stylish contemporary feel. There are seven treatment rooms, which ooze sophistication and class. One is designed specifically for couples, making this the ideal escape for partners in need of a little pampering. At the end of a hard day’s pampering, it will be time to make your way to the ultra-comfortable hotel room, where any remaining stresses and strains will melt away. Dinner is served in the Lakeside restaurant, which boasts unrivalled views across the Cotswolds lakes and a sumptuous menu of Mediterranean fusion cuisine.
Ambience: Walk into SPA6 and you are instantly put at ease. It feels incredibly friendly and relaxed, with staff that are both accommodating and attentive. In the spa, it’s clear that the therapists truly believe in the art of holistic therapies. Natalia, my therapist, offered just the right amount of conversation before allowing me to drift off into sheer bliss.
Treatment Tested:
Decléor Aroma Back Relief Massage, £45 for 25 minutes. The treatment began by taking three deep breaths to regulate the breathing and ensure that the oxygen passes to all the muscles before they are stimulated during the massage process. My therapist then used a combination of both firm pressure point techniques and softer manipulations to ease the tension from my tight shoulders. I soon felt my shoulders loosen as the aromatherapy oils soothed my skin. In just 25 minutes, I went from being a contender for intensive osteopathy to being in a state of sheer bliss.
Decléor Aroma “Time Precious” Facial, £45 for 25 minutes. The Decléor range is plant-based and the soothing aromatherapy oils injected much-needed hydration into my parched skin. Combined with the soothing effects of a shoulder and face massage, I found myself drifting off almost immediately, leaving the therapist to cleanse, tone, exfoliate and moisturise my skin. To ease myself slowly back into reality, I was then invited to spend time in the stunning relaxation room.
Overnight spa breaks at Four Pillars start at £132 for two people, including bed, breakfast, full use of Spa 6 facilities, and one 30-minute treatment per person.

BLOG: PENHALIGON’S ALEX MUSGRAVE DISCUSSES THE EMOTIVE POWER OF FRAGRANCE (23.01.09)
As a Business Manager for Penhaligon’s, the niche fragrance house founded by William H. Penhaligon in the 1870s, I run the busy Edinburgh store & also train staff across the brand in romancing the fragrances. The Edinburgh boutique nestles in the heart of the city centre on George Street. I walk to work through iconic Georgian architecture that still echoes with the city’s political and cultural past.
The boutique is well established and successful. A loyal clientele of fragrance and luxury lovers have supported us over the years, even during the recent economic rough and tumble. Good retail is all about trust - I want to find the right Penhaligon’s scent for my clients. I understand the emotive power of fragrance. It should never be underestimated or dismissed as trivial. It is part of my everyday armour or weaponry, depending on my state of mind! I have a wardrobe of scents: a lick of vanilla for bed, lemon groves & crushed herbs for summer nights, a flash of muted musk as you hit a crowded room. Or something odd, just beyond description that touches the senses & makes those around you just stop for a moment and wonder who you are.
I am mercurial in my scent-shifting, searching for innovation and seeking respite in classicism. As I get older, my tastes have deepened and have also oddly become just a little frothy too. I have a passion just now for Gucci Rush with its compulsive hairspray and peardrop plasticity! As Penhaligon’s looks to next year and the development of new fragrance gold and the revisiting of our rich archival heritage, I have been indulging in two quite different scented strands. I have been looking at how chocolate is used by high street and niche houses. When I tire of the sweetness, I immerse myself in the great classics of the 20s and 30s, wrapping myself in the poignancy of powder & aldehydes, the scents of the Jazz Age. All this reminds me of Penhaligon’s place in this richly scented timeline. Our recent launch, Elixir, an evocative take on incense with vanilla, eucalyptus and rose sold out in our stores. It was developed as a modern scent in its own right, but also to reference and echo Hammam Bouquet, our first scent from 1872. Continuity and innovation. Next year we will move forward again.
No matter how the world spins around me, if you are walking in Edinburgh, and pass me by I will always be heavenly scented be it Penhaligon’s carnal Lily and Spice or our church and velvet Elixir, Il Profumo’s Chocolat Amere, the sexy vanilla rubber of Bulgari Black, Guerlain’s melancholy L’Heure Bleue …or maybe Caron’s shocking Tabac Blond. It all just depends on my mood.

Breaking News: CLARINS LAUNCHES SPRING ‘NATURE TEMPTATION’ COLLECTION (23.01.09)
You might notice the beauty counters getting a lot more colourful over coming weeks, with the arrival of the much-anticipated spring collections. For us, one of the most exciting launches this season is the ‘Nature Temptation’ collection by Clarins – and it goes onto shelves this coming Monday. Make a firm note in your diary to get down to your nearest counter – there’s no better way to banish the January blues…
Highlights of the vibrant collection include a stunning Limited Edition Eye Colour Palette with flowers embossed into the powder (pictured, £27.41), an Iris Blue Eye Colour that adds a pop of colour to the darkest days (£12.73), and a Raspberry Powder Blush, which flatters every skin tone (£20.54).
Thibault Vabre, Artistic Director for Clarins, explains the inspiration behind the tempting collection – ‘This Spring, it’s time to break with the idea of a natural look for day and be bold and inventive in daylight. Contrast a fresh, natural-looking complexion and soft dewy lips with temptress eyes in this season’s striking blues’.
The collection will be available onine and at Clarins counters nationwide from Monday (26th). Visit http://uk.clarins.com.

Breaking News: DOVE RELEASES INTUITION – A FASCINATING SHORT FILM EXPLORING FIRST IMPRESSIONS (23.01.09)
Have you ever wondered how other women perceive you? If so, you need to log onto Dove’s website to watch the fascinating short film ‘Intuition’. British film maker Pinny Grylls has worked collaboratively with the brand to produce the film, which explores how women will rightly or wrongly make assumptions about another person’s life.
During the three-minute film, a selection of women – with different ages, skin tones, and makeup – are asked to give opinions on each other based on looks alone. The accounts are fascinatingly – totally honest and unexpectedly varied. The highlight of the film is the end, when each woman reveals a little about herself – the truth might just surprise you.
The-Beauty-Pages.com highly recommends Intuition. Watch it in your lunch break by clicking on this link - http://www.dove.co.uk/intuition

Tried & Tested: MINERAL FOUNDATION (23.01.09)
Mineral Makeup is one of the biggest trends in beauty right now, with brand after brand introducing a line to their collections. It’s completely natural, highly effective, and does wonders for your skin.
We’ve tested six mineral foundations.

BAREMINERALS SPF15 FOUNDATION, £17.50 (0870 850 6655)
What they say: Our bareMinerals SPF 15 Foundation looks like a powder—yet it's NOT a powder. It feels like a cream and buffs on like silk, giving skin a natural luminosity that stays true all day. The foundation provides impeccable coverage for every skin type and skin tone, and also protects with a natural SPF 15 broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection.
What we say: A smooth loose powder, which is applied with a soft round brush. The foundation is 100% minerals, made entirely from crushed minerals from the earth. The pot is small, but a little goes a long way. No mirror and the brush needs to be purchased separately.
The Results: After Christmas, my skin started to look dull and spotty – the more foundation I piled on, the worse the problem got. I was recommended this foundation by a friend – she told me that it was so pure I could even sleep in it. The fact that it’s 100% natural sounded great, but I was worried it would only offer light coverage. As soon as I started using it, however, I was completely hooked. My skin looked like I was wearing a veil of foundation, yet it felt light and makeup-free. I’ve been wearing it every day for a month and friends are commenting on how good my skin is looking. My only advise would be to make sure you moisturise well before applying the powder, as it can build up a bit in dry patches.
Best for: Problem skin

BY TERRY LIGHT-EXPERT COMPACT MINERAL FOUNDATION BRUSH, £38 (SPACE NK NATIONWIDE)
What they say: Light and silky, the ultra-fine texture of this foundation leaves a powdery and ultra-smoothing micro-mesh on the skin, visibly smoothing out wrinkles, fine lines, imperfections, and filling hollows with a matifying light - leaving absolutely no sense of tautness.
What we say: Small purple compact, containing an inbuilt brush and handy mirror. The lid is unscrewed to reveal a solid foundation, which is 100% mineral talc.
The Results: I have oily skin, which tends to look shiny after just a few hours of wearing foundation. I stick to pressed powders, which I can carry around in my handbag to reapply throughout the day. This compact looks so stylish and the inbuilt brush makes it really easy to apply on the go. I really enjoyed applying it – the brush is firm and gives the face a mini-massage as you apply. The foundation left my face feeling light and silky smooth. My complexion looks even and impressively matte. I’m impressed with how well my skin is responding to wearing mineral makeup – I wouldn’t describe it as ‘normal’, but it definitely feels less oily than it used to be.
Best for: Oily skin

DANIEL SANDLER SUPER MINERAL MAKEUP, £21 (www.beautique.com)
What they say: An ever-so-sheer, oil-free, mineral-based, dewy-finish makeup that moisturises and protects with SPF15, helping skin appear younger and more radiant.
What we say: A stylish bottle with a chrome lid, containing a fluid foundation. A pump applicator, which delivers the perfect amount onto fingers. A lightweight, non-greasy texture.
The Results: When I was asked to test a mineral foundation, I was expecting to be handed a loose powder and brush. Getting a liquid foundation was a happy surprise – I’m in my late 40s and powders tend to stick in the lines around my eyes and mouth, which makes me look older than I really am. I loved the silky texture and was really impressed with how easy it was to blend over my skin. It gives the complexion a lovely even-tone, yet it’s so light that skin looks makeup-free. The best bit, however, was the glow it gave my skin – I looked instantly younger and more radiant. I’d buy this product anyway – the fact that it’s mineral-based is just an added bonus.
Best for: Mature skin

ELF MINERAL FOUNDATION SPF 15, £3.50 (www.eyeslipsface.co.uk)
What they say: Discover what nature intended, pure beauty without chemical additives. Let your skin breathe with weightless natural mineral makeup, for a beautiful experience you can see!
What we say: A pot of lightweight loose powder, which is applied by a round brush (to be purchased separately for £3.50). 100% mineral based.
The Results: I had to look twice when I saw the price of this product – I can’t believe it only costs £3.50. I wasn’t expecting it to be very high quality, but was pleasantly surprised when I brushed the super-soft powder over my skin. It glides smoothly and gives an impressive level of coverage. I did notice it becoming a little too thick in areas where I hadn’t moisturised, such as my chin and nose, so would recommend using a lightweight cream on those areas if you don’t usually do so. I didn’t need to use concealer afterwards, which I usually apply underneath my eyes and on the odd blemish – my skin looks even-toned and very natural. This is the perfect introduction to mineral makeup, I’d really recommend giving it a go.
Best for: Smaller budgets

PIXI VELVET MINERAL POWDER, £28 (0207 287 7211)
What they say: This unique powder looks and feels like skin. It contains an innovative mix of powder and mica that creates a younger appearance as it deflects light away from fine lines.
What we say: A chunky pearlescent compact, containing a pressed mineral powder and a handy mirror. A sponge applicator is tucked behind the mirror.
The Results: This foundation comes in the form of a pressed powder – great news for my handbag, as I’ve had a few messy accidents with loose powder in the past. I have quite a bit of sun damage on my skin, which requires an effective product to cover it. This powder isn’t quite heavy enough on its own, but works brilliantly on top of my usual foundation. It feels very light and silky as it is goes onto the face and gives a natural-looking matte finish. It has great staying power too – I kept it in my bag and didn’t need to reapply until lunchtime. Typically with pressed powders, it should last a long time before I need to replace it, making it a sound investment for my makeup bag,
Best for: Applying over foundation

