Hall of Fame - Dermalux LED Phototherapy

After I posted another picture of a client under the lamp yesterday I had quite a few questions about LED and what it entails. As it's currently one of my favourite machines (after my dishwasher ;) ), I thought I'd give you a very brief lowdown so that you can seek out the treatments in your local area.

LED stands for Light Emitting Diode and works on the principle that light, used in the correct, clinical way, is massively beneficial to the skin. While we usually associate light exposure with negative effects such as skin ageing and damage, light can have massively positive influences on your body. It helps produce vitamin D - which 1 in 5 of us in the UK are deficient in*, boosts energy and serotonin levels, and also promotes healing, reduces inflammation and pain and can prevent tissue damage.

LED Phototherapy is known for its regenerating and anti-inflammatory properties. Research has shown that it increases collagen production, destroys acne-causing bacteria, reduces inflammation, improves skin tone, texture and clarity and can ease muscular and joint pain.
(As an aside, if you're a sun addict, this is one way to get the benefits that you feel after sun exposure without the obvious downsides.)

In a treatment, it's the perfect way to round off an aggressive procedure, whether or not that is peels, micro-needling, dermaplaning, or invasive needle work, hence why it's so popular.

When LED was first around, I personally found the machines a little harsh - or unrefined. They would trigger headaches in me and I just never really got on board with them. The newer versions - and especially the Dermalux machine, are honestly brilliant. Both in terms of ease-of-use for a therapist and the results for the clients.

The joy of this is that you can lie/sit down for 20 minutes and get up and go back to work. It's one of the few treatments that you genuinely can do on a break.

I mainly use it on two settings: skin rejuvenation and varying types of acne.

Dermalux has separate programmes for all of the following:

Skin Rejuvenation
Sun Damage
Acne and Problem Skin
Rosacea and Redness
Eczema, Psoriasis and Dermatitis
Sensitive and Inflammatory conditions
Wound Healing and Scarring
Restoring Radiance

and can be used on all ages, all skin types, all skin colours.

It's super effective when used as a course, and makes the perfect pre-wedding course of treatments for brides-to-be, or people with big events to attend because the effect is immediate and there is no down time. You walk out glowing. Literally.

For acne sufferers, you're looking more at blue light, same machine, different colour of light. The effects are genuinely noticeable, especially when you have the treatments regularly, starting with an intensive course, then reducing down to maintenance appointments.

Dermalux have a clinic locator on their website - Clinic Locator that you can use to find your nearest clinic offering their services.
They are not available in the US yet, but I think they're looking into that market at the moment.**

Honestly, try one. I love it. If I could afford it I'd buy one for my house.
On that note, I know there are hand-held devices for use at home. I haven't used them. I will look into them, but in the short term, have a treatment with a pro and see how your skin reacts to the machine. Speak to your therapist. It's my experience that once something is in your house you don't use it as much, and that defeats the object..

More information on Dermalux can be found here: DermaluxLED.com 

Here's to glowing skin! 

*latest figures from the NHS, who now recommend year-round supplementation - source
**there are other LED machines available but I cannot vouch for them in the same way, as I haven't used them professionally.



Not sponsored in any way. I use the Dermalux in Teresa Tarmey's clinic but have no business affiliation with the company. It's just bloody good. More info on Teresa's clinic is here: www.teresatarmey.com/prices


The views expressed on this site are the author's own and are provided for informational purposes only. The author makes no warranties about the suitability of any product or treatment referenced or reviewed here for any person other than herself and any reliance placed on these reviews or references by you is done so solely at your own risk. Nothing on this site shall be construed as providing dermatological, medical or other such advice and you are always advised to seek the advice of a suitable professional should you have any such concerns.

Hall of Fame - Skincando - the products you didn't know you needed

Back in January when I was in LA, I went to meet May Lindstrom in her LA office. There was a pot of Combat-Ready Balm in the bathroom and I picked it up. Obviously. In my defence, it was out in the open, I don't go snooping in people's bathrooms. (No really I don't.)

May's team were very complimentary about the brand so I of course had to get some. (Another reason I love May, she and her team spread the love.)

After I Instagrammed the above photo, the founder of skincando, Sara Damelio, reached out to me and sent me a travel/gift pack.

To say I have been blown away is an understatement. I love this brand. I do not foresee a time when I will not have Combat-Ready Balm in my house. I've used it on my face (spots), my body, the kids, the husband, everywhere. The Mr. burnt a small patch of the back of his neck while we were away (his fault) and I applied this directly on it for a couple of days. It both soothed it and prevented it blistering. 

I've used the lip balms non-stop since I got my hands on them. I am obsessed. The Combat-Ready Lip Balm and the Brew Lip Balm are honestly brilliant.  

The Bug Repellant spray, while it does actually work to repel bugs, actually smells so nice that I randomly spray it in the house to wake me up. Think Caudalie Beauty Elixir for mosquitos. :) Unlike a lot of repellents, the spray is child, animal and earth-friendly. 

There are three different sections to the brand, Combat-Ready, Luxe and Kids. Sara also offers a vegan version of her Miracle Cream, knowing that not everyone wants to use beeswax. Each product is made by hand in small batches to keep it fresh.

There is a lovely back story to the Combat-Ready balm involving a soldier sending a letter asking for more of the 'magic balm' to soothe his skin in Iraq. This led to Sara starting Operation Sand Flea. A brilliant initiative where customers can shop online for the troops overseas and skincando will cover the shipping and donate extra products in each parcel. How great is that?

skincando is available from www.skincando.com and they ship worldwide for free. 

For a limited time, Sara will include one free Travel Miracle Cream per order over $50.00 exclusively for you lovely readers. 

