covering all bases

Leaves are falling, opaques are being worn and Strictly has started. This can only mean one thing: autumn has landed. For months skin has had a happy-go-lucky attitude in terms of coverage. A splash of sun smattered onto the complexion has the habit of sprinkling cute freckles, along with a skin tone that looks healthy and radiant. Come the switching of the seasons and a little more is need. But as a tan fades and blemishes and patchy skin tone begin to surface, it’s a no-no to consider foundation as a fake tan. A shade that’s significantly darker than your skin tone won’t make you look sun-kissed, just grubby!

Instead look for smart new cover ups that appear invisible, feel weightless and do amazing things for your complexion. With choices expanding, making a perfect pick isn't always easy, so here are currently three of my best finds:

Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Mineral Makeup SPF15, £26

I love Bobbi Brown’s philosophy that skin should look like skin. Her make-up is super effortless whilst bringing out the best in covetable beauty – no mean feat. I was sent a little tester pot and it was perfect to use on a recent trip. And that’s what swung my beauty favour. Even though I had a light tan, the powder didn’t dampen it at all, giving me just a super fine dusting of shine free coverage. Simply buff and swirl on with a soft face brush. For a heavier coverage upgrade to a powder puff and press into the skin, then blend with a face brush. Honestly, if the powder was anymore weightless, it would float! Furthermore with an inclusion of sodium hyaluronate, it doubles up as a moisture magnet so skin doesn’t feel and look dry. Disaster for exaggerating any fine lines.

Available in eight skin tone correct shade.

Liz Earle Sheer Skin Tint, £21 (out September 15^th) http://www.lizearle.com/

Known for her high performing Naturally Active Skincare, it was only a matter of time – with much loyal based consumer nagging, that make-up would be introduced. And according to the brand, now partnered with Avon this is the natural bridge from skincare through to colour. The texture is dreamy and incredibly blendable. It literally does glide over the skin without pulling and squeaking (you know what I mean), giving a dewy coverage that enhances, not hides natural skin tone. With a mineral UV protection of SPF15 it really does cover all modern pressing skin concerns.

UNE Intuitive Touch BB-Cream Foundation, £14.99 (out October)

There’s been much fanfare about BB creams lately (standing for Blemish Balm) whose origins lie in Korea. They’re used as a post-laser treatment designed to allow an immediate return to work after a laser session. Taking multi-tasking to the max, they profess to camouflage small skin blemishes, unify, soothe and protect all in one single swoop. I have to confess that I tried Garnier’s BB Miracle Skin Perfector and wasn’t too keen. It was overly perfumed and the coverage wasn’t natural enough for me, leaving a non glow effect. But with UNE’s offering it only matifies where needed, thanks to fine spherical particles of rice powder. You can apply as a foundation, but I prefer to use it as a concealer using the little brush to cover up dark patches, redness and blemishes. I would comment the brush isn’t of superior quality, so would recommend the use of a  professional brush for better application. However, saying this I think BB for this skin creation could stand for Beauty Bonus.

psychic chic

Cocktails. Canapes. Celebrities. If there’s one thing that guarantees to get the beauty press to a launch (apart from the product of course) it’s not the former, but a reading. And not necessarily the low-down of their latest scientific study on banishing wrinkles. More likely a reading from a psychic promised on the embossed invite.

Katie Lancashire

Once psychics used to be associated with women that wore questionable sandals, now they’re more likely to be wearing Christian Louboutin. I’ve met Katie Lancashire, a Cambridgeshire based psychic a few times at swish beauty dos alongside interviewing her for magazines, which just goes to show how on-trend psychics have become. As far removed from the shawl draped, gypsy earring wearing crystal ball gazer as you can imagine, Katie is young, modern and gorgeous, representing the changing face (or should that be fate?) of psychics.

It could be said that psychics have become another luxury shopping experience –  appointments for them are now available in high end department stores, but although it may be classed as a bit of girlie fun, there’s a definite sense they have a mindful role to play in many lives. When your own world can sometimes seem off message, good psychics have the skills to help put a disrailed mind on the right track. And for the sceptics amongst you, psychologists have said there are huge parallels between a developed sense of wellbeing and having a good relationship whether it is with a therapist or a psychic.