MARKS & SPENCER AUTOGRAPH MINERALS FACE POWDER, £15 (0845 302 1234)
What they say: A lightweight, illuminating, 100% mineral face powder. Contains UVA and UVB filters to protect against sun damage. Designed for all skin types for a natural, healthy and luminous look. Light-diffusing, fragrance and preservative free.
What we say: A generous 18g pot of loose powder with a silky feather-light texture. Application is by a brush, which needs to be purchased separately.
The Results: I’ve fallen in love with this product – it’s the finest face powder I have ever used and feels very luxurious to apply. I have very dry skin, which often looks dull and unhealthy. This powder looks luminous on the skin, instantly smoothing, covering, and highlighting. Forget expensive anti-ageing creams – I’m happy to simply apply this every day, as my wrinkles appear completely disguised. The powder looks great at any time of day, but I’d especially recommend it for the evening, as it adds a lovely glow to the skin. It’s brilliant value, as the pot is large and will last a good few months of use.
Best for: Adding radiance

 

Feature: SEVENTIES SEX KITTEN (23.01.09)
Take a hint from Gucci’s Spring/Summer 09, with 70’s inspired electric blue eyes, nude glossy lips, bold eyebrows, and shiny hair. Polished, yet playful – it’s the perfect antidote to the January blues.

SEX GODDESS HAIR
The Look: This season, hair needs to boast the perfect balance between looking tousled and tamed. Sleeker than a dishevelled bed-head barnet, but not so polished that it looks untouchable. Think super shiny, but with lots of bounce and movement - and remember it’s all in the preparation.
How to get it: Apply Shu Uemura Art of Hair Silk Oil Camellia Soothing Fluid (£18) to just-washed, wet hair and comb through. Take care to apply only to the mid-length and ends of the hair. Next, rough blow-dry with your head upside down to create volume. Then continue blow-drying in sections, using a large barrel brush to create smooth waves. A deep side parting that allows the hair to fall provocatively over one eye gives a Veronica Lake effect. If you have very curly, frizzy or unruly hair try investing in a hair treatment such as Hersheson’s Permanent Blow Dry (from £200) which will leave your locks looking salon-perfect for up to three months.
The Details: Shu Uemura Art of Hair Silk Oil Camellia Soothing Fluid, £18 (0800 633 5021)
Hersheson’s Permanent Blow Dry at Daniel Hersheson, 45 Conduit Street, London (www.danielhersheson.com)

SUPERNATURAL SKIN
The Look: Chloe, Burberry, Roberto Cavalli, and of course Gucci, highlighted the trend this season for perfectly fresh-faced skin, showcasing almost supernaturally perfect complexions.
How to get it: To banish dull, lacklustre skin, start by prepping your skin with an indulgent facial. Amanda Lacey offers signature facials (from £130) that use renowned facial massage techniques to plump up the face, boost circulation and banish fine lines. Using natural oils to boost radiance you’ll be left gorgeously glowing. Alternatively the Organic Pharmacy’s Signature Facial (£100 for 90 mins) focuses on skin analysis, expert advice and natural products that won’t irritate the skin.
Moisture is the key to keeping your skin looking youthful, so it makes sense to switch to a slightly richer cream at this time of year. Try Gold Rescue Cream (£95) from cult Hungarian brand Omorovicza. It contains a cocktail of skin-savers, such as peptides, vitamins, elastin and Omega 6 to encourage elasticity and smooth fine lines. Finally use a smoothing eye cream like Olay's fantastic Definity Eye Illuminator (£24.99) for a wide-awake look.
The Details: Amanda Lacey, 46 Walton Street, London, SW3 (020 7584 0500 or www.amandalacey.com)
The Organic Pharmacy (020 7836 3923 or www.theorganicpharmacy.com)
Omorovicza Gold Rescue Cream, £95 (0207 734 1234)
Olay Definity Eye Illuminator, £24.99 (www.boots.com)

MOODY BLUE EYES
The Look: High-voltage, 70’s screen-siren eyes are the focus of this look. Up the ante with aquamarine, electric blue and turquoise shadows.
How to get it: Use a bright, jewel shade such as MAC Eye Shadow in Electric Eel or Clarity (£9.79) and take the colour all the way up to the brows for a dose of Pop-Art inspired cool. On the catwalk, the models’ wore varying shades from baby blue to sea green, or dusky plum for a cartoon effect. If you prefer a softly softly approach, then try a smoky blue, such as Max Factor Earth Spirits in Stormy Blue (£4.45). Keep the colour dark at the lash line and then blend upwards and outwards towards the brow bone for a smouldering, yet subtle effect.
Next, line the upper and lower lashes with black liner. Aim for a medium to thick line for retro glamour. Use a pencil first, then add a slick of Rimmel Exaggerate Liquid Eye Liner (£4.99) for a glossy effect. A slight flick at the outer corners is essential for feline sex appeal. Finally, smudge a little black pencil under the eyes for a Marianne Faithful vibe.
The Details: Rimmel Exaggerate Liquid Eye Liner £4.99 (www.boots.com)
MAC Eye Shadow £9.79 (www.maccometics.co.uk)
Max Factor Eye Shadow, £4.45 (www.boots.com)

BOLD BROWS
The Look: This Spring, the trend for bold brows shows no signs of abating. Think Brooke Shields in her heyday, or model-of-the-moment Hilary Rhoda.
How to get it: Eyebrows should be thick, but ultra-groomed, so make sure you go for a professional brow shape first. Try not to over pluck, though – in some cases, brows will simply never grow back. Dig out those pictures of yourself at school and aim for a ‘virgin brow’ effect.
If you need to fake it before you make it, try a brow pencil in a slightly lighter colour than your natural hair colour, such as Benefit Dual-Ended Brow Pencil (£12.50). Use the brush end to shape brows and then lightly pencil in. Finally, add a slick of Benefit Speed Brow (£11.50) – a quick-set brow gel that tames unruly hairs, adds a hint of colour and makes for fuller, more defined shape.
The Details: Benefit Dual-Ended Brow Pencil, £12.50 and Benefit Speed Brow, £11.50 (www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk)

FLAWLESS BASE
The Look: A strong eye colour needs a flawless base to steer you out of Club Tropicana territory. Spring/Summer 09 demands skin that should be even and matte, with just a hint of dewiness. This look is part way between last season’s full-on, made-up look and summer’s usual barely-there base.
How to get it: A primer will create an even canvas so that foundation will sit evenly on the skin. For added sun-protection, as well as a fashionably pale effect, try BECCA Mineral SPF Primer (£33). Remember you only need a tiny bit as the formulation is very white – ensure you blend well for a subtle matte result. Next, apply a highlighter to the very top of the cheekbones for a luminous effect. By applying the highlighter under foundation, instead of on top, the look is more polished than princessy. It should mimic the way the light looks as it naturally hits your cheekbones, as opposed to appearing artificial. Finish by smoothing on Chanel Lift Lumiere Fluid Foundation (£34), which smoothes and firms the skin while giving a flawless finish.
The Details: BECCA Mineral SPF Primer £33 (www.beccacosmetics.com)
Chanel Lift Lumiere Fluid Foundation, £34.00 (020 7493 3836)

NUDE LIPS
The Look: Gucci wasn’t the only designer to send models down the catwalk with barely-there lips. The girls at Mathew Williamson, Preen and Peter Som all showed off insouciantly effortless pouts, with plenty of gloss for extra measure.
A word of warning though; nude lips don’t necessarily mean naked lips. Bobbi Brown says, “Nude shades should look like your lips with a bit of added polish, and are infinitely more flattering. What is most important is to make sure that lips are not too light, which can make skin look grey. The most modern way to wear nude lips is with a neutral lip liner and a great gloss – avoid matte colours and dark liners.”
How to get it: Firstly, define the shape by using a creamy-beige lip pencil, which will work wonders for playing up your cupid’s bow. Try Bobbi Brown Lip Liner, (£13.50) in Naked. Keeping the pencil soft, colour in the whole of the lip area to create a base on which your lipstick can stick to. Pick a lip colour that’s one or two shades lighter than your natural lips, anything paler and you’ll only look washed out. The Body Shop Sheer Lip Colour in Sheer Caramel (£9.50) has an expensive-looking sheen that will give you an uptown girl edge.
A slick of Vaseline to finish will look suitably glossy or for a hint of colour try Bobbi Brown Lip Gloss in Pink Beige (£13).
The Details: Bobbi Brown Lip Gloss in Pink Beige, £13, and Bobbi Brown Lip Liner in Naked, £13.50 (www.bobbibrown.co.uk)

 

Tried & Tested: MULTIPURPOSE BALMS (16.09.08)
Dry skin? Parched lips? Headache? Aching muscles? Whatever the complaint, there’s a balm that can help. We’ve tested six products – each a perfect addition to your dressing table.

BURT BEES BEESWAX LIP BALM, £3.49 (JOHN LEWIS STORES NATIONWIDE)
What they say: This natural cult classic helps soothe cracked lips by replenishing moisture. Unlike other lip balms that use petroleum, Burt Bees Lip Balm contains Beeswax, a natural wax made by bees in the cell walls of honeycomb that helps to seal and protect the skin, thus preventing lips becoming dry and chapped.
What we say: A handbag-sized tin, containing a honey-scented balm for lips. Made using Vitamin E, Rosemary Extract, Peppermint oil, coconut oil, comfrey root extract and, of course, Beeswax.
The Results: I’m addicted to applying lipbalm and sometimes wonder whether my lips have become a little reliant on it. A friend, who happens to be a makeup artist, recently recommended switching to a beeswax balm as it would be better for my lips. It’s too early to say whether it’s made a huge difference, but I must admit that my pout has been feeling exceptionally smooth since I started using it. Lips feel instantly hydrated after applying the balm, so it’s a brilliant product for using on cold winter days. I love carrying a tin, rather than a tube – somehow it seems more grown-up and luxurious. My only complaint is that the pot is quite small and would probably only last me about a month – that just shows how much I like it! I’ll be stocking up.
Best for : Dry, chapped lips

BADGER HEADACHE SOOTHER BALM, £5.99 (01827 280080)
What they say: Massage this cooling balm onto temples, neck and forehead. Expect a calming, cooling sensation, silky smooth skin, and a sense of well being,
What we say: A bright yellow balm, with a soothing, relaxing fragrance. The tin is bright and illustrated.
The Results: The first thing I noticed after applying this balm to my pulse points, was a cooling sensation. With my headache pounding away, I found this very soothing. The texture is quite greasy, so I preferred using the balm on my wrists, rather than directly onto temples, but it seemed to work just as well. I loved the fact that the product is made using natural ingredients – organic olive oil, beeswax, and essential oils of lavender, eucalyptus, mandarin, and sandalwood. They combine to create a fragrance that is unique, but incredibly calming and relaxing. I don’t think it beats strong painkillers for effectiveness, but I would strongly recommend it if you are looking for a natural alternative. I love the tin too – it has a fun, retro feel.
Best for: Soothing and relaxing

