QGossip

Get beauty tips from our experts

2009-07-18T22:00:00+01:00

As part of Beauty Month, we've launched a brand-new show Meet the Beauty Experts and it's third show is airing this Sunday 19th July at 4pm.

We caught up with Monne and ghd from the third show to get their top tips and advice on featured products...

Monne on Express Tan Liquid Duo

This is one of the orginal items from the range and is great for creating an all-year holiday glow.

How to apply to your face:

- Simply add a few drops into your favourite moisturiser or sunscreen and apply. It's that simple to add a little color to your face throughout the year.

How to apply all over:

- Wear disposable rubber gloves or apply with a sponge to the desired area. You can also add to your body moisturiser and control the level of colour simply by adding more or less liquid.

Key benefits:

- Offers long-wearing coverage that fades naturally like a sun tan
- Helps eliminate the appearance of pigmentation, age spots and stretch marks
- Doesn't clog the pores and is suitable for oily and acne skin types.

The result is simply gorgeous!

Jo Robertson from ghd on Purple Hair Styler & Dryer Gift Set

ghd hairstylers are perfect for creating a host of fun and sexy styles, but intense heat is not always your hair's best friend. So, here are my top tips to keep it protected and looking its best...

Make sure your hair is completely dry

It's essential to have dry hair before you use your ghd styling irons. As it’s easy to mistake warm hair for being dry, wait a little after hairdrying.

Ensure your styling products have also dried before you use your styling irons. If not they can build up on your stylers causing them to stick when pulled through your hair. This can then cause your hair to stiffen, loosing its natural look

Always use a thermal protector

It's so important to protect your hair ready for styling as the heat can take away its moisture. Follow this routine to keep your hair protected:

1. Condition your hair after washing
2. Blot dry with a towel (not too rough as it can damage your hair cuticles)
3. Apply a light misting of a thermal protector - use 4/5 pumps from a good distance (not too close)
4. Put your head forward and run your fingers through it
5. Then you can blow-dry your hair before styling it

If hair cuticles break, through heat for example, they will not reflect as much light and so your hair will not shine as much.

How to store your stylers

Most people wrap the cord around the irons. Don't do this as it can damage the cord! Simply loosely loop the wire without stressing it at all. A heat-protective bag would also be recommended.

Don't forget to check out our first and second instalment of 'Meet the Beauty Experts' for more expert advice.

Plus, for even more advice, check out Alison Young's Beauty Bible

How to apply today's Bare Escentuals TSV

2009-07-17T23:00:00+01:00

Hi everyone,

I'm Sarah Jane from Bare Escentuals and I'm so excited about today's TSV. To get you the best results possible, I thought I'd drop in to give you a few of my tops tips...

What makes bareMinerals so special?

Being 100% pure bareMinerals without any preservatives is only the beginning. Mined in exclusive regions around the country, our formula gives you the full coverage you desire without the chemicals your skin doesn’t need. It's make-up so pure you can sleep in it!

Today's TSV: The Purist Collection

What's in this seven-piece kit?

SPF15 Foundations (2g) x 2 - this buffs on like silk for flawless coverage without the look or feel of wearing make-up
Pure Radiance All-Over-Face Colour (0.85g) adds a splash of peach lustre for that perfectly pure glow
Purist Eye Colour (0.57g) makes a luminous base colour and highlights the eyes
Harmony Eye Colour (0.57g) provides incredibly cream colour and texture
Promise Blush (0.85g) casts a soft, radiant glow for a beautiful, healthy-looking tone that lasts all day long
Raspberry Tea Natural Lipgloss (100g) gives superior shine in a rich berry rose shade
Flawless Application Face Brush buffs and blends the foundation, face colour and blush effortlessly

Finally, it all comes in a deluxe case to keep your make-up and brushes neatly organised on the go

My top application tips

1. Buff the Foundation all over your face with the Face Brush for impeccable coverage
2. For a lit-from-within peach glow, apply the All Over Face Colour to your skin using the Face Brush
3. Dress up your eyes by buffing a sheer, butter-chiffon wash of Purist Eye Colour from the lash base up to the brow. Highlight softly under your brow bone for a lifted look
4. Add true depth by sweeping Harmony Eye Colour back and forth into the crease contours of your eyes
5. Frame your eye by applying a thicker line of Harmony Eye Colour along the upper and lower lash lines. For richer colour intensity, apply it with a dampened brush
6. Add a natural, guava-pink glow to your face by softly buffing Promise Blush along the apples of your cheeks with the Face Brush
7. Complete your look with the rich, berry-rose shade of Raspberry Tea Natural Lipgloss

See the results...

For more expert beauty advice, check out Alison Young's Beauty Bible

QVC at the UK Jewellery Awards 2009

2009-07-16T17:28:01+01:00

We're proud to announce that QVC UK has been chosen as the official media partner of the UK Jewellery Awards 2009.

This year the Awards are focusing on Italian design and to tie in with this we'll be bringing you an hour of the most gorgeous Italian gold jewellery in our Italian Gold with the UK Jewellery Awards at 1pm on Tuesday 21st July.

