Holiday Prep... Almost Complete

Now that I've had my hair cut (Aveda - more of that to come next week), my bikini wax (The Ritual Rooms - more of that next week too) it's time to get packing, and I'm not just talking about the clothes (although I must say that I'm particualarly pleased with my night-time outfits - cannot wait to be sipping vino blanco in the Beach Bar in Burgau... two more sleeps and I'll be there).

I digress. Two products that I've definitely be packing (aside from my Liz Earle Mineral Sunscreen) is Fekkai's Marine Summer Hair Beach Waves Spray and e.l.f.'s Super Glossy Lip Shine SPF15.

I'm loving this slickalicious gloss - it glides on to a nice tasty finish - think watermelon and not a hint of stickiness - quite delicious. And it's got a good SPF protection in it so you can continue to be a beach babe with the wet-lip look without compromising on your sun morals. Simples! (I have to stop saying that.)

While I pucker up good and proper, I'll be spritzing my hair into sexy, tousled locks with Fekkai's Beach Waves. Cameron Diaz, eat your heart out. It smells really fresh and coconutty (a bit like a Pina Colada - if that kind of thing flats your boat) and I'll take great pleasure in spritzing through my soon-to-be frazzled hair. In fact, the whole range is worth investing in if you're sunshine bound.

I'll paint my nails tonight in bright pink, natch (neons are in, dontcha know?) and tomorrow I'll finish off the grooming game with a quick spray tan. Lovely.

Fekkai Summer Hair range - Available from June 2009: Space NK, Selfridges, Brown Thomas and HQHair.com. £19 each.

e.l.f. cosmetics - The Super Glossy Lip Shine SPF 15 (£1.50) comes in 9 shades and are available from http://www.eyeslipsface.co.uk/

The Beauty Spot: Paula Dorf

In the spotlight this week is make-up artist and founder of Paula Dorf Cosmetics, the one and only, Paula Dorf!

Come find out what a high profile make-up artist thinks about the beauty market, what products she can't live without and why she decided to launch her own range of cosmetics. It's all so fabulous!

Who are you and what do you do?
I'm Paula Dorf. I was born in NY and I'm a make-up artist who has worked in the industry for over 25 years. I've lead the beauty industry by fashioning a mainstay of easy to apply make-up colours, products and “trick tools” embraced by celebrities, fashionistas, beauty authorities and most importantly, everyday make-up lovers who flock to Paula Dorf Cosmetics to pick up the latest must-have item.

How did you start in the beauty industry and how did do you get to where you are today?
It began in the 80’s when I was a make-up artist for a lot of the big rock stars in the US and did the make-up for their tours and concerts. I was finding it really difficult to find the perfect foundation brush for my job. I wanted a brush that when used with any foundation; would provide a long lasting finish on the skin and withstand the harsh stage lighting and heat. However, I didn’t want the application to look too mask like and cakey. Because of this (and because I’m a perfectionist!) I decided to try and create my own. I went to a nearby art store, bought some artists brushes and just started cutting them up to create the perfect shape I needed and that was how my range started – we now have products for eyes, lips, cheeks, bases etc.

Can’t live without beauty item(s)?

Some good quality make-up brushes – just pick a few key one’s such as a good blender brush for the eyes, a cheek brush and a good all round face brush. I’m a big fan of primers for the face – they kind of act like your skin’s base coat and give you more of a professional, polished finish. You should always find time for a quick dab of blush. I like to use a creamy formula such as my Cheek Color Cream in Peek A Boo as it gives a nice dewy effect. A beautiful peachy shade, it adds a fabulous flush to the cheeks but also works wonderfully on the lips if you have forgotten your lip gloss! And mascara - just one coat will instantly open the eyes and lift the face.

Describe a day in your life
I can honestly say, my life is so varied that no two days are the same. I can be working behind the scenes on a TV show one day and the next, I might be in the lab developing new products!

