FACE | THE FAUX GLOW

Hands up if you fancy an instant fix to visibly refresh dull, tired skin?

Every face can benefit from a little extra radiance and while I'm a huge advocate of nourishing skin at a deep level - with a nutritious diet, hydration and great skincare - there are times when a girl gotta fake it til she makes it.

We all get dull skin days (or weeks!), whether we've been burning the candle at both ends, have neglected our diet and skincare or are recovering from illness. The beauty industry is on the ball - and with an ongoing trend for glowing, radiant skin, many tools are at hand to add an instant faux glow.

I'm not talking traditional highlighter... think subtle sheen rather than visible-from-Venus cheekbones (GUILTY!). Products formulated to make skin look radiant and juicy - a skincare:make-up hybrid if you like, with complexion boosters and radiant primers for that ever aspirational lit-from-within gleaming skin.

Here are a few of my favourites for glossy, dewy skin, bottled... Tired, dull complexions, be gone!

GLOW ON

Bobbi Brown Extra Illuminating Balm, Bare Glow - complexion-enhancing balm with pearl particles for immediate radiance and hydration.

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Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter - a customisable complexion booster for super starlit skin in seconds.

Glossier Futuredew - a silky water in oil emulsion that feels instantly moisturising and cushiony and looks glossy.

Laura Mercier Pure Canvas Primer Illuminating - Infused with porcelain flower extract and micronized pearls for a healthy glow.

Becca Backlight Priming Filter - blurs imperfections and prolongs make-up wear with a lit from within glow

NYX High Glass Face Primer -  infused with light-reflecting pearls to create the illusion of translucent glass skin

HOW TO GLOW

If you're new to instant radiance enhancers, don't feel you have to follow the rules - choose one of the above and use it in a way that works for you to achieve a subtle or glass-like effect.

1. Go it Alone - if you're blessed with flawless skin, this may be all you need. Add a little touch of concealer where required and you glow girl!

2. Make Up Underwear - Mix with moisturiser or apply over it, depending on your skin's needs, for a subtle ‘lit from within’ glow.

3. Foundation Cocktail - add a drop or two to foundation for a slightly more sheer base with built in radiance.

4. The Grand Finale - pat a little onto the high points of your face after applying foundation... tops of cheekbones, brow bones and the bridge of your nose. Less is more.

And now… it’s cheesy but I have to end with: ‘You glow, gurl!’

 

FACE | IMAGE SIGNATURE PEEL FACELIFT

If you hear words like ‘face lift’ and ‘skin peel’ and that scene from Sex and the City springs to mind - yup, the one where Samantha’s face resembles a Sicilian blood orange – you need to read on. Facial peels are definitely not as scary as they sound; and with the right therapist to discuss and diagnose your individual needs and limitations, as well as using the right products, you can be on the road to glowing, healthy skin in no time.

Peels these days come in varying strengths according to the depth to which they penetrate, and can be personalised to your skin’s needs. On the whole, they work by deep cleaning and chemically exfoliating the outer layers of your skin, and revealing the younger skin beneath… But it’s important to remember at this point that a lot of what we see as ‘skin’, i.e. the outermost layer of skin (the stratum corneum), is actually covered in dead skin cells and general debris, so a good, superficial peel will remove this kind of gunk. Medium-depth peels work down to the epidermis, and fine lines and pigmentation exist on these layers, so you remove a few of those too with a basic or medium peel. Finally deep peels can stimulate down to the papillary dermis, creating miniature ‘trauma’ and wound effects, which encourage blood flow to the area and, as such, kick start a rejuvenation process which also stimulates collagen production.

In short, a good peel should or could leave your skin a little red, but within a few hours it should be soft and glowing; and within a few days it should be smooth, hydrated and gorgeous.  

The enzyme-based SIGNATURE FACELIFT PEEL treatment by IMAGE at Skin Medi Spa which I had is a superficial peel – and did not hurt in the slightest!  On the contrary, it was lovely! The IMAGE Signature Face Lift Peel is perfect for people who have acne and acne scarring, sun damage, (ME!) dry & dehydrated skin, (ME!) smoker’s skin, rosacea, pigmentation, or even just dull skin that needs a pick me up (ALSO ME!).

My goal was to rehydrate my lacklustre January skin and to remove surface debris as well as liven and lift for some springtime glow. I was not disappointed! I’ve listed my facial step-by-step below, although I did have a little nap during the masque process, but I think I have remembered everything 😊

  1. CONSULTATION: Every facial should start with at least a 5 minute chat on the current state of your skin as well as your goals for the treatment. This should cover your daily routine and your diet, plus environmental factors like whether (and how much) you exercise, smoke and drink, plus whether you’re on medication or have any medical conditions which might preclude you from the treatment or elements of it. If you’re preggo, for example, you shouldn’t use Retinol.

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2. CLEANSE: The facial started with a double cleanse, first to remove make-up, then the second cleanse to treat the skin and remove any oil, pollution and dead skin cells from the day. Judith used the IMAGE Ageless Total Facial Cleanser and then the I-Peel Degreasing Prep Solution.  Judith then looked at my skin under the magnifying lamp to take a closer look at my skin needs. Next up, my skin was prepped for the peel part of the facial.

3.SIGNATURE FACELIFT PEEL STEP 1 Here, the first part of the peel process was applied.  This is a blend of enzymes, Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid. The enzymes get rid of dead skin cells, and this, plus the Hyaluronic Acid, mean the skin will absorb the products better. This solution is massaged into the skin, and can feel  a little tingly or warm. For me it was fine except around my nostrils, weirdly, but it was January and I suppose they’re going to be a little sensitive from sniffing and wiping.

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4. AGELESS TOTAL RESURFACING MASQUE: Next up, Judith layered my skin with the resurfacing mask which contains glycolic acid and menthol. This is where I started to feel the tingle happen.

5. SIGNATURE FACELIFT SOLUTION: The last layer of the peel is then applied and removed after about a minute.

6. VITAL C HYDRATING ENZYME MASQUE: Judith then applied the Image Vital C Hydrating Enzyme Masque. The Vital C range smells like oranges, and many of you know that I rave about the Vital C Vitamin C facial oil which I love putting on my face in the mornings and leaving to sit for an hour or so until I’m ready for SPF and make up.  I have tried this masque at home and it is a great way to hydrate and exfoliate the skin. Whilst that was left on Judith massaged my neck and décolletage which was lovely and relaxing. I think some therapists offer hand and arm massages here, so this may differ depending on where you go.

7. HYALURONIC ACID FACIAL ENHANCER – At this point Judith used the Vital C Hydrating Anti-Ageing Serum (one of IMAGE’s most popular products) and she added in one dropper  of 25% hyaluronic acid facial enhancer for a super boost. The Vital C serum has Botox-like peptides to relax muscles from facial expression, Here she also added in some IMAGE MAX Stem Cell Cream, which supports collagen regeneration, smooths wrinkles and hydrates skin. Boom!

8. VITAL C HYDRATING EYE RECOVERY GEL – this part needs no explaining. Eyes = rejuvenated!  

9. PREVENTION: Here Judith applied the PREVENTION+ Daily Hydrating Moisturiser with SPF. Never, ever forget SPF, evenhere in the UK and Ireland. UV rays penetrate our skin even on dull weather days!

10. LIPS: This product was a revelation and an immediate addition to my wish list – the IMAGE Ormedic Balancing Lip Complex. Wow! It just felt soft, rich and had no funny, funky tastes that come with other lip products (usually the ones with petroleum-based ingredients, yuk!). Plus it looked super glossy too. Brownie Points: This one is all natural of course, and vegan approved.

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11. I-CONCEAL Personally, I didn’t have this step as I just wanted the products to work away and wasn’t going anywhere that required make up or cover up, but this optional step is great for a complimentary cover up to the facial products.