As we're the media partner, we'll also be showing off some of our top jewellery brands on the catwalk at the Awards. But don't worry about missing out - we're hosting a special programme at 10pm on Tuesday 21st July to showcase the brands and designs we chose for the show.

And as if that wasn't enough excitement, one of our favourite collections - V&A Inspired Jewellery - has been shortlisted for the prestigious Jewellery Brand of the Year award! Take a closer look at our collection to see why their amazing designs have been nominated.

Find out more about the Retail Jeweller UK Jewellery Awards 2009 here.

See what Kathy made with today's cooker TSV

2009-07-16T10:52:45+01:00

Roast chicken, toad-in-the-hole and toasted sandwiches - these are just some of the dishes you can rustle up with today's Czech cooker TSV.

See what happened when Kathy Tayler tested the Czech cooker and made a dish for the whole family - we think you'll agree is looks very delicious!

Judith Ripka Diamonique arrives at QVC UK!

2009-07-16T10:42:17+01:00

If you've ever had a peek at our sister website QVC US, then you might have heard of Judith Ripka already. However, if her name and designs are new to you, then read on to find out more...

Judith is an award-winning jewellery designer from New York, and her many achievements include winning the De Beers Award for Diamond Design, as well as being inducted into the Council of Fashion Designers of America.

You can now treat yourself to her range of Diamonique that she's created just for QVC customers. Hollywood stars love it and I'm sure you will too...

What celebrities have worn your jewellery?

Lately I've been thrilled to see all generations wearing my designs on the red carpet, from chic Hollywood mothers like Isla Fisher and Brooke Shields, to the fresh young trend-setters Miley Cyrus and Vanessa Hudgens.

I could barely contain my excitement when I saw Sarah Jessica Parker wearing one of my signature necklaces in an episode of 'Sex And The City'. I'd always considered it to be a classic piece, yet here it was suddenly looking very fashion-forward!

One of the most interesting celebrity experiences I had was when Elton John asked me to make a belt buckle for him!

Tell us more about the inspirations behind your designs...

My mother was a couturier and my most influential teacher in both life and art. She taught me to see the beauty in the most common details which has helped to shape my sense of style and design.

The women who wear my jewellery are also a great inspiration to me. I still get a thrill when I walk down the street and see someone wearing my designs.

What makes your jewellery designs different?

I like to think that each piece I create reflects my passion for design. I make wearable jewellery that's understated and elegant that can be worn with anything from jeans to evening wear and everything in between! I want women to enjoy my jewellery and not consign it to the back of the drawer and only wear it on special occasions.

Judith's top tip:
Transform your outfit from day to evening by adding a pendant to a chain to make it look and feel more special. A necklace can take on a whole new meaning with different pendants.

Here's a preview of some of Judith's fabulous new jewellery:

Don't miss Judith Ripka's collection on Friday 17th July at 12pm and 7pm.

See the full range.

Also, read about Alison Keenan's excitement on launching the new range.

From Dragon's Den to QVC

2009-07-15T22:30:00+01:00

If you caught last night's Dragon's Den you would have seen the ingenious TrueCall answering service given a thumbs up from the hard-nosed dragons.

And with Peter Jones' praise for the item still ringing in your ears, you can get this TrueCall unit here at QVC!

The TrueCall device is a 'spam filter' for your home phone, which helps you to screen your calls so you don't need to speak to telemarketers or nuisance callers if you don't want to. It also holds up to 140 hours of messages and recorded phone calls.

Sounds pretty handy if you ask us.

To watch it on last night's show, visit the Dragon's Den site.

Touch the future with Sunday's HP TSV

2009-07-15T16:56:36+01:00

If you're a fan of gadgets then you simply won't want to miss the amazing piece of kit we've got in store for you as our Today's Special Value offer on Sunday 19th July.

Tune in or visit us online on the day to see HP's latest laptop, boasting an incredible touch-screen interface as well as a whole host of top-of-the-range features for you to drool over!

See our full computing range here

Guess the presenter...

2009-07-15T16:27:59+01:00

It's that time of week again, so get your thinking caps on! Who is this handsome presenter?

If you think you know whose self-portrait this is, leave your guess in the comment box below.

Good luck!

Watches by JLO makes its debut on QVC UK

2009-07-13T17:37:32+01:00

If you love all things big, bold and glittering you'll simply love Watches by JLO, making its debut tomorrow at 7pm.

Designed by successful singer/actress Jennifer Lopez, you can now recreate her Hollywood glamour and show-stopping style with her range of watches.

The bold designs embody her sassy Latino essence and reflect her style with heart motifs and glittering Swarovski crystals. So, why not accessorise with one her creations for maximum red-carpet glamour!

Here's a sneak preview of her designs…

Don't forget to catch the full collection tomorrow at 7pm.

Craft experts predict the next big trends

2009-07-13T17:31:04+01:00

What do you need to predict the next big thing in crafting? A crystal ball? Some tea leaves? We turned to experts from the UK's top craft mags to get their opinions on the top techniques of the moment...