CLINIQUE TAKE THE DAY OFF CLEANSING BALM, £18.11 (www.clinique.co.uk)
What they Say: This unique and luxuriant new formula transforms from a velvety balm to silky cleansing oil when massaged over skin, sweeping away impurities and easily dissolving tenacious makeup, even those containing sunscreen. Skin is left feeling incredibly soft, fresh, and comfortable.
What we say: A stylish lilac glass and chrome jar, containing a smooth colourless balm. The product has no fragrance.
The Results: I have very sensitive skin, so am very wary about changing my skincare products. The packaging looks very luxurious, so I was expecting to find something rich, creamy, and highly fragranced. Thankfully, I took off the lid to find a silky balm that smelt and looked very natural. As instructed on the jar, I took a little of the product onto my fingers and massaged gently into the skin – this was easy to do, as the solid texture transformed to a light non-greasy oil when it made contact with the skin. I then simply rinsed with warm water and a flannel. The balm is incredibly gentle and a real pleasure to use. The jar should last a while, as a little goes a long way. I’ll definitely continue using it.
Best for: Sensitive skin

DR ROSE AND CO. JOINT AND MUSCLE RUB, £3.99 (01827 280080)
What they say: Massage into aching limbs to soothe your hard-working body after workouts, travel or simply a hard day at the office.
What we say: Valerian, lavender, rosemary, winter green and thyme combine for this joint soothing balm in a hardwearing pocket sized tin.
The Results: I love the vintage-style packaging – it looks like it’s come straight from an old curiosity shop! The scent is much more appealing than other muscle rubs I’ve tried, so I was looking forward to applying it after I’d got home from the gym. The balm feels cool on application and takes around 15 minutes to start loosening muscles – but when it does start working, it’s very effective and I’d highly recommend it. For a small tin, you do need to apply quite a bit to massage it properly into muscles, so I don’t know how long it would last before needing to restock. It’s a great price though, so it would be worth buying a couple of tins at a time.
Best for: Gym bunnies and sporty types

ELIZABETH ARDEN 8 HOUR CREAM, £20 (Elizabeth Arden Counters Nationwide).
What they say: This ultimate multi-tasker works on everything from cracked lips to dry elbows, eyebrows, cuticles, insect bites, windburn, or as a gloss for lips, lashes and cheeks.
What we say: An icon of the beauty world, this luxurious product instantly hydrates dry or chapped skin. A thick texture, with a yellow translucent colouring. An airplane-friendly and very stylish white tube.
The Results: I’ve heard a lot about this product and so was excited to finally try it out. The first thing I noticed is the smell – quite a medicinal fragrance, but I found it quite pleasant. Applying it was really easy, as the tube allows you to squeeze the perfect amount directly onto fingers. I applied it to my chapped lips and they felt instantly smoother and more moisturised. It has great staying power – I didn’t need to reapply to my lips for a good few hours (even after eating). I found it a little thick to use over my entire face, but it’s great for adding a glossy sheen to cheekbones and eyelids. I’d also strongly recommend using it on elbows, knees, and dry patches on the body. This tube won’t be leaving my handbag!
Best for: Very dry or chapped skin

TISSERAND CLEAR SKIN RECOVERY BALM, £5.30 (JOHN LEWIS NATIONWIDE).
What they say: A natural balm to soothe and calm irritated skin conditions, The gentle formula contains a blend of organic and ethically harvested essential oils to purify and clear the skin from blemishes, rosacea and uneven skin tone.
What we say: A white balm with the texture of a gel. Use it daily in the shower for tingly, refreshed skin. An illustrated floral tube.
The Results: I loved the gorgeous fragrance of this product – a refreshing blend of tea-tree and rosemary. It’s perfect for using in the shower in the morning – not only does the scent linger on your skin all day, but it also works brilliantly at waking you up. The carefully selected organic essential oils - Tea Tree Oil and Rosemary Oil – are very gentle, cleansing and soothing problem skin. After climbing out the shower, I could feel the product on my skin, but it didn’t feel at all greasy. My skin is definitely looking brighter and clearer – I would strongly recommend it to people with problem skin.
Best for: Sensitive and problem skin

Feature: SWEET TREATS (16.01.09)
Getting bored of the January detox? Fight your cravings with our selection of sugar-infused beauty – just as delicious, but much kinder on those bathroom scales…

CHOCOLATE
Chocoholic, anyone? It’s not just the taste you are craving – it’s the creamy texture, the sweet addictive scent, and that incredible feeling when it starts to melt… Satisfy your addiction with our pick of the best cocoa-laced beauty products. Just try to resist giving the products a lick…
- If just the smell of chocolate is enough to raise a smile, you are going to be grinning for hours after applying LCN Cocoa & Almond Delight Body Cream, £21.45 (www.beautyconcepts.co.uk). With lashings of cocoa butter and almond oil, the skin is left feeling fabulously soft. Better still, it has the unmistakable scent of sweet milk chocolate.
- Take the lid off LUSH Cupcake, £6.31 (www.lush.co.uk) and you could be forgiven for thinking you had cracked open a dark chocolate mousse. It’s best not to tuck in with a spoon, mind – this product will feel much better on your skin, than on your lips. Designed for oily or teenage skin, this facemask contains cocoa butter, cocoa powder, rhassoul mud, peppermint oil and spearmint oil. We can’t think of a better way to keep those breakouts at bay…
- BareMinerals has just launched a tempting selection of pudding-inspired lipsticks, with names including ginger snap, butter pecan, and plum brulee. Top of our shopping list is Chocolate Souffle, £12.50 (0870 850 6655). Thankfully it doesn’t smell like chocolate (we’d be forever licking our lips), but the brand has got the colour spot on. In the tube, it is the perfect homage to our favourite snack. On our lips, it is slightly subtler, working brilliantly on every skin tone.
- Believe it or not, there is one form of chocolate that will help you tone up this January. Germaine de Capuccini Chocoscrub, £26 (0845 6000203) contains genuine pieces of cocoa that slough away dead skin cells to reveal brighter, firmer, smoother skin underneath. The ingredients include a shot of caffeine, which works wonders at battling post-Christmas cellulite.

HONEY
Thought honey was limited to a slice of toast and bowl of yoghurt? Not according to Cleopatra; reputably one of the most beautiful women to have graced this planet… Legend tells us that she mixed scoops of honey into her daily milk baths, which kept her skin soft, supple, and beautiful.
She certainly knew her beauty… Honey contains natural humectants, which makes it highly moisturising, plus it’s packed with skin-benefitting vitamins and minerals. You’ll find it in a plethora of beauty products on shelves now – here’s our pick of the best.
- Want your skin to feel super soft? Simple. Take a tube of Benefit Honey Snap Out Of It Scrub, £18.50 (www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk), use it religiously on your face every morning, and watch skin become brighter, more even-toned, and far smoother. The miracle product (yes, we’d go as far as to say that) is made using sweet almond meal and oatmeal (to exfoliate skin) and a generous dollop of honey (to soften). Enjoy.
- It looks like a pot of honey, it smells like one, and it will definitely make you feel as happy. Marks & Spencer Royal Jelly & Pure Honey Moisturising Body Cream, £4.50 (www.marksandspencer.com) has a gel-like texture, which feels deliciously cooling on application. It absorbs almost instantly and leaves your skin feeling like satin.
- When skin needs an emergency pick-me-up (and who’s doesn’t in January?) turn to NUDE Intense Moisture Mask, £31.32 (0800 6344366). The ingredients include nourishing honey and fig, nurturing organic cupuacu, and soothing liquorice. Your skin will be left feeling beautifully soft, supple, and revived.
- Honey and U.S. company Burt’s Bees come hand in hand. The vast majority of their product range contains lashings of honey-drenched beeswax, which keeps skin feeling beautifully hydrated. Highlights include the Milk and Honey Body Lotion, £12, and Colour Keeper Shampoo, £11 (www.myburtsbees.co.uk)

GINGER
It smells fabulous, but there is so much more to ginger than its sweet, spicy scent. Warming, stimulating, muscle-relaxing, and skin brightening –it’s no wonder that the ingredient is scattered generously into so many beauty products.
Indulge yourself with our tempting ginger selection – perfect for those winter nights when the temperature has plunged and the only way you can think to warm yourself up is to run a piping hot bath.
- Elemis Exotic Lime and Ginger Salt Glow, £35 for 410g (www.timetospa.co.uk) is the ultimate exfoliation ritual for smooth, glowing skin. Grab a generous handful and massage over the body. It feels luxurious, pampering, and fabulously warming
- Origins fabulous Ginger range will embrace your body with a cocoon of warmness, while perking up your mood with the citrusy-crisp scent of lemon, lime, and bergamot. There are 14 products to choose from, but top of your shopping list should be Origins Ginger Up Aromatic Shampoo and Conditioner, £9.79 each for 200ml (www.origins.co.uk). A burst of spicy fragrance is released into your bathroom as you lather the products onto your hair. The scent clings to hair all day and feels incredibly indulgent
- Love the products used during luxury spa treatments? Wish you could recreate the experience at home? Get your hands on a tube of ESPA Body Smoothing Shower Gel, £19.50 for 200ml (www.espaonline.com). The cocktail of ingredients includes clove, lime, bergamot, jasmine and rosehip – but the one you’ll immediately detect when you lift the lid is ginger. Use it in the morning and it’ll give you an instant lift
- Keep a pot of NEOM Organic Multi-Balm, £12 (www.neomorganics.com) close to hand during the winter months and your skin will certainly thank you for it. The product contains eight key protecting and moisturising essential oils, with the delicious fragrance of sweet orange and ginger. Use it on cuticles, lips, dry patches, or chapped skin.

ALMONDS
Nuts about almonds? You need to get your hands on some almond-infused beauty pronto. Why almonds? Well, the scent is sweet and addictive. The oil leaves skin feeling like silk. And the shells, when ground finely, will gently buff and polish.
Tempted? Take your pick from our marzipan-scented selection below.
- Lipstick and dry, chapped lips – it just doesn’t work. Fabulous new beauty emporium MyVanityCase.co.uk has come to the rescue, with The Lip Scrub by Sara Happ in Almond Crème, £19.95 (www.myvanitycase.co.uk). Simply rub a little over lips with your finger, wipe with a tissue, and marvel at your silky smooth pout. It’s packed with almond oil to soften even the toughest skin and smells wonderful – you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
Once upon a time, leave-in conditioners were arriving on shelves faster than we could mutter ‘bad hair day’. Now, they’re really quite rare, so when we heard about Korres Leave-On Conditioner with Almond Proteins, £9 (www.bathandunwind.com), we were pretty excited. Your hair will be left smelling sweet, feeling hydrated, and boasting a stunning sheen.
- Hands feeling dry and delicate? Get them wrapped around a pot of The Body Shop Almond Oil Hand Rescue Treatment, £9 (www.thebodyshop.co.uk) and all will be resolved. Like an invisible pair of gloves, this moisturising sweet-scented soufflé wraps hands in serious protection.
- We’re always searching for the perfect moisturiser – a product that feels lightweight, yet is rich enough to hydrate even the driest of skins. Neal’s Yard Remedies Almond Moisturiser, £13.70 (www.nealsyardremedies.com) could well be the answer to our beauty prayers. The cream contains organic almond oil, coconut oil, and evening primrose oil to smooth and soften skin. Keep a pot in your handbag and apply it whenever your skin feels tight.