12. POST PEEL KIT: Clients are given an IMAGE post peel kit to take home as well as a prescription of recommended products

**As an extra, I also tried out an LED light for 10 min while the masque was on. Doctors also use this kind of light to heal scarred or burnt/damaged skin ten times quicker than it normally can. Although not officially part if the IMAGE Signature Peel, I really think the light boosted the product and treatment effects, much to the benefit of my skin. Some clients find the proximity of the light to be quite claustrophobic, but once you breathe, relax and get used to it, it feels quite nice. In my opinion, it’s the facial equivalent of a weighted blanket!

The result? My skin was glowing, like, REALLY glowing.  It looked plumped, hydrated and soft to touch. The pics speak for themselves I think, no?

I have also been following up since the facial with some of the Image products that I hadn’t used before and I am so impressed by them that they will definitely be part of my routine now, especially the Lip Complex and the MAX Stem Cell Cream.

If you want to see more, I have an IMAGE highlight on my Instagram profile at @cathymartin10, where you can see what products I love, however please bear in mind that while I have very specific needs, your goals or requirements may not be the same, so always ask the advice of a skincare professional before spending lots of money on products or a treatment plan. And remember to start at home with a healthy diet and lots of water *see my blog on FACE FOOD here. Please also note that peel is not just a one off treatment, so please make sure you find out about what is next in your journey to maintain results.

The Image Signature Lift Facial lasts 60 minutes, costs £75.00 or you can get a course for £375.00 (buy 5 and you get the 6th free) and is available at Skin Medi Spa.  For more info on IMAGE skincare visit my page at

https://www.imageskincare.ie/shop-online.html?affiliate_code=c1NxmBrqdE&referring_service=link 



 You can also use my discount code CATHY10 here, for 10% off!

DISCLAIMER: I’m an ambassador for IMAGE Skincare now, but regular readers and social media followers will know that I have been using a number of IMAGE products for quite a few years now. Please note, as usual, all my reviews are 100% honest and any recommendations are 100% genuine (if I don’t like a product, you simply wont find it on this blog!). Also, for transparency, whilst I am a brand ambassador for IMAGE, I don’t make commission on sales.


FACE | L’OCCITANE NEW PRODUCT LAUNCH

L’Occitane started 2020 by launching three new product collections and we have been busy trying them here at The F Words.

First up is the fantastic multi-balm ‘The Petit Remedy’. It comes as no surprise that in today’s modern world where often we find there just aren’t enough hours in the day to get everything done, many people are turning to multi-benefit products when it comes to taking care of themselves. This little miracle balm is just that. It’s the perfect multi-purpose product. In fact it has quickly become a go-to product to quickly hydrate anything from cuticles to hair, lips and even hands!

It contains some of L’Occitane’s favourite ingredients from Provence; Immortelle, Almond, Shea Buter and Lavender. The balm was actually inspired by the home-made balms concocted deep in the countryside in Provence, using plants known to have healing properties and used to soften and soothe workers’ hands after spending long days in the fields.

It is also made with 100% naturally derived ingredients, is free of mineral oils and petroleum as well as artificial colours & fragrances - so no need to worry about any nasties lurking in the ingredients list, something I am always cautious of.

The balm transforms from a semi-solid balm into a silky oil on contact with the skin’s temperature and is absorbed super quickly.  Oh and I have to mention the scent – think relaxation & comfort rolled together and boxed up in a pretty little tin! In other words, it smells divine! It comes in a 100g option or a smaller 15g tin which is simply a handbag or travel must-have!

Next up are the shea liquid soaps which now come in new recycled plastic packages with an eco-refill counterpart. They also contain zero palm oil which automatically gives it a big thumbs up from us.

Fun fact: L’Occitane has been making solid & liquid soaps since 1980 when the founder Olivier Baussan purchased a soap making factory. He then started working alongside a retired master soap-maker to learn the traditional soap-making methods and so L’Occitane soaps were created (and we remain thankful to this day!).
The soaps are kind to the skin and don’t dry them out which I know is a bit of a pet hate with many dry-skin sufferers when using liquid soap.

Finally, the iconic shea butter products have had an illustrated makeover by French designers OMY and we are totally down for it.
OMY was founded in 2012 by two Parisian graphic designers, Elvire Laurent & Marie-Cerise Lichtle, who create an array of colouring products that you can colour in and customise (and so began the idea of adult version of colouring books etc). They have designed limited-edition packaging for lots of L’Occitane products which are partially coloured and just waiting to be finished. So if you fancy taking some time out for a little bit of mindfulness, then voilà!, you have the perfect canvas to colour

SUSTAINABILITY NOTE: Do you know that 80% of UK landfill waste can be recycled? Or, that it takes 500 (yup 500) years for plastic to fully decompose? L’Occitane is committed to limiting its impact on the environment and have actually launched a new initiative with TerraCycle to enable the recycling of beauty products from any brand (especially difficult-to-recycle packaging). So if you have any empties, simply take them along to your local L’Occitane store which will recycle them for you. It is so good to see lots of well-known brands become more eco-friendly and try to make a difference.

 

FOOD | FIVE FOODS TO FEED YOUR FACE (AND GIVE GOOD GLOW)

Who doesn’t want naturally glowy skin, with no highlight in sight?! If you’re a regular reader of the blog you will know that although I love my beauty products, I am a big advocate of feeding the body from within to gain visible and long-lasting results.

As a busy mum, I don’t have half an hour to spare each morning on a six step skin care routine, so I love products which are efficient and straight to the point as well as being as natural as possible. If you’re time-poor like me, one way that you can manage your skin all day long is through your diet.

Before I list my fave face foods, I have some pre-cursors though.

1.       ALLERGIES: I’ve mentioned before about going to get allergies and intolerances tested (I got mine done at Framar Health in Belfast), and intolerance testing is a great place to start when it comes to eating for health. You could be suffering from acne or rosacea and spend time and money trying to treat it topically when actually the skin’s acne, eczema or other issue is a manifestation of an allergy. For example, if you get acne, your dairy intake may be to blame – one study shows that milk releases IGF-I, a hormone similar to insulin, which interact with our own hormones confusing our body’s endocrine system causing breakouts.

2.       JUNK IN YOUR TRUNK – AND ELSEWHERE: Cutting out (or minimising) processed foods is the next important step in clearing up skin (and gut) health, as there are so many toxic nasties in processed foods which wreak havoc with our bodies when built up over years – decades, even – of bad eating.

3.       WATER, BABY!: And the third pre-courser to food for your face is hydration, and you all know how much I preach about water intake for skin health. (See my HYDRATION blog here:)

But back to the task in hand. Your skin health is often a mirror reflection of what you eat, and while avoiding processed and junk foods, trans fats and sugars as well as drinking plenty of pure water can have a beneficial effect on your skin, there are certain foods which you can add to your diet to see a real effect on your skin. Here are my best beauty foods.

FACE FOOD 1 – FATTY ACIDS

Aside from improved eye health and reduced inflammation, good fats in your diet are essential for healthy skin, Omega-3 in particular.  Omega-3 fatty acids maintain healthy skin cell membranes. An insufficiency of these can actually reduce the skin’s ability to absorb and retain water, which will lead to dry and dehydrated skin, so a good intake of Omega-3 fatty acids may help increase hydration by improving the skin’s natural barrier.

Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in a variety of fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, herring, mackerel, anchovies, kipper and trout. Just two portions of oily fish per week (one portion = 140g when cooked) would provide a sufficient amount of Omega-3 fatty acids.

If you are vegan, you can still get your intake of Omgea-3 in walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseed and hemp seed oil - or through supplementation with algal oil, made from algae which is what omega 3 rich fish feed on.

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FACE FOOD 2 – EAT YOUR GREENS

Leafy green vegetables are vital in a balanced diet - and their skin benefits are an added bonus. They contain a variety of essential nutrients, antioxidants and age-fighting phytochemicals as well as plenty of fibre to help gut health and peristalsis.

The Vitamin E found in greens protects your skin cells from free radical damage, such as UV damage and air pollution. Leafy green vegetables also contain folate, a vital nutrient for DNA repair, which helps produce and maintain new cells.

Vitamin C is a co-factor for collagen production in your skin and connective tissues. Found in abundance in leafy greens, Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is one of the most important antioxidant nutrients. It is not naturally synthesized inside the human body and so an adequate dietary intake of Vitamin C is essential. *NB* We know you can get Vitamin C in oranges and bell peppers too, but kale & spinach are brilliant sources, with the added benefit of iron and chlorophyll. Read on!