More information on Operation Sand Flea is here: www.skincando.com/donations

Finding brands like this are my absolute favourite part of my job - the smaller start-ups get me the most excited. 

For the gorgeousness of the products, the affordability and the ethos of the brand, skincando, in its entirety, is going in the Hall Of Fame.

*Not sponsored in any way. No affiliate links.

Hall of Fame - Chantecaille Just Skin

Shiny new logo for a shiny New Year!

After discussing Chanel's new foundation earlier this week and mentioning this, it occurred to me that it has hardly been mentioned here, despite me using it for 10+ (or thereabouts) years. Chantecaille Just Skin 

How is it described?
'This exceptionally versatile three-in-one formula represents a new approach to foundation, powered by the latest Japanese technology. It provides excellent coverage, smooths fine lines and offers sun protection.'

For me, it's a cross between a tinted moisturiser and a foundation, but it's closer to the moisturiser end of the spectrum.

How many shades?
6

What's in it?
Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Butylene Glycol, Noepentyl Glycol Diethylhexanoate, Peg-10 Dimethicone, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Peg-400, Magnesium Sulfate; May Contain: Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Dimethicone/ Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Mica, Silica, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Phenoxyethanol, Dextrin Palmitate, Methylparaben, Tocopherol, Methicone, Alcohol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Algae Extract, Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Preregen, Nectapure, Edelweiss GC, Rose Water Concentrated E4445, Colorants, Talc, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides, Stearic Acid, Aluminum Hydroxide

How best to apply?
I apply with fingers. It's almost like a moisturiser.

How's the coverage?
It covers but it's sheer. You can still see skin underneath.

Do you need a primer with it?
No, but I use one.

Can you feel it on the skin? Is it breathable?
Extremely breathable, this literally feels like a face cream as opposed to a foundation.

Does it give good glow?
This being Chantecaille, of course. Skin is luminous after application.

What's the staying power?
I can happily apply once in the morning and it will last most of the day. If I was going out in the evening however, I would have to reapply. Due to the high water content it will go patchy if you are dehydrated. I take this as my cue to add a ton of hydration after the evening cleanse.

Does it block pores?
No. It's light and doesn't sit 'in' the skin.

Best skin type/age?
You will need more coverage than this if you have particularly problematic skin. It's brilliant if you have fairly good skin, and across any age, but I think it would be most appreciated by a slightly older skin - and by that, I mean 30+.

Anti-ageing benefits? And would they/do they work?
Yes. And yes, in my experience.
Hyaluronic acid, 'botanical anti-pollution and antioxidants' including honeysuckle, green tea and edelweiss.

SPF content? Chemical/physical?
15 - physical - titanium dioxide

Who is it best for?
Anyone wanting light-medium coverage, it is buildable, but not for you if you want heavy-duty coverage.

Does it service WOC with the shades?
No. I love Chantecaille but they have a long way to go with darker colours, not just in this, but in Future Skin and the Compact Makeup also. And some of the names of the darker Future Skin colours are just 'no', but that's for another conversation.

And?
Like I said, I've used this for years, it's in my permanent stash and my backup stash. I switch between Tan and Wheat, depending on my sun exposure, the time of year etc.
I won't be without it.
A little goes a long way, I probably use two tubes a year.

Chantecaille Just Skin is £58.00 from SpaceNK.com or $69.00 on Nordstrom.com

Hall of Fame - Estee Lauder Revitalising Supreme CC Cream

So I first blogged about this nearly 18 months ago and during that time I've used three tubes of it, equating to roughly 6 months usage per tube. I was never on board with the labelling of creams using bra sizes - if you know what I mean - although I'm quite interested to see what someone could do with an XX cream - but it doesn't really bother me anymore - BB/CC etc are a part of our beauty-buying lives now. I have some real makeup loves and they are long overdue for the Hall of Fame.

What is it?
'This innovative, multi-action formula richly nourishes, comforts and revitalises skin's appearance.'
It's a tinted moisturiser/primer/spf/glow in a tube hybrid.

Who is it for?
All skin types. The Revitalizing Supreme range is aimed at people with signs of ageing, but Anna from Vivianna does Makeup also loves this and she has no signs of ageing...the wench.

How do you use it?/Where to use in your routine?
Apply a 5p size all over a clean, moisturised face in the morning. Add a little more if necessary, but start with less and build up. It can be used either on its own or under foundation.

What’s good about it?
This to me, is one of the CC creams/primers that I reach for regularly, especially if I'm not planning on wearing makeup. I prefer it on its own. It is a universal colour, suiting all shades, that disperses and adapts to your skin on contact, even darker skins. I write about it in more detail in my first review here. This is the first thing you put on your skin after moisturiser, and because this adds colour to the skin, I class this as makeup product. But it's a friend with benefits. It adds colour, takes away dullness, adds SPF and works as a primer - a massive all-in-one. The immediate lifting of your skintone is brilliant.

A snippet from my original review:

Suitable for:

Covering blemishes? No.
Evening out skin tone? Yes.
Hydrating/prepping the skin for use under makeup? Yes
Wearing alone without makeup? Yes, if you are having a no-makeup-day.
Heavy on top of moisturiser? No.
Makes you look better than before you used it? Oh YES.


Estee Lauder's Revitalising Supreme CC Cream is £42.00 and available from Selfridges.com - I'm sorry US readers - I don't think it's available over there! (Well I certainly cannot find it anywhere...)

Hall of Fame - Zelens Z Luminous and a 30% discount across Zelens.com

Ah Dr Lens. My favourite Italian. After Rocky Balboa. This bottle of whiteness saved my face from significant pigmentation and is therefore going straight into the Hall of Fame.

