FACE | GETTING SCIENTIFIC ABOUT CHRISTMAS SKINCARE SHOPPING WITH ACADÉMIE SCIENTIFIQUE DE BEAUTÉ

From the age of 14 until I was about 18, I spent most of my summers in France; and I think, by a process of some kind of weird osmosis, I fell in love with French beauty brands which were exclusive to pharmacies and small boutique beauty salons - and totally unheard of back home. You cant help feeling like you have the key to a special secret when you discover one of these brands and its ability to work wonders on your skin. I felt this way about Academie Scientifique when I recently discovered its Seve Miracle cream and the Intense Age Recovery Cream, so I will definitely be giving someone the gift of silky soft skin this season with one of the brand’s gift boxes.

DYNASTIANE EYE CREAM

RADIANCE AQUA BALM

NOURISHING CREAM SÉVE MIRACLE

INTENSE AGE RECOVERY CREAM

ULTIMATE EYE CORRECTOR

The Parisian Radiance Box (€38) is perfect treat for anyone looking to rejuvenate their tired skin during these cold winter months. The Radiance Aqua Balm (50ml) banishes the signs of fatigue and brightens the skin with this treatment rich in apricot extract that delivers an immediate burst of radiance. The Eye Contour Cream Dynastiane (15ml) lessens the appearance of wrinkles leaving the eye area supple. Amazing for revitalising tired dried out skin.

With the Parisian Youth Box (€46) no one will see all that partying catch up on you this festive season! The Nourishing Cream Sève Miracle (50 ml) nourishes and softens the skin reducing the appearance of lines. The Eye Contour Cream Dynastiane (15ml) lessens the appearance of wrinkles leaving the eye area supple. A wonderful gift for anyone wanting to maintain their youthful glow.

The Derm Acte Prestige Box (€65) is the ultimate stocking filler for any skin care lover this Christmas. The Intense Age Recovery Cream (50 ml) fights against the signs of ageing. Helps boost and revitalise the skin by toning and firming. The skin appears brighter and visibly younger looking. The Ultimate Eye Corrector(15ml) is a complete treatment specifically formulated to correct visible signs of ageing, that reduces deep and fine lines leaving the eye area firmer and smoother. It also helps to thicken eyelashes and stimulates their growth.

Académie Beauté's stable of visage products are here to nourish and prolong the skin. Each skin care product of the brand is the result of an uncompromising scientific research in terms of quality and know-how set up by their "beauty artisans". Académie was the first in the world to use collagen (1936) & jojoba oil (1979) in their products and this pioneering & innovative spirit is still a part of the company’s philosophy today. Packed with active ingredients, the products are results-driven but still a pleasure to use.

The Académie Beauté range is available from select professional salons nationwide, for your local Académie salon, please contact 016205493

FACE | KOREAN HAND CREAM FROM EBORIAN...

As some of you know, I’m just back from 10 days in China where I trekked the Great Wall and conquered some pretty big challenges.

On my last day I was let loose in Beijing and discovered some fab beauty emporiums (much needed after 7 days in the dust and wilderness) and these beauty meccas were led by Korean skin experts - I was in heaven!

When I returned I found a sample of the fab new Erborian This is the Hand hand cream, which launches this month. This new hand cream from the Korean-Parisian house of Eborian is perfect for colder winter days as it is packed with anti-ageing, nourishing and smoothing ingredients including White Ginseng Complex and Shea Butter.

Of all  the ginsengs, White Ginseng is the most exceptional. It is known to prevent he appearance of signs of aging, moisturise and repair even the most fragile skin. The cream also contains liquorice root, wild yam root, kigelia fruit and horsetail to protect the skin.

A perfectly affordable Christmas gift or stocking filler at just £9.50.

FACE | WET N WILD FOR CHRISTMAS…

It's finally OK to talk all things Christmas and get started on our shopping lists. It can be challenging finding the perfect gift for that special someone in your life, whether it’s your bestie, work friend, Secret Santa or your sister, but make up brand wet n wild® has launched FIVE amazing Christmas Gift Sets at affordable prices.  Read on… and remember, wet n wild® is available in select pharmacies nationwide, so it’s super easy to pick up, wherever you are.

wet n wild®

Liquid Catsuit Lip Color Collection 4 Piece Mini Catsuit Lip Set (€12.95/£11.50)

This set is perfect for the lip lover in your life, including 2 mini MegaLast® Metallic Catsuit Liquid Lipsticks in shades Life’s No Pink-nic and Acai So Serious AND 2 mini MegaLast® Catsuit Matte Lipstick in shades Rebel Rose and Berry Recognize. These shades are the perfect for Christmas and ideal for your handbag! 

wet n wild® Eye-conic Glam Collection (€14.95/£12.95)

Make a statement this Christmas with a party ready eye look using the Eye-conic Glam Collection. This set includes Lash Renegade Mascara, Color Icon™ Eyeshadow Quad in shade Silent Treatment and Pro Line Felt Tip Eyeliner. This trio is all you need to create a stunning eye look!

wet n wild®

Midnight Goddess Collection (€14.95/£12.95)

Midnight Goddess Collection will bring you from desk to dancefloor with just three products! This set is also the ideal gift set for any makeup fanatics on your shopping list. It contains Color Icon™ 10-Pan Eyeshadow Palette Rosé in the Air, MegaGlo™ Highlighting Powder Precious Petals and MegaLast Lip Color in shade Sandstorm.

wet n wild® Ultimate Brow Set (€14.95/£12.95)

We are all about brows for Christmas, no look is complete without them! The Ultimate Brow Set includes Ultimate Brow Mascara, Ultimate Brow Universal Stencil Kit, Ultimate Brow Highlighter and Ultimate Brow Retractable Pencil.

wet n wild® Essential Brush Bundle (€19.95/£17.50)

The Essential Brush Bundle is perfect for anyone new to makeup, or for the budding makeup artist in your life. This set includes 7 essential cruelty-free brushes – 4 face and 3 eye brushes. You won’t need any other brushes if you stick with these! These brushes have an exclusive design and handles aimed at guaranteeing total comfort and control over your makeup. They’ll brighten up your makeup bag!

Facebook: @wetnwildIreland | Twitter: @wetnwildireland | Instagram: @wetnwildireland

I-ENVY BY KISS LASHES - FOR THE POLISHED AND SOPHISTICATED

You may remember from previous blogs that the ladies from KISS make their way to Belfast each June for a rooftop party, and for the last two years they have brought some pretty amazing weather with them. Now, just in time for Christmas parties (which seem to start earlier and earlier each year - October anyone?!) they are on a mission to ensure professionals and lash-lovers alike have an offering of top-of-the-line products to choose from (and stun with). KISS has worked closely with pro makeup artists to create a new generation of quality lashes, and has hand crafted lashes with premium remy human hair, because compromising on quality is not an option. And these are available exclusively at Penny’s and Primark stores across Ireland.

