Archive - September 2008

BLOG: LYN HARRIS - THE CREATOR OF  MILLER HARRIS PERFUME - SHARES  HER FRAGRANT THOUGHTS
There’s something quite exciting about this time of year heralded by that first bite of freshness in the air; that earthy, autumnal aroma, wet and mossy; the scent of bonfires; and old, remembered smells of books and new shoes for school.
For me, September means change. Fashion and food aside, it’s a chance to awaken old rituals in your beauty regime.
Discover sensual, enveloping fragrances that compliment your Autumn wardrobe. And as the dark nights draw in, fill your home with the beauty of scented candles.
I wanted to capture the contrast of crisp, cold air and the warmth and sweet earthiness of forest floors and fallen leaves in my fragrance Terre de Bois, which marries bright notes of juniper and fennel with grounding accents of patchouli, vertiver and verbena. Sprayed onto a scarf before heading out into the cold and awakens my senses to this wonderful season.
Finally, surrender your senses to richly scented bath oils. Few things beat the luxury and extravagance of an hour-long candle-lit soak in the bath with a delicious scented bath oil to pamper and scent your skin.
Visit www.millerharris.com

SPA REVIEW: Austin’s

Location: Austin’s Salon and Spa, Lower Ground Floor, Austin Reed, 103-113 Regent Street, London W1B 4HL. 0207 5347719.
Facilities: Whether you are a Londoner heading into town, or a visitor to the city looking for some serious retail therapy, there is one place that is bound to be on your hit-list: Oxford Circus. And after all that shopping, what better way to round off the day than by stepping off the packed pavements and heading to a chic urban spa for some pampering? Austin’s Salon and Spa is just the place, being just a stone’s throw away from the main shopping stretch, occupying space on the lower ground of Austin Reed on Regent Street. The interior is impressive and stylish, boasting original art-deco fixtures dating back to the 1920’s. If that isn’t enough to tempt you inside, the extensive and affordable treatment menu certainly will. Got your other half in tow? Treat him to a traditional wet shave, while you enjoy a luxury facial or indulgent body treatment.
Ambience: While Austin’s is quieter than the bustling pavements above, it retains the buzzing ambience that you would expect from this part of town. The open plan reception area and hair salon is brightly lit and the staff warm and chatty. The spa is highly popular and gets busy, so forward bookings are strongly recommended. If you’re looking for something a bit more tranquil, book a facial or body treatment. It doesn’t take long to zone out in the private treatment rooms, which feature dimmed lighting, a serene soundtrack, and plush towelled beds.
Treatment Tested: Neck, Back and Shoulder Massage, £35 I visited Austin’s after a long day shopping and booked a massage to revive my aching muscles – it turned out to be an inspired choice. The therapist used her palm, elbow, and forearm to work deep into the muscles and ease tension. She checked at the beginning of the treatment that the pressure was to my liking and kept it constant throughout. She worked on my lower and middle back, before moving onto my shoulders and neck. At the end of the massage, I felt both relaxed and revitalised. The treatment is well worth the affordable price tag – I will definitely be back.

Breaking News: WORLD’S FIRST ANTI-AGE PERFUME LAUNCHES
Forget cosmetic surgery – anti-ageing is getting a whole lot easier and more affordable. Ageless Fantasy, billed as “the world's first and only anti-age perfume” is making its UK debut this month. Already a huge success in the US, the fragrance is launching exclusively at Harvey Nichols.
So, how does it work? Created by US niche fragrance company Harvey Prince, the formula is based on natural bio-chemistry. Spritz it onto pulse points and the perfume will negate the skin's natural (and age revealing) scent, replacing it with a fragrance that gives a younger and more youthful impression.
The secret is in the ingredients… The blended tropical notes of pineapple, mango and leafy greens are often associated with positive childhood memories, thus giving the impression of youth and joy. Added to these scents are mid-tones of indulgent, creamy florals, including jasmine and cherry blossom. Finally, soft musk, dry woods and vanilla create an earthy, natural fragrance. Combined with antioxidant pomegranate, Ageless Fantasy achieves powerful euphoric properties and sets off a feeling of youth and excitement.
During research, men were asked to guess the age of women wearing the scent and gave answers, on average, that were eight years younger. It’s enough to convince us to run out and get our hands on a bottle – I suspect we’ll be meeting you in the queue.
Ageless Fantasy is available exclusively from Harvey Nichols and retails at £59 for 100ml. Call 020 7235 5000 or visit www.harveynichols.com

Breaking News: ORIGINS APPEALS FOR YOUR HELP
Get your knitting needles ready! Origins are appealing for a little home-spun help this autumn to help them raise money for the homeless charity Shelter.
The company will donate £1 from the sale of every Origins Ginger Essence Sensuous skin scent, Intensified Fragrance Spray and Ginger Gift Set to the charity, thus helping to house the homeless during the cold Christmas period. Each bottle will be decorated with a home-knitted scarf, to tempt customers as it sits on the frosty winter shelf – and that’s where you come in…
Origins are relying on kind-hearted members of the public to knit the scarves and help them raise as much money as possible for the charity. Want to get involved? Here’s how to help.
1. Choose your favourite Christmas coloured wool – the brighter the better. You can use any type or thickness.
2. For double knitting yarn and 4mm needles cast on 4 stitches and then knit forty rows – or around 25cm – before casting off.
3. Get creative! Make your scarf stand out by adding your own personal touches – add glitter, tassles, patterns etc.
4. When you've finished, pop it in the post addressed to: Origins Ginger Knits, 73 Grosvenor Street, London, W1K 3BQ. Make sure they arrive before 20 November 2008.
You won’t be the only one getting creative for the cause – Julien MacDonald, Alice Temperley and Jenny Packham are among the top designers lending a helping hand.
The Origins Ginger Essence bottles will be in store and online from 1st-24th December. For more information on Shelter visit www.shelter.org.uk

Feature: LOVE TO SPA? (26.09.08)

There are few better ways to unwind than by taking time out in a luxurious spa, but, like everything good in life, the visits never arrive quickly enough.
We’ve found six delicious spa treatments to look forward to – and six ways to recreate the experience at home while you’re waiting…

CANDLE LIGHT: It’s no great mystery why some of the best spas in the country shun electricity in favour of a generous scattering of candles - step into a room filled with a warm flickering light and richly fragranced air and the mind is eased within seconds.
At the Spa
Step inside Portland Hall Spa, hidden behind the façade of an old Synagogue in the heart of Southport in North West England, and you enter a candlelit paradise. Whether you are relaxing in the spa pool under the stunning Moroccan arches, enjoying a mud treatment in the Rasul, or winding down with a luxe treatment, you will be surrounded by the soft dancing silhouettes of hundreds of candles. The ambience is exotic, soothing, and incredibly peaceful.
What to book: Pamper yourself and a partner by booking the Spa Ritual for Two, £228 (www.portlandhallspa.com). A day of pure indulgence that includes private use of the candlelit pool, time in the Moroccan Suite, an Elemis massage in a double treatment-room, lunch, pedicures, and chocolate and champagne to round off the day.
At home
 Candlelight is probably the easiest and most effective way to recreate your spa experience at home. Simply switch off the light, dot candles around the bathroom, and lay back as the flickering light eases every tension in your body.
What to buy: What could be more self-indulgent than champagne in the bath? Cocoribbon CR Bespoke Scented Candle, £30 (www.cocoribbon.com) contains notes of champagne, wild cranberry, and Indonesian patchouli. The result is a luxurious fragrance that will take you straight back to pampering days spent in the spa. Worth the investment? Absolutely. Laugh in the face of the credit crunch and buy dozens, dotting them liberally around the room.

HAIR TREATMENTS: Hair gets a rough deal in the pampering stakes, rarely being the top priority when there’s space in the diary to treat yourself. It might be time for rethink. Hair treatments have become big business in the last year or so, with ever more ingenious salon-treatments on offer and ever more indulgent home-treatments to slap on in the privacy of your own bathroom.
At the Salon
 Whether you want to boost shine, plump up volume, or to simply feel spoilt, heading to a hair salon can be a deliciously indulgent experience. Not only will you leave feeling relaxed and revived, but you will also have a glossy new mane to show for your troubles.
What to book: Leading the hair treatment revolution is top London salon Hari’s. Hailed as ‘Viagra for Hair’ the Hari’s Aberdeen Organic Treatment, £55 (0207 581 5211) promises to leave your hair with an unbelievable sheen. The magic ingredients (wait for it) are Aberdeen Angus bull semen and Katera. The thankfully odourless masque is applied to wet hair with a divine head massage, and left to work its magic for 30 minutes.
At Home
 Sometimes shampoo and conditioner aren’t enough to revive limp locks. It’s time to turn to the strong stuff. Once a week, treat your hair to an intensive shot of moisture.
What to buy: Choose ESPA Pink Hair and Scalp Mud, £29 (0845 6800772). There’s something terribly tempting about this pot of rose-coloured mud, which is packed full of mineral-rich red and white clay. Run yourself a bath, smooth it generously over your locks while you relax in the warmth, and rinse to reveal silky smooth, ultra-manageable tresses.

THE SHOWER: You jump in the shower every day – but how often have you lingered long enough under the water to really pamper yourself? Spas frequently harness the power of water to indulge and rejuvenate guests – pick the right products and you can easily do the same at home.
At the Spa
Where better to rediscover the joy of water than at a spa perched spectacularly above the ocean? The place to head is St Brides Spa Hotel, which boasts unrivalled views over the sandy shores of Carmarthen Bay in Pembrokeshire, Wales. Water is the inspiration wherever you turn – from the fabulously refreshing range of sensation showers, to the floor-to-ceiling windows that allow you to peep out at the sea as you enjoy a treatment.
What to book: Book into the Thermal Suite, from £25 (01834 815075). Showers are a focal point – enjoy the massaging swan shower in the stunning vitality pool, refresh skin in the range of sensation showers (we recommend the cooling mist, which instantly revives the body after a spell in the sauna), and feel the benefits of the eucalyptus-scented rain in the salt-infused grotto. Who ever thought that falling water could be so indulgent?
At Home
 It’s time to chuck out that old bottle of body wash. Shower gels might not be known for their luxurious qualities, but look in the right places and you will find some seriously pampering products that will transform your morning shower into a delicious spa ritual. Turn the heat up and, most importantly, take your time.
What to Buy: Treat yourself to a bottle of Rituals Shanti Shower Nourishing Shower Paste, £7.90 (www.rituals.com) – one sniff and you’ll be hooked. The rich gel is enriched with Sweet Almond Oil and Indian Rose, which will instantly soothe a troubled mind and leave skin feeling butter soft. Better still, the luxe fragrance will linger on your skin all day.

