Pure Beauty - The Lichfield Beauty Salon

Fantastic Treatments in a fabulous salon with only the best Products and the very Best Beauty Therapists!
 

How to keep your cool this Christmas

www.pexels.comIt’s meant to be a time for giving and loving, but let’s face it, Christmas can be hard going and those closest to you can make it even more demanding.

We’ve had a look at how you can stay merry and bright all Christmas long whatever your family and friends throw at you.

Budgets
When it comes to giving gifts, we should really think about the thought that has gone into them, rather than the amount of money that has been spent. If you’re worried a relative may be offended by the value of your gifts, then explain honestly that you’ve spent what you can afford and that thought has gone into your choices and you hope they like what you’ve chosen for them. To save blushes, decide with people what the gift budget is going to be, or you could have a Secret Santa so you all buy one present and that can make it fair for all of you.

Invitation overload
You’ll be invited to more than one party during the Christmas season, so how do you decide where to go and who to say yes to. One way is to accept invitations in the order you receive them, because swapping could be seen as bad manners and if you do duck out, watch what reason you give and what you then post on social media.

Last minute friends and family visiting, or an essential work event can be valid reasons for changing your mind when you have said yes to something, but think about how you would feel if someone shunned you and you found out via Facebook.

Party charm
There is a lot of pressure to be someone you aren’t at Christmas and you might feel as if you need to be super social rather than then sensible, smart person you are. The best plan is to be you, to keep the drinking down to a minimum, remember not to gossip and leave at a good time so you can make it into work the next day.

Delegate
If you are sick and tired of being left to do it all, then this year, do it differently. Make a list of everything that needs to be done, and the people who can help, and this can involve your children too. Talk things over, give everyone a chance to have a say and then divide the jobs out and you won’t feel like you are doing all the giving and the rest of the family are taking.

Family antics
We all know that families can be hard work, so don’t be fooled by glossy images on Instagram – no one is perfect. Look at who wants to see you, who needs to stay, where people want to meet and then set out your plans and arrangements. If you have guests, set a time for them to arrive, and leave, ensure that there are planned activities, budgets for presents and if need be, say that you are going somewhere on their departure date and therefore will say goodbye to them then.

Say thank you
If someone has given you a present, dropped off a homemade cake, had you for dinner or invited you to drinks, then make sure you say thank you. Yes, you can text, but a handwritten card will mean so much more to them, and might make you feel good too.

Take time out for you
Once a day, do something for you. Go for a run, drink a hot cuppa and watch the TV or have a bath, but if you carve out sometime for you, you will be less stressed, feel less put upon and have the chance to recharge before the next present opening session starts.

Whatever you do, have a happy Christmas.

Team Pure Beauty

How to get party perfect hair

www.pexels.comWe often spend a lot of time deciding what to wear to the office party or client drinks at Christmas, but our hair can get overlooked, and this can let us down. We have some simple tips that will ensure your hair looks as fabulous as you feel this festive season.

Don’t wash it every day
You might think your hair needs to be washed every day, maybe washed more than once if you are going out, but it doesn’t. Yes, that just out of the shower freshness is great, but shiny locks can be flyaway and hard to manage, so let things go a day or two and you’ll find it settles down and it’s easier to put up as well!

Part at the middle 
Middle partings might take you back to school and the Girl Guides, but this basic move can be your saving grace. To get the best results, brush your hair and get out any knots and tangles, then when you have a smooth head of hair, go to the middle and divide with a comb. Clean, modern, simple.

Super straight
For chic, timeless glamour, go for a super straight look. The best way to get this right is to use straighteners on hair that hasn’t been washed for a day, or two. Give your hair a comb and before you style it, dampen it with a little water, add a heat protection product, then glide down each section from root to tip. Blast with hairspray and if you have a fringe, be sure you give this the same treatment. Christmas class right there.

Slick it back
Popular with celebrities, the slick backed look can earn you some serious style points as it’s sultry and radiates glamour. You need to start by blow-drying your hair to give it extra lift and then use a foam mousse for hold. While serum will offer shine, gel combed through your hair will give you that Hollywood look. As we said, this isn’t for everyone, so do a trial run and see how you go, but we think you might be surprised at how much you love it.

