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Thursday, April 18, 2019
Beauty news: L’Oréal Paris announces Céline Dion as its newest spokesmodel
Over the years, living icon Céline Dion has worn many hats. She’s been a kick ass singer, devoted wife and mother, award winner, the leader of a sold out Las Vegas show and mostrecently, unabashed supporter of take-no-prisoners haute couture. Now she can add beauty industry face to that list with the announcement that L’Oréal Paris, the #1 global beauty brand, has proudly named the legendary performing and recording artist as the brand’s newest spokeswoman.
Céline is one of the most celebrated and admired women in the world – a true icon who is incredibly close to her legion of fans. Beyond her powerful voice and unstoppable stage presence, she is also a woman of substance known for her renowned accomplishments and extraordinary personality. Resilient, self-confident, unapologetic, generous and humble, she is a true symbol of female empowerment and a qualified woman of worth.
“L’Oréal Paris has a longstanding history of supporting women in their journey to fulfil themselves according to their own rules and desire,” says Pierre-Emmanuel Angeloglou - L’Oréal Paris Global Brand President. “Signing Céline Dion as the newest member of the L’Oréal Paris family builds on our mission of aligning with spokeswomen who are strong, self-empowered, assertive, diverse and inclusive. Céline Dion is a woman of innate self-worth – following her heart to achieve success, challenge stereotypes and trailblaze the path for so many other women – and fully embodies our brand mission of ‘Because I’m Worth it.’”
With Céline Dion’s long-standing Las Vegas residency coming to an end this June, it is only the beginning of a new chapter for the celebrated star. As she continues to not only further cement her status as a beauty and fashion icon and social media sensation, she is also set to release a new, highly anticipated album later this year. The 51-year-old will make her debut for L’Oréal Paris in Excellence Hair Color advertising. Shot in the heart of Paris, the light-hearted television spot highlights the humorous and playful side of the superstar. Céline Dion’s Excellence Hair Color television spot premieres worldwide on April 22nd, and I can’t wait to see what she and the global beauty giant have created.
Tuesday, April 16, 2019
All about: Clinic 42’s Photo Finish Treatment
The idea of using a dermastamp or gun and needling to push product into the skin has been around for some time now, and elicited some great results for many in terms of hydration. What about if you could take that concept to the next level however, and deliver some seriously transformative results?
Skin that is “plump, hydrated and younger looking” is what Clinic 42 is offering with their Photo Finish skin treatment, which I have tried and was completely blown away by. Delivering a special blend of botulinum toxin (AKA botox) and hyaluronic acid to the skin using the latest technology, it’s a Clinic 42 only treatment and super effective when treating the face or neck and décolletage. The visible results last for between 6-18 months at a cost of $1,100 per treatment, and the result I had really was remarkable.
Designed to improve crepiness, fine lines, skin texture and the size of pores, the Photo Finish treatment has little down time, with only mild redness and possible bruising visible immediately afterwards. I had one to treat my neck and décolletage after a summer in the sun, and it was the perfect treatment to help match the texture of the skin on my face to what lay below, which isn’t always as well shielded.
In the procedure, thin hyaluronics are mixed in with a mini-dose of the botulinum toxin, and when combined, they moisturise the skin from the inside out while simultaneously smoothing fine lines and minimising pores. After numbing cream takes effect (an essential IMHO), the product is administered using a dermal gun to the entire area being treated, which can be the entire face, neck and décolletage or back of hands. The mix is planted very superficially, just under the skin, where the hyaluronics attract moisture, so the skin becomes smooth and elastic from the inside out. The botulinum is in such a small dose that it does not impact on the facial muscles themselves, so no ‘freezing’ effect comes into play if you’re botox-shy. What it does do is relax the most superficial lines and wrinkles, softness assured. The output of sweat and sebaceous glands is also reduced, helping to minimise the appearance of pores, and the needle delivery system encourages collagen stimulation. In other words: the treatment is a win-win. After two to six weeks you would expect to see a luminous, plump and healthy looking skin – no Instagram filter or photoshop required.
I had my treatment with Clinic 42’s Dr. Joanna Romanowska, and allowed two hours for the procedure, which included time for them to apply a topical anaesthetic to minimise discomfort. The treatment itself can vary depending on the area being treated and can take anywhere from 20 – 40 minutes, and I felt pretty much next to nothing throughout. Immediately afterwards Joanna applied a soothing sheet mask - and then I was on my way. Within 48 hours all traces of redness had disappeared, and within two weeks the result was amazing.
