London's Little Beauty Blog

Calling all AMAZE-ing beauty therapists!

2012-01-23T06:34:00.000-06:00

Are you someone very special? Do you have an absolute passion for the beauty industry and helping your clients on a truly holistic level? Would you like to work for a fresh and very dynamic award winning spa in Tonbridge, Kent?

Our wonderful receptionist Bonnie is off to pastures new, pursuing her career as a PA. We are very sad to see her go, but are very excited for her and her onward development in this field. We have no doubt 2012 will bring her some exciting opportunities and that she will be amazing at whatever she does in life!

So, this means we have a very rare opportunity for someone fabulous to join our friendly and professional team. Aquavie has built it's reputation as being one of the leading spa establishments in Kent, with clients regularly travelling down from London to visit us, as well as the occasional celebrity popping in to enjoy some pampering Aquavie stylie. So we are looking for someone that is truly passionate about the industry, their clients and their own development within their job role.

At Aquavie we are passionate about our therapists growing with our company. Nothing makes us more happy than to see our team blossom, advance and succeed. We will provide you with excellent one on one training, continuous support and an exceptionally professional environment for you to work and grow in. In return we expect you to be committed, hardworking, flexible, reliable and totally dedicated to the company and the clients we treat. Our standards are high, but so are the rewards if you choose a career path with us.

We have two positions available, both part time (working as a therapist and covering reception duties), but with regular opportunities to work over time. You will need to hold a UK recognised level 2 beauty qualification, with the desire to train in massage, if you haven't already. You must be available to work Saturdays as well as being very flexible when it comes to working extra hours and covering holidays. All of our full time members of staff, started their career with us in this way, so opportunities for full time employment may arise in the future.

If you think you have got what it takes, please contact our Spa Coordinator Miss Karina Mckenzie on 01732 353233 or by emailing her at info@aquavie.co.uk to request a recruitment pack. Please note our selection process includes a paper shift, interview/s and a requirement to complete a trade/skill set process.

Little Guru Launches The Sensei Beauty & Holistic Training Academy

2012-01-13T08:12:00.004-06:00

Does Little Guru ever sit still? The answer is no.

2012 is the year I am going to embark on something I have always wanted to do (aside from marrying Bradley Cooper that is), ever since I very first trained in Reiki many moons ago . My two passions in life are helping people heal and empowering others to find their own guiding light within.

When I initially trained in therapies, I found some really amazing schools and colleges. My massage tutor in particular was so knowledgeable and really passionate, I found her a very inspiring woman.

So after so many years in this industry, I am really excited to team up with my own Reiki master and spiritual tutor Beth Atkins and launch our new Beauty & Holistic Training Academy, The Sensei Academy. Beth has over 25 years in the industry as a practicing therapist and is also a fully qualified university and college lecturer, imparting her knowledge and wisdom in all things therapies, holistic health and social care.

I try and take a mindful outlook to everything I do in life, and The Sensei Academy will take a similar approach to teaching our students about working in the world of the beauty and well being industry. We will be launching in the spring, and will offer a wide range of accredited courses and workshops covering all sorts of subjects in the beauty and holistic industry (see a full list of the type of things we will be offering a little further down the page). The courses will be held in various locations in the South East. Including Tonbridge, Chatham and Maidstone in Kent, as well as in Greenwich and Nunhead in South East London. All of our tutors are experienced therapists and each hold a recognised teaching qualification. We can also travel to spas and salons throughout the UK providing one on one team training on site (please note there will be extra travelling charges and expenses to cover our costs).

If like me, you interested in walking an awakening path, then our 'Sensei Sensation' courses, devised and written by myself and Beth, may be of interest to you. They take a refreshing spiritual approach to training students in our own unique Eastern and Shamanic inspired Sensei treatments. These help both the practitioner and client to work on a much deeper soul level. These classes provide our students with a more thorough understanding of how when performing massage or facials you are actually working within the subtle energy patterns of the body, and it's imperative you have understanding of the role of the chakras, and aura, as well as a thorough knowledge of how certain products and massage mediums can enhance or effect your treatments. Obtaining this knowledge will help you work more effectively, setting you aside from your competitors as well as enhancing your clients experience of your treatments as a whole.

All of our Sensei Sensation Facial courses include a Organic Sensei Facial Kit which has been devised exclusively for the academy by one of London's top cosmetologists. A cosmetologist who has made bespoke skincare lines for celebrities such as the late Dame Elizabeth Taylor and has product lines in Harrods. Every essential oil and ingredient chosen, has been individually selected for their deeply energetic healing properties and skincare benefits, taking our Sensei Facials to new holistic healing levels.

Holistic Courses Available

Anatomy & Physiology
Anatomy & Physiology and Holistic Massage
Organic Facials
Sensei Sensation Facial Journey
Sensei Sensation Body Journey
Sensei Sensation Face & Head Massage (working with chakra's and meridian's)
Sensei Hot Stone Massage
Reiki Healing

Beauty Courses Available

Manicure & Pedicures
Gel Nail Application & Removal
Body Brushing & Detox Wrap Treatments
Inch Loss Treatments (Endorsed by Wrap Factor!)
Tanning
Eyelash Extensions
Indian Head Massage
Eyebrow and Lash Enhancements (tinting & shaping)

Workshops

Discovering Massage for Relaxation
Discovering Massage to help cancer patients
Basic Book Keeping for therapists
Basic Social Media for Therapists & Salons
Marketing for Therapists & Salons
Meditation for Relaxation & Stress Management
Understanding Chakras & Auras

The new Sensei website is being built as I write but you can follow us on Twitter for more information at @SenseiAcademyUK as and when it happens. If you would like to be added to our emailing list in the mean time, drop me a line at TheSenseiAcademy@gmail.com.