Stylish, sleek ponytail
When in doubt, go up! A ponytail is super simple, it works with any outfit and can get you out of trouble, fast. Start by creating a middle parting, then smooth your hair with straighteners so there are no fly away strands upsetting the party. Then, pull back your hair into a low ponytail and secure with a band before straightening each section of the ponytail or go for a curl if you wish. Fast and full marks.

Top knot 
If you’re looking for something cute, the top knot gets our vote. A hassle-free top knot can work in the day and it’ll make you look super glam on the dance floor. To get started, you need a ponytail that is split into two sections that you simply twist in opposite directions to create a knot on the top of your head. This isn’t a fierce look, so keep some hair free to frame your face, and if you want, you can curl these for a softer style. For added luxe, use a hairspray with glitter and shine, a swipe of red lipstick and you’re ready to party.

Wave the night away
Last but not least, why not impress with red carpet waves when it comes to party hair? Wavy hair will give you healthy looking, long-lasting ripples of luxury that will look perfect with velvet and gold. Take damp sections of hair and twist and wrap around hot tongs, apply hair spray and if it doesn’t go as planned, you can scoop it up into a ponytail and still look sensational.

Have fun!

Team Pure Beauty

Keep Control of Christmas Breakouts with Dermalogica

Keep Control of Christmas Breakouts with Dermalogica
Photo by Hamburger Arts on Unsplash

When it comes to the Christmas period it’s not unusual for our skin to struggle with the huge amounts of indulgence that we all partake in. Breakouts are one of the most common ways for our skin to react, which means dealing with redness pimples and areas of oiliness or sensitivity. However, this doesn’t have to be a complete disaster around the party season. There are plenty of ways to prevent breakouts before they happen and get control of them if you are unlucky enough to suffer one, when you want your skin to be looking great. Here are suggestions of five great products that you can use to control breakouts over the Christmas period so that your skin doesn’t let you down when you want to look your best.

Dermalogica Clearing Skin Wash

Keeping your skin clean and free from things which will cause spots to develop, and irritation to occur, is the most important part of a breakout free skin routine, so starting your day with Dermalogica Clearing Skin Wash is essential. It helps to control breakouts of spots, blackheads, excess oil and other issues which lead to uneven skin. It contains salicylic acid as well as as a several natural antiseptics such as balm mint, eucalyptus and tea tree, which leave the skin clean, clear and properly prepped for other skin clearing treatments.

Dermalogica Age Bright Clearing Serum

It’s not just young people who have to deal with breakouts, and even those of us with ageing skin will have to suffer the odd pimple every now and again. This serum from Dermalogica is a multi-functional product which contains salicylic acid to reduce breakouts, as well as accelerating cell turnover to reduce the signs of skin aging. It’s the perfect product for keeping your skin in looking youthful and blemish free.

Dermalogica Dermal Clay Cleanser

If you want to get ahead of the curve when it comes to keeping your skin free from impurities then using a cleanser which will remove excess oil and deep cleanse the skin is the way to go. This cleanser from Dermalogica uses kaolin and green clays which will lift away spot-causing sebum, while using calming cucumber and sage to soothe any irritation that your skin might be suffering, limiting the chances of a breakout.

Dermalogica Breakout Clearing Booster

If you are unlucky enough to suffer from a breakout over the Christmas period this skin clearing booster from dermalogica can help to get your skin back to normal within 15 minutes. it contains bacteria killing ingredients which work with the skin to minimise the appearance of spots while preventing over drying and soothing irritation.

Dermalogica Overnight Clearing Gel

Using a product which is applied to the skin overnight is a great idea at this time of year, as it gives your skin a chance to heal while you’re sleeping. This clearing gel is designed to help clear skin congestion and contains complex of vitamins and other ingredients which inhibit the growth of bacteria and stimulate the skins natural healing process. It also contains salicylic acid to get rid of pore clogging skin cells and tea tree oil which is a natural antiseptic.

