Pure Beauty - The Lichfield Beauty Salon

Fantastic Treatments in a fabulous salon with only the best Products and the very Best Beauty Therapists!
 
Health and Happiness, Life and Fashion

Healthy food shopping the savvy way

 , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 0

www.freedigitalphotos.net

We are constantly seeing more and more reasons to eat more healthily, but it isn’t always the cheapest option. Don’t let the cost put you off, instead look at small changes you can make so you can then reap the rewards.

Get the basics in
If your kitchen cupboard is well stocked you will always have a fantastic meal at hand, even when the fridge is looking bare.

Tinned tomatoes, olive oil, sardines and tuna, curry paste, coconut milk, pulses, stock cubes and Marmite are great staples. Add a collection of herbs and spices, rice, pasta, flour and noodles and you will be on your way to having a basic, but versatile kitchen that will keep you away from the local take away.

Plan your meals
Boring maybe, but planning your meals for the week can ensure you get a balanced diet and don’t over spend and then waste food. It is amazing just how much food is put in the bin due to over-buying.

Make a shopping list
Once you have your weekly meal plan, write a shopping list and stick to it. Whether you shop online or in-store, try not to be tempted by impulse purchases or special offers. Buy what you need and nothing more.

Buy a chicken
Chicken is a healthy meat option and you get the most for your money if you buy the whole bird. From a whole chicken, you’ll get two breasts, two thighs, two drumsticks as well as the carcass and wings that can be used for making stock. Plan what you are going to make and you will find stir fries, curries, casseroles and sandwiches will be easy, delicious and affordable.

Buy cheaper cuts
This isn’t for everyone but choosing a cheaper cut of meat, such as braising steak, shin or shoulder, can make a great meal for less if you have the time to cook it for longer and add more seasoning.

Go veggie
Going veggie is good for your pocket and health. Meat and fish tend to be the more expensive food items on a shopping list but not always the most healthy. Adding vegetables and pulses to traditional meat dishes like curries and casseroles could make difference to how much you spend and how well your jeans fit and complexion looks.

Cut down on ‘so called’ luxuries
Let’s face it, many of us buy fizzy drinks, crisps, biscuits and cakes which aren’t good for us and can make our bills soar. Go for sparkling water and fruit juice, make batches of flapjack and granola bars and freeze smoothies for an alternative to ice cream.

Shop at the end of the day
You will find most supermarkets discount their fresh items at the end of the day. If you time your visit right and get to the reduced to clear shelf before everyone else, there are saving to be made. Make sure you check the use-by dates and only buy something you will eat or it is a false economy.

Shop around
As well as supermarkets, consider going to independent stores, farm shops and markets for variety and value when it comes to fresh goods.

Use vouchers and loyalty cards
Some people don’t like their every move being tracked, but there are some great store reward systems out there that give money off and if you save them all year, your Christmas shop can be free. Vouchers from magazines and newspapers, money off coupons and freebies might seem cheap but if they save you money and allow you to try new, healthy ideas, why not give it a go?

Happy shopping and healthy eating.

Health and Happiness

Peanuts – The Snack of Champions

 , , , , 0

peanutsPeanuts are one of the world’s most popular snacks and there’s no doubt that they taste fantastic (especially when teamed with a cold beer or G&T!). However, there are also several health benefits to eating peanuts on a regular basis so we thought we’d take a look at them so that you don’t feel so guilty next time you reach for a packet of KP!

Fat

Yep, believe it or not, the fats within peanuts are actually good for you. Peanuts are rich in monounsaturated fats, the type of fats which keep your heart healthy – in fact, one small study by scientists in the USA suggested that the consumption of peanuts on a regular basis would reduce the risk of heart disease by up to 22%

Antioxidants

It’s easy to think that antioxidants are only found in things such as fruit and veg, but it’s ALSO easy to forget that a peanut is actually a legume, not a ‘true’ nut and therefore contains high levels of oleic acid. Oleic acid is an incredibly powerful little compound which has been associated with lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of breast cancer, making your night time snack all the more appealing.

