Our Blog – Page 61 – Pure Beauty – The Lichfield Beauty Salon

5 Things to Avoid to Reduce Wrinkles

06/08/2016 05/08/2016 0

Wrinkles. They’re something that most people have to deal with at some point in their life, and for many people they’re just accepted as a fact of ageing. There are, however, lots of factors which will have an impact on HOW much your face wrinkles as you get older and by avoiding these things you could greatly reduce the effects of ageing.

Smoking

Smoking is bad for us in SO many ways, from damaging our lungs, eyes, increasing the risk of several types of cancer, damaging teeth and guns, and obviously increasing the signs of ageing. Perhaps the best way to see the impact of smoking is to compare identical twins where one is a smoker and one isn’t. The photo below shows how the smoking twin not only looks at least ten years older but also has areas of hyperpigmentation and FAR more wrinkles, especially around the mouth.

Drinking Alcohol

Excessive alcohol consumption is another classic cause of increased signs of ageing. There are things within alcohol called hepatotoxins which damage the liver, and all alcohol dehydrates the skin, which is why we wake up feeling like a wilted flower the morning after a big night out. Avoiding all alcohol is obviously the only way to stop these effects, but if you must have a drink then opting for clear spirits is better as there’s less sugar.

Sugar

Leading on from the alcohol issue, a high sugar diet can contribute massively to the signs of ageing.; in fact, some doctors think that sugar is more damaging to the skin that sun exposure! Sugar seems to deplete the collagen in the skin, leading to loose, ill-defined skin which will make you look old beyond your years.

Stress

Stress is a double-edged sword; most of us frown and use exaggerated facial expressions during times of stress but the body also releases cortisol which is something which can accelerate the signs of ageing from the inside. Yoga is a good way to minimise stress and to learn coping mechanisms to help reduce the impact of stress on our lives.

Sun

We all know that tanning is a nightmare for causing wrinkles and hyperpigmentation, to minimising sun exposure is vital. Use a high SPF or opt for a self-tanning lotion if you really want a golden glow. Also, make sure you use a decent after-sun to repair damage if you do spend time in the sun.

Health and Happiness

Go out and do something active this summer

02/08/2016 02/08/2016 0

With Rio just around the corner, what better time to get off the sofa and dive into sports?

The NHS* says that to keep healthy, adults should try to be active daily and aim to achieve at least 150 minutes of physical activity a week through a variety of activities. They suggest you work at a ‘moderate rate’, which means you can still talk but can’t sing the words to a song.

There are so many activities to choose from we have put together a round up our favourites and hope they will be something that inspires you to put your screen down, and trainers on.

Let’s start with swimming. Whether you swim competitively or just for fun, the in pool, sea or river is a great place to get active. As well as raising your heartbeat, it strengthens your muscles and improves your general fitness levels. It can be a sociable sport if you go with a friend or join a club and because it is low impact, it is pretty much perfect for anyone.

Wimbledon might be over for another year, but you can take up tennis at anytime. Go with family or friends, book a court or just knock a ball about in the park. The brilliant thing about tennis is you can play in all weather thanks to indoor courts.

Baseball and softball might be synonymous with America, but they are a brilliant way to have fun and get fit. Organise a game with friends at a local park, maybe after work, and you will be amazed at how many people want to come along and get involved.

If you live near the river, how about rowing? This is an all over, aerobic exercise that gets the heart beating and lungs pumping. There are clubs around the country and courses are popping up all over the place. Go on, give it a go, you might like it and you can even get on the water even when it is snowing!

Cycling is a fantastic way to get in shape. You might not have been on two wheels since you were a kid, but you never forget how to ride a bike. Go out with a friend or join a local group and find your pace. You can go for a road bike, hybrid model or go off road on a mountain bike. Whatever you do, make sure the bike is the right size for you, you have a puncture kit with you at all times and please, please, please wear a helmet.

If you live by the sea, or are going on holiday, how about trying surfing or paddle boarding? These are low impact sports that are great for building core strength and they are the perfect way to get some sea air into your lungs.

