Friday 17 June 2011

Eyelash Enhancements - The Good, the Bad and the Ugly


Celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lopez, Christina Aguilera and Lady GaGa are just a few stars who are well-known for their outrageous eyelashes. These women have set the trends for false eyelashes and never miss a beat – however sometimes eyelash enhancements can take a turn for the worse.

Britney Spears’ infamous 2006 Today Show interview with Matt Lauer had people buzzing, especially when her false eyelashes began to fall off mid-interview! According to Barbara Rattigan, founder of Shavasana Eyelash Extensions, “Applying beautiful, sexy lashes is truly an art. Just like applying make up to the face lashes can transcend your look to a new level. Lashes can provide you with a youthful appearance and lift the eye in all the right places.” Below, Barbara offers pointers on how to “lash out” the right way:

There are two types of lash applications we can look at – Eyelash Extensions and False lashes. False lashes are applied by you or a makeup professional for a one day look. Eyelash Extensions will last you for months with touch ups. There are many must Do’s and please Don’ts in the lashing world.

The Do’s of False Eyelashes
Cut the strip to fit the shape of your eye
Use a flare lash to add dimensions and volume on the outer corner of the lash line
Apply mascara lightly to the lashes previous to applying the false lash
Use eye liner over the top of the lash line to blend the false lash and the natural lash line

The Don’ts of False Eyelashes
Don’t rush your false lash application. Make sure to blow the adhesive completely dry. The strip could fall out and when you least expect it.
Don’t go too long or too thick unless it’s Halloween or you’re channeling your inner Gaga.

When planning to get lash extensions you really are depending on the advice and consult of the Eyelash Extension Specialist. Choosing your professional is important. Make sure these are the Rules and Regulations your Salon/Spa professional follows.

Proper placement of the extensions can add dimension and fullness to your lashes while creating a youthful appearance to your eyes by lifting the lid in all the right places. Just like a proper brow shaping, proper lash placement can change your entire appearance. Applying good lash extensions is truly an art. Consultation is a must.

Do’s for Eyelash Extensions
Do choose an appropriate length and thickness to match your natural lash. This is an extension to your natural lash. . Contrary to what we see often in the media: overdone lashes can make you look tired and cheap. You want to look naturally blessed with amazing lashes. To the untrained eye impossible to differentiate real from fake. Too thick, too long lashes can harden your look.
Do soften up on your make up. Lash Extensions will add a lot of definition your lash line. Heavy liners or dark shadows could be too strong for the eyes to carry.
Do follow your maintenance schedule for touch up appointments. An overdue lash appointment can look messy and unruly. Fill in your lashes with mascara until you can make your next appointment. Make sure to only use water soluble mascara that is safe to use with your lash extensions.

Don’ts for Eyelash Extensions
Not looking age appropriate is the most common mistake made in eyelash extensions. Lashes that are too thick or too long can actually age you. The extensions should accentuate your lashes and lift the eye up, not pull it down. If you are young, tight faced, with no wrinkles around the eyes and stunningly beautiful you can really rock the over the top. If you’re like the majority of women, you will need a professional consultation to figure out the best look for your face.
Don’t go into your appointment guns blazing. Asking for the thickest and longest lashes available probably isn’t going to be your best look. Your extensions should extend your naturals but not double them in length. The thickness is supposed to match your natural eyelash and adding volume can be done by building thicker lashes on the top rows.

Don’t assume the bigger the better. “The bigger the lash the bigger my eyes will look” thought is not true when it comes to lash extensions. Super long and extra thick extensions can actually make your eyes look smaller. Too thick eyelashes can weigh down your lashes covering your eyes. Too long can create the illusion of a sunken eye. Lashes that shape your lash line correctly will open your eyelid and emphasize the color of your eyes making them look bigger.

Remember: lash extensions should accentuate your eyes. You want people to say you have the most beautiful lashes not the most beautiful extensions.