It's my absolutely passion to help all of our students enlighten their own career path with our knowledge, passion for the industry, humour and much love and support. I look forward to walking the path with you!

Sensei Scholars Seek Enlightenment.

Oz and The Beauty of Her Yoga

2012-01-08T07:02:00.001-06:00

For me 2012 started on a rather sad note. A wonderful woman by the name of Ozge, a bright, beautiful and amazingly spiritual soul, who touched the world with the brightest light and the most infectious laugh, passed away very suddenly whilst on a yoga retreat in India on New Years Day. It was a total shock to everyone that knew her.

Oz was one of the most dedicated, talented and wonderful Ashtanga Yoga instructors you could possibly meet and she will obviously be very sadly missed by all of her students and colleagues at Still Point Yoga London, where she was Co Director. The light of her teachings and her being as a whole, however will continue shine on brightly indefinitely.

The news of her passing sent me into a space of total reflection. My heart felt really heavy, and yet I knew if I could hear Oz's voice from different realms, she would be telling me to be still, to breathe deeply and to open my heart to the teachings the whole event was offering me. I spent much time meditating and asking for guidance.

Yesterday I came across this video, everything about it is beautiful. As I watched the girl awaken her body and soul to the glory of the day, through her dedicated yoga practice, I felt inspired, touched and at total peace. This is how Oz viewed yoga and the world as a whole.

She was a talented writer and you can read her blog here www.bubbleofhappiness.com, it will give you a little insight to the kind of person she was. Her love and dedication for yoga, opened up an amazingly special and loving space for others to come and share what her own yoga practice had taught her about herself, her journey and most importantly, how yoga could inspire others on so many different levels. She was passionate about sharing how regular practice can literally, change your life. Her Facebook page is now full of beautifully inspiring messages from all the people she touched over the years, messages from people from literally all over the world. The effect she had on everyone is awe inspiring, she walked with the softest steps and tried to guide others how they could do the same.

Oz's passing has brought me the gift of opening my heart to the understanding that, continuing to embrace love, compassion, patience, reflection and most importantly being true to ones self, can in fact bring the same level of understanding and clarity to others. Enabling them to open their own hearts to the series of lessons and teachings their own life path may bring them. The smallest act of kindness can in fact have the biggest effect. These small acts of kindness, experienced in union, then actually begin to make a real difference to our existence.

Thanks to Oz, I have dedicated 2012 to really advancing my own yoga practice, I want to spend more time learning to understand it on the deepest levels. Her passion and love for the practice has touched me in a way I cannot describe. I know it's also time for me to find a better work life balance (and for a workaholic that's a bit of a challenge). Life is a precious gift and it's here to be enjoyed, just like Oz, who was a precious gift to the world.

In both mine and Oz's belief system, Oz hasn't gone, but has simply returned to the light she once came. Her journey isn't over, it's actually just begun.

So shine brightly sweet Oz, the love and wisdom you were so passionate about sharing will continue to grow and grow as you had always wished. We all know that your special journey will continue, where ever you may be.

Om shanti xxx

Decleor has landed!

2011-12-10T06:57:00.001-06:00

After four years of wanting to bring it in to my spa, finally Decleor has landed at Aquavie! *happy dance*. Thing is, I am a bit of a fussy moo, and I didn't want to bring such a gorgeous luxurious brand into the spa until I felt we had a strong reputation and a high quality of treatment rooms, so we could do the brand justice.

Over the past 12 months I have spent a hell of a lot of time, money and effort into over hauling the entire spa, on a aesthetic level and on a professional level. January saw us completely knock down and rebuild our reception, and over the past few months we have been tweaking and re-arranging the treatment rooms. Yesterday I re-painted the bathrooms, had new sinks fitted and even put my hand to some fancy mosaic tiling!...who needs a man I ask you!

We now have a gift boutique in the reception area of the spa too, which will be extended over the coming months (watch this space). We not only sell lots of gorgeous skincare items and goodies, but we also have a selection of spiritual cards, jewellery (amazing handmade mala beads imported from Canada and Bali), candles and all things that sparkle!

Our beautiful handmade mala's can be purchased in store or online from our OM-line store :)

So the final touches to Aquavie's over haul, out with the old and in with the new - the new being Decleor!

The new facials will be available from January, I have my Decleor training immediately after Christmas and Karina follows suit a couple of weeks later. So if you fancy a little bit of Decleor magic, you no longer have to travel all the way to Bluewater to do so! You will also see some amazing Decelor goodies being Incorporated into my Elementals by Elizabeth too! (yumsome).

Balance Your Chakra's Aveda Stylie!

2011-11-29T07:57:00.001-06:00

Being a bit of an inspiring yogi and renowned among my friends as being a lover of all things spiritual, I was delighted and a little intrigued to discover that Aveda offer a range of Balancing Body Mists that have been devised specifically to balance and cleanse the human chakra's (energy centres of the body). Each blend (there are seven of them) relate to a different chakra and combine the ancient Indian healing philosophy of Ayurveda and a combination of essential oils to blend, soothe and balance.

Yesterday I found myself passing the Aveda counter in House of Fraser at Bluewater, so thought I would treat myself to one of these mists. In my spa I work intuitively a great deal and being a Buddhist I tend to meditate on a daily basis, so I was drawn to the Oil for chakra 6 (the third eye chakra). The third eye chakra is the centre of intuition, imagination and balance. It is a chakra that is used a great deal by intuitive healers and psychics.