What is it?

'This advanced serum visibly brightens, smoothes and hydrates the skin.'

It's a serum to tackle dull and pigmented skin.

Who is it for?

Anyone with pigmentation issues, dull skin, skin with discolouration issues.

What’s in it?

Aqua (Water), Niacinamide, Dimethicone, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Cyclopentasiloxane, Pentylene Glycol, Squalane, Phytic Acid, Phenylethyl Resorcinol, Zinc Glycinate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Bisabolol, Hydrolyzed Pearl, Silanetriol, Silica, Polysilicone-11, Benzophenone-3, Polysorbate 60, Sodium Metabisulfite, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sorbitan Isostearate, Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Benzoate, Parfum (Fragrance), Linalool, Sodium Hydroxide

Possibly acne/allergy/troubling for some ingredients?

fragrance

Natural? Organic? Man made? Vegan?

A mix of naturals and super hi-tec/vegan

Tested on animals/sold in China?

No/No

What's not in it?

mineral oil

parabens

How do you use it?/Where to use in your routine?

I applied 2/3 pumps all over twice a day until it ran out. After acids, under moisturiser.

What’s good about it?

Z Luminous was 95% responsible for removing the patch of pigmentation in between my eyebrows that I gained over the summer (despite using SPF50). Almost singlehandedly. 

Whilst I was still using my acids and some retinols, I used this consistently throughout September/October until it ran out and my pigmentation has substantially faded. It's pretty much indistinguishable unless you're looking for it.

It is easily the most effective serum for my pigmentation that I have used.*

Dr Lens (Marko to regular viewers of my channel) is the King of Serums. The formulas are all well thought out and they work. There's really not much more to say.

Niacinamide, resorcinol, zinc-glycine complex and phytic acid all work together - at high %s - to target all signs of pigmentation/dullness and discolouration. I first wrote about the effects of niacinamide over 5 years ago here.

What’s not so good about it?

It's £135.00. But in some cases, you pay peanuts, you get monkeys. The second ingredient in this is niacinamide. It's an expensive formulation, and the proof is in the pudding. 

To celebrate landing in the Hall of Fame, Zelens are giving all of you lovely readers, even those of you overseas, a 30% discount across the board from Zelens.com until next Wednesday evening. 

As an extra, you will receive 1 x free Skin Perfectors Collection (worth £82.50) with a spend of £125 and above on anything purchased between now and Monday evening.

The 30% off code will remain open until 11.59pm UK time on Wednesday 2nd December.

Your Code is HIRONS30.

www.zelens.com

*Bear in mind everyone's skin is different. I attacked my pigmentation early, and although it was a seasonal flare-up, how good something will work is dependent on a lot of other factors. I'll try and answer as many of your questions in the comments as possible to help ascertain if this is for you or not.

**No affiliate links and I have not worked with Dr Lens since Dec 2013. 

Those of you that I know will ask - You will know what is in my Cult Beauty Box before this offer ends.

This is not in it.

Hall of Fame and the second reveal from the Cult Beauty Box

Choosing one product from Tata Harper for the Hall of Fame is like choosing a favourite child. You could if you really put your mind to it and it all depends on your mood on the day. ;) Calm down. I'm kidding. 

Kind of.

There will undoubtedly be another Tata product in the HOF before too long, but for today, and the box, I went with the Rejuvenating Serum.

Why? I hear you ask. Well: while the Tata cleansers could all hold their own individually in the Hall of Fame, it's much harder to be specific when it comes to adding a one-serum-fits-all into a workable routine.

Thus I plumped for the serum.

What is it?

'This award-winning, best-selling multitasking collagen treatment addresses multiple of ageing by delivering the benefits of 7 anti-ageing products in one serum.'

A great serum to tackle signs of ageing in all skin types.

Who is it for?

While it can be safely used across all demographics, I would go crazy if I caught Ava using this. She doesn't need it and it would be wasted. (Not that this has ever stopped her previously) Essentially all skins 30+ or younger if you have a busy lifestyle in the city/eat a lot of sugar/smoke/drink etc...

Anyone concerned with visible signs of skin that is not looking its best.

What’s in it?

Aloe barbadensis leaf juice*, Mangifera indica (Mango)  seed butter, Rosa damascena flower water*, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Olea europaea (Olive) oil*, Galactoarabinan, Cetearyl alcohol, Glycerin, Carthamus tinctorius (Safflower) oleosomes*, Oryza sativa (Rice) extract*, Cetearyl olivate,  Centella asiatica (Gotu Kola) extract*,  Leuconostoc ferment filtrate (radish root extract), Sambucus nigra (Elderberry) fruit extract, Arnica montana leaf Extract*, Calendula officinalis flower Extract*, Spiraea Ulmaria (meadowsweet) Flower Extract*, Tilia europaea (Linden) leaf/flower Extract *,  Medicago sativa (Alfalfa) leaf Extract*, Lavandula stoechas (Spanish Lavender) extract, Narcissus tazetta (Daffodil) bulb extract*, Phoenix dactylifera (Date) seed extract, Menyanthes trifoliata (Buckbean) leaf Extract, Salix alba (Willow) bark extract*, Sodium hyaluronate, Sclerotium gum, Cetearyl glucoside, Sorbitan olivate, Soybean peroxidase, Superoxide dismutase, Sodium phytate, Natural alcohol, Aroma, Geraniol, Limonene, Farnesol, Eugenol, Citral

*Organic

Possibly acne/allergy/troubling for some ingredients?

essential oils

Natural/Organic/Man made/Vegan/GMO free/Fair trade/Gluten?

natural/partially organic/GMO free/Gluten free/vegan etc etc

Tested on animals/sold in China?