"I'm really excited about experimenting with different ways to use paper, such as origami and tea bag folding, as they're really on-trend at the moment!"
- Sarah Capel, Deputy Editor of Crafts Beautiful

"One of the things I'd really like to try this year is flocking"

- Anastasia Grabov - Deputy Editor of Let's Make Cards

"I think people are going to become bolder with colour, as influenced by the fashion world"

- Sarah Capel, Deputy Editor of Crafts Beautiful

"This Christmas, embellishments are the key thing to look at"
- Laura Cruickshank, Editor of Sew magazine

Learn more about what's hot in the world of craft with our Craft Technique Week two-hour specials from Tuesday 14th July - Thursday 16th July, at 8pm.

Also... exclusive offer to QVC viewers - Subscribe to Crafts Beautiful magazine today for just £29.99! Visit www.crafts-beautiful.com/qvc or call 0844 844 0381 quoting QVC (lines open Monday - Friday 8am - 8pm, Sat 9am-1pm excluding bank holidays).

Check out the great range of products available in our Craft department

What's Julia saying to Alison and Craig?

2009-07-13T12:00:44+01:00

Here's a pic from the latest rounders match between the Presenters and the QVC Broadcast team.

What do you think Julia is saying while brandishing that bat? And what are Alison K and Craig thinking?

Tell us your suggestion by leaving a comment in the section below.

You can see more rounders photos on our Twitter feed.

The winner of our Elemis competition is...

2009-07-13T11:22:06+01:00

Wow! We had a fantastic response to our Elemis competition to win a luxurious spa break and Elemis goody bag, so a big thank you to everyone who entered.

Before we reveal the winner, let's remind you of the question:

Which Elemis product did SHE magazine vote 'Best for Anti-Ageing'?

The correct answer was: A) Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream

Well done to all of you who guessed correctly! Our lucky winner is Fawzia Schrueder from Farmoor, Oxford. Congratulations to you and the friend you decide to take with you!

If you weren't lucky this time, keep checking back for more competitions coming soon...

Keeley explains how to use today's Elemis TSV

2009-07-12T23:00:00+01:00

Hi everyone, Keeley from Elemis here.

I'm so excited about today's TSV! I thought I'd drop by and give you a little more information about it and a few tips to help you get the best results...

Elemis Tri-Enzyme Skin Smoothing System

The patented Elemis Tri-Enzyme System is a revolutionary skincare range which uses a trio of enzymes to work with the skin’s own enzymes to gently resurface the skin and encourage natural surface cell renewal.

When people think about resurfacing the skin, generally acid peels and micro-dermabrasion is what comes to mind. These aggressively strip away the top layer of the skin which can leave it thinner, dry and more prone to break-outs. The Elemis Tri-Enzyme System is different as it uses natural enzymes that work with the skin to improve tone, texture and radiance.

How to use the Elemis Skin Smoothing System

Step 1: Use award-winning Tri-Enzyme Resurfacing Facial Wash to replenish moisture levels found in the skin. Apply morning and evening, massage onto the face and then remove with warm water. Always use a toner after to rebalance the pH level of your skin.

Step 2: Use Tri-Enzyme Resurfacing Serum by smoothing 2 pumps onto the face and neck, followed by your Elemis moisturiser.

Step 3: Finally twice a week, for your extra kick of Tri-Enzyme action, apply new Tri-Enzyme Resurfacing Gel Mask after using Tri-Enzyme Resurfacing Facial Wash. Leave on for 8 - 10 minutes and then remove with warm water. On application you will feel a powerful tingling sensation - don’t panic, this is the Tri-Enzymes activating on your skin. The results from this product are outstanding! Follow with Tri-Enzyme Resurfacing Serum then your Elemis moisturiser.

What you think about our Tri-Enzyme products

pickles from Stourbridge: "I have seen a vast improvement to the texture of my skin and the firmness. The gel mask is absolutely divine - it leaves my skin beautifully soft and smooth"

Haspink from London: "The new gel mask gives amazing results, it feels cool and fresh and you see a difference in your skin straight away."

pjay from Wales: "Every product in the Tri-Enzyme range is superb, but the new gel mask surpasses them all."

View the full Elemis range

Guess the presenter revealed...

2009-07-10T16:33:43+01:00

How do you think you did this week? Well now you can find out... this self-portrait belongs to our very own Julia Roberts!

Well done to everyone who got it right!

Check back next week for more guess the presenter...

Pick up beauty tips from more of our experts

2009-07-10T14:46:37+01:00

As part of Beauty Month, we've launched a brand-new show Meet the Beauty Experts and it's second show is airing this Sunday 12th July at 4pm.

We caught up with the experts from the show to get their top tips and advice for products featured in the show...

Real Hair on Real Cleanse and Moisture Duo

Real Cleanse shampoo is as gentle as a facial cleanser and contains acerola fruit and red seaweed, usually found in Eastern skincare. Dampen your hair, place the product into your hands and lather into your hair - repeat again if necessary.