I was advised by the friendly sales rep that the oil was a blend of organic petigrain, orange and geranium and it could be used as a body mist, a room spray or even a pillow spray at night. She also advised me it was a great choice to assist in meditation practice (sounded perfect).

Along with the oil I treated myself to a box of comforting tea, a pre-blended combination of peppermint and licorice root. I was told this would give me a boost of energy and aid digestion.

On my return home I sprayed just a couple of spritzes of the mist before my meditation practice, the room smelt divine and the scent seemed to last for hours. It was calming and refreshing at the same time. When I went to bed, I sprayed another couple of spritzes in the air above my head, I swear when I woke up at 3am due to a car alarm sounding, I could still smell the gorgeous aroma!

If you are new to chakra oils, and are not sure which mist to go for, the root chakra is always a good place to start. This chakra is your grounding chakra and helps process/filter energy through to your other chakra's (so it tends to work quite hard). There's never any harm in giving this chakra a little boost!

Chakra Body Mists retail at £26.50.

I borrowed hubby's cup for the cuppa!

We love Tiny Devotions Malas the most!

2011-11-22T07:56:00.002-06:00

People who know me personally, or for those who have met me in my spa, will know I simply love, love, LOVE my mala beads. My staff wear them as part of our Eastern themed uniform and I am never without my set, which were handcrafted and blessed by Buddhist monks. They are very precious to me.

These beautiful necklaces transcend cultures and religions and can be found in many different forms of tradition (most commonly linked to Hinduism and Buddhism). The word bead actually historically comes from the word prayer or to pray.

Mala's are used in prayer, meditation, yoga and as a means of centering oneself, reflection and healing. They help the wearer stay focused, grounded and present in the beauty of their own personal journey of life. Not only are they a very spiritual symbol, they are also incredibly beautiful to look at.

Tiny Devotions is a Canadian company founded by Diana Charabin, a lady who has developed her passion for making malas into a career. I fell in love with Diana's unique designs some months ago after discovering her website on the internet one day and I am now delighted to announce that Aquavie will become the first UK stockist of Diana's stunning designs!

Each mala is made with a different combination of rudraksha seeds and semi precious crystals, and each has it's own specific intention or healing quality (perfect for my little spa). I am hoping our selection of designer mala's will be in the spa in early December, I promise to keep you posted.

In the mean time, have a look at the Tiny Devotions lifestyle video above and see some of Diana's beautiful designs!

Mayfair's Spa Illuminata Review

2011-11-22T06:56:00.002-06:00

So a few weeks back I had the pleasure of being invited to enjoy some treatments at the beautiful Spa Illuminata in London's Mayfair. I knew of this spa, but unfortunately had never had the chance to go.

Tucked away on South Audley Street among pretty tea and antique shops, this spa is the flagship spa for the French spa brands Decleor and Cartia, launched by the founder of Decleor some years ago.

The initial impression of the spa as you walk towards it, is it looks beautiful. Set on a corner, with large floor to ceiling windows, decorated with huge promotional images from both of it's brands. The building looks grand and full of character. I can hardly wait to see inside.

On entering the spa you are met with the most gorgeous aroma, inviting, comforting and luxurious. I later learned from my therapist Gemma, that the scent arises from the spa's two steam rooms. It's delightful, and really sets you in a relaxed mindset before you have even stepped through the main part of the spa. The reception is gorgeous too. Displaying Decleor and Carita products in large display cabinets, with a Sheshido make up stand, full of various goodies to sample.

The reception staff are immaculately dressed, polite, friendly and welcoming. So far I am impressed. I'm shown to the main waiting area of the spa, which is down a small flight of tiled stairs, these are lit with tiny little lights and instantly create a soothing ambiance. I take a seat in the comfy chair, am offered a drink and I am then asked to fill in a short consultation form.

Soon after my therapist Gemma comes to meet me. She is young, well groomed and has a very professional manner. I had booked to have a Decleor Aroma Expert Facial and Full Body Massage, and I am really looking forward to having some well over due chill out time. Once in the treatment room (which is fairly small, but more than adequate for the treatments I am having), Gemma leaves me to disrobe and I get snuggled on the couch. The room is clean, warm and darkly lit, perfect.

I can only described the next two hours as totally blissful! Gemma was excellent in every way, she was clearly very knowledgeable, explained what she was going to be doing during my time on the couch, she was friendly, yet knew when to stop talking to allow me to relax. Her touch was firm and soft, and her massage techniques were nothing short of superb. Now I am a hard one to please when it comes to massage, being trained extensively in massage myself. I like a firm pressure, but I don't expect to be in pain during a regular massage treatment. Gemma had it just right. She managed to get in all my niggles and knots effectively, without making me wince once! I loved every second of the treatment.

The products themselves felt and smelt divine, and at one point during the facial I think I may have actually drifted off (absolutely unheard of for me!). My skin wasn't left feeling oily or sticky either, which is so often the case following a treatment. I had made a point of explaining to Gemma that I was going for dinner after my visit and unbelievably my hair looked untouched when I got off the treatment couch. Perfect, no frantic re-styling before heading off to the restaurant!

I was left to take my time to re-dress and I took this as an opportunity to inspect my skin. Truthfully, it looked amazing, really hydrated, smooth and much plumper. Fabulous.

I left the spa with two bags full of Decleor goodies to sample, after a lovely chat with the spa manager.

Now being a fairly large spa situated in swanky Mayfair, this is obviously a spa that has very high overheads and therefore the treatment prices are reflective of this. A 75 min Decleor Facial will set you back a pretty hefty £115.00 and a 60 min Massage is £90.00, I do however feel this is reasonable for a Central London spa.