What are your thoughts on the beauty industry at the moment (trends, financial climate, organic, natural products, Dr brands etc)?
There's no denying that it's tough out there in the cosmetic market right now and I don't think we will see much change for the next few months or perhaps at least even until the end of the year. I do think that consumers are re-evaluating their purchasing power right now and are wanting more value for money, better quality of products that last, rather than buy a handful of cheaper items. And I think we will also see a trend for consumers wanting to use multi-purpose products. The beauty industry is such a saturated market and I think that you have to create products that consumers really want to use and continue to use again and again.

What are your brand’s philosophies, and how do you put them into practice on a daily basis?

My brand philosophy and registered phrase is Become Your Own Makeup Artist®.

Name some hero products in the range.
Paula Dorf Eye Primer, Paula Dorf Foundation Brush and Paula Dorf Transformer and just a handful of make-up brushes. They can really extend the life of your make-up.

Greatest achievement to date?

There are so many highlights over the last 25 years. As the years have gone by, I’ve been lucky enough to work with a long list of celebrities and on some really great TV shows in the States and also find the time to create my own makeup range! I’ve been honoured to receive 4 Allure Magazine Best of Beauty Awards for my products. Also, I’m thrilled to have patents on 2 of the brushes in my collection: Paula Dorf Eye Transformer Brush and Paula Dorf Cheek Cream Brush.

Hopes for the future?
To be in the industry for another 25 years!

Buy Paula Dorf in the UK by visiting www.SkinBrands.co.uk or call 020 8997 8541

Zoom to Zuneta

From today Zuneta.com has launched an new promotion that offers any customer that spends over £30 a FREE Butter London Nail Varnish, which has a value of £10.

It's one of my fave beauty etailers so do click on - what a great offer.

www.zuneta.com

Hard work doesn't stop at the neck

dr brandt microdermabrasion for the face has gained a cult following and, as if by magic, now Space NK introduces the new dr brandt microdermabrasion body exfoliating cream. Super sleek skin here we come... just in time for summer.

We all know (or should know) that the skin acts as a natural, protective barrier and is constantly exposed to harsh elements and environmental stress, and while a meticulous skincare regime may be a daily essential for the face, the body tends to get neglected - tsk, tsk. The body, just like the face, can show imperfections and signs of ageing, which is why regular exfoliation is essential to help stimulate cell renewal and give the skin a smoother and more youthful looking appearance.

dr. brandt microdermabrasion body effectively polishes dead skin cells away on the body, instantly revealing smooth, radiant, healthy skin. Massage the formula into every inch of your skin and let the soothing, antioxidant ingredients (including lavender, geranium, green and white tea) work their magic.

You'll be thankful when you feel confident enough to strut your stuff on the beach.

dr brandt microdermabrasion body £34.00
Available from May 2009 exclusively at Space NK stores
www.spacenk.com
Mail order 0208 740 2085

A must for make-up bags everywhere

I've been admiring this product in magazines and blogs across the globe.It's so cool it hurts but how the heck do you use it? And more to the point, why would you want to use it? It's far too nice.

To coincide with Chanel's counter launch in Selfridges, Oxford street, the brand will launch a limited edition collection called London Madness, designed by their Global Creative Director, Peter Philips.

The collection exhibits Philips' love of London and will include pillarbox red colours and Union Jack motifs, as seen here on this gorgeous highlighter product.

£52, available exclusively from Selfridges in May.

The next best thing...

As I'm presently dieting to get into my bikini... ON FRIDAY (ARGH!) I am avoiding anything sweet or remotely fattening like the plague. It's proving quite tough and my mind constantly wanders to images of bars of Galaxy and fruit scones with clotted cream.

To keep my mind off the sweet stuff, I'm using philosophy's coconut frosting salt scrub (£20). Not only does it smell sugary sweet, it's also helping to get my body ready for my imminent trip to the sun.