And although we no longer have a city centre Primark, we do have Ards and Abbeycentre, among other nearby stores. So there’s no excuse to miss out on the most flattering eyes. I’ve listed the styles here - which ones suit you best? I’m an Au Naturale girl through the week and definitely a Juicy Volume gal for the weekend.

I-ENVY BY KISS AU NATURALE 01 & 02 (€3.50)

Your perfect everyday lash. This collection of wispy lashes is designed to blend with the curl of your natural lashes. The lash hair graduates from short to long creating a natural volume effect, and each feature a clear band (invisible to the eye) for that nothing-but-natural look!

I-ENVY BY KISS DIVA (€3.50)

This captivating style is ideal for nights on the town, special events or for when the occasion calls for a transformation, go bold, be dramatic and unleash your inner diva with this collection of statement lashes.

I-ENVY BY KISS SO WISPY (€3.50)

Blur the lines between real and false. The So Wispy collection is made with 100% premium human Remy hair and blends perfectly with your own lashes.

I-ENVY BY KISS JUICY VOLUMEN (€3.50)

These maximum density lashes are designed for you to put your edgiest eye forward (no endless coats of volumizing mascara necessary).

i-Envy by Kiss lashes are exclusive to Penny’s and Primark across Ireland. #BringtheSalonHome

FACE | 'VIVID & VIBRANT' THE MUST-HAVE COLLECTION BY CULT BEAUTY BRAND STILA LAUNCHES ON CLOUD 10 BEAUTY

It’s time to SHINE! Say hello to the most luxurious collection from Stila - Vivid and Vibrant. Bright, rich colours inspired by sapphires, amethysts and other precious gems, this hot collection has it all. Made with exceptional quality, the perfect Autumn make-up drop is available on Cloud 10 Beauty now!

Take a glance at what this hotly anticipated collection has to offer…

Stila Shimmer & Glow Liquid Eye Shadow - Fall 2018 Shades €27.00

Shimmer & Glow Liquid Eye Shadows let you lavish your lids in luxurious colour. Shimmer & Glow Liquid Eye Shadow delivers a splash of pigment-packed pearls that apply effortlessly and dry down to a high-shimmer sheen.

Stila Vivid & Vibrant Eye Shadow Duos €21.00

Stila Vivid & Vibrant Eye Shadow Duos is a stunning twosome of vIvid and vibrant eye shadows with maxed out pigment and vibrant metallic sheen. Each duo contains coordinating metallic and sparkle eyeshadows.

Stila Oh My Stars Glitter & Glow Liquid Eyeshadow Set €27.95

Stila Oh My Stars Glitter & Glow Liquid Eyeshadow Set has 3 favourite shades of Stila's iconic liquid eyeshadow to make sure all eyes are on you!

Stila All That Shimmers Shimmer & Glow Liquid Eyeshadow Set €27.95

Stila In The Nude Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick Set €23.00

Stila All That Shimmers Shimmer & Glow Liquid Eyeshadow Set gives your eyes high-impact, shimmering colour to make a real statement. Adorn your lids with this deluxe-size trio of the long-wearing, lustrous Stila Shimmer & Glow Eyeshadow. Includes favourite shades Kitten and Starlight and the brand new Vivid Smoky Quartz from the Fall 2018 collection.

Stila In The Nude Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick Set is a trio of weightless, full-coverage creamy liquid lipsticks. The three deluxe-size, universally flattering nude shades stay put all day…and night. Includes one shimmer and two matte shades. 

Stila Heaven's Dew – Silverlake €27.00

Stila Heaven's Hue Highlighter – Incandescence €32.00

Stila Heaven's Dew - Silverlake is a brand-new twist on Stila's iconic highlighters. The bouncy-to-the-touch, radiance-enhancing Heaven's Hue highlighter now gives you a brilliant, light-catching effect. Heaven's Dew has a gossamer-light feel without the 'tackiness' of some other highlighters.

Stila Heaven’s Hue Highlighter gives the skin a beautiful, natural-looking glow. The bouncy-to-the-touch texture blends seamlessly into the skin, with the weightless, transfer-resistant texture lasting all day. Ultra-fine, light diffusing particles catch the light and give the skin the glow-from-within look. With three unique shades to choose from, you can customise your highlight for the perfect luminous look.

Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner - Fall 2018 Intense Shades €17.00

Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner €17.00

Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner - Fall 2018 Intense Shades is a collection of "Intense” shades of Stila's #1 selling waterproof liquid liner to give you a flattering new twist on basic black. From thin, precise lines, to thick, dramatic strokes, the formula glides on with ease, dries quickly and won’t smudge or run, day-into-night.

Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner - Fall 2018 is perfect when you want to upgrade your smoky eye past basic black. Mix it up with Stila's vivid collection of Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner shades. With smoldering, intense jade or a smudge of charcoal smoke, these vivid shades add alluring depth to any eye look. The waterproof formula gives you enough time to play, then stays put all day.

Stila Stay All Day® Liquid Lipstick - Fall 2018 Shades includes 6 fabulous new shades of Stila's iconic liquid lipstick. Celebrated for its incredible staying power, lightweight feel, and beautiful matte finish, this award-winning formula has been a cult favourite for years among Stila fans and beauty aficionados alike

Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick - Fall 2018 Shades €19.00

Stila’s Vivid & Vibrant collection is causing a a stir in The F Words office and for good reason. The colours are to die for and who doesn’t want to get their glow on during the Autumn months? We will be ordering this from Cloud 10 Beauty ASAP!

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www.cloud10beauty.com

Cloud 10 Beauty is the ultimate beauty edit. From hero products and niche brands to firm celebrity favourites, Cloud 10 Beauty has them all. Cloud 10 Beauty is always on the hunt for the latest beauty trends, products and advice so you can enjoy the best experience possible.

Cloud 10 Beauty delivers unparalleled customer service with the most lusted after range of beauty products. It also offers free worldwide delivery, free returns, free samples and a great range of special offers.

FACE | GETTING JOLI WITH CLARINS

I love it when a traditional brand takes a bold step with branding, or indeed with product – and Clarins’ latest Joli Rouge collection is a fun focused capsule which celebrates the art of make up with almost Picasso-like artwork on the packaging. J’adore!

There are five new items in time for Autumn/Winter, including a waterproof gel liner, mascara and 3 new bold, two-toned lipsticks.

The Waterproof Gel Liner, which comes in one colour (intense black), has a smooth gel texture and is accompanied by its very own brush (which is brilliant at a price point of £26.50) is intensely pigmented so it will provide up to 12 continuous hours of wear against sweat, water and humidity, ideal for those catching the last of the summer sun, or music festivals across Europe

The Supra Volume Mascara, which again only comes in one colour (also intense black) is infused with wax from the cassia flower, allowing you two achieve instantly bolder lashes. The mascara, combined with the waterproof gel liner, makes for the perfect sultry, smouldering eye look, great for both during the day, or nighttime.