Would I return? Yes I would, it is a luxurious treat but one that I feel is well worth the money!

For more details of other treatments and services on offer at Spa Illuminata you can visit their website.

My Little Pot Of Heavenliness!

2011-11-21T03:52:00.000-06:00

Winter well and truly appears to have kicked in, so I am upping the anti when it comes to my facial routine. As the seasons change I always swap things around a bit and add or replace items that are no longer suitable for the harsher winter months.

As you know I am a big fan of the Spa Fabulous Skincare Range by celebrity facialist Neena Trehan. Her hero moisturiser, A Little Pot Of Heaven, is simply heavenly (I do not exaggerate). Not only does it smell delish (seriously), but it is so soothing and hydrating on the skin, I simply love, love LOVE it!

It contains:

Pure Rose to moisturise and hydrate.
Rosehip Oil to heal, plump up skin cells and repair.
Vitimin E to replenish and rebuild
Liquorice, fab for treating pigmentation and uneven skin tone.
Natural sunscreens to prevent free radical and sun damage.

I have added this to my skincare routine as my night time moisturiser, however you can use it day and night.
RRP £58.00, available from professional spa's and salons and online from The Soul Sanctuary Store and Spa Fabulous direct.

Not Santa, it's Neena Trehan That's Coming to Town!

2011-11-17T05:57:00.001-06:00

Next week my spa officially gets festive. The Christmas tree and twinkly lights are most definitely going up, and Bonnie as I speak, is frantically wrapping (quite beautifully) a combination of spa goodies, gorgeously scented winter candles and gift vouchers! This is all in time for our annual Christmas Spa Shopping Event being held on Wednesday 23rd November (6pm-9pm). Except this year we have stepped it up a notch, as the lovely celebrity facialist Neena Trehan is hosting the event. Amazing.

We are already fully booked for all our freebie treatments, however, please come along to enjoy a glass of bubbles, discounts on skincare items, FREE gift vouchers (when you spend £25.00 or over, AMAZEballs!), spa goodie bags, cupcakes, plus the chance to win a express Spa Fabulous Facial with Neena herself! Just pop over to our facebook page, like us and write on our wall that you want to be entered into the 'Fabulous Neena' competition and you will go into the draw. Please note, you must be available to receive this facial on the night of the event.

Neena will be on hand all night to answer your skincare questions, as well as tell you about her amazing skincare range and facials (which we now offer at the spa). Oooooo fabulous! Beauty bloggers, bring your camera's, for this rare opportunity of grabbing a shot with Neena herself!

Just give us a call on 01732 353233 or email info@aquavie.co.uk, so we can save you a ticket! I hope to see you all there xx

So much spa news, so little time!

2011-11-16T11:14:00.000-06:00

Hello lovelies, I am very mindful of the fact that the blog has been a bit neglected recently (a thousand apologies). It's a very busy time of year for me, what with Christmas coming up etc, etc. As you know I have recently come back from LA (see pic left, myself and cosmetologist Mike Harmon enjoying an LA Mexican...yum!)

It appears the lovely beauty fairies have been working their magic too with regards to my signature Elementals Facial & Body treatments. Just this week, I have had three new celebrity clients book in. So as you can imagine it's been a bit all go! It's really lovely that people are so interested in this unique spa service, something that brings a touch of the spiritual to the beauty world. I am now also being asked to travel to various locations to see clients, spreading the Elementals healing sparkles a little bit further. So all is good in the Dadson beauty camp :).

I will also be adding distance healing to my list of personal spa director treatments, as I have recently had enquiries regarding sending distant Reiki. I can do this, but I just need to get the next few busy weeks out of the way, so I can focus on this service on select days. So please watch this space for further updates!
If you haven't seen the new website, check it out here. I hope you like it!

Lastly, you may have heard I am bringing the AMAZE-ing spa brand Decleor to the spa. We are hoping to have retail stock in in time for Christmas, and Decleor Facials will be added to the treatment menu in January.

I promise I will try and update the blog a bit more over the coming week! Hope to see you all soon xx

Little Guru Goes All Beauty Tech!

2011-10-24T03:32:00.000-05:00

Ooooo, my new spa website is almost here (we have just received the first look at it!). It's had a complete revamp, as I do love a bit of internet interaction (just look at the amount I Tweet!). To celebrate the fact, I thought I would share my new promo video for the spa. It had a great response during it's preview on Twitter, so I thought I'd pop it on here too. You'll see from the link we have a YouTube channel, and this channel will become more interactive with the new website. I hope you enjoy it x

We Appear in The Tatler 2012 Spa Guide

2011-10-23T08:42:00.000-05:00

Tatler contacted me back in the summer and told me they were featuring my spa in their 2012 Spa Guide. They had heard about my Elementals Facials (amazing!) and wanted to spread the news. In fact they ended up describing them as 'too good to miss!" We obviously agree, they are too good to miss and I actually hope to have some exciting news that I can share with you about Elementals next year. In the mean time you can read a bit about Tatlers glossy spa guide.

A Luxurious Spa Invite For Little Guru

2011-10-23T07:21:00.003-05:00

Before my trip to the States I received a lovely invitation from Decleor, a French spa brand, that leads the way in all things aromatherapy and gentle for the skin. The invite was to enjoy a personal trip to their flagship spa, Spa Illuminata in London's swanky Mayfair. There I will sample a Decleor Expert Facial and Aroma massage within the spa, an opportunity to truly discover the brand in all it's glory, within a really beautiful setting.

I'm really looking forward to it, and will be reporting my findings on the blog later in the week!