Real Moisture is an everyday conditioner that won't leave your hair feeling heavy, and can be applied to even the finest hair. Once the hair has been freshly washed, this conditioner should be combed through the entire length of the hair, from the ends up to the root. Rinse thoroughly.

For best results...

Use with Real Masque. This should be used like a facial masque - simple apply to freshly washed hair and leave on for a minimum of 15 minutes. Then rinse and style as normal

Complete your haircare routine with Real Finish. It can be used in a variety of ways:

- Leave wet on naturally curly or wavy hair to help define curls
- Use at the beach as it contains added sun protection
- Work through dry frizzy hair to help tame any frizz
- Apply as a finishing product to help enhance layers and define shape.

Alpha-H on Trilogy Resurfacing Collection

This collection is designed to target six different areas: fine lines, age spots, discolouration, deep wrinkles, dull complexions and enlarged, congested pores. What I totally adore about this collection is that it will work with your other skincare assortments, simply use where you normally would apply your toner.

Liquid Harmony is your alarm clock for your skin each morning and a delightful way to say hello to fresh, radiant skin in an instant. Boosted with extracts of flowers and fruits, it works to prepare the skin for a perfectly smooth application of your make-up.

How to use:
Apply to freshly cleansed skin. Then allow to dry before applying your chosen SPF moisturiser.

Liquid Gold is the ultimate night time treat. Globally our best seller, Liquid Gold will fight all the signs of ageing, helping to restore your skin’s own natural vibrancy by removing dull surface cells.

How to use:
Apply every other night after cleansing. Simply wipe over the face, neck and décolleté and get ready for your overnight facial.

White Gold is an intensive product for skin that has been adored by the sun for too many years. We like to think of it as undoing the sins of your skin’s past!

How to use:
After cleansing, morning and night, apply White Gold to areas that exhibit sun-induced pigmentation and age spots. Allow to absorb before applying your preferred moisturiser.

Bobbi Brown on Lip Essentials Collection and Long Wear Eye Palette

Lip Essentials Collection

The reason I love this collection is because of the choice of textures and the amount of looks you can create from such a small kit. All the make-up can be worn individually or layered to create the perfect look for you.

The colour choices are some of the most wearable tones that we do at Bobbi and suitable for all skin tones. It gives you all you need for a natural daytime look and special occasions right through to red carpet glamour.

The Lip Liner matches the Creamy Lip Colour, saving you on any fashion mistakes, and this Lip Colour will give a wonderful moisturised feel to your lips. The Lipgloss will add a touch of glamour to any look .

Long Wear Eye Palette

This eye colour palette is an absolute must for anyone who finds their make-up doesn't last and is looking for all-day wear.

The texture of the Long Wear Cream Shadow is smooth and silky on application and easy to apply so every woman can be her own make-up artist. The duo of Cream Shadows are beautifully complemented by two of Bobbi’s iconic Long Wear Gel Eyeliners, which are real award winners.

The palette also contains Bobbi’s professional brushes to help you create a flawless look. In sleek packaging with a great mirror for application, this palette is a dream for anyone who loves beautiful long-wearing make-up from dawn to dusk.

Shavata on Brow Tamer Gel

The shape of your eyebrows will make or break your appearance so it really is imperative that you take time and care over their maintenance.

Badly shaped eyebrows can be very ageing - when they are too heavy or overgrown they can create dark circles and shadow under your eyes, making you look tired and your eyelids heavy and saggy. Removing a few hairs from the right place (particularly your arch) can make all the difference and really open your eyes.

This Brow Tamer Gel is a particular favourite of mine as it controls stray hairs, defines the eyebrow shape and will give them a sleek and tailored appearance. When applied across your brow from the central tip to the end (right to left/left to right), it will calm any deviant hairs and firmly secure them in place making any arch definition more prominent.

Unlike other brow mascaras on the market, the Brow Tamer is a click pen, which allows you to control the level of gel that you use at one time. A pen tip applicator is the easiest way to ‘comb up’ your brows and to hold them in place for a clean and manicured look.

Don't forget to check out our first instalment of Beauty expert tips for top how-to advice.

For more expert beauty advice, check out Alison Young's Beauty Bible

Recreate the latest sun-kissed look featured in Grazia!

2009-07-09T15:12:09+01:00

The style gurus at Grazia magazine have revealed their secret to sun-kissed skin - a 'blonzer'. This, they say, combines 'the skin-brightening flush of a blusher and the sun-kissed sheen of a bronzer' - and everyone's wearing one!

What's more, you can achieve this gorgeous summer holiday glow with our very own Laura Geller Balance 'N' Brighten. Sweep it over your face and decollete with a large blusher brush to brighten up your complexion.

So, wherever you go this summer, don't forget to apply a little 'blonzer'!

For more summer beauy buys, check out Alison Young's holiday essentials.

Guess the presenter...

2009-07-06T15:12:31+01:00

Get your guessing hats back on because here's another arty self-portrait for you to puzzle over. Who is this glam-looking presenter?

Let us know who you think it is by leaving a comment below.

Good luck!