“Personally, the demands for my insights have never been more sought after – I have a waiting list and my party bookings have gone through the roof,” says Katie. After all, we all want to know what the next big thing is, whether it's the newest lipstick shade or what’s in the future for ourselves.

Here I have a quick cosmic chat with Katie.

Dolly Mixture: When were you aware you had psychic powers?

Katie Lancashire: I realised I knew things when I was about 5 years old. I knew things about people and also saw spirits many times. I inherited my powers from my mother, but at school I used to get bullied for it. Kids’ used to taunt me that my mum was a witch. It’s funny how it’s now become cool to have these powers.

DM: I know many women who see psychics for emotional direction. Do you think this is healthy?

If we are ill we go to the doctor, if we have toothache, we go to the dentist, if we have emotional problems, lots of people turn to psychics by way of guidance and to understand what is happening to them at that current time. I’m often sought out by those who have lost direction in life and need answers along with restored confidence. They like to re-affirm their own feeling and thoughts. Essentially to get hope.

DM: What’s the most common question people ask you?

KL: You won’t tell me I’m going to die will you? Followed by, will I win the lottery? And I do get asked lots if their partners are faithful or not!

DM: Do you find it hard not to tell friends or family what their future is?

KL: It can be hard, and I will only tell them if they ask and want to know. Like with any reading, you have to want to know. If they ask, I will tell them.

DM: What are your ethics as a psychic? For instance, if someone wanted to book you every month would you say no?

KL: Absolutely! I only allow my customers to return every 4-6 months, any sooner and they won’t get enough out of their reading, and it’s a waste of money for them and a waste of time for me. Any psychic that allows someone to return month in, month out is exploiting that individuals weakness and vulnerability.

DM: What would be your own personal guidelines for finding a genuine psychic? How can you tell they’re the real deal?

KL: Of course, there will be some dishonourable ones in the mix, so just be wary of the ones that reveal you will have money problems in January and holidaying in August! But I would say go on word of mouth and recommendation, or else from good reviews in publications.  You can tell if they are real, as you will not have to say anything about yourself, whereby you can sit back and be told what is going on in your life. However, it is essential that you are open and receptive to the reader and prepared to hear what they say. Don’t go with a mission to test them.

DM: What is the most satisfying aspect of your job?

KL: Helping people realise that their life is not a waste of time and helping people when they are genuinely ‘lost’ in life. But I don’t have a magic wand. Some individuals think it is a great party piece, but I never let my talent be exploited for fun. People do benefit from readings and I receive many cards of thanks from people I have helped.

www.katielancashire.co.uk

Email: ktlancashire@hotmail.com

a clean sweep with decleor

On my bathroom shelf
Decleor Aroma Cleanse

There’s little doubt that five star cleansing is the single most important thing you can do for your pores. It gives skin the best possible foundation for luminous results, while an efficient cleanse also means that the expensive anti-ageing serum you’ve forked out on is given the optimal environment to work more effectively.

In the fast paced world of skincare, a new cleanser may not sound that groundbreaking, but believe me, the right one can make a huge difference in how your skin looks and feels. Decleor – one of my favourite brands, have just launched Aroma Cleanse Hydra-Radiance Smoothing & Cleansing Mousse, £25.50 and their research has been thorough. “When we first started thinking about creating a totally new cleanser, the two main things we learnt from our consumers was, that if they are going to cut corners with their skincare regime, it’s invariable at the cleansing stage,” explains Fiona Brackenbury their UK Head of Training. “This often means using wipes which tend to leave residue, or using a cleanser that’s too harsh for their complexion and aggravates.” With these factors in mind, Fiona reveals that we pretty much sabotage our skin’s chances of looking clear and healthy from the get-go.

Described as an innovative 3-in-1 cleanser Aroma Cleanse has been created as a direct response to customers skin concerns in the UK, and addresses the increasing trend towards sensitive and congested skin. It works by firstly giving a deep cleansing, but not stripping action with its mousse like texture. The inclusion of a weave cloth for mousse removal adds an exfoliating action and leaves skin ultra clean. Dead skin cells are further helped sloughed away with ingredients of grape juice, papaya extra and Japanese white mulberry. Lastly moisturising and plumping qualities are boasted with Neroli essential oil and hylauronic acid which holds up to 1,000 times its own weight in water.