Beauty trends from the land of La

2011-10-15T10:37:00.002-05:00

I'm back! After embarking in 10 days away in the glorious sunshine of LA. Was I on holiday? No not really. Little Guru packed her suitcase in preparation to work and research all things beautiful in the land of La. I'm in the mist of launching a new beauty project, and the LA trip was connected to this. It's all in the very early stages of development, so I don't want to mention too much about it now, but all will be revealed over the coming months.

However, I can say that the trip was brilliant fun and what a roller coaster of beauty bites it turned out to be. I sampled the classic Beverly Hills Facial, experienced a pedicure like no other on Melrose, used every American beauty product imaginable, had my locks preened in Hancock Park, worked like a trooper and even had dinner with the most renowned Dermatologist in Hollywood, (whom I'm hasten to add has more A list celebrities on his client list than I have had hot dinners!). Life is definitely experienced in the fast lane when living in LA.

I also managed to hook up with my best friend (who lives near Culver City) and we experienced a wonderful girlie evening of Mojitos and fine dining at the beautiful Asia De Cuba at the Mondorin. Gorgeous food and amazing service, all whilst looking out over the city from a stunning roof top terrace. Beautiful.

The first thing that struck me about the beauty industry in LA, is the fact the treatments focus very heavily on anti-ageing. Results specific facials, peels and aesthetics dominant treatment menus. Aesthetic enhancements are widely accepted, particularly in the Hollywood and Beverly Hills areas. Organic and natural isn't as popular here as it is in Britain, yes it's available, but anti-ageing dominated my Google and local searches. Micro Current treatments are hugely popular, along with Microdermabrasion also being a regular choice. Although Oxygen Treatments are available, the A-Listers apparently head to London for this treatment as the British are deemed as the experts in this field. Professional women scream glamour. Full make up, false lashes and killer heels appear to be the norm. Even on the flight home Los Angeles airport was full of ladies teetering on 5 inch heels, with big hair. I'm not entirely sure I could keep up with the maintenance!

Nails appeared to be a trend too in all areas of the city, with regular manicures and pedicures being far more popular than gel or acrylic treatments. Oriental nail bars were found on every block, and I have to say they certainly do it far better than their British counterparts. Most appeared higher end, with excellent customer service and immense attention to detail. I was dubious about attending such a place, mainly because the majority of the British versions don't have a very good reputation, but my friend assured me my experience would be different, and thankfully it was. I experienced a very thorough and relaxing manicure, with an added 10 minute shoulder massage for a mere $10.00. During my trip the best nail treatment I had was on Melrose (more about that in a later post).

Whilst at Asia De Cuba I noticed that many of the women had the same hair style too. Long, centre parting, with a slight beach wave (Jennifer Anistons gorgeous locks sprang to mind). My friend told me this was a common theme and hadn't altered much in the five years she had lived in the City. Longer bangs (fringe) framed the face, with subtle highlights that gave a gentle sun kissed look.

One thing that dominated my personal experience of the city was how much the Americans absolutely love the British accent. It was commented on in shops, restaurants, the hotel, beauty salons, on the phone and I was even stopped in the street (on two occasions) to be told how 'beautiful' my accent was!

It was a fascinating trip and I learnt heaps about all things beautiful across the Atlantic. I am returning in a few months to work some more, this time I am also hoping to catch a few rays by the pool!

Hepburn Lash Lift Loves!

2011-09-30T14:49:00.005-05:00

Audrey Hepburn, I loved her. A timeless beauty icon. Well into my late 30's I am still longing to look like her. Those huge, dark sultry eyes could melt a thousands hearts (plus a few icebergs, and a couple of Magnums).

So being a little Hepburn obsessed, I have spent years experimenting with individual lashes and strip lashes to try and master that perfect Hepburn lash effect.

Finally, myself and my manager Karina have perfected our Hepburn Lash Lift technique which incorporates eyelash extensions of various widths, lengths and curl grades, which are applied from the mid eye lash, through to the outer corners. This technique creates a natural, yet a very sexy 1950's lash look. A sweeping touch of black eyeliner sets the lashes off perfectly (a favourite look of mine!).

The photo here was taken immediately after a treatment, I have no other make-up on, other than a coat of Max2 Special Mascara Gold by Nouveau Lashes on my natural lashes (you don't need mascara on extensions, they look perfectly chic without). I wanted a totally natural Hepburn sweep, but this look can be a little more dramatic, with longer and thicker lash extensions. Remember the lashes on a Hepburn sweep are only applied mid way along the eye to the outside corners, so when they shed they actually shed quite naturally, without leaving unsightly gaps (perfect for when you go on holiday). When wearing lash extensions, you can't use most high street mascara's as they generally contain glycol. Glycol actually breaks down the bonding properties present in lash adhesive, so you need to opt for a specialist mascara that is glycol free. The reason I love the Max2 mascara, is purely due to the fact, it gives vlolume and lift, but you don't actually need any type of cleanser or eye make-up to remove it, as it simply comes off in warm water. So no damage is ever caused to your extensions.

I posted the above photo on my personal Facebook page and I received so many comments about how lush these lashes looked, I thought I would share ;).

Monday Night Snoozesomes

2011-09-26T14:16:00.000-05:00

Insomnia. I bloomin hate it, but unfortunately when I am stressed, it tends to creep silently into my bedroom in the depths of the night and strike it's unwelcome sneakiness upon my snooze monitor. So in such times of bleary eyed delusion, I reach for this little bottle of magic and pop a few drops in a oil burning. Before long, a little aromatic lullaby of mandarin, lavender and ylang ylang fills the darkness and teeny tiny fluffy sheep start jumping over a picket fence.........