You might not want to do this in the heat of the midday sun, but running is another option to think about. All you need are a pair of decent trainers and, well that’s it. Start slowly and build your distance and speed and you’ll be amazed at the progress you make. Going with a friend can make you accountable and having an end goal, like a charity event, can be a massive incentive. Don’t compete with anyone but yourself and feel those endorphins make you feel amazing.

Golf, yoga, football, skateboarding, rugby, badminton, cricket, the list goes on, so find something you love it and go for gold.

Team Pure-Beauty

* http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/fitness/Pages/Whybeactive.aspx

Health and Happiness

Get Rid of Undereye Bags with Dermalogica and Decleor

30/07/2016 22/07/2016 2

There are a number of causes of swelling under the eyes, also know as “eye bags”, such as tiredness, allergies, dehydration and genetics. For some people, eye bags are an inevitability; look at your parents. Do they have them? If they do then the chances are higher that you might. However, it doesn’t matter what causes them, there are things you can do to reduce the appearance of bags under your eyes. Whether you’re carrying a small clutch or a wheeled suitcase, we’ve got tips on how to reduce them!

Reduce Salt

One cause of eye bags is excessive amounts of salt in your diet. Without getting too ‘science-y’, it’s something to do with water collecting in areas of your body which have low sodium levels and apparently the area below your eyes is a prime example. Opting for low-sodium options will have a knock-on effect, improving your health and the look of your eyes.

Sleeeeeep!

Okay, so for some of us suggesting we get more sleep is just not an option. New parents, shift workers and insomniacs all know that sleep can be elusive, but a lack of sleep really can have an effect on both your health and your appearance. Fatigue will cause bags, but a serum such as Decleor Hydrotenser Anti-Fatigue Eye Serum will reduce puffiness and also improve the appearance of fine lines.

Deal With Your Allergies

Allergies are one of the number one causes of puffy eyes with dust, pollen and animal allergies being the most common irritants. Ensuring you take a decent anti-histamine which reduces your allergies is important for both your appearance and your overall feeling of wellbeing. Dermalogica Total Eye Care SPF15 protects and refreshes your delicate eye areas during the day and has the added bonus of it’s own SPF.

Avoid Irritants

Some of us have skin which is simply too delicate to deal with perfumed cosmetics and heavy make up, and will react by swelling. Opting for gentle products which are sympathetic to sensitive skin is a must – cleanse with something very delicate like Decleor Soothing Micellar Water and follow with Decleor Harmonie Calm Relaxing Milky Gel-Cream for Eyes to properly cleanse ad soothe the area.

Live Clean

This one may sound a little boring but clean living is the first step towards bag-free eyes – smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol are two of the most common causes of waking up with bags under your eyes, followed by over-indulgence on unhealthy food. Treat yourself occasionally, but try to be as healthy as possible on a day-to-day basis.

Dermalogica

Shave the right way

26/07/2016 22/07/2016 0

Let’s face it, shaving can be a challenge at times.

If you get it right you’re left with glowing, super soft skin, get it wrong and as well as cuts and nicks you can also suffer with rashes and ingrowing hairs. Not nice.

However, by reading this post, you could change of all that today.

At Pure-Beauty we stock a range of first class shaving products from Dermalogica that really do work.

The ‘Dermalogica Shave System’ is an easy to follow, effective 3-step regime that delivers the closest shave possible and healthiest skin ever.

Let’s take a look at the products and start with the Dermalogica Close Shave Oil, which is amazing and suitable for all skin types. This oil creates a cushion between the skin and razor and is when grooming around a goatee or sideburns. To use this product put a few drops of oil into wet palms and smooth over the skin you are shaving, insuring it is damp. Shave, rinsing the razor often and shave again if so desired. Not only will using the oil mean no nicks, cuts or razor burns, thanks to the natural ingredients skin is left calm, conditioned and smooth.

Not a necessity but the Dermalogica Daily Clean Scrub is great preparation for shaving and a real treat. This dual action exfoliating cleanser removes both oil and dead skin cells and leaves skin looking, and feeling, clean and clear and ready for a closer shave. Willow Bark Extract and Silica help remove dead skin cells, which in turn controls ingrown hairs. Tea Tree Oil eliminates nasty microorganisms, and helps calm and the skin whilst Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice soothes it and aids the regeneration of damaged tissues. Clever, no?