The most exciting part of the new Autumn Make-up collection however has to be the new two-toned lipsticks, which come in three differing colours, ‘Coral cooler months ahead. The two-tones on each product actually sculpt the lips and blend to make a perfect ombre, giving the lips a plump and full effect. These lipsticks have a satin finish and are very moisturizing, which also helps with the colder climes. Although there are only 3 shades (6 colours all together), the colour-scheme is very broad, spanning from (as the shade names explain), corals, to reds, to deeper plum and purple tones. All of these will enhance both your final makeup look and outfit, giving you a chic, autumnal vibe.

If you’re unsure about which products to get, or which will suit your complexion best, Clarins is offering every customer 3 free samples with any online order under £400, a perfect excuse to venture into their other makeup products or even their highly effective skincare!

FACE | FENTY BEAUTY BY RIHANNA COLLECTION COMING TO BELFAST!

Listen up beauty-lovers, have I got news for you!

It’s the collection we have all been waiting for. I, for one, have been eagerly devouring every bit of news as it travelled around the UK and it is finally set to land in Belfast tomorrow! Yup that’s right, the long-anticipated Fenty Beauty by Rihanna collection pop-up shop will be at Custom House Square from 10am tomorrow and we CAN’T wait!

The pop-up shop, which will be in Belfast all day tomorrow (28 July) and on Sunday from 11am-6pm, will be dressed up with a sultry, sexy Moroccan spice market vibe (obvs) and will give you the chance to try and buy the new Moroccan Spice Collection which is a full eye-focused assortment hand-picked by leading lady Rihanna herself – and it doesn’t disappoint!

 The collection features mild, medium and spicy shades in a richly pigmented formula that allows you to create an eye look for every occasion (yay). Also available is the Flyliner Longwear Liquid Eyeliner which is designed with an innovative triangle shape and an extra-long tip for easy application – making it super-easy to create that perfect line (double-yay, I mean no more sellotape or messy flicks, it’s what beauty dreams are made of!). Finish the look with the new Pro Dilt’r Amplifying Eye Primer and new eye brushes for looks that last as all night long!

Oh and that’s not all – the Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Morocan Spice Market will also include the full Fenty Beauty by Rihanna assortment, including the 40 shades of Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation as well as Cult favourite Stunna Lip Paint and the new mega-reflective Killawatt foils!
Then why not finish your visit at the custom hookah lounge for the ultimate beauty retreat?

Taking place for two days only on 28th and 29th July from 10:00am – 8:00pm and 11:00am-6:00 pm it really is an event not to be missed!

See you there!

Cathy x

FACE | Dad’s The Word - The ultimate gift guide for Father’s Day

This Sunday we’re celebrating Dad. From being there through all of those big, life-changing moments & standing by your side through every little thing in between, there’s no doubt about it that the best dad deserves the very best gift this Father’s Day.

But men can be hard to shop for, I mean with no ‘Saved for Later’ baskets or Instagram #inspo to direct us, coupled with the fact they seem to have absolutely everything along with a disinterest for dropping any sort of hints (or perhaps us ladies just make gifting too easy…) - it is safe to say that finding the perfect gift for dad (or husband/baby-daddy) can often be a tall task.

So to help get you started, we have chosen some of our favourite gifts to make saying thanks this Father’s Day that little bit easier…

First up, are these super-luxurious Clinique gift sets which include a trio of products at a great price. And if that isn’t enough, all of Clinique’s products are also allergy tested and 100% fragrance-free, so even the most sensitive of skin can feel the benefits.

Clinique Daily Hydration Kit £26.99

This trio of daily face products includes Clinique For Men’s Charcoal Face Wash (50ml), Cream Shave (60ml) and Moisturising Lotion (100ml) and is perfect for men with drier skins. The customised formulas will keep skin feeling super smooth and comfortable whilst the smaller size makes it the perfect travel companion.

The Charcoal Face Wash draws out pore-clogging dirt and excess oil, while the Cream Shave provides a rich buffer against razor drag and nicks - ensuring dad gets the perfect shave each and every time.

The full-size Moisturising Lotion delivers weightless, all-day hydration leaving skin super healthy-looking and revitalised. For something a little bit extra, another alternative to this would be the Clinique Daily Intense Hydration Kit £36.99 which swaps the Moisturising Lotion for a full-size ultralight Maximum Hydrator which delivers a 179% moisture boost for instantly plumper skin.

Clinique Daily Oil Control £26.99

This set of customised formulas keeps skin clear and shine-free. As well as the Oil Control Face Wash which thoroughly cleanses and removes excess oil and the luxurious Cream Shave you also get a full-size Mattifying Moisturiser which delivers lightweight, oil-free hydration – plus, it helps skin stay matt all day long. 

Also from Clinique is the Daily Age Repair Kit £33.50, which includes the Charcoal Face Wash, Cream Shave and full-size Anti-Age Moisturiser. This trio works together to combat lines, wrinkles and dullness to deliver a younger, revitalised look.

Next up, we head over to Lab Series which does great skincare for men. Their best-selling High Performance Duo set (£37.00) includes the Multi Action Face Wash (100ml) and the PRO LS All-In-One Face Treatment (100ml) which work together for powerful results – everyday skincare has never been easier – perfect for dads that are always on the go!

Another top pick is The Grooming Oil 3-IN-1 Shave & Beard Oil £27.00 which is a triple-blend grooming oil that delivers an all-in-one solution for shave and beard care. Sea Buckthorn Oil, Jojoba Oil and Sweet Almond Oil blend with vitamins and hydrators to tackle each grooming need including; pre-shave, shave and beard, improving manageability, smoothness and shine.

Why not help dad stay protected this summer with the brand new Day Rescue Defense Lotion SPF 35 (£31.00)? This lightweight, invisible daily moisturiser with SPF and Hydra-Endure Technology helps combat the visible effects of sun, dry climate, and pollution – environmental damage that can lead to dehydrated skin and premature aging. The product is also suitable for use on bald heads.

So, now that you’ve found the perfect gift, it’s time to get gifting! Happy Father’s Day!

FACE | KAT VON D – MAKE UP FOR ME!

By Siva O’Neil – F Words Intern

In April, Kat Von D Beauty celebrated it’s one-year anniversary in Debenhams Belfast and in that time the brand has gone from strength to strength, continuing to grow and launch award-winning products. In celebration, F Words editor had a full make up session with the on-counter team and brought me back goodies to try, so I’m going to be talking about all things KVD!

Kat Von D is renowned for her work within the world of tattoos, thanks to her outstanding skills and her world-famous shop, High Voltage Tattoo. She took the leap into the world of beauty in 2008, with inspiration coming from the inks used in her tattoo parlour. She wanted to specialise in highly pigmented products that were long lasting and cruelty free – thus Kat Von D Beauty was born. Since then she has garnered a cult following with various hero-products now being the must-haves for makeup lovers, myself included!

Lock-It Foundation

With its creamy and highly pigmented formula, the Lock-It Foundation is the ultimate flexible, full coverage and buildable foundation – plus with 30 shades and undertones, Kat will have the perfect shade for you!

