We’re never happier than when one of our brands launches a new product and we’re able to offer it to our customers, and that’s exactly what we’re doing today! One of the newest products from Decleor is their Aurabsolu Refreshing Mist, so we thought we’d give you an overview of the product so you can be totally in the know before you buy:
What is it?
Decleor Aurabsolu Refreshing Mist is a tonic specially created to refresh skin. It gives an instant moisture boost to skin in need of support.
What does it do?
This is a truly multi-functional product which moisturises, refreshes the skin, gently exfoliates and refine skin’s texture. It can also be used over the top of make-up as a setting spray and freshening hydrator.
Who is it for?
This mist is suitable for all skin types, so can be used by absolutely everyone.
What’s in it?
As well as containing salicylic acid, the mist also contains mint flower water to rejuvenate and a cocktail of essential oils such as lemongrass, thyme and rosemary for a fragrant aromatic sensation.
How do you use it?
Decleor Aurabsolu Refreshing Mist can be applied after cleansing, to set make-up or whenever skin needs an invigorating burst of hydration.
What are people saying about it?
“Fantastic! I have been using this product since it was first launched, I use it to set my make-up. I wouldn’t be without it!”
“I don’t use it as a mist/spray, but spray it onto a cotton pad and use as a toner. I have found that it seems to have a positive effect on my acne prone skin. It feels and smells refreshing and seems to control oiliness when applied in that way.”
“I am using this mist for a couple of weeks now and it’s been very nice on my skin. I have a very sensitive and dry skin so that product really helps to bring back the freshness and softness to my skin. I use it mainly in the morning before applying my day cream.”
“I bought this after purchasing this after my holiday to see if this would hydrate my skin. It’s a great refreshing mist, and leaves your skin soft, its non-greasy. And a great pick me up in the afternoon when you think your skin needs a boost.”
From luscious lavender, to restorative rosehip, there’s a whole world of skin loving botanicals out there, which could change your beauty routine forever. While we always recommend using the essential cleanse, tone and moisturise regime, adding a smoothing, plumping, healing extra from the hedgerows, could be a total game changer for you.
We have had a look at some of the options out there, and have a feeling you are going to like what you read.
Argan Oil Argan Oil comes from the kernels of the Argan tree in Morocco and has seen a rise in popularity in the beauty world in recent years, and for good reason. This gorgeous, golden oil has many benefits for both skin and hair, thanks to its soothing, conditioning, hydrating powers. Rich in Vitamin E, this oil is great when it comes to caring for delicate, sensitive skin which is prone to redness and it really is wonderful in the winter. Top Tip – apply this lightweight oil directly to the skin, massage it in gently, and over time you will be surprised at the difference it will make, especially to areas which are exposed to the elements.
Calendula Oil Calendula Oil is perfect for treating all manner of skin conditions and we think no beauty cabinet, or first aid kit, should be without it. This oil is extracted from marigold flowers and comes with antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties that help to heal wounds, sooth eczema, and can even relieve nappy rash. Top tip – add a drop of Calendula Oil to your day cream and not only will it nourish your skin, but it will give you a pollution protecting boost at the same time!
Lavender Oil Lavender is one of the most versatile essential oils and we can’t get enough of it. Most commonly known for its relaxing effects on the body and mind, it can also be used for massage, and is used in many beauty products. The heady, floral, relaxing aroma will encourage you to unwind and when added to bath water, it will help to relieve tired, aching muscles and allow you to leave the stress and worries of the day behind. Top Tip – carrying a small bottle of Lavender Oil around with you is like having your own personal first aid kit, perfume and pick-me-up with you at all times, so pop one in your bag and you know help is always on hand.
Rosehip Oil When your skin needs a dose of nourishment, why not turn to the luxurious properties of Rosehip Oil. Non-greasy and fast absorbing, this oil is rich in omegas and essential fatty acids, which help achieve a healthy-looking complexion. Massaging just one or two drops into your skin morning and night, will help lock in moisture for hours, and ongoing use will ensure you have a radiant glow all year round. Top tip – while you can add this oil to your moisturiser, and foundation, for a dewy finish, it can also be used as a luxurious hydrating treatment for your hands and lips.