If you want a barber quality shave at home, we suggest you try the Dermalogica Invigorating Shave Gel. This oil-free shaving gel soothes, cools and softens the skin. The clear formula means you can see you can see the areas that need to be shaved and the result is clean, refreshed skin that looks and feels great. All of this is thanks to the combination of powerful, natural ingredients. Wheat Germ and Yeast extracts combat the irritation and redness associated with shaving. Clove Flower Oil soothes the skins and lifts beard hair and Tea Tree Leaf Oil adds a cool, calming element. For the best results, apply to clean, damp skin and as you have, rinse the blade often.

Once your skin is shaved, you want to keep in in the best possible condition. This is where the Dermalogica Post Shave Balm comes in really handy. Much more than a traditional after-shave, this super cooling treatment balm, helps reduce discomfort and redness. It also shortens post-shave recovery time by restoring lost moisture. A unique ingredient complex, controls shine and helps prevent ingrown hairs and bumps but doesn’t leave a heavy residue. Once applied, allow to absorb then apply the Dermalogica Daily Defence Block SPF15, and enjoy your day.

If you have questions or concerns about shaving or caring for your skin, get in touch and we will be delighted to help.

Team Pure-Beauty

Health and Happiness

Top Tips for Safe Tanning

23/07/2016 22/07/2016 0

Just yesterday, a study was released which showed that the majority of the population was deficient in Vitamin D, an essential component which helps us to absorb calcium and keep our bones healthy. The main way to get vitamin D is through exposure to sunlight, which is tricky because too much sun exposure can also lead to skin cancer, so although we need to spend more time in the sun, it’s important that we do it safely. We’ve put together some tips on the safest way to get a tan, to keep you looking and feeling healthier:

Know Your Limits

It’s often advised that you should spend half an hour in the sun and then half an hour in the shade; sage advise if your skin is very light or freckly but if you have olive or dark skin then you can probably cope with a bit longer without sustaining damage as your skin will have more melanin. If you do burn easily though, spending time in the shade is essential as it gives your skin a chance to cool down.

Use Sunscreen

It’s a commonly held myth that you won’t get a tan if you use sunscreen. Sunscreen, such as Decleor Ultra Protective Hydrating Milk SPF50 Body will still allow you to go brown but it will just protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays at the same time, allowing you to tan without burning or advancing the signs of ageing. Obviously, if you have darker skin you can probably stand to use a lower SPF, such as Decleor Protective Hydrating Milk SPF15 Body.

Avoid Sunbeds

It’s tempting, especially when the weather here in the UK is so unpredictable, to use sunbeds. Many people use them before they go on holiday to give them the start of a tan, or to “get their skin used to the sun”. This is a bit of a myth; overexposure to the sun will still burn you, even if you have a starter tan, and it’s estimated that using sunbeds for the first time before the age of 35 increases the risk of developing melanoma skin cancer by nearly 60%.

Own Your Tone

For many of us, the skin just doesn’t produce the amount of melanin needed to get a deep tan and no amount of laying in the sun will transform us into a golden goddess. Coming to terms with this fact and just having fun by the pool or on the beach will improve our holidays no end!

Fake It

If you’re really determined to get a tan, the only truly safe way to do it is to fake it. Tan from a bottle isn’t what is used to be; no longer do you have to worry about orange knees, streaky legs and stained palms. Decleor offer a wonderful Gradual Tanner, a moisturising lotion which builds a slight colour which can be layered over time to achieve the colour you’re comfortable with. It’s a natural looking glow which won’t risk your health OR require you to move to the Southern Hemisphere for 8 months of the year!

Health and Happiness, Life and Fashion

The ‘must-have’ summer holiday essentials

19/07/2016 18/07/2016 0

You’ve booked the hotel, reserved your seats and are on countdown to your summer holiday and all that’s left to do is pack.