CANDY
Candy canes, strawberry liquorice, sherbert pips, cola cubes… There’s something wonderfully comforting about a paper bag brimming with sweet treats.
Rediscover your inner-child with our selection of candy-fragranced beauty products. All the fun of the Pick & Mix, but less of the guilt after you indulge…
- If reminders of the fairground bring back happy memories, you need to invest in a pot of Ciaté Too Sweet To Eat Exfoliating Hand Scrub, £15.25 (www.powderrooms.com), which has the unmistakable scent of candy floss. The gentle scrub is made using Sugar, Jojoba, Borage Oil, and Vitamin E. It leaves mitts feeling silky smooth and incredibly soft - the perfect tool for DIY manicures.
- Washing hands has never been the most indulgent activity, but you’ll enjoy it a whole lot more if LUSH Sweetie Soap Stack, £7.79 (www.lush.co.uk) is sat on the side of your sink. The soap sandwich contains three slabs, scented with Candy, Honey Toffee, and Coconut Ice. The only problem will be picking which one to use first…
- Never heard of the Urban Apothecary’s Library of Fragrance? You are in for a treat. The brand has taken fun everyday scents and turned them into utterly delightful fragrances – examples include Baby Powder, Clean Windows, Gin & Tonic, and even Play-doh. Our favourite, however, is the irresistible Cotton Candy Eau de Toilette, £12 (www.urbanapothecary.co.uk) - the fresh, warm fragrance of candy floss.
- Remember Jelly Belly beans? The retro brand has just launched Jelly Belly Bath Salts and Spoon, £4.90 (www.asos.com) - a tin containing sweet-fragranced bath salts. One glance at the fun packaging and we’d forgive you for thinking you were about to tuck into a handful of jelly beans – but we suggest you pour these straight into the bath, breathe in deeply, and enjoy daydreaming about your youth…

VANILLA
Sweet, spicy, warming, and delicious. If you’re looking for a pick-me-up on the coldest winter evenings, you need to turn to Vanilla. Get your sugar-fix with an ultra-sweet dose of vanilla-scented beauty.
- If you’d happily skip the main meal to move straight onto pudding, you will adore B Never Too Busy To Be Beautiful Crème Anglaise, £18.60 (www.bnevertoobusytobebeautiful.com). Smother the thick vanilla and cocoa butter cream generously over hands and body – you’ll be able to detect the rich fragrance for hours afterwards...
- Philosophy are masters at capturing and bottling the most irresistible foody fragrances. Their tempting Vanilla Birthday Cake 3-in-1 Shampoo, Body Wash, and Bubble Bath, £14.50 (www.hqhair.com) is no exception. Use it generously in the shower to bring back memories of freshly baked Victoria Sponge – sprinkles optional.
- Sweet-toothed fashionistas will adore spritzing Vera Wang Princess Eau de Toilette, £39 (www.johnlewis.com) over their designer togs before heading out of the door. The fragrance is best described at ‘Fruity Vanilla’ – a sparkling combination of Chiffon Vanilla, Waterlilly, Pink Guava, and Dark Chocolate.
- Wake up dull January skin with Bliss Vanilla & Bergamot Body Buff, £28 (www.hqhair.com). The ultra-softening Shea Butter and Sweet Almond paste is laced with skin-smoothing vanilla bean pieces. Grab a handful and massage over your entire body – it will leave your body feeling wonderfully smooth and smelling good-enough-to-eat. You’ll be hooked after just one use.

Treatment Review: NEOM PERFECT TREAT FOR TIRED FEET, THE BERKELEY (16.01.09)
What it promises: Hitting the January sales? Make sure you book yourself into the Berkeley’s iconic roof-top spa at the end of the day – your feet will certainly thank you for it. The treatment to request is the NEOM Perfect Treat For Tired Feet – 25-minutes of scrubbing, soaking, moisturising, and massaging to relieve and relax pinched toes, throbbing heels, and aching ankles. This treatment is available until January 31st 2009.
What happens: After a long afternoon sifting through the bargains at Harrods and Harvey Nichols, I made my way through the grand revolving doors of The Berkeley and headed up to the seventh floor. As the lift doors opened, I was hit by a heavenly scent and followed my nose to the sleek reception area of the spa. After indicating my choice of music (classical, please) and preferred massage pressure (relaxing, thank you very much), I was ushered into a candle-lit treatment room and invited to sink back into the deepest, comfiest chair I have ever set eyes on. Relaxing in that chair, while sipping a mug of creamy hot chocolate and munching a signature stiletto-shaped ‘Christian Louboutin’ biscuit, felt utterly divine – and this is before the treatment had even started… The therapist began by rubbing my feet and lower legs with a deliciously-scented NEOM body scrub, before preparing a bowl of warm water to wash and soak the exhausted soles. After drying them with a fluffy towel, the roughest spots were treated to an application of NEOM Multi-Balm to soften and smooth the skin. Next came the bit I had been waiting for – each foot was treated to an ultra-relaxing and reviving massage, using the luxurious combination of NEOM Body Lotion and Body Oil. A full 10 minutes was spent on each foot, allowing ample time for the toes, soles, heels, arches and lower legs to be left feeling deliciously free of aches and pains. To finish the perfect pampering experience, I made my way downstairs to The Blue Bar to enjoy a Truffle Martini (included in the price of the treatment). With regular visitors to the bar including the likes of Madonna and Heidi Klum, I spent the next blissful hour sipping my cocktail, people-watching, and trying to drum up the energy to head home.
Results: My feet were left feeling wonderfully light – I literally bounced the whole way home. But for me, this treatment is so much more than a massage. It’s about the location – just a stone’s throw from London’s best shopping district. It’s about the surroundings – it doesn’t get much more luxurious than The Berkeley Spa, with its vanilla walls, chocolate-brown furnishings, flickering candles, and divine scents. It’s about the products – an introduction to NEOM Luxury Organics and the incredible benefits to your skin. And it’s about the little extras – the mug of steaming hot chocolate, the quirky biscuit, and the stylish cocktail. I’ll be back to The Berkeley – and next time, I’ll be dragging along my friends.
Price: £50 for 25 minutes, including hot chocolate, biscuit, and Blue Bar Truffle Martini.
Location: The Berkeley, Wilton Place, Knightsbridge SW1 X 7RL. 0207 2011699. www.the-berkeley.co.uk. 0207 2011699

Blog: X-FACTOR MAKEUP ARTIST JACKIE TYSON – ON HOW TO ACHIEVE PERFECT SKIN WITH WITCH SKINCARE (16.01.09)
As a makeup artist, the best advice I can give is to look after your skin. January is a great time to review your skincare routine, and take on board some tips and tricks to achieve perfect skin…
The Party Blemish!
Urggh! How can this be? Here comes the party, and here arrive unsightly blemishes! You’re old enough to be buying your first anti-wrinkle cream but breakouts (and at the most inconvenient of times!) are still part and parcel of skincare, so unfair…
But what’s the best quick fix out there?
Not Toothpaste! The number of times I’ve heard about people using toothpaste on spots; toothpaste is for teeth and not for your skin! Always have something to hand that’s targeted for blemishes.
I’ve always used the little Witch Stick. I keep it in my kit as well as my handbag and highly recommend it, because it really works!”
The ultimate in blemish control, the Witch Stick, contains extract of natural Witch Hazel that works hard to fight bacteria. Simply dab on as soon as the blemish appears and watch your problem fade away… Brilliant!
The Detox…
After a few too many boozy nights over the festive period, your skin needs re-energising to get rid of that ‘grey’ pallor. A great way to do this is with an exfoliator that will work to refresh toxin-heavy skin!
At this time of year, you really need to get back to your basic beauty rules and regularly use an exfoliator once a week.
Try Witch Exfoliating Face Wash, with clever micro-granules, it’s gentle enough to include in your weekly routine and will leave your complexion looking rested and revitalised.
Compulsory!
My absolute fail-safe for keeping my skin in top condition is to jump in the shower each morning and use a wash specifically for the face – a great way to wake yourself up, plus the extra heat and steam will help open up pores for a really good deep-clean.
Try Witch Foaming Face Wash, a refreshing wash to be used morning and night, and an easy one to incorporate in to your routine and keep your skin care on track in to the New Year too!

BREAKING NEWS: BOBBI BROWN LAUNCHES SKIN FOUNDATION SPF15 (16.01.09)
It’s the holy grail of the beauty world – a foundation that leaves skin looking 100% natural and feels absolutely weightless. The good news? Bobbi Brown has finally cracked the riddle, with the launch of its incredible Skin Foundation SPF15 this January. The-Beauty-Pages.com has been lucky enough to try it – and we urge you to get your hands on a bottle. The secret is in the formulation – a unique blend of pigments, emollients, and light-reflective optics to smooth and hydrate the skin, while instantly minimising the look of pores and concealing imperfections. Better still, the foundation is incredibly long-wearing, giving up to eight hours of perfect coverage.
Bobbi Brown’s inspiration? “This foundation offers the lightest amount of coverage without being transparent. I named it Skin Foundation because it doesn’t look like foundation – it looks like skin”. The product is suitable for all skin types and has been dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested. With 17 different shades to choose from, you can be certain that there’s a shade to match your skin tone perfectly. It retails at £26 from Bobbi Brown counters nationwide.

TRIED & TESTED: BODY BUTTERS (09.01.09)
Give your skin an intensive shot of moisture this January with a rich, comforting body butter. We’ve put six different brands to the test.