Win more Elemis goodies in our Woman and Home competition

2009-07-02T08:00:00+01:00

To celebrate our July Beauty Month, Woman & Home are offering you the chance to win one of six sets of pampering Elemis goodies!

Each set contains: Pro-Collagen Marine Cream (50ml), Pro-Collagen Oxygenating Night Cream and Pro-Collagen Radiantly Smooth Body Cream (200ml) - worth about £250!

For your chance to enter, simply visit www.womanandhome.com and click on 'Competitions'.

And if you haven't already, don't forget to enter our other Elemis competition to win a luxurious spa break for two!

Guess the presenter revealed...

2009-07-01T17:11:16+01:00

Well this certainly was the hardest self-portrait yet! It seems the suit threw you. We can reveal that the presenter is the ever-stylish Glen Campbell.

Well done to those of you who got it right!

Keep your eyes peeled for more guess the presenter coming soon...

Our Bare Escentuals make-over winners enjoy their prize

2009-06-30T16:58:33+01:00

Back in May, we ran a competition to win a Bare Escentuals make-over for two by our lovely guest Sarah-Jane. Jane Little (right) from Carlisle was our lucky winner and she chose to bring her friend Liz (left) with her on the day.

We caught up with them after their make-over to find out how they got on and to check out their transformation (see photos below)...

So, what do you think of your finished look?

Jane: We're really pleased with it! It's not too heavy and quite natural looking, which we both prefer. We're both big fans of Bare Escentuals and love all of their products, so it's nice to be treated to the make-over and to see how SJ uses all the different products.

Which is your favourite product that SJ used on you today?

Jane: For me it has to be Warm Radiance and Mineral Veil - they are such great products. She also used a lovely lipgloss which felt all tingly on my lips!

Liz: Jane has always been telling me to try Mineral Veil and I'm so glad I now have! It gives such great coverage whilst still keeping you looking natural.

Will you be trying your new look out at home?

Jane and Liz: Oh, yes!

Jane: The new thing for me is wearing eyeshadow. I had lazer eye surgery only a few weeks ago and have only ever worn glasses before that, which I used to hide behind a lot. I wore mascara and eye liner but I just never bothered with eyeshadow. I love what she's done with my eyes today so I'll definitely be trying it out again when I get home.

Liz: I always wear glasses too - if I didn't I wouldn't be able to see a thing! But unlike Jane, I have always emphasised my eyes more. Sarah focussed on my eyes and lips a lot today, which I really like.

Can you share any of SJ's make-up techniques with us?

Liz: When SJ applied Warm Radiance onto my face, she used a technique that she called the 'B' and the '3'. You basically sweep the powder over one side of you face in a backwards 'B' shape and over the other side in a 3' shape. I found the powder then really framed my face.

Jane: And don't forget to swirl, tap and buff! Do these actions with your brush so you can get the right amount of powder onto it. Another tip she mentioned was always wearing a primer...

Liz: ... it really works! It acts as a canvas for your make-up and helps it to stay on longer. If you have any open pores and you then apply your powder straight on, it won't apply right. A primer will help with this.

How would you describe Bare Escentuals?

Jane: You just can't go wrong with it. Even if you apply too much by accident, you can just buff it off.

Liz: And it's all so easy to apply. I generally prefer powder formulas anyway as they feel much fresher and cleaner than a liquid. I always feel liquids are a bit too heavy.

Jane: Especially in this heat!

Where are you off to now to show off your new look?

Jane: Clubbing!

Liz: No, we're just going to have our own disco on the train back to Carlisle!

Jane's before and after photos

Liz's before and after shots

Jane and Liz after their make-over

Meet our beauty experts and get their top tips

2009-06-30T14:35:00+01:00

To celebrate July's Beauty Month, we're launching a brand-new show... Meet the Beauty Experts.

Here the experts share with you their tips on how best to use products featured in the show...

Sarah Gilpin from Elemis on Pro-Collagen Quartz Discovery Collection

This is one of my personal favourite collections for introducing friends to the Pro-Collagen range. Once you’ve used it, I guarantee you’ll be hooked!

My tips for getting the most from this collection:

- Cleanse and tone first. Then, twice a day use two pumps of Pro-Collagen Quartz Lift Serum followed by Pro-Collagen Marine Cream.

- Give your eyes a bit of attention every day with Pro-Collagen Eye Renewal - remember a little goes a long way, so apply sparingly. For more of a salon experience, lightly tap your fingers around the eyes when applying the product to help stimulate circulation. Never rub products around the eyes as the skin is very thin and can damage easily.

- Twice a week use Pro-Collagen Quartz Lift Mask. Apply the mask all over the face after cleansing and toning and leave on for 8-10 minutes, then remove with warm water. When you work the product over your skin, it transforms from a cream to a lovely gel texture. Once I’ve applied this I continue to work it into my fine lines to help get the most out of it.

- After using the mask, follow with Pro-Collagen Quartz Lift Serum, then Pro-Collagen Marine Cream. When I have a really special occasion coming up, I apply this for 10 consecutive evenings and leave overnight - the results speak for themselves!

Margaret Dabbs on her Foot Scrub and Lotion Collection

Foot file
Use first thing in the morning when the feet are at their driest and haven't begun to sweat. Aim the file away from you so that you're filing under the foot - this will reduce ridges in the skin. Once a week is enough.

Scrub
Wet the feet and rub in a small amount of the scrub using the spatula provided. Concentrate on areas of callus. You can also use this on nails to remove discolouration from old varnish or fake tan that has migrated onto the nails.

Serum
Apply this to the nails (fingers and toes) to help revitalise the cells. This will work to rehydrate the nails and stop them from cracking and creating ridges - results should be visible after about 4 days.

Intensive Hydrating Foot Lotion
Our best product and winner of the InStyle magazine 'Best Foot Product' award 2009. Use daily to moisturise the skin and reduce the build up of callus. You should see instant results which are long lasting.

Ultrasun on their suncare range

Our range of once-a-day sun protection is ideal for even the most sensitive skins as it contains no oils, fats, emulsifiers or perfumes. It's specially developed to give high levels of UVA and UVB protection, whilst still letting you achieve a golden tan.

It has a non-sticky, non-greasy formula and just one application delivers excellent protection. Simply apply to clean, dry skin for water-resistant protection.

Ultrasun SPF17 is a pure moisturising lipsome cream that requires just one application a day.

Ultrasun SPF20 is a clear lotion to protect the whole family. It's ideal for use with water sports and especially loved by men as there's no grease and no fuss.

Ultrasun Face SPF30 is for the face, neck, decolette and hands. It contains a new enzyme ingredient - ectoin - which helps to protect, moisturise and prevent the formation of wrinkles. Ultrasun Face SPF30 is a sun protection and beauty product in one!

Philip Kingsley on his Elasticizer

I first formulated Elasticizer for Audrey Hepburn and now it's a multi award-winning product in Europe and the USA.

Elasticizer helps to restore your hair's inherent elasticity, which decreases if it's chemically treated (by colour, bleach or perms) or 'weathered' (by wind, sun or your working environment). Even one application makes a difference.

How to apply:

Apply to dampened hair, work in with your fingertips, leave on for up to 20 minutes, and then shampoo out. The difference is instant, and continued use improves your hair’s elasticity even more. Elasticizer also gives extra shine and manageability. Apply once a week at first and then less often as the hair improves.

Tune in to Meet the Beauty Experts at 4pm on Sunday 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th July.

We announce the winners of our Philosophy competition

2009-06-29T14:41:17+01:00

Thanks to all of you who entered our Philosophy competition to win a fantastic goody box worth over £200.

Just to remind you all, the question was: Who founded Philosophy?

And the correct answer was: B) Cristina Carlino

Well done to all of you who guessed correctly. Now, we have five of these fabulous goody boxes to give away so I won't keep you in suspense any longer. The lucky winners are:

Val Lloyd from Norfolk
Jenny Nielsen from Southampton
Ms. M. Patel from Essex
Natalie Crane from the Wirral
Yasmine Choudhry from Sheffield

A big contrats to you all! If you weren't lucky this time, try your luck with more competitions coming soon...

Guess the presenter...

2009-06-26T10:06:05+01:00

It's that time of the week again, so put on your thinking caps and try your luck with this week's mysterious self-portrait. Who's this stylish presenter?

Tell us who you think this is by leaving your guess in the comment box below.

Good luck!

Philosophy expert Robin reveals her top skincare tips

2009-06-25T09:14:46+01:00

To celebrate our Philosophy Mini Series, we caught up with Philosophy expert Robin to find out about her skincare routine, top tips and much more.

Robin has over 20 years experience in the beauty business and now spends her time researching beauty trends and representing Philosophy at award ceremonies and on TV among other things.

Which is your favourite Philosophy product and why?

Purity Made Simple Cleanser! It's my desert island product. It easily removes my make-up (including my eye make-up) and leaves my skin feeling amazingly fresh all in one step. It's perfect on the days that I’m feeling lazy.

Its rich texture and calming scent make me look forward to washing my face. It has also become a bit of a family affair as I use it on my son and my husband uses it when he shaves – it's the ultimate multi-use product.

Top tip: I use this product to clean my make-up brushes. Its gentle formula will thoroughly clean off all the make-up and will leave them feeling super soft.

Describe your skincare routine

My morning skincare routine begins with the Microdelivery Wash, which invigorates my skin while cleansing and gently exfoliating. I follow that with When Hope is Not Enough Facial Firming Serum mixed with Turbo Booster C Powder. I then apply Hope in a Bottle moisturiser.

I have a separate night time skincare routine that begins with Purity Made Simple Cleanser to remove all my make-up as well as dirt that has built up throughout the day. Other products include a pea-size amount of Help Me and When Hope is Not Enough Replenishing Oil to rehydrate my skin.

Each week, I like to use the Microdelivery Peel. It refreshes my skin and brings its radiance back. I just love its fresh orange scent and sugar-like texture.