Jump in a warm shower and cover your body with the sweet treat (a bit like icing a cake) and gently massage it into key areas; thighs, bottom and tummy area.

Towel dry and ogle your firm frame. A well deserved, guilt-free beauty treat.

The coconut frosting range is available from John Lewis stores, Selfridges, hqhair.com and QVC.
Stockists: 0870 990 8452

Facial Fabulousness

I know I've banged on in the past that some face wipes dry out, and can also dry out your skin, but these babies, Vitamin E Gentle Facial Wipes from The Body Shop, are the top of the pile when it comes to wiping off the slap in fast forward.

I met up with my girlies last night and each and every one of us agreed that these wipes came out on top. Not only do they smell divine, they take off even the thickest of make-up (not mentioning any names) and are effectively your cleanse, tone and moisturise routine all rolled into one.

Here comes the ingredient science:

Vitamin E is a natural antioxidant that moisturises and helps to protect skin against premature ageing and environmental aggressors.

Wheat germ oil, a rich natural source of Vitamin E, moisturises, nourishes and helps to condition skin.

Glycerin effectively moisturises skin to help improve softness and maximize hydration.

Sold? I am.

Vitamin E Gentle Facial Cleansing Wipes £5.35
www.thebodyshop.co.uk

Crazylibellule and the Poppies

Just been looking on the Sephora website - it's a great place to find out about new brands on the beauty market. One that I've fallen in love with is Crazylibellule And The Poppies. The cult Parisian perfumer is known for its deliciously addicting scent solids encased in pretty lipstick-like tubes. Easy to apply and layer, the purse-sized scents allow you to dabble in fragrance mixing whenever your pulse points need some aromatherapy. With its wide range of addictive scents, this collection allows you to change fragrances as often as you change outfits. In other words, go crazy.

The Crazy Stick I love the most is the Poule de Luxe Vanilla Fruit Sorbet - the packaging is so cute and vintage and is said to smell like an orchard. How perfect for this time of year. Think crushed iris leaves and plump raspberries - delicious.

Can't wait for my next NYC trip - I know what my first stop is going to be.

$18
www.sephora.com

New Favourite Nail Shade

Spotted this Barry M Mint Green nail polish in Superdrug yesterday (and admit that a chum was wearing it last weekend) and just had to purchase. It's such a brilliant colour, completely affordable and gives a really good colour after 2 coats. It's perfect for my upcoming trip to Portugal when I shall wear it with pride as I sport a nice tan and several new maxi dresses.

Here comes the sun... I hope.

Nail colours £2.95

www.barrym.com

Soap On A Rope?

Yes, you read it right.

A soap. On a rope. How flipping retro, I love it.

Ok, it's not your average soap with attached string; it's from luxury fragrance house Aramis and they've creatively named it 'Body Shampoo On a Rope' which sounds far more upper crust. It's fragranced with the classic Aramis fragrance and will keep the man in your life smelling clean and with skin that is beautifully moisturised and hydrated.

I have little doubt that His Lordship would be hopping around with glee if I were to present this to him. Why? Men love simplicity, not fancy grooming gadgets.

Body Shampoo on a rope £13.70
Stockists: 0870 034 2566

Hot New Look

I'm all about experimenting when it comes to make-up (although you could say that I often veer on the side of safety by sticking to neutral colours like cream, beige and soft brown... boring!)

So, to shake things up a touch, I'm looking at the delicious Vibrant Trio (Apt, Monkey and Lucky) range from mineral make-up house, Bellapierre. It's the latest addition to their 'Get The Look' concept and is the ultimate in bold, bright and blinkin brill colour spectrum. Just think how sizzlin' those neon shades will look with a golden (and safe) tan.

With Bellápierre’s ‘Get the Look’ concept there is no compromise on colour; you can achieve a bright-eyed make-up effect that is guaranteed to turn heads and uses 100% mineral ingredients.