BODY TREATMENTS: If the body is our temple, it definitely deserves a right royal pampering every now and again. But with ever more inventive body treatments making it onto spa menus, a simple massage just wont cut it. The dream treatment needs to leave muscles pummelled, the mind relaxed, and the skin glowing.
At the Spa
If you haven’t yet experienced a Decléor treatment, you need to block off some time in the diary. Available nationwide, they are less treatments and more total body rituals, with you playing the starring role. If you’ve ever wondered how it feels to be a VIP, this is probably it. The products are divine – inhale deeply and frequently as you this is one aroma you are not going to want to forget.
What to Book: Book yourself in for the Decléor Aroma Envelopment Relax, from £45 (0207 3138780), but be warned – you will need to cancel any other plans that day. The delicious combination of an all-over body exfoliation (not your average scrub, but a deep massage with a gentle polish), a creamy body mask (while you lie cocooned in a heated blanket), and a generous application of body oil (your skin will never have felt so soft) will leave you so relaxed you’ll be ready to head home and do very little for the rest of the day.
At Home
 Of course, there’s nothing better than letting a therapist do the hard work for you, but in between appointments there’s no excuse not to keep skin in tip-top condition. Choose the right at-home products and you’ll be counting down the days until the next quiet night in.
What to buy: Regularly exfoliate your skin with a luxurious body scrub – choose one that is packed with essential oils to moisturise your skin as it polishes. Indulge your sweet tooth with the rich and creamy Laura Mercier Crème Brulee Sugar Scrub, £35 (www.spacenk.co.uk). Next, slather your skin with a generous layer of body butter – thin lotions wont do, it needs to be thick and uber-moisturising. Use Clinique Deep Comfort Body Butter, £19.50 (www.clinique.co.uk) just once and you will fall head over heels.

THE BATH: How long is it since you enveloped your body in the comforting heat of a long indulgent bath? Never underestimate the power of that tub in the corner of the bathroom – it has the power to relax and revive within seconds. Spas have long been combining the powers of heat and water – and it couldn’t be easier to do the same at home.
At the Spa
Grayshott Spa, tucked away in a quiet corner of Surrey, is a luxury destination hotel that boasts one of the most talked-about health spas in the country. Treat yourself to an overnight stay in the decadent manor house, once home to poet Lord Tennyson no less – or simply turn up for the day to hide away from the world in a fluffy bathrobe. For hydrotherapy – that’s the use of water to ease tense muscles and minds to you and me – this place should be top of your hit list.
What to book: For the ultimate in hydro-relaxation, book yourself in for the Hydrotherapy Marine Mineral Bath, £35 for 20mins or £50 for 40mins (www.grayshottspa.com). The water is rich in mineral extracts, which contain natural sea plants that are enriched with minerals, trace elements, and vitamins. All combine to balance the body’s equilibrium and metabolism. Underwater massage jets relieve and tone muscles, whilst stimulating the lymphatic system and circulation. In our opinion, it’s more therapeutic than an hour-long massage.
At home
 Think of your bathroom as your personal spa – switch on some ambient music, line every surface with fragrant candles, and run a deep bath. Most importantly, invest in products that will go a step further than simply creating a mountain of bubbles.
What to buy: Bring a little of the exotic to your bathroom with Dr. Weil for Origins The Way of the Bath Matcha Tea Body Soak, £35 (www.origins.co.uk). Inspired by a traditional Japanese Tea ceremony, the body soak infuses skin with vital antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, while revitalising the flow of energy in your body. We can guarantee that you won’t want to climb out.

FACIALS: The jury is still out over whether having regular facials provides dramatic long-term improvement to the skin – but whatever you believe, there’s no debating that a long pampering facial is a fabulous way to unwind.
At the Spa
Unlike a massage, where your nose is buried within a pile of fluffy towels, a facial allows you to inhale the fragrances that surround you. Pick an Aromatherapy Associates facial and those wafting scents certainly wont disappoint. Available nationwide, there are plenty to choose from – pick a treatment that suits your mood, lie back, and enjoy.
What to book: For pure indulgence, pick the Aromatherapy Associates Renew Rose Total Indulgence Facial, £60 for 80 minutes (www.aromatherapyassociates.com). The treatment starts with a back and shoulder massage to ease away the day’s stresses and strains, before the therapist moves onto a heavenly scalp massage using Frankincense inhalation to slow the breathing and relax the senses. The skin is then cleansed, toned, and moisturised, before a mask in applied, and hands and arms are treated to a soothing massage with rose-infused oils and creams. The result? Skin that is silky soft and delicately scented, and a complexion that is polished, toned, and radiant.
At home
Forget your regular skin care routine… Every now and again you deserve to pamper your skin with a combination of products that are far too delicious to be used every single day. Keep them under lock and key.
What to buy: Your cleanser should be gentle and pampering – try REN Mayblossom and Blue Cypress Balancing Facial Cleansing Gel, £16.50 (www.spacenk.co.uk), which dissolves sebum and removes impurities, allowing the skin to breathe freely. For exfoliation, pick a product that will soothe the skin, while gently polishing the surface. Elemis Gentle Rose Exfoliator, £23 (www.timetospa.co.uk) is infused with Moroccan Rose and Jojoba Beads to leave skin softly buffed and glowing. Finally, the pièce de résistance, invest in an ultra-rich face mask. Chanel Nourishing Cream-Gel Mask, £30 (0207 493 3836) will gently transform stressed or lacklustre skin into something to be proud of (we’re pretty sure you’ll enjoy applying it too).

Tried & Tested: NEW FRAGRANCES (26.09.08)
Every season deserves a new scent... We test six of the most tempting new fragrance launches for autumn.

CHANEL NO.5 EAU PREMIÉRE VAPORISATEUR SPRAY, £67 for 75ml (0207 493 3836)

What they say: If No.5 were a painting, Eau Premiere would not be a sketch, but a watercolour. It possesses all the pastel tones and transparency of water… An abstract bouquet heightened with the freshness of pearly dew on newly opened buds. The ylang-ylang is lighter and more discreet, offering softness and freshness.
What we say: In chic monochrome packaging, Eau Premiere is the latest fragrance to be added to the Chanel portfolio. The scent retains the timeless elegance of No.5, but is softer and a touch more modern.
The Results: I’ve smelt Chanel No.5 many times – my mother has always worn it on special occasions – but have always felt it was a bit too grown-up for me. When I heard that the fragrance house had introduced a lighter version, I was chomping at the bit to try it. I’m not at all disappointed and have been wearing it every day since. It’s very similar to the original version, but it doesn’t take a trained nose to detect that the scent is fresher. For me, it’s still an occasion perfume – for wearing on romantic nights out, for lunch with friends, or to special events – but the bottle has taken pride of place on my dressing table.
Best for: Special Occasions

BURBERRY LONDON FOR WOMEN: LIMITED EDITION EAU DE PARFUM, £53.50 for 100ml (0845 769 7072)
What they say: A blend of modern and contrasted freshness opens the composition with bitter and vibrant sensations; the zestiness of grapefruit, the lusciousness of pear nectar and spiciness of pink pepper. The heart of the fragrance is characterised by the very feminine and truly British garden rose. Together with white tulip and a touch of honeysuckle, it creates a crisp and floral bouquet. A vibrant woodiness finalises the fragrance with notes of patchouli, mahogany and musks. What we say: Stylish bronze packaging containing a chunky bottle covered in metallic faux leather. A unique, but elegant fragrance. The Results: I hate smelling the same as everyone else and have long been searching for a fragrance that has something different. I think I have found it in Burberry’s latest fragrance. Firstly, I love the packaging, which is simple but very cool. While the fragrance is floral, this is not at all shabby and traditional – my granny definitely wouldn’t wear it! It’s quite chic and ladylike, but there are peppery and spicy notes to give it a modern edge. Best for: Fashionistas

BENEFIT B SPOT EAU DE TOILETTE, £26.50 for 50ML (www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk)

What they say: Every gal's got one (a few, actually)... b spots, that is. Awaken your most seductive pulse points with this new fragrance from Benefit. It's a sexy combo of lush mango; faster freesia; provocative peony & steamy sandalwood... and don't forget to shake, shake, shake your amber, baby!
What we say: Funky mint green packaging, containing a handbag-sized bottle of perfume. The scent is fun, frivolous, and somehow very sexy.
The Results: Wow! When I first sprayed this onto my pulse points (as instructed by the handy diagram on the back of the box), the scent was punchy and very fruity. As it settled on my skin, it became deeper and very sexy. When I saw the packaging, I was expecting something quite young and flirtatious – true, but the musk notes give it an unexpected and sensual edge. It’s perfectly suited to a big night out with the girls – I think it would even fit into my clutch!
Best for: A big night out

SPACE NK TUBEROLI EAU DE TOILETTE, £40 for 50ml (www.spacenk.co.uk)
What they say: Reminiscent of a romantic weekend in Rome, Tuberoli fragrance evokes a sense of indulgent femininity and  intrigue. A flirtatious, white floral blend of tuberose, neroli and ylang ylang envelope a sensuous base of blackcurrant leaves and luscious peach. What we say: A feminine fragrance, with pink packaging and a rose-tinted curved bottle. The scent is deliciously floral, yet heady notes of neroli and tuberose blend to give it instant sophistication.The Results: When I first picked up the bottle and sniffed, I was quite surprised by the combination of scents. It’s a floral fragrance, yet quite heady, with deep musky notes. I spritzed it onto my wrists and was instantly smitten. I’ve been wearing it to work, which suits the perfume perfectly – it acts as a pick-me-up when I’m sat at my desk, yet is serious enough to be reapplied liberally before a big business meeting. Best for: Wearing to work

KYLIE MINOGUE SEXY DARLING EAU DE TOILETTE, £26 for 50ML (www.kylie.com)

What they say: Sexy Darling’s sensuality is built around the natural floral sexiness of the exotic de nuit flower and the red rose, enhanced by a mouth-watering pear note. A veil of musk and sandalwood unite them for a unique, exquisite signature.
What we say: A passionate fragrance, presented in black and scarlet red packaging. The scent is sweet, feminine, and flirtatious.
The Results: I’m a perfume junkie, yet usually ignore the celebrity fragrances on the shelf - probably because I don’t expect them to be grown-up enough for my taste. Testing this bottle has changed my attitude completely. Kylie’s latest fragrance is best described as delicious – to me, it smells like a mixture of candyfloss and deep red dewy roses. It’s surprisingly sexy and more sophisticated that it sounds – it’s definitely not aimed at teenage girls. I’ve never had a perfume before that I have applied at home just for the pleasure of wearing it, but am doing so regularly.
Best for: Treating yourself

DKNY WOMEN ENERGISING EAU DE PARFUM, £35 for 100ML (www.boots.com)
What they say: DKNY Energising Eau de Parfum opens with top notes of juicy grapefruit and wet greens, mixed with nuances of pomegranate nectar and rich fig. The heart is a bouquet of orange flower and mimosa, frangipani, gardenia and spiced poppy. A fusion of light and dark woods add the sensual finish.
What we say: Stylish metallic copper packaging, containing a tall sunset-orange bottle. A fun, lighthearted, and very wearable fragrance.
The Results: With the name ‘Energising’, I was expecting something quite exciting and explosive – and I wasn’t disappointed. As the fragrance settled, the punchy fruit notes jumped up from my skin. I could instantly detect grapefruit, pomegranate and fig. It’s definitely enough to wake you up! Within a few minutes, the scent became warmer and more floral and lingered on my skin for a good few hours. I’d recommend this fragrance for the weekend – it isn’t perhaps heavy enough for a night out, but is perfectly suited to cold autumn days spent at home or out and about.
Best for: Weekend wear