CLINIQUE DEEP COMFORT BODY BUTTER, £19.09 for 200ML (www.clinique.co.uk).
What they say: Intense, luxurious hydration; helps protect against free radical damage. Softens rough, dry skin. Easily absorbs into skin. Apply liberally to clean, towel-dried areas of the body after showering, bathing or whenever skin needs a moisture boost.
What we say: A rich body cream, with a thick texture and subtle buttery fragrance. A generous-sized tub with signature silver lid.
The Results: This cream has a rich vanilla colouring, so I was expecting to lift the lid and smell something fairly sweet. Quite the opposite – I couldn’t detect any scent at all. However, applying it was a total pleasure – it absorbed within minutes and left my skin feeling silky soft and instantly hydrated. As it melted into my skin, I could detect a subtle buttery fragrance too, which I loved. It’s the first moisturiser that I’ve religiously applied for longer than a few weeks – I think it’s because there is no sickly fragrance for me to get bored with. A little goes a long way and I’ll definitely be restocking when this pot runs out.
Best for: Long-term use

KORRES GUAVA BODY BUTTER, £11.50 for 150ml (0207 5816455)
What they say: Smoothing and moisturising cream for all over the body, ideal for dry elbows, heels and knees. Guava is an important source of vitamin C, which stimulates collagen synthesis. Shea butter and Quince extract have softening, moisturising and restructuring properties. Sunflower, Almond and Avocado oils nourish the skin.
What we say: A tube of body butter, with an easy-to-use pump applicator. The texture is thick and the scent is ultra-sweet.
The Results: The pump applicator made this body butter really easy to use – no more delving fingers into messy pots! I love sugary smells, but I must admit that this is sweet even by my standards. The best way for me to describe the fragrance is ‘tropical vanilla’ – initially quite strong, but tones down after absorbing into the skin. It’s thick, indulgent, and left my skin with a subtle sheen. My body has never felt so soft - even my rough elbows have become silky smooth. I’d highly recommend this – but go for one of the fresher scents if you don’t like sweeter scents as there are six in the range.
Best for: Easy Application

THE BODY SHOP PINK GRAPEFRUIT BODY BUTTER, £12.50 for 200ml (www.thebodyshop.co.uk)
What they say: An intensive, creamy all-over body moisturiser with a zesty pink grapefruit fragrance. It absorbs into the skin easily to condition and soften, providing moisturisation for up to 24 hours.
What we say: A thick buttery cream, with a zingy grapefruit scent. Classic and very cheerful packaging.
The Results: I tend to choose my beauty products by the seasons – spicy warm fragrances in the winter, fresher fruity fragrances in the summer. Using this zingy moisturiser during the winter months was a bit out of character, but I’m happy to admit that I have been wrong all these years! Covering my skin in such a punchy fragrance in the morning gave my mood a brilliant lift. I felt instantly more awake and much happier (even on the gloomy commute). My skin felt pampered and hydrated after using it. It’s great value for money too.
Best for: Lifting your mood

AROMATHERAPY ASSOCIATES ENRICH BODY BUTTER, £25.50 for 150ml (www.aromatherapyassociates.com)
What they say: The creamy combination of natural oils and exotic scents of sweet Jasmine, Patchouli and Tonka Bean make our deeply moisturising body butter an unforgettable experience. Rich Babassu Oil and Murumuru Butter smooth skin texture, leaving a healthy sheen.
What we say: Stylish packaging, containing a deep pot of moisturiser with a rich creamy texture. Packed with essential oils, the fragrance is warming and indulgent.
The Results: This body butter reminded me of spending time in a luxury spa. The scent is delicious and my skin was left feeling like it had just enjoyed a long pampering body treatment. I’ve never enjoyed applying moisturiser – to be honest, it’s always been a bit of a chore. Using this cream, however, was an enjoyable and luxurious experience. The cream absorbs very quickly and leaves skin literally glowing – it’s ideal for using before a night out, to leave skin looking its absolute best. It’s pricey, but I genuinely look forward to applying it and would highly recommend investing in a pot.
Best for: A spa experience at home

LUSH KING OF SKIN BODY BUTTER, £4.84 (www.lush.co.uk)
What they say: The King of Skin exists only to make your skin softer and smoother. You wash, you stroke the bar over your body, you rinse it off, you dry and you feel as if you've been transported inside the skin of someone younger.
What we say: A solid block of body butter, which is applied to wet skin in the bath or shower. Contains Cocoa Butter, Shea Butter and Coconut Butter, Bananas, Toning Essential Oils, Jojoba and Almond Oils, Fresh Avocado and Oatmeal.
The Results: As instructed on the packaging, I waited until I was in the shower to use this product. It felt like a slab of cold soap before I used it, but it melted as soon as it touched my skin. It feels luxurious and very soothing. Afterwards, my skin felt like I had generously applied body oil in the shower – slippery, but very soft and smooth. I didn’t feel especially clean when I got out of the shower, so I would recommend using it before bed, rather than just before you get dressed for work. In the morning, I couldn’t believe how baby-soft my skin still felt. This is the perfect quick-fix for dehydrated winter skin.
Best for: Very dry skin

NEAL’S YARD REMEDIES GERANIUM & ORANGE BODY BUTTER, £23.45 for 200g (www.nealsyardremedies.com)
What they say: Restores vibrancy to dull or dry skin with this nourishing body butter. Vitamin-rich and nourishing base oils have been blended with essential oils of geranium and orange to impart an uplifting and delightful fragrance.
What we say: Classic Neal’s Yard packaging, with a stylish fuchsia label. The body butter has the texture of a thick balm. The fragrance is the perfect balance between fruity and floral. The product is 100% organic.
The Results: When I saw the fragrance of this product – Geranium and Orange – I was a bit dubious about cracking open the lid as it seemed a bit granny-fied. I was wrong though – the scent is quite strong, but very young, stylish, and luxurious. If I walked into an expensive day spa, this is the fragrance I would expect to breathe in. The texture of the moisturiser is very thick and buttery, which means it takes a while to massage in. This process means that every inch of skin is properly hydrated – even the driest parts are feeling butter soft. Finally, I love the fact that it’s organic. I’m totally addicted.
Best for: The organic choice

Breaking News: GWEN STEFANI’S HARAJUKU LOVERS COLLECTION LAUNCHES EXCLUSIVELY AT WORLD DUTY FREE (16.01.09)
Fan of Gwen Stefani’s quirky style? You’ll love her latest fragrance collection, Harajuku Lovers, which has launched exclusively at World Duty Free. As we’d expect from the top trendsetter, these scents aren’t presented in average glass bottles – each of the five fragrances are concealed within kitsch miniature Japanese dolls. The five scents are named Love, Lil Angel, Music, Baby, and G; capturing lyrics from Gwen Stefani’s albums. Each is floral in scent, with undertones of Creamy Vanilla Orchid, Pineapple, Sparkling Pear, Orange Flower, or (our favourite) Fresh Coconut. Travelling abroad this winter? If not, get down on your hands and knees and beg a friend who will be… The scents will be sold exclusively at World Duty Free stores until February. Each scent costs an affordable £16. For more information, visit www.worlddutyfree.com

Breaking News: BEAUTY BOUTIQUE PAYS PEOPLE TO DISPLAY ADVERTS ON EYELIDS (16.01.09)
In the midst of the credit crunch, with Christmas debts adding to our financial woes, it’s understandable that people are looking to make a little extra cash this January. Selling off parts of your body for the purposes of advertising, however, might seem a little extreme. Luxury beauty boutique Feelunique.com is the first company in the UK to offer people the chance to earn money (10p per wink, to be exact) in return for displaying the company’s logo on their eyelid space. Thankfully, the logo is transferred only temporarily and participating models will only be paid up to a total of £100 (avoiding the risk of eyelash strain). All current spaces are filled, but keep your eye on the website for future recruitment drives. Amy Rebours of Feelunique.com comments: “"We all take notice when we're being winked at, so what better way to advertise a beauty company than on people's eyelids? It's a genuine marketing first, which encourages people to spread a feel-good winking moment and earn some much-needed extra income in the process.” So, if you notice somebody winking at you from across a crowded room this January, it might not be all it seems… And if you happen to visit the website (we strongly recommend you do), you will find a boutique brimming with top brand skincare, makeup, haircare and fragrance, all at 15% less than RRP, with free delivery worldwide.
Visit: www.feelunique.com

Blog: A DAY IN THE LIFE OF CHASE ASTON – THE BODY SHOP’S INTERNATIONAL MAKEUP ARTIST (16.01.09)
It’s another long day! I am on a three country tour to promote The Body Shop’s Roseflower Spring 2009 trend collection, which I helped create. It’s now 5.00am and after a shower I’m wide awake and scrubbed raw, but hey it’s all in the name of beauty! I check that I’m in Toronto - Jet lag plays spooky tricks on the mind. I’m appearing on breakfast TV and have to be at the studio by 6.00am. I soon arrive at the studio and meet the hairdresser I’ll be working alongside: Kevin. We are going to make-over an audience member, so we start scanning the guests. I lay out the new collection – everyone ooh’s and aahh’s about how gorgeous it all looks! I smile and thank them, but inside I’m screaming, ‘Please don’t touch, it’s the ONLY set I have and I want it pristine and fabulous for its TV debut’! Our chosen lady is going to get a complete hair and make-over as it’s her birthday – her husband is meeting her after filming to take her out for lunch. I love doing this – it’s live TV and the pressure is on! I give her subtle smoky eyes and define her brows. I use The Body Shop Sheer Pink Radiance Stick to highlight her cheeks, then pat Roseflower Lip Colour in Deep Pink onto her lips for Wow Factor! She’s looking fantastic, but I see tears in her eyes – being selfish, I think ‘DONT SMUDGE THE MAKEUP’! The tears subside, pushed back by the lashings of waterproof mascara I had the foresight to use. The smile tells us (and half of Canada) that our birthday girl loves her new look.... She tells us that she wouldn’t normally wear such a bold lip colour, but loves it. Feeling generous, I give her my only sample – I hope they have some spare shades in New York!

Spa Review: Hoar Cross Hall (16.01.09)
Location: Maker Lane, Hoar Cross, Near Yoxall, Staffordshire, DE13 8QS. 01283 575671 www.hoarcross.co.uk
Facilities: Set in a traditional stately home circa 1869, Hoar Cross Hall is a picture of pampering perfection. Forget swish city spas where quick-fix facials and Botox boosts reign supreme, this destination spa, oozing with health farm heritage, is more comparable to a self-contained holiday resort, with activities, restaurants, grounds and facilities in abundance. Outdoor aficionados can familiarise themselves with tennis courts, a 9-hole golf course, driving range, croquet, boules and archery, whilst inside, the two swimming pools, hydrotherapy area, water grotto, sauna, steam rooms, saunariams and relaxation rooms will keep those who want their out-of-town jaunt to be more laid-back than lively, blissfully happy. There’s even a gym and hair salon on-site so you can get toned and trimmed before your evening meal, served in the original ballroom (next to the Champagne Bar). It’s advisable to get a tour when you first arrive, which is completely complimentary. Your guide will lead you through the historic home before heading to the spa, pool and lunch areas – they’ll even tailor the tour to you, dropping you off at your room afterwards. You don’t have to be dressed for the occasion – robes and slippers are de rigueur until dinner, when a more formal dress code ensues. But what spa would be complete without a treatment room or two - or in fact sixty in this case? Hidden away in various corridors, to save you from roaming the hallways, your therapist will greet you in a communal waiting area before whisking you away to have your treatment. With so many rooms, it’s no surprise that they’re not kitted out in haute couture fixtures and fittings, but luckily the treatments and the rest of the spa facilities more than make up for it.
Ambience: First impressions count, and the staff at Hoar Cross Hall tick all the right boxes – warm, friendly and genuine. It might sound sickly-sweet, but everyone from the concierge to the therapists is attentive without being overpowering. They can sense when you want your water or wine topped up, but will leave you to leisurely help yourself to the free tea and coffee dotted around the rooms. They’ll point out the best products for you after you’ve had your treatment, but will let you make your own mind up about whether you want to go to the shop and actually purchase them - in fact, it rather feels like they all enjoy their jobs – what more could you ask for?
Treatments Tested: ESPA Holistic Therapy, £65. Specially devised for Hoar Cross Hall, this treatment centres on the relaxing properties of the ESPA aromatherapy oils. Before getting into position on the massage bed, your nose will be required to perform a scent selection to decipher which oils will be used throughout your treatment. Packed with various therapeutic properties, according to ESPA your senses will naturally pick out the most beneficial oils for your body’s needs and wants, which is why it’s left to you to choose them, rather than your therapist. Then, once the selection process is over and you’re back on the bed, the treatment begins with a full-body brush and exfoliation to get rid of unwanted skin cells and boost your circulation. After a short shower, a healthy portion of nourishing body oil is slathered on, and so the oils have enough time to soak into the skin, you get treated to a mini facial and scalp massage. More of a face massage than a facial, you can literally feel any stress and tension you had disappear, and when combined with the oils, you’ll be hard-pushed to find anything as relaxing as this (which is why they advise you not to drive straight afterwards). Luckily, one of the spa’s nearby cafés is just a hop, skip and a jump away, so you can refuel and get ready for another session in the spa at your own pace. Spa packages start at £159 for the Relax and Indulge spa package, with overnight stay.