Very few of us are blessed with perfect nails which grow through strong and even, and many of us have issues with our nails which need extra help. Today, we’re looking at four common nail problems which a lot of people have to deal with, and try to find ways to help:
Splitting Nails
Nails which split are usually caused by dryness and the body’s natural oils being stripped away. This can be caused by constant application and removal of nail polish, use of strong chemicals without gloves (hairdressers, we’re looking at you!) or even just spending a lot of time with your hands in water doing washing up. Give your nails a boost with Elemis Japanese Camellia Body Oil Blend and make sure you wear gloves before doing anything harsh with your hands.
Ridged Nails
Ridged nails can look unsightly and you can buff and polish them as much as you like, if you don’t identify the underlying cause they’ll keep growing back. There can be many causes for ridges in your nails, such as eczema, rheumatoid arthritis or even just age, but one of the most common causes is damage to your cuticles by being a little overzealous with removing them. We recommend using something to soften your cuticles, such as Elemis Pro-Radiance Hand and Nail Cream and trying to cut back on the amount of trimming you do.
Pitted Nails
If your nails have become pitted, showing signs of what looks like tiny craters in the nail, there could be more to this than meets the eye. Pitting is most often caused by a fungal infection under the nail, and a trip to your doctor or chemist will be needed to get a specialised anti-fungal treatment to get rid of it. Once the infection has gone, the pits will eventually grow out, but you can keep your hands looking great in the meantime by using Jan Marini Bioglycolic Hand and Body Lotion daily.
Yellowing Nails
There are a couple of things which can cause yellowing nails and if you’re a heavy smoker, this is obviously going to be the main one. The tar in cigarettes is notorious for staining your hands (among other horrible health damaging things), and quitting is the only way to prevent this. However, if you’re a non-smoker and still have yellow nails, your nail polish could be the culprit. Reds and pinks often cause yellowing of the nail and if you opt for these colours on a regular basis, this is likely what’s making your nails discolour. Try to use a protective base coat before painting your nails and opt for something other than red or pink to let your nails recover.
If you’re lucky enough to be jetting off somewhere for a post-summer break, you may be worried about the effect that flying will have on our skin. There’s nothing worse than getting off of the plane in your exotic destination only to be plagued by dry skin and pimples from sitting in a tube full of recycled air! We’ve curated a list of products which we consider our ‘in-flight saviours’ so that you disembark looking glam and glowing:
A moisturising spritz can be a real skin-saver on a flight, especially if you’re flying long haul. Keeping this in your hand luggage and using it throughout the flight for a wash of moisture will eliminate dryness and dehydration and arnica and cucumber extracts help keep skin smooth and refreshed. It’s also great for male skin after shaving.
If you’re brave enough to sit on a plane in a face mask, this product will do absolute wonders for your skin as you fly! This mask from Decleor takes just three minutes to work, but will leave the skin smooth and even. It contains elemi and saro essential oils to help promote microcirculation and to purify and cleanse.
This cream from Elemis is designed to give skin a constant dose of moisture whilst actively helping to protect against environmental toxins. It’s a perfect base for make-up and utilises adaptive technology which adjusts to skin’s individual needs. Using this during your flight means you skin won’t ever have the opportunity to become dehydrated.
The delicate eye area can often really suffer during a flight, as the skin needs a little extra help to stay hydrated and healthy. This eye gel from Jan Marini encourages a dramatically smoother more hydrated eye area and helps reduce under-eye circles and discolouration while firming crepey skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
This spritz from Dermalogica provides critical hydration while helping to relieve and defend against inflammation, whilst relieving inflammation and discomfort, helping skin recover from damage and lipid barrier breakdown. It’s perfect for use during a flight as it will deeply hydrate your skin and stop any redness which may develop as a result of dryness.