Which is the perfect fragrance for: A relaxing bath after work?

I would recommend Inner Grace. Its scent is designed to help bring a sense of calm and peace into your life. Its important for us to find some time in our busy lives where we can have a quiet moment and clear our minds.

Getting ready for a dinner date?

I absolutely recommend our Falling in Love scent. This romantic fragrance will make you feel gorgeous and set the mood for a wonderful night out.

Early mornings?

To set the mood for a great day, I recommend either Amazing Grace or Pure Grace. Both of these fragrances provide a very clean start to the day.

Amazing Grace is Philosophy’s best-selling fragrance and will leave you feeling clean and beautifully feminine. Pure Grace will give you the ultra-fresh, 'just stepped out of the shower' feeling all day long.

What are your top tips for keeping your skin looking great from top to toe?

To keep your skin looking fabulous, make sure that your daily beauty routine includes:

•  Vitamin C – the ultimate antioxidant.
•  Retinol (vitamin A) – one of the hottest trends in skincare at the moment.
•  Sun protection – wearing an SPF everyday is key to keeping our skin looking healthy and radiant.

In addition to your beauty routine, there are lifestyle choices that can greatly affect our skin's appearance. I recommend avoiding prolonged sun exposure, getting plenty of sleep and not smoking!

Visit our Philosophy shop

If you haven't already, don't forget to enter our fantastic Philosophy competition.

Tune in for more Philosophy tips and expert advice in Philosophy Mini Series on Thursday 25th June from 10pm - 12am and from Friday 26th June - Sunday 28th June at 11pm.

Guess the presenter revealed...

2009-06-24T15:12:41+01:00

This presenter's self-portrait had many of you fooled, with lots of you guessing Claire and Julia as possibilities.

We won't keep you in suspense any longer, this presenter is... Alison Keenan!

This was a tricky one so if you got it right, you deserve a big pat on the back!

Look out for more guess the presenter self-portraits coming soon...

Take a peek at Tuesday's Casio camera TSV

2009-06-24T10:48:55+01:00

If you're in the market for a high-spec compact camera from a name you can trust, then see our Today's Special Value on Tuesday 30th June.

Perfect for taking super holiday snaps, you can find out more about this stylish Casio camera by tuning in to QVC TV or checking out qvcuk.com

In the meantime, read our expert tips on how to take the best photos.

Gardening advice from Charlie Dimmock

2009-06-19T17:29:15+01:00

Charlie Dimmock of Ground Force fame is making her QVC debut this weekend in our Summer Garden with Charlie Dimmock shows. We caught up with her to chat about growing her own veg, ponds and getting the giggles...

What's your own garden like?

It's quite cottage-like - my front garden is totally chaotic and everybody turns up and goes 'Oh, what a mess!" but I've left it like that for the wildlife.

You don't want to be too tidy in your garden, have one or two areas where you just let things happen - then you'll have more wildlife and less pests.

In my back garden I've got a pond with a little waterfall. It's very cottagey so I've got lots of poppies, corn cockles and roses, lilies, clematis and a few bedding plants. And then I've got quite a big vegetable patch.

Do you have any tips for growing your own veg?

If you want to start growing your own veg, then you don't need a whole vegetable patch. There are so many containers out there, or you can add fruit and veg amongst your flower beds, which can look quite pretty.

For instance, you can grow runner beans amongst your roses, no problems, they're all going to die in the winter anyway. And you only need two or three runner bean plants to get a good crop. Tomatoes in a container look lovely with sweet basil or parsley underplanting. It's quite straightforward.

So for someone starting off I'd say go for the salad vegetables and keep it simple by going for four or five varieties. Try...

- a type of lettuce
- a couple of tomato plants
- some runner beans
- radishes
- coriander or rocket

You're renowned for your water features - why do they appeal to you?

I'm biased but I think having water in a garden adds another dimension - even if you only have a balcony or a seating area, the effect is the same. Water is a sensory thing; the sound of the moving water, the reflection of the light - it's all very relaxing.

What's your advice to someone choosing a water feature for their garden?

I'd recommend thinking about the sound you'll get from your water feature, because while water can sound very relaxing, it can be a bit overpowering in a small conservatory or enclosed space.

Even a birdbath counts as a water feature, and every form of wildlife needs water. You'll have butterflies drinking from it, and bees and birds bathing and drinking in it.

Some people think that ponds are parts of the garden that are low maintenance - that's not true.

How then should you maintain your pond?

The plants will keep a pond balanced, clean and looking nice. But because they're herbaceous plants, you need to split them through and revamp them every 5 - 7 years, which is quite hard work.

That's why you may be better off with a water feature that has moving water, but which isn't a pond. A water feature is easier to maintain because it's just water and you can drain it down and refill it.

A pond for me is a whole micro-environment which you can stand and watch for ages - suddenly you realise you've been stood there for three-quarters of an hour and you haven't done anything! Ponds are very relaxing and interesting, but they're not low maintenance.

What plants do you recommend for ponds?