Tattoo Liner

Kat’s Tattoo Liner has become the benchmark when it comes to liners, and it’s no wonder! With its innovative brush tip, and highly pigmented, 24-hour wear formula, it glides across the lid and creates bulletproof wings every time.

Shade + Light Eye Contour Palette

The Shade + Light Eye Contour palette has been created with the perfect blends of neutral, warm and cool tones, and like all of Kat’s products, these shadows are highly pigmented to give you the best payoff and amazing blendability.

Kat Von D Beauty’s newest product – Studded Kiss Crème Lipsticks – are sure to wow you as much as her hero products. The formula has been updated, the shade range extended, and the packaging given a new look – all which embody Kat’s personality: romantic yet edgy, classy yet sexy. There are 40 shades, in 3 finishes to choose from, with everything from nudes to bold pops of colours, and an all-new ‘White Out’ shade, an opaque white, designed with artists in mind to mix and customise the perfect lip shade.

We got to try out the shades ‘Hexagram’ and ‘Ophelia’ which are both beautiful satin-matte finishes, and unlike a regular matte finish lipstick, the formula is virtually weightless, non-drying and incredibly comfortable on the lips; the consistency of both is very creamy and are both highly pigmented – definitely a product to add to your makeup bag!

As with all Kat Von D Beauty products, Kat has personally tried, tested and approved the formulation and everything is 100% Vegan and cruelty-free. This is something that Kat is very passionate about, and her passion has helped her win multiple awards including the Animal Rights National Conference Celebrity Animal Advocate Award.

Kat Von D Beauty is available now exclusively on Debenhams.com, Debenhams.ie and in selected Debenhams stores.

FACE | GLOW AESTHETICS OPENS

GET THE GLOW!

Whether or not you opt for that extra needle in facial aesthetics in the form of fillers and anti-wrinkle injections (AKA Botox),  the processes are here to stay, but as the industry grows it is important to consider where you have treatments done, and by whom!

This week I got the chance to pop along to the launch of the new GLOW Aesthetics clinic at the Culloden Estate and Spa and met with Emma Kennedy and William Trainor, both experienced hospital nurses who have been working in aesthetics for over a decade.

Their new clinic, located in the sumptuous surroundings of the Culloden spa, offers Teoxane fillers for lips, cheeks and jawline as well as Botox for all the usual areas, should you wish to try it; plus a range of cosmeceutical Treatments to make your skin glow!

And as I always like to try new things that I've not ventured into before, I have decided to give the derma-planing a go, and will report back in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile check out the full treatment and price list here - and quote GLOW20 when booking to get £20 off your first treatment. Whoop! Call 07719326507 to book.

FACE | OH LA LOLA!

As I write this there is a glimmer of sunset sunshine resting on the horizon and, being the ever-optimist, I am doing a little sundance and hoping that the never-ending winter may finally be coming to an end (well, a gal can always dream…)

So, as we start to look towards longer (and hopefully warmer) days ahead, I have been revamping my makeup bag with the help of my lovely beauty godmother LOLA by Perses.

LOLA by Perses first came into my radar when I was checking out their website (www.lolamakeup.com) and the pretty NARS-esque packaging caught my eye. A UK-based brand, the cruelty-free beauty line is the brainchild of a creative team of talented British make-up artists who created it with the aim of producing quality makeup at reasonable prices. So when they kindly sent me a few items to try I was more than a little bit excited!

So, without further ado, here are some of the Lola products I have been trying out this month;

LOLA PERFECT SKIN – ILLUMINATING BASE

The Lola primer comes in a small tube – only 15ml - but don’t let the size put you off, as you only need a small amount to cover your entire face. I added a pea sized amount to the back of my hand and the first thing I noticed was the gorgeous velvety texture. It applies easily to the skin and instantly reduces the appearance of any large pores and fine lines – meaning it automatically gets a thumbs up from me!
It also managed to keep my makeup in place all day (even through umpteen meetings and with the heating blasting in the office, which is no mean feat!)-  and it left my skin with a gorgeous subtle glow.
You can also use it as a highlighter making it the perfect multi-purpose product in one tube!

LOLA MATTE LONG LASTING LIQUID FOUNDATION

The LOLA foundation was presented in a lovely frosted glass bottle and when I picked it up I was also pleasantly surprised by the weight – this definitely has the feel of a lovely luxury product so I was very surprised to see that it comes in at under £20!
The built in pump dispenses the correct amount of foundation so you aren’t left with lots of unneeded product, making it one of my favourites to date!

First up, the foundation has a lovely creamy texture and blended into my skin well using a beauty blender sponge. The soft-focus effect visibly reduces imperfections, fine lines and pores giving you an instant ‘gram ready complexion in minutes!
It also has oil-absorbing properties which helps minimise shine – perfect if you suffer from combination or oily skin.

I am extremely impressed by the foundation and it definitely competes with some of my favourites, and I don’t say that lightly! With the buildable coverage I was able to achieve medium coverage without losing the lovely natural finish which I love and it also feels super lightweight so you almost feel like you aren’t wearing makeup at all! 

HIGHLIGHTING CONCEALER PEN

After applying my foundation I added this under my eyes to hide any dark circles (that may have appeared following the non-stop business of FASHIONWEEK where sleep was 4 hours pre night max…) and was instantly impressed. This liquid concealer was extremely light and blended flawlessly. Pearl-coated pigments left my skin glowing and the cream melted into my skin effortlessly. It is also perfect for quick touch-ups throughout the day.

LOLA LONG LASTING INTENSE COLOUR LIP GLOSS

I am a big fan of lip gloss – especially in the summer, so I couldn’t wait to try these. I tried colours rose pink, pink shimmer and rose.
All of the glosses were highly pigmented and had long lasting water-shine; they also didn’t feel sticky on the lips, which I liked. All of these colours are tones I would normally wear and came up as soft feminine shades (The rose pink gloss had a gorgeous salmon pink hue, whilst the pink shimmer was a lovely peach tone – perfect for your holidays and lastly the rose was a subtle nude tone with high shine - great for everyday wear).
The glosses also contain hydrating Hyaluronic Acid which works in combination with an active vitamin complex to help condition lips and give a plumped appearance.

VERDICT

I am super impressed with the LOLA products and they definitely compete with some of my favourite products – albeit at half the price tag! The creators of the brand had an aim to make it easier for women everywhere to apply makeup effortlessly - and with hundreds of products, shades and options, I think it is fair to say they have succeeded.

So, if you haven’t already tried these products I would add them to your wish list pronto! They are available via their website and have also recently landed in Menary’s stores across Northern Ireland too, which is handy for my local readers. Enjoy!

FACE | THE ELIXIR OF LIFE

The word elixir usually conjures up images of a secret potion designed to prolong life or give the gift of eternal youth or beauty, and so it’s not a bad name for a clinic whose product can, essentially - albeit indirectly - do both to a certain degree.

I visited the Elixir Clinic in Wimpole Street, London just last weekend, and if you followed my Instagram stories on the day, (or now, in my highlights) you’ll know that, unlike the last time I had an IV vitamin infusion, I came to this one slightly dehydrated and fuzzy from a few glasses of wine the night before.