If, like me, you're new to this bright palette, come find out how to apply the colours with confidence.

Bellápierre’s Vibrant Trio look in four easy steps:

1. Prepare – Using a cotton bud, apply bellápierre make-up base to the upper eyelid, from lash-line to brow and a small amount just below the lower lash line.
2. Highlight – Using an Eyeshadow Brush apply ‘Money’ Shimmer Powder to the brow bone and tear duct area.
3. Base – Apply ‘Apt’ Shimmer Powder to the eyelid blending upwards.
4. Get the Effect – Using an Eyeshadow Brush blend ‘Refined’ Shimmer Powder in, starting at your upper lash line. Create a V shape on the outer corner of the upper lid, blending upwards. Blend the colour into the lash line so that the eye liner disappear.

As the meerkat says in that annoying car insurance advert, "Simples."

To view the entire bellápierre range and for stockists:
Visit www.bellapierre.com or call 0800 0234 190

The Beauty Spot: Leonie Ellyatt, Manuka Life Yoga

In the spotlight this week – Leonie Ellyatt, Founder, Manuka Life Yoga. Is anyone else noticing a theme to these interviews? Everyone is extremely attractive and succesful!

Read on and enjoy the musings of Leonie, who heads up the beautifully made Manuka Life Yoga range... Once you try her products for size you won't go back.

1. Who are you and what do you do?
Leonie Ellyatt and I am the founder of Manuka Life a yoga and lifestyle company.

2. What is your background and why did you decide to set up Manuka Life?
My background predominately comes from being a personal trainer. I set up a personal training gym 10 years ago and could see that there was a gap in the market for good quality, flattering, affordable clothing for women.

3. What are the brand’s philosophies?
Producing high quality, affordable yoga clothing for the real women. Paying attention to the smallest of details.

4. Describe a day in your life…
I wake at 6.30am and get my 3 children ready for school. I am normally at my desk by 8.45am - the day is always very busy, my role is predominantely new developments. Just before 4.00pm I leave the office to do the school run. When we get home my children unwind and I will sneak off for a quick run. Twice a week I go to a yoga class when they are in bed. I am usually in bed by 10pm, I always clear my email box at night so I can start fresh in the morning.

5. What advice would you give to anyone who wanted to become an entrepreneur like you? Was it difficult to get started?
Believe in your product. It is difficult to get started that’s part of the challenge, however if you truly believe in your product and love what you do you will ride through testing times.

6. Who else do you admire in the yoga/wellbeing industry?
Georgie Wolfinden the founder of glowgetter.co.uk.

7. Favourite beauty product?
Uhma Nagri rose body oil.

8. Favourite items in the Manuka Life collection?
Our classic yoga pants, they are suitable for all activities – yoga, running, school runs, relaxing at home (I even sleep in them!)

9. What are your hopes for the future of Manuka Life?
That we continue to grow, which will enable us to keep having fun with what we do and support our chosen charitable causes.

10. How can readers buy Manuka Life yoga wear?
http://www.manukalife.com/ and all John Lewis stores nationwide.

What are you waiting for?

This Just In...

If you're NYC based (I don't envy you, honest... humpf!) then get yourself a ticket to what is set to be the hottest ticket on the island.

The Beauty Director of Vogue US will be leading a panel discussion on 'The Road to Eco-Friendly Beauty' on Tuesday 21st April and will feature people like Sylvia Chantecaille (Founder of the delicious, lady-loving brand that is Chantecaille), Bryan Meehan (the brains behind Nude Skincare) and Yael Alkalay (the Founder of the divine Red Flower brand that I was banging on about a couple of months back.)

It's a mere $25 to get in and you get a lovely green goody bag just for showing up - woo hoo!

I so wish I could be there. Can someone please tell me how it goes?

Remember, you read it here first. RSVP essential as space is limited.