Little Guru's Home Spa Delights.

2011-09-25T06:55:00.001-05:00

I love a bit of at home pampering. A little spa indulgence in the comfort of your own bathroom is always, for me, an indulgent treat. So yesterday I found myself home alone, and decided to indulge a little, Guru stylie. Fifty minutes of pure home spa bliss, whilst the soothing tones of classical piano tinkled gently in the background. After which I wrapped myself in my dressing gown and snuggled up on the couch with Mr Moz Meister for a spot of Xfactor. Lone Saturday nights in can in fact be very pleasurable.

There are some great, and often cheap at home spa products you can pick up on the high street, which will provide you with a full on spa experience at a fraction of the cost of a real spa visit. An array of potions and lotions to buff, de-fuzz, hydrate and illuminate hair and skin to perfection.

Here's Guru's choice of home spa goodies from yesterday evening.

Sparitual's Open Minded Organic Sugar Scrub . A great all round body buffing polish, that hydrates and removes layers of dead skin. A sugar based exfoliator that breaks down when contacting water, so it's fabulous to use in the bath as no hard exfoliating beads are left in the bottom of the bath after you have completed your top to toe body scrub. It's predominant scent is French lavender, so perfect for pre-bed soaks.

Aromatherapy Associates Bath Oil 'Equilibrium'. I am a big fan of the positive effects aromatherapy oils can have on the physical and emotional body. You can't go wrong with any of the Aromatherapy Associates Bath Oils, they are quite simply, heaven sent. Equilibrium is a blend of Geranium, Rose (my favourite) and Frankincense (another oil that features in Little Guru's top ten faves). A perfect combination of oils to bring balance and peace to the body.

Organic Surge Foaming Bath 'Gentle Meadow'. Sometimes when I want a real luxury bath treat, I will use an oil bath blend along with a foaming bath product. Why? It's simple, I enjoy bubbles. I find most foaming bath products don't tend to retain their scent for very long once in the water, so adding an oil blend just gives my baths a little more scented luxury. I discovered the Organic Surge range during a grocery trip to Waitrose the other day, and thought I investigate a bit more. This company provides quality organic products ranging from hair and bath goodies, as well as a complete range of skincare items, with a very reasonable price tag. Great products with skin friendly ingredients, luxe for less.

Kerastase Chroma Reflect is one of my Beauty Lust Musts for hair. A home treatment product that I purchase from Rush London which moisturises, smooths and locks in colour. This sublimely gorgeous pot of loveliness contains a beautifully fresh scented hair mask. You only need a small amount of this product as it glides on hair easily and immediately absorbs in to the hair shafts effortlessly.

I try and put a mask on my hair at least once a week, I do have a semi-permanent colour gloss applied to my hair every 6-8 weeks, and on long hair this can, over time, have a drying effect. My hair is long and very dark, so a silky finish is a must in guru's beauty world. Whilst my hair mask is on, I usually take advantage of the fact and pop on a facial mask too. I always select one that suits how my skin is at the time, oily, dry, sensitive, de-hydrated etc. Yesterday I selected a hydrating Clarins Mask that I have had for sometime.

Lastly a little home spa pampering wouldn't be the same without a few extra 'bubbles' to round the experience of nicely, plus a good book.

Saturday Afternoon Beautifulness...

2011-09-24T11:39:00.000-05:00

Day to myself today as Mr Guru is at work and I decided to take a sneaky and very rare Saturday off from the spa. So I have pottered about the house, read the latest fashion biggie from Grazia and then thought I would share a little shot of my nails, which are currently sporting the lovely autumnal gel finish lacquer Greige from NSI. I tweeted about this colour earlier in the week, but it was on order at the time. So here it is...

Adele inspired make-up tutorial by Pixiwoo

2011-09-24T08:03:00.000-05:00

DermaQuest Stem Cell 3D Complex Results Two Months On......

2011-09-24T05:54:00.002-05:00

I knew it would be huge soon after it's launch, and so far I'm not being proved wrong. DermaQuest's latest innovation the Stem Cell 3D Complex moisturising cream is starting to appear in the main stream press. It was recently featured in Grazia magazine, named as non-invasive alternative to Botox.

I wrote about this pot of wonder cream the week it was launched in the UK, but as I have now been using it day and night for a couple of months myself, I thought I would post my honest opinion of it.

The Stem Cell 3D Complex is DermaQuest's most recent edition to an already impressive anti-ageing range (I am a huge lover of their Peptide Mobilizer Serum). The 3D Complex calls upon ground breaking plant stem-cell technology and is also packed with antioxidants, peptides and skin lightening ingredients (you can see what they are in my previous post here). £195.00 a pot, it isn't cheap but it does have some pretty impressive scientific backing. Apparently regular use of the 3D Complex can reduce wrinkle depth by up to 15% in just 20 days (pretty impressive stuff).

So how do I find it? My skin is definitely silkier and more hydrated since I started using 3D. I have noticed a reduction in some fine wrinkles that I had started to develop around my eyes, and I also think there has been a reduction in the pore size on my cheeks. The cream is light, fluffy and absorbs in a flash, I also find that a little seems to go a long way.

The 3D Complex is marketing as a preventative cream as much as it is a treatment cream for ageing. I would recommend the perfect age to start using this cream would be late twenties to early thirties, or at the first signs of ageing.

Here are some of the official DermaQuest promotional photo's of the before and after effects of this cream.

Before

14 days later

My pot of wonder cream!

This is the most recent photo I have of myself, taken a couple of weeks ago in my local in Blackheath. I appreciate it isn't the best photo I could load up of my skin, but every one I have taken on my phone this morning is blurred or I have cut off half my face. I will try and get some loaded up next week, the girls can snap a few close ups in the spa for me :)

You can visit the DermaQuest Website for more information.