Children going to school, divorce, teenagers leaving for university, a house move or new job can all be stressful, and while they are a part of everyday life, each one can lead to loneliness.
While feeling lonely isn’t a mental health problem itself, the two things are linked, and if you are feeling that way it can have a negative impact on your mental health, which isn’t what anyone wants, or needs.
We have had a look at some of the things you can do to ease those feelings, so you start to feel happier, and more connected, once again.
Join a class Whether it’s an art class, yoga class, or photography class at your local community centre, being part of a class gives you access to a new group of people with whom you can share an interest as well as a regular date in your diary. Being part of a group, can give you a feeling of belonging, and doing something new gives you a new direction and something to look forward to, both in terms of the activity and the friends you can make.
Get a pet A cat, dog, rabbit, or even a tortoise can help prevent loneliness. A pet can be good company if you are alone a lot of the time and of course, if you do have a dog, not only will they offer you companionship, but you will meet other people on your walks. It is also worth noting, that cute dogs are real attention magnets and can help start-up conversations, and you never know where those can lead. It is worth checking out local rescue centres and seeing where rehoming options are available and you never know, you might become a volunteer there, which can give you a whole new sense of purpose, gratitude and belonging, all of which can help with feelings of loneliness.
Expand your social network This might seem daunting but the internet has opened up a whole new world when it comes to connecting with people, both online and face to face. While spending a lot of time on social media, can actually make you feel more isolated as you look as those so-called ‘perfect lives’, it can actually be a wealth of information and inspiration. MeetUp.com is a great place to meet people and to find hobbies, interests and groups in your local area, and beyond if you are feeling brave. Remember, if you do meet up with a new group or person, tell someone you know where you are going and let them know you are home, and maybe you will be able to fill them in on the fun you had while you were out too!
See a therapist It is good to talk, and if you really are struggling with your feelings of loneliness, it might be worth finding a therapist who can help you deal with your issues. Your GP is probably a good starting point for finding a professional, and while some options are available on the NHS, there are private therapists out there too. Find someone who you trust, who you feel gets you and once you have done that, you may find that one-to-one time will help you get to grips with your loneliness and a strategy for change can be put in place.
Have a massage OK, hear us out on this one. Touch is a really powerful way to connect with someone, and for those who believe in Chinese traditional medicine, it can help prevent disease too. While we aren’t saying massage is a replacement for all that family and friends can offer, but when a treatment is carried out with care and compassion, by an expert therapist, it can really lift the spirit and you will hopefully be able to relax in a warm, safe space where you feel happy too.
Read a book Take your latest crime thriller or chic lit novel to your local coffee shop, sit down and as you devour the words on the pages, take in the world around you. We really think that doing something like this could help you stop feeling lonely, even just for an hour or two. You could also join a book club and find like-minded people with whom to share your passion for books and reading, and that could offer you a whole new opportunity to make friends and plan other events.
Connect with those around you Even if it’s just chatting with staff at the corner shop or in the library, when you say hello and even just talk about the weather, over time this can lead to so much more, from a job offer to friendship. Give it a go, you might be surprised at what happens.
Learn to be OK on your own Yes, too much time alone isn’t good for you, but learning to enjoy your own company is an important life skill. Being able to enjoy a cup of tea while reading the newspaper, watching the TV, walking by the sea or just being at home cooking a meal or doing chores, are all things you can do with someone else, but try doing them alone too, and you might be surprised at just how much you like you, after all.
Are you tired of having fine, limp looking hair that drops even before your straighteners have gone cold?
Sick of frizz that sucks the life out of your locks?
Wish your ponytail bounced on your shoulders, but instead are stuck with a messy bun that really does you no favours at all?
Fear not, we are here to help.
While we can’t wave a magic wand and change the fundamental make-up of your hair, we have some helpful hacks that we think might just give you the boost you have been looking for.