The Photo Finish treatment is only available at Clinic 42, 321 Manukau Road, Epsom (see www.clinic42.co.nz for further information) and comes highly recommended.
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Tuesday, April 9, 2019
All about: Trilogy’s new Vitamin C Booster Treatment and Vitamin C Moisturising Lotion
The antioxidant properties of vitamin C (AKA ascorbic acid) and its role in collagen synthesis make the sunny-hued little beauty a vital molecule for skin health. Dietary and topical ascorbic acid have beneficial effects on skin cells, and some studies have even shown that vitamin C may help prevent and treat ultraviolet (UV)-induced photodamage. To break the news gently: you NEED the stuff on your face, as well as in your diet. Lucky for us there’s some clever skincare brands doing unique things with it, and formulas to suit every skin.
The latest innovation in Vitamin C I’ve tried is from New Zealand skincare legends Trilogy, and comes in the form of a double whammy: a Vitamin C Booster Treatment and Vitamin C Moisturising Lotion. The new Vitamin C Moisturising Lotion is a super light, refreshing daily use hydrating lotion that harnesses the power of antioxidant-rich vitamin C to promote a brighter and even complexion. In addition, the inclusion of Trilogy’s most famous ingredient - rosehip oil - boosts hydration, while daisy extract helps to improve the appearance of pigmentation, giving skin that ‘lit from within’ look as the refreshing scent of mandarin oil awakens the senses. It’s beautiful under makeup and on its own, and is a nice solid go-to for those looking to enter the world of Vitamin C.
Now to add a next level boost to your new daily faithful: you use it in conjunction with Trilogy’s new Vitamin C Booster Treatment for a freshly activated, two-week intense brightening beauty treatment packed with high potency natural vitamin C powder in its freshest and most active form. Vitamin C is always at its most active when it’s fresh, so this little booster includes a unique dispensing mechanism which pops with freshness when the 100 per cent pure vitamin C powder is released into an ultra-hydrating hyaluronic acid concentrate enriched with daisy extract, rosehip and mandarin oil. The fresh activation ensures the powder’s potency levels are at their optimal level to deliver maximum skin brightening results. Once activated, the treatment is designed to be used twice daily for two consecutive weeks to visibly boost the skin’s own unique glow and to help improve the overall appearance of dull and tired skin. This makes it perfect for use before an important event, or as a real pick me up when you think your skin needs it most. To use it, pop the cap and give it a good shake. Then, carefully remove the cap and replace it with the pipette dropper you’ll find in the pack. Apply 3-4 drops to clean face, neck and décolletage morning and night, followed by your go-to Vitamin C Moisturising Lotion. In two weeks’ you’ll see some pretty magical results, and both products are suitable for pretty much all skin types.
Last up, Vitamin C taken internally is also hugely beneficial for the skin, but not all formulas are created equal. The type most recommended by me is LivOn's patented Lypo-Spheric Vitamin C, which encapsulates the C molecules in liposomes made from essential phospholipids that protect it from destruction by your digestive juices. This means it’s transported directly into the bloodstream - and into the cells – to help protect cells from the damage caused by free radicals and support a healthy immune system.
Trilogy Vitamin C Booster Treatment (RRP $44.99) and Trilogy Vitamin C Moisturising Lotion (RRP $52.99) are available right now from selected Farmers, pharmacy, department and health stores nationwide. For more information, visit www.trilogyproducts.com.
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Monday, April 8, 2019
Beauty news: Alterna Caviar Anti-Aging haircare lands in NZ
Prior to its official launch into New Zealand a couple of weeks ago, I have to confess that I’d never heard of Alterna haircare. Clearly I’d been actually hiding under a rock, because in the world of luxury-focused hair brands it is most definitely a key player.
Alterna has created a line of beautiful to use ‘free from’ formulas with clinically proven results, meaning no more choosing between natural ingredients and high-performance haircare. So you CAN have clean and luxury too, all tied up in one very pretty package.
Alterna actually launched over twenty years ago with a mission to reset the standard in luxury haircare. “An alternative vision was born” says their press material, and a revolutionary range of products was created “where luxury and performance remained uncompromised”. With an unwavering commitment to create premium products that are free of additives and harsh chemicals, Alterna set about creating an anti-aging haircare system like no other in the form of Caviar Anti-Aging.