Green vegetables are also loaded with disease-fighting phytochemicals, like chlorophyll which provides protection against free radicals that can cause your skin to age. The darker the green, the more chlorophyll the vegetable will contain.

Greens are also rich in lutein, a powerful antioxidant which boosts hydration levels, helps to improve elasticity and protects against sun damage, so try to make it a rule to include at least two portions (160g) of greens each day. Go for watercress, rocket, spinach, romaine lettuce, mixed leaves, baby leaf salad, microgreens and kale. It is easy to get half of that through a daily green salad and another half through a cooked vegetable side for dinner - or you could always whip up a green smoothie with spinach or kale plus avocado, pistachios (see below) and add kiwis apples or green grapes if you’d like a bit of fruit sweetness in there.

FACE FOOD 3 – ORANGE IS THE NEW EVERYTHING!

Orange coloured fruit and vegetables contain high amounts of beta-carotene which is essential to give your skin healthy colour. A study by the University of Nottingham found that eating a healthy diet rich in fruit and vegetables gives you a more healthy golden glow than the sun. These include carrots, butternut squash, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, papaya, orange peppers, courgettes/marrow, mango and orange.

The high Vitamin A content in these fruit and vegetables helps repair skin tissue and protects against the sun’s harsh rays . As vitamin A is an antioxidant, it also protects from free radicals to help prevent the signs of ageing like wrinkles, pigmentation and an uneven skin tone.
It is best to eat foods such as carrots, squash and sweet potatoes cooked (but NOT overcooked!) as opposed to raw because Vitamin A becomes more bioavailable in cooked food. It’s also helpful to consume these vegetables with oil as this can improve the absorption of Vitamin A.

FACE FOOD 4 PISTACHIOS BABY!

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Pistachios are known as the queen of nuts for a reason.  They are a fantastic source of healthy fats, fibre, protein, antioxidants, and various nutrients, including Vitamin B6 and Thiamine. They’re also rich in the amino acid L-Arginine, which is a precursor of nitric oxide, a molecule that dilates our blood vessels and increases circulation of blood.

Good blood flow = more oxygen and essential nutrients getting to our skin cells. It also means waste products are taken away from skin cells more efficiently too. Nitric Oxide also supports tissue repair, including collagen formation.

Pop a tablespoon of pistachios into your morning smoothie, have 30g as a snack or make a delicious pistachio-based pesto sauce for pasta, fish or some delicious roasted vegetables.

FACE FOOD 5 – ASTAXANTHIN
Astaxanthin is one of the most powerful antioxidants which has been shown in clinical studies to increase skin moisture, elasticity, lighten dark spots, and promote skin smoothness to decrease fine lines.

This amazing, but little talked about, antioxidant has incredible UV-blocking properties, which helps to assist the skin in protecting itself against sun-related damage.  

Great natural sources of astaxanthin are algae, wild salmon, trout, krill, lobster, shrimp and crayfish, BUT you can also take it as a supplement because it’s high doses that have been shown to benefit skin. These have been researched and proven safe in doses of up to 40 milligrams daily for 12 weeks. If you’re getting it from whole food sources, try incorporating a few servings of astaxanthin-rich foods into your diet per week.

This article was inspired by a fab piece on Healthista.com, one of my go-to websites for all things health. You can catch the Healthista article yourself here:

 https://www.healthista.com/beauty-diet-how-to-eat-for-glowing-skin

 











 

FACE | How Healthy is Your Hair?

While many of us now spend considerable time researching the products we apply on our skin, most are a little more care free when it comes to looking after our barnets. Gloriously healthy hair rarely happens au natural, but with the correct products and tools, we can all inject a lil extra swish and gloss into the tiredest of locks.

While I do love a professional blow dry and adore salon products, there are plenty of absolute gems available for home hair care. A weekly mask, nourishing oil and a shampoo /conditioner to meet your specific hair needs all go a long way. Gone are the days when we celebrated bringing one bottle instead of two into the shower!

Read on to discover my top tips for stressed out tresses.

PRODUCTS

Choosing the best shampoo and conditioner for your hair is the first place to start and in my experience, well worth the time and effort. So many formulas can strip hair of its natural oils and even have a detrimental effect on our skin as we rinse them off, so I don't recommend cutting corners. A good starting point is choosing a sulphate-free product, free of skin-drying harsh detergents, such as Pureology or Jason.

TOOLS

Wet hair = weak hair, so choose a brush or comb that won't cause breakage. The Wet Brush is genius as it glides through wet hair smoothly, protecting the hair when at its most vulnerable. Also excellent on dry hair and comes in smaller sizes for little ones' hands - mums and dads, take note!

Believe it or not, even the towel you use can make a difference.  The Aquis Hair Turban is proven to cut drying time by up to 50%, reduces styling time and keeps hair securely tucked away while you potter about getting ready.

MASKS

Whether you want to restore the condition of your locks, revive colour or save your scalp, a weekly mask treatment will make a tangible difference.  I prefer to apply these at least half an hour in advance of washing to let them really soak in and do their thaaanng.

Originally created for Audrey Hepburn, Philip Kingsley Elasticizer locks in moisture to leave hair intensely nourished and shiny and really is hard to beat (plus it smells lush!).  Davines Oi Hair Butter is also gorgeous and intensely replenishing on ultra dry, weak hair. NB only apply these on mid lengths to ends to avoid greasy, overladen roots.

OILS

If your locks look dull or feel particularly parched, hair oil is your new BFF and a little goes a long way. Bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil is nourishing enough to make a difference without weighing hair down. Massage a couple of drops into lengths for instant hydration and shine. The Moroccanoil range is also fabulous... if you're hesitant about using an oil, start with Glimmer Shine infused with argan oil, vitamins and antioxidants. This light mist adds luminous shine and helps protect hair from the sun and chlorine. 

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COLOUR

When colouring hair at home, choose formulas that will enrich your hair's condition and cause the least amount of damage. Maria Nila Colour Refresh is a gentle hair mask with non-permanent colour pigments to intensify or change up your colour while adding a glossy shine. Designed by the leading colour expert himself, Josh Wood Colour products are PPD, ammonia and cruelty free and range from colour renewing shampoos to root concealers and permanent colour.

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FACE | GET READY TO GLOW WITH YON-KA PARIS

As the seemingly never-ending January finally gives way to February and the daylight hours begin to get (slightly) longer, it feels like spring is almost on its way.
That said, regular readers will know that I wear thermals from October until April, so there are two more months before I feel properly spring-y, and there is no denying that my post-winter skin is definitely in need of some TLC and Vitamin D! But before adding spring sunshine (and its inherent Vitamin D) as well as all those nourishing skin products and treatments, it is important to take the layers of dead skin cells off with some gentle exfoliation.

In the old days, exfoliating your skin was about as delicate a process as resurfacing the kitchen floors (and often left you red-faced and sore) but thankfully Yon-Ka Paris has a wide range of  products which gently remove any debris from your skin, revealing a spotless, flawless complexion underneath – with not a red face in sight!

One of my fave Yon-Ka duos are the Alpha-Fluid (£63) & Alpha Peel (£73). The renewing peel works overnight, gently removing dead skin cells so you wake up with radiant skin while the hydrating fluid works during the day to renew and revitalise, creating healthier skin.

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Yon-Ka Paris Gommage £37 is an award-winning, non-abrasive polish which you rub gently onto the skin, removing dead skin cells while hydrating and balancing the skin. Borneol and white nettle work together to soothe and purify skin, resulting in a gorgeous glow – no highlighter needed!

If your skin is sensitive, this product is perfect because it is a rub as opposed to a scrub so it calms skin. It is also suitable on the eye area and the lack of oil means it is suitable for all skin types.

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Another fab product is the Yon-Ka Paris Guarana Scrub (£37). This is an exfoliating cream which cleanses and purifies the skin. It is made up of two complimentary organic microbeads (guarana seeds and organic brown rice) which are softened by a cocktail of plant extracts – all with soothing virtues which work together to leave skin feeling super smooth and silky.