Blog: DAILY EXPRESS WRITER CLAIRE BRAYFORD DISCOVERS THAT SKIN CARE IS A BIG PRIORITY ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE POND

In the States the average working woman is as likely to have a dermatologist on their speed dial as a doctor. While we Brits only grumble about the state of our skin, in America they actually do something about it.
On a trip to New York last weekend to interview Sex and the City stylist Patricia Field, I was struck by the sheer number of impossibly luminous, expensive-looking complexions running around Manhattan – it didn’t matter that their outfits were from Macy’s, their skin was pure Fifth Avenue.
Thankfully, that results-driven mentality is seeping over here too. Non-surgical medi-spas that bridge the gap between mudpacks and full-on facelifts, are cropping up on high streets up and down the country. I went to meet Dr Geoffrey Mullan co-founder of Medicetics, an aesthetic surgeon who believes that cosmetic procedures are just another part of a healthy lifestyle, like a yoga class or eating five-a-day. I was blown away by how easy he made tackling persistent skin problems sound.
I have always accepted that the acne which flares up on my jawline was as much a part of me as brown hair and freckles, but apparently that isn’t so. After nearly 20 years in the business and over 700 surgical procedures there is nothing this man doesn’t know about skin. He made removing my acne scarring sound like a walk in the park and showed me pictures of a 17-year-old acne sufferer who for the first time in his life no longer had angry active spots.
For the first time in my life I felt I had found a doctor who understood just how debilitating skin problems can be, as well as convincing me that a flawless face really is within all of our reach.
Yes it is expensive, treatments start from £95 for a medi-facial, but I do believe that beautiful skin is the hottest accessory you can ever own, and I work in fashion so that’s saying something.
020 7402 2033 www.medicetics.com

Breaking News: SHU UEMURA LAUNCH THE TOKYO LASH BAR
When iconic makeup artist Shu Uemura died last year, the beauty world was left reeling. Uncertainty followed, with many questioning the longevity of the brand without the creative force of Uemura at its helm.
Nine months later and the brand is proving it still leads the way in makeup and colour innovation. The latest offering, the Tokyo Lash Bar, is testament to that. Shu Uemura’s successor Kakuyasu Uchiide, who has been designing for the company for twenty years, is launching six statement lashes and two Premium Edition sets, each beautifully hand-made.
These are no average lashes… Included in the collection is ‘mini indigo’ - yellow, black, and indigo blue strands combining to form a stunning set of mini lashes. When applied to the outer corner of the eye, they add volume and a sultry feline flick. ‘Dazzling Sapphire Diamante’ offers a line of deep blue Swarovski crystals along the lash line and ‘Retro Graphic’ has a chic monochrome graphic print along an extended eyeliner strip. All retail at £16.
A highlight of the 2008 Premium Editions is the incredible ‘Black Gown’ lashes (pictured) – made from black lace that casts alluring shadows across the face, they are bang on trend for Autumn/Winter 08. They retail at £26.
These lashes are all about extravagance and innovation and definitely not for the faint hearted. But to all those Shu Uemura lovers out there, enjoy!
On shelves now. For more details call 020 7235 2375.

ENGLISH ROSE TREATMENT, SPA INTERCONTINENTAL LONDON PARK LANE
Tested by Louise Emma Clarke
What it promises: The English Rose Treatment is the InterContinental’s newest signature beauty treatment. Inspired by each letter of the word ‘rose’, the blissful 2-hour experience is designed to leave you feeling relaxed, oxygenated, sensual, and energised.
What happens: As soon as I approached the grand entrance of the InterContinental Hotel on London’s Park Lane, passing two parked Ferraris and a scattering of glamorous hotel residents, I knew I was in for a treat. I made my way upstairs to the chic urban spa and was ushered into a private treatment room featuring mood lighting – I was even asked what colour I preferred. The therapist started by preparing a warm footbath filled with rose petals, before cleansing, scrubbing and massaging my feet as they soaked in the sweet water. Moving onto my upper body, I enjoyed a heavenly back, neck, and shoulder massage using warm rose oils. The therapist danced silently around me (I wished I could muster the energy to open my eyes and watch her) using a combination of Balinese, Hawaiian, and Hot Stone massage. At one point she even climbed onto the bed, so fluidly I hardly even noticed. The blissful treatment concluded with an Elemis Visible Brilliance Facial, using rose oil compresses and products tailored specifically to my skin. As the mask worked its magic, an arm and scalp massage completed the top-to-toe treatment.
Results: As I sat in the spa lounge after the treatment (eating Rose chocolates and drinking White Peony Tea with organic rosebuds) I felt so relaxed that I doubted my ability to carry on working that afternoon. This is the perfect treatment – it left my feet buffed and silky smooth, my muscles pummeled and relaxed, and my face literally glowing with radiance. I can’t recommend it highly enough.
Price: £180 for 2 hours
Location: Spa InterContinental, One Hamilton Place, Park Lane, London W1J 7QY. 0207 3188691. www.spaintercontinental.com

Feature: BEAUTY MYTHS EXPOSED (19.09.08)

Think you’re pretty clued up when it comes to beauty? It might be time for a rethink. We take a look at six commonly-believed beauty myths and expose them as true or false.

MYTH: ANY EYE CREAM IS BETTER THAN NONE - FALSE!
The skin around your eyes is so delicate and so much thinner than the rest of your face that using the wrong cream in the wrong way can be counter-productive. Cheap, oily creams can make dark circles more congested and puffiness worse, and heavy-handed application can deepen crow’s feet – in beauty terms, a category A disaster.
So, what’s the answer? Start by investing in a top quality eye cream – it’s an area of skincare where you really get what you pay for. Opt for dermatologist-created brands with high levels of active ingredients, like retinol A, alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), copper peptides, vitamin C and antioxidant idebenone. Leaf and Rusher Tx Eyes, £68 (www.spacenk.com) was created by US plastic surgeon Dr Norman Leaf and collagen specialist Rand Rusher, using a potent mix of vitamins and blue algae to smooth skin in just a few weeks. Try Dr Sebagh’s For Your Eyes Only, £38 (www.spacenk.co.uk) for its light texture, or the incredible Hylexin Strivectin, £95 (www.harveynichols.com) which has achieved amazing results erasing dark circles in trials.
Superdrug’s new Beautician’s Secret range has the marvellous Eye Lift, £14.95 (Superdrug Stores Nationwide), using the advanced peptide complex Eyeseryl to reduce water retention, and therefore puffiness and discolouration (a staggering 95 per cent of volunteers saw an improvement in their under-eye bags in 30 days).
Finally, remember that it ain’t what you do, it’s the way that you do it. Elemis supremo Noella Gabriel says: “It’s easy to pull and tug the eye area, so always apply eye products with your ring finger to respect the fine texture of the skin, applying from the outer to the inner corner of the eye without dragging.” Two wonderfully soothing eye creams from Elemis Bright Eyes Recovery Gel, £36, and Pro-Collagen Eye Renewal £55 (www.elemis.com) - will banish tiredness without overloading the eye area. Esther Fieldgrass, founder of London’s EF MediSpa (020 7310 8786) goes one step further: “Too much eye cream can create fatty deposits under the eye and no products should be used on the lid of the eye as the skin there is so thin it will be absorbed though the eyelid and leave a film on the eye. And always buy from a clinic or medispa as the skincare brands there will contain higher levels of active ingredients and can be recommended specifically for you following a professional consultation.”

MYTH: YOU SHOULD VISIT THE HAIRDRESSER ONCE EVERY SIX WEEKS - TRUE!
Relax, it’s not for the reason you think. These days, all the best hair salons are focused on condition rather than cutting two inches off that bob you’ve been growing out for the past six months. A regular visit IS vital, but no longer is it to trim – it’s to trouble-spot and build tip-top health into your hair.
Paul Mitchell’s Editorial Director, Lucie Doughty, who also works as a celeb hairstylist in LA, explains the trend: “Celeb-shiny hair is what every woman wants these days. Salons are now all about nurturing relationships with their clients and offering new services to keep hair in top condition without the cost. Go often and your hairdresser can see exactly what’s going on with your hair and recommend services that may help extend the life of your expensive cut or colour, like for example, the new Paul Mitchell PM Shines Treatment (www.paulmitchell.com) that lifts colour while adding shine for about half the cost of a tint retouch”.
Regular visits are good for pampering too, in the same way you might indulge in a pedicure as a pick-me-up. Lucie says: “Top salons are turning the shampoo bowl into a place where they can build in stress-relieving head massage and hair repair treatments. This area’s even being adorned with candlelight, soft music, and relaxing fragrances to turn it into a get-away, ‘think spa’.”
Kerastase is leading the way in this new focus on condition. Their salons are offering Experience Rituals (www.kerastase.co.uk), which include a hair and scalp analysis, massage and full repair treatment for whatever needs your tresses may have, from fine and flyaway to sun-damaged. No scissors in sight...
Can’t afford regular visits? Try a super-boosting conditioning treatment at home. Philip Kingsley says: “Hair needs regular treatments, but an at-home treatment every now and again can be as effective as a salon alternative”. Pop on his world famous Elasticizer, £22 (www.philipkingsley.com) conditioner, bundle hair into the shower cap provided and cover with a warm towel, for salon-standard results.

MYTH: FACIALS ARE ALWAYS WORTH THE MONEY - FALSE!
It’s a chance to de-stress and be pampered: but is that all a facial offers? Yes, say many beauty editors, including This Morning’s Nadine Baggott, who claims: “The best facials leave your skin looking amazing, but, to me, the effects simply don’t last long enough to warrant the cost. Not when so many great beauty companies offer at-home treatments like peels, masks and microdermabrasion kits”.
Holistic beauty legend Bharti Vyas agrees: “There is no doubt that a facial is wonderfully restorative, but it’s possible to re-create a facial experience at home and all it really takes is a few minutes at the beginning and end of each day to keep your complexion in great condition. Enjoy an occasional facial, but if you maintain a solid and effective skincare regime in between, you’ll get the most from your facial rather than having to address specific problems”.
Bharti’s newly relaunched Skin Wisdom range at Tesco has a brilliant exfoliator to keep skin sparkling - Skin Wisdom Instant Benefits Gentle Botanical Derma Polish, £5.99 – and an intensive balm to recreate that post-facial glow: Skin Wisdom Instant Benefits Instant Beauty Balm, £5.99 (Tesco Stores Nationwide). For a major at-home beauty boost, though, try Dermalogica’s Multivitamin Power Recovery Masque, £26.80 (www.dermalogica.com) for a deep-penetrating shot of nutrients, teamed with Sisley Eye Contour Mask, £55 (www.sisley-cosmetics.co.uk) – in 20 minutes your face will have lost five years, guaranteed. Follow that up with an overnight repair balm: Darphin Aromatic Renewing Balm, £38 (www.darphin.co.uk) is hard to beat.