No/No - BUAV approved - and bunny symbol on packaging

What's not in it?

mineral oil

synthetic fragrance

parabens

sulfates

phthalates

animal derivatives

filler

How do you use it?/Where to use in your routine?

Apply AM and PM under moisturiser. I take a couple of pumps on to my fingertips, apply all over the face and leave to absorb for a couple of minutes. Moisturiser goes straight on afterwards.

What’s good about it?

This is a great multi-tasking serum for all skins, but especially suited to those of us with a slightly older skin in need of some firming action. It's not quite an iron, but it helps. :)

It is loaded with the usual Tata green ingredients, including narcissus, galactoarabinan, gotu kola, arnica, rosewater, rice berry, elderberry and calendula. All in all, designed to be firming, softening, protective, smoothing, plumping and helping elasticity.

Vogue magazine called it 'life-changing' and Marie Claire magazine awarded it their  Prix D’Excellence de la Beaute award.

What’s not so good about it?

While I'm still not in love with the term 'non-toxic' on the packaging, green brands are huge in the US at the moment and I don't see that wording changing any time soon. I'm looking at the product behind the claim, and for me, it stands up, whether you eat it or not....

The Tata Harper Rejuvenating Serum is £80.00 for 30ml and available from cultbeauty.co.uk.

It's also in my upcoming Cult Beauty Box which you can sign up for here: www.cultbeauty.co.uk/cult-beauty-box-caroline-hirons

Please note - there is no obligation on signing up to the box - you just get first dibs.

Word to the wise: the cost of the box will be less than the combined total of the two items already revealed - and there are 6 items in the box. 

Hall of Fame - Darphin 8-Flower Nectar Oil and a Meet'n'Greet in John Lewis, Kingston

As much as I loved meeting Paula Begoun, it was when she said 'Don't even get me started on french pharmacy brands!' that I knew we would never be bonded by facial oils. 

If I could only pick one country from which to buy all my skincare it would be France. And Darphin would be in my Top 3 (ooh maybe a top brand by country post is an idea?). 

The hardest part of choosing a Darphin product for the Hall of Fame is keeping it realistic and not listing 5 straight off the bat. For this particular post, I also had the Intral range on my desk, and I've already added the Purifying Balm, the first product I properly fell in love with. 

In the end, dear reader, I plumped for the 8-Flower Nectar Elixir. If you are a teenager, this may not be for you. In fact if you aren't concerned about lack of elasticity, dullness, fine lines and surface dehydration, one of the other oils would maybe be better. BUT: if you smoke, drink, live in the city etc - and are under 30, I'd still look into this. ANYWAY: back to the basics.

What is it?

'Purifies and rebalances your skin overnight so that wrinkles and lines are smoothed, your skin feels plumper and your complexion looks revitalised and more radiant.

Who is it for?

See intro paragraph but essentially anyone concerned with signs of ageing. All of them.

What’s in it?

Jojoba Seed Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, Oleic/Linoleic/Linolenic Polyglycerides, Avocado Oil, Apricot Kernel Oil, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Hexyldecanol, Cananga Odorata Flower Oil, Jasmine Flower Extract, Iris Pallida Root Extract, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract, Phytosterols, Date Seed Extract, Cranberry Seed Oil, Olive Fruit Oil, Patchouli Oil, Helichrysum Angustifolium Flower Oil, Lavender Oil, Orange Flower Oil, Beta-Carotene, Rose Flower Oil, Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil, Rosewood Oil, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, Tocopherol, Sorbitan Oleate, Benzyl Acetate, Benzyl Salicylate, Limonene, Benzyl Benzoate, Farnesol, Linalool, Geraniol, Citronellol <ILN40767>

Possibly acne/allergy/troubling for some ingredients?

essential oils

Natural? Organic? Man made? Vegan?

natural/vegan

Tested on animals/sold in countries that test on animals?

no/unknown

What's not in it?

mineral oil

synthetic fragrance

How do you use it?

'In the evening, apply five drops to face and neck'

That's great in theory, but this is an open neck so getting precisely 5 drops is harder than one might think. I tend to do a small 'dollop', like a 5p size - (dime for US peeps), therapist swipe, and massage into face.

What’s good about it?

It's just a really beautiful formulation that absorbs almost instantly, leaving no residue after application. Skin is plumped and glowing, fine lines disappear (if only for a while - obvs) and any products applied on top also seem to work brilliantly. Some people would have you believe that 'an oil is an oil' and that there are no differences between something like this and an oil you can buy from a health food shop. I politely disagree. The proof is in the processes. 

This refines, smooths, softens, increases suppleness and elasticity, restores vitality, and ultimately nourishes and moisturises.

What’s not so good about it?

It's £95.00. But: it should last between 9 months and a year if you use it a few times a week in the evenings.

Where to use in your routine?

P.M. - over serums and under moisturisers. Although you can obviously use this on its own, I'm a big fan of layering and this is great for 'sealing' the deal over an active, thinner, serum. I like a little moisturiser over this but that's more for how it feels than any huge added benefit.

8-Flower Nectar is £95.00 from Spacenk.com and £94.00 from JohnLewis.com (at time of writing)

If you watch my vlogs you'll know that I went to Paris with Darphin recently to check out their revamped Institut on Rue Saint-Honore. I wanted to do some prep work for what will be my last 'southern' meet-up for a while.

On Thursday 3rd December, I am going to be working in the beautiful new Darphin space (pictured above) in John Lewis in Kingston-upon-Thames. I'll be on counter from 5pm-8pm talking all things Darphin and skin. And basically just everything in-between.