The Yon-Ka Paris Solution Clarté (£56.50) is a gentle peeling treatment which eliminates dead skin cells, reduces skin discolouration and improves skin quality. When you use it regularly your complexion will become more even, radiant and bright.

With all these to choose from, you can’t not have glowing skin ready for spring (when it eventually comes!).

FACE | THE FUTURE OF SKINCARE?

I’ve been reviewing beauty products for over 10 years now (12, in fact), and I would like to think I’m pretty informed at this point. I do love a lotion and a potion (as you can see from this section of the blog!) and I consider it a privilege to be asked for my advice on skincare (despite being stubborn - and stubbornly careful - about using eye make up remover products [because I hate dragging cloths and cotton around my eye skin and I dislike anything but purely natural products around my eyes and lashes]). So often though, when asking for advice, people say they have, for example, dry skin and ask me what moisturiser they should use… and I am astounded to then ask about their water consumption only to find that they barely drink water at all. Or I ask about diet when someone says they have a skin irritation that they’ve been assuming is the fault of a topical product they’ve applied without looking at their own diet or what’s going into their skin from within.

For so long we believed that the only way to care for our skin was by applying topical creams. Gradually, and thankfully, it's now well recognised that what we eat, how we treat our body and its delicate hormonal balance deeply affects our skin quality. Skin is our body’s biggest organ after all. Addressing specific skin concerns - from rosacea and acne to eczema and psoriasis – should not be solely in the hands of the beauty industry; for me, a dermatologist-dietitian/or facialist-nutritionist led combo is the ultimate skin goal!

I've always been a big believer in acquiring the maximum nutrition possible from eating the right food and drinking enough water. Getting the gut:skin relationship right is crucial and for me, this is way more important than any topical lotion or potion. Give me a portion of spinach and kale over an iron supplement any day, but if there's something that will bolster my diet and bring additional health benefits, I'm all for it. Bolstering our diet with vitamins and food supplements is now the norm - and a multi-million pound industry. Initially developed to make it easier for us to get our daily dose of essential vitamins and minerals, most of us have progressed from a multivitamin - at a push - to a series of supplements to address multiple health and wellbeing requirements.

But self diagnosing can be a risky guessing game, so if you're new to supplements, I highly recommend seeking professional advice. Our bodies can't tolerate too much of certain vitamins and minerals and the best options and dosage will vary enormously according to individual health and lifestyle.

There are so many multivitamin and mineral packages available now – some specific to female needs and they are a really quick and easy way to get the right vitamins and minerals into our bodies. Personally, I think it’s a great starting point to seek professional advice and I popped in to Framar Health in Belfast for an all-over assessment. I had the ASYRA PRO assessment with a nutritionist which was fascinating. I left with the knowledge of what vitamins and minerals I was lacking in and then spent a bit of a fortune to be fair on supplements and goodies (Epsom salts, vegan chocolate etc as well as magnesium, Zinc, Selenium etc).  

In the meantime, I thought I'd share some options of multi-vitamin and mineral supplements that I’ve trialled in the past, or I’d like to in the future. The first one is def not a realistic option for any of us mere mortals, but I thought I’d include it as it may be more accessible in the future!

KLOTHO

One supplement that I’ll never be able to afford is a recent – and semi-secret – version of Klotho called Immortalis. Have a google of that one, and you’ll likely only find one (comprehensive) article about it on VOGUE.co.uk, because it’s still so rare, barely anyone knows about it. It is estimated that the Swiss clinic where it’s made can only produce enough for 800 people to take a year’s supply. And that pretty much rules out anyone who’s not Hollywood royalty, the richest Californian and Chinese billionaires as well as a few Middle Eastern or Russian oil and gas tycoons.  I’m now convinced JLo is on it. She ages in reverse! The trading name of this secret supplement is Immortalis, and it was created by a retired professor of molecular biology, Marco Ruggerio. The 12 month supply comes in with a hefty price tag of £20,000.00. Yup.   

LUMITY

One supplement I do take is Lumity. And it is, for me, the next best thing. It is a natural, anti-ageing supplement that works with your body to restore youthful vitality at cellular level. Its scientifically formulated Morning & Night softgel capsules deliver maximum results for health and beauty with minimum effort.

A powerhouse blend of high-quality omegas, minerals, vitamins and essential nutrients, this advanced formula grants infinite benefits from more youthful-looking skin to boosted energy and vitality. Selected by the Times and the Telegraph as amongst the top beauty and health supplements, Lumity is available locally via my lovely friend, Gemma Garret at Buella Life.  

MIND BODY GREEN

Mind Body Green supplements target multiple health needs, including NR+ to promote cellular energy production and glowing, smoother skin thanks to nicotinamide riboside (NR), a new form of Vitamin B3. It also includes healthy skin actives to help combat dryness and improve elasticity.

REVIVE ACTIVE

Revive Active's food supplements are formulated and produced in Ireland using the highest natural quality ingredients. Free of binders, additives and fillers, they contain a multitude of vitamins and ingredients that are all vegan-friendly. These supplements can help sustain natural energy, reduce the effects of fatigue, support heart health and reinforce the immune system for healthier skin, nails and hair.

The brand's commitment to producing excellent products to address a variety of health benefits is recognised internationally with multiple business and enterprise awards.

IMEDEEN

IMEDEEN® Skincare supplements are scientifically proven to help reduce visible signs of skin ageing from within. I'm talking 10 clinical trials, plus a number of in vitro studies and consumer evaluations, across the range of formulations.

As with many of these 'beauty' supplements, IMEDEEN® benefits can be seen all over the body, not just on your face.  From hair and nail capsules to the liquid Advanced Beauty Shot with 2500mg of collagen and Vitamin C, make sure you select the right option for you.

COLLAGEN LIFT

Collagen Lift is a daily drinkable collagen supplement, clinically proven to reduce wrinkles by up to 50% and increase skin elasticity. Made in France, this highly-effective formula is ideal for anyone who wishes to fight the signs of aging in a non-invasive way and visible results can be seen in as little as 3 to 6 weeks.

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IV VITAMIN THERAPY

Vitamin IV drips can boost the immune system, skin health and fight lethargy with a direct infusion of vitamins and minerals, like high doses of vitamin B, C or magnesium. Receiving vitamins through an IV allegedly allows the nutrients to bypass the digestive system for a quicker shot of vitality. 

A number of Belfast clinics now offer vitamin infusions but I get mine at Glow Aesthetics at the Culloden Hotel, Cultra and I've had a similar treatment at the Exilir Clinic in London and felt amazing afterwards!

FACE | The Make-up Brushes you actually need

Using the correct tools for any job has a huge impact on the results and it's no different when it comes to make-up. Achieving a flawless look is so much easier with a few choice brushes to ensure a seamless finish - and the right brush, used properly, should do half of the work for you. Great brushes can totally transform how a product performs on your skin and ensure that your make-up goes on like a dream. 

I'm lucky enough to get my make-up done by professional artists quite regularly - and have picked up lots of tips and tricks along the way. These are the essential brushes that I recommend for help you look effortlessly immaculate.  Well, almost effortlessly...

Bobbi Brown full coverage brush £33

Bobbi Brown full coverage brush £33

Foundation - a dense brush with curved edges helps avoid product waste and fits beautifully into the contours of your face. Bobbi Brown Full Coverage Face is fantastic, though Real Techniques and Zoeva both do great buffing brushes. NB these are suited to liquid and some cream foundations; a kabuki brush is more effective with powder foundation.

Kevyn Aucoin Duet concealer brush £26

Kevyn Aucoin Duet concealer brush £26

Concealer - I love a dual ended concealer brush as the smaller, smooth end enables precise placement in the corners of eyes and around the nose while the fluffy end is perfect for blending concealer in seamlessly. If I could only choose one I'd opt for fluffy and use a finger for placement.

Eco Tools Full Powder Brush £8.99.

Eco Tools Full Powder Brush £8.99.