Five of Our Favourite Decleor Products

Five of Our Favourite Decleor Products
Photo by Logan Weaver on Unsplash

Here at Pure Beauty, we’re always adding new products to our shelves from the brands that we stock and it doesn’t take long for us to fall in love with many of them. Decleor is a brand in which we have ultimate faith, and their products are something we’ve been passionate about since we opened our doors. With that in mind, we thought we’d showcase some of our favourite new products from Decleor, so that you can try them for yourselves and fall in love as we have:

Decleor Neroli Bigarade Gradual Glow Lotion

At this time of year when the sun is in hiding and your skin feels dull, getting an extra boost from a gradual tanner can really make you feel better. Decleor Neroli Bigarade Gradual Glow Lotion s A gradual glow moisturiser with a light, melting texture that is easily absorbed into the skin and offers a beautifully natural sun-kissed look from the first application. It harnesses the power of narcissus bulb to help prolong a natural or fake tan and preserve the skin’s youthful appearance.

Decleor Antidote Serum

This serum from Decleor is a wonderful little potion, derived from 97% natural ingredients. It contains a high concentration of hyaluronic acid which strengthens the skin’s barrier and protects it from daily aggressions, such as pollution. It firms the face and leaves the skin soft and comfortable, immediately after application and all day long.

Decleor Neroli Bigarade Oil Mask

This mask offers skin a textural treat, as it melt sinto a fine oil upon application to the skin. This allows the active ingredients to be efficiently absorbed into the skin, where they provide plumping and firming properties. In just 10 minutes, skin is left beautifully hydrated and fresh, making this the perfect product for restoring comfort, suppleness and radiance to the skin.

Decleor Essential Cleansing Milk

This cleansing milk from Decleor may just seem like a simple lotion to remove your make up, but it’s so much more than that. Active ingredients include detoxifying green tea essential water to help remove dirt and tighten pores for a clearer, more radiant complexion, sweet almond oil to leave skin beautifully soft and comfortable, and heavenly-fragranced neroli essential oil to help protect, repair and fight against dehydration.

Decleor Neroli Bigarade Night Balm

If you’re in the market for a night cream which is made from 100% natural ingredients, then look no further than this one from Decleor. This balm hydrates and nourishes the skin at night when it’s most effective for cell renewal and when smoothed onto the face, an amazingly light and gentle sensation dissolves perfectly into the skin. It’s potent enough to hydrate and help repair very dry skin types.

How to heal a hangover

www.pexels.comWhen it comes to drinking, it’s all about damage limitation, on many levels. While it’s good to go out and have fun, too much alcohol can leave you with an empty wallet, splitting headache, dull skin, and a feeling sick is part of the hangover fun too.

Wherever you are this party season and whatever you do, stay safe and we hope our top hangover tips will help you look and feel better, sooner.

Get some water
You need to rehydrate when you have a hangover, so go for water if you can. Juice or squash work too, and if things really did get out of hand, head for the Dioralyte.

Spritz your skin
Booze will batter your skin, but using a face spritz can really help. Keep it in the fridge and it will help freshen things up when you aren’t feeling so bright. And, don’t forget to always take your make up off before you go to bed.

Get juiced!
Resist glugging back a coke to quash that queasy feeling, and enjoy a natural nutrient blast, instead. In the morning make a smoothie made with banana, blueberries, kiwi, flaxseed, cinnamon and avocado. A mix like this will ensure a supply of vitamins and help balance your blood sugar levels again, and hopefully you will start to feel more human again.

Avoid coffee
You might want coffee when you can’t get out of bed, but because caffeine narrows your blood vessels and boosts blood pressure, a latte can make a hangover feel so much worse, not better. It’s also a diuretic and will dehydrate you further, so sip green tea as it’s packed with the healthy antioxidants your body needs to recover.

Shower the pain away
We aren’t saying this will fix the problem, but a shower will make you feel more human and clean away the night before. If you choose a shower gel that is packed with essential oils, the energising scent will make you feel more awake, it’ll boost your senses and sooth tired, dry skin.

Fake it
If you have to go into work and look as bad as you feel, you can give your skin a helping hand by opting for a dewy base. Go for a foundation or tinted moisturiser that hydrates and illuminates your skin, and if you really want to keep looking good, fake tan is a festive skin saviour.

Make it red
You might have gone for gold on the dance floor, but it you want to win medals at work the next day, get in early and wear red lipstick. A pop of vibrant red lipstick will make tired eyes look less tired and drained skin will seem less dull. So, put on a smile and let the red do the talking.