Among one of the first brands to provide formulas enriched with active botanicals that are free of added sulfates, parabens, and synthetic colours, Alterna has blended Omega-3 rich caviar extracts with power packed ingredients like Sea Silk and Pearl extract to unlock their anti-aging power via a state-of-the-art formulation process. Oh and it’s all ocean-friendly too: the brand chooses only sustainably and ethically sourced ingredients at their most optimal quality. The caviar at the heart of Alterna formulas comes from sustainably harvested Siberian sturgeon in the South of France, so you can rest easy that the eco system isn’t being threatened by their formulas. The opulent nutrition derived from these raw caviar beads delivers the anti-aging benefits that helps restore moisture, elasticity and shine to hair, and there are an amazing six Caviar Anti-Aging collections under the Alterna name:
• Replenishing Moisture
• Restructuring Bond Repair
• Smoothing Anti-Frizz
• Multiplying Volume
• Infinite Color-Hold
• Clinical Densifying
I’m looking forward to sampling their colour-treated hair line myself, and will most definitely report back here.
Alterna Caviar Anti-Aging is available to purchase right now online from sephora.nz, and at selected salons nationwide. Find your nearest Alterna salon visit www.alternacaviarantiaging.com.au
Monday, April 1, 2019
All about: Sunday Riley Auto Correct Brightening and Depuffing Eye Contour Cream
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Some beauty insiders call them an afterthought, but I believe that a skincare regime isn’t complete without a great eye cream. The skin around the eyes is the thinnest you’ll find on your body as well as having fewer oil glands than the rest of the face, so needs extra special care when and where it can get it.
Most good eye creams are formulated specifically for the skin around the eye, so tend to be a little richer and packed with active ingredients aimed at issues associated with that area. It is more fragile, more prone to dryness, and quicker to show age and fatigue. Squinting can hasten the appearance of lines and wrinkles, and fluids collect under the eyes and cause puffiness and dark circles. A good eye cream can address at least some of these issues, but first make sure you are applying it for optimal effect.
First, don’t over do it. A pea-sized amount should be enough, dotted on your brow bone and about a half inch underneath your eye. If you pack on the product, it won't make it more effective. It will, however, creep into your eyes and irritate them. Patting in with your ring finger is the best forms of application for this most fragile of areas, and allows your cream some time to sink in. This is most important in the morning so your foundation or concealer doesn’t cake up from the extra emollient base in the eye cream.
Which brings me to the newest formula that I’ve been lucky enough to have a play with: Sunday Riley’s Auto Correct Brightening and Depuffing Eye Contour Cream. What does it do? Well pretty much exactly as the somewhat lengthy name describes, and does it VERY well.
Riley herself has said: "I have four kids and never seem to get enough sleep. I keep a bottle of Autocorrect in the refrigerator, and massage it in around my eyes every morning while I'm waiting for my coffee to brew. The combination of the cold eye cream, the active ingredients, the light reflecting particles, and the quick massage make me look rested, even if I don't feel that way!" Sound like what you need? I know it sounded like what I did, and the high performance formula is a winner.
The super duper lightweight formula is quite the heavyweight when it comes to making real inroads into morning after eyes, instantly giving a brighter, lifted look, while reducing the appearance of dark circles and puffiness. Caffeine and Brazilian ginseng root extract are in the ingredient deck for a reason - they rapidly reduce the appearance of puffiness and dark circles, energising tired-looking eyes like a shot of espresso. Concentrated horse chestnut and acamella oleracea extracts smooth the appearance of crow's feet and fine lines while giving an instantly lifted look, whilst antioxidant-rich lutein provides a radiant glow to the fragile skin around the eye and protects the skin from aging free radicals as well as blue light pollution.
Cocoa and shea butter plump the skin effortlessly with moisture, as watermelon rind extract and sodium PCA infuse hydration into the skin. Thanks to the addition of light reflecting particles the results from a dose of this baby are immediate and noticeable, making this the perfect product if you’ve been burning the candle at both ends and just need a boost in the eye department that really shows.
Like all Sunday Riley products, Auto Correct Brightening and Depuffing Eye Contour Cream is cruelty-free and formulated without gluten and fragrance, and also comes free from Parabens, Sulfates and Phthalates so gets the clean beauty tick from me. To apply, use your ring finger to gently pat one pump of product around the eye contour morning and if you like, also at night. Oh and for a boosted soothing, de-puffing effect, try storing it in the refrigerator before use.