MYTH: SMALL CHANGES CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE - TRUE!
You don’t have to spend hours on perfecting your make-up every day: getting the basics right will frame your face and let your natural beauty shine through. There are two quick fixes that are guaranteed to lift and brighten your look, making you glow even on your worst days.
Firstly, teeth whitening. Top cosmetic dentist Dr Justin Glaister says: “Teeth whitening can have an incredible impact on facial features and even an anti ageing effect. As people age, their teeth naturally become darker, and smoking, drinking tea, coffee and red wine, as well as other coloured foods and drinks, can contribute to this. White teeth are therefore associated with a youthful smile and so whitening can make you appear younger and healthier”.
The latest way to a set of gleaming gnashers is the combined whitening treatment. Dentists make a special tray to fit the exact shape of your teeth which you then use at home for seven consecutive days for two hours at a time. Back in the clinic, your dentist backs this up with the Zoom Advanced Power treatment, which takes only 45 minutes, is pain-free and poses no risk to teeth. You can expect to pay around £595 for the home treatment and £495 for the Zoom Advanced Power but the results are long-lasting and – even better – there every day, giving you a perfect smile. Ask your dentist or click on www.umbrellasmiles.com for details.
Next up, sexy, streamlined eyebrows. Make-up artist Joanna Humphreys claims that: “Cleaning up your eyebrow shape is the quickest way to make your eyes pop and your cheekbones more noticeable”. Enlist some expert help for this: most Estee Lauder counters offer a fab brow-shaping service, or go to the best, and sign up with a Shavata salon (across London: www.shavata.co.uk). “Having a professional eyebrow shaping will create a lifting effect around the eye area, and reduce the prominence of wrinkles. It’s quick, simple and takes just minutes to enhance your features dramatically,” says eyebrow queen Shavata Singh, who’s worked her magic on everyone from Natalie Imbruglia to Elle Macpherson.

MYTH: PARTS OF THE FACE AGE AT DIFFERENT RATES - TRUE!
Though it’s important to build SPF and anti-ageing skincare into your daily routine, it also pays to take extra care of the lips and neck, as these areas will show signs of time before the rest of your face. Fine lines, dryness and loss of tone can all prematurely age you. The neck and lip area are the first to suffer, so take some preventative action. Beverly England, Clarins’ in-house specialist advises: “The skin on and around the lips is particularly thin and delicate and needs specific attention and care. Constant exposure to environmental aggressors can cause premature ageing and wrinkles”. Understanding this is a constant worry for women of all ages. Clarins has just launched Extra-Firming Lip & Contour Balm, £25.50, (0800 036 3558) which is packed with raspberry seed oil, shea butter, vitamin E and peptides to smooth lines. Apply lashings overnight for best results. For everyday protection, bag MAC Lip Conditioner £9.50 (www.maccosmetics.com), a simple, old-school style, vanilla-flavoured lipbalm that works harder at keeping pouts hydrated than any of the fancier ones on the market. A crêpey neck is a sure-fire age giveaway and skin can start to sag from as early as the mid-30s, or even earlier if you’re genetically predisposed to the problem. Extend your SPF protection to your décolletage every day, and invest in some serious skincare too, to keep gravity at bay. Dr Brandt’s V-Zone, £46 (www.drbrandtskincare.com), is one of the best creams designed for this job, plumping up skin cells and fighting free radicals, but the glorious lifting Creme de la Mer’s Face Serum, £90 (0870 034 2566) will do the trick too, and leave your skin feeling like velvet.

MYTH: WHEN YOU FIND A COSMETIC THAT SUITS YOU, STICK WITH IT - FALSE!
We’re all guilty of it: when we finally stumble across the perfect lip shade, the wear-anywhere eyeshadow, or the foundation that neither flakes nor cakes, we cling onto it for dear life. But while there’s nothing wrong with knowing what colours and brands suit your skin, there are lots of reasons why you’ve got to be brave and keep on experimenting.
 Sally Stokes, Head of Education at Shiseido UK counsels: “Once you find skin care or makeup that suits your skin it’s difficult to have the confidence to swap, but as the skin is constantly changing due to environment, lifestyle and natural ageing, it’s essential to re-evaluate the skin’s needs at least three to four times a year”. Visiting a beauty expert or dermatologist is the best way to monitor whether your skincare is still effective. “At Shiseido our beauty consultants use specially developed high tech consultation equipment (Shiseido Skin Touch Analyser and Multi Micro Sensor) to give an accurate diagnosis of how your skin is changing, enabling them to recommend the perfect skincare for optimum results,” says Sally. To book, call 0207 313 4774.
As your skin changes with time, so does the beauty industry. New formulations, breakthroughs and multitasking products are constantly emerging, and if you don’t try new ideas, there’s a danger that your look will appear dated, however ‘perfect’ for you it may seem. Want some examples? The last couple of years have seen mineral-based make-up explode onto the scene, using its incredibly fine-milled particles to flattering, soft-focus effect in face powder, blush and eyeshadow. Brands including Susan Posnick (www.susanposnick.com), MAC, L’Oreal, Jane Iredale (www.janeiredale.com) and id Bare Minerals (www.bareescentualsuk.com) have all pioneered this new, pure formula, which gives longer-lasting and more natural results than any other make-up.
And what about the use of silicone in cream-to-powder foundation? Max Factor Miracle Touch, £11.95 (www.maxfactor.co.uk) and Benefit Some Kind-a Gorgeous, £19.50 (www.hqhair.com) glide onto skin in a luscious, decadent way that no foundation produced before, say, 2006 ever did. Time for a re-think? You bet. Start small, by choosing a makeup staple that’s been updated and improved. This autumn, we’re loving the fact that Bobbi Brown’s added a shot of pinky-gold to her signature neutral shades in the Bobbi Brown Creamy Lip Color collection, £14 (www.bobbibrown.co.uk).

TRIED & TESTED - WARMING FRAGRANCED CANDLES (19.09.08)
Never underestimate the power of a fragranced candle... We've tested six that promise to warm you up on even the coldest autumn evenings.

DIPTYQUE JACINTHE SCENTED CANDLE, £32 (www.beautique.com
What they say: Diptyque craftsmen blend the wax with very rare natural essences from Grasse to ensure that each candle releases the perfect amount of scent for as many as 60 hours of burning.
What we say: A fashionable Diptyque candle with a single wick, which combines the floral notes of hyacinth, touches of green foliage, and the warming addition of pepper. The classic monochrome jar would take pride of place on any mantelpiece.
The Results: I’m a big fan of Diptyque – having a candle in my flat is as much a style statement as it is a means to fragrance. I was quite loathed to light the wick of this candle, as it looked so chic sat on the side. However, the rich scent was too tempting and I soon had the match ready to strike. When lit, the fragrance was intense, filling the room within five minutes. The scent is quite green and floral, but has a deep spicy edge. I look forward to lighting the candle every evening when I get home from work – it’s more warming than climbing under a big blanket. It has now burnt for 35 hours and I have about a third left.
Best for: A style statement

BELLE FLEUR FIGUE NOIR CANDLE, £35 (www.spacenk.co.uk
What they say: Tantalizing and sexy, the twisting branches of the fig tree will expose your senses to the heady, sweetly floral aroma of fig wood and the exotic treat of the fruit it bears. The subtle inclusion of fresh vetiver grass and juniper berries elevates the fragrance to a mysterious and provocative complexity.
What we say: Pale blue and chocolate-brown packaging, containing a richly-scented candle with a single wick. When lit, the dark brown glass jar emits a warming orange glow. Matches are included.
The Results: I was more than a little impressed with the presentation of this candle – a gorgeous ribbon-trimmed box, containing the candle and a box of matches. It would make a great present. When unlit, the candle has a very floral scent and I doubted it would make me feel warm and cosy when I lit it. I was delighted to be proved wrong – after a few minutes of lighting, a heavier woody scent filled the room. I was very impressed with the burning time too – I’ve already burnt it for 25 hours and half of the wax remains.
Best for: A luxury gift

CRABTREE & EVELYN NATURALS COMFORTING CANDLE – COCOA, NUTMEG & CARDAMOM, £15 (www.crabtree-evelyn.co.uk)
What they say: Scent your home with the rich, delicious aroma of our Swiss cocoa, fresh nutmeg and cardamom candle - crafted from natural plant waxes and beeswax.
What we say: Simple cardboard packaging, containing a sweetly smelling candle in an amber-coloured embossed glass jar. The candle has one wick and is made from plant waxes and beeswax.
The Results: As the postman handed over the parcel containing this candle, I could already detect the rich autumnal fragrance. In fact, the scent was so strong that I didn’t even need to light it for my living room to start smelling. When I did light the wick, however, the individual smells of cocoa, nutmeg and cardamom became distinguishable and the fragrance became deeper and very comforting. I’ve burnt the candle for 30 hours and there is a quarter remaining. The candle blew out cleanly, with very little smoke. I’m impressed by the price, I think it’s great value for money for such an intensive scent.
Best for: Value for money

NATURAL MAGIC RESTORE: INSPIRE ORGANIC TREATMENT CANDLE – JASMINE, GINGER, AND SANDLEWOOD, £35 (www.neomorganics.com)
What they say: Classic Jasmine combined with a zingy, fresh ginger and a hint of deep Sandalwood is the perfect feel good fragrance. Gently soothing away stress and leaving an inspired new person in its place!
What we say: An organic candle, made using only natural vegetable wax and pure essential oils. Weighing 1kg, with three wicks and a burning time of 55 hours, this is one seriously luxurious candle. Packaged in a sturdy white box, with matches included.
The Results: The fact that this candle is entirely natural is enough to make me pick it up in a shop. The delicious fragrance, length of burning, and stylish packaging are all a big bonus. The scent is quite subtle before lighting, but it takes only a few minutes to intensify and fill the room after lighting. The fragrance is warm and floral, reminding me of the scent when you first walk into an expensive spa. The triple-wick also emits a lovely warm glow. I soon felt very cosy and will definitely be lighting this candle all throughout the autumn – it’ll certainly last me a while.
Best for: Natural fragrance

TERRAKÉ WARMTH OF THE EARTH RELAXING AROMATIC CANDLE, £24 (020 7987 0535)
What they say: Experience a unique moment of relaxation and allow yourself to be enveloped by vanilla and cedar fragrances like memories of a thousand-year-old earths.
What we say: An opaque glass jar, containing a caramel-coloured candle with a single wick. The packaging is simple and neutrally-toned. A sweet autumnal fragrance.
The Results: I love sweet things, so was delighted to be given this candle to test. It smelt of caramel, vanilla, and chocolate, which intensified as soon as I lit the wick. It was very warming, so perfectly suited for cold autumn evenings. The candle is also a powerful relaxant, leaving me feeling instantly calm and de-stressed. It’s become a real comfort blanket, just as effective as drinking a cup of hot chocolate, and I love getting home in the evening to light it. I’ve been burning the candle for 20 hours now, and have over half left.
Best for: Relaxing and de-stressing