Fred's Restaurant
Barneys, New York
Madison and Sixty-First
Tuesday 21st April - 8.30am-10am
RSVP Barneys.com/VOG

Creatively Clinique

One last posting before I die of hunger, but how could I press 'Shut Down' before telling you about this?

Launching 1st May exclusively to Selfridges nationwide (London, Manchester and Birmingham) Clinique will get in on the 100th birthday celebrations of Selfridges on London's Oxford Street by creating a limited edition Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion and Dramatically Different Moisturizin Gel in a 200ml size, with exclusive packaging and a sterling silver-plated Clinique key ring.

Very nice, very nice indeed.

Clinique's best selling Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion is the final stage of the iconic Clinique 3-Step Skin Care System (a must if you want great skin). One is sold every 3.7 seconds in the world. That stat speaks for itself. Get into the party spirit and pick one up - go on, you've got a month to save.

Limited Edition Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion/Gel 200ml £39.15
Available at Selfridges nationwide from 1st May.

Beautiful - From Your Head to Your Toes

Hold up, this ain't no beauty product? Quite right, dear readers, it isn't. But heck, these are pretty beautiful specimens, no?

I know I'm acting like a petulant child today but I want them. Now.

Yes, these super cute Mini Marc Jacobs pumps are not only fashion gold, they also feature an adorable mouse design at the toe end. The only bummer is, there're only available in little girl sizes...

I reckon I could squeeze my size 4s in there, don't you?

The Shop at Bluebird, 350 Kings Road, London, SW3 5UU
T: 0207 351 3873

Missoni GWP Love

I love this. I want this. And I won't stop until I have it in my grasp.

What it is, I hear you cry? It's the fab GWP (Gift With Purchase, keep up!) from Missoni, of course.

In true Italian style, the limited edition Missoni Acqua Spring set is complete with a 50ml Eau de Toilette and luscious gold cosmetic bag, spiffingly designed with the Missoni zig-zag signature and fringing finish. To die for, I tell you.

The perfume's pretty good too - it's a vibrant, sunny splash of the good life. My fave? Crystal Turquois - think Tuscan iris, jasmine and glimmering sunshine - the warmth of the sun hitting the open water... sheer elegance and luxury. That's got my name written all over it.

And let's face it, it's the closest I'm ever going to get to Margherita and her shimmeringly stylish life.

It's not on counter until May so make a diary note pronto.

Missoni Acqua 50ml EDP and 50ml Body Lotion £40.00
STOCKISTS – 0870 034 2566

Beauty Bloggers Unite

Having followed the blog of a certain beauty queen from across the pond since the beginning, I can now tell you that we've connected and shared in the beauty love.

Yes, she of Confessions Of A Beauty Addict and Beauty Confidential fame, Nadine Haobsh, AKA http://jolienadine.com/blog/ or as the New York Post dubbed her, "the poster girl for the blogger generation" has very kindly linked into the Beauty Scoop. Check it out here.

I'll update you on our mutual beauty musings shortly... I promise it'll be worth the wait.

Bathe in Chanel No.5

No, I'm not suggesting that you empty out your precious fragrance into the tub, I'm actually talking about the launch of Chanel's limited edition Velvet Bath Milk.

Ok, I know we're living in tough economic times but a girl needs a wee treat now and again. At £42, this product will deliver endless hours of fragrant joy and will help soothe and moisturise your overworked body. Yes, ok, it's a tad expensive but you need something to cheer yourself up and I think this is just the tonic. Think vanilla, neroli and jasmine to name but a few of the divine ingredients.

It's maybe best to hide it from your other half though, it might be a tad difficult to explain the benefits of such luxury to he who counts every penny (not mentioning any names, His Lordship...)

Happy bathing.

Available from Chanel counters nationwide.