Darphin are throwing in some added extras too:

• With every two products bought on the day, you will receive an exclusive gift from Darphin.
• A chance to win a bespoke selection of Darphin products (£200 value)
• Complimentary Darphin Hand and Arm Massages
• Darphin gift wrapping
• Complimentary refreshments

I hope to see some of you there!

John Lewis, Kingston.

Thursday 3rd December

5pm-8pm (until they throw me out)

The event at John Lewis is sponsored by Darphin, my review is my review.

HALL OF FAME WEEK

OK in for a penny, in for a pound as we say. Well, someone says that.

Here's the thing lovely readers. I am English. We don't do Thanksgiving. We do Harvest Festival. And that has been and gone. We donate a lot of cupboard goods to the school and church collection points and that is then distributed amongst homeless shelters. My family also have a large clearout and donate clothing and winter coats/toys etc pre-Christmas. It's good for the soul. You get what you give.

At no point in this process do we think 'Ooh lovely I'll have 50% off that Amazon deal as well thanks.'.

Having said that, I recognise that all of the online retailers that ship internationally have to 'keep up with the Joneses' and the Joneses, in this case, are their competitors in the USA and Canada. And who doesn't love a bargain?

However. There are plenty of bloggers already showing you where the upcoming offers are to be had.

I instead, would like to introduce you to my 'Hall of Fame' week and alongside that, sneak in a few peeks to my third collaboration with Cult Beauty by way of the luxury 'Box of Dreams' that launches 'soon'. I've been a bit tight with the Hall of Fame love lately and it's time to rectify that situation.

The first Hall of Fame entrant is up this evening. And it's in the new box. Later in the week there will be other offers similar to the Kate Somerville one last week, and further peeks to the box.

Don't spend all your money on that Paperwhite Kindle. Just sayin'. ;)

And for my family in Tennessee and Mississippi and my friends across the States and Canada....  

Hall of Fame - Tata Harper Replenishing Nutrient Complex

This post is written to you in the fading midst of a beauty panic. Upon doing research for this post - it became obvious that this product was not listed anywhere on the Tata Harper website and thus, I feared it had been discontinued. I say 'feared', I mean 'actually texted Tata Harper - the Tata Harper - whose number I was given last year when I was supposed to meet up with her and didn't - and said 'PLEASE GOD TELL ME THIS ISN'T DISCONTINUED'.' 

Let me take this opportunity to extend my apologies to Tata and assure her that I don't normally behave in such a manner (I totally do) but you know - skincare panic. What's a girl to do? 

I promise never to do it again.            Maybe.

Suffice to say, had RNC been discontinued, it would have been a tragedy of beauty-esque proportions (for me) as Replenishing Nutrient Complex is going in the Hall of Fame.

What is it?

A super-lightweight oil that actually acts as a serum upon application. It's incredibly light, penetrates extremely easily and can be used in a multitude of ways. It was one of my most-used products last year, so much so that I kept it on my bedside so I could have a sneaky swipe whenever I had the need. 

What's not in it?

This being Tata Harper it's free from parabens, phthalates, synthetic colours or fragrance and sulfates - it's labelled as being completely free of chemicals and synthetic ingredients.

What's in it?

Rosehip mosquetta oil*, Simmondsia chinensis (Jojoba) seed oil*, Olea europea (Olive) oil*, Prunus armeniaca (Apricot) kernel oil*, Borago officinalis (Borage) flower*, Medicago sativa (Alfalfa) flower*, Sambucus nigra fruit extract, Calendula officinalis (Calendula) flower*, Arnica montana (Arnica) flower*, Tilia europaea (Linden) leaf & flower*, Daucus carota (Carrot) seed oil, Natural essential oil blend** *Organic ingredients **Fragrances from 100% natural clinical grade essential oils

Who is it for?

It would be all too easy to say 'Anyone with skin'. Alas, that is the case. It's suitable for all skin types but is particularly brilliant for sensitive, dehydrated, acne-scarred, dry skins. See? Pretty much anyone. 

What's good about it?

Everything. It's the best form of rosehip oil used in a serum setting that I've come across. Rosehip oil is a wonderful ingredient but I've noticed that in recent times, a lot of rosehip oils on the market have been really heavy and clogging. (Notable exceptions are this, and Sunday Riley's Isis oil, which is also lush, but used differently.)

Think of this as a multivitamin for the face. It's like a weightless cashmere blanket that you put on either before you go out into the elements or to repair chapped, stressed skin when you come in from the elements. It stabilises, soothes, softens and used under moisturiser gives any skin a beautiful glow.

The rollerball dispenses just enough product to ensure that not too much is used, but enough comes out to do the job.

What's not so good about it?

It's not the easiest to get hold of in the UK if you actually want to play with it first. It's London or nothing. 

There's nothing lacking in the actual product though.

How do you use it?

Roll it all over the forehead, cheeks, across the nose and around the mouth and then massage in. I use it on its own, over moisturiser as a protective layer, under moisturiser for comfort and in the morning or evening. 

Seriously. It's January. And freezing bloody cold in the UK. You need this. It's boiling bloody hot in Australia/other lucky places. You need this too. I bought the rollerball back in the summer and am about a third of the way through it. It should last you ages.

Replenishing Nutrient Complex starts at £36.00 and is available from, Cult Beauty and Being Content in the UK and all over the US including Sephora.com and www.tataharperskincare.com which also has a handy store locator.

Things I will never be without again. Part One. Illamasqua VOW Pencil - Hall of Fame

My first ever Illamasqua post. Yes, yes I know, outside it's 2013, in my head it's 1982.

THIS. You NEED this. 