Feature: BEAUTY JARGON EXPLAINED (09.01.09)
Advertising constantly bombards us with beauty jargon – but what does it all really mean? Start taking your beauty regime seriously in 2009 by swatting up on all those baffling terms and complicated ingredients.

PARABENS
You might not know exactly what Parabens are, but we bet you get an ominous feeling when you hear the word muttered. Their bad reputation, however, is mostly unfounded. The controversy began with the publication of a report by Dr Darbre of the University of Reading in 2004, in which she commented on the discovery of Parabens in 20 examples of cancerous breast tissue. While the report never claimed that their presence was the cause or an accelerant of the cancer, the media’s sensationalist interpretation of the findings led to consumer confidence in Parabens taking a sharp nosedive. Essentially, Parabens are a preservative; they are cost effective and have a long history of safe use. The types we are most likely to find in beauty products include methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben and butylparaben. As a preservative, Parabens help to prevent the transfer of harmful bacteria to your skin. The moment a tub of cream is opened and exposed to the air it is contaminated and begins to degrade. Each time you touch the cream you are transferring bacteria from your own skin to the product, which will manifest there and transfer back to your skin the next time you use it – sometimes causing nasty infections, especially when the cream is used around the delicate eye area. Reliable brands, such as Dermalogica, have not bent to the will of the Paraben-free fad and still include them as ingredients in their products. They have a great reputation for use especially on sensitive skin. Try Skin Smoothing Cream, £24.60, by Dermalogica (0800 591 818)

COLLAGEN
It’s hard to miss the word ‘collagen’ when shopping for beauty products. Most of us are aware that it has something to do with the skin – a few of us might even associate it with plumping (implants anyone?) – but what is it exactly, and why does our skin need it?
Collagen is a protein – in fact, it is the most abundant protein in our bodies making up about 25% of the total body mass. It works hand-in-hand with elastin to support the body’s tissues, giving our skin both strength and resilience. As well as being a building block for a healthy body, collagen is a powerful weapon in the battle against the visible signs of aging. It keeps skin plump, glowing and youthful-looking. Skin with slow collagen synthesis can look sallow, with small but visible red veins (broken capillaries that are weakened by the lack of collagen). As we age, the rate at which we produce collagen slows dramatically, paving the way for deep-set lines and wrinkles. It’s not all bad news though, as introducing products into our daily skincare routine to stimulate collagen production couldn’t be easier. There are a plethora of products on the market to choose from – we recommend using a topical cream each morning, such as the Collagen Re-Plumper range from L’Oreal. For an intensive face mask, try The Organic Pharmacy Collagen Boost Mask, £59.95 (www.theorganicpharmacy.com), which contains aloe, seaweed, grapefruit, sweet orange, Alpha Lipoic acid and CoQ10.

SALICYLIC ACID
If the idea of putting acid near your face makes you want to run for cover, it’s time for a little rethink. Salicylic Acid is a naturally occurring organic acid found in the leaves of wintergreen, meadowsweet or willowbark, and is an incredibly efficient and gentle way to exfoliate the skin.
Best known for its effectiveness at treating acne and problem skin, it works by gently smoothing away the outer layers of dead skin, allowing room for new cell growth and revealing newer, brighter skin underneath. The skin is constantly renewed, which slows the signs of ageing, improves sun damage, and evens out the skin tone. If that wasn’t enough, Salicylic Acid can also dramatically improve stretch marks, oily complexions, scars, clogged pores, and blackheads, It has medical uses too, effectively treating psoriasis, calluses, corns, warts, and keratosis pilaris (a follicular condition, which appears as rough bumps on the skin).
Clinique has just extended their Visible Turnaround range, which includes Salicylic Acid to speed fresh vibrant cells to the surface of the skin. The original Turnaround Concentrate, £29.36 (www.clinique.co.uk) can be applied before moisturiser every morning and night, for a time-released and continuous renewal process. The brand new Turnaround Instant Facial, £29.36, and Turnaround Body Cream, £22.51, are also brilliant additions to your dressing table.

ANTIOXIDANTS
To understand the term ‘Antioxidants’, we first need to get to grip with the term ‘Free Radicals’. The latter are damaging to our bodies, destroying cells and leading to premature ageing and disease. We are constantly bombarded with Free Radicals – some are a natural by-product of the body’s own processes, but the majority come from pollution, UV radiation and alcohol. In fact, just about everything we come into contact with produces Free Radicals. To combat them, our bodies produce antioxidants. Just as with collagen, we are more adept at producing antioxidants when we are young, but there are certain measures we can take to boost them in our body. One method is through our diet – levels can be topped up by eating plenty of green leafy vegetables, berries, nuts, seeds, beans and lentils. The other (perhaps more enjoyable) method is through our beauty routine. Products containing Vitamin A and Vitamin C are brilliant antioxidants. Try The Organic Pharmacy Antioxidant Gel, £38.95 (www.theorganicpharmacy.com), which contains Alpha Lipoic Acid to increase the effects of other antioxidants or Prescriptives All You Need + Continuous Action 24-Hour Moisturizer SPF 15, £29 (0870 034 2566), which has an antioxidant blend of resveratrol, grapeseed extract, rosemary extract, pomegranate extract and goji berry, along with UVA/UVB broad spectrum sun protection.

UVA/UVB/SPF
We hear the terms ‘UVA’ and ‘UVB’ repeated throughout the summer and scrawled over countless beauty products, but most of us have little or no idea how they differ – or in fact, what exactly they are. Firstly UVA (ultraviolet–A) are long solar waves from the sun. Although less likely to cause sunburn, UVA penetrates our skin and actually alters our DNA. This can cause premature ageing, skin rashes, and leathering, which happens because the skin needs to protect itself from the sun (essentially piling up dead skin to act as a barrier from the rays). UVA may also directly cause some skin cancers. UVB (ultraviolet-B) on the other hand are the short solar waves originating from our sun. These cause sunburn and some melanoma. Not only is too much sun exposure to blame for premature ageing, but it is also one of the main causes of skin cancer. Choose products that have broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection to protect your skin. SPF (sun protection factor) measures the length of time the product prevents damage occurring from UVB exposure. SPF exists only to measure UVB protection and currently there is no similar system for UVA, but you can check you are protected by looking for the circled ‘UVA’ sign on the bottle. It is not just during the summer that we are at risk from the sun; we are exposed everyday of the year, particularly to UVA rays. Even in the winter or overcast days ensure you are wearing some level of protection and increase the factor in spring and summer when your exposure to the sun is intensified. La Roche Posay Anthelios Fluide Extreme 50+, £14, (0800 055 6822) offers protection from the entire spectrum of UVA/UVB rays regardless of intensity and is suitable for all skin types.

RETINOL
Retinol is the beauty industry’s wonder ingredient, with any beauty junkie worth her salt hunting out products with it listed in their ingredients. Retinol is the animal form of pure Vitamin A – it is the purest and most effective form of the vitamin. It helps cells reproduce and is a fundamental building block for hair, skin, nails and vision. Derivatives of Vitamin A include Retinaldehyde, Retinylpropionate, Retinylpalmintate, Pro Retinol and of course Retinol. Vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant, stimulating the renewal of collagen and elastin fibres to keep skin plump and to halt the formation of lines and wrinkles. It also helps to correct skin tone, clarity and texture. Retinol has been proven scientifically (in over 2,840 clinical/scientific publications) to decrease sagging, pore size, and skin sallowness (that unhealthy yellow tinge), improve hyper pigmentation, plus increase firmness and sagging. In 1995, RoC was the first brand to stabilise pure Vitamin A as Retinol. Try RoC Retin-Ox Serum, £29.95 (www.boots.com). Apply to face and neck once a day but do not use in conjunction with another retinol product.

 

Feature: NEW YEAR BEAUTY RESOLUTIONS (02.01.09)
Forget detox diets and fat-busting body regimes, this New Year make a promise to spruce up your hair and beauty habits instead. To get you started, we’ve come up with six beauty resolutions we guarantee you’ll want to follow...

SHORT BACK & SIDES
Beauty resolution: Take a trip to the hairdressers every six weeks
Why it’s the perfect pledge: If you’re keen to follow the ‘New Year, New You’ route, the biggest and best way to make an impact is with a spandangly new hair-do, but that doesn’t mean to say a quick forty-minute trim of those tresses won’t leave you feeling fantastic either. Regular trips to the hairdressers will not only leave your hair in tip-top condition, it’ll make it easier for you to stay on top of the latest hair trends too - just in case you do ever wish to dabble in some designer locks.
Says who: Mark Hayes, International Creative Director at Sassoon can’t stress enough the importance of getting your hair cut every few weeks. ‘Don't make the mistake of just not getting it cut - regular trims are a great way of maintaining the look and condition of growing hair and will eliminate the need for a more drastic cut later on.’
Daniel Galvin agrees, ‘Even if you’re trying to grow out a style or have your hair longer, it’s always good to get your hair cut regularly – just to make it look beautiful while it’s growing out, especially if you’ve been using heated appliances as they can make hair look dry very quickly. Try an intensive conditioning treatment to give your hair a boost between salon visits, and for extra oomph, wrap hair in a hot towel after you’ve applied the treatment - the steam will help the product penetrate the hair shaft for smoother, shinier results.’
But it’s not just conditioning remedies that’ll make or break your barnet, Anthony Pytlinski, Creative Stylist at Obsession Salons favours styling products too. ‘Hair is the most versatile accessory you have so it’s essential to use it and push it to the limits – use waxes and pastes for sassiness, and serums and sprays to vamp you up!’
The products: Sassoon’s Professional Advanced Condition, £12.50 (www.sassoon.com), Daniel Galvin’s Intensive Conditioning Treatment, £22 (0207 486 8601) and L’Oreal’s Play ball Motion Gelee, £12.25 and Texture Tonic, £11.25.