But I feel unfair starting with that info, because a hangover cure this is not, despite the rumours and hype created by Rihanna and Cara Delevigne, or previously by the Rolling Stones in their heyday when they enjoyed Dr Meyer’s famed vita-cocktails after a busy night rock n rollin’. Nope, this is a credible health and well-being treatment, and from a purely beauty perspective, it is akin to a super-facial or head to toe body treatment with all the work being done from the inside. (Although it does also make you feel wonderful, despite the night-before-wine, I have to say - curing headache, tiredness and nausea in minutes, as well as replenishing skin, hair and nails with zero calories, so it’s much better than a greasy spoon solution).

In short, it’s a 45minute treatment whereby a fusion of vitamins, minerals and amino acids are inserted into the bloodstream intro-venously. And just to cut to the chase, the results are bloody brilliant.  

‘But why not just pop a vitamin pill?’, I hear you ask. Well, one of the problems with oral supplements is that they're not fully bioavailable - in other words, they're not fully absorbed. By delivering them intravenously, the bioavailability is 100pc; you're injecting it directly into the veins. The body absorbs exactly what it needs and no more - so there is no chance of overdoing it.

We don’t know exactly what the content and ratios of each of the VitaDrip formulae are, but there are medically pre-designed combinations for Adrenal Fatigue, Immunity Boosting, Mood Boosting, New Motherhood and Jet Lag, among others. The combinations were created by the clinic’s founders - two former Harley Street nurses - and they have locations in the Middle East as well as three locations in London (at The Ned Hotel in the City and within Harrods Wellness Centre, as well as the Marylebone clinic that I visited).  I plumped for the Fitness drip, but there is  also a bespoke option in which you can have a drip made to your exact requirements on  that particular day.  As you can imagine, the benefits are enjoyed and prolonged with a healthy diet  and proper hydration.

The downside? Needle-phobes may need to look away as the small cannula is slotted into place and hooked up to the type of IV stand often seen in hospitals. My left arm veins wouldn’t take, so we had to hook up the right arm, but it wasn’t painful at all, in fact the only disadvantage was that I couldn’t text or email as the arm has to remain outstretched and straight, so I was forced to lie back and just relax. Quelle Horreur!

And then, just an hour after entering the clinic with a dull head and feeling tired, I left with a spring in my step and slept like a baby that night.

So, to conclude, does the drip actually work - or is it money down the vein? In my opinion - it TOTALLY works. I felt fantastic and really rejuvenated and I would challenge anyone not to feel the same. Many people claim to see immediate differences in their skin and hair, although to be honest I didn’t, but then I wasn’t looking, plus my skin is quite well hydrated anyway.

The cost isn’t massively prohibitive either - the last clinic I went to charged around £500, but the pre-mix VitaDrip with pre medical screening at Elixir costs approx £200. One of my favourite slogans at the moment is ‘You think wellness is expensive? You should try illness?’ and this is a perfect example of prevention rather than cure, when it comes to health and wellbeing these days.

For a full price list and further information, please visit www.theelixirclinic.com

FACE | GOING GREEN

I have chosen to go ‘green’ this St. Patrick’s Day, but not necessarily in the context of the colour of the Emerald Isle… Instead, I have recently been given the chance to try out two brands, namely Inika and Evolve - Organic Beauty, which are green in the sense that they are cruelty free and vegan make-up/skin care ranges consisting of products for the face, eyes, lips and hands. 

The Inika products are 100% Halal and come in a luxurious, classy black and gold packaging which is made from recycled materials (and is also cruelty free). The Evolve product is hand made using 99.7% natural products. And as I love all things organic, I couldn’t wait to try out these gorgeous products with no nasties to harm my skin along the way. 

I got to try a gorgeous blush and two different eye products from Inika, along with a blemish serum from Evolve, all of which helped me look my best with less harmful chemicals applied to my face.

Inika Loose Mineral Blush – Red Apple (£23)

Inika says: - ‘Containing light reflecting pigments to give cheeks a gorgeous glow, it will promote a healthy warm glow while adding texture and radiance for a natural finish’. 

As this blush is finely milled, it allows for a beautiful blend on the skin. It is free from oil, alcohol, fillers, fragrance - and preservatives too, prioritising the health of your skin (which we could all benefit from). For application of this blush you can apply to the cheeks as desired, however as it is highly pigmented - so a little goes a long way. This shade (Red Apple) in particular gives a deep rosy glow on the cheek adding life to your complexion. It was very slightly too red for me, but I’d wanted to try the shade anyway to test pigmentation depth, and in any case, there is also ‘Blooming Nude’ and ‘Peachy Keen’ which would be more my usual shades (check them out online, they are really fab colours). Additionally, if the loose blush doesn’t tickle your fancy, Inika also has a range of stunning baked blushers to help you achieve the desired glow in a way that is suited to you.

Inika Pressed Mineral Eye Shadow Duo – Gold Oyster (£22)

Inka says: - ‘Each shadow boasts a high performance mineral colour that is rich in pigment, crease-proof and long lasting.’

This gorgeous warm toned duo shade is the perfect ‘go-to’ eye shadow, as you can easily use both shades to create a simple yet stunning every day look (which you can also pop in your handbag). The shadows are great for sensitive eyes as there are no added harmful chemicals and as they are ‘crease free’, those of us with hooded eyes or matured skin can rely on these without fear of smudges or a dreaded patchy eye look. For application, Team Inika recommends that you use a base - the Inika Perfection Concealer, or simply your preferred concealer or primer, for best results. The pigment of this particular shadow is nice and natural, which allows for building the product’s intensity as you like it, plus it makes blending easy - mistakes are easily fixed.

There is a selection of seven shades available in the Mineral Duo Shadow collection, ranging from these golden warm tones to much more cool tones to achieve whatever look you wish. If you’re indecisive like me and don’t want to limit yourself to two shades, you can also opt for their ‘Day to Night’ palette which offers a variety of 7 (mostly warm toned) shades - perfect for the most natural look right up to the most intense look.

Inika Certified Organic Eye Pencil – Graphite (£14.50)

Inika says: - ‘Handcrafted pencils with natural plant ingredients and mineral colour blends. Soft and creamy texture that wears all day without smudging’.

With coconut oil as the key ingredient of this product, it is hard to go wrong - and it makes this pencil so perfect for the most sensitive eyes. This shade, ‘Graphite’ is a gorgeous grey, which I think is perfect for everyday wear as it is not too dark yet still adds definition to your lash line. With a creamy consistency it gracefully glides on to the lash line with no drag when applying. I love that you can apply it to the lower lash line, above your lash line, or generally all over the lid for a more smoked-out dramatic effect. It is long lasting and smudge free, perfect for a long day at work or even for a special occasion. Paired with the duo shadows you can achieve a full glam look if you top up.

With nine shades in the collection, ranging from the darkest ‘Black Cavier’, or the most colourful ‘Pure Purple’ to brighten up your eyes, these liners are suitable for any time of day or occasion. Again, if the pencil liner doesn’t seem appealing to you, Inika also offers a liquid liner if that is your preference. 