Ignore the 'eye' part. This is one of those perfectly coloured pencils that cover a multitude of sins. 

I use it around the sides of my nose, under my brow - and most often, around my lips before reapplying my lip gloss/stick.

It's beyond genius and I won't be without it. Ever.

Go get one. £14.00

www.Illamasqua.com

As an aside: has anyone ever had bad service at an Illamasqua counter? Not me. And a special shout out to the team in Selfridges Trafford who repeatedly take amazing care of my Mum - and she's a tough cookie to please.

*PR Sample - although I've already bought one for Mum.

Jane Scrivner Nourishing Cleanser - Hall of Fame

A couple of weeks ago I spoke on a panel at Professional Beauty Manchester about changing trends in the industry. Jane Scrivner was on the panel with me and when I went to visit her stand I immediately honed in on her cleansing balm. The Nourishing Cleanser is a beautiful balm that contains:

Organic Jojoba Oil
Beeswax
Essential Oils of
Ylang Ylang, Elemi, Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Lemongrass, Lavender, Myrrh, Sandalwood and Sweet Orange

That's it.

Who is it for?

Any skin type. The formula is nourishing without being gloopy - and nice and oily without being comedogenic.

What's good about it?

For something containing essential oils I have found this to cause no irritation whatsoever. It's incredibly gentle. It's a sophisticated formulation in that it holds as a balm, but melts slowly and luxuriously.

It removes all makeup effortlessly and is an absolute joy to use. Since I popped the lid I can't seem to pick up anything else to cleanse with in the evening. Skin is left soft and smooth and with no residue to touch. It's a finer, lighter formulation than most.

It doesn't emulsify. It's a balm, then oil, then rinsed. Bliss.

87% organic. The remaining 13% is beeswax and essential oils that are natural.

It comes with a big, fluffy, flannel mitt - not a muslin in sight. *JAZZ HANDS*

What's not so good about it?

Not much to be honest. It's on the higher end of pricing at £43.00 for 100ml - BUT - it should last a long time and they have a 10% discount offer on your first order via their website.

If you have a spa/salon I would highly recommend you look into this range - it ticks all the boxes. Quality product, a keen eye on customer experience and driven entirely by someone who cares about the end result for the client, not the bottom line for the shareholder.

Highly, highly recommended.

As a special deal for my lovely readers they are offering an additional £5 off your first order - on top of the 10% they normally offer. Quote HIRONS007 (had to get the Bond reference in) at checkout.

All info on Jane Scrivner can be found on the website: www.JaneScrivner.com 



*PR Sample - no affiliate link and no business connection to JS.

Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm - review and Hall of Fame entry

OK so the downside of constantly recommending (unintentionally) brands that are only available in limited distribution is a lot of unhappy readers contacting me from the US (mostly) to say 'Erm excuse me. I can't buy that!' 

While I was in NYC recently I finally picked this up. At first glance it's fairly inconspicuous - even on the shelf. You have to really look to find it. It's hidden amongst green boxes and taller bottles. It comes as is, no box, no shrink wrap, no inner protection. I would open it before you buy to make sure it is fingerprint free.

That aside:

This is a great cleanser. If you have been searching for a balm cleanser, or used some that may have broken you out or are perhaps intolerant of essential oils in products, this could be for you.

What's in it?

Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Caprylic/capric Triglyceride, Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate, Polyethylene, Peg-5 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Water, Tocopherol, Phenoxyethanol

That formula is apparently what makes lard - because that is what this balm looks like. Lard. Not a bad thing - just an observation.

What's NOT in it?

Fragrance, mineral oil, animal by-products, essential oils

Who is it for?

Pretty much anyone - but it will be especially good for people who are completely intolerant of essential oils or synthetic fragrance or who find other balm cleansers too clogging.

In my opinion: Suitable for the most sensitive and the most acnaic.

What's good about it?

This is probably about the best balm cleanser you will find for price, functionality and efficacy.

• It removes everything - even waterproof - easily, quickly and with no faff.
• Leaves the skin completely clean and soft - does not leave an oily film behind.
• A small amount goes a long way.
• Brilliant for massage.
• Economical
• I suspect its probably the best balm available for sensitive skins (I can't promise anything - it's a general observation)

What's not so good about it?

The only thing that may put you off using this long term is the total lack of fragrance. I personally can get past it as the rest of my routine is pretty fragrance-heavy. There is no 'aaaahhhhhh' when you put it on the skin. It's functional. Not faffy. 

If it was a man it wouldn't be buying you a drink - it would just say 'Alrighty then off we go'.

How much is it?

£21.00 for 125ml. $28.00 in US.

I cannot recommend this cleanser highly enough. Everyone should have one. For those days when you want no faff, just function.

There are more Clinique recommendations to come. (For regular readers: I know. Who'd have thought?) From me.

Available from www.clinique.co.uk 

*Purchase.

Also: the US Clinique website says 'Follow with your Clinique 3 Step'. 

Do not do that.

I may be enjoying the ride on the Clinique train but I have not completely taken leave of my senses.

Hall of Fame - Hydraluron

Well I'm clearly a fussy cow. I haven't done a Hall of Fame in 9 months.

I've been using this for 3 days. Three days - and it's in the Hall of Fame. I think that's a bit of a world record. Even for me.

Ethos:
Manufactured by Indeed Labs whose objective is to 'eliminate all marketing hype and costs and deliver real results cost effectively'.

• World's first hyaluronic acid that is 100% free of animal derived raw materials and organic solvent remnants
• Paraben free
• Propylene glycol free
• Fragrance free
• Suitable for all skin types

The science:

Hyaluronic acid is found in the body and is responsible for maintaining a 'reservoir of water' in the top layers of the skin. We produce it ourselves but as we age our ability to do so decreases dramatically - one of the reasons we naturally lean towards dryer, baggier skin as we get older (how rude). 