Don’t party every night
The temptation might be to go out all of December, but that won’t do you any good. Try to have a couple for nights at home, and always drink a glass of water, or two, between those potent cocktails and fizzy fizz, and a couple more before bed.

Got a trick we need to know about? Let us know, we are all ears.

Team Pure Beauty

Why apple cider vinegar is hot right now

www.pexels.comWhile your mind might be on mulled wine and cocktails, apple cider vinegar might be something to consider in the run up to Christmas.

Used medicinally and therapeutically for centuries, it is made from apple juice that is fermented into apple cider, and fermented again to become apple cider vinegar.
Your skin, hair, house, and even your pets could benefit from a little raw, organic, unfiltered, apple cider vinegar and this how.

Healthy stomach
The fermentation process encourages the growth of healthy gut bacteria, so drinking apple cider can help with digestion, boost the immune system, and even positively affect mental health. It is also worth noting that as well as probiotics, it also contains anti-viral, anti-yeast and anti-fungal goodness which can make your stomach smile.

Blood sugar control
As you munch on chocolates and salty snacks, you may get a blood sugar crash, but apple cider vinegar can help balance things before they get too out of hand. Sipping a little before dinner may well help keep you on track help and if you aim for three meals and healthy snacks rather than grabbing the selection box for breakfast, you will feel better for it.

Keep weight under control
If you have heard of apple cider vinegar it might have been to do with weight loss. The full facts aren’t 100% but researchers believe it can suppress your appetite, so
add two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to a glass of water and sip it throughout the day.

Hair care
A lot of shampoos are alkaline, which can topple your hair’s pH levels and cause dry ends, but using apple cider vinegar is the perfect post-shampoo rinse to restore balance, and boost body and shine.  Mix ½ a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with a cup of cold water, and run the solution through your hair after shampooing.

Use it as a cleaner
Yes, we know we said drink it, but the anti-bacterial properties in apple cider vinegar mean you can use to clean the house and it will make everything from the kitchen worktops to the shower, shine. Mix ½ a cup of apple cider vinegar with one cup of water, and get cleaning. Microwaves, kitchen surfaces, windows, glasses, and mirrors will love it, it can also be used in dishwashers as a substitute for detergent and if you leave it the loo overnight, it’ll be like new the next day.

Wash your food
Washing your fresh fruits and veggies with apple cider vinegar will not only make them safe to eat, but give them an extra dose of bacteria-fighting powers and if you mix in lemon juice, it’ll be even better.

Flea free pets
Fleas apparently don’t like the smell or taste of vinegar so think about spraying one-part apple cider vinegar and one-part water on your pet’s fur and rubbing it in generously. Repeat once a month, and you might be surprised at the results.

So, what are you waiting for, now is the time to make apple cider vinegar a part of your life.

Team Pure Beauty

Now is the Time to Tackle Hyperpigmentation

Now is the Time to Tackle Hyperpigmentation
Photo by Azamat Zhanisov on Unsplash

Hyperpigmentation is a problem which affects many people here in the UK. It’s estimated that 2% of people worldwide will have some issue with pigmentation, regardless of race, which might not sound like a lot, but that actually equates to over 150 million people!

Hyperpigmentation can be caused by scarring, some medical conditions, genetic conditions and other things besides, and summer is the worst time for it as it is exacerbated by the sunshine. Now that winter is here and the sun is at its weakest (although don’t be fooled into thinking that you don’t need an SPF – you still do, every day!), it’s a great time to try to get a handle on skin discolouration so we’ve put together a few tips to help you to get your skin tone back to even.

Retinols

Retinols are one of the best ingredients to grab in the fight against hyperpigmentation. This is because they work to increase cell turnover, stimulate collagen and elastin production, fade hyperpigmentation, and help skin stay hydrated and glowing without irritation. Jan Marini Age Intervention Retinol Plus Mask is a highly concentrated mask, containing retinols, which will dramatically improve the appearance of dark spots.

Night Cream

Take advantage of night time treatments for hyperpigmentation as this is the very best time to tackle the problem. Provided you don’t live somewhere that the sun shines for 2 hours a day, taking the time to treat your skin when it’s dark outside means it won’t have to fight twice as hard to heal itself. Invest in Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair, which accelerates skin renewal and helps reduces the appearance of dark spots.