Get it cut Yes, that’s right. If you want your hair to look thicker and fuller, the best place to start isby having a few centimetres taken from the bottom to stop the dead ends dulling your look. If you have long, thin hair, this often weighs itself down and makes your roots look flat and super curcly hair can be all over the place, not where you always want it. When you go for your appointment, make sure your hairdresser looks at how your hair naturally sits, where your parting is and if you get them to add some choppy, volume adding layers they will hopefully give the illusion of celebrity style and natural thickness.
Swap your products We know people stick to what they love and know, but when it comes to hair products, this isn’t always the best approach. Using the right products for your hair will make an instant difference, so spend a bit of time in the chemist looking at what will work best for you. Whether it is thin hair, dry scalp issues or over bleaching that you want to deal with, you can be sure there will be a shampoo and conditioner that is right for you, and if you add in a serum and mask, you will be shining bright in no time at all.
Where is your parting Just like fingerprints and DNA, your parting is totally yours, so own it. Going with your natural parting can help make your hair look fuller and give it a natural swing, because that is where it is meant to be. Side partings can add volume, middle ones are elegant with a little bit of edge, and if you are feeling brave, go with your natural sweep and have a fringe cut, to really bring out the best in your hair.
Keep the heat down It is amazing how people think that the only way you can get an enviable mane, is to blast it with heat, but this isn’t true. Air drying your hair can add natural bounce, and if you gently towel dry your hair when you get out of the shower, add some volumising product and then leave it to dry, you will be surprised at the results. If you really can’t bear not to turn the temperature up when you are getting ready, go for the lowest settings on your appliances and use a protecting treatment to get the tresses you love but not at the cost of dry, brittle ends.
Add colour Adding a few high or lowlights can make the world of difference to how you look and feel. Caramel, honey and toffee tones expertly weaved through your hair can really lift your look, add depth and bring out the colour of your eyes and brighten you skin tone.
Added extras If you want something different, but don’t have the patience to wait for natural growth, why not think about extensions? Natural looking, subtle extensions which are well placed underneath your own hair will make the world of difference and once you add a little bit of lippy and a smile, you will be ready to go.
Whatever your skin type, winter is pretty much the toughest season for skin. The cold, wet weather, the central heating, the lack of sunlight and the tendency to hibernate indoors can all play havoc with your complexion. We thought we’d have a think about the most common skin issues to blight us in the winter and come up with a winter survival kit which will keep us going until spring finally arrives:
Many cleansers have a tendency to dry the skin out, which can be disastrous in the winter when your skin is already dry. This cleansing oil from Elemis is designed to melt away your make-up and daily dirt whilst also nourishing the skin and replenishing essential lost nutrients while you cleanse. It contains over 90% natural oils, rich in omegas and vitamins and softens, soothes and supports the moisture barrier, revealing a healthy looking, radiant and clear complexion.
It’s not just your face you have to worry about during wintertime – your body and hair can also end up dry and frazzled, so keeping this dry oil on hand can be a huge help. It’s designed to nourish skin, hair and nails without being greasy and leaves your body and face feeling softer and more comfortable, and your hair nourished and looking shiny. Enriched with frankincense essential oil, camellia, rose and sweet almond oils.
Winter skincare is all about moisture, and this is a heavy weight cream that will deliver immediate benefits to extremely dry or dehydrated skin. Ultra-emollients shea butter and evening primrose replenish your skin with maximum hydration, relieving dryness and reinforcing the skin’s natural defensive barrier, while antioxidant soy flavonoids shield against the extreme environmental elements that can accelerate the visible signs of aging.
What’s nicer than sinking into a hot bath when the weather outside is awful, especially if you’ve had to be out in the elements? This bath milk from Elemis is rich in vitamins which feed and nourish the skin, sourced from the plant collagen from Japanese camellia oil and oat extract in the formula. It’s highly nutritious and will leave the skin feeling soft, supple and totally moisturised.