BLOG: Paul Labrecque's New York Fashion Week Diary (12.09.08)
Sunday, September 7th
Wow what a weekend! NYC Fashion Week kicked into high gear fast and furious. My staff and I are all out crazy for the next week getting ready for our show on Wednesday afternoon and scoping out the celebs and all the news at Bryant Park. This morning I met with designer Pamela Rowland to finalise the look for her show. After many trials, we are finally happy and very excited. This year it’s all about Hollywood glamour. Sexy soft waved ponies with a slight bouffant at the crown are red carpet glamour at its best! Perfect to showcase Pam’s elegant sophisticated styled clothes… The show will be hot and fabulous! I’ll be using the Paul Labrecque Volume and Curly Hair Care collections to get the look. www.beautyexpert.co.uk.
Monday, September 8th
It’s a tough morning for me as I’m usually at my beach house in the Hamptons on weekends, but Fashion Week takes over. Normally I’d be waking up now to walk my two dogs and taking a run on the beach, but today I’m recovering from a busy weekend and prepping for our show at the Tents at Bryant Park with designer Pamela Rowland on Wednesday. My salon is buzzing with VIPs, editors and celebs getting ready for their big entrance at Bryant Park. It’s crazy! I love the energy that invades NYC at this time of year.
The weekend got off to a great start with some very high-profile shows. The city was buzzing about the William Rast Boys, Justin Timberlake, and Trace Ayala. Roseland Ballroom was transformed into one big southern style party for their big buzz show. The clothes were very cool. Lots of basics in leather and studs…very Steve McQueen. fun and it did not disappoint. As always Justin looked amazingly stylish and confident in rolled up jeans, a tan colored blazer, vest and classic black shirt and tie. Hot!!!
The frenzy continued at Charlotte Ronson’s show… The look was very girlie with an edge, soft yet sexy with lots of short skirts & dresses. But the real excitement was over Lindsay Lohan and Sam Ronson in the audience. The press went crazy trying to get a glimpse of the two gal pals. Lindsay was sporting a casual look in a low cut denim dress with her hair pulled back and Sam showed off her short pixie cut, without her trademark hat. They both looked hot and were having a blast… and in their usual fashion, managed to avoid the press and slip out the back at the end of the show. Sam’s brother Mark Ronson was also on hand to DJ the event.
Big day ahead as I’ll be demonstrating my look for tomorrow’s show to my 12 stylist and assistants joining me this year. We have 18 girls to do in 2 hours! If all the models show up on time, all is good, but that will never happen. Lots to do to prepare…I need a back up plan! My staff is psyched and ready to work fast. Seen it all over the last 10 years so I am ready for whatever comes my way. And it never fails no matter how crazy it gets backstage (and it always does), all the ego’s and attitude, but we hit our mark every time! The hair and clothes always look amazing as soon as the models walk out on the runway. This year is going to be hot!
Tuesday, September 9th
Final day before the show and just taking care of last minute details. Packing up pins and products, dryers and irons, scheduling staff, final looks and making sure we’re ready to go. My staff is sooooo excited to break away from the salon and have some fun backstage. One more run through to make sure it’s all perfect and we’re ready. Full day ahead of clients and then off to the evening’s events and dinner. Must find a way to get some sleep tonight.
Wednesday, September 10th
Off to Bryant Park soon. I’m working this morning, taking care of my VIP clients and then a 3pm call-time for the show… Show is scheduled at 5pm but we all know that’s 6pm in Fashion Week time. Busy day. I’m waiting for all the drama to unfold…
Thursday, September 11th
Pam’s show was a blast and it was pleasure working with her people and the team from Laura Mercier makeup. The look was AMAZING. The clothes were fabulous – Pamela Roland at her best. From colouful sexy dresses and skirts – to stunning black and white evening wear – to a show-stopping red swimsuit. What a body on that model! The collection was inspired by the bold colour, geometric form, and sensuous line in the work of contemporary painter and sculptor Ellsworth Kelly. A collection for sexy, sophisticated, confident women with exceptional taste.
The look for the hair was red carpet glamour. Spring 2009 will see lots of up-hair styles, some messy and more casual, others more refined but all up and away from the neck. Perfect for a cool casual springtime look. Ponies will be big and can be worn in so many ways…dressed up or down. I went for a more refined look with a sleek pulled back style, adding a little drama with a bouffant at the crown of the head. The hair was parted to the side and sat slightly over the ear with a low pony and soft waves. It was gorgeous I must say!!!
The frenzy backstage was classic fashion week. Late models, crowds, press, and never enough time… I had to juggle hair for 18 girls in 2 hours, with press interviews, makeup, directing my staff, rehearsals and more. Not to mention keeping all the ego’s in check. The adrenaline was really pumping. Many thanks go out to the entire Paul Labrecque staff that were there to support me. They all did a wonderful job.
Spring predictions from fashion week…lots of bright colors, high wedge shoes, soft flowing fabrics and casual up hair, loose and natural.
Now just trying to get going this morning after a few very long ‘Fashion Week” days… just finished my boot camp workout routine and 8 mile bike ride to the salon. I really needed to work off some stress but boy my abs and butt are really screaming. It hurts so good! Also a bit of a reflective day here in NYC as I live downtown very close to Ground Zero. This morning there was lots of activity at the site surrounding the 7th anniversary of 9/11 in preparation for the annual memorial service. I said a prayer as I rode by and remembered that sad day.
All for now. My first client is waiting to be beautiful!
Paul’s hair care philosophy underscores a forward thinking vision for beauty – simplicity is the key to looking your best. In the UK we can now experience a new breed of hair care that delivers sexy, sophisticated hair without all the fuss! Known for his fashion-forward style sense, clean, modern cuts and custom color, Paul takes effortless beauty to the next level with the new Paul Labrecque Luxury Hair Care collection available at www.beautyexpert.co.uk and Selfridges nationwide.

Treatment Review: WARM HONEY & BUTTER MILK BODY WRAP, THE MAY FAIR SPA  (23.08.08)
What it promises: With lashings of honey to moisturise and generous slatherings of butter milk to help break down dead skin cells, this is the ultimate indulgence for dry or thirsty post-sunshine skin. After an hour of blissful pampering, where the body will be polished, buffed, and intensely hydrated, you will walk out the doors of the spa with brighter, smoother, and far softer skin.
What's happens: As soon as I stepped into the serene ambience of the May Fair Spa my mind instantly started to unwind. I arrived an hour early to make use of the herbal sauna, aromatic steam room, and dark lantern-lit relaxation room and, when my therapist came to collect me for the treatment, my body had caught up with the relaxed state of my mind. After being ushered into a warm jasmine-scented treatment room and invited to lie down on a white-toweled bed, my skin was prepared for the wrap with a polishing oatmeal and yoghurt scrub. I found myself taking deeper breaths as my body was enveloped in a warm concoction of 100% pure organic honey and buttermilk – the irresistible fragrances are definitely part of the enjoyment of this treatment. As my skin absorbed the ingredients from within the heat of a blanket, my hands were treated to a relaxing warm honey massage. After showering off in the privacy of the treatment room, a natural body oil was applied to my skin to finish off the treatment. I was then led back to the relaxation room to rehydrate with cup of herbal tea and a bowl of delicious fruit sorbet.
Results: I had just returned from a beach holiday and my skin was in desperate need of a shot of moisture. I loved the fact that the ingredients were 100% natural, but doubted their ability to provide the hydration my skin needed. I was surprised and thrilled to be proved wrong. I immediately noticed a new velvety-smoothness to my skin, which lasted long after the body oil had absorbed. The whole experience was a joy – the luxurious surrounding, the access to the spa facilities, and the pampering treatment itself.
Price: £99 for one hour.
Location: The May Fair Spa, Stratton Street, London W1J 8LT. 0207 9152826. www.mayfairspa.com.

Breaking News: YSL LAUNCHES TOP SECRET FLASH RADIANCE SKIN CARE BRUSH (30.08.09)
Once in a while a truly iconic beauty product is launched. Yves Saint Laurent are dab hands at it - their uber-popular Touch Éclat was launched in 1991 and its popularity has never waned. A decade on, one is still sold every 20 seconds globally. We’re excited to report that the glamorous beauty house has done it again, with the launch this week of the stunning YSL Top Secret Flash Radiance Skin Care Brush.
If you suffer from lacklustre skin, this little pot of gold is going to become your new best friend. Directly inspired by makeup artists’ techniques, it gives the skin instant freshness and radiance with just one sweep.
So, how does it work? A cocktail of energising grains of Paradise and caffeine stimulates the skin and erases signs of fatigue. Sweet orange flavonoids regulate the skin’s pigmentation to combat a dull complexion. On the skin’s surface, pearly and pink micro-pigments catch and diffuse light to conceal imperfections and brighten the complexion. Finally, wheat proteins combine with oat sugars to form a firming network on the skin’s surface and instantly smooth the features. In one simple step, the skin’s texture is refined, the complexion is velvety matte, and the face regains all its radiance. All it takes is a simple squeeze and the skin-stimulating brush will spread a veil of radiance over the entire face. Use it after cleansing, but before applying makeup – it creates a silky smooth base. It should be applied in small touches - starting with the cheekbones, move from the innermost part outwards to the edges, taking care to avoid the eye contours. Then stroke upwards from the bottom of the face to the forehead.
The-Beauty-Pages.com has had a sneak preview and can confirm its incredible ability to perfect the skin. We’d put money on it still being a highlight of our dressing tables a decade from now. Top Secrets Flash Radiance Brush retails at £34 and will be on YSL Counters Nationwide from 30th August

Feature: THE HOTTEST UK HAIR STYLISTS (12.09.08)
Whether you’re craving some celebrity style or simply looking for a little inspiration, these six British hair stylists are the cream of the crop...

ANDREW BARTON: Nothing comes for free in the world of hair, especially if your chosen stylist is Andrew Barton. Officially the most expensive hairdresser in the UK, if you want this man let loose on your locks, you’ll be forking out at least £430 and popped on a six-month waiting list.
CV stats: With over 25 years experience in the industry, Andrew is currently the International Creative Director for salon group SAKS. He’s also held positions at Toni & Guy, was voted British Hairdresser of the Year 2006/07, and has recently been seen getting scissor-happy on TV Programme 10 Years Younger.
Famed for: Continuing to create bespoke cuts for everyday people, despite his TV appearances and A-lister styling sessions plunging him into the ‘celebrity hairdresser’ spotlight.
Own range: Called Shiny Happy Hair, his products are available exclusively at ASDA. From £3.95.
What’s next: As well as penning a self-help book for consumers and their hair dilemmas, four new products will be added to his haircare range in November and he’ll be back on our screens in 2009.
Dream restyle: Andrew says: ‘Princess Anne. A sassy mid bob would be perfect for her and help bring her into the 21st century!’
Book: Saks, 4 Old Bailey, St Pauls, London, EC4M 7BG. Tel: 020 7332 0333.