Serums

Serums are often the most powerful, potent products that a company will offer, packing maximum effects into one potion. Hyperpigmentation can be tricky to tackle, so opting for something which packs a punch will do your skin the biggest favours. Dermalogica C-12 Pure Bright Serum is a silky-rich, highly potent treatment that absorbs quickly to optimise efficacy.

Sunscreen

We know we mentioned this above but it cannot be said enough – using an SPF is THE single most important think you can do to halt the effects of hyperpigmentation. Many people are under the impression that we only have to wear sunscreen when it’s warm outside, but the sun can do damage all year round, especially if you have issue with dark spots. Decleor Ultra Protective Anti-Wrinkle Cream SPF50 Face will give excellent protection while also attacking the signs of ageing.

How to get party fresh beauty Christmas

www.pexels.comEver looked in the mirror after a long day at work and wished you didn’t have to apply yet more make-up for the office drinks or yet another client dinner?

Us too.

The thing is, the run up to Christmas is busy and demands on your time, and skin, are real, so it is vital to get the basics right.

Think about your diet
Eating well can help to keep wrinkles at bay, make your skin firmer and give it that holiday glow. Nuts, oats, oily fish like salmon and tuna as well as berries, spinach and oranges all come with skin loving vitamins and nutrients that will give you a natural boost, and if you drink at least eight glasses of water a day too, you’ll be laughing. We know that happy hour is tempting but keeping your cocktail count under control and alternating booze with water, as well as getting some downtime and decent sleep, will help you to get the skin you want from breakfast to bedtime.

Cleanse, tone and moisturise
Nothing new here, we know that, but this is one of the best things you can do morning and night if you want to look and feel great in your own skin. You don’t have to spend a fortune, there are some excellent products out there for all budgets, but by following this three-step regime you ensure your skin is clean and hydrated which eases the fine lines and dry patches that even the best Snapchat filter can’t erase.

Add a primer
You might not want to have too many layers of products on your skin, but a primer can be your saving grace on the dance-floor and in all those Christmas selfies! As well as helping your make-up to last longer, the right primer can give you an added moisture boost, so your skin is hydrated, and fine lines are eased.

Exfoliate
If you want snow smooth skin, we suggest you exfoliate it once or twice a week. Find a product which suits your skin and as it washes away those dulling, dead skin cells that can make you look tired and grey, you will be left looking healthy and revitalised. Be careful with the delicate skin around the eyes as this is thin, super sensitive and easy to irritate or damage.

Redo on the run
We hate to break it to you, but make-up fixes with your fingers just won’t cut it when it comes to festive fun. If you have a big night coming up straight after work, carry brushes and sponges with you as well as sample sizes of your regular products and you won’t regret it. Not only will this keep your complexion clear as you will be stopping bacteria and dirt spreading from your hands to your face, but it will give you a smooth, even base and adding a little of your moisturiser to your foundation will give you a soft, dewy finish.

Have a highlighter handy
If you want to brighten up your skin before that last-minute Chrimbo date, but don’t have time for a full make-over, then a highlighter is a hero product waiting to save the day, and a slick of gloss will help too.

Light up your lids
It’s not just Christmas trees that look good with lights on you know! While many people favour the smoky eye, lighter, neutral tones don’t smudge and crease as much, so your overall look will be fresher and more stylish. Go for a shimmery eye shadow and blend across your lid with a slightly darker tone, then vamp it up with a volume blasting black mascara and festive red lipstick.

Go pro
Between parties and cocktails, why not book into your local salon for a relaxing facial and you will leave with a glow and a smile in time for the next event.