Hyaluronic Acid is capable of absorbing up to 1000 times its weight in water. Basically it acts like a magnet to anything you put on top of it - so you apply this, put your moisturiser on - and it stays there - the water in your moisturiser takes longer to evaporate off the surface of the skin. 

It has a whole host of benefits throughout the body - but more importantly for me personally, a lack of hyaluronic acid in the skin leads to a slower healing time and a higher risk of bacteria on the surface of the skin - which for me, means acne. 

Acne that scars and won't heal (swine).

What's in it?

It being sold exclusively at Boots - the ingredients are obviously not listed on their website - something I've complained bitterly about for a long time.

As the print is fairly small I've re-typed below.

Water, Propanediol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ahnfeltia Concinna extract, Carbomer, Butylene Glycol, Disodium EDTA, Sodium hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol

What's good about it?

A lot actually.

• Not dressed up as some fancy ridiculously expensive serum
• Not full of rubbish
• Does what it says on the box
• Makes no fancy claims such as 'this is all you need' - they actually recommend using underneath your usual products
• Gives instantaneous feeling of moisture
• Plumps skin
• Makes skin super-soft
• Gives the skin a healthy glow
• Makes your other products last much longer as you use less of them

What's bad about it?

I want a bigger size and I'd like my picture on the tube with a big thumbs up like a geek.

That's about it.

Really.

Verdict:

Everyone should own this product. Everyone except pre-teens with that perfect baby bouncy skin.

Judging from the comments in my Clinic alone, 95% of you are dehydrated at some point or another.
Get one and keep it for when you need an extra boost. Post-partying, post-travel, post-illness, or all of them.

Worth checking out for people who:

• Are on medication and can't use much on their skin
• Use/have been using incorrect products (without knowing)
• Fly
• Use any kind of public transport
• Sit in an office with either air conditioning or heating
• Are stressed
• Don't have the perfect diet
• Have the audacity to enjoy alcohol

Teens/20+

Younger skins that are dehydrated through overuse of harsh foaming products, apricot kernels *god forbid*, partying, boozing, smoking, anything that puts stress on your skin - you need this in your emergency go-to stash. 

30+

Skin starting to look a little drab on occasion? Makeup sinking into your skin? A little Hydraluron under your moisturiser will fix all that.

40+++

Welcome to my world. I have no doubt your skin will be improved from using this product - unless... erm... unless you have a perfect diet, no stress at all in your life and have a facial every week. Not Gwyneth Paltrow? Buy it. (No offence Gwynnie but you get my drift)

I had a teeny tingle on the first use - lasted about 3 seconds and hasn't been back since.

You only need a little - it goes a long way. Use it where you feel dehydrated/dry/makeup usually fades the quickest - for me that's cheeks, entire nose area, jawline and lower brow line. 

Packaging - 5/5 - plenty of info on the box, nice soft poly tubing and a glorious pink

Texture - 5/5 - not sticky at all - which really surprised me. If it's sticky - you're using too much.

Performance - 5/5 - instant gratification, stays hydrated throughout the day

After effects on the skin - soft, smooth to the touch, visibly plumped (thus hydrated), looks healthier after one use

Hydraluron is £24.99 and is available from Boots. I've seen testers in store so you don't have to take my word for it. Go smear it all over your face. Tell them I sent you. And while you're at it - ask why they don't list ingredients on their website please?



*PR Sample - but I will be repurchasing. I have no business affiliations with Hydraluron whatsoever. 

Hall of Fame - Darphin Purifying Balm

If there was such a thing as a 'Church of Beauty' - I would surely worship at the altar of this product.

I first used this when I worked in SpaceNK in the 90's. I took a sample home (technically not allowed but we'll brush over that) when my skin had a couple of breakouts and was so impressed by the overnight results that I started selling it like hot cakes. Customers had similar reactions to the product and it has been a staple in my routine ever since.

What's in it?

A mini rant. Apologies about the quality of the above picture but I searched far and wide online to find the ingredients (for ease) and couldn't find them - anywhere. I was so annoyed I dug out my spare pot from the back of the cupboard and quickly fired this off.
Online retailers need to seriously up their game when it comes to ingredient listing - some do, most don't. I went to every single retailer of Darphin. No full inci. Infuriating. And what's even more annoying? The paid-for ads on google - that say 'Darphin Purifying Balm' - and then you click through to find they don't even SELL it. Sod off and stop wasting my time.

I've been inspired by this little episode to always show the inci listing on the product I am posting about - because clearly - there is a need. This is something that is regularly done by London Makeup Girl - the most ethical blogger out there. So Grace, *tips hat* - I'm joining you.

Right - now that's sorted - these are the key ingredients - to my mind..
Apricot Kernel Oil
Sunflower Seed Oil
Vegetable Oil
Beeswax
The above 4 form the base. Good, non-clogging oils - note the lack of mineral oil!

Sage Oil
Nutmeg Kernel Oil
Tea Tree Oil
Thyme Oil
Grapefruit Oil
Rosewood Oil
Balsam Oil
The above are just a few of the oils included and are by turn, decongesting and anti-bacterial.

What's good about it?
It does what it says on the box - The leaflet included in the product says 'ideal for combination to oily skin, prone to imperfections, with a dull, unhealthy appearance.' Personally I would argue with that. It may have been designed with that skin type in mind, but I find this works really well on all skin types. Sensitive, ageing, dry - it ticks every box.
It's not full of 'filler' ingredients - its fairly pure.
Smells beautiful - not vital, but important to me.
It lasts AGES - a little goes a long, long way.