Chantecaille - I Do Love Thee

I've fallen in love again... with Chantecaille. I've always had a bit of a thing for the brand, not only because the product is so flippin' good and the packaging so slick in all of its purple finery, but also because the brand and its owners, mother/daughter team Sylvie and Olivia, conjour up such visions of glamour and NYC/Hamptons-esque grandeur... you've gotta love it).

I've used one of their products, Total Concealer, for years now but recently I'd become sidetracked as I tried new, and not so remarkable alternatives. Fishing around in my make-up bag this week, I came across a pot of TC and decided to give it a whirl. It comes in a kind of paste pot so I decided to apply it with a Ruby & Millie retractable lip brush. Different, yes, but it's the best, most precise way to apply the product... and make-up rules were made to be broken, ladies.

It really is a wonderful product, it's smooth and and doesn't sit on top of the skin, instead it sinks in to give a real glow and somehow revitalises the skin. I use it on my eye bags and to banish the redness around my nose - it's a 'can't live without' product.

I couldn't find a precise price point for this product but if I remember correctly it's approx £29. Check out their counter at Fenwicks. It's old school glamour combined with chic modern technology personified.

Bobbi Brown UK Website Shout Out

The fabulous Bobbi Brown UK website celebrates its 2nd anniversary this Sunday. Instead of raising an Easter egg to its remarkable success (which I'll do anyway!) I thought it would be better, and more beneficial for you beauty lovers, to watch some great footage of the legendary artist in action.

Check out how to create the perfect lips here

Also, see Bobbi’s inspiration for her Limited Edition Platinum Collection here

www.bobbibrown.co.uk

So, we've got girly fun and beauty education all rolled into one! x

Dolce, Dolce, Dolce

Yes, as Carrie Bradshaw once said, "I know all the Italian I need to know: Dolce, Dolce, Dolce."

And boy, was she right. Check out this delicious new rainbow bright eyeshadow compact from Dolce & Gabbana's highly anticipated new make-up line, inventively named, The Make-Up. The collection (with Scarlett J as their cover girl, remember?) is a collaboration with the legendary make-up artist Pat McGrath and features 11 products that you'll be fighting your fellow beauty lovers for. Apparently the natural shaded collection, with flashes of brightly coloured brilliance, is inspired by the Italian landscape and the glamour and sophistication of 1950s.

If it's good enough for the Italians...

Available from Selfridges... now!
www.selfridges.co.uk

Illamasqua For Selfridges

Yet another gorgeous (and world exclusive) set to celebrate Selfridges 100th b'day. And check out the signature Selfridges yellow colour. I want!

Illamasqua, known for their amazing colour spectrum and theatrical take on cosmetics, created the varnish, called Self, which will come in a bespoke, luxury gift box, along with their top-selling Nail Varnish Boosh - the perfect combination to create stunning night-time nails featuring the Illamasqua tip.

There are just 200 of these gift boxes, available exclusively from Selfridges beauty halls from May 2009.

ILLAMASQUA EXCLUSIVE NAIL VARNISH SET
£25
www.selfridges.co.uk

Scarlett Pops Her Cork For Moët

Wowsers. You must be living on planet Zog if you haven't seen these pics of Scar J hotting it up for champagne house, Moët & Chandon. Loving her style - and her gorgeous make-up... you could sleep on those lips!

The ads were shot by famed photographers Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott.

Frédéric Cumenal, President of Moët & Chandon said: “Scarlett Johansson was the obvious choice as our ambassador because she, like Moët, has a magical story to tell and makes people dream. She is a true icon of celebration — refreshingly spontaneous, generous, glamorous and she lives life to the fullest both on-screen and off.”

Too true, Frederic.

Demi Does Twitter

Not only have I developed a serious Twitter addiction http://twitter.com/beautyscoop but I've also become a tad keen on Mrs Kutcher (Demi Moore) and her funny and touching tweets as she travels across the globe with her man, Ashton. Here she is on set getting her slap done. I think it's cool because it's very rare to see a celeb in the 'getting ready' process. And it looks like she uses as many products as I do...

