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Coconut oil – what’s all the fuss

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There is no getting away from it; coconut oil is hot property in kitchen cupboards and the bathroom cabinets.

The media hype isn’t going away and new products are popping up all of the time.

But why, we hear you ask.

Well, the simple truth is that this lush, tropical oil is rich in fab fats that are super good for you – inside and out.

Coconut oil is consider by many, but not all, to be a super-food powerhouse.

As well as smelling amazing, it has endless benefits, and uses, when it comes to beauty, cooking, natural remedies and helping with cleaning jobs around the house.

So, let’s take a look at some of the ways it is good for you.

Coconut oil is packed with short term medium-chain saturated fatty acids (MCFAs), which are consider to be a ‘healthy’ kind of saturated fat compared to trans fat which is linked to heart problems and increased cholesterol levels. Our body cleverly converts these fats in the liver, immediately turning it into brain and muscle fuel rather than storing it as fat.

If you have digestion issues, coconut oil could help. It has been found to help ease disorders including irritable bowel syndrome and microbial related tummy bugs and contains anti microbial properties, which sooth bacteria, candida and even parasites.

We are starting to see that consuming the wrong kinds of fats in our diets can really impact on our hormones. Coconut oil contains fats that support our body’s natural hormone production and allow our mood and skin to level out and behave better.

The lauric, capric and caprylic acids in coconut oil all have antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties which help build and maintain the immune system.

If you are looking for a skin saver, look no further than coconut oil. Forget fancy lotions and potions, this is a one-stop skin saving shop. It is an effective, pure moisturiser and thanks to natural antioxidant properties it works wonder on fine lines, wrinkles and irritation.

This oil is has been used for treating hair for centuries and with good reason – it works. Whether it is used as a mask, oil treatment, or added into homemade hair products, it will leave your locks luscious and soft.

Bearing all of this in mind, when it boils down to it, this is still an oil and therefore when eating it, you need to do so sparingly.

Coconut oil has the same calories as other fats, which is around 120 calories per tablespoon.

It probably isn’t a great idea to swap heart-healthy unsaturated fats found in things like nuts, seeds, and other plant oils for a saturated fat like coconut oil.

You can eat all kinds of heart-healthy fats every day but limit saturated fat to about 22 grams a day which is around 10% of your daily calorie intake.

Ensure you use coconut oil as part of a healthy, balanced diet packed with fruit and vegetables, at least eight glasses of water a day and moderate exercise.

Next week, we will look at how to introduce coconut oil into your diet, beauty regime and home.

The Best Ways to Fake Long Nails

Fake NailsIt’s a fact that some people are naturally blessed with the kind of nails which grow long and strong, never seem to break and are always neat and tidy. Then there are the rest of us whose nails split, break, get bitten or simply never seem to grow. There are treatments on the market which promise stronger, longer nails, like Decleor Ongles Nail Strengthening Serum which is a silky serum to restore strength and vitality to weak nails. However, we thought we’d look at some of the ways to fake long nails and see how well they work in the long run.

Press Ons

Most good chemists will sell sets of press-on nails which are ready manicured, or primed for paint, and literally just press onto your nails with a sticky pad or special nail glue. They’re pretty quick and easy to use…just don’t expect them to last a very long time. We’ve lost count of the amount of times we’ve used them only to look down and only see NINE perfectly manicured nails still in place!

Acrylic Nails

These are probably the most popular types of nail extensions and involve the process of a liquid polymer being applied over a plastic nail to create a long nail which can then be shaped and painted. They last really well but can cause a lot of damage to the existing nail because of the strong chemicals used. After removing acrylic nails, you’ll need to apply Dermalogica Multivitamin Hand and Nail Treatment regularly to help your nails recover.

Wraps

Wraps can be used to strengthen your own nails to allow them to grow without breaking and are probably the least damaging method of achieving long nails. They’re basically sheets of linen or slik which are glued to the nails in layers and built up to achieve strength. They’re fairly pricey and don’t last as well as acrylics, but the damage is less in the long run.