EYE SPY
Beauty Resolution: Always apply eye cream morning and night
Why it’s the perfect pledge: It’s common knowledge that your eyes are the windows to your soul, but when they’re puffy, dark and prematurely aging, who’s going to want to take a peek inside? This year, make it your mantra to focus on the prevention rather than the cure and pat away the years with some regenerating eye products that’ll help you turn back time. Trust us, a pair of wrinkle-free peepers will mean all eyes are on you.
Says who: Angela Chin-Steadman, Darphin Education and Development Manager admits ‘you can always tell a ladies age by looking at their eye area. It should therefore be treated with delicacy and in return, if looked after well, won’t give away your age.’
Principe Scientist for Olay, Dr Sian Morris couldn’t agree more. ‘The eye area is a big aging concern for most women. Dark circles and age spots around the eye can not only make a woman look older but reduce her confidence. It’s important to invest in a product that will instantly brighten the area, reduce eye darkness and lid dullness, as well as diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This in turn will all help to achieve more youthful-looking eyes.’
But just as important as the products is how you apply them according to Noella Gabriel, Elemis Director of Product and Treatment Development. ‘Always be aware of how you touch your skin - we constantly drag, pull and tug facial skin without awareness, especially around the eye area. Be careful never to overload the eye area with products and always apply them with the ring finger to respect the fine texture of the skin, moving from the outer to the inner corner of the eye without dragging.’
The products: Olay’s Definity Eye Illuminator, £24.99 (Boots) will leave your skin sparkling, whilst Darphin’s Dark Circle Relief and De-puffing Serum, £38 (0870 034 2566) and Elemis’ Pro-Collagen Marine Cream, £55 (www.elemis.com) will quickly plump out fine lines and revitalise the surrounding skin.

BROW-RAISING
Beauty Resolution: Keep your eyebrows neat and tidy
Why it’s the perfect pledge: In the same way your barnet can change your appearance, so too can your brows, and with designers and makeup artists continuing to send models down the catwalks with beautiful, big brows, a neatly-groomed pair has never been so important. If you’re unsure of what shape to go for, the most flattering form is a soft, gentle arch that tapers out into a neat point, but it’s worth booking in for an eyebrow consultation to decipher exactly which styles complement your features before you ‘pluck’ up the courage to take the plunge.
Says who: Hari Patel, owner of eyebrow threading salon Malika thinks that new brows are the key to a new you. ‘First impressions are so important and a perfect pair of eyebrows will make you look and feel more confident - they provide a frame to your face and can enhance, balance and define your facial features. Make sure you always let your brows grow before you visit an expert for the first time as this gives them something to work with and will allow them to advise you about the shape that suits you best and how to continue maintaining and enhancing your brows.’
Vanita Parti, founder of Blink Brow Bars couldn’t agree more and deems eyebrow maintenance a must. ‘Shaping eyebrows allows for space between your eyes and eyebrows so lightens the eyes and lifts the whole face. A subtle treatment that makes the world of difference, people will notice how great you look but not be able to pinpoint why. I would recommend no plucking in between visits to get a clean and perfectly smooth look once a month – resist the temptation and you will train your eyebrows to grow at one time rather than sporadically.’
The products: Nourish eyebrows with Blink’s Nourishing Brow Oil, £17.50 then groom them gorgeous with their Eyebrow Grooming Gel, £16 (www.blinkbrowbar.com). For a more natural approach, Malika suggest a quick slick of olive or castor oil on sparse eyebrows to thicken them.

SMOOTH CRIMINAL
Beauty Resolution: Smother yourself in moisturiser after every shower
Why it’s the perfect pledge: If God had made ten beauty commandments, this would have been one of them. A quick five-minute moisturise each day is all it takes to achieve baby-soft skin, so if you’re not au fait with a post-shower slather session, now’s the time to start. Always remember to moisture the moment you step foot on the floor, though - leave it any longer than two minutes and those precious pores will have snapped shut, leaving the moisturiser to stay sitting on your skin.
Says who: 'It is vital to moisturise your skin after showering to prevent the TEWL - transepidermal water loss that happens as skin gets older’ says Marcia Kilgore, founder of Soap & Glory. ‘And when winter comes, swap your lightweight lotions for richer, thicker butters – these are more effective at trapping moisture because they’re formulated as oil in water, meaning you’ll be likely to see less scaling and flaking skin.
Dr. Sue Mayou, Consult Dermatologist and Advisor to Neutrogena also warns how winter can be especially harmful to skin due to the cold temperature outside and centrally-heated rooms inside. ‘Cold air contains 30% less moisture than warm air so the skin loses more of its moisture, leading to flaking, and a dry uneven surface. To combat this, use a moisturising body wash to and apply a moisturising enriched body lotion every day, as if the skin lacks moisture it can start to flake and in extreme cases begin to crack and itch. Look out for the ingredient Glycerine, a humectant which draws water from the deeper layers of skin and dimethicone and paraffin which act as a surface barrier locking it in, ensuring skin remains well moisturised.’
The products: Soap & Glory’s Righteous Butter Body Butter, £10 (www.boots.com) and Neutrogena’s Norwegian Formula Everyday Repair Body Lotion, £4.99 (supermarkets nationwide) will both help to re-hydrate skin and lock in moisture as they go.

MAKE ME OVER
Beauty Resolution: Be more adventurous with your makeup
Why it’s the perfect pledge: We’d put money on the fact that once upon a time, back when you first discovered the wonderful world of makeup, there was nothing you loved more than experimenting with the latest looks and hunting down the perfect products for you. Fast forward a few years and time constraints and bad beauty habits may well have left you stuck in a beauty rut – even more of an excuse to make 2009 the era to start smartening up your pruning process – you won’t believe the difference it makes.
Says who: Head Make-up artist at B Never Too Busy To Be Beautiful, Charlotte Matheson believes January is the perfect time for a change. ‘Wearing new makeup can make you feel like a new woman. This year the look is all about subtle, matte bronzing and pretty red lips. Eyeshadow shades in soft pastel tones should be worn alone and because they suit all skin tones and eye colours, it’s a wearable look and a great way to ease you gently into a new trend.’
Martina Luisetti, Senior Artist at MAC is in agreement, admitting this is the ideal time of year to redefine your make-up. ‘It is imperative to feel confident in your beauty in order to look better. Gorgeous make-up that breaks the rules of your everyday regime will give a touch of intrigue and surprise everyone you meet. Light-reflecting eyeshadows in tones of dark green or light gold give a guaranteed wow factor and swap your lipstick for a matching lipglass that adds only a stain of colour. Even small, subtle changes will have a big impact.’
The products: B Never Too Busy To Be Beautiful’s pressed eyeshadow in Beach, £8.30 (www.bnevertoobusytobebeautiful.com) is the number one neutral this season, or for added glamour try MAC’s Brushed Metal-X eyeshadow in Gilded Ash, £11.74 (www.maccosmetics.com) teamed with their Lustreglass in Venetian, £ 10.28.

SQUEAKY CLEAN
Beauty Resolution: Visit the dentists more often
Why it’s the perfect pledge: Flash a mouthful of pearly whites at anyone and they’re bound to be impressed, but statistics show that us Brits favour hair and beauty treatments over a trip to the dentist every time. Our US counterparts on the other hand, put us to shame by making a point of visiting the hygienist every three months. Maybe it’s down to the fear factor, but regular visits to see the dreaded dentist could not only improve your chances in the bright-white smile stakes, but it’ll help stave off gum disease, decay and cavities, so instead of going once a year, why not treat your pegs to a professional polish once every few months instead?
Says who: ‘Looking after your teeth is extremely important’ says Dr Wyman Chan of Smile Studio, ‘and New Year’s resolutions give you the ideal opportunity to commit to regular dental check-ups. Brushing twice a day is a must, but frequent dental appointments are key to keeping your teeth healthy. Teeth whitening treatments will also help you to feel fabulous, and long gone are the days of invasive lasers. Instead we use a natural warm light to raise the temperature in the mouth, which enhances the penetration of the whitening gel. You can also carry out home whitening in between visits to your dentist, which all offer effective and pain-free results.’
The products: To makes sure your gnashers stay looking flash, Smile Studio’s At Home Kit, £95 will transform your teeth in ten days (www.smilestudiolondon.co.uk). Always use a top-notch toothbrush too – Colgate’s 360 toothbrush, £3.49 (supermarkets nationwide) is perfect for accessing those hard-to-reach areas.

 

Tried & Tested: CITRUS PRODUCTS (02.01.09)
January blues? Cheer yourself up with our smile-inducing selection of citrus-scented products.

AROMATHERAPY ASSOCIATES REVIVE MORNING BATH AND SHOWER OIL, £29.35 for 55ml (www.aromatherapyassociates.com)
What they say: Wake yourself up for the day ahead with this fresh and invigorating blend of pure essential oils. Add 1 capful to a full bath or apply directly to body before showering. Approx 20 capfuls per bottle.
What we say: An opaque glass bottle, packaged in a turquoise blue ribbon-tied box. The oil has a luxury scent.
The Results: The fragrance of this oil reminds me of visiting a luxury day spa – it’s a delicious blend of essential oils, with zingy citrus notes. The first time I tested it, I decided to pour a small amount under a hot tap while running a bath. The bathroom was instantly filled with the fragrance and I couldn’t wait to step in. Although I enjoyed every second, I didn’t find the product very energising – I always find a long soak relaxing and there was no change with this product. I decided to use it again the next morning in the shower and, this time, the scent really perked me up. It felt strange using an oil to wash in the shower, so I decided to use my regular shower gel and follow with the oil. I could still smell it on my skin at lunchtime and my skin has never felt softer – I definitely recommend investing in a bottle.
Best for: A spa experience at home

NEAL’S YARD REMEDIES PURIFYING CITRUS SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER, both £9.75 for 200ml (www.nealsyardremedies.com)
What they say: Anti-oxidant grape shampoo, combined with moringa to help counteract pollutants - ideal for swimmers, cyclists and urban dwellers. Follow with the deeply enriching conditioner – rich brazil nut oil combined with softening camelia and anti-oxidant honey extract to restore moisture levels and replenish hair's natural vitality.
What we say: Blue-tinted bottles with classic Neal’s Yard labels. The shampoo has a strong, almost alcoholic, citrus fragrance. The conditioner has a subtler citrus scent, with a touch of mint.
The Results: The packaging look great – a bit of a change from the supermarket-own bottles that currently sit on the side of my shower! I was expecting the products to have a refreshing lemony scent, so was surprised when I sniffed the shampoo and detected a very strong fragrance, almost like beer! However, it made a lovely lather as I rubbed it into my hair and washed out very easily. The conditioner has a thick creamy texture and a lighter scent. It feels luxurious and left my hair feeling lovely and soft. I have blonde hair, which often looks dull and lacklustre. Since swapping to these products, I have noticed the colour is brighter and it feels less greasy between washes.
Best for: Refreshing locks and boosting colour

LUSH HAPPY PILL BATH BALLISTIC, £2.84 (www.lush.co.uk)
What they say: Grapefruit, bergamot, frankincense, lemon, orange flower & mandarin for a calm, relaxing, frothy fizz. Pop a Happy Pill to cheer yourself up, but pop in the bath instead of a glass of water! A pile of Happy Pills will keep you going until the spring flowers show their smiling faces.
What we say: A citrus-scented bath ballistic, in the shape of a giant pill. Presented in Lush’s signature paper packaging.
The Results: It isn’t the most glamorous packaging, but the contents totally made up for it. The large yellow and orange slab has a deliciously juicy fragrance and made me feel happy just smelling it! It didn’t fizz as much as other bath ballistics I’ve tried and took over five minutes to totally dissolve, but the fruity fragrance filled the bathroom within seconds. It really did lift my spirits and left a subtle trace of the scent on my skin. Despite the bright colour, I’m pleased to report that it didn’t stain my bath. Later that day, the smell was still lingering in the bathroom and made me smile whenever I walked through. Fabulous value for money!
Best for: An affordable treat