About Shavasana Eyelash Extensions
Launched in 2005 Shavasana is a leading eyelash extensions company and one of the first to offer professional products and training in the procedure of eyelash extensions. The Shavasana Eyelash Extensions procedure is a semi-permanent treatment to add length and volume to the eyelash line by the addition of extensions to your own natural lashes. Shavasana Eyelash Extensions are available nationwide at select spas and salons. For a complete list of Shavasana professionals, please visit http://www.eyelash-extensions.com/find-professional-eyelash-extensions.php. Shavasana also offers a wide range of eyelash enhancing retail products for purchase at select spas and salons, and www.eyelash-extensions.com.

Turn To The Dark Side With Scandalous Ravishing Radiance Colour!


Since arriving on our screens the statement, Californian golden locks have been their trademark look, but AnnaLynne McCord and Shenae Grimes have both unveiled a deep chocolate brown do’ and we LOVE it!

To copy the Scandalous style change from light to dark hues, like AnnaLynne and Shenae, keep in mind these key colour changing rules:

- Take into consideration your skin tone and eye colour and ask friends for honest advice
- Be particularly careful when changing your colour at home. Remember to put the protein back into locks after it has been stripped out so they remains lustrous and beautiful
- It’s easier to change your colour from light to dark, so if you’re in two minds, don’t count on being able to change back to blonde immediately!

The Scandalous Ravishing Radiance Colour Care Shampoo and Conditioner (£4.99) are deeply intensive moisturisers, to refresh and revitalise coloured hair. The luxuriously thick formulas, enriched with Sunflower extract and Vitamin E will help to repair the damage and drying effects that colouring can cause . . . keeping colour vibrant and hair in fantastic condition.

Scandalous Ravishing Radiance Colour Care Shampoo and Conditioner are priced at £4.99 and available exclusively to Superdrug and www.superdrug.com

Introducing the ‘Beauty Collection’ - A Set of Limited Edition Nail Polishes Exclusively from Dove & nails inc


Introducing the ‘Beauty Collection’, a set of gorgeous, limited edition nail polishes exclusively from Dove & nails inc

To celebrate the launch of new Dove Beauty Finish deodorant, Dove has teamed up with nails inc to is give away one of two gorgeous, limited edition nail polishes free with any two Dove deodorants* purchased at selected Boots stores while stocks last.


The shades in Dove’s exclusive ‘Beauty Collection’ take their names from colourful Latino cities, bringing their hot, summery vibe straight to your fingertips. Like new Dove Beauty Finish deodorant, they’re the perfect finishing touch to any look this summer.

· Taking inspiration from the colour pop on S/S 2011 catwalks, ‘Copacabana’ is a vibrant coral that’s perfect for summer and bang on trend

· ‘Havana’ is a creamy pale pink that will look perfect with sun-kissed skin and this season’s on-trend pastels


Enriched with a pearlescent beauty mineral known to enhance the natural look and feel of skin, new Dove Beauty Finish deodorant includes effective protection and ¼ moisturising cream, making it this summer’s essential finishing touch.

The Dove ‘Beauty Collection’ is available in selected Boots stores nationwide between 15th June and 12th July 2011. And with each nail polish worth £11 RRP, why not bag the collection?


* Roll-on in 50ml, RRP £2.24, aerosol in 250ml, RRP £3.44, and in 150ml, RRP £3.20.

Friday 10 June 2011

Kate's Timeless Elegance..


Back on top the newly appointed Duchess Of Cambridge has done nothing but wow us with her fabulous style over recent weeks & yet again she dazzled everyone as she attended the Absolute Return for Kids Gala. Wearing a beautiful full length sparkling dress by Jenny Packman (a favourite of Angelina Jolie), she stole the show looking effortlessly elegant!
Kate famously applied her own make-up for her wedding day & appears to have perfected her trademark smokey eyes, to steal her look try a mixture of charcoal & taupe shadows, try out Mac's 'Satin Taupe' eyeshadow, a universal shade to suit everybody!
Also to get that gorgeous glow Kate always has to her complexion go for Mac Creme Blush in 'Ladyblush' then sweep over a powder blush to set off the colour, try Nars blush in 'Orgasm'.