With the health of your skin now in the palms of your hands, just make sure you apply cleanser with clean hands (it’s surprising how many people don’t wash their hands before applying product), tie your hair back as it encourages you to cleanse the sides of the face, up to your hairline and behind the ears – areas often neglected, and spend time massaging in cleanser. It’s what every skin expert will recommend.

oh the joy of ojon

As Rapunzel undoubtedly knows, the longer you grow your hair, the more maintenance it needs. Although mine isn’t long enough to fling out of a tower and support a dashing prince, it’s still way past shoulder length, and I’ve noticed the ends becoming ever more frazzled even with regular trims. The constant blow-drying, straightening and all round styling have made them feel and look dry, and therefore appear frizzy. I’ve tried various hair healers, but many of them although described as ‘nurturing’ and ‘enriching’ simply overload the hair. And where’s the joy in trying to style hair that acts like a pair of heavily embroidered curtains?

Ojon Damage Reverse Instant Restorative Hair Serum had my hair hooked from the first use. For starters it’s a lightweight serum that can be used daily without fear of overload. It didn’t even leave a greasy film on the palms of my hands. Applying two drops onto damp hair just before styling, it really does leave my hair feeling incredibly conditioned. Furthermore, the ends far from looking fragile look positively robust thanks to cuticles seemingly being temporarily sealed. Not one to overlook a good thing, I even use a modest amount as a finishing product for high shine. It smells gorgeous too – sweet Tonka Bean and Vetiver mingle together beautifully.

All of Ojon’s hair products are sourced with what is called nature’s golden elixir – oil from the native Ojon tree in the tropical rain forests of Central America. But after years of researching, they’ve discovered a new ingredient for injured hair called Rouge Oleifera extract. This is extracted from the fruit that surrounds each Ojon nut and boasts a high concentration of antioxidants – just the armour to protect hair from sun damage, heat styling and chemical exposure. Not available until September, make a note, as it will be just the hair rehab you’ll be looking for post sun, sea and swimming pool damage.

Ojon Damage Reverse Instant Restorative Hair Serum, £22 will be available at Harrods, John Lewis and Fenwick stores nationwide in September.

making eyes with revlon

Eyelashes tend to look their thickest and most luxurious between the ages of five and 15 – hence why mascara was invented! High tech formulas and perfectly engineered bristles can do so much for lashes, and one brush can totally change the look of the eye.

I’m always searching for the perfect mascara and there’s no shortage of competition. A new ‘wonder’ mascara tends to land on my desk most regularly. Some disappoint, others are average, while a handful impress. Revlon’s Grow Luscious Plumping Mascara is one of the latter. The blurb says it plumps lashes up to 200% - how that stat stacks up, I don’t know, my lashes were certainly volumised, but by that amount, it’s hard to tell. But, as with many thickening formula mascaras, they’re notorious for locking lashes together and drying them out as stiff as board. This formula is different. My lashes felt soft, conditioned and looked far from spidery. And you don’t need to coat it on for a great effect either. A flutter at £9.99.

Look out for the very sexy black and white ad starring poster girl Jessica Biel and Pharrell Williams airing next month. I just love the lyric ‘You got me girl. You look at me, you blink those eyes, you plump it up and hypnotise.” Feast your eyes….

turning routines into rituals

Founder: Raymond Cloosterman




The problem with being a consumer is the choice. Too much and you find shops just literally pass you by. This happened to me with Rituals. Seeing it nestling in shopping malls and high streets it wasn’t a brand that particularly caught my eye, and therefore I never bothered with it too much – sidelining it as just another shop that sold fancy soaps. However, it wasn’t until I was recently fully introduced to the brand that I began to open up to its mindful and clever philosophy. Founded in the Netherlands in 2000, but launched five years ago in the UK, it’s no new kid on the block, but if like me Rituals didn’t feature on your beauty radar here’s a quick run through.