MOLTON BROWN VITALISING VITAMIN AB + C BATH & SHOWER, £15.65 for 300ml (www.moltonbrown.co.uk)

What they say: Refresh and revitalise your mind and body with this enlivening gel cleanser. Squeezed from fresh oranges, the vitamin complex shower gel and bath foam softens, tones and strengthens the skin and boosts the senses with vitality.
What we say: A clear bottle with a silver mirror lid, containing a thick sunshine-yellow shower gel. The scent is impressively zingy.
The Results: I usually pick creamy shower gels with scents like vanilla or milk & honey, so switching to something so fruity was quite out of character for me. The first time I tested it was a dark and dreary Monday morning, so it needed to be quite powerful to perk me up. As soon as I squeezed it onto my hands, the intense orange fragrance hit me and filled the shower. It was a real pleasure to use and genuinely helped to wake me up. My skin didn’t feel as silky as it does after using creamier shower gels, but I must admit that it did feel much cleaner and more refreshed. I’ll definitely be using this whenever I need a pick-me-up.
Best for: Early mornings

L’OCCITANE CITRUS VERBENA FIZZY BATH SALTS, £14.70 for 250g (www.loccitane.co.uk)
What they say: Happily plunge into your bath water with this mix of bath salts, from Camargue, and fizzy sugar, that perfumes water while releasing millions of tiny and light bubbles! Its energizing and tonifying action, combined with a sparkling scent of citrus verbena provides a real moment of well-being and relaxation.
What we say: A clear jar with a traditional label, containing bright yellow nuggets of bath salts. The scent is powerfully reminiscent of fresh lemons.
The Results: This jar of bath salts reminded me of lemon sherbet – small nuggets, a sugary texture, and a gorgeous zesty scent. I ran a warm bath and, just before climbing in, threw a handful into the water. The salts began to fizz and fly around the surface of the water, which produced the beautiful scent of hundreds of fresh lemons. A little goes a long way and the jar would last for quite a while. I’m a shower person and really didn’t believe that a bath could wake me up, but you could never feel sleepy in this zingy water. There was a very light sprinkling of oil in the water too, which left my skin feeling gorgeous.
Best for: Reviving and refreshing

SPACE NK LAUGHTER EAU DE TOILETTE, £45 for 50ml (www.spacenk.co.uk)
What they say: Laughter is an uplifting, joyous fragrance, created by world-renowned perfumer, Christopher Sheldrake, who worked closely with Nicky Kinnaird to encapsulate cherished memories of her formative years in the Southern Mediterranean where the sun drenched orange groves sweep down to the sea.
What we say: Stylish lime green and purple packaging, containing a clear bottle of perfume with a silver logo. The fragrance is zingy, fresh, and very pretty.
The Results: I’m not a fan of heavy perfumes and usually stick to body sprays, so was very pleased when I was given this product to test and it turned out to be such a light and refreshing fragrance. The citrus notes are detectable, but there’s much more to it than a bowl of oranges and lemons. It smells very grown-up and stylish, but there’s a fun light-hearted element to it. The name – Laughter – sums it up perfectly. It lasted a good few hours before I needed to re-spray and I found myself sniffing at my pulse points to enjoy the scent throughout the day. I’ll be wearing it throughout January and hoping that it cheers up my fellow commuters on the morning commute!
Best for: Long-term results

Breaking News: STYLISH ORGANIC SKINCARE RANGE SUZANNE AUX BAINS ARRIVES IN THE UK (02.01.09)
Looking to start 2009 as you mean to go on, with natural eco-friendly beauty? Fresh from the Mediterranean shores comes a stylish new skincare range that will have green goddesses reeling with delight. Suzanne Aux Bains is animal-friendly, paraben-free, dermatologically-tested and has been developed without a smidgen of silicone, mineral-oils or GMO. The company also supports fair trade practices, organic farming and biodynamic agriculture, so even the most die-hard eco warriors can’t complain.
But it’s not just for tree-huggers. With the organic debate featuring heavily in the search for sustainable beauty, we all want to know exactly where the stuff we’re slapping onto our skin has been sourced. And that’s where beautiful new brands like this step in. All nine Suzanne Aux Bains products are derived from the brand’s bespoke Nutri-Détente plant complex, which is made up of three ingredients – apricot kernel oil, lime blossom extract or water and mallow flower extract. The properties of each combine to moisturise, nourish and regenerate skin cells, thus making them the perfect ingredients for an organic skincare range. Based on the three phases of bathing (before, during and after), the collection includes a day and night treatment, massage oil, hand cream and bath foam to name a few, although our favourite would have to be the Nourishing body milk, £22.50. Not only does it smell divine, but it also goes on like a dream, hydrating limbs every step of the way – just the ticket for the wintry months ahead. The Suzanne aux bains range is available from www.suzanneauxbains.com, www.beingcontent.com or call 01672 541690 for your nearest stockist.

Blog: NICOLA ELLIOTT – FOUNDER OF NEOM LUXURY ORGANICS – REVEALS THE PRODUCTS THAT FLEW OFF SHELVES THIS CHRISTMAS (02.01.09)
Christmas and the credit crunch, do not the best bed fellows make. But, having said that, I rather embraced (in a glamorous kind of way) the issue of prioritising my lust list this year, rather than the uber-consumption of Xmas 07 that now seems rather greedy. So this year, I was looking to invest only in beauty buys that a) really work b) make me feel seriously pampered (especially now that the January blues have hit) and me being me, c) are organic. You of course will have had your own priorities, but whoever you are and whatever turns your beauty button on, you must have prioritised when you headed out to the shops last month. This I think is a very good thing, because it forces us to look at what works best for us - and what makes us happiest. How many of your friends asked this Christmas for this season’s super trendy eye palette? Exactly. In fact, this year all the girls in my family just wanted ‘a really great mascara.’ At NEOM Luxury Organics we found in December that our new organic bath oils were flying off the shelves. When I asked Linda Reed, owner of the beautiful Studio Perfumery, in Primrose Hill why she thought we’d launched such a winner with this product, ‘Simple’, she replied, ‘my clients are cutting back on their nights out, they won’t buy that hundredth dress or yet another pair of shoes, but a bottle of organic oil that will last them 40 baths? Give them 40 ‘pieces of luxurious Real Luxury?’ Well, that somehow sounds like a pampering-treat-come-bargain!’ When all’s said and done I’m rather glad this crunch is a way of phasing out the beauty tat that we may have previously hoarded in our bathroom cabinets. Long may the best beauty products survive and all inferior products be pushed to the wayside! Nicola Elliott is Founder of NEOM Luxury Organics
www.NeomOrganics.Com

Breaking News: M.A.C COSMETICS LAUNCHES DAME EDNA EVERAGE COLLECTION (02.01.09)
Listen up possums… M.A.C Cosmetics has a treat in store for fans in 2009 – and it’s guaranteed to lift spirits on those dark January mornings. Dame Edna Everage is the muse of the brand’s post-Christmas collection, lending her fabulously overstated style to a range of lilac-hues (her hair, of course), shimmering highlighters (inspired by her warm fuzzy glow) and spectacular rhinestone-encrusted packaging (that fanciful wardrobe). The limited-edition collection includes three colour popping lipsticks (£11 each), three shimmering lipglasses (£10.50 each), two gleaming highlight powders (£17 each), and two glossy nail lacquers (£8 each). Our favourite, however, are the eye colour trios – two tempting palettes containing colours that pay homage to Dame Edna’s style, yet will look simply stunning on your peepers too. Each of the palettes will set you back £26. So, why have the people at M.A.C chosen Dame Edna at their muse? It all becomes clear when we are reminded that she is (in her own rather modest words) “probably the most popular and gifted woman in the world today: housewife, investigative journalist, social anthropologist, talk-show host, children’s book illustrator, spin doctor, megastar, and Icon”. It may not compete with the more technically advanced ranges hitting shelves in 2009, but few collections could rival it for the fun-factor. And underneath all that sparkling packaging, the makeup is really quite fabulous too. Go out and indulge possums, you’ll thank us for it. The collection is on shelves now. Visit www.maccosmetics.co.uk for more information.

Spa & Treatment: AMANDA LACEY (02.01.09)
Location: 46 Walton Street, Chelsea, London, SW3 1RB. 020 7584 0500. www.amandalacey.com
Facilities: Any spa, salon or beauty parlour where you have to ring a doorbell to be let in screams exclusivity, but don’t let that put you off – at Amanda Lacey it’s purely for convenience factor, owing to the fact the clinic is neatly divided over two floors. Upstairs you’ll find the product display area where you can peruse and purchase her signature skincare range, a velvet pouffe which constitutes the client waiting area, and a padded wall panel that reveals a secret door leading to the main treatment room (think The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe). Travel down the spiral staircase and you’ll be greeted with a much smaller space and second treatment room - home to Amanda’s assistant, Liz. Admittedly not the largest of locations, it effects nothing in the way of style or substance and if anything, simply adds to its refined reputation. Kitted out in bright white with gleaming glass shelves and glossy surfaces, there is without doubt a nod to a more clinical colour scheme, but this is seamlessly balanced against soft lighting, tactile texturing and quirky design details (for all of you fact fans, the petals in the Amanda Lacey logo may look generic, but they’re actually a repeat profile print of Amanda’s face). Even the treatment rooms are top-to-bottom white with just a scattering of spotlights breaking the monochromic mood, but instead of being dull and dreary, the result instantly induces calm, and is a warm welcome from the dark, draped therapy areas.
Ambience: Despite her name emblazoned above the door, her close-knit circle of celebrity fans, and the uber-luxe location, Amanda Lacey and her staff are incredibly down-to-earth. It’s clear her clients haven’t just rocked up from a shopping spree at Primark, after all, Harrods is round the corner, but there isn’t an ounce of pretentiousness in the air. The onus is on you enjoying your experience, and from the fluffy white towels to the complimentary post-treatment tea, you feel nurtured from the moment you step inside.
Treatment Tested: Signature Facial, £130
Performed by Amanda’s assistant Liz (a facial with Amanda starts at £250), this hour-long signature treatment can be described as nothing less than first-class. Beginning with a customised cleansing routine to remove any traces of makeup and dirt, this is where the similarities with all other facials finished. Next up was a unique paraffin-wax face mask. A technique more commonly used in pedicures, the wax is Amanda’s very own variant that makes it suitable for the face. Working to draw out toxins and soften skin as it goes, the toasty-warm wax was brushed on and then left to harden while Liz got to grips with fixing any wayward brows. Not a compulsory part of the treatment, it’s always a pleasant surprise to get a little extra included and what better time to indulge in a quick eyebrow tidy? Once the brows were looking beautiful, the wax was ready to be peeled off, and instead of just a quick tone and moisturise to end, Liz finished the facial with a wonderfully relaxing lymphatic drainage face and neck massage to release any tension, smooth the skin and leave it looking suitably sparkling – it’s no wonder Gwyneth Paltrow’s such an avid fan!