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Like all Sunday Riley products, Auto Correct Brightening and Depuffing Eye Contour Cream is cruelty-free and formulated without gluten and fragrance, and also comes free from Parabens, Sulfates and Phthalates so gets the clean beauty tick from me. To apply, use your ring finger to gently pat one pump of product around the eye contour morning and if you like, also at night. Oh and for a boosted soothing, de-puffing effect, try storing it in the refrigerator before use.
Thursday, March 28, 2019
Beauty news: Lancôme Absolue, reinvented
French beauty giant Lancôme has recently reinvented its most luxurious range, the much-loved Absolue, with impressive results.
At its heart are the precious Grand Rose Extracts: a concentrated blend of three rose extracts that act on all visible signs of ageing. Lancôme Rose, Centifolia Rose and Rosa Damascena all have their own specific targeted action on the skin, and the end result is high performance skincare that feels so luxe and beautiful to use that you won’t be able to stop.
The Grand Rose Extracts can be found in all of the formulas, including the brand new star cream known as Absolue Soft Cream, which comes with refillable packaging in keeping with the brand’s environmentally friendly approach. A soft cream facial moisturiser with everything your skin needs (and more), it has the most amazing formula in that it transforms several times during application. Its unique texture transforms from a thick hydrating cream to a thin serum-like lotion, and finally to a thick layer that seriously plumps the skin with moisture and leaves it feeling incredible. Lancôme calls this new transformative process Thick to Thin to Thick, but really, you have to experience it to really see it change before your eyes.
The Soft Cream visibly revitalises skin with moisture, firmness and plumpness, delivering a huge improvement in fine lines, twenty-four hour hydration, and brighter more radiant skin thanks to its work improving skin cell renewal. Delivering ultimate hydration, it also works to protect your moisture barrier, which is essential in autumn and winter in particular. With twelve nourishing oils in the formula it is a godsend for those with dry skin, and definitely not too rich for those on the oiler side due to its unique make up.
The rest of the collection is the same, but better, with more supercharged ingredients doing good – great! - things for your skin. With an RRP of $430 (a capsule refill for the jar is $365), the Absolue Soft Cream isn’t cheap, but with a wealth of technology behind it is a serious investment in your skin for years to come.
Wednesday, March 27, 2019
Love it: Guerlain’s new L’Essentiel foundation
Last week I was invited to the most stunning event at The Tasting Shed, which involved incredible food, delicious wine and one very important reveal. It was the official New Zealand launch of Guerlain’s new foundation formula, and all of the incredible attention to detail was well worth the effort!
Guerlain’s Lingerie de Peau foundation formula has been a fan favourite for a while now, but the brand new release is set to be that and more. A foundation made with 97 per cent naturally derived ingredients and delivering a natural glow finish that lasts for 16 hours, the aptly named L’Essentiel is just that – your new ‘must have’.
Effortless to apply and leaving your skin looking luminous and fresh thanks to a deliciously dewy (NOT shiny) glow, it is super comfortable to wear, has an SPF20 and is also buildable depending on your needs. A mix of skincare and makeup ingredients means that the formula actually lets the skin breathe – hydrating, balancing and protecting the skin from pollution. A duo of extracts derived from red algae and tara gums are what lets skin breathe and protects it from pollution, whilst white cocoa bean extract moisturises and protects from harsh blue light. Technology inspired by probiotics and prebiotics balances skin and reinforces its barrier, making it a great choice for when the temperature is in flux or for those with sensitivity. It also claims to make pores and pigmentation less noticeable after a month, which I’ll be able to get back to you on in a few weeks! It effectively aims to give skin a beauty boost, which can only be a good thing.
So how does it look on the skin? Well I like to think that skin should look as natural as possible without being overloaded, and a great foundation will let your natural beauty shine through. L’Essentiel has these qualities, with a silky smooth texture that is easily applied and a special brush available that allows the texture to really glide over skin, leaving an ultra-soft and delicate finish. A choice of 30 shades from launch is just brilliant too, and means that every woman will be able to find one to closely match her skin tone.
Last but by no means least – I have to mention that fabulous bottle, which definitely won’t stay hidden in your kit or bathroom drawer for long. It’s the work of world-renowned designer,
Mathieu Lehanneur. For Guerlain, he offered his “vision of duality” in the bottle, which symbolises the balance between two seemingly contradictory elements. Love it.
Guerlain’s new L’Essentiel foundation is on counter right now at Smith & Caughey’s, Ballantynes and David Jones department stores. The foundation has an RRP of $102, the retractable foundation brush, $91.
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Tuesday, March 26, 2019
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