Our hands seem to be one of the first places to suffer in the cold weather, leading to split skin and terrible soreness, so keeping a rich hand moisturiser close by is an absolute essential. This one from Elemis not only helps to banish dry skin and keep hands soft and supple, it also smells exotic and luxurious, thanks to the blend of Tahitian monoi and frangipani flowers.
Family demands, a to-do list as long as your arm, and friends wanting you to go out and party every weekend, makes for a busy, but sometimes stressful life.
It is one thing to ensure everyone else is happy, but you need to look after yourself too. You can keep saying you are ‘fine’, but don’t let life get too much so you hit rock bottom and burn out – then you aren’t any good for anyone.
We have had a look at some simple, easy, straightforward ways you can look after yourself without feeling like you are letting anyone down – including you.
Eat well Bags of crisps, bars of chocolate and energy drinks might give you an initial boost, but there is no substitute for good food in your diet. Try to make sure you are eating fresh fruits, vegetables, grains and healthy fats each day, and if you do eat meat and fish, try to go for good quality, organic options. If you think you might not be getting all the nutrition you need from your meals and snacks, trying a B12 or omega-3 supplement and adding a little green goodness, like spirulina, to porridge and smoothies can really help you get into a more relaxed headspace.
Fresh air Being stuck between indoors all day can make you feel claustrophobic, which won’t do your stress levels any favours. Getting outside, walking in the fresh air, maybe near the river or sea, and actually taking in the sights around you, can be really grounding. Make time to leave your office, desk, till or workstation at least once a day, turn off your phone, forget the demands on your time and simply enjoy the nature and fresh air as you walk on by.
Meditation We know it is a bit of a buzzword, but meditation can be a simple, easy, free and enjoyable way to get stress under control. You don’t need to go to a class or download a clever app, you can simply get started by sitting down somewhere quiet, focusing on your breathing, and trying to keep your mind free of anything other than the here and now. If your mind does wander to that difficult client or what to make for dinner, simply refocus and in time you will find that you really enjoy savouring the moment and letting stress drop away.
Write it down Staying organised and putting pen to paper has more power in getting your stress in check than you might imagine. When there are a million things running around in your head, start with one list and you’ll be surprised how many small stresses disappear from your life when you have a clearer idea of what is going on day-to-day.
Switch off the caffeine There is nothing nicer than snuggling up on the sofa to watch the TV with a warm drink, but caffeine really can hike up stress levels. Ditch the lattes and go for peppermint, chamomile, and lemon tea, and still get that glow, but without the artificial hit that can keep your brain busy worrying about things you just can’t control.
Get more rest Many People struggle to drop off but when you don’t get enough sleep, this can leave you feeling groggy and irritable. Try going to bed a bit earlier, switching off your phone, having a warm bath, doing some more meditation and of course, if you really need it, take a power nap in the day too.
A problem shared There is nothing more helpful and reassuring than having a good chat about your worries with someone you trust. They may have already been there and have some advice about your concerns but having someone simply listen can be the most therapeutic thing in the world.
Do something for you Whether you have a nice meal, go for a swim or book in for a massage, taking time out for you and letting the stresses of life take a back seat, can make a big difference. Schedule some time in once a week just for you, and we think you might be surprised at the changes you see.
Having a proper skincare routine is one of the key factors in making sure you halt the ageing process that your skin goes through. There are, however, things that you can eat which will also contribute towards halting the signs of ageing, so we thought we’d tell you about five of the best so that you can add them into your diet.
Nuts
No matter what type of nut you choose, they all have anti-inflammatory properties, which are fantastic for your skin. Inflammation can be responsible for all sorts of issues when it comes to the skin, and when you incorporate nuts into your diet, as well as using a decent anti-ageing face cream like Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream Ultra-Rich, your skin will stay wrinkle-free for much longer.
Dark Chocolate
They say a little of what you fancy does you good and when it comes to dark chocolate, this is definitely the case. Dark chocolate contains flavanols which are believed to benefit appearance by increasing blood flow to the skin, as well as absorbing UV radiation, protecting your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. Using Decleor Protective Anti-Wrinkle Cream SPF30 Face as well will increase the benefits.