Good news - at the minute if you subscribe to ‘The Healthy Revolution’ mailing list on the Inika website you will be first in the know about offers and new releases and you’ll receive £5 off your first order with FREE shipping.

Evolve Organic Beauty- Blemish Serum (£22)

Evolve says: - ‘This natural yet powerful skin treatment can be used on blemish prone and congested skin at any age as well as oily and combination skin to decrease sebum production and blemishes, leaving skin clearer and helping to protect skin from future breakouts’.

In other words, this can be described as handmade heaven in a bottle. It is recommended to apply this ‘rainforest rescue serum’ to clean skin morning and night, however if you have an unwanted spot that you need banished before an important event, you could apply this throughout the day as necessary for fast results. Within a day or two, your blemish will be visibly better with little inflammation. This serum is unlike other blemish care products due to its organic nature, and it does not sting or irritate skin making the little extra price worth it. As it’s a serum, I know those with oily skin will fret - however it is totally suitable as it is a non-oil based serum with a great consistency.

These types of organic products mentioned are definitely the way forward in skin care and make up technology, as they’re suitable for sensitive skin and also aren’t harmful to the environment. I most certainly will be going green with the help of these organic goodies in my beauty bag this St Patricks Day. Will you?

FACE | FACING FACTS WITH SENSEE

When the Sensee Facial Contour Definer arrived in the office there was definitely a tittle tattle and a whisper among the team to ascertain whether I’d ordered a sexy toy from Mya or Agent Provocateur, when in fact my pretty package contained a beautiful and ergonomic rose-gold-coloured, hand-held facial massager. (Gosh that was a mouthful!)

Arriving in a beautiful white box, first impressions were excellent, and I was also pleasantly surprised to find that it has a lovely weight to it – this is definitely a quality product.

Although I am lucky to have been blessed with good genes, there is no escaping the fact that as we get older our skin starts to lose its elasticity, so, from luxurious creams and regular facials to drinking copious amounts of water – my best beauty secret – I work hard to maintain some sort of firmness and protection for my skin. Promising to instantly relieve tension, boost blood circulation, stimulate collagen production annnd activate lymphatic drainage to detoxify skin – the Sensee derma roller was hot on my wish list…

Ok - I know what you’re thinking, the shape is certainly interesting and I can’t deny that it looks a little phallic; you may even get some awkward stares if you open this one in the office like I did, but, the truth is, it looks that way because of the job it needs to do - and it has to be said that it is actually a great design that really works - it fits nicely in the hand while the two massage rollers are positioned at the perfect angle to fit any face shape.  

So how does it work?

Following the instructions, I held the handle and swept the roller along the edge of my jawline in an upwards motion for 5 minutes on each side. It was really easy to use, moving seamlessly up my jawline. As advised, I added this into my daily skincare routine, using it after moisturising each morning and evening and it wasn’t long before it became second nature. 

The roller balls have grooves across them which help give a really nice massage effect for an extra bonus. The whole experience left me feeling very relaxed and reduced any previous puffiness much to my delight. I read that the roller is also adaptable so you can use it all over your body, from your arms to your neck. It also doesn’t require batteries which I LOVE, you literally pick it up and do the work yourself. As the roller ball rotates it brings nutrients and oxygen to the collagen and elastin-producing cells in our face, resulting in younger, healthier looking skin.

So far I have only used it on my face and I have definitely noticed changes. My skin feels firmer and definitely stays hydrated for longer, I read online that like the massage techniques of a facialist, derma rollers help the skin absorb moisturiser and gives skin that lovely natural glow so maybe that is why. Incorporating this into my normal skincare routine has been easy and I am definitely going to use it on other areas of my skin in the future to see how it fares there…

Final verdict - this is a gorgeous product that is high quality and will last for years and I would definitely recommend investing in one (although maybe best not to leave it on your bedside table to avoid any awkward explanations)…

http://senssebeauty.com/product/facial-contour-definer/
 

FACE | A SLICE OF URBAN VEDA

I for one am so glad January is over, with its plethora of skin-damaging elements like excessive heating and frosty air, (and sometimes the lack of fresh air from staying inside so much). The combination has a terribly negative effect on my complexion and although February (so far) hasn’t seen much better weather, the budding daffodils are bringing me positive thoughts of spring.

February comes from the Latin Februum, which means to renew or to be reborn, and this month I am having a skin detox to help restore my skin’s complexion.  I’m aiming to try products which are as natural as possible and I’m kick starting the process with the help of Urban Veda.

The Urban Veda range follows the Ayurvedic Indian philosophy of health and wellbeing by harnessing the holistic and therapeutic power of plants – this means there are no nasties hidden in their formulae - they don’t contain parabens, SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulphate), or GM (genetically modified) ingredients (phew!), so it’s an instant thumbs up from me. 

The natural and organic ingredients together with multi-vitamins maintain the skin’s natural balance, preventing breakouts and other conditions resulting from excessive damage from the environment – so far, so good!

I have been using the facial wash and body cream from the Urban Veda Radiance range which is designed to give tired skin a natural glow – and who doesn’t want radiant skin?
The ingredients speak for themselves in this luxurious mix of gloopy goodness; anti-inflammatory turmeric reduces redness and puffiness, a mix of botanicals including coriander to help brighten skin, whilst anti-oxidant rich marigold ensures skin is cleansed and hydrated.

The first point to note is that the range smells amazing, which is always a bonus - when you smell good you feel good, right? I have been using the facial wash for a month now and the gentle formula glides easily onto my skin and removes all traces of makeup (even my stubborn smokey eye make up – annnd it does this without excessive rubbing – which of course is a cause for celebration alone!). In short, it leaves my skin feeling luxuriously smooth. The facial wash also contains Patchouli  which helps heal dry or inflamed skin (it is also said to be good at reducing scarring if a breakout has left its unwanted marks on your skin) leaving skin fresh and hydrated. I’m a soap and water kinda gal, so this wins all the Brownie Points for me.

Next up is the Radiance Body Lotion, which is packed with healing botanical extracts, including sweet almond oil (which I adore) to moisturise and nourish.  The lotion is thick and gorgeously creamy, but absorbed quickly into my skin – without leaving it feeling too oily or sticky. It also smells divine, cocooning my body in its gorgeous floral & herb scent and left my skin feeling super-soft all day - and all month while I trialled it.

My verdict? Bathroom must-haves! I will definitely be trying out other products in the Radiance range as well as trying some of their other ranges, (they also have a purifying, reviving and soothing range as well). 

FACE | L'OCCITAINE AND RIFLE PAPER

When Provence, land of enchantment, meets the vibrant feminine flair of an inspiring stationery and lifestyle brand.

This week last year I was milling around Provence searching for truffles among the oak trees of rural farms, so it is fitting that, this week this year, I write about a company whose very scent - when I walk into its stores - reminds me of that part of the world. L’Occitaine was founded in 1976 and has retained a simple and natural ethos in everything it does since.