Its worth mentioning two further things. Darphin do have another balm - Aromatic Renewing - I suspect this was released to cater for the older, dryer market in response to the popularity of the original Purifying. It's good, but I MUCH prefer Purifying Balm.
And - huge credit to Darphin here - since I first bought this product in the 90's they have made it completely organic. It's EcoCert certified and is now called Organic Aromatic Purifying Balm.

If your skin is dull, needs a little glow, is prone to impurities, oily, sensitive, dry - whatever: this product works. Highly - and always - recommended.

Darphin Organic Aromatic Purifying Balm is around £40.00 and is available at pretty much every major online retailer. ALL of whom need to start listing ingredients. On everything. I'll link to the ones that DO in future.
*huffs*

Hall of Fame - Absolute Must Have: Kate Somerville Goat Milk Cream

I love it when I stumble across a product that over-performs and becomes a staple in my skincare wardrobe.

This is one of those times.

I bought this in New York this Summer and have literally used it night and day since. It ran out yesterday morning (gutted - although it did remind me to blog about it) and I am DEFINITELY repurchasing.

When I bought it I thought it would be 'interesting' as it said it was for combination/sensitive skin and particularly good for acne. Well that Kate Somerville - she NO LIE.

What's in it?
Goat Milk - lactose being the key part of this inci - gently exfoliates but maintains the PH balance of the skin
Coconut and Jojoba - moisturising without clogging pores
Grape Seed for antioxidant purposes
Witch Hazel - anti-bacterial
Avocado - nourishing
Rosemary - anti-bacterial and toning
Neem - healing and anti-bacterial
Black Willow Bark - antimicrobial - same properties of salicylic acid which kills the germ specific to acne

What's good about it?
It works. Straight to the point I know, but it soothes redness so is suitable for sensitivity as well as acne-prone skins and is also cooling upon application.
The instances of red cyst-like acne lumps on my face almost ceased entirely. I had a couple show themselves at that time of the month but that was it.
Absorbs nicely. Skin feels comfortable with no residual tackiness.
Comes in a completely air-tight pump action pot that dispenses just the right amount and also stays germ-free.
AND.
It's 80% organic. Who knew?

What's bad about it?
Not widely available in the UK. Only available in selected SpaceNK stores.
The $ versus £ price is as per usual, favourable to buying in the USA.

That's it.

If you have redness, sensitivity, acne or combination skin, I highly, highly recommend this product.


Kate Somerville is available in selected SpaceNK stores and online at SpaceNK.co.uk and is £51.00 for 50ml.


Small print: no PR's were harmed during the making of this post. My money bought it and will repurchase it. Happily.

The Hall of Fame - Anne Semonin and the best facial I ever had....

I should have hated everything about my first Anne Semonin facial.

It was in Le Hotel Bristol in Paris - gorgeous settings...well no - not really, more like a building site at the time. The new spa was being built and there was scaffolding to contend with...
Polite, attentive staff - well, no not really - I'm not one for sweeping generalisations but there was no element of 'Entente Cordiale' on show...
Attentive staff.... well no, not really - my facialist kept leaving the room while my products 'did their work'.*

It looks like this now - not so much then!

But the results. Oh LORD the results.

The Anne Semonin was by far the best result I have ever had from a facial. They took my face to TASK.

It was layer after layer of cleansing, exfoliation, serums, masks, more serums, massage, everything I love. Had I not been so distracted by trying to be picky (not so much a bad habit as what I am paid to do) and find fault I would have remembered more of the processes involved. Anyway, so impressed was I with the results that I left the spa (I was not staying at the hotel - hello??) and didn't apply any makeup for the rest of the day in case I spoiled my face. It was THAT good. Plump, full, bouncy, hydrated fabulous skin. And it lasted.

By the time I got back to London I had the Anne Semonin bug and made an appointment to see the legendary Ewa Berkmann in Claridges. This woman is the Rolls-Royce of facialists.
Some people put their names on waiting lists for handbags.
I hunt down renowned facialists in a quest to learn anything I can from them and feel 'the hands'. I have felt most 'hands' in the business. It's research. What's not to love? Ewa is one of the two top 'hands' I have ever had the pleasure of being treated (pummelled) by - the other is Michelle Roques O'Neil who is the same as Ewa - but for the body.

What was an amazing treatment in Paris, was elevated to another level of brilliance by Ewa. I was in that room for over two hours. She cleansed, exfoliated, steamed, treated, masked, serumed the living bejesus out of my face. I literally fell in and out of consciousness - and still did not want to get up when she was done.

The Anne Semonin range is based on 'the belief the most effective beauty products and treatments are based on a combination of a personal, made to measure prescription and a holistic approach'. I'm of the same thinking that a great massage and a lot of layering of serums and oils does your skin the world of good. The joy of the range is that you can address any problem by mixing trace elements and essential oils to maximise potency and address issues as they arise. And they do address the issues. In this case I would recommend even the seasoned skincare pro takes advice from the Semonin team before selecting products - it's a big range and they can suggest concoctions that may not occur to you.

So the Anne Semonin is in the Hall of Fame. And deservedly so.

And you don't have to take my word for it - if you want to try it for yourself Anne Semonin has two facial weeks coming up at Liberty in London. The first one is from 1st-7th May. Facials are £50 redeemable against any two purchases of Anne Semonin on the day. It may not be Hotel Le Bristol but it's the same product and the same training - get yourself down there - I am.

Anne Semonin is available at Liberty. For appointments call the counter on 0207 734 1234 ext 2156.

*In fairness to the current team my first facial was a long time ago!