DermaQuest Skin Peels, My Anti-Ageing Secret (one of them!)

2011-09-23T07:30:00.001-05:00

If you have read any of my previous posts you will know I am a huge fan of DermaQuest, the Californian cosmecuetical brand that quite frankly, does everything it says on the tin.

This year Little Guru decided it was time to start investing in some serious, results driven skin peels. Whilst I am still the right side of 40 (just), I am determined to do everything I can to hang on to the relatively wrinkle free skin that I currently have. I am a lover of regular microdermabrasion and oxygen facials, but I know it's time to really concentrate on kick starting my skin on a much deeper dermal level, before it gets too lazy.

DermaQuest offer a fab range of peels to suit every skin type. All of them help support and improve the barrier function of the skin, boost collagen production, increase hydration,combat open pores and increase cell renewal. They are also fantastic at improving pigmentation caused by sun damage and combating lines and wrinkles. I have super sensitive skin, but even their lactic acid peels are gentle enough to treat this kind of skin type. Typically the peels are a combination of Lactic, Salicylic and Glycolic acids, varying in different percentages of acids, so each peel can be devised to suit the skin type, as well as the level of free radical damage that needs to be treated.

I started a course of lactic peels back in March and I have to confess I am now completely hooked. My manager Karina is just 22, and yet she also has regular Power Pumpkin Peels to assist in controlling the over production of sebum that she suffers with in her skin. This helps keep her skin looking fresh, oil free and prevents the development from black heads (which she suffers with on her forehead, nose and cheeks). The photo below was taken just 2 hours after one of these Power Pumpkin Peels, and as you can see her skin looks amazing. Please excuse the wine glasses, Karina isn't a closet alcoholic. We added the glasses for comedy value, and sent a picture text to my husband titled 'Aquavie Motivational Training Day' (to be fair, it's not far off.....)

Many people are a little frightened of having peels, thinking the skin on their face will turn black and start shedding like something out of a horror movie. Some peels can have this effect yes, however, not the type of peels you find in your High Street salons and spas. Only fully qualified medical practitioners and doctors can perform higher grade peels, and these typically contain acids that are of 70% or more.

DermaQuest peels aren't painful. The most honest way of describing how your skin will feel during a peel is, it's as if your therapist has rubbed a big bowl of crushed chili's onto your face! Not pleasurable but not uncomfortable either. You may feel heat, tingling and a little tightening of the skin, other than that, it is a walk in the park.

During a treatment your skin will be primed with a product called Derma Prime, this removes the acid mantle of the skin, allowing the peeling product to be more readily absorbed. The Peel is then applied with a specialist mask brush, and will remain on the skin for up to ten minutes. Typically the heat sensation is experienced soon after the product has contact with the skin, after a few minutes this sensation reduces. The peel will be removed with cool flannels, nutralised and then several age busting, super hydrating serums and creams will be gently worked into the skin to lock in moisture and offer protection.

If you are in Kent and fancy a super duper DermaQuest Skin Peel Offer this autumn, have a look at one here (you just need to scroll down the page a little bit!).

Pamper, Champers & Cupcakes, What More Could A Girl Want?

2011-09-22T09:08:00.006-05:00

Today the gorgeous Clare from Clare's Cake Creations (Tonbridge) popped in to the spa clutching a little gift for the Aquavie team (bless). There she stood in reception with two beautiful polka dot pink boxes filled with the most gorgeous looking cupcakes. Ones that made us all go 'Oooo' (photo left). Trust me, they taste as good as they look too.

The comforting feeling I got from scoffing my little chops with something so naughty and yet so nice, sent me in to a fuzzy haze of creativity. What do women love the most in life? Yes, you've guessed it, Champagne, Pampering and cake! (I'd probably throw shoes and David Beckham in there too, just for good measure). So to celebrate my moment of chocolate infused cupcake inspiration, we will be launching our "Champer & Pamper" spa experience to our treatment menu from the first week of October. Bubbles, Cake and Sublime Pampering whilst at work, could it get any better?

This creative moment reminded me how much I actually love my job. It was almost as good as the days when I was a police controller in the Met, and we would invite strapping policemen (preferably dashing ones) in to the control room to make us tea. When they left, myself and my dispatch staff would then rate them on a scale of 1-10 for handsomeness, physique and overall datability factor! We would lovingly record the scores a huge white board kept in the corner of the room (which was usually used for tactical police planning) so the evidence was always freely available to hand, as and when one of us became single. Never a dull moment with me in charge. I digress.

The perfect spa experience for couples, friends, mothers and daughters will be on offer and at Aquavie at an amazing discount price.

The package includes one of the following treatments:

Champagne & Rose Body Glow Treatment
Champagne & Rose Power Facial
Champagne & Rose Back Massage
Followed by
Indonesian Petal Foot Cleanse

Plus:
Aquavie Signature Head Massage - FREE
Glass of Champagne - FREE
Ribbon Wrapped Box of 4 Luxurious Cupcakes to share - FREE

Once you have enjoyed your treatment you will be invited into our Indonesian Nail Suite, where you can sit back and relax in one of our leather pedicure chairs and immerse tired feet into a warm Indonesian petal filled foot bowl, infused with aromatic essential oils and salts. Here, you can continue to truly relax, whilst reading the latest glossy magazines, sipping your Champagne and savouring our freshly made cupcakes! All this yummy sublime pampering is priced at a very reasonable £49.99 per person!!