Flavanoids

Flavanoids are another celever little component of peanuts which have been shown to reduce inflammation, have anti-bacterial properties and modify the effects of aging, amongst a whole host of other things, and peanuts have been shown to be packed with them. This means that, while you snack, you’re actively improving your chances of living to old age AND looking good while you get there!

Gallstones

Another thing that these wonderful little beans do is prevent the development of gallstones, when eaten regularly as a part of a balanced diet. The research has been carried out on over 80,000 women over the course of twenty-odd years and the results show that you can decrease your risk of gallstones by 25% by regularly indulging in peanuts.

Weight Gain

Although peanuts are relatively high in calories, they’re actually really beneficial to weight loss. A 28-month study involving 8,865 adult men and women, found that the subjects who ate nuts at least two times per week were 31% less likely to gain weight than the subjects who never or almost never ate nuts. And out of the subjects who gained weight, those who never ate nuts gained, on average, almost half a kilo MORE than those who ate them frequently.

Health and Happiness

Keep your hands and nails in tiptop condition

 , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 0

www.freedigitalphotos.netDo you have brittle or damaged nails?

Are your hands dry and chapped?

Did you wish things were different?

Achieving strong and healthy nails might seem impossible, but if you take a little of time it really isn’t.

You might currently be making some easy mistakes that are contributing to the poor health of your nails but you don’t even know it.

If you want healthy nails that are strong, grow fast and look great then we have all you need to know to make it happen.

Tidy up regularly
Your nails are soft when you come out of the bath or shower so this is the best time to trim or file them. Use clean manicure clippers to trim your nails straight across for a clean, smooth finish.

Choose your files carefully
The old-fashioned orange emery boards are generally considered to be too harsh for our nails. They can cause fissures and cracks that lead to breakage and tears. Instead, go for a file that is smooth and fine. File in one direction only, and do it slowly and evenly to reduce risk of breakage.

Don’t share nail files
Did you know that the innocent nail file is actually a porous germ-trap? Well it is, so keep yours to yourself and replace it once a month.

Don’t cut cuticles
The biggest manicure tip we can offer you is never to cut your cuticles all the way back. Cuticles are the barrier that protects against bacteria and infection, which means you do not want them to be removed altogether.

Use cuticle oil
We will let you into a secret; cuticle oil is key to healthy nails. Cold temperatures and exposure to chemicals in nail polish and removers can weaken your nails. Cuticle oil can help repair damage and keep them looking hydrated and healthy. This can also help avoid hangnails; the torn, painful skin you can get at the root of fingernails.

Go with a base coat
You might think that the colour of nail varnish is the most important thing about how your nails looks but it’s the base coat that matters the most. You don’t see the base coat but it is essential to use it to ensure your nails stay healthy and nourished. Applying nail polish directly without a base coat can leave your nails looking colored and grey tinged.

Apply a new topcoat every other day
Whilst you don’t have to change your polish everyday, it will start to look less than perfect in a short amount of time. If you want your nails to get attention for the right reasons, you need to be sure to apply a new topcoat every other day. Topcoats can lose their luster pretty quickly, which distracts from the appearance of your nails so look after your manicure or go bare and simply mositurise.

Keep your nails dry and clean
Dry, clean nails are less likely to gather bacteria, fungus and other germs from developing. Use a gentle soap, clean towel and great mosituriser.

Moisuturise
Nails need to be moisturised throughout the day to keep them smooth and supple. Nails can crack, peel, and become brittle if they are dehydrated. Keep a moisuturiser in your handbag, kitchen and bedroom and apply as required.

Lots of water, rubber gloves when washing up and keeping warm when you are outside will all help keep your nails in tiptop shape.

Life and Fashion

A Proper Bedtime Routine

 , , 0

SleepSleep is one of the most important factors in maintaining good health and allowing your body to heal, but it’s not always as simple as falling into bed and nodding off. Sleep can be an elusive mistress for many of us, and in fact it’s estimated that up to a third of the UK population suffers with insomnia and sleep problems. Getting into a proper sleep routine isn’t just important for babies; we grown-ups also benefit greatly from a good night time routine, and we’ve got some tips to help.

Caffeine

Caffeine can be beneficial in some ways, but it can be your enemy when sleep is eluding you. Try limiting your caffeine intake for at least three hours before bed to limit the effects and stop you from lying in bed, eye balling the ceiling for hours on end.

Food

There’s always the temptation to indulge in a pre-bedtime snack, but filling yourself up just before bed can be a real no-no. Loading your digestive system with extra work when your body is trying to switch off is a sure-fire way of keeping you awake and can contribute to acid reflux and other digestive problems.

Switch Off

So many of us are guilty of staying attached to our devices right up until we go to sleep, but evidence shows that phone and tablet usage can prevent our bodies from producing the hormone which induces sleep. Try to put down the phone for at least an hour before sleep and try reading or listening to music instead.

Wind Down

Getting yourself physically prepared for sleep can help to set the wheels in motion. Having a bath in Dermalogica Hydro-Active Mineral Salts, which contain lavender, sandalwood and clary sage to help you relax and follow a cleanse, tone and moisturise routine for you face and you’ll feel ready for bed in no time.

Sanctuary

Treat your bedroom like a sanctuary – limit electricals whilst in the bedroom, make sure your bed is made and keep lighting low. Use a room spray which contains lavender to give you an olfactory boost and try a white noise machine to stop your mind from ticking over instead of relaxing.

Health and Happiness

The secrets for eating for shiny hair and glowing skin

 , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 0

ID-10012078When it comes to skincare products, we all have go to lotions and potions we love. Whilst vitamin C packed products can help us achieve luscious locks and bright skin, the real key to looking great lies in what you put into your body.

There’s no denying that the health of our skin, hair and nails is linked with what we eat and drink. A diet that is high in antioxidants foods, as well as vitamins, minerals, fluids and good fats, plays a vital role in the appearance and health of all these things.

Yellow peppers equal a radiant complexion
Research by the British Journal of Nutrition revealed that women who ate a higher amount of green and yellow vegetables, which contain vitamin C, had fewer wrinkles, particularly those pesky crow’s feet. One yellow bell pepper contains more than double the daily requirement of C, which is more than the infamous glass of orange juice we all reach for. Go for the brightest peppers as these are packed with the most nutrients, especially the powerful antioxidants that stimulate collagen production and protect the skin from the dangerous free radicals that damage it.

You can of course get Vitamin C from eating eating broccoli, kale, cantaloupe melon, strawberries, kiwi fruit, mango and oranges.

Unleash the power of almonds
Not many people know this, but these bland looking nuts are packed full of magnesium; a key nutrient for ensuring nail resiliency and strength. It is easy to know if you are deficient in this mineral as you’ll see ridges on your nails, known as Beau’s lines, something none of us want.

Almonds also come loaded with protein, an essential building block for healthy nails and hair and consuming good sources of protein is essential for strong, healthy nails.

Pumpkin and sunflower seeds, quinoa and whole grains are all high in magnesium and contain protein, too. So add them to your shopping list and experiment with your cooking.

Oily fish is a must
Oily fish like salmon, anchovies, sardines and mackerel are fantastic for health on so many levels as they are some of the best food sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which our bodies can’t produce. These fats are key to tip top brain and cardiovascular health and helps us achieve great skin, too. Not only do they lubricate internally, they also keep your skin moisturised and young looking.

If you don’t fancy fish but want to capitalise on the benefits of these essential fats, go for other sources, like walnuts and flaxseed instead.

Get shiny hair with eggs
Eggs are powerhouses rich in protein and biotin, a B vitamin that is essential for hair growth and scalp health. Biotin helps produce keratin, the hair’s main protein, so enjoy them boiled, poached or scrambled and see the shine come out.

If eggs aren’t for you, then you can supplement your diet with other protein-rich foods such as poultry, meat, beans, nuts and whey protein. Almonds, avocado and salmon are also rich in hair-healthy B vitamin so be sure to eat some everyday if you want to look, and feel, your very best.

Go for it, what have you got to lose?

Decleor, Dermalogica, Health and Happiness

The Power of Aloe Vera from Decleor and Dermalogica

 , , , , , , , , 0

Aloe VeraAloe Vera has been used in beauty preparations for hundreds, possibly thousands of years, and it’s well-known for its soothing, calming properties for the skin. Both Decleor and Dermalogica have products in their ranges which contain aloe, and we thought we’d take a look at the best of the bunch.

Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner

This toner from Dermalogica is actually in spray form and contains aloe vera to soothe and repair the skin. It also contains lavender and balm mint to actively rehydrate the face, as well as Sodium PCA for moisture binding. It is suitable for all skin types and is especially good when sprayed onto the face after shaving, to close the pores and protect against razor-burn.

Decleor Post-Wax Double Action Gel

Waxing is a fantastic, long-lasting method of hair removal but can also cause damage to the skin leaving it feeling sore and irritated. That’s why Decleor have used ale vera in their Post-Wax Double Action Gel to soothe the skin and reduce the redness associated with waxing. The unique formula also minimises hair regrowth, reducing the frequency with which you’ll need to wax, with ongoing use.

Dermalogica Cooling Masque

Acne is a condition which can be tricky to treat – outbreaks can leave the skin feeling hyper-sensitive, but using the wrong product can make everything worse. The Dermalogica Clear Start system is specifically formulated for use with acne-prone skin and contains aloe, amongst other ingredients, and it soothes the skin and reduces inflammation without causing further irritation.

Dermalogica Environmental Control Deodorant

The armpits are an area which are often neglected, but between regular hair removal and chafing fabric, there’s a real risk of soreness under your arms. Dermalogica’s Environmental Control Deodorant not only contains powerful botanicals and bactericides to neutralise the bacteria which causes body odour, it also contains aloe and chamomile to keep the area cool and soothed.

Dermalogica Post Shave Balm

Shaving, like waxing, is a convenient method of hair removal, but can also leave the skin feeling sore and under duress. This post-shave balm from Dermalogica is designed not only to soothe the skin using aloe, but also contains salicylic acid and a unique blend of other ingredients to prevent ingrown hairs and control excess sebum, making this a powerful, multi-function product.

Health and Happiness, Skincare Advice

Top Tips for Glowing Winter Skin

 , , , , , , , , , , , , 0

www.freedigitalphotos.net

We know it’s still winter and the sun keeps hiding behind deep, dark clouds but you can still have glowing, healthy skin whatever the weather.

We have some easy to follow tips that will have you looking, and feeling, a million dollars before spring arrives.

Go pro with sunscreen
You’ve heard it a million times, but wearing sunscreen everyday is the easiest way to look younger. It’s easier to prevent sun damage than fix it, so no slacking over the winter months because the rays can still be strong especially when they reflect off of buildings and water. The Dermalogica Daily Defence Block is a multi-tasking, light-weight daytime lotion that defends against skin ageing and a must-have even when it is raining.

Take a dairy break
Most dairy products, even the organic ones, contain hormones that stimulate the oil glands and pores, which can lead to acne. These hormones tend to be concentrated in fat, so go for the skimmed options if you must have dairy and watch out for hidden sources in many ready meals and processed foods.

Get your zzzzzzz
It’s called beauty sleep for a reason. Your body’s cellular renewal takes place when you sleep and this is when your skin gets the nutrients and hydrating ingredients it needs to look, and feel, good. At least three nights a week get those magic eight hours and you will feel the benefit, not only with your skin but your mood and energy levels too.

Use a serum
These were once considered a luxury, but a small amount of serum on your skin is a must have. Many contain antioxidants that help the skin falling foul to free radicals and stress is a good choice and will boost collagen so your skin has a firm, youthful appearance. For best results, apply to freshly cleansed skin and of course follow with an SPF moisturiser to lock in hydration.

Snack on watermelon
Watermelon is a lycopene-rich food and as such eating it can help reduce damage and redness caused from sun exposure, prevents future wrinkling and possibly even lowers skin cancer risk. Aim for one cup a day, which isn’t hard as it is so delicious and as well as being eaten alone it can be used in smoothies, salads and sorbets.

Go for glasses
As well as looking stylish, sunglasses protect against lines and wrinkles. The skin around your eyes is the thinnest on your body and where you’ll most likely see the first signs of aging. Each time you squint from sunlight, you’re creating and deepening lines. Go for a pair of good quality, polarised glasses with a dark tint and ones that fully cover the eye area.

Drink more water
As well as clearing the toxins that cause inflammation and blemishes, water also helps transport oxygen and nutrients and to skin cells. This helps with hydration which makes the skin appear fuller and healthier. It is recommend you drink at least eight glasses of a day and if you want to jazz it up added slices of lemon, lime or ginger as well as ice.

Don’t mess with spots
Picking, even a little, at spots can cause permanent damage. Each time you press a pimple, it further inflames and distresses the skin. At the same time, bacteria is pushed deep inside the pore, and the oil glands burst, causing more damage. The result is more acne, discoloration, soreness and scarring. Use gentle products, don’t cover with tonnes of make up and don’t pick.

 

Decleor, Dermalogica, Health and Happiness

The Benefits of Flaxseed Oil

 , , , , , 0

Flaxseed oilIf you were to take all of the supplements that were recommended on a daily basis, there’s a good chance you’d feel as though you were rattling. There are, however, certain supplements which are hugely important and actually serve multiple functions for your body. One such supplement is flaxseed oil, which is usually taken as capsules, so we thought we’d take a look at just a few of the many benefits:

Protecting the Skin

Nothing is more effective in protecting the skin from skin cancer than a high-SPF sun lotion, but according to research, flaxseed oil can also help. Mice who were given regular flaxseed supplements were 63% less likely to develop melanoma, so while that’s not a reason to shun sun lotion, they’re a great supplement to take if you are a life-long sun worshipper.

Relieving Depression

If you’re prone to depression, taking flaxseed oil can help to reverse the symptoms. Researchers in Japan found that people suffering with depression were often deficient in two particular acids, both of which are found in flax and that flaxseed oil capsules were just as effective as anti-depressants that the doctor may prescribe.

Safeguarding the Liver

If you’re a regular drinker, there’s a good chance that your liver is showing some of the markers of liver disease. Giving up drinking altogether is obviously the only way to prevent further damage, but a recent study also showed that just 100mg of flaxseed oil per day could help to reduce their liver disease factors significantly.

Treating Skin Conditions

There are a number of products which can help with acne, rosacea and dry skin from the outside, but flaxseed oil contains a number of essential fatty acids which work from the inside to prevent these conditions as well. Taken alongside a targeted skin regime of suitable products, flaxseed oil can have your skin in tip-top condition in just a short time.

Shiny Hair and Strong Nails

Flaxseed oil is rich in Omega-3, which is essential for strong nails and healthy hair. To keep your hair clean, we recommend Dermalogica Shine Therapy Shampoo as well as Dermalogica Silk Finish Conditioner, and for string nails we’d suggest Decleor Ongles Nail Oil, alongside a flaxseed supplement, for optimum results.

Health and Happiness

The Essential Oil Lowdown

 , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 0

www.freedigitalphotos.net

Essential oils have been around for thousands of years to support health and well being. They are used for aromatherapy, in household and beauty products and are increasingly being used as natural medicinal treatments.

Essential oils are concentrated, aromatic plant extracts and offer a multitude of benefits that including easing stress and insomnia to helping aching muscles and pains.

We have done a bit of research and look at the most popular ones and how they benefit health and well being.

Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil comes from the leaves of the melaleuca alternifolia plant and has a strong, distinctive scent. It has anti-fungal, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, expectorant, insecticide and stimulant properties and can be used to treat a variety of infections and diseases.

Several drops, mixed with a carrier oil, can treat toenail fungus, dandruff, spots, warts, insect bites, and head lice. It also help clear chest congestion, eliminate body odour and improve oral health as well as being an effective insect repellent.

Lavender
Lavender is a popular, well known oil due to its sweet smell and versatility. It’s a calming oil that helps with anxiety, mood swings, insomnia and stress. It has skin healing and antiseptic properties that are perfect for dealing with minor burns, cuts, wounds, spots, sun burn, insect bites and stings. Many people don’t know this, but it has antiviral and decongestant properties that are brilliant for fighting colds and flu and it can be useful for relieving muscular aches, pains, spasms, headaches and even migraines.

Peppermint
There is no mistaking the strong, menthol aroma of peppermint oil which is found in products such as toothpaste, chewing gum and tea.

It’s powerful anti-inflammatory, astringent, anti-fungal, and antiseptic properties means it can help with stomach aches, digestive issues, heartburn, bad breath, headaches and even treat respiratory problems.

Emotionally, it can reduce anger, ease depression and combat stress and anxiety. If you massage a couple of drops into your temples and forehead it can alleviate headaches and save you taking strong painkillers.

Rosemary
Rosemary is used in cosmetic and housecleaning products but when used in aromatherapy it can boost memory and treat mood swings whilst reducing anxiety and stress levels.

It offers antioxidant, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve muscle pain, soothe digestive uses, fight vaginal infections and ease headaches. As it is a disinfectant, rosemary is great for oral health. Add a few drops of oil to a glass of cooled, boiled water and use it as a mouthwash to fight bad breath, prevent cavities and plaque build-up.

Roman Chamomile
This oil has a lovely, sweet scent reminiscent of straw and apples but don’t let the gentleness of the aroma fool you. Chamomile has amazing powerful anti-inflammatory properties and can help with many heath issues.

It is a great oil to use in the treatment of acne and skin that is red and inflamed. For anyone that is stressed, depressed, lonely or anxious, this oil can help bring a sense of calm and can also be used during times of anger or irritability.

It is a good idea to follow all advice when using any oil, check they are safe with certain conditions (such as pregnancy) and if you have any questions ask in your local health food shop owner and they will be very happy to assist.

Body Treatments, Decleor, Dermalogica, Health and Happiness

Give the Perfect Massage for Valentine’s Day

 , , , , , , 0

Valentine's Day MassageValentine’s Day is fast approaching and minds will be turning to what we can do for the ones we love. Buying lavish gifts of roses and chocolates is all very well, but taking the time to do things for one another is far more original and thoughtful. Helping your other half to relax and unwind with a personal massage is a lovely thing to do on Valentine’s Day, but there’s an art to getting it just right, so we thought we’d share some tips on how to make your massage a success.

Take a Warm Bath

Ask your partner to take a warm bath while you set up the room. This will give you a chance to get everything in place whilst they get clean and warmed up. Add a little Decleor Relax Intense Relaxing Shower Oil to the bath to aid relaxation and soften the skin.

Temperature

No-one wants to strip down in a cold room, and let’s face it; February is cold in most of the Northern Hemisphere! Make sure you put the heating on for a while or even better, give the massage in front of a roaring fire.

Set the Mood

Being able to relax whilst receiving a massage can really depend on your surroundings and asking your loved one to lay amongst discarded Legos while the kids bicker in the other room isn’t going to help anyone! Make sure you’ve got the house to yourselves (or the kids are in bed), light some candles and put on some relaxing music.

Use the Right Products

Choosing the right massage oil is really important – you’ll want something like Dermalogica Stress Relief Treatment Oil, which contains the right blend of essential oils which help to relieve stress and tension in the muscles. Warm the oil gently in your hands before applying it to the person on the receiving end.

Think About Your Hands

Massage is one of those things which looks easy to do but can actually be slightly tricky to get right. Don’t apply too much pressure but don’t tickle the receiver either! Use moderate pressure and long, sweeping strokes down limbs and across the back. Also, use different parts of your hands for different things – fingertips create direct pressure in areas of tension, while palms and even forearms can knead and sweep.

Communicate

At the end of the day, massage is personal – what you think is too much pressure may be too little or vice versa. Communicate with your partner in a gentle voice to make sure that it feels good at all times and you’ll be on to a winner!