Don't ya just love it? Wondering also what make-up brand she's using? I need to get me some of that...

Until later x

BECCA Cosmetics - A Lesson in Good Make-Up

"The whole philosophy of BECCA is about creating a natural, flawless look. It's really about skin looking amazing - everything else is secondary."- Rebecca Morrice Williams, Founder.

Wise words from the founder of BECCA Cosmetics. I've championed the BECCA brand for many years now. Ever since one of my friends sent me an email after seeing a picture of me at a party saying: "Hey, how are you? And what make-up are you wearing?" I knew then that I was onto a winner.

BECCA Cosmetics hails from down under (that's Oz to the geographically incapable amongst you - i.e. me!) and was devised Rebecca, who in her former life was a make-up artist. She was frustrated by her own inability to find the 'perfect foundation' that would look natural, conceal blemishes, feel weightless on the skin and stay fresh all day so she set out to create it herself. The result is a range of skin-perfecting products that make it possible for ALL women to experience the ultimate pleasure of a flawless and radiant complexion. Yes, indeed. And her foundations and concealing products don't just come in three or four differing shades - BECCA has 34 concealer colours and 30 foundation shades. Additionally, they have seriously high SPF protection which is ideal for my pale Scottish skin.

Now it's not just bases and concealing products that they do - they also offer a full range of accompanying products like lip glosses, creme blushes, eyebrow powder (my desert island product!) etc...

Creme Blush in Rosebud (£22) is one of their most popular products and rightly so. It glides on and really helps make you look youthful, perky and dewy. It's a must if you're off for a night on the tiles, but is also equally powerful for a natural look that you can sport whilst wearing a sarong, your biggest sunnies as you sip your first Caiprinhia of the day.

Another brilliant product is the Shimmering Skin Perfector (£32) I had a make-over a while back at their stunning flagship store on Pelham Street (top pic) - it's a real must if you're in need of a large dose of 'me time'. One of their leading make-up artists from New York did my make-up and one of the products she used was SSP. She applied it over my foundation on areas like my cheeks, down my nose and around my hairline. I wasn't sure if this would make much differnce but upon looking in the mirror, I couldn't believe how much it helped lift and brighten my face. It made my skin look gorgeously healthy and completely flawless. I was the closest I'll ever be to having the J.Lo glow and boy was I happy. A must-buy product if ever there was one.

One last thing - I know, I've been babbling. The new Half Moon Brush (£30) which is constructed from the softest and the highest grade goat hair, hand layered with super fine white synthetic fibers for super sheer blending, buffing, highlighting and contouring (think bronzers, illuminators and mineral powders.) With a flat and wide design, the Brush is shaped to fit the contours of your face, neck, chest, and shoulders.

Can you tell that I love this brand?

BECCA London, 91A Pelham Street, London, SW7 2NJ, T: 020 7225 2501
www.beccacosmetics.com

SOS - Save Our Skin

You're going to have to bare with me until Friday on the blogging front as I'm a lady in demand. Well, kinda. I seem to have a very busy social calendar over the next few nights and so I'm blogging my beauty thang as and when I can. I promise that a full service shall resume forthwith!

Right, where was I? Oh yes, the fabulous new HydraQuench range from Clarins. When I was growing up I thought Clarins was only for the very rich, the very beauty conscious and for people like my mum (vain!). I was right...

Seriously though, at £14.68 for the Cream (which in grown-up money isn't that much) you can't afford to turn your nose up at this delicious little item. The Cream is one of 3 products in the collection and promises to save your skin from malnourishment and decay (my words, not theirs).

Soak up the SPF15 Cream, Moisture Replenshing Lip Balm and 10 Minute Cream Mask (for extra hydration) and watch the comments flood in.

If you were in LA people would be asking you who your surgeon was and saying things like "Get me some of what she's got. And make it snappy."

www.clarins.co.uk