We’ve all done it, arrived in paradise and left that one precious item at home, but that doesn’t have to be the case.

We have the low-down on exactly what to pack so you’ll look picture perfect in selfies and have the best time, ever.

Before you pack, make a list of what you need and once you are done, tick off each item. When you mind is on the beach and cocktails, it is amazing how easy it is to think you have everything, only to arrive and realise, you don’t.

Whilst there might be a spa at your hotel, you don’t want to arrive with your back in knots because you’ve been carrying heavy bags. Go for a smart case with wheels and one in a distinctive colour or style so you can grab it at arrival and head off fast. Remember to check sizes, locks, how sturdy it is and if you can actually pull it along before you buy a new case.

We know, we know, it’s bit geeky but you’ll thank us for suggesting you get a travel wallet. There are some super-stylish options out there that look gorgeous whilst keeping your passport, tickets and receipts safe. Go for an oversized wallet, in a stand out colour and you will never have to pat your pockets at you approach passport control again.

As well as your passport, also make sure you take your driving license, insurance documents, next of kin contact details, visas if you need them, and credit cards. Keep them safe at all times – goes without saying we know, but it’s good to be careful.

As well as taking your mobile charger, also considering taking a power pack so you can charge on the go. These start at around £20 and are a worthwhile investment. Having your phone charged gives you peace of mind and you know you can like, chat and Tweet to your heart’s content whether you are on the beach, by the pool or at the airport.

When it comes to cables, make sure you take everything you need when you go away and put them in a dedicated bag or pouch. Also pack adaptors to ensure you can plug in on arrival.

If take regular medication – pack it!

Flights can be long, and delayed, so be savvy and pack an eye mask, socks, and a small blanket so you can keep comfortable and warm.

Remember that liquids will be confiscated at check-in, so pack carefully or Duty Free could be an expensive experience.

Whether you’re heading to Marbella or going to New York shopping, go for a capsule wardrobe of floral dresses, print T-shirts, shorts and kaftans. A denim jacket, tote, statement necklace and pair of wedges can be worn on the flight and mixed with other items on arrival.

Don’t over pack, roll up jersey, bikinis and underwear, place socks in shoes and got for flats as well as heels.

Sunglasses and hats are a given as is sunscreen! Pack them and use them, your eyes and skin will thank you.

Waterproof mascara is a holiday must-have, and however hard you have been partying, always take your make-up before you go to bed.

What ever you do, keep safe and have an amazing time.

Team Pure-Beauty.

Life and Fashion, Waxing

Waxing Styles and What to Ask For

16/07/2016 15/07/2016 0

If you’re a complete waxing virgin, going to a salon for the first time can seem like a really daunting prospect, but there’s no doubt that waxing is one of the most convenient was to get your bikini line in check in time for your holiday. Not only is it one of the longer-lasting methods of hair removal, short of actually lasering it all off, it’s easier to pop to a salon and get is sorted rather than doing the splits in your bathroom to deal with shaving or depilatory cream! Knowing what to ask for can really help because the last thing you want is to walk in for a tidy-up and come out feeling like a freshly plucked turkey, so we thought we’d give you a simple guide to bikini waxing styles to help you to get prepared:

Standard bikini wax

This is what we like to think of as the “short back and sides” of the bikini wax – it allows you to remove the hair on your groin and inner thighs whilst completely leaving the rest alone. It’s quick and easy to do, will trim you up to bikini-wearing standards and will stay tidy for the duration of your holiday.

Brazillian wax

The Brazillian is probably the most popular type of wax that most people go for as it goes a little further than a standard wax but leaves you with what’s known to most as a “landing strip” down the middle! It’s perfect if you plan to wear a very high-cut bikini or swimsuit and will give you the confidence that there are no stray hairs anywhere.

Hollywood wax

The Hollywood is a wax which is NOT for the faint-hearted as it gets rid of literally everything, from side to side and front to back! It’s great if you like the completely smooth feeling of no hair at all and is probably the most efficient way to get rid of all of your hair from that region.