Blueberries
Blueberries contain more antioxidants than almost any other fruit. They give you protection against skin-damaging free radicals from sun exposure, stress, and pollution, and they have vitamin C, which helps prevent the wrinkling effects of sun damage. Use Dermalogica Antioxidant HydraMist to maximise your antioxidant protection.
Avocado
Avocados are absolutely stuffed with fatty acids and the good oils that our body needs. Your body doesn’t make fatty acids by itself, which is why we need them in our diets – they’re key elements in a natural skin care diet, essential fatty acids like omega-3s and omega-6s are the building blocks of healthy cell membranes. These polyunsaturated fats also help produce the skin’s natural oil barrier, critical in keeping skin hydrated, plumper, and younger looking.
Carrots
Believe it or not, this humble root veg contains a lot of the things that our skin needs to be able to produce its own collagen. They’re rich in vitamin A, which helps to restore and regenerate damaged collagen, an essential for the elasticity and regeneration of skin cells. Eating plenty of carrots and using Elemis Pro-Collagen Hydra-Gel Eye Masks will keep your eye area looking youthful and fresh.
Ever looked in the mirror after a shower and wished your skin could look that fresh all day long?
Us too.
The thing is, whether you wash and go, or spend forever on your make-up before you dare venture out of the front door, all of your work could be in vain if you don’t get the basics right.
As we rush around and dash from one meeting to another, our make-up can go from perfect to plain sad by dinner time, but we have some tips that can help keep you looking as fresh as a daisy from desk to disco.
Cleanse, tone and moisturise Yes, we know this is old news, but it 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 will not only ensure your skin is clean but hydrated too and this can ease the fine lines and dry patches that even the best Snapchat filters can’t erase.
Exfoliate If you want really smooth skin, then we suggest you exfoliate once or twice a week. Go for a product which suits your skin type and addresses any concerns and you will find that the dead skin cells that can make you look tired and grey will be washed away so you look healthy and revitalised. Be careful around the eyes as this skin is super sensitive and remember that if you exfoliate your lips too, your lipstick lasts longer, and your kisses will be softer.
Redo on the run While you might want to touch up minor make-up flaws with your fingers, resist temptation and carry brushes and sponges with you as well as sample sizes of your regular products. Not only will this keep your complexion clear, but it will also stop bacteria and dirt spreading from your hands to your face.
Carry a highlighter If you want to brighten up your skin before that mid-afternoon meeting but don’t have time for a full makeover, then a highlighter is a hero product waiting to help you out.
Add a little mist We don’t suggest cleansing your skin in the middle of the day, but you will be surprised the difference a simple spritz of facial mist can make. We love the Dermalogica Antioxidant HydraMist because it has been formulated from natural ingredients which help improve texture while intensely hydrating dry, dehydrated skin. Spray over your make up when your skin feels tight, and let the goodness sink in and get to work.
Light up your lids While many people favour the smoky eye, lighter, neutral tones don’t smudge or crease as much, so your overall look will be cleaner and fresher. Opt for one neutral and one shimmery eye shadow or crayon and blend the two together across your lid for an easy everyday look. This can be vamped up for the evening with a volume blasting black mascara and deep plum lipstick. One extra tip is to add in a primer before applying your make up and you will be amazed at the massive difference this can make.
Eat well Yes, you can add products to your skin to help it look fab but is it just as important to nourish it from the inside. Eating well can help to keep wrinkles at bay, make your skin firmer and give it that holiday glow. Nuts, oats, protein rich fish like salmon and tuna as well as berries, spinach and oranges all come with skin boosting nutrients, and if you drink at least eight glasses of water a day too, you’ll be laughing.
We’re never happier than when one of our brands launches a new product and we’re able to offer it to our customers, and that’s exactly what we’re doing today! One of the newest products from Decleor is their Aurabsolu Refreshing Mist, so we thought we’d give you an overview of the product so you can be totally in the know before you buy:
