Caroline Hirons

Chris James Q & A and Giveaway.

2013-05-24T12:36:00.001+01:00

Chris James is a yoga, health and well-being expert based in London although he travels extensively and is in demand internationally. I recently grabbed him (a not altogether unpleasant experience as you can imagine) to ask him for his top tips for health - and what we can be doing better for ourselves...

What are the 3 worst things you can do to your body?

1. Sitting for extended periods

We are a nation of sloths: Nearly seven in ten of us spend 20 hours a day seated or lying in bed.

People who are on their rear ends for more than four hours a day are at greater risk from hip replacements to chronic illnesses such as cancer, diabetes and heart disease.

While just over half of Britons believe they lead active lives, a recent report suggests that going to the gym or running up hills during the four hours you are not sitting or sleeping may not be enough to keep you healthy.

With many people in the West now spending at least half the time sitting, a significant shift in behaviour is required to make demonstrable improvements in life expectancy.

The message is clear – move more and sit less. Spend more time standing if you want to live longer!

2. Drink carbonated drinks

The fact is ALL carbonated soft drinks are bad for you. Science and medical research have found that the health effects of soda include everything from tooth decay, to hyperactivity, and diabetes to obesity.

Soda makes you age faster - All soda contains phosphates or phosphoric acid. This common food additive enhances shelf life, but according to new research accelerates signs of ageing, severe muscle and skin atrophy, and other age related problems.

Soda makes you fat - A 2011 study by the School of Medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Centre San Antonio found that artificial sweeteners have neuroexcitotoxic properties which will impact the hypothalamus of your brain. When the receptors on the hypothalamus are deregulated your body will perceive a state of famine and make you hungrier, slow your metabolism and store fat rather than burn fat!

Soda contributes to acidosis of the blood stream - Human beings have the same PH levels as sea water Ph7.3 / 7.4.

When we imbibe ‘acid bomb’ carbonated drinks (typically Ph2.2) the human body tries to rebalance itself and borrows from the most abundant source of alkalinity in the human body, which is found guess where? Exactly, you’ve guessed it – it’s the human skeleton! Maintaining acidic blood PH will have dire consequences for your health!

3. Smoke

Today there are few people who do not know that smoking leads to a host of diseases, many of them fatal.

Ok so bearing all of that in mind - What are the 3 best things you can do to fix it/for maintenance?

1. Practice yoga

Yoga has proven powers to boost your energy and increase your flexibility, which helps prevent injury. Yoga also has an amazing ability to put you in a zen-like mood. Studies have shown it decreases your body's levels of cortisol, which is the stress-producing hormone that causes you to gain weight around your middle.

2. Consume vegetable juice and plenty of water

Consuming 300 / 600 mls of raw vegetable juice every day will maintain healthy and slightly alkaline levels in the bloodstream, promote health, boost immune function and make you live at your optimum levels of health and vitality. Drink at least two litres of water.

Raw Juice contains almost immediately accessible fuel for your body and is the best way to cleanse the body. Most people will absorb far more nutrients from juice than from eating foods, even raw foods, since you do not rely on your digestive system being in optimum condition (which typically it is not….).

3. Cleanse / Detox twice a year.

A cleanse (www.chrisjamescleanse.com) allows you to press the reset button on your health, and allows you to step back from your normal diet for a few days, to cleanse your palate and get back on the healthy eating track.

Typically you will find that by feeding yourself with juices for a short time instead of refined sugar and processed foods you will actually stop craving these foods. You will also become more aware of what you are putting into your body and attentive to which foods truly make you feel good rather than relying on food stimulants. This all means that healthier eating becomes easier when you finish your cleanse.

By the end of your juice Cleanse, you would have simply ditched the unhealthy old you!

Are there any particular foods that you recommend to optimise health?

Absolutely - my favourite superfoods are:

1. Asparagus

A half-cup supplies 50% of your daily bone-building vitamin K and a third of your day’s folate, it’s a natural diuretic so it banishes bloating, too. Plus, they are in season right now!

2. Avocados

Lower cholesterol and dilate blood vessels while blocking artery-destroying toxicity. Avocados contain a nutrient called glutathione, which blocks at least 30 different carcinogens while helping the liver detoxify synthetic chemicals. Researchers at the University of Michigan found that elderly people who had high levels of glutathione were healthier and less likely to suffer from arthritis.

Recipe idea

Altruistic Avocados – a personal favourite here! But just not too many. Their healthy fat keeps you satisfied and helps you absorb other nutrients.

For a new twist, brush a halved avocado (pit removed) with olive oil and grill 1 minute. Serve with red onion, sliced grapefruit and balsamic vinegar.

3. Seaweed

Seaweed could be the most underrated vegetable in the Western world. Studies at McGill University in Montreal showed that seaweeds bind to radioactive waste in the body so it can be removed. Radioactive waste can find its way into the body through some medical tests or through food that has been grown where water or soil is contaminated. Seaweed also binds to heavy metals to help eliminate them from the body. In addition, it is a powerhouse of minerals and trace minerals.

And there's no point in talking to one of the best yoga teachers in the world without asking:

3 best yoga poses for stress relief?

One of the quintessential resting poses of any yoga practice, Child's Pose -- which involves sitting on the knees and bending forward with arms forward or by your side -- can be very comforting and self-soothing.

Corpse Pose (Savasana)

At the end of your practice -- or anytime you're feeling overwhelmed -- try lying down flat on your back, with your arms at your sides, and simply focusing on the breath for one to 10 minutes.

Corpse is the ultimate in terms of relaxation -- it really allows the body to sink down into the ground, and it's easier to tune into the breath when you're lying on the back and watching the belly rise up and down.

Standing Forward Bend (Uttanasana)

Forward bends are excellent for calming our nervous system, according to Brower. The posture provides a release of the upper body and soothes the mind through gentle inversion either when practiced on its own or between poses.

If you feel like giving your body a kick-start before the summer (assuming we are actually going to GET a summer) Chris James has offered one lucky reader a Mind & Body Cleanse set worth £120.00.

To enter simply like Chris's Facebook page here and leave your name below with a twitter handle or email where we can contact you. Giveaway closes Sunday 2nd June.

More information on Chris James Yoga and his Mind & Body Cleanse can be found on the links.

Instagram catch-up. Picture Heavy Post.

2013-05-22T10:12:00.002+01:00

In the QVC canteen with Keeley from Elemis and Dr Lens from Zelens. And a funny moment caught on camera in the middle.

Not cheap but SO good.

My amazonian green tree frog.

Their usual brilliant selves.

Seriously what is prettier than flowering magnolia?

Lovely new perfumes from Shay & Blue.

Ava and I worked our way through this like a hot knife through butter.

Love this.

Standard.

Haven't stopped using these.

A box of balms makes Lady Hirons a happy Lady.

Bottle number 2.

Chantecaille peonies. Gorgeous.

Seriously the best desert I have ever tasted. Jamie's - Westfield. Trifle with rhubarb and glazed meringue. Should be illegal.

French pharmacy bargains.

Knock-out bath.

Sunday Riley Makeup - love working with great brands.

Place setting at dinner with Ole Henriksen.

Ree working a fabulous pose, Ole and my cheeks. Well - at least that's all I see.

3 cleanser action. Standard.

The working toner shelf.

Remember that ONE day of sun we had? Used this afterwards.

My most 'liked' picture on Instagram ever. Beat Kardashian by a mile. LOL - you pen freaks!

Have no idea how I missed this immensely beautiful statue on Hyde Park Corner but seek it out. For the Jubilee last year.

Loving so far.

Tache action for Bliss' #fuzzoff launch.

Weekend kit from Aromatherapy Associates. Coming with me to Mum's this weekend.

This is not a sponsored post by Zara Home. But it could be. I 'may' have gone overboard. My husband is somewhere under the pillows.

Neotantric Fragrances - (I am) a Sex Goddess

2013-05-17T14:32:00.000+01:00

OK let's be clear. I am clearly not a Sex Goddess. That much is obvious.

However, I do love this fragrance from Neotantric Fragrances.

Neotantric is a Swedish brand and each fragrance has been composed in Grasse and created by a different parfumier, whose ‘noses’ have created parfum’s for many well known global brands - along a similar vein to Frederic Malle albeit with a quirky edge.

This particular one is created by Christian Vermorel and comes in a 100ml EDT - which means I tend to spray it on my clothing to make it last longer. There are no descriptions on the bottles - you're supposed to just blind smell and pick the one you are attracted to.

Once I saw the breakdown though it was blatantly obvious why I love it:

It's pretty much one of my favourites at each layer - fresh, then floral, then slightly deeper with warmth. Pretty perfect for those days when you can't decide what to wear - be it clothing or fragrance. Gives you a lovely whisper of a beautiful smell that doesn't overpower your mood, clothing or attitude.

I love it. I'm still not a Sex Goddess though.

More info on Neotantric Fragrances can be found here and it can be purchased at Beauty Works West - prices from £65.00

*pr sample, no affiliates

Zelens Giveaway Winners

2013-05-17T11:18:00.000+01:00

My apologies for the delay in getting this done! I've now had the list of winners from the Zelens office and they are:

Penny Alwyn

Maginda Gomes

Aoife

Browneyes35

Alison Hodges

Congratulations all!

You have until Monday to claim your prize. Please email info@carolinehirons.com with your full posting address.

Thanks to everyone who entered. And don't worry if you didn't win this time - there are plenty more Giveaways to come.

Beauty Trends Conference - September 2013

2013-05-15T15:30:00.000+01:00

Just a quick one for industry bods. I'm speaking at the Beauty Trends and Innovation Conference this September. It looks like being a really good day if you fancy joining us?

Beauty Trends and Innovations Conference

Thank you Pixiwoo.

2013-05-13T13:44:00.000+01:00

So its been a couple of weeks since I did the video with Sam and Nic for BodyTalk Daily.

I was then unexpectedly mentioned in this Summer Makeup Favourites video from the girls at the weekend.

I wanted to do this catch-up post to say two things:

1. Sam and Nic rock. The better side of the industry personified - talented, sweet, so very generous and the ultimate professionals.

2. The effect of being mentioned by Pixiwoo on 2 occasions has sent this blog stratospheric - I am only mentioning this for one reason: I have been inundated with requests for help.

People are emailing/tweeting/finding me on instagram - I am being asked for skin advice in the Post Office and spotted in the loo. (Can you imagine what its like to actually BE Sam and Nic? - I'm exhausted on their behalf thinking about it.)

With the best will in the world there is just no way I can reply to everyone - if you catch me online and I'm around I will always answer if I can - but please don't think I'm rude if I don't reply to you - it's not for lack of wanting.

Thank you Sam and Nic. You rock.

Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm - a rant and a review.

2013-05-08T14:20:00.000+01:00

Let me say this about this cleanser. It comes with a flannel. Yes. A flannel (washcloth for my confused US readers). Amen, praise the maker - praise whomever you choose - I cannot deal with anymore muslin cloths. Sod off with the muslin cloths. One brand says they are better at cleaning the skin and everyoneelseinthehistoryoftheworld follows. I'm looking at you Eve Lom. And don't come at me with Cleanse & Polish. Eve Lom did it first. (Not that it's her fault that everyone and their brother copied her - that's a compliment - of sorts.)

I digress.

Here's the other thing about this cleanser. I can't decide. I can't decide if I like it or hate it - If I like or hate the smell, like or hate the texture - like or hate the results. I've had this for a while - before it launched - I haven't blogged it because I just can't decide - so I'm sticking with facts and a round-up at the end. I hope you don't end up as confused as me.

What's in it?

Well it doesn't contain collagen - as I was asked recently. In fact, you'd be hard pushed to find the ingredients anywhere if you weren't standing in front of the box as neither Elemis, nor any of their online retailers PRINT THE INGREDIENTS. I've ranted about this before so I won't bore you with it again - but seriously - it's borderline arrogance to me that brands don't a: list the full ingredient list on their sites and b: insist that their other stockists do the same.

How do you expect your customers to make an informed decision about purchasing a product if they do not know what is in it? And not just the ingredients you want to 'push' - all of them.

So here, in all their iPhone glory are the ingredients:

Now why couldn't Elemis have provided that? There's nothing to apologise for in that list - in fact Elemis make a big deal of saying what they don't contain - parabens, mineral oils etc - so why not say it loud and proud?

On your website?

What's good about it?

Mineral oil free, paraben and SLS free - good almond oil base. Gives a good massage medium for second cleanse - or only cleanse if you aren't wearing a lot of eye makeup. The flannel! Today I like the smell.

What's bad about it?

It contains shea butter so I would avoid if you are prone to breakouts/acne. Hardens slightly in colder temperatures so can drag slightly on the skin if not warmed in hands before (which I don't like doing) - as this is aimed at a 'mature' skin - not ideal.

If you keep your cleanser in your bathroom you should be ok though. Not great for eye makeup removal - leaves traces of mascara and a film on the skin. I have to pre-cleanse with Una Brennan's oil if I'm wearing makeup and give an extra wipe with the flannel to make sure it's all off before I tone.

Verdict:

The Pro-Collagen range is to Elemis what Lime, Basil and Mandarin is to Jo Malone or Touche Eclat is to YSL in that it is their 'pension fund' range.

Pro-Collagen Marine Cream was such a huge runaway success for Elemis that it was only a matter of time before they extended the line. Elemis fans will no doubt LOVE this and say that I am insane. And that's great - if it ain't broke, don't fix it on my account.

All that being said, I'm just not overwhelmed with enthusiasm.

It's good, it's not great.

To give more context, it's easily better than Eve Lom, but it wouldn't stop me buying Emma Hardie.

I happily use it, but I wouldn't buy it as a first preference given the choice.

I have 3 of them - and I won't be giving any of them away - I'll keep them and use them all (I KNOW).

I'm just confused. Sorry Elemis.

Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm is available on TimeToSpa.co.uk and is £39.50.

Please do let me know if you have had great results with this - I love Elemis as a rule and want to play fair.

*PR sample

Decleor Aroma Sun Expert SPF 50 and 30 Protective Anti-wrinkle Creams

2013-05-08T13:04:00.000+01:00

Next up is Decleor - which is hands-down my favourite suncare packaging - they nailed it with the pinky/red. It's pretty perfect - and so easy to spot in your bag when you're wearing dark shades!

Available in three strengths:

SPF15

SPF30

SPF50

One size:

50ml

'UVA' symbol on pack:

Yes

Water resistant?:

Resistant - Yes

Waterproof - No

Perspiration resistant?:

Yes

Rub resistant?:

Not stated.

Texture:

Feels like a normal moisturiser - takes slightly longer to absorb than some - not that that's a bad thing.

Fragrance:

SPF mixed with fresh floral - very nice.

Suitability for darker skins:

I tested the 30 and the 50. Absorbs very well with little trace. SPF creams really have come a long way since the days of making us all look milk-bottle white.

What else?:

Contains a DNA Protection Complex and Sol-Collagenine anti-ageing complex in addition to the SPF. More skin 'care' for your dolla.

Verdict:

Gorgeous suncare range that sits much more on the 'skincare' side due to higher price point. This is £28.00 for 50ml. Buy it when it's on GWP!

Available on Decleor.co.uk (which currently has a GWP)

*PR samples

Clarins SPF 50+ and SPF30 Sun Wrinkle Control Cream

2013-05-08T12:36:00.000+01:00

Available in three strengths:

SPF15

SPF30

SPF50+

There is a wider selection available - I'm just focusing primarily on the face.

One size:

75ml (nice big fat size)

'UVA' symbol on pack:

Yes

Water resistant?:

Resistant - Yes

Waterproof - No

Perspiration resistant?:

Yes

Rub resistant?:

Not stated.

Texture:

Goes on and feels like a normal face cream - absorbs well

Fragrance:

I love the smell - if you've ever used Clarins SPF before you'll know the scent. Same every year. Reminds me of the SUN!

Suitability for darker skins:

I tested all three strengths on all but the very darkest skins. I don't think this would leave any residue or tell-tale SPF trace on any skin.

What else?:

Contains a Clarins patented Phyto-Sunactyl 2 Multi-Cellular protection complex - which in layman's terms is designed to strengthen and reinforce the skin and protect from collagen damage.

These photos don't show the circled UVA logo mentioned on the SPF cheat sheet - but it is on the packaging of this year's products - which I have - meaning that at least a 1/3 of the UV protection is UVA.

Verdict:

I love Clarins sun products. Everyone used to rave about Lancaster (good - but not the be all and end all) but for me Clarins have always done sun well. It's hard to go wrong to be honest.

Good sizes, good technology, good price.

What's not to love?

Clarins is available on Clarins.co.uk and is highly recommended.

*PR samples

Pixiwoo's BodyTalk

2013-05-01T18:47:00.000+01:00

A couple of weeks ago and I sat down with Sam and Nic from Pixiwoo to talk about skincare. I say 'talk'. I mean 'rant'.

Thank you to the girls for having me and the team for being so hospitable. Next time we should do it with wine. :)

EX1 Cosmetics Giveaway

2013-04-30T18:54:00.000+01:00

Straight up from the get-go: EX1 are one of my clients. I wanted to work with them because instead of complaining to all and sundry when she couldn't find the correct tones for her skin - their founder, Farah, decided to make her own. As you do. My kind of woman.

The line contains 5 products - a liquid foundation, mineral powder foundation, compact powder, blusher and concealer with more in the pipeline. There has long been talk about the lack of availability of colour cosmetics for any skin other than white. Hopefully this is a small step in the right direction.

EX1 is specifically designed to work with non-white and asian skintones - something they appear to have done if feedback from customers is anything to go by.

I've compiled a very rough list of possible shade matches - I know its ridiculously hard to get across tones online but when you have the owner on speed dial you can be pushy. :)

F100 - Kim Kardashian (without makeup!)

F200 - Eva Longoria

F300 - Shriya Saran

F400 - Freida Pinto

F500 - Jada Pinkett Smith

The other reason I'm a fan? Pricing. Farah is adamant that EX1 should be affordable for all - not just 'those that can afford it'. EX1 is essentially a high-end foundation with a mass price. The Invisiwear Liquid Foundation is £10.50. Nice work.

Anyway: being one of my clients I ~~bullied~~ asked Farah nicely if she wanted to offer any to the readers of this blog - and she of course said yes.

EX1 are offering 3 readers any 3 products of their choice from the range.

To enter: 'Like' the EX1 Facebook page and/or leave a comment below letting me know how to contact you - twitter or your FB/email, whatever you prefer.

T & C's:

Three sets of 3 products are available (we can help you with colours)
Three winners will be chosen at random by other members of the EX1 team - not me
Giveaway closes Wednesday 22 May 2013
No alternative product or cash alternative will be offered
Winners will be given 48 hrs to respond - after that another winner will be chosen

EX1 is available from Look Fantastic, Beauty Expert and HQ Hair.

More information on the brand can be found on EX1 Cosmetics.com

Small print: Ex1 are my client - but I am not receiving any funding for holding this giveaway. No affiliate links.

Clinique City Block Sheer SPF25 and SPF40 Face Cream

2013-04-30T16:36:00.001+01:00

It's all about the C word today. Those of you who know me of old will remember that is what I used to call Clinique - the 'C' word. Well, *deep breath* I apologise.

On some counts. I still think Clarifying Lotion (except the mild one) is akin to nail varnish remover but THAT ASIDE - I've been more impressed with recent offerings. These are two of them.

City Block Sheer 25SPF is an oil-free tinted broad spectrum sunscreen designed for use alone or under makeup. Don't be put off by the tinted part - I've tried both of these on four of us in the office - the tint only highlights your skin with a glow - it's not foundation.

Available in two strengths:

SPF25

SPF40

One size:

40ml

'UVA' symbol on pack:

Water resistant?:

Perspiration resistant?:

Yes

Rub resistant?:

Not stated.

Texture:

Goes on and feels like a tinted moisturiser

Fragrance:

Smells lovely - has the SPF smell but it is not overpowering

Suitability for darker skins:

I tested the SPF25 - that was fine on very pale to darker olive skins. Not tested on black skin but there is no white residue that I think would be problematic.

What else?:

City Block is designed to do just that. Protect from grime, smog, smoke, pollution in general.

Oil-free.

This is a mineral sunscreen - not chemical - so those of you allergic to traditional SPF should be fine.

Acts as a primer - use this instead of a BB/CC/TT (total timewaster) cream.

Verdict:

Pretty much the perfect SPF for those of you that need/want protection on a daily basis. Not just on a beach. I like this. I will use this myself. Now someone go pick London Makeup Girl up off the floor and give her a gin.

Right. When you leave the city behind and head for the beach - you need the real deal. Clinique Sun has lots of variations and comes in a 35 stick, 30 and 40 for the face.

Available in three strengths:

SPF35 STICK

SPF30 cream

SPF40 cream

One size:

The creams are 50ml

'UVA' symbol on pack:

No - however, the leaflet states 'Formulas comply with EU recommendations for UVA/UVB protection'. I an guessing it doesn't contain the UVA 'circle' symbol to save Clinique having different packaging for different countries?

Water resistant?:

Yes.

Perspiration resistant?:

Yes - sweat resistant. Score for The Hirons. Does anyone actually 'perspire'? Like a Lady would in Downton Abbey? My entire side of the family sweat like rugby players wearing thermals and uggs near the equator. I digress.

Rub resistant?

Says 'reapply after rubbing'.

Texture:

Really nice. Predictably thicker than the City Block but one comment from a tester was 'WOW. That is REALLY good for a 40.'

Fragrance:

Fresh SPF.

Suitability for darker skins:

Black skins would get a glow. Healthy glow. Not Frankenstein glow.

What else?:

Fragrance free. Allergy tested. Suitable for sensitive skins. Has Clinique patented 'SolarSmart' antioxidant protection that is triggered by sun exposure for extra help. Stick with the SPF info - the jury is very much out on whether antioxidants in creams do anything to protect the skin. Internally, yes. Externally, derms will argue about it for days.

Verdict:

Another one that is coming home with me. Good, solid, SPF - the UVA symbol is missing but it does say 'UVA/UVB high protection'. And yes, I love the yellow packaging.

Clinique suncare is available at all Clinique stockists and on www.Clinique.co.uk. Prices start at £17.00.

*PR samples. But I would buy.

Shiseido Expert Sun Aging Protection SPF30

2013-04-26T18:58:00.000+01:00

I thought I'd keep the reviews of the SPF's as user-friendly as possible - i.e. not let the brands overwhelm with the science and marketing blurb and just give the details (I think) you need.

First up is Shiseido's Expert Sun Aging Protection Cream.

Available in two strengths:

SPF30

SPF50

Two sizes:

50ml

100ml

'UVA' symbol on pack:

Yes!

Water resistant?:

'Very'

Perspiration resistant?:

Yes

Rub resistant?:

Not stated.

Texture:

Lovely - absorbs easily leaving no 'white'residue

Fragrance:

Subtle SPF smell, smells like a hybrid of a Shiseido moisturiser and SPF - pleasant

Suitability for darker skins:

I tested the SPF30 - I think it would be fine for dark skins.

What else?:

Sand proof. (!?)

Has patented SuperVeil UV-360 technology that ensures the coverage over every area of the skin - basically claims to reach the parts other sun creams don't reach! :)

ProfenseCEL defends against UV exposure by limiting enzyme activity.

Verdict:

A lovely cream that absorbs very quickly, leaves no 'white' residue and is EU approved ensuring at least 30% of the protection is towards UVA damage. (See SPF Cheat Sheet)

Shiseido Expert Sun Aging Protection starts from £27.50 and is available next week from House of Fraser.

SPF - Cheat Sheet

2013-04-25T17:25:00.000+01:00

Now that the sun is here I am asked more frequently about moisturisers with SPF - and which to use, when - and how much?

I have inadvertently given the impression on this blog that I don't use SPF - absolutely my fault for not being clear.

So to put the record straight: I have olive skin and have Native American Indian in my background. I tan easily, burn rarely and worship the sun. However, my Mother (much paler than me) has suffered with melanoma quite seriously so I have my skin checked under Woods Lamps and keep an eye on my moles. And I absolutely use SPF when sunbathing - and when in hot climates for work - I just don't use daily SPF in my skincare.

In the winter I get my SPF from my make-up - and in the summer I get SPF from a specific SPF product. I.E. a dedicated sunscreen that gives both UVA and UVB protection. UVC doesn't penetrate that atmosphere so we don't need to worry on that score.

My problem with SPF in moisturisers is two-fold:

It gives you a false sense of security.
If you use a moisturiser containing SPF 15 (for example) at 8am in the morning - assuming you apply it all over your face (most people leave out areas of their face when moisturising) - if you would normally burn in 15 minutes of sun exposure, technically you should be reapplying your SPF at 11.45am. How are you going to do that without removing your full face of makeup? I know no-one that takes their makeup off halfway through the day to reapply sunscreen.
If you apply your SPF moisturiser religiously every day and think you are protected - you may not be.
A moisturiser containing SPF invariably only protects from UVB - it does not protect you from UVA. So you won't burn, but your collagen will break down and you'll still get wrinkles. Excellent. Also - SPF moisturisers are less likely to be rub-resistant or water-resistant. So if you apply your makeup with fingers or a brush (everyone) or perspire/sweat - it's gone.

If you want proper protection from the sun you need to use a broad spectrum sun protectant cream - a dedicated product that's sole purpose is to protect your skin from the damage the sun does to it.

Honestly? Companies that add SPF to their general 'anti-ageing' moisturisers are throwing it in there as an 'added benefit' and a sales tool. Sun protection is not an 'added benefit'. It's a critical, proven step to protect from ageing.

The EU is on to this and making sweeping changes from this July. The symbol above can only be shown on packaging of a product that has proven to provide at least a third of its protection against UVA. Not just UVB.

In terms of routine?

cleanse
tone
serum (if you use)
moisturiser (non-spf!)
SPF product
makeup

The EU has also reclassified sun protection ratings:

Low = 6-14 (God knows what they would call my old preferred SPF 4 oil of the 80's)
Medium = 15-29
High = 30-50
Very high = 50+

If you are fair, white, 'pale' - you should be in the 'High' category.

If you are any type of ethnicity that tans easily and rarely burns you can use low-medium as long as you use it wisely.

If you are a redhead however you are strictly in the 'Very high' category. Redheads with freckles have phaeomelanin - opposed to the rest of us that have eumelanin. You'll burn easily, quickly and the damage will be long-lasting.

If you use an SPF in the low-medium category you will still tan.

If you don't want any colour at all you need to use 30 and above and reapply frequently.

N.B. - SPF degrades. Buy new each year.

When I use Woods Lamps or similar technology on clients the main areas that nearly always show damage are the tops of the ears (ALWAYS the top of the ears), the back of the neck and the tip of the nose. Forewarned is forearmed.

Enjoy the sun. I LOVE the sun. Just protect yourself.

Sue Devitt is no more

2013-04-25T16:13:00.001+01:00

I don't know how it passed me by but I found out today that Sue Devitt folded in February. Such a shame. Especially after Jemma Kidd also went under recently. If the small guys (girls) go - we're only left with the corporate big guns - and I don't know about you but that thought terrifies me.

There appears to still be Sue Devitt stock in the UK if you are a fan. But I'd get moving if I were you.

Let's hope she comes back bigger and better.

Georgia Louise launching in SpaceNK

2013-04-23T15:43:00.000+01:00

Launching this June in SpaceNK is the Georgia Louise skincare range. Initially opening with 4 products - Georgia Louise is a British -born facialist now based in New York and counts Emma Stone and Linda Evangelista as clients.

The four products are Sleeping Beauty Oil, Day & Night Brightening Cream, Hydrating Rose Water and the Cleanse & Heal Duo Balm - which is predictably what I zoned in on.

This is a make-no-apologies oil based balm cleanser. Although it says that you can add a few pumps of the rosewater, for me, there is no emulsifying here - you won't get this off without a hot, wet, flannel - which suits me fine. (If I wanted something to emulsify I'd use a cleansing milk?)

It contains coconut butter, Mango butter, beeswax, castor oil, apricot kernel oil, passion fruit oil, meadow-foam seed oil, papaya oil, vitamin e oil, lavender, ylang-ylang and chamomile. And that's it. it is also 89% organic but that is neither here nor there for me as regular readers will know.

It says suitable for all skin types - and I'm sure it pretty much is - however, I do think an acne skin could get into trouble if they didn't remove every last trace of it - properly.

For the rest of us it's a glorious uplifting balm cleanser that gives you a good grip to really get a good massage going. You can usually rely on facialist brands more than any other to 'give good balm'. They base their products around their needs in the treatment room. You can't massage owt with a weak-assed milk.

GL is clearly good with her hands - until recently she was making all of her products herself.

Georgia Louise launches in SpaceNK at the beginning of June. Stores and prices to be confirmed. In the meantime, further reading on GL and her work can be found on GeorgiaLouise.co.uk

Aveda skincare - it's not all about the hair you know!

2013-04-17T16:09:00.000+01:00

My recent stint in Liberty reminded me of how much I used to love Aveda skincare and what a gem it is.. The counter is opposite the Queen Mary room (fancy!) and I headed there for at least one item after nearly every consultation. Usually the original line..

The exfoliant is another alternative to the P50, Pixi Glow Tonic and Clarins Exfoliating Toner.

The hydrating lotion does exactly what it says on the bottle. Light, non-clogging action.

The cream cleanser doesn't dry out the face..

And the spray toners are amazing.

Here's the thing: It's kind of hard to go wrong with Aveda for good, basic, affordable skincare. I haven't delved too much into the other lines - I'm fond of this original line - I'm not one for faff and this does the job.

Here's the best thing: the pricing and the sizes. All of the products shown in Aveda's 'botanical kinetics' line start at £17.00 for 150ml.

Them's crazy prices. I forgot about you Aveda skincare. I'm sorry. Remedied. Go try it.

Available at all Aveda stockists and online at www.aveda.co.uk

*Purchases - no affiliates.

Jo Malone Limited Edition Red Roses - going going...almost gone...

2013-04-16T14:49:00.000+01:00

I readily admit, when I first heard that Charlotte Stockdale was going to be Jo Malone's 'Style Editor' I raised my eyebrow (For a change? How rude.).

Now? Now I get it. Jo Malone needed a fresh pair of eyes and it would appear MS Stockdale has done just that. I've been a customer of Jo Malone since Walton Street. I wasn't particularly 'in the know' back then - I just happen to be a West London girl. Lime, Basil and Mandarin has been on my shelf since those days - although I now favour the stronger Cologne Intense range - especially Velvet Rose & Oud and Rose Water & Vanilla. *bliss*

I've completely digressed.

Charlotte's Corner debuted at Selfridges last week and is a one-off installation featuring must-have Jo Malone London pieces mixed with vintage finds and textiles. Says Stockdale, "I wanted to add a modern twist to the iconic packaging of Jo Malone London. I love neon, especially on a neutral background, so the classic cream and black set against shocking pink is a brilliant combination. It's fashion graffiti. Playful, cool and alive."

The Collection contains scatter cushions and scented sachets - but the main attraction is undoubtedly the Limited Edition dipped bottles of Red Roses of which there are 300 available. Well, there were. I just called the counter in London and they have none at the moment but are expecting the very last of them on a delivery tomorrow. Get yours while you can.

Jo Malone in Selfridges London is on 0207 318 3998. The Limited Edition Red Roses Cologne is £120.00.

Now they just need to BRING BACK VINTAGE GARDENIA and all will be well with the world.

Kai - too much gorgeousness for one post.

2013-04-15T15:19:00.000+01:00

If you haven't smelt Kai yet, just imagine being smacked upside the nostrils with a large bouquet of white florals - the main component being gardenia. Gardenia on crack. Kai smells like gardenia on crack.

(And you thought I couldn't do fragrance reviews! Pah!)

Kai is in all seriousness one of those perfect little niche brands that seem to tick all the boxes both in their product offering and in relationship to their customers. They have some innovative products - including this beautiful body buffer - it's riddled with product, you just wet and go....

If you prefer just lounging in a hot bath and dreaming of sunnier climes the Bathing Bubbles are beyond.

And if you just want to basically smell it 24/7 they have beautiful, fragrant candles.

They have a lovely, simple website and actually update their blog regularly. And don't get me started on the Pinterest or Instagram. Too many gorgeous pictures of gorgeous things.

Kai is available from Beauty Works West, Liberty Bath Shop and Cult Beauty. I've bought from all three.

*No affiliate links. I don't work for Kai. But I TOTALLY WOULD if they wanted to pay me in product. Alrighty then.

Michael Kors Beauty

2013-04-12T18:22:00.001+01:00

Happy Friday People. I cannot TAKE this rain any more. So here, let's look at the new Michael Kors beauty coming in August.......

Containing 3 new scents - Sporty, Sexy and Glam. Each one has a fragrance, along with 2 Lip Lacquer shades, 2 Lip Luster gloss products and 2 nail polishes apiece. Three Bronze Powders along with a Bronze Powder Brush (HE-LLO!). Sun and body products include Indulgent Body Creme, Liquid Shimmer Dry Oil and Shimmer Bath Beads. And finally, three sun basics: Liquid Self Tanner, After Sun Gelee, and After Sun Lip Balm.

Sigh. There. That's better isn't it?........ ROLL ON SUMMER.

No word on which stores yet.

*all visuals courtesy WWD.

What's in my Handbag?

2013-04-12T15:52:00.001+01:00

I'm over on the 'What's in my Handbag' site again with skincare must-have's. To see what made the cut go have a look..What's in my Handbag/Caroline Hirons

Zelens Z Matrix and Giveaway

2013-04-11T12:55:00.000+01:00

So as promised - I'm talking about some of my clients for a change and ~~completely abusing my position to make them give me things for you~~ introducing you to some of their products that you may not have seen/tried.

First up is Zelens - created by Dr Marko Lens - who is literally the most knowledgeable person I have ever met when it comes to the skin and all things skin-related. He is a consultant plastic and reconstructive surgeon but his specialty is skin cancer and skin ageing. He is a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons and holds a Master of Science from Harvard and a Phd from Oxford in the field of skin cancer.

He knows his stuff. He's also completely hysterical to work with and literally takes pleasure in driving me insane. On a daily basis.
He once greeted me by poking me in the eye and saying 'That mole has altered, lie down, we must remove it' and proceeded to remove a mole that I had on my eyelid since birth in less time than it takes for me to cleanse before we proceeded with our meeting. As you do....

What set Zelens apart for me and made them an enticing prospect to work with is the amount of research and clinical trials that go into every product. The proof is literally in the pudding - as they say.

Zelens' Triple Action Eye Cream is probably the best known product in the range and has been a bestseller since launch. My personal favourite is the Z Matrix pictured above. It's the go-to for when my skin is tired, dehydrated and just lost its 'oomph'. The entire line is paraben and mineral oil free and suitable for all skin types.

So I asked the Doc if I could have some to give to the lovely readers of this blog and ~~completely stole them off the shelf~~ he offered up 5.

To win one of the lovely Z Matrix's on offer simply follow Zelens on Facebook and leave a comment below telling me you have done so including either your twitter name or contact details.

That's it. Just to be completely clear: Dr Lens is my client, but I won't be picking the winners - that'll be up to his office and PR.

T & C's:

Five Z Matrix are available
Five winners will be chosen at random by the Zelens team - not me
Giveaway closes Wednesday 24th April at 12pm
No alternative product or cash alternative will be offered
Winners will be given 48 hrs to respond - after that another winner will be chosen

Zelens Facebook page

Zelens is available from Zelens.com, Space NK, Beauty Bay, Salon Skincare, Beauty Mart and QVC (from April 18th)

Small print:
Zelens are my client but I am not being paid anything to hold this giveaway, wasn't asked to hold the giveaway and there are no affiliate links.

A nice combination. Una Brennan Rose Hydrate Oil and Aurelia Miracle Cleanser

2013-04-08T16:10:00.000+01:00

So I'm using the Una Brennan Superfacialist Rose Hydrate Miracle Makeover Facial Oil (!!) pretty much every evening. What's not clear with her two oils, despite the inordinately overlong name, is that they are designed as a pre-cleanse. I've been asked if they are suitable as a facial oil - I can't see any reason why not - although I only use it as pre-cleanse. I prefer my treatment facial oils to be slightly thicker - better massage.

It's a strange one the Una Brennan range, I suspect the line is a joint venture with Boots - it's still the only place you can buy it and there is little from Una herself directly online. No website, just reviews from mags/blogs. Having said that - it's a good priced range and the products are for the most part, good.

This oil is great for loosening all makeup before your actual cleanse.

The Aurelia Miracle Cleanse is a really good follow up cleanser. It has the smell and kick of Cleanse & Polish but leaves the skin much softer and hydrated. It's the product I've used the most whilst trialing Aurelia and I previously reviewed it here.

A lovely twosome.

Stop the press: I was just sent this link by a lovely reader: http://www.superfacialist.co.uk/ Apologies Una!

Una Brennan is available here.

Aurelia is available here.

*press samples, no affiliates, not clients! :)

Well I wasn't away THAT long....

2013-04-08T15:45:00.000+01:00

I was up and wearing a bra by Tuesday - promise. I was just slammed last week in work which has led to a bit of a change in thinking.

I've previously withheld from discussing too much about my work or clients on here for various reasons - usually not wanting to appear to have 'favourites' and also because I'm not backward in coming forward with my opinions (I know, I know).

But work, my clients and day-to-day shenanigans in the beauty industry are such a huge part of my life - a life that I love - that it now seems odd to not share that on here. I think the readership is such that you trust me to give my honest opinion - client or not. And I will always disclose.

In all honesty the only way I can keep this blog going is if I integrate it more with my day-to-day. No sob story here - it just is what it is.. There's a reason I haven't posted for 10 days - no time. I'm not a pro blogger. I'm a hobby blogger. My actual 'work' is more than full time.

I had clients visiting from overseas last week and was playing chaperone all over London and the South Coast.
That, coupled with a major change in strategy for another client and the launch of another... left little time for anything else other than family.

So: I'll plod on - BUT - I will be hitting up my contacts in the industry for insider info, interviews and giveaways. I may as well use my address book to my (and your) advantage eh?

Thank you for sticking with me. And thank you for the emails and tweets saying 'Where ARE you?'.

I'm here.

Happy Easter!

2013-03-28T14:38:00.000Z

HAPPY EASTER!

I'm taking my bra off for 4 days. See you Tuesday.