Powder - a powder brush with long fluffy bristles will distribute a light, even layer of product even across your face without dispensing too much product. If you only like to powder the T zone (nose, chin and forehead), a smaller brush will give more precise coverage.

Charlotte Tilbury Bronzer+Blusher-Brush £30

Charlotte Tilbury Bronzer+Blusher-Brush £30

Bronzer / Blush - Bronzer is best applied with a large, loose bristled brush to create a smooth, even finish. Use the tip of this Charlotte Tilbury combined brush to add a small amount of blush on the apples of cheeks once bronzer is fully blended. Overdone it? Soften edges with the remnants of product on your foundation brush and/or dust over with a light layer of powder.

Zoeva Luxe Smoky Shader Brush £9.50

Zoeva Luxe Smoky Shader Brush £9.50

Flat eye shadow - best for packing on powder eye shadow or pigment, with minimal fallout or waste. Use a separate brush for blending.

MAC 217 £21 - fluffy eye shadow brush

MAC 217 £21 - fluffy eye shadow brush

Fluffy eye shadow - use the very tips of bristles in a loosely packed brush like MAC 217 to blend out shadow for the most seamless smoky eye.

Zoeva Pencil Brush £9.50.

Zoeva Pencil Brush £9.50.

Detail - a pencil brush, with short tapered bristles like the point of a pencil, is superb for smudging eye liner or shadow along the lash line for a soft, flattering finish.

While these are what I'd term essentials, of course you can go on ad infinitum if you wish... there is a brush available for literally every single element of make-up application. If I was to add a few extras to make this into a neat Top Ten, they would be an eyebrow brush, lip brush and a super fluffy blending brush for both finishing off the eyes and applying highlighter to cheekbones.  

Another great option is of course ready made brush sets, available for every budget from ELF to Hakuhodo. Excellent affordable options - both individual and in sets - include Real Techniques and Zoeva, often seen in the hands of leading MUAs like Lisa Eldridge. Speaking of which, a good rule of thumb is to stick to brushes by make-up artist brands, like Charlotte Tilbury, Bobbi Brown, Kevyn Aucoin or our very own Paddy McGurgan.

The bonus of not having too many make-up brushes is that they take less time to clean... you do clean your brushes, right? I think that's a whole other blog post in itself!

FACE | Taking Cover

While I generally veer towards sheer foundation, I do like to dial up the coverage in Winter, particularly during party season! If you're a fan of a perfected everyday base or just fancy a flawless finish for special occasions, this is my edit of full cover foundations worth trialling.  

As the name suggests, full cover foundation should provide complete cover, no extra concealing required, though I do like to add a little light reflection under my eyes.  Everyone's skin is different, so do what works for you - and go back in with concealer on any redness or imperfections if needed. Thankfully, the newest foundation releases are much more forgiving than the tide line inducing pan sticks of the previous generation. Lightweight, hydrating formulas paired with great pigments now have the capacity to deliver an airbrushed base with a radiant finish, evening out Winter complexions.

APPLICATION TIPS

  • Full cover foundation requires excellent skin prep, with well cleansed and hydrated skin. Fine layers of skincare create the ideal base, rather that one generous layer of moisturiser.

  • A primer isn't always necessary, but the right one can soften the look of pores and fine lines, reduce the amount of foundation required and add longevity to the finished look.

  • When it comes to applying the actual product, less is more. Start in the centre of the face where most of us need coverage most, then sheer out towards the size. You can always go back in and add another thin layer if required - it's easier to add than take away and cake face is never a good look!

  • Application is everything. A flat paint brush style foundation brush will add maximum coverage; a dampened beauty blender will give a lighter finish and a buffing brush sits somewhere in between.

If you're in the market for a full cover foundation, here are some worth checking out. Always get colour matched in store and request a sample if possible. It's important to see how a foundation looks in different lighting and wears on your skin, before forking out what's often a considerable amount of cash.

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless £34

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless £34

Dior Skin Forever Undercover £36

Dior Skin Forever Undercover £36

Fenty Beauty Pro Filtr Hydrating Longwear £27

Fenty Beauty Pro Filtr Hydrating Longwear £27

Giorgio Armani Power Fabric £42

Giorgio Armani Power Fabric £42

Hourglass Seamless Finish £42.

Hourglass Seamless Finish £42.

MAC StudioFix Soft Matte Foundation Stick £27

MAC StudioFix Soft Matte Foundation Stick £27

NARS radiant longwear foundation £35

NARS radiant longwear foundation £35

Shiseido-Synchro-Skin-Self-Refreshing-Foundation £39

Shiseido-Synchro-Skin-Self-Refreshing-Foundation £39

The Ordinary Coverage Foundation £5.90

The Ordinary Coverage Foundation £5.90

Urban Decay All Nighter £29.50

Urban Decay All Nighter £29.50

YSL All Hours £35

YSL All Hours £35

FACE | Gift Ideas for Perfume Lovers

I was reading an article in Vogue this week, where Frédéric Malle, fragrance connoisseur and architect behind Editions de Parfums, shared excellent tips on choosing the right perfume as a gift. This particular gem jumped out at me and I think it's so true, not only when it comes to fragrance, but shopping in general!

“A lot of people give Chanel No. 5 for the same reason they might buy an Apple computer - because they think they can’t go wrong,” says Malle. “But perfume is more personal than that. It’s not about choosing a ‘good’ fragrance. It’s about choosing the one that’s a good match with the person who will be wearing it.”

I've always been a fan of wearing fragrance that stands out from the crowd and think a lot of us are starting to lean this way. We all want to be unique (oxymoron?!) and none of us want to smell like every other person in the room. If you're choosing a perfume for someone special in your life this Christmas, take the time to really think about what kind of scent truly suits their personality and individual style.

My edit features ten really special recent releases that are that little bit different, smell sensational and are absolutely not run of the mill. I defy you to resist popping one in the basket for yourself!

 Van Cleef and Arpels Santal Blanc - with notes of fig milk and a delicate powdery musk, this leaves a trail of velvety, luxurious sandalwood.

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Acqua di Parma’s Signature Oud - simultaneously warm, familiar and mysterious with notes of bergamot and orange on Russian coriander and musk, combining to create a soft, woody fragrance.

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Tocca Gia - an oriental floral with pink pepper, tangerine and Turkish rose on a base of amber, sandalwood and vanilla. Tocca fragrances are a recent discovery and really special.

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Gucci Memoire d'une Odeur - floral and herby with woody undertones, this has top notes of chamomile and almond mixed with fresh florals. The gorgeous green glass bottle is an absolute gift in itself.

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Gabrielle Chanel Essence - deep and voluptuous with jasmine, ylang-ylang, orange blossom and Grasse tuberose. Captivating.

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Jo Malone London Poppy & Barley - this juicy, gentle floral encapsulates the scents of barley, blackcurrants and fresh poppies, with powdery white musk. 

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Jimmy Choo Urban Hero - woody and aromatic with vibrant lemon caviar, rosewood and warm black pepper, this includes one of my favourite notes, sophisticated vetiver.

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 I always like to think outside the box for those who prefer a slightly softer take on fragrance, or like to save more heady scents for evening. Fragrant body cream, scented hair mist or even a gorgeous hand cream can be just enough for a subtle is she or isn't she effect. Here are a few great alternatives to more full on fragrances...

 Tom Ford Ombre Leather Body Spray - warm, woody and sophisticated with cardamom, jasmine sambac and black leather on a base of amber, moss and patchouli. Also available as eau de parfum if you fancy a more intense hit!

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Jo Loves Rose Petal Shimmer Paintbrush - ideal for on the go touch ups, this brush-on gel has top notes of rose de Mai and rose absolute, combined with the musky aroma of ambrette - well-balanced and highly wearable.

Annick Goutal Hand Cream - inspired by a walk in an English garden, this hand cream feels rich and velvety and smells exquisite.

Side note: lots of these work well for both men and women - particularly the Acqua di Parma, Tom Ford and Jimmy Choo - BUT every signature is unisex in my book, so make up your own rules and wear whatever makes you feel good!

FACE | New in Beauty

I've been prowling the beauty aisles, trialling a tonne of gorgeous new products and lined up the very best of them to share with you. Welcome to my edit of the Top 10 beauty launches I'm obsessing over - from skincare to get you glowing to a just-bitten lip stain and show stopping glitter eyes.  

SKIN

Elemental Herbology Water Soothe Facial Oil

The perfect antidote to dull Winter skin, Elemental Herbology Water Soothe Facial Oil helps leave skin feeling soft and soothed, while lavender and chamomile oils entice me to the land of nod in minutes.

 Glossier Futuredew

Glossier's new oil-serum hybrid leaves skin with that ever elusive lit from within glow. Top tip: try adding a little extra over makeup as a subtle cheekbone highlight.

MAKE-UP

Chanel Limited Edition Illuminating Powder

For a truly ethereal winter glow, this limited edition Chanel compact is oh so glam it's like a work of art in itself - if you can bring yourself to actually use it!

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Becca Pearl Glow Shimmering Eye Palette
From rich browns to shimmering pastels, Becca's new eyeshadow palette includes every shade you'll ever need for day to evening eye looks, with just the right amount of shimmer.

 Pixi Glitter-y Eye Quad

Looking for a little more va-va voom? This twinkling quad of four pressed glitter-y shades is the latest addition to Pixi’s purse-friendly make up range. The well pigmented glitter quads come in three colour ways: RoseBronze, GoldLava and BluePearl.

 Marc Jacobs Beauty Highliner Liquid-Gel Eyeliner

Marc Jacobs Beauty has reinvented its renowned Highliner Gel Crayon as a liquid liner. Extremely pigmented and equally long lasting, Highliner Liquid-Gel Eyeliner comes in four permanent shades and three limited-edition ones in striking shades.

 Victoria Beckham Beauty Bitten Lip Tint

Victoria Beckham is gradually adding to her sophisticated new beauty collection with more delectable treats, a clever way to reel us in! Your Perfect Pout Lip includes six neutral lip pencils and Bitten Lip Tint in one universal sheer, rosy tone to layer over the pencils or wear alone. Genius.

 FRAGRANCE

 Jo Malone Rose & Magnolia

Rose and Magnolia is the latest scent in the Jo Malone London family, a fresh and uplifting blend, beautifully packaged with a chic blue label. The brand has also launched a charity candle shining a light on mental health, in uplifting Lily of the Valley and Ivy. 75% of is cost (minus VAT) will be donated to ten charities supporting people with mental health issues and their families.

Zara Emotions by Jo Malone

If you fancy a treat for the senses without digging quite so deep, Jo Malone herself (of Jo Loves) has created an exclusive range for high street retailer, Zara. Zara Emotions is a collection of eight fragrances including Ebony Wood, Vetiver Pamplemousse and Fleur d'Oranger - and despite the accessible price range, there has been no compromise on quality.

My favourite is the same as Jo's - the heady Bohemian Bluebells, with lavender, sandalwood and musk - which she claims to be ‘unlike anything you’ve ever smelt before.’ The 10ml rollerballs are brilliantly priced at £5.99 and the perfect handbag size. Larger bottles come in at £15.99 for 40ml and £25.95 for 90ml. (The Belfast stand was looking a little sparse last week but you can purchase at Zara online.)

 HAIR

Moroccanoil Color Depositing Masks

Moroccanoil's argan oil-infused range is a godsend for hair that needs serious TLC - or any fan of super strong, glossy locks! It's new Colour Depositing Masks help maintain the quality of our hair colour and come in seven shades from Champagne to Bordeaux. This deep-conditioning treatment contains strengthening amino acids, hydrating apricot kernel oil and conditioning hydrolysed soy protein - as well as pure pigments.

FACE | SUSTAINABLE BEAUTY

From tiny independents to huge global brands, the beauty business is gradually becoming more sustainable, with an increasingly ethical approach to ingredients, packaging and production. While some take small steps and others giant strides to protect our planet, every improvement is a step in the right direction. The key thing is to start somewhere, from reducing or cutting plastic packaging, to recycling and going organic or GM-free. Here are some of the brands making the biggest impact.

Dr Hauschka

Dr Hauschka uses biodynamic farming methods to grow its ingredients and green electricity where possible. Most of its plant-based products are packaged in glass and aluminium jars and tubes.

Dr Hauschka Shower Cream £12

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Neal’s Yard

Neal’s Yard obtains ethical and environmentally friendly ingredient alternatives, supporting small distilleries and communities in Nepal, Serbia and Kenya.

Neal’s Yard Lavendar & Tea Tree Body Powder £10

Lush Shampoo Bar & Charity pot

Around 90% of Lush’s packaging is recycled and half of its products can be taken home without any packaging, including this cute shampoo bar. Result.


With each sale of a Charity Pot, Lush donates 100% of the price (minus the taxes) to grassroots organisations working on environmental conservation, animal welfare and human rights.

 

Hydro Phil Cotton Buds, £2.50 for 100

The UK uses 13.2 billion plastic cotton buds a year, more than any other European country. Hydro Phil biodegradable bamboo and cotton swabs come in a recycled box and are compostable when you're done.

Fushcia Vegan Wooden Brush Set, 35 euro

Irish brand, Fuschia Beauty's new 8-piece Vegan Wooden Brush Collection includes 3 eye and 5 face brushes to buff, blend and contour, with beautiful bamboo handles.

Soaper Duper

The packaging of these gorgeous sulphate-free shower and hand products are made from 50% PCR plastic and its tubes 55%. It has recycled over 22 metric tonnes of plastic and donated £150,000 to WaterAid.

The Kind Co

Irish company, The Kind Co curates a wonderful selection of products that are kind to the user and kind to the environment. These guys are a one-stop shop to purchase all you need to reduce plastic and find unique products that enable you to live more consciously with zero waste.

Weleda Skin Food

I first discovered Weleda through its camomile-based, skin-kind baby products. More than 75% of its plant ingredients come from biodynamic or organic farming and its commitment to biodiversity has been recognised by the Union for Ethical BioTrade.

 Sheamoisture
SheaMoisture is economically empowering cooperatives in countries such as Ghana, Jamaica and Turkey where its ingredients are grown.
African Black Soap Soothing Body Wash £12

The HandMade Soap Company

We totally love this Irish company’s hand creams, soaps and scrubs – our ultimate hand spa would include some sugar-based hand scrub, followed by some cuticle oil and topped off with some of their award-winning hand cream; all from the Bergamot and Eucalyptus collection.  
Their home collection is also pretty special - we especially love their lemongrass and cedarwood reed diffuser.

And the best bit is - all this company’s bottles, including hotel minis, are made from post-consumer recycled plastic – and everything is 100% recyclable too! This is a hugely important step in reducing plastic manufacturing, single-use plastic and closing the loop of recycling. All products are free from SLS, paragons and petrochemicals; plus they never test on animals.

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Albany Mae
Albany Mae provides biodegradable, plastic free tampons that contain zero toxins and no fragrance. you can get 16 regular organic tampon subscription from £4.50 a month

Guerlain
Guerlain runs an education programme to raise awareness of protecting bees (the brand’s emblem). Aqua Allegoira Coconut Fizz Eau De Toilette £59

Garnier
Garnier has partnered with TerraCycle to develop recycled packaging.
Micellar cleansing water combination skin £6

Mac
The Back-to-Mac scheme offers a complimentary lipstick to customers returning six Mac containers. Mac cosmetics mineralise blush in naturally flawless £23

By Sarah
This plant-powered skincare brand is reducing its environmental impact at every stage, from organic farming to recyclable shipping materials. Organic Facial Oil £32

 ECO-WARRIOR by Little Soap Company (£4/100g) gives major impact on cleansing with minimum impact on the environment. The company offers a collection of six thoughtful, high impact, plastic-free, vegan, cruelty-free, recyclable, sustainable, biodegradable, British-made, job-specific beauty bars, changing the way we cleanse forever. From washing and exfoliating to shaving and even shampooing, ECO WARRIOR has you covered - in bio-degradable bar form. 

Made with pure, natural ingredients, each with its own distinct use and bespoke essential oil blend (no synthetic fragrances), the ECO WARRIOR collection delivers affordable plastic free solutions to everyday needs.  Simply wrapped in a recyclable box, it helps eliminate single use plastic bottles from sinks, bathrooms and wash bags. Free from detergents, SLS, sulphates, alcohol, parabens, sorbates, silicones, synthetic preservatives. And with naturally occurring glycerine locked inside the bars, it is super moisturising, putting a stop to all the elements that have given soap a bad rap.

The SENSITIVE FACIAL BAR is our fave and has a blend of Chamomile & Calendula essential oils, for ultra-nourishing cleansing which is gentle enough to use on sensitive skin.

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Spotlight Oral Care
Spotlight Oral Care launched its latest range of effective and sustainable dental products which are toxin-free, environmentally friendly and cruelty-free.
The new range features 5 products which all contain clinically proven ingredients each tackling common dental concerns. With billions of toothpaste tubes sitting in landfill sites each year we are excited with their latest offering - even the packaging is made from sugar cane and is 100% recyclable - a game changer for a plastic-heavy industry.


REFILLABLE BEAUTY

According to a report from Mintel, ‘zero waste’ is set to be the key beauty trend in the coming years: 'Whether reducing or eliminating waste altogether, if brands don’t change their approach now they will become insignificant and may not exist in the future.’  Here is a round up of the best refillables on my radar... please share yours too @thefwordsonline

Chantecaille Pebble Compact

This extremely environmentally conscious brand uses high concentrations of botanicals and has a longterm focus on ocean health. The Pebble Compact houses its eye and cheek creams. £9.50, plus product around £19.50.

Lancome Idole

Lancome's new blockbuster perfume, wasn't just created by three female noses, smells of bergamot, rose & jasmine and comes in a chic super slim bottle. It's also refillable - on counter. It's not the first perfume brand to do so but I'm hoping lots more follow suit. Mugler offers the same for its Angel, Alien and Aura fragrances, one of which is refilled somewhere in the world every 25 seconds. Lancome Idole from £48 (refills from £38.50)

 

L'Occitane Almond Shower Duo

L'Occitane offers refills for many of its products including bath, shower and hand washes. My personal favourite is the Almond Shower Oil which smells incredible and leaves skin deeply nourished. £39 (worth £47.50)

Rachel Vosper

Based in London’s Belgravia, this store not only refills both its own candle vessels or a container of your choice with fragranced wax and bespoke scents. Available in-store and by post from £24. 

Andrea Garland Lip Balm Compacts

Customers love refilling these natural lip balms in retro-inspired compacts or vintage pots. From £15, refill charge is £3.50

Kjaer Weis blush

These metal cases with swivel tops can all be refilled with lip, cheek or eye products made from organic ingredients. £41, refill £24,

Tropic Bath Foam

Not only does this smell divine, its refillable pouch can replenish the original bottle twice over. £18, refill £27

Rituals Body Cream

Rituals reminds us that using a refill of its luxurious body creams saves 70 per cent in CO2 emissions and uses 65 per cent less energy and 45 per cent less water. £18.50, refill £15.50

Dior Prestige La Crème Texture Riche £285
In order to better safeguard the environment, Dior offers refillable bottles and jars within its Capture Totale, Dior Prestige and L’Or de Vie ranges.

Another brand committed to limiting their impact on the environment is L’Occitane, who have cut down on excessive holiday packaging. In a bid to minimise the amount of packaging materials, the company reduced its use of cardboard by over 31,000 kilograms in this year’s Christmas range!

The brand has never used plastic bags preferring paper bags instead and this year they have also ensured all its wrapping paper is made from recycled and recyclable materials.

 

FACE | AUTUMN-WINTER BEAUTY FIXES

I like to step up my skincare regime at this time of year when the shift between a centrally heated office or cosy fireside and the crisp outdoors can really take its toll on delicate skin, causing dryness, dehydration or irritation. Regular readers know by now that I’m a fan of hydration from within first and foremost – so firstly, top up on your H2O, and drink plenty of veggie-heavy winter soups to keep the nutrients coming in. As well as this, gently nourishing oils and creams can make a marked difference in days... add a couple of these beauty fixes to your AW regime and your hair and skin will thank you later.

PARCHED CHEEKS

My cold weather skincare regime is a little more luxe than usual, with the addition of rich cleansing balms, treatment serums and hydrating masks. A luxurious face oil can make a real difference and I like to apply Sunday Riley's Juno Antioxidant + Superfood Face Oil before bed at night. This glow-giver is high in omegas 3,6&9, essential amino acids and natural anti-inflammatory agents, which leave skin feeling velvety soft and luminous; not a dry patch in sight.

If you prefer a gel texture, try Image Vital C Hydrating Overnight Mask for a boost of hydration as you sleep. A triple mineral complex and blue green algae extract smooth and energise skin... nothing beats waking up looking extra energised and glowy! Add a green juice for breakfast for inside-out hydration and you're good to go!

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If you’re always on the go then Charlotte Tilbury Magic Night Cream is instant beauty sleep in a cream elixir! The supercharged formula feeds your skin and smooths its appearance hour by hour as you sleep, with a powerhouse of 8 magic ingredients, for gorgeous looking skin!

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I have recently added Tropic’s Supergreens facial oil to my skin routine. It is packed with vitamins and nutrients that help fight the effects of everyday pollution and leaved skin looking bright and healthy - it is also great if you have irritated or sensitive skin

DRY, CRISPY LOCKS

If central heating and icy winds leave your locks feeling stripped and crunchy, a weekly mask helps restore hair health. No need to wait around for hours or ruin pillows with an overnighter; Label M's Honey & Oat Mask works in just 3 minutes. Royal Black Honey, Oat Oil, antioxidants and protein protect from damage and hydrate where needed for soft, swishy hair. Restrict to mid lengths and ends as this is super rich and I find once a month is all my hair needs. PS the honey scent is swoony.

CROCODILE SHINS

We've all been there and know the drill. Scaly shins ain't sexy and should be slathered with a sumptuous rich body cream nightly to restore silky smoothness. Weekly exfoliation helps slough off any dead skin cells so that cream can really sink in and get to work. I am not a big fan of harsh exfoliators so I love the Yonka sugar scrubs which are gentle to the skin. They feel luxurious and melt into a milky texture when you add water, leaving skin feeling super soft.

If you're anything like me, a divinely scented product will help encourage you to do this on repeat (it really only takes a minute!). I'm a fan of  L'Occitane Milk Concentrate with Almond Milk and The Body Shop Body Butters are fantastic. NB these two body care steps are essential if you're an all year round self tanner.

Dry brushing is important and wonderful for exfoliating dry winter skin, leaving skin looking polished and fresh. It also helps detoxify by increasing blood circulation and promoting lymph flow and drainage so try and add this into your skin routine.  

The Body Shop do a great range and are made with a wooden handle making them much better for the environment. They also have one with a small handle making it easy to use.

FACE | #TAKENOTE OF THE NEW GEL LOOK NAIL ENAMEL BY NOTE COSMETICS

Colder temperatures often cause nails to become brittle and weak, therefore nail care is extra important during these cooler months. Aaannnnd; as we officially get ready to enter party season, it’s time to up our nail game, because why shouldn’t our nails be as ‘extra’ as our party outfits?!

Regular followers of the blog or my IG stories will know that I try and treat myself to fortnightly manicures at my local salon Sistine Beauty, to keep my nails strong and healthy, but sometimes life gets in the way and I have to make do with a quick home manicure.

So, I am very excited to see that Note Cosmetics (one of my fave brands) has created a brand new Gel Look nail polish range making it easy to achieve a salon-esque finish, without having to actually visit the salon!

The range mimics the plumping effects of a gel manicure, giving full coverage in just one stroke. The smooth, high shine finish of the polish gives your nails a professional salon look and with 18 shades to choose from you will be sorted for every event this festive season!

The formula is also long wearing making it easier to avoid those not-so-pretty chips, plus, the innovative contour brush spreads the polish evenly. Simply apply two thin coats of nail polish, wait two minutes for it to dry and, voilà, you’re ready to go!