LISA SHEPHERD: You’ll recognise her from her appearances alongside Andrew Barton on 10 Years Younger, but Lisa Shepherd is more than just a sidekick. With a third salon now under her wing, this Brummie lass is fast becoming famous for breaking the boundaries in colour and creativity.
CV stats: Lisa began her hairdressing career over 18 years ago working alongside Umberto Giannini, but after his death, decided it was time to open her own salon. Named British Hairdresser of the Year 2005 and awarded British Colourist of the Year three times, she’s also been appointed International Colour Ambassador for Clynol and Schwarzkopf for the second season running.
Famed for: Having nineteen awards to her name. She now has such a degree of respect in the industry she’s often referred to as the ‘Hair Doctor’ of dye-jobs.
What’s next: Despite only just opening her third salon, Lisa has plans for a fourth in London, due to open late 2008. She’s also working on her own range of products.
Dream re-style: Lisa tells us: ‘In terms of celebrities whose hair I’d like to ‘Lisa’ I’d have to say Giselle and Meryl Streep, although Tom Ford has to be my dream man!’
Book: Lisa Shepherd Salon, Portman House, Temple Row West, Birmingham, B2 5NY. Tel: 0121 236 6981 www.lisashepherd.co.uk

RICHARD WARD: If there was ever a blueprint for a celebrity hairdresser, Richard Ward would fit the bill perfectly. With glitterati clientele all over his books and a five star salon to boot, this is one super stylist who’s big business.
CV stats: Prior to setting up shop with his hairdresser wife Hellen, Richard trained alongside Daniel Galvin and Neville Daniel. He’s now opened his own branded Metrospa, launched a product range, was chosen to be the Fellowship for British Hairdressing’s Media Ambassador and has regular slots on GMTV’s LK Today show and Trinny and Susannah Undress.
Famed for: His star-studded appearances and expert opinion. He’ll often be found dishing out the do’s and don’ts of hair care and commenting on celebrity hairstyles.
Own range: The self-titled Richard Ward product range is available from Superdrug and Tesco. From £4.49.
What’s next: Already looking to expand his product range with line extensions and accessories, he’s also the featured hairdresser in the next series of Coleen’s Real Women.
Dream restyle: Richard says: ‘I’d love to get rid of Jerry Hall’s long, brassy blonde look and give her a style to soften her features.’
Book: Richard Ward Hair & Metrospa, 82 Duke of York Square, Sloane Square, London, SW3 4LY. Tel: 0207 730 1222. www.richardward.co.uk

ERROL DOUGLAS: One of the mane men in the industry, Errol Douglas has a long list of credentials to his name. Awarded an MBE earlier this year for his services to hairdressing, he’s bordering on hair royalty, which explains why he’s topping our list too.
CV stats: Starting out in a local East London salon, Errol soon moved onwards and upwards, working alongside Neville Daniel for six years before becoming Artistic Director at Paul Edmonds. Since going it alone he’s been nominated 12 times for British Hairdresser of the Year, won the Afro category three times and was awarded the Fellowship Gold Salon Consumer Award for two consecutive years.
Famed for: His breathtaking photographic work and behind-the-scenes styling where he can be found titivating the tresses of many a celebrity.
What’s next: Errol explains: ‘To celebrate the salon’s 10th birthday this Autumn/Winter. I’ll be opening a VIP hair treatment room. I’m also introducing a brilliant men’s range - Flint Edge - to the salon. I’m up for the British and London Hairdresser of the Year Awards, which I’m keeping my fingers crossed for.’
Celebrity clients: Kelly Rowland, Uma Thurman, Christina Ricci and Gok Wan
Book: 18 Motcomb Street, Knightsbridge, London SW1X 8LB. Tel: 020 7235 0110 www.erroldouglas.com

TARA SMITH: The scissorhands of the silver screen, Tara Smith has got more celebrity numbers in her phone book than some Hollywood agents. Dividing her time between LA and the UK, she continues to be a familiar face on the session styling circuit.
CV stats: Working alongside her hairdresser mother, Tara jumped ship in her late teens to start working on commercials and photographic shoots. At 21 she was chosen to run the hair department on a film set and since then, her career has snowballed. She’s recently worked on Quentin Tarantino films, is Demi Moore’s chosen stylist and ran the LA leg of Sex and the City: The Movie.
Famed for: Her impressive clientele. Tara puts her success down to regular, repeat visits from celebrities and friends. She’s also Godmother to Anna Friel’s daughter.
Own range: Her organic, eco-friendly product range will launch in Tesco this September. Prices start at £3.99.
What’s next: Tara explains: ‘I want to make my product line bigger and make the brand global so it can be accessible for everyone. I’m also considering opening a totally eco-friendly salon in LA. I’d love for everything to be green and pure, including the interior.’
Celebrity clients: Anna Friel, Natalie Imbruglia, Yasmin le Bon and Rosario Dawson.
Book: Email info@tarasmith.co.uk or visit www.tarasmith.co.uk.

KARINE JACKSON: Her passport might state an Australian nationality, but Karine Jackson is very much thought of in the hairdressing arena as ‘Best of British’. Setting sail for our salon-lined shores at twenty, she hasn’t looked back since.
CV stats: The daughter of two hairdressers, Karine was practically born with a pair of scissors in her hand. On moving to the UK, she carved herself a successful career working alongside the Wella Creative Team and Charles Worthington, and after opening her own salon, won the London Hairdresser of the Year Award 2007 and is currently in the running for the 2008 title.
Famed for: Holding a prestigious L’Oreal Colour Specialist Degree which puts her in the top 1% of L’Oreal colourists in the UK. She’s also a renowned bridal hair specialist.
What’s next: Karine tells us: ‘I think I’d like to open a salon in Sydney. The hairdressing industry is booming in Australia and seeing as that’s where my roots are, it makes sense to be part of the great stylists that are coming out of Oz too.’
Dream re-style: She says: ‘Johnny Depp – he has great hair and looks great as well!’
Book: Karine Jackson Hair & Beauty, 24 Litchfield Street, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9NJ. Tel: 020 7836 0300. www.karinejackson.co.uk

Tried & Tested: Cellulite Treatments (12.09.08)
Cellulite affects eight out of ten adult women - regardless of race, age or weight. We've tested four products and two treatments that promise to smooth problem areas.

PEVONIA BOTANICA SMOOTH & TONE BODY-SVELT GEL, £45.25 for 200ml (01449 727000)
What they say: A unique formula containing Green Coffee - the latest, most active and proven-effective anti-cellulite performing ingredient. Green Coffee stimulates circulation and visibly improves the skin’s surface by eliminating water stagnation and toxin retention. Fat elimination is encouraged by boosting the skin’s ability to transform fat into energy to effectively address any problem cellulite areas. To be used every morning.
What we say: A rich cream with a pleasant citrus fragrance, presented in a simple white bottle. The cream cools skin on contact and absorbs quickly.
The Results: I have cellulite on my thighs, stomach and bottom – I’ve used cellulite treatments in the past, but have never seen a huge improvement. I’ve been using this product religiously for a month and whilst I can’t see a huge difference in the dimples, it has definitely started to tone up the skin. With continued use, I’m confident it’ll get to work on the cellulite and will carry on using it.
Best for: Toning Skin

LIPOMASSAGE BY ENDERMOLOGIE®, £60 PER 45-MINUTE TREATMENT (020 8731 5678 for nearest clinic)
What they say: A new treatment from Endermologie®, which not only treats cellulite but also slims and firms the body. The only proven treatment to body-sculpt and reduce localised fat, as well as boost circulation and expel abnormal water retention. Endermologie® tones, firms and smoothes the skin, giving a slimmer and more refined figure, with a reduction in cellulite. Six to eight treatments are recommended for a more refined, cellulite-free body.
What we say: Skin is lifted and sucked during the 45-minute treatment by a Cellu M6 Keymodule machine. This action stimulates the lymphatic system and breaks down pockets of fluid that build up to form cellulite. A body sock is worn for each treatment.
The Results: I felt in good hands having this treatment – the therapist explained in detail how the treatment worked and how a healthy diet and lifestyle would increase the results. After four sessions, I started to notice that my skin had become a lot firmer. After six sessions, my thighs and bottom had lost the ‘orange peel’ effect I hated so much. I’ve had to juggle my time around to make the appointments and I didn’t always find the treatment very comfortable, but I can honestly say it was worth every second.
Best for: Dramatic Results

DECLÉOR AROMESSENCE CONTOUR BALM, £37 for 50ml (0207 3138780)
What they say: Decleor takes Essential Oils to their highest level of performance with the creation of Aromessence Contour Balm. A major advance has been made in the field of body care: the discovery of a unique synergy of five 100% natural Essential Oils for dual olfactory and skin performance. Use once a day.
What we say: A rich smooth balm that leaves a subtle sheen on skin. The relaxing scent of essential oils makes it perfect for using at bedtime. Presented in a matt glass jar.
The Results: I loved this rich luxury balm and have really enjoyed massaging it into my skin every night. I have a problem with ‘orange peel’ skin on my hips, thighs and bottom, so have been using the balm specifically on those areas. Although the results are quite subtle, after a month of daily use I have noticed that the skin looks smoother and feels much softer. I’d definitely use it again – especially before a holiday, when I’d usually feel quite self-conscious.
Best for: Smoothing and hydrating

NUDE SKINCARE SMOOTHING BODY REFINER, £38 for 200ml (0800 6344366)
What they say: Anti-Cellulite Treatment for skin hiding from the world, with peptides, amino acids, fig, mountain ash, green coffee and ginger for smoother, firmer skin. Apply morning and night.
What we say: A hybrid between a cream and a gel, which absorbs easily into the skin. A delicious fragrance of ripe figs and freshly grated ginger. Simple grey pump bottle.
The Results: Cellulite isn’t my only body qualm – I also have post-baby stretch marks and skin that needs toning up. After a month of using this product, my skin feels firmer, the cellulite has been visibly reduced, and the purple stretch marks have faded so much that they are only detectable up close. I am so impressed with this product that it has taken the top spot on my desert island list, closely followed by a bikini!
Best for: Multi-tasking

SISLEY CELLULI-PRO SLIMMING COMPLEX, £95 for 200ML (020 7591 6380)
What they say: An exceptional synergy of natural plant extracts and essential oils that acts on two levels: 1- Bitter Orange, Cedar and Butcherbroom encourage the elimination of persistent fatty desposits. 2- Specific Rice Peptides (a Sisley innovation) diminish the accumulation of new fatty deposits by accelerating the use of energy, Use morning and night.
What we say: A deliciously rich texture, which feels more like body butter than cellulite cream. Takes a while to absorb, but leaves skin feeling super soft. A stylish blue bottle that would take pride of place on any dressing table.
The Results: I suffer from cellulite on my thighs and used this product for a month before my summer holiday. The cream was really thick and left my skin with a lovely sheen. I also loved the scent, which reminded me of fresh lavender. The results weren’t dramatic, but after a month I noticed that the bigger dimples were less obvious. Best of all, my skin felt injected with moisture and much firmer. I felt confident wearing a bikini and will definitely continue to use it.
Best for: Moisturising and firming