It depends on whether you're going to keep fish in there, but for your average ornamental pond, you must have two types of plant: oxygenating weed, and water lilies or something similar that lays on the surface to cut out the sunlight.

These are your key workers to help keep your pond clear and balanced. The other marginal plants around the edge are much more aesthetic and don't do any hard work.

How did you get into TV?

I started off on Richard Jackson's garden programme Grass Roots. On my first show I put a pond into a neighbour's garden, which they filmed, and then I got a screen test for Ground Force about three years later.

What was it like on Ground Force?

Good fun and hard work. When you work regularly with any team of people you have fun and there's a lot of jokes going on.

The first series we did was quite spread out, filming every 2 - 3 weeks, whereas the second series we did back to back, which was more full on and pretty hard work. But for the third series we saw each other every other week. So it was more like 'Oh, how are you?' and things were more upbeat.

Do you have any funny Ground Force stories?

There were lots of silly things - there was a long-running joke about crème de menthe frappe which for the life of me I can't remember what it was about!

We always used to leave a set of Ground Force chairs in the garden, like the ones film directors have, and we'd sign them. Our director wanted to film us signing them all at the same time and Tommy spelt his name wrong! Oh, and Tommy is really bad for getting giggling fits!

You can catch Charlie from 9am - 11pm on Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st June,

For more gardening tips, take a look at Richard Jackson's Gardening Advice Centre

Guess the presenter...

2009-06-19T10:26:46+01:00

Here's another self-portrait for you to work out... this one's a little tricky but the fabulous big hair is a bit of a clue. Can you guess who this smiley presenter is?

Tell us who you think it is by leaving your guess in the comment box below.

Happy guessing!

Tova tells us about today's special TSV

2009-06-19T00:00:00+01:00

I just wanted to tell you a little bit about today's extra-special TSV - a sparkling Diamonique ring. Ernest presented this ring to me to celebrate 25 years of our marriage together.

We're incurable romantics! You may remember that we have renewed our vows five different times over the last years.

In celebration of this romantic occasion, this magnificent ring was created to depict the bridge of love in dazzling princess-cut simulated diamonds. Marriage is filled with bridges so I've create dazzling rows of sparkling stones to show just this. And I want everyone to enjoy the feeling of romance and elegance every time they wear it.

It's my joy to share this love ring with you...

Love Tova

Hairstyle tips and trends from ghd guest Jo Robertson

2009-06-18T12:50:37+01:00

Feel like doing something a little different with your hair? Want to jazz it up for a special occasion? We chatted to Jo Robertson, hair stylist for ghd, to find out how she balances work at fast-paced ghd and being a busy mum and to get some of her style secrets too...

Did you always know you wanted to work with hair?

It was a done deal really, I always wanted to be a hair stylist. I started about 21 years ago when I was about 16 and worked in various salons. Five years ago I opened by own salon Harrington Robertson and two years ago I joined ghd. Since then I've been kept busy with magazine work, fashion weeks, teaching seminars and much more.

How would you describe the brand ghd?

Cool, iconic and always a step ahead. I always compare ghd to Madonna, who is constantly reinventing herself. You think that she can't take her look any further, and then she does. That's what we try and do at ghd.

What are this summer's on-trend hair styles?

It's the undone but done look. Where last year was a lot more structured, this year's look is looser, messier and effortless-looking - all though it still can take a little time! It's that sexy, laid-back on-the-beach look with loose curls and waves.

How do you style your hair for the salon and for the evening?

Well, I'm 37, I have a ten-year-old son, I have my own salon and I'm constantly travelling about to different fashion shows and shoots with ghd - yet I still have to think about making sandwiches and school homework! So, I can't spend hours doing my hair in the morning.

Luckily, my hair is naturally curly. So, I just use a few products to make my hair look even curlier and to keep it in shape throughout the day. I especially like ghd Sea Spray, which is in the ghd Beach Bundle Collection. This just makes my curls that little bit bigger.

In the evening, I go for the grab-and-pin look. Whether you have natural curls or you create them with one of our ghd stylers, simply grab your hair at the back and pin it up. It's as simple as that. You can use as many hair pins as you like and then I tend to just check that what's showing looks ok and I may straighten my fringe a little as a finishing touch! I then like to accessorise with scarves, feathers, decorative hair pins etc.

How should we protect our hair in the sun?

It's so important to protect your hair in the sun, just as it is to care for your hair after using stylers. I recommend our ghd Beach Bundle Collection. This contains a Purifying Shampoo to help wash away chlorine and provide your hair with UV protection. Then there's Sea Spray for gorgeous wavy hair and Thermal Protector for added protection.

Lastly, you'll get Miracle Mist which is great just combed through your hair while you're sunning yourself or applied afterwards to help soften and smooth.

Can you give us a hint about the upcoming ghd TSV?

It's all about safari chic and it's unique, sleek, fast and dangerous!

If that's got you excited, tune in for a super-stylish ghd TSV and more tips from Jo on Saturday 20th June at 12am - 2am, 11am, 3pm, 6pm, 9pm and 11pm.

Check out the full ghd range