Hot Summer Trends - Nail Art!


Nails are hot news this summer as nail art has become the latest celebrity inspired trend, from the likes of Lady Gaga to Jessie J. Now you can bring the nail bar to you and update your style with the 17 Nail Bar in a Bag gift, free when you purchase two or more 17 products in-store or online at www.boots.com between 15th June - 12th July.

So bring out your inner artist and customise your nails with unique designs, using four nail art essentials for fabulous fingertips:
- 17 Lasting Fix Nail Polish in Pink Grapefruit

- 17 Lasting Fix Nail Polish in Knockout Red

- 17 Mini Pink and Leopard Print Heart-shaped Nail Transfers

- 17 Hot Pink and Black Leopard Print Nail File

Summer is the time to play with colour so give your manicure an overhaul and experiment with 17 Nail Art for a fashionable fierce finish!

www.boots.com

Tuesday 7 June 2011

Get that Summer Glow & Stay Safe In The Sun With Lee Staffords's Fake My Tan Range


Tracking down the ultimate fake tan to deliver the perfect caramel glow is like the search for the holy-grail. The promise of a natural looking sun kissed tan often ends in a disappointing, patchy, streaky, orange mess that is far from glamorous. Finally we can now call off the search, thanks to Lee Stafford and his Fake My Tan range – the temporary, instant fake tan range. No more streaks, no more tanning mistakes just a gorgeous natural looking olive tan!

All six products in the Fake My Tan range have been designed with a prescriptive approach using two different shades – light to medium and dark so there is a shade that is perfect for everyone! Fake My Tan is made up of a collection of sprays, matt lotions and mousses with gorgeous olive undertones for an ultra natural effect. Not only does it give an incredible olive colour, but it has also been created to complement any existing skincare regimes by using ingredients that enhance, moisturise and care for skin.

Lee says:
“the perfect addition to gorgeous hair is beautifully bronzed skin, so now, my wash-off instant tan range; Fake My Tan gives you top-to-toe glamour that’s sure to brighten up the greyest of days. Each product comes in two shades, light to medium and dark, for a flawless skin tone match to create the most perfect fake tan yet.”

· Magic Potion Tanning Lotion for face and body £6.99
· Brown My Bits Tanning Spritz for face and body £7.99
· Just One Use Tanning Mousse for face and body £8.99
· Lee Stafford Fake my Tan is available exclusively at Superdrug nationwide

Wednesday 1 June 2011

Terminal Summer Beauty!!


British women will lose over £10,000,000 worth of liquid products this summer, with beauty products topping the list, by failing to meet airport regulations. Holidaymakers still unaware of what is allowed through security controls, lose a total of 3,823,429 items every year.

New research released today by QVC, one of the world's leading television and online retailers, reveals that since liquid security restrictions have been in place in the UK, British women have lost over 3,228,332 litres of liquid essentials.

Top confiscated items include perfumes, suncreams and deodorants with one in three (30 per cent) women naming losing beauty items to the security dustbin as one of their biggest summer annoyances.

Product exploding in suitcases or forgetting a key beauty item at home also gets British women flustered on their holidays and over two thirds of women (68 per cent) leave unused product behind at the end of the holiday in order to save space in their case.

Nearly half of women (47 per cent) admit to not being certain of current airport restrictions and over a third (39 per cent) claim to 'risk' taking products through security knowing they could be thrown away.

Sue Leeson from QVC comments:
'Strict airport security measures can prove problematic sometimes but they are in place for a valid reason. We sell many dedicated travel sets at this time of year which are perfect for shorter breaks as they take up less space and weight with many suitable for transporting in your hand luggage too. If you're planning a longer getaway and want to take full size items with you, products with screw caps tend to leak less. Even if you're convinced your products are air tight, I'd still recommend packing all your beauty essentials into a separate plastic bag within your main luggage to avoid any nasty surprises when you touch down."