French Wax

This is where we start to get really precise! The French wax falls somewhere between a standard and a Brazillian; it’s more than a short back and sides but also leaves you with more than just a landing strip and doesn’t take anything from the back! Obviously, it’s all down to personal preference but some women really dislike the look of a Brazilian, so a Frech wax could leave you feeling a lot more comfortable but still feeling like you can wear skimpy swimwear.

Postage Stamp

This is probably one of the least asked-for styles, but is still a favourite for many women. Hair is removed from the back and sides, leaving a square of hair on the pubic bone. It’s a neat style for anyone who doesn’t want to get rid of too much or doesn’t like the “all off” styles of waxing and most good salons will be able to do it.

After any waxing, don’t forget to use a good post-waxing treatment such as Decleor Post Wax Cream for sensitive areas to soothe and heal the skin, which can be left red and sore after your treatment.

Health and Happiness, Life and Fashion

Happiness Hacks

12/07/2016 12/07/2016 0

There are some days when you just feel, well, a bit below par.

Maybe you’ve got too much work on, haven fallen out with a friend or are unsure about the future after the Brexit news.

You know what, that’s OK.

You can’t be happy 100% of the time; it’s just not possible. However, if you can’t quite shake off that ‘can’t be bothered’ feeling, we have some easy ways to put a spring in your step and put a smile on your face once again.

Do more exercise
Whilst it is easy to sit on the sofa with chocolate and a weepy film, this isn’t going to make you feel any better. We aren’t talking about training for a marathon or going to the gym every day, but putting on a pair of trainers and getting out of the house will help lift your mood. Start small and make exercise a part of your routine and in no time that fresh air and increase in endorphins will you happier.

Step away from gadgets
We live in a non-stop, 24/7, media heavy age where most of us believe we are on call all of the time. From time to time go gadget free. Even if it’s for just an hour a week, turn off social media, put your phone on silence, close the computer away and do something less boring instead.

Stop comparing
You might think someone else has the perfect life, but you never know what goes on behind closed doors. It is all too easy to think that Jo from the office has a great car and Caroline wears the best designers clothes – but does this make them happy? Think about the positives in your life, what you have to offer others and what you do have, not what you don’t.

Give back
Pay someone a compliment, buy a friend some flowers, do some voluntary work or simply open the door for a stranger – it is amazing how great giving back can make you feel.

Don’t skip meals
Maintaining a well-balanced diet is key to keeping happy. Skipping meals, excessive calorie counting and junk food are all a recipe for misery. Fresh fruit and vegetables, good proteins, healthy oils and water, will all keep you full, hydrated and happy. Limit alcohol and caffeine as these can both be bad for your health and well-being.

Get to bed
Not getting enough sleep can be a real mood killer. If you don’t have enough sleep not only will you feel anxious and lethargic, but it can also slow reaction times and impair your memory. If you set a bedtime routine, have a bath, use a blackout blind and turn screens off, you will have a better chance of sleeping. If you really cannot nod off, get up, have a warm drink, relax and try again.

Sing
Whether you sing in the car, join a choir or go to a gig, singing is a great way to feel good. You don’t have to be in tune or know all the words, but add a little bit of dancing and you will soon feel happier.

Smile
It is a small thing but turning that frown into a smile can make a big difference to you and those around you.

Write a poem, walk your dog, blow bubbles, eat a banana, buy some flowers, talk to a friend, watch the sunset – whatever you do, add a little happiness to your life today.

Team Pure-Beauty

Decleor, Dermalogica

Delve into Nature’s Kitchen with Dermalogica and Decleor

09/07/2016 08/07/2016 0

Some of the most powerful ingredients in our best-selling Dermalogica and Decleor products come straight from natures kitchen, harnessing the power of Mother Nature to keep your skin looking its best. We thought we’d take a look at some of those ingredients, find out what they can do and in which products you can find them:

Witch Hazel

Witch hazel comes from the flowers of a North American shrub and contains both a natural astringent which cleanses and tones the skin, and anti-inflammatory properties which help to reduce redness. It can be found in Dermalogica’s Skin Purifying Wipes, which are specially formulated for acne-prone skin and can be used throughout the day to refresh the face, get rid of excess oil and prevent breakouts.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has become something of a powerhouse in the world of beauty, fitness and nutrition lately with people putting it in everything from their coffee to their conditioner. It’s a fantastic source of moisture and vitamins and keeps the skin and hair supple and soft. It’s no surprise that Dermalogica has utilised the deep moisturising power of coconut in its Super Rich Repair, a heavyweight cream for dry and dehydrated skin. It’s perfect for very dry or mature skin because it smoothes fine dryness lines and helps restore elasticity.