Team Pure Beauty

Top Facial Hair Removal Methods for Women

Top Facial Hair Removal Methods for Women
Photo by Alexandru Zdrobău on Unsplash

For centuries, women have removed their facial hair, yet we’re in 2019 and it’s still something that we rarely talk about. Sure, everyone talks about their eyebrows, but it’s much rarer to hear people talk about removing hair from their chins, sideburns or top lip. Well, we’re here to tell you that one in 14 women in the UK suffers from some degree of hirsuitism and there are many health conditions which cause excess hair. With this in mind, we’re taking a look at the best ways for women to remove facial hair safely and effectively:

Waxing

Waxing is one of the most popular ways to remove facial hair because it’s quick, easy, accurate and the results last a decent amount of time. You can wax yourself at home, although this does take a little practice, especially if you use hot wax, so we’d recommend visiting an expert in a salon. Use Elemis Tea Tree S.O.S. Spray on the areas you’ve waxed to prevent infection or ingrown hairs.

Shaving

You might be surprised to hear that facial shaving is becoming increasingly popular with women, even for those who only have the tiniest amount of peach fuzz. This is because many women feel their make up sits better and is easier to apply on a smooth canvas. If this is for you, make sure you use a clean, sharp razor every time and use with Elemis Skin Soothe Shave Gel for a close finish.

Threading

Threading is an ancient method of hair removal, popular in Eastern cultures and gives an extremely precise finish. It’s perfect for eyebrows, top lips, chins and sideburns and, like waxing, pulls the hair out at the root which means the results at a long time. You can learn to thread, but it takes a LOT of practice, plus it’s usually so cheap to have done in a salon that we’d always recommend going to an experienced professional. You should also use Dermalogica Redness Relief Essence afterwards to control redness and irritation.

Plucking

If you’re lucky enough to just have the odd hair here and there, going for the good old fashioned tweezers might be the best option for you. You don’t need a broader method like shaving or waxing and tweezing can be done at home, in the privacy of your bathroom. Make sure you use a good pair of tweezers and disinfect them before each use to ensure you don’t transfer any bacteria to your skin and treat your face to some Decleor Organic Rose D’Orient Soothing Comfort Oil Serum once you’re done.

Electrolysis

If you’re serious about removing hair for good, electrolysis could be a good option for you. Electrolysis safely and permanently removes all types of hair from all skin tones by permanently destroying the growth cells of the hair follicle and preventing treated hairs from ever growing back. Treatment can be applied to most facial and body parts including eyebrows, chin, upper and lower lip, jaw line and sides of the face.

Nail Colours for the Winter Season

Having your nails done, for many people, is one of life’ little pleasure, and there’s no denying the fact that professionally manicured nails make your whole appearance look tidier and more pulled-together. However, it’s often tough to make the choice of what colour you want to go for when faced with a huge choice of polishes, o we’ve gone into our Orly stocks and picked out five autumnal colours to give you some inspiration when choosing your next mani:

Orly Breathable The Antidote

Orly Breathable The Antidote

Nothing say autumn than deep wine shades, and with the huge popularity of mustard in autumn/winter fashion for 2019, this would probably compliment most of your wardrobe, too. All Orly polishes nourish and hydrate to strengthen and grow with argan oil, pro-vitamin B5 and vitamin C all in one longer lasting formula, to cut manicure time in half.

Orly Breathable Heaven Sent

Grey is one of those colours which has been huge in both fashion and interiors this year and it doesn’t look to be going away any time soon. This colour from Orly is described as a “charmeuse” colour, offering shimmer and depth, perfect for your nails heading into party season. Also, Orly polishes are so tough, they require no topcoat or base coat.

Orly Breathable Nail Superfood

We’d usually associate bright coral tones with summer months, but anyone who know anything about colour trends will assure you that this is a hot tone for this season. Orly describes ‘Superfood’ as a “bright watermelon cream colour” and as with all of their polishes, oxygen and hydration penetrate to the nail allowing it to stay moisturised.

Orly Breathable Detox My Socks Off

This time of year always conjures up images of deep greens, from Christmas trees to shimmering dresses worn for festive occasions, and “Detox My Socks Off” is the perfect deep green. The great thing about Orly nail varnishes is that they are all vegan friendly, cruelty free, gluten free and offer treatment and colour all in one.

Orly Breathable Fairy Godmother

The festive season would not be complete without a shimmering golden polish for your nails, and this rose-gold colour would look amazing with just about any outfit you can throw together for Christmas parties and drinks with friends. Orly never uses camphor, formaldehyde resin, parabens or xylene, giving you the confidence to know that your nails are still being cared for beneath their colourful exterior.