Holidaying costs over a third of British women (33 per cent) twice what they expect in terms of shopping, with nearly half (46 per cent) admitting to losing key products that they have to re-buy abroad or in departures.

Nearly half (45 per cent) of British women say they are unsure how to pack beauty items and three quarters (74 per cent) worry about whether they have forgotten something vital. Rather than 'don't forget your toothbrush', the top items that women worried about forgetting were suncream, deodorant and moisturiser.

Advice from the Department for Transport about travelling with liquids:
Wherever possible you should pack liquids in your hold baggage, as there are restrictions on the amount you can take in your hand baggage. Liquids include:
. all drinks, including water, soup and syrups . cosmetics and toiletries, including creams, lotions, oils, perfumes, mascara and lipsticks . sprays, including shaving foam, hairspray and spray deodorants . pastes, including toothpaste . gels, including hair and shower gel . contact lens solution . any other solutions and items of similar consistency

If you need certain liquids during the flight, you can take them into the cabin in limited quantities as follows:
. containers must hold no more than 100ml . containers must be carried in a single, transparent, re-sealable plastic bag, which holds no more than a litre and measures approximately 20cm x 20cm . contents must fit comfortably inside the bag so it can be sealed . the bag must not be knotted or tied at the top . each passenger can carry only one of these bags . the bag must be presented for examination at the airport security point . Containers larger than 100ml (excluding essential medicines) will not be allowed through the security point even if they are only part full.

You are allowed to carry essential medicines of more than 100ml in your hand baggage, but you will need:
. prior approval from the airline and departure airport . supporting documentation from a relevant qualified medical professional (eg a letter from your doctor or prescription) . Remember to take only what you need for your journey. Extra supplies and larger containers of medicine can go in your hold baggage.


About QVC:
. QVC is one of the world's leading online and TV shopping channels . To view the full range of product available from QVC, please visit www.qvcuk.com or tune in to Freeview channel 16, Sky digital channel 640, Virgin TV channel 740 or Freesat channel 800.

New Tantasia from jane iredale®


Imagine a world where the perfect tan is always at your fingertips. A world where you never have to worry about streaks on your skin, or unsightly marks on your towels. A world where sunless technology first senses, then enhances, your skin’s most flattering shade and with frequent use, builds a deep lasting tan.

Tantasia, from jane iredale, makes sun-kissed, seductive colour available to you at any time of the year in an easy, safe and moisturising formula that suits all skin types and that can be applied anywhere on the face or body.

No extra moisturiser is needed because the wheat protein provides natural hydration, there is no after-smell and the formulation contains a refreshing citrus scent.

There are four key ingredients in Tantasia that create a natural looking, long lasting tan:

• Acetyl Tyrosine & Monk’s Pepper (vitex agnus castus) stimulate melanin synthesis, allowing the shade to mimic your natural tanned colour. Acetyl Tyrosine accelerates the colouring response, while the beta-endorphin-like effect of Monk’s Pepper leads to melanin formation, with or without sun exposure*.

• Copper Gluconate is an enzymatic bio-activator, providing an additional source of tyrosine delivery to increase a more even colour.

• Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is bonded to a vegetable natural amino acid compound. Advanced technology, using an amino acid that interacts with the skin’s proteins, activates a beautifully natural- appearing, intense colour change. When spread evenly, enzymes in the epidermis break down the amino acid which combines with the DHA for instant colour, compensating for any shade differences in skin areas.

Repeat applications daily until a golden tan has been achieved, then use it as frequently as you need to maintain colour.

Tantasia retails for £24.

For more information about the jane iredale range of mineral cosmetics, made without fillers, fragrance, chemical dyes or synthetic preservatives call 020 8450 7111, or go to www.janeiredale.com.

Gillette Venus Goddess (Dance Routine!)

Smooth legs all round, check out the fab new video for Gillette Venus Goddess (Venus Goddess Dance Routine By Tyce Diorio)