Variations of this spa experience can be adapted for larger groups, birthdays, Hen do's and Princess Parties.

Plus, keep an eye out for our amazing Spa Voucher & Cupcake Christmas Gift Boxes! Freshly made Christmas themed cupcakes with an Aquavie Spa Voucher, lovingly wrapped in beautiful presentation boxes! Seriously, how can it get any better than that?....... cue David Beckham.

Buff Up Your Skin With Crystal or Diamond Microdermabrasion

2011-09-22T05:40:00.002-05:00

This morning whilst walking through the grounds of Tonbridge Castle, I noticed the leaves on the trees had started to display their autumnal hues, winter is definitely coming.

Now is the time to really invest in the re-hydration of your skin. You should be concentrating your beauty regime on reversing any free radical damage that your skin cells may have sustained during the summer months. As well as protection and illumination.

Little Guru always up's her skincare anti during late September and October, I have super sensitive skin that tends to air on the dry side, so I really need to boost it now before the damaging effects of the harsh winter weather gets a hold.

Autumn is a great time to start thinking about resurfacing treatments. As the drearier weather and earlier evenings set in (at least in Britain!), you don't have to worry so much about the effects daily sun exposure may have on post treatment skin (although you must always keep wearing a daily SPF throughout autumn and winter ladies, it's a Little Guru rule!). Now is the time to buff, polish and kick-start skin cells into doing what they do best, renew and protect!

Mircrodermabrasion treatments are a perfect way of doing this, and if you can find one that incorporates red light therapy too, you are on to a winner. The two most popular treatments found in High Street salons are spas are Crystal Microdermabrasion and Diamond Microdermabrasion.

Both have a very similar resurfacing effect on the skin, both use specialist machines to perform a treatment, both are gentle, need no recovery time and offer very similar post treatment results.

Crystal based microdermabrasion treatment still tend to be the most popular choice on the High Street. Using a specialist handset aluminum oxide crystals are pulsated gentle over the surface of the skin, whilst also sucking up dead skin cells. This action provides a gentle, yet thorough exfoliation treatment. Aluminum crystals have been the most commonly used abrasive agent in skin care for the last 20 years, as their irregular shape makes them very effective in this area.

Diamond Microdermabrasion is a crystal free process. Again a handset is used during a treatment, but specialist diamond tipped wands replace the micro-flow of crystals, allowing areas closer to the eyes to be worked on (no risk of wayward crystals bouncing into places they shouldn't). The wands are made of natural diamond chips, which polish the skin in a similar way to crystals. Some say that diamond microdermabrasion isn't as effective on uneven skin, however newer diamond machines can come with wands that have varied tip sizes, enabling the therapists to opt for a size that suits the coarseness or depth of uneven skin.

I personally feel the results are very similar, no matter which option you go for. Both treatments remove layers of dead skin cells, boost collagen and elastin production, as well as tackle enlarged pores. Regular microdermabrasion treatments are also effective in tackling pigmentation damage, however I would highly recommend coupling this with a course of skin peels. Peels work on the deeper dermal layers of the skin, they too act as a resurfacer, but quite frankly, offer more noticeable results.

I personally love Crystal Clear Microdermabrasion treatments. You can read more about them here.

Little Guru Begins Her Beauty Editors Journey

2011-09-21T09:42:00.001-05:00

Monday I woke up feeling nothing short of, well how can I put it, er poo. I felt as if I had been hit by a rather large van, loaded with elephants, driven by a crazy mad man. I knew something wasn't quite right in Little Guru's world, because I couldn't even muster the energy to load the dishwasher, despite the faint aroma of the previous nights chicken madras wafting around the house.

So there I was sprawled out on my sofa, whilst making puppy dog eyes at the hubby and demanding that Mr Moz Meister (fat cat) pass some well deserved feline sympathy my way, when all of a sudden a little email popped up on my laptop. It was from the lovely publisher at Aspect County magazine, inviting me on board as the magazines new beauty editor. The direct result of this email being, a much perkier Little Beauty Guru letting out a little happy sound whilst skipping around her lounge. Miraculous recovery I think you'll agree.

Since then I have been researching, planning and testing all things beautiful for our up and coming editions. First thing on the menu, a trip to LA to research the latest innovations in anti-ageing techniques, an amazing beauty competition and a interview with London's top facialist. Don't miss November's edition for the latest beauty news, reviews and Guru's musings!

This week Aspect next week.....

Guru's Saturday Night PervFactor!

2011-09-18T06:48:00.002-05:00

O.K I appreciate this is strictly a beauty blog, however this next post can technically come under 'all things beautiful in Guru's world'.

Is it me or has Gary Barlow quite frankly matured in to something quite incredibly yumsome? Long gone are the days of the little chubby one with the voice in Take That. To be fair I always thought he was the handsome one, despite most of my girlie friends swooning over Robbie. However when I tuned into the first episode of this seasons Xfactor I wasn't quite prepared for the reaction on my personal phwaaaar monitor!

My Saturday evenings have suddenly reached a fever pitch PervFactor watching Mr Barlow judge contestants with that experienced stern eye of his. Extra Guru brownie points there to Gary Lovesome for not taking any nonsense from anyone (and I bet the Little Guru's puppy dog eye look wouldn't budge him an inch either...... challenge!).

The bad news is Barlow is already very happily married to his lovely wife, and I'm sure half of the UK agree she is one hell of a lucky lady having such a gorgeous piece of husband. The good news is we can all still tune in on a Saturday evening to have a sixty minute unofficial drool over his rugged handsomeness!

Can I sing? No. But rename it Flirt Factor and Little Guru would be slipping on her leopard print heels to win that competition hands down :)