 

cheek & eye glow

I love brands with personality, a passion and a story, and this one ticks the boxes. The concept for Rituals was created by one Raymond Cloosterman – a young fortysomething entrepreneur and business economist who found himself with a couple of months off between jobs. Instead of hitting the golf course, he put his insights and expertise (he previously worked for Unilever) to good use by globe hopping and exploring the latest trends in personal and domestic care products. This was when he had his light bulb moment. It made him recognise there was scope for a new brand that married both personal and homecare – two divisions that had never been allowed to mingle at Unilever. The notion that small daily cultural routines can be turned into meaningful rituals through the use of luxury products instantly turns chores or routines into something altogether more creative and enjoyable. So, in the world that is Rituals, even the washing up doesn’t end up as a must-do, but that of a scented experience with their Bamboo Treasure Washing Up Liquid!






Bamboo Treasure Washing up Liquid

Following a ‘slow shopping’ philosophy, this means that when you visit one of their shops, you will be offered a complimentary hand massage or a delicious cup of tea. This encourages you to kick back and take your time, you can then decide what Rituals – from Energising, through to Skincare and Gemstone make-up, you would like introduced into your life. For the consumer that’s been brought up on fast fashion, fast food and speed dating, in other words fast living, it’s turns the stressed out shopper from a hare into a tortoise. And we know the moral of that Aesop fable don’t we? ‘Slowly does it every time,’ said the winning tortoise.

http://www.rituals.com/









beautiful make-up made simple

Make-up maestro
Daniel Sandler

I’ve known make-up artist, Daniel Sandler for, ahem, many years and he’s always a pleasure to interview as he’s just so darn passionate about making women look and feel good through make-up. Visiting him at his concession in Urban Retreat, Harrods was a treat, and although Daniel is on make-up call for plenty of personalities including Davina McCall, Claudia Winkleman and Lisa Snowdon, it’s ‘real’ women he pitches his make-up brand to. However, saying that he cringes at the word real, as to him it says ordinary, rather than fabulous. I know what he means, but even so, it’s a brand for non celebrities that want to look amazing!

At the core of his brand, Daniel Sandler Cosmetics is his Timeless Beauty Collection, a foolproof capsule ‘wardrobe’ that is based on his best sellers in Harrods and on QVC. It cuts out big decision making – apart from colours of course, and gives you products that work quickly, are super easy to apply and long lasting. In essence, it simplifies the art of make-up.

“One product that many women have a lot of confusion over is foundation,” says Daniel. “The biggest mistake is over application and a misjudged shade. Too dark or too light and it will sit on the skin rather than enhance it.” Invisible Veil Foundation & Concealer, £28 is one of Daniel’s new stars. The dewy-fresh fluid foundation feels light on the skin and a flawless looking complexion is improved even further with a complementing shade of concealer nestling in the lid.

Another new edition to his range and right on the coat tails of the award winning success of Watercolour Fluid Blusher, comes Watercolour Crème Rouge, £15.50. Boasting skin perfecting polymer – “I always get my scientist to ‘up the polymer’ if I want sheen in a product,” explains Daniel - makes this dreamy cream-to-power formula ultra smooth to glide on and leaves skin innocently flushed. “I was inspired by women in the 1920’s and 1930’s whereby they had a sweet bloom on their cheeks which was very youthifying,” says Daniel.

Watercolour Creme Bronzer

And for those who want to tango with the tan there’s Watercolour Crème Bronzer, £15.50. “Blend a small amount onto cheekbones, bridge of nose and eye lids with fingertips and you’ll instantly glow,” says Daniel. But like foundation, good bronzer can go bad if applied unevenly or you opt for one that’s too shimmery. Aptly called Riviera, this gives a sophisticated jet set tan.



One thing that makes every woman look amazing is well mascara-ed lashes. Just as you would mingle two lipstick shades to create the perfect lip, so Daniel believes in working two mascaras to giving show stopping lashes. And it’s all in the brush. “A nice big brush gives sexy volume, whereas a thinner brush can be used to define the outer lashes and the bottom lashes,” reveals Daniel. Although not mad on gimmicky make-up – vibrating and twirling brushes aren’t his thing; he does believe that treatment mascaras are the future. “Imagine a mascara that not only gives great application, but repairs and strengthens too,” says Daniel. Perhaps he’s just given me the wink to his next big must-have. Watch this space!