Shellac

Shellac is a gel nail polish which is painted onto your own nails, but hardens to a strong layer which could help you to grow your own nails longer if they’re usually brittle or prone to splitting. The process of applying shellac is really simple, not hugely expensive (in fact, it can be done at home with a few bits of kit) and allows you to make the most of your own nails without false extensions.

Gel Nails

Another type of artificial nail, gel nails are formed by applying a premixed, liquid chemical gel which is then set under a UV lamp. The heat and light “cure” the nails so they can be shaped and styled as desired. Non-UV gels are formed by an additional chemical activator over the gel. They’re usually the more expensive nails to have applied but they last well – in fact, they can’t be removed with chemicals, they need to be filed down manually to get them off!

After applying any sort of chemicals to the hands, it’s wise to use Decleor Hand Cream to protect and nourish the hands.

Seaside happiness in the UK

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As we approach mid-August you might feel it is too late to take a summer a break?

We disagree.

Whilst there is still time to book a flight and get out to the Med, why not make life easy and stay somewhere closer to home?

There some exceptional seaside options in the UK that make the perfect holiday destination whatever your age and budget.

We know you can’t count on the weather to be kind, but pack jumpers and umbrellas as well as sunglasses and we think that you’ll have fun in any one of these fab locations on home shores.

Studland Bay is quite simply, three miles of perfect sand that stretches along the Isle of Purbeck. Not only is the water calm and clean, but it backs onto a green, woody National Trust wildlife reserve – a truly wonderful combination. You won’t find arcades and fun fairs in this part of Dorset but with deer dashing in and out of the woods and fresh air flowing into your lungs, this is a little piece of paradise you will remember forever.

If you are looking for award winning beaches, look no further than Woolacombe in deepest, delightful Devon. The water is clean, the faculties are outstanding and life-guards ensure safety for swimmers and surfers, making it a very popular destination. There’s also a friendly village full of pubs, restaurants and places to stay and only a stone’s throw away you’ll find attractions, events and entertainment for all the family.

Suffolk offers a variety of seaside resorts but Southwold has to be the best. This historic town is a firm favourite of many who go back time and again to enjoy a warm welcome and a little bit of traditional seaside fun. Whether you spend your days in a bright beach hut, play hide and seek in the sand dunes or go fishing in the harbour, we are pretty sure you will fall in love with Southwold too.

Once at the cutting edge of coastal holidays in the UK, Skegness feel on hard times when low cost airfares made sunny Spain super-cheap. However with a cool new aquarium as well as seaside staple bumper cars, slot machines, and jaw-cracking sticks of rock (don’t tell your dentist), you can do worse than spending a weekend in ‘Skeggy’.

If you want to get away from everything, the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides is the place to go. Home to amazing beaches as well as wildlife, including golden eagles and red deer makes this a must-visit location for those who want to escape the rat race and go back to basics. Dalmor and Dal Beag beaches offer first class surfing, but wetsuits are a must as the water gets pretty chilly but the view makes it all worth it.

Watergate Bay in Cornwall is one of the most breathtaking beaches in the UK and loved by many. The soft sand is perfect for families wanting a safe day out and the surf brings beginners and pros alike to the beach all year long. There are a range of watersports on offer, fine food can be enjoyed at Jamie Oliver’s restaurant Fifteen and if you are looking for cream teas, you will be spoilt for choice.

Sat on the stunning Pembrokeshire coastline, Tenby with it’s pretty a pastel buildings and bustling streets, is a charming destination this summer. There are miles of outstanding sun-trap beaches to the north, south and west that are perfect for the brave to swim in, and the more refrained to paddle in. The quaint cobbled streets are loaded with pubs, shops and restaurants where visitors can while away the hours and enjoy a little bit of Welsh R&R.

So, if you think you are missing out because you aren’t in Marbella this summer, think again.

Team Pure-Beauty

5 Things to Avoid to Reduce Wrinkles

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.

smoker

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.

Go out and do something active this summer


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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

Get Rid of Undereye Bags with Dermalogica and Decleor

eye bagsThere 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.

Shave the right way

Dermalogica Close Shave Oil

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

 

Top Tips for Safe Tanning

safe-tanning-tipsJust 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!

The ‘must-have’ summer holiday essentials

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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.

Waxing Styles and What to Ask For

bikini waxIf 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.