Super Duper Facial
"Results-driven facial" are the beauty buzzwords of the moment, and although we do love a bit of pampering, we also want to get as much value as possible when handing out our precious euros. One company which is forging ahead with the new "power" facials is Espa.
Spokeswoman Tracey Chappell sets the bar high, saying the company is aiming to provide outstanding visible results with their new Super Actives facials. There are only 155 therapists worldwide qualified in these highly specialised treatments and three of them are at the Slieve Donard Hotel in Newcastle, Co Down.
With the euro standing up well against sterling, you might consider taking a little detour on your next shopping trip across the Border. The Super Actives Facial costs £140 at the Slieve Donard spa (tel: 028-43721066).
You've been framed
In my book, you can never have enough tips on eyebrows, as they are the all-important frame for the eyes. Shiseido’s Artistic Director Dick Page shares some of his knowledge:
They don’t need much to look right – keep them a bit unstructured, it makes your face look more dynamic Comb in every direction and decide yourself what looks most natural Use scissors to cut the ends of any hairs that are too long and pluck any strays For make-up, use powder or pencil, depending on your skill level – if you want a more structured look, hold them in place with eyebrow gel. Eyebrow pencils, shaping sets and setting gels from €16.10 at Shiseido counters.
More beautiful eyes
Buying eye shadows in sets is better value and ensures colour compatibility, as the shades are already co-ordinated for you. Dior’s 5 Couleurs shadow sets (€53) are a fail-safe choice and are a favourite with make-up artists who demand top quality textures and versatility.
To coincide with the 20th anniversary of the palette, Dior has released four new colourways, each combining matte and silky shades.
pclarke@irishtimes.com
The Getaway
I was not impressed during my last visit to the airport when I had to purchase a flimsy plastic bag to get my flight essentials through security. Well, they never seem to stay closed, do they?
The usual result is a scattering of your most precious cosmetic must-haves all over the grey plastic tray – not a good start to any trip. So I was delighted to see this clever travel bag from Guinot (€25) arriving on my desk. It conforms to the required size and has a secure zip closure.
I longed to keep it, but generously donated it to a colleague going on a long-haul flight. A one-step cleanser, anti-fatigue eye gel and deep moisturiser will ensure her skin is hydrated throughout the journey.
A soothing leg gel, finishing with a spritz of body mist, will have her arrive at her destination fresh as a daisy. Tel: 0818-719303 for stockists.
PIZ OF CAKE
Whatever the weather, it’s now well and truly summer. Time to tan, and guess what – 2009 is the summer of the “no-tan”. The wha? That’s beauty speak for an understated healthy glow to the body, with a hint of natural looking colour.
Just as the “no make-up look” is one of the most difficult to achieve, the no-tan takes some work in order to look like you haven’t done anything at all. Prepare your skin by exfoliating, to ensure smooth skin and an even application of product.
I’m a bit phobic about applying a non-tinted cream – you can’t see the colour and where it’s going, plus you have to wait four hours to go out in public. Take control of your tan with Piz Buin Colour Dial (€22.99), which allows you to customise your tan with a twist dial containing five shades. It’s a brilliant idea and gives a natural finish, with no nasty smell, either.