Likewise, Rifle Paper Co, enjoys a similar approach.  “I started Rifle Paper Co. with the hope of bringing beauty to the everyday,” says Rifle Paper Co.  co-founder and Creative Director Anna Bond, “I’m thrilled to partner with L’OCCITANE, a brand that shares the same sense of small pleasures,  as we create a custom collection inspired by the gardens of Provence.”

Look out for the limited edition RIFLE PAPER Co. collection at L’OCCITAINE, which captures scents, lights and textures of South of France to adorn the iconic Shea range  with exclusive designs. Leaves, nuts and Shea blossoms blend blissfully  in this colourful collaboration, if the cream inside weren’t so bloomin’ fabulous I’d almost suggest you keep the container as a memento or collector’s item.

Speaking of the hand cream, L’OCCITAINE’s Classic hand cream has been called a “beauty must” and “lifesaving” by people around the world. Enriched with 20% organic Shea Butter, (which is 100% natural origin, certified organic and comes straight from the nuts of the Karite tree in Burkina Faso), the super-creamy balm penetrates quickly and helps to protect, nourish and moisturise hands. Its yummy formula blends honey, almond extract and coconut oil with the Shea Butter to leave hands soft and smooth but never greasy.

Available in store since 18 January

FACE | WARM UP WITH YONKA!

I’m shattered! Anyone else?

The month of January seemed to arrive in a gusty, impatient blast, just like Storm Eleanor which brought in the New Year for many. And now, after a very busy few weeks which included launching the twenty-fifth season of Belfast FASHIONWEEK (I still remember the first one like yesterday!) I am finally catching my breath and taking a moment for some much-needed time out.

Most nights when Valentina goes to bed, you won’t find me on the sofa binge watching Netflix series, but instead, sitting with my laptop catching up on my mountain of emails and working until the early hours of the morning just to stay on top of things. But at New Year I resolved to take a relaxing bath once a week to settle myself before a good night’s sleep

Thus far, the gorgeously luxurious YON-KA Paris has been helping me find my inner feng-shui…
In keeping with my New Year’s resolution I have been using the Phyto-Bain Bath Oil, a highly aromatic bath treatment with plant extracts and essential oils known for their multiple therapeutic virtues.  I added 1 tablespoon to my bath which was more than enough and was quickly enveloped in a relaxed bubble of tranquil bliss! Perfect for relieving tired legs and restoring full vitality, this would be great after a long, busy day or equally as good when you simply need a little down time.

If you really want to take your experience to the next level invest in the YON-KA Limited Edition Aromatic Candle which allows you to bring the spa home with three delicious scents – Cedar, Quintessence and Orange Blossom, you can also take one travelling with you to make a home away from home. 

Synonymous with luxury, YON-KA is the go to brand in many top salons and, once you try the products, it is easy to see why it is one of my faves.  The family-owned brand was established in 1954 and combines nature, science and wellness to create products that are simply irresistible. I have previously used (and reviewed their lotions and the hero-product which is the Micellar Cleansing Water. It removes all traces of makeup effortlessly without the need for any pressure scrubbing! (Perfect if you’re like me and don’t always have the time to spend on your skincare routine.) The anti-aging formula also has a lovely fresh scent and leaves skin super-soft and totally refreshed. If you suffer from oily skin, they also have Crème PG, a mattifying moisturiser which purifies the skin whilst eliminating shine – it also smells divine and makes a great base for your makeup!

But lemme get back to this bath…  I can almost feel my inner chakras balancing out…

Nightie night!

FACE | STOP THE CLOCK! TIME'S UP

If you are anything like me, then you successfully danced, drank and ate your way through the first part of January like Christmas never ended and now find yourself paying for over-indulging with a tired, lacklustre complexion – which was most definitely not on my agenda for 2018, but what’s a gal to do?!

I think we can all agree that in general, the whole Christmas-New Year period wreaks havoc with our skin - between late nights, cold weather, alcohol and way too much sugar. (Leftover mince pie, anyone?) So, now that the festivities are very firmly behind us, it is time to wave goodbye to the excesses of 2017 and give our skin (and ourselves) the TLC we need. So it’s out with the old and in with the new; and the newest product to be added to my collection is the ABC Vitamin solution from the Time Bomb range which I have been trying this month.

As we age our skin starts to lose its ability to absorb key, health-sustaining vitamins, so in order to combat this problem, Time Bomb has created a serum which works while you sleep to deliver an infusion of vital nutrients full of concentrated age-delayers to keep your complexion smooth, tight and bright – just what my dehydrated skin is looking for.
It’s kinda like a grown up version of the tooth fairy, except this fairy doesn’t take our teeth -  and instead of money delivers us youthful, brighter skin while we sleep, so I definitely approve!

After cleansing and toning as normal before bed I applied this to my skin and instantly noticed how light it was, a little goes a long way so you don’t need much. In fact, one press of the pump is enough to cover your whole face. Admittedly, I am not a big fan of heavy serums, especially at night time as I feel it can leave my skin feeling sticky and heavy, so the consistency of this was perfect for me.

It was easily absorbed and instantly my skin felt super- smooth to touch. I then applied my night cream as advised and went straight to the land of nod. In the morning my skin felt tighter and after continued use I noticed a very welcomed glow had begun to reappear on my skin.

I have been using this for a few weeks now and I must say, so far, so good. The super-hydrating formula has replaced my dull, wintery complexion with a lovely bright glow and my skin is definitely smoother. I have tried many serums and for me, this compares well to more expensive products out there. Looking at the ingredients list scared me at first as it looked so chemical, but many of these are actually chemical names for the good stuff. It is packed with ingredients including; Vitamin A, which reduces fine lines and wrinkles; Vitamin B3 and B12 which boost cells and improve tone and circulation; Vitamin C to brighten skin; Bakuchioi which is a Japanese herb that mimics retinoid but is kinder to skin;  Squalane which renews skin suppleness; and finally, Hyaluronic Acid which is a natural moisture magnet to plump and firm skin texture – now that is what I call the perfect blend of skin goodness!  

Ingredients

AQUA (WATER), GLYCERIN, CETYL ETHYLHEXANOATE, PROPANEVIOL, GLYCERETH-26, CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE, PROPYHEPTYL CAPRYLATE, SQUALANE. CETEARYL ALCOHOL, HELIANTHUS ANNUS (SUNFLOWER) SEED OIL, MAGNESIUM ACORBYL PHOSPAHE (VITAMIN C), RETINOL (VIATMIN A), CYANOCOBALAMIN (VITAMIN B12), BAKUCHIOL, CAMELLIA JAPONICA (TEA) SEED OIL, NIACINAMIDE (VITAMIN B3), PHOSPHOLIPIDS, SODIUM HYALURONATE, POLYGLYCERYL-10 STEARATE, PHENOXYETHANOL, PEG-40 HYDROGENTATED CASTOR OIL, HYDROGENTATED POLYISOBUTENE, ETHYHEXYLGLYCERIN, PPG-26-BUTETH-26, HYDROLYZED CORN STARCH, CITRUS GRANDIS (GRAPHEFRUIT) EXTRACT, CETEARETH-20, ZEA MAYS CORN STARCT, XANTHUM GUM, SODIUM ACRYLATES COPOLYMER, LURAYL LAURATE, POLYSORBATE-20, PPG-3 BENZYL ETHER MYRISTATE, BHT, POTASSIUM SORBATE, SILICA, PEI-10, BHA, SODIUM BENZOATE, DISODIUM EDTA, DMDM HYDANTOIN, TOCOPHEROL (VITAMIN E), BUTYLENE GLYCOL, IODOPROPYNYL BUTYLCARBAMATE, CITRIC ACID.