AROMATHERAPY ASSOCIATES REDUCE CELLULITE TREATMENT, from £50 PER 60-MINUTE TREATMENT (www.aromatherapyassociates.com)
What they say: A wake up call to legs, bums, and tums! Detox, reduce, and tone with this invigorating treatment specially designed to target areas of cellulite. A citrus burst of gel, oil, and mud is applied. It contains Grapefruit, Juniper Berry and Rosemary to add zest and energy.
What we say: Definitely the most enjoyable way to banish cellulite! A luxurious 70-minute treatment, which involves body brushing and vigorous massage to stimulate the skin and rid the body of toxins. The products smell delicious and skin is left feeling silky smooth.
The Results: Six treatments are recommended to achieve visible results – I only had one treatment, so didn’t expect to see dramatic changes in the skin. However, after 60 minutes my skin felt smoother and far softer. I wore a fitted dress to a party that evening and it definitely felt less tight. I found the whole experience very enjoyable, even relaxing, and will definitely be back to complete the course.
Best for: Treating yourself

Blog: GOLDIEROCKS (12.09.08)
Fashion week is all about looking and feeling glamorous 24/7, from catwalk shows to afternoon press calls, champagne receptions and DJ’ing at an afterparty – then 4 hours sleep and it starts again. And oh, what a sin it would be to look anything but fresh and flawless amongst the pretty people.
Here are my top handbag essentials to maintain a perfect complexion – and a couple of pampering treats to get you up-to-scratch before the big week starts.
For the makeup bag…
Givenchy Subli’mine Sculpt Light, £22 (www.houseoffraser.co.uk)A beauty editor friend of mine gave me sample and I’ve been hooked on this foundation ever since. It’s worth every penny. This golden nectar evenly airbrushes out all flaws, and if used sparingly creates a luminous, healthy glow.
M.A.C Kohl Pencil, £11 (www.maccosmetics.co.uk)I wouldn’t be seen dead without my smokey black kohl. I get through eyeliner at a rate of knots, but this is my favourite. Always ring completely around the eye, rather than just the bottom lid, so light isn’t drawn downwards. This kohl gives a smouldering Bridgette Bardot look.
Bobbi Brown Eye Brightener, £22 (www.bobbibrown.co.uk)Concealer is an absolute essential for me during Fashion Week, so that I appear bright eyed and bushy tailed at all times. Bobbi Brown is a master for working with our natural tones and pigments.
Shu Uemura Eye shadow, from £13 (www.spacenk.co.uk)Shu Uemura is my favourite brand for eye shadow. They’re smooth, non-crumbly and last for hours. A coco brown is far sexier for a smokey-eyed look than charcoal black – always dab a little under the lower lid.
Eyelure Glamour Fake Eyelashes, from £3.75 (www.justbeautifully.co.uk)How I love fake-eye lashes! My girlfriends and I always don a pair to go dancing, especially during Fashion Week where you can be as extravagant as you like. Peacock feathers, white 3inch ones, diamante crystals, blue with polka dots, neon side sweepers- I’ve got them all! But classic black, adds a touch of glamour to any evening frock.
For the night before…
Lancôme Bienfait Multi-Vital Nuit, £37.50 (www.lancome.co.uk) What would I do without this cream? It’s a miracle-worker, transforming fatigued hungover skin into a refreshed dewy complexion overnight. Can I have a life supply please?
Butter Nail Varnish, £10 (0845 254 5409) Completely free from Formaldehyde, toluene and DBP… Fast-drying and non-damaging to nails.. Butter is my absolute favourite brand of nail polish. My rule of thumb is to choose blacks, greys and clarets for hands, while keeping toes neutral. Butter’s “Tea with the Queen” is perfect.
You can see Goldierocks @ The Grill Room, Café Royal on Regents Street on Thursday 18th September spinning alongside Mystery Jets, Mr Hudson and The Library; expect extravagantly dressed colourful people, dancers on the bar and much much more… www.Goldierocks.co.uk  www.myspace.com/djgoldierocks

Breaking News: YSL LAUNCHES TOP SECRET FLASH RADIANCE SKIN CARE BRUSH (28.08.08)
Once in a while a truly iconic beauty product is launched. Yves Saint Laurent are dab hands at it - their uber-popular Touch Éclat was launched in 1991 and its popularity has never waned. A decade on, one is still sold every 20 seconds globally. We’re excited to report that the glamorous beauty house has done it again, with the launch this week of the stunning YSL Top Secret Flash Radiance Skin Care Brush.
If you suffer from lacklustre skin, this little pot of gold is going to become your new best friend. Directly inspired by makeup artists’ techniques, it gives the skin instant freshness and radiance with just one sweep.
So, how does it work? A cocktail of energising grains of Paradise and caffeine stimulates the skin and erases signs of fatigue. Sweet orange flavonoids regulate the skin’s pigmentation to combat a dull complexion. On the skin’s surface, pearly and pink micro-pigments catch and diffuse light to conceal imperfections and brighten the complexion. Finally, wheat proteins combine with oat sugars to form a firming network on the skin’s surface and instantly smooth the features. In one simple step, the skin’s texture is refined, the complexion is velvety matte, and the face regains all its radiance. All it takes is a simple squeeze and the skin-stimulating brush will spread a veil of radiance over the entire face. Use it after cleansing, but before applying makeup – it creates a silky smooth base. It should be applied in small touches - starting with the cheekbones, move from the innermost part outwards to the edges, taking care to avoid the eye contours. Then stroke upwards from the bottom of the face to the forehead.
The-Beauty-Pages.com has had a sneak preview and can confirm its incredible ability to perfect the skin. We’d put money on it still being a highlight of our dressing tables a decade from now. Top Secrets Flash Radiance Brush retails at £34 and will be on YSL Counters Nationwide from 30th August

Treatment Review: WARM HONEY & BUTTER MILK BODY WRAP, THE MAY FAIR SPA  (08.08.08)
What it promises: With lashings of honey to moisturise and generous slatherings of butter milk to help break down dead skin cells, this is the ultimate indulgence for dry or thirsty post-sunshine skin. After an hour of blissful pampering, where the body will be polished, buffed, and intensely hydrated, you will walk out the doors of the spa with brighter, smoother, and far softer skin.
What's happens: As soon as I stepped into the serene ambience of the May Fair Spa my mind instantly started to unwind. I arrived an hour early to make use of the herbal sauna, aromatic steam room, and dark lantern-lit relaxation room and, when my therapist came to collect me for the treatment, my body had caught up with the relaxed state of my mind. After being ushered into a warm jasmine-scented treatment room and invited to lie down on a white-toweled bed, my skin was prepared for the wrap with a polishing oatmeal and yoghurt scrub. I found myself taking deeper breaths as my body was enveloped in a warm concoction of 100% pure organic honey and buttermilk – the irresistible fragrances are definitely part of the enjoyment of this treatment. As my skin absorbed the ingredients from within the heat of a blanket, my hands were treated to a relaxing warm honey massage. After showering off in the privacy of the treatment room, a natural body oil was applied to my skin to finish off the treatment. I was then led back to the relaxation room to rehydrate with cup of herbal tea and a bowl of delicious fruit sorbet.
Results: I had just returned from a beach holiday and my skin was in desperate need of a shot of moisture. I loved the fact that the ingredients were 100% natural, but doubted their ability to provide the hydration my skin needed. I was surprised and thrilled to be proved wrong. I immediately noticed a new velvety-smoothness to my skin, which lasted long after the body oil had absorbed. The whole experience was a joy – the luxurious surrounding, the access to the spa facilities, and the pampering treatment itself.
Price: £99 for one hour.
Location: The May Fair Spa, Stratton Street, London W1J 8LT. 0207 9152826. www.mayfairspa.com.

Feature: INTENSIVE MOISTURISERS (05.09.08)
Plunging temperatures, howling winds, and cranked-up central heating... It’s only a matter of time. Get ready for the colder months ahead by drenching your skin, body, and hair with a generous dose of intensive moisturisers…

FACE: If the colder months leave your face feeling dry, chapped, and irritated, you are by no means alone. Harsh conditions outdoors weaken the skin’s natural defence barrier, which increases sensitivity. While indoors, central heating literally saps the moisture from the air, leaving skin feeling tight and uncomfortably dry. The Products If you don’t exfoliate regularly, now is the time to start. Allowing dead skin cells to build up will vastly reduce the power of your moisturiser, so it’s crucial to keep the surface of the skin polished. Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant, £31 (www.dermalogica.co.uk) would be the perfect choice. The rice-based powder activates on contact with water, releasing Papainn, Salicylic Acid and Rice Enzymes to leave skin smoother and brighter. Next, choose an intensive moisturiser to penetrate deeply and provide constant hydration. Lancôme Primordiale Skin Recharge, £45 (www.lancome.co.uk) will provide an injection of radiance in the colder months. Skin is left hydrated, refined, and visibly plumped. Sensitive skin will benefit from Eve Lom TLC Cream, £45 (www.spacenk.co.uk) – a super-hero product to calm, soothe redness, and help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Better still, the nourishing texture feels sensational on the skin.For an extra treat, give your skin a weekly boost with NUDE Intensive Moisture Mask, £32 (0800 634 4366). The soothing ingredients of honey, fig, organic cupuacu, and liquorice provide instant relief to even the driest skins.Finally, keep lips supple and smooth with a rich hydrating balm. One of the best is NEOM Tender Loving Care Organic Multi Balm, £12 (www.neomorganics.com). The silky smooth texture is packed with eight protecting and moisture rich organic oils. Apply generously and regularly to keep your pout looking and feeling its best.