Note Cosmetics Gel Look Nail Enamel is available in pharmacies nationwide

For stockist information please visit www.facebook.com/notecosmeticsireland

 

FACE | MAKE LIKE SANTA AND LET ELF CHOOSE THE BEST BEAUTY GIFTS FOR CHRISTMAS…

If you’re like me, then one of the first things you do to get yourself into a Christmassy mood is to enjoy a Sunday sofa snuggle with a hot chocolate and a festive movie. ELF is one of my faves, and when it comes to make up, e.l.f. is a super affordable choice for Christmas gifting. Check out my list of fave festive gift sets from this beauty brand here:

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3 Piece Lip Balm Set (€7.50/ £6.50)

Kiss dry lips goodbye with this set, including three moisturising lip balms. Beautifully tinted lip balms help to nourish, protect, and moisturize your pout. Apply over lips as often as desired. These lip balms can be worn alone or under lipgloss.

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Eyeshadow Duo Set (€7.50 or £6.50)



Go from fresh-faced beauty to glam diva with these fun, super versatile shades. The eyeshadow brush is soft, synthetic-haired and can be used with wet or dry products. The eyeshadow duos are richly pigmented, easy-to-blend eyeshadows that are crease resistant and long lasting.

e.l.f. Lash & Liner Set (€7.50/ £6.50)

e.l.f. Lash & Liner Set (€7.50/ £6.50)

Get eyes that wow this Christmas with the eyeliner and lash duo. This set includes e.l.f. Satin Eyeliner Pencil and Winged & Bold Luxe Lash Kit. The Satin Eyeliner Pencil is a creamy, pigmented pencil with a satin finish and built-in sharpener. To give your eye look that something extra this party season, team the eyeliner with the Winged & Bold Luxe Last Kit which includes a set of double layer, crisscross lashes that give a smokey, winged look.

e.l.f. Rose Gold Look Kit (€15.00/ £12.99)

e.l.f. Rose Gold Look Kit (€15.00/ £12.99)

Get the festive look with this 4-piece rose gold collection, perfect for that trendy, monochromatic look. This is your must-have Christmas Gift Set including e.l.f. Rose Gold Eyeshadow Palette, e.l.f. Baked Highlighter & Blush, e.l.f. Beautifully Bare Smooth Matte Eyeshadow and e.l.f. Matte Lip Color. Create the perfect eye look with the Rose Gold Eyeshadow Palette with 10 silky shades ideal for shading, highlighting and defining the eyes. Illuminate skin with two shades of shimmer with the Baked Highlighter & Blush. Finish your look with the Beautifully Bare Smooth Matte Eyeshadow and Matte Lip Color.

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All Over Glow Set (€15.00/ £12.99)

Get a subtle, refined glow with this 3-piece highlighting set, including Shimmer Highlighting Powder, Highlighting Brush and Shimmer Facial Whip. e.l.f. Shimmer Highlighting Powder is a lightweight and versatile pressed shimmer highlighting powder that helps amplify your natural radiance with a refined glow. Team this with the highlighting brush, a slim tapered brush, designed to offer precision highlighting on the cheeks and brow bones to achieve a strobing effect. Finally, e.l.f. Shimmer Facial Whip is a multi-purpose, whipped highlighter brightens skin for a radiant pop of shimmering colour.                                                                                                         

e.l.f. Matte Lip Set (€25.00/ £21.99)

e.l.f. Matte Lip Set (€25.00/ £21.99)

A set of four long-lasting, richly pigmented Matte Lip Colours, enriched with vitamins for healthy-looking, vibrant lips. e.l.f. Matte Lip Colors are long-lasting matte colours, enriched with vitamins, and a twist-up top. These lipsticks can be used alone or layer with your favourite lip gloss.

  #playbeautifully

e.l.f. cosmetics gift sets are available in select pharmacies nationwide

FACE | THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFT, WITH YON-KA PARIS SKINCARE

Last week I was in sunny LA enjoying the most incredible sunrises & sunsets with long days spent by the shore, grabbing some much-needed winter sun alongside plenty of Vitamin D and Vitamin Sea!.
As I ate my meals al fresco, Christmas was most definitely the last thing on my mind, but since stepping off the plane back home, I’ve seen signs of Christmas in every shop, so I couldn’t help but get straight into the festive spirit.

There is something so magical about this time of the year; and although I prefer the presence of those I love rather than actual presents, I adore gifting my loved ones with special tokens of appreciation.  

If you’re looking for an ideal Christmas gift that is guaranteed to earn the biggest smile, Yon-Ka Paris has three gorgeous Christmas gift sets which make the ideal gift… Found in over 5000 spas and skin care centres worldwide, Yon-Ka has gained the respect of beauty specialists for its achievements and professionalism over the past 60 years. Yon-Ka symbolizes constant rejuvenation, Yon-ka products are created with plants, fruits, and marine extracts to balance, soothe, revive and rejuvenate. Each ingredient has a specific role to play: fruit acids moisturize and enhance the complexion, vitamins combat free radicals, seaweed re-mineralizes and plant oils nourish and soften.

 

The first gift option is the Yon-Ka Paris Body Vanity (£74); it contains two key products and a fab vanity bag.

Yon-Ka Paris Huile Delicieuse… 100ml £39

With its thin and light texture, this oil which is made with sesame, sunflower and baobab is quickly absorbed into the skin, meaning no sticky sensation and drying time. It softens the skin, brings it glow and nourishes deeply. Its delicate, natural and relaxing scent invites the mind to escape on a journey to well-being. The ultimate aromatherapy treat you can indulge in, in your own home.

Yon-Ka Paris Gommage Aux Sucres… 200ml £36

This 2-sugar body scrub melts on the skin and turns into milk when mixed with water. It exfoliates and leaves a light veil of softness on the skin. Free of dead cells, the skin is supple and glowing. After the exfoliating action of the brown and white sugars, the sunflower oil nourishes and softens the skin. Even with its oil base, it is rapidly absorbed, it does not leave behind any oily residue.

 

Next up is the Yon-Ka Paris For Men gift (£84) with two fantastic products as well as a Leonard’s shaving brush and a cool wash bag.

Yon-Ka Paris Nutri-Moist Crème 40ml … £42.50

This cream protects the skin from environmental stress and restores all of its energy. A true multi-vitamin antioxidant cocktail for soft, supple and rehydrated skin, especially during the cold weather! This crème has a quickly absorbed texture with a pick me up effect, which is perfect for men on the go in the morning.

Yon-Ka Paris Barber Shave 100ml … £31

This shaving skincare is ultra-effective on tough stubble, while remaining gentle on the most sensitive skin. A true soothing remedy that reduces irritation and small cuts caused by shaving, for absolute comfort. This product contains the purifying effect of essential oils, that further clears the skin after cleansing, before shaving.

Lastly, we have the Yon-Ka Paris Anti-Aging Vanity (£110).  This luxury vanity bag gift contains three luxury anti-ageing products as well as the beautiful vanity bag itself.

Yon-Ka Paris Advanced Optimizer Serum… 30ml £62.50

Yon-Ka Paris Advanced Optimizer Serum is the ultimate firming product. It visibly lifts the skin on the face. This magic fluid is quickly absorbed and has an instantaneous, visible, long lasting effect. Containing hibiscus peptides, silicon rich horsetail and vitamin C titrated wild rose, this is a truly luxurious and fast working serum. Combined with the Advanced Optimizer Crème, this is the ultimate twin treatment for visibly younger skin that is firmer and smoother. This kick-ass duo will redefine facial contours and gives a visible lift effect.

Yon-Ka Paris Advanced Optimizer Crème 50ml… £62

This revitalizing cream is generous and comfortable. It acts in tandem with the serum to visibly redefine face contours. It contains white lupin peptides.

Yon-Ka Paris Advanced Optimizer Gel Lift 5ml

Cool, gentle, and quickly absorbed, this deliciously naturally aromatic gel envelops, smooths and restores firmness to the delicate area of the neck, decolleté and bust. The skin is refined and its tone improves rapidly; leaving the breast area visibly firmer.