CHEESE & CHALKY SCALP

Anyone got really dry, itchy & flaky scalp at the moment? Or is it just me? I used to get the odd bout, esp around the same time as previous episodes of eczema around my temples (gone since I left a stressful episode of my life behind).  Anyhoo, I read a fab little snippet by Sarah Jossel (the Sunday Times Style’s #BeautyBoss) who had a chance encounter with world renowned scalp/Derma expert Dr Hugh Rushton when giving off about the same thing in a restaurant one day, and he told her that cheese could be the culprit! Yes, Cheese! All those cheese boards you had to finish off before you started Veganuary. All that Port which needed a wee nibble to eat with... The pan fried Halloumi to warm up your Winter salad. Yip, that’s it! 

According to the trichologist Anabel Kingsley: “If you are predisposed to getting dandruff, full-fat dairy products can make it flare up. Of all foods, cheese is perhaps the most common offender.”  It gets worse. “Champagne, white wine and very spicy or sugary foods can also be triggers,” she says. It’s not the same for everyone, though: “What might exacerbate flaking and itching in one person may not do so in another.” 

Oh Lord, I am doomed! 
But here’s the thing; like Sarah, I’m never going to stop eating cheese. And I think if I am entirely honest, I would rather have dandruff than give up cheese. Isn’t that a terrible admission? To say you’d rather have something that your body reacts negatively to, than not?! Is that step -1 on the addiction scale? 

When I flare up, I tend to stick to Head & Shoulders. They say it’s not great for those with coloured hair, but TBH I cant see that happening with mine. I’m keen to try out some of these remedies which Sarah found on Instagram too.  Pass the cheese please!

• Nizoral Dandruff Shampoo (£9) 
• Selsun Shampoo (£5). 
• Phyto Phytheol Intense (£14)
• Bioderma node DS+ Shampoo (£12.50; feelunique.com), 
• Oilatum Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo (£13) and Grow Gorgeous Scalp Detox (£28). 
• La Roche-Posay Kerium DS Intensive Shampoo (£13)
• Christophe Robin Cleansing Purifying Scrub with Sea Salt (£39) [Pop it on before shampooing to cool and detox the scalp] 
• Philip Kingsley Flaky/Itchy Scalp range

#FACE | GETTING RADIANT AT RADIANCE

LIGHT UP YOUR LIFE: RADIANCE FACIAL REVIEW

Regular readers of my beauty columns and blogs will know how much I preach good skincare from within as a first step – drinking plenty of water and eating a heavily plant-based diet come first and foremost for me; but we’re all human and we can all fall off the healthy wagon even with the best intentions. In fact, the month of November has pretty much been a constant water catch-up with a diet of the richest, heaviest food so far for me, so any help I can get is appreciated.

With this ‘help’ in mind I took a trip to Radiance Day Spa on the Upper Lisburn Road. The salon, which is owned by Beauty Power House Christine Mackin, recently re-launched with a fresh interior design and a brand new skincare range designed by Christine in conjunction with some of the best cosmetic chemists and biologists around.  The range, also called Radiance, is a targeted, results-driven capsule collection of products which uses clinically proven, highly-active ingredients to target different skin concerns and I was relishing my treatment a fortnight before I got it. 

My appointment began with a consultation where I was talked through the process and I voiced any concerns I had skin-wise. My facial goals are always the same – keep the hydration high and the lacklustre look low. But this time I also asked for a bit of extraction on the clogged pores on my nose. More on that later…

Using a machine, my skin was then scanned using black UV light  before my lovely therapist produced some (slightly scary) images of my face showing areas of dehydration, enlarged pores, hyperpigmentation and sun damage. To my delight, I am not as wrinkly as I had feared (yay) and my skin is generally in quite good condition (double yay). Using this analysis she then picked some products that were targeted specifically to my own skin’s needs.

I then snuggled under a blanket and once I was comfortable (I was so comfortable throughout the treatment I almost feel asleep…twice!) we began the treatment, using  the Radiance cleanse product - a soothing, natural daily cleanser which removes any traces of make up. This luxurious gloop of goodness removes toxins from the skin and prepares the skin for treatment. I then had a glycolic wash to gently exfoliate the skin and remove any dead skin cells, encouraging cell replenishment (aka new, fresh skin). Even though I am lucky to have been blessed with my mother’s good skin genes, the wear and tear of daily living is unavoidable so anything that promises anti-ageing has my attention!

After the blackheads and clogged pores on the end of my nose were cleared with a good old squeeze to extract dirt and sebaceous build-up (ouch – but totally worth it – I could not believe the difference) it was time for the massage – my favourite part of the facial!

Any parent with young children will agree that just having 10 mins to lie back and relax is amazing, and probably one of the greatest luxuries to (wo)man – albeit a very rare one! (For me, any chance to even sit down usually involves going through 200+ emails or sorting out paper work, so this was total bliss!) Some facialists also say that the movements of the hands in massaging motion are as important as the products used in the treatment, and I can honestly say I am a believer of this when you have the right facialist working on you.

After the massage, I had not one but two serums applied onto my skin to stimulate collagen, soften lines and improve elasticity while increasing hydration and boosting radiance. First up, Professional Strength Vitamin C Serum was rubbed onto my skin; this is packed with antioxidants and protects DNA. Next, a Hyaluronic Acid serum was massaged in. This can hold up to 1000 x its weight in water and works by attracting moisture from the atmosphere and binding it into the skin for a hydrating and anti-ageing effect. Genius, eh?

After the facial my face looked radiant and I upgraded to have a full body massage with the most fantastic masseuse Siubhan – 2 hours later I left the salon feeling very relaxed and happy and was able to meet clients with a glowing and fresh face that afternoon.

That night at home I was sitting on the sofa beside Mr Cathy and, after staring at me for a few moments (he’s not weird, we just like each other!), he finally asked “What happened to your face?”  And, before he finished,  I immediately began worrying that I had taken some sort of reaction to an active facial product (it has happened before and believe me when I say it ain’t pretty), so of course I had a mildly panicked look on my face and started touching my cheeks and forehead to feel for any heat or redness, but he finally finished his sentence smiling and said “you’re glowing”. So I quickly made a mental note to book another appointment at Radiance – and maybe even book in for a double session with yer man in tow.