 EYES: If your eyes are prone to feeling tight and dry in the winter months, there are two courses of action. The first is turning down the central heating, which might not be feasible on the coldest days. The second is swapping to an uber-intensive eye cream and keeping the hydrating eye drops close to hand. The Products The elixir of all eye creams has to be Crème de la Mer The Eye Concentrate, £120 (www.cremedelamer.co.uk). The truth is, younger skins don’t need to use such a highly concentrated eye cream 365 days a year – but swapping to this thirst-quenching treat for the colder months is a smart move. The luscious texture instantly hydrates the skin around and under the eyes, soothing tightness, plumping, and counteracting environmental damage. For an indulgent treat, choose Shiseido Benefiance Pure Retinol Instant Treatment Eye Masks, £49.50 for 12 (www.johnlewis.com). Using pure liquid retinol, the masks energise, hydrate, and pamper tired eyes. Keep a bottle of rehydrating eye drops in your handbag for when eyes feel uncomfortably dry. One of the best on the market is Blink Intensive Tears Protective Eye Drops, from £1.89 (Available from supermarkets nationwide). One dose will keep your eyes moisturised and soothed for up to 60 minutes…

 BODY: What irony… In the summer months, when hemlines rise and necklines drop, we pay scrupulous attention to our skin. When temperatures plunge and our skin needs a generous dose of tender loving care, we hide it away under thick woollies and rarely give it a second thought. Kick start your quest for perfect skin with a selection of thirst-quenching body care products. The Products Firstly, prime your skin with a good body scrub. Clinique Sparkle Skin Body Exfoliating Cream, £16.50 (www.clinique.co.uk) is one of the most indulgent money can buy. Don’t let its rich texture fool you into thinking it’ll do a half-hearted job – hidden exfoliants will work tirelessly to slough away dead skin cells, revealing radiant skin beneath. Choose the richest moisturising cream that you can find and apply it quickly after your bath or shower to lock in moisture. Origins Shedonism, £25 (www.origins.co.uk) is packed full of hydrating Shea Butter, Coconut Oils, and Sweet Almond. The tempting fragrance of Jasmine, Bergamot and Basil will have you counting down the minutes until your next application. When skin needs an emergency pick-me-up, there’s only one product to turn to. Chanel Body Excellence Firming & Rejuvenating Cream, £54 (Counters nationwide) will soften the toughest areas, turning dry flaky areas into skin as soft and polished as silk. Finally, if dry flaky skin on your legs is driving you mad, it’s worth trying This Works: Skin Deep Dry Leg Oil, £32 (www.beautyexpert.co.uk). Combining no less than nine exotic essentials oils, including Evening Primrose Oil, Rosehip Seed Oil, Jojoba Oil, and Peach Kernel Oil, the product penetrates deep within the skin. Pins are left intensely moisturised and boasting an impressive sheen.

 HAIR: Split ends… Frizz… Static… Battling with bad hair days during the colder months? You need to hand pick products that will inject moisture, calm flyaway strands, and bring back that familiar shine. The Products Push your regular shampoo and conditioner to the side – you need products that are packed to the brim with rich hydrators. Bumble and Bumble Crème de Coco Shampoo, £16, and Conditioner, £16.50 (www.spacenk.co.uk) would be an inspired choice. The luxurious blend of ingredients contains coconut and murumuru butter to help restore moisture, shine, and softness. The only way to revive severely damaged locks is by investing in a course of intensive treatments. Paul Lebrecque Lemongrass Hair & Scalp Treatment, £25 (www.beautyexpert.co.uk) is a 5 Week Intensive Repair System, designed to rebuild, strengthen and replenish moisture. Each shot of deliciously scented treatment needs to be heated before use, before being tipped over the hair and scalp and left to work its magic for up to 20 minutes. Once hair has regained its bounce, keep up the moisture levels by regularly applying a rich hair mask. Surya Restorative Hair Mask, £10 (020 7734 1234) uses Preciosa Essential Oil (all the way from the Amazon Rainforest) to deeply condition and add a glossy shine. Its stunning fragrance will cling to hair all day. Dry, coloured hair will benefit from a generous slathering of ESPA Pink Hair & Scalp Mud, £29 (www.espaonline.com). The utterly irresistible rose-coloured mask (mineral rich red and white clay) leaves hair feeling as smooth as silk.

 FEET: As soon as the thermometer drops, our feet are sent into hibernation. Hidden away in tights and boots for months on end, the skin is prone to becoming horribly dry and cracked. Avoid colossal pedicure bills next summer by treating your feet to a regular shot of moisture. The Products Let’s face it, nobody wants to spend hours preening their feet when they’re soon going to be hidden away. Avoid the time-consuming task of scrubbing and sloughing dry skin, by using a cream that will double up as an exfoliator. Philosophy Soul Owner Exfoliating Foot Cream, £14 (0870 9908452) contains glycolic acid to get to work on flaky skin and callouses. Quick, easy, and very effective. Follow up with a thick layer of moisturiser. Saaf Organic Foot Softening Balm, £19.99 (www.saafpureskincare.com) combines cocoa butter, beeswax, and olive oil to banish gnarly dry skin to a distant memory. Better still, the organic balm soothes tired aching feet with Black Seed Oil – massage it generously into feet after a night in skyscraper heels.

 HANDS: Cashmere gloves might protect your hands outdoors, but they wont halt central heating indoors from sapping moisture out of the skin when you least expect it. If your hands are prone to becoming dry, sensitive, red, and cracked during the winter months, you need to work hard to keep up hydration levels. The solution? Keep an intensive hand cream in your bag and dotted in strategic positions around the house – apply often and generously. The Products Hand creams don’t get much richer than Ole Henriksen Hands Forward Supercharged Cream, £20 (Available at Harvey Nichols). The silky cream is packed with shea butter to hydrate, plus kojic acid and sunscreen to fade and protect against hyperpigmentation. Famed for its ability to soften even the driest skin, Aveda Hand Relief, £15.50 (www.aveda.co.uk) will work to exfoliate while also hydrating the skin. You’ll be stunned by how smooth and soft your hands feel after using it, thanks to the vitamin-rich formula containing skin-sloughing fruit acids. The delicious fruity fragrance makes using it a real treat. Small handbag? Urban Retreat UR Nourished Hand & Nail Cream, £6.95 (www.beautique.com) is small enough to fit in a tiny clutch bag. It might be little, but just a small drop of this ultra-light cream goes a long way. Doses of Sweet Almond and Palm Oil leave hands feeling soothed and softened.

Tried & Tested: PRODUCTS FOR THE BUST (05.09.08) 

We’ve tested 6 products that promise to help tone, lift or plump the décolletage and bust…

CLARINS BUST BEAUTY GEL, £35 for 50ml (www.clarins.co.uk)
What they say: Firms, tightens. Recommended after pregnancy or a slimming programme. Rapidly absorbed by the skin. What we say: A stylish glass bottle containing a transparent amber-coloured gel. The fragrance is light and floral. The pump applicator delivers the perfect amount of product onto hands. The Results: I'm approaching 30 and have started to notice small wrinkles appearing on my décolletage – not a place I usually pay attention to in my daily skin care routine. I used this product twice daily for a month and have already started to notice that my skin feels firmer and smoother. The gel is cooling when applied and sinks in easily and quickly - no greasiness or stickiness at all and I could put clothes on straight away. I’m definitely going to continue to use this – a little goes a long way so I think it’ll last for a while.
Best for: First signs of wrinkles

PEVONIA RESTORE NECK AND BUST CONCENTRATE, £45.95 for 30ml (01449 727002)
 What they say: Intense repairing microemulsified gel. Hydrating and smoothing, counteracts ageing and improves skin elasticity. What we say: A small glass bottle containing a lightweight gel that sinks instantly into the skin. The pump applicator makes application easy. The product smells like rose petals. The Results: I’ve started to notice that I’m lacking firmness in the bust area – perhaps because I have recently lost some weight. I used this product once daily for a month, smoothing gently over the décolletage. I loved the light texture of the product, which cooled the skin on contact and didn’t feel at all greasy. My skin is definitely softer and I’ve just started to notice signs of the skin firming up too. I’ll definitely continue to use the concentrate, I can’t wait to see the results after a few more weeks. Best for: Firming and softening

MATIS PARIS BUST GEL, £24.50 FOR 125ML (01322 290101)
What they say: A fluid and easy to apply gel with firming active ingredients to tighten and tone the delicate breast tissue, increasing elasticity and protecting support fibres for an enhanced bust appearance and bikini-ready bust line. What we say: A large blue bottle containing a thick white creamy lotion that leaves a subtle sheen on the skin. The cream has a fresh scent and sinks quickly into skin with no stickiness. The Results: I have lots of concerns about my bust, but the most worrying is that it’s lost its elasticity and definitely needs a good lift. I was dubious that a beauty product could provide any visible results, but after using this cream for the last month (twice a day) I have started to notice a subtle improvement. The first thing I noticed was that the whole area felt far smoother and more hydrated. A few weeks later I noticed that the skin was feeling and looking slightly tighter. I find this product quick and easy to use – it’s definitely staying on my dressing table. Best for: Tightening skin

 ELEMIS PRO-COLLAGEN LIFTING TREATMENT: NECK & BUST, £70 for 50ml (www.timetospa.co.uk)
What they say: Elemis Pro-Collagen Lifting Treatment for Neck And Bust is a revolutionary anti-ageing treatment that is clinically proven to reduce skin crêpiness and increase skin firmness. A powerful solution for slackening skin, minimising the signs of ageing for a smoother, firmer, more youthful-looking neck and bust. What we say: Slick silver packaging with a side indicator to allow you to gauge how much is left. Looks like a cream, but slips on like a gel. A light refreshing fragrance. The Results: I’ve been searching for a product that will help to lift my bust, plus improve fine lines and signs of sun damage. I loved using this product – it felt cool, delicate, and deliciously nourishing – and I looked forward to using it every night before bed. After two weeks, I noticed that the delicate bust area looked more hydrated and nourished. After a month, it looked younger, plumper, and firmer. The fine lines were definitely less noticeable. Best for: Anti-Ageing

THE BODY SHOP BUST FIRMER, £12 for 70ml (www.thebodyshop.co.uk)
 What they say: A light, non-greasy serum that sinks into the skin to visibly improve and firm the appearance of the skin around the bust and décolletage. Firms, smoothes and helps to improve skin tone with regular use and helps to improve skin elasticity over time. What we say: A milky white, lightweight lotion with fresh ocean-fragrance. Cools skin on contact. Sinks quickly into skin and leaves décolletage feeling silky smooth. The Results: I have very dry skin and have started to notice that my chest looks tight and parched, with fine lines rapidly appearing. When I first applied this lotion I noticed a cooling effect on the skin and a slight tingle. I found it easy to fit into my morning routine – I applied after the shower and was able to dress immediately as there was no greasiness on the skin. After a month, I am incredibly impressed. My skin is far smoother and feels baby soft. Best for: Dry parched skin

RODIAL BOOB JOB, £125 FOR 100ML (www.asos.com)
What they say: Always dreamed of a fuller bust but dreaded the thought of going under the knife? With Rodial you will see a gradual increase in cup size within 56 days as well as gaining an instant lifting and firming effect. What we say: A thick silky-smooth lotion that needs to be massaged into skin. Leaves skin feeling incredibly soft. A delicious fruity fragrance. The Results: I’ve always wished I had a bigger bust, but have lacked the funds and confidence to go under the knife. When I heard about this product, I was desperate to give it a try. I loved the rich cream, which smelt delicious and left my skin feeling beautifully soft. I’ve been using the product now for a month and although there have been no dramatic changes, I have definitely noticed that my bra feels tighter and I’m convinced it is plumping my bust. As a bonus, my skin feels tighter and firmer. The product says to use it for 56 days and I can’t wait to see the results after this time. Best for: Plumping