Evening Primrose Oil

Evening primrose oil is commonly associated with menstrual issues and when taken as a capsule can help with bloating, mood swings and other symptoms. When applied topically it can also be wonderful for the skin, and Decleor have harnessed it’s power within its Mandarine Smoothing Night Balm. It’s 100% natural and improves the skin’s luminosity whilst reducing fine lines and wrinkles and restoring vital moisture.

Zinc

Zinc is a chemical element which is actually vital to nutrition and good health. It’s known to help to fight against the common cold and is very important for clear skin, helping with cell regeneration and replication. It’s particularly good for controlling acne, which is why it’s found in Dermalogica Breakout Control. This little bottle of clear cream helps to prevent and control acneic breakouts and eliminates bacteria and excess sebum.

Peppermint

Peppermint doesn’t just smell and taste good; it also has soothing and purifying properties which help to prevent the skin from producing too much oil, thus preventing skin congestion and acne. Decleor Fresh Purifying Gel contains peppermint and deeply cleanses the skin, refreshes the face and leaves you feeling super clean.

Health and Happiness, Life and Fashion

Getting jet lag under control

05/07/2016 04/07/2016 0

Jetting off on our summer holiday is something many of us look forward to all year.

Two weeks in the sun, enjoying an American city break or cruising around the Caribbean are all amazing experiences but if jet lag strikes it can really put a spanner in the works.

Whilst flights make it easy, and fast, to travel from one side of the world to another, this doesn’t mean your body clock will keep up.

The world is divided into 24 time zones and whilst crossing one or two time zones (from the UK to South Africa) doesn’t usually affect people, crossing 8 time zones (UK to LA) can cause more severe jet lag.

As you travel between these time zones your internal body clock has to adapt to new times of light, darkness and eating. If this doesn’t happen and you simply cannot deal with the changes, jet lag kicks in.

One of the most typical symptoms of jet lag is disturbed sleep and being unable to nod off sleep at the usual times. Other problems you might experience, include:

Anxiety
Diarrhoea and sickness
Constipation
Disorientation
Excessive sweating
Headaches
Lack of focus and concentration
Lack of appetite
Irritability and mood swings
Memory loss
Lightheadedness
Sore muscles

Whilst you can simply put up with these symptoms, some of which can last up to a week or more, we have had a look at how to deal with them head on and prevent anguish and suffering.

During your flight ensure you drink plenty of water and restrict your alcohol and caffeine intake.

When you are on the plan, make sure you get out of your seat at regularly intervals to walk and stretch. Doing exercises like toe raises and shoulder shrugs in your seat can keep the blood flowing.

If you are flying overnight, sleep at the right time for your destination. Using earplugs and an eye mask can help with this.

Change your watch to the time of your destination when you get on the flight.

When you arrive at your destination (holiday or back at home) establish a new routine as soon as possible.

Make sure you eat and sleep for the time zone you are now in and whilst it is tempt, don’t sleep or nap as soon as you get b to your destination, however tired you are. It is much better to keep active until the right time to sleep, as this will reteach your body clock what it needs to do.

Spend some time outside, as the natural light will help your body adjust to a new routine.

Spraying lavender on your pillow or using essential oils can help relax you and promote sleep when that is what you are trying to do.

Drink plenty of water and keep well hydrated.

Avoid drinks that are high in caffeine as well as alcohol as these can dehydrate you and make you feel even worse.

If you are a frequent flyer and suffer with jet lag, speak with your GP about suitable sleeping medication.

Happy holidays and try to keep the jet lag at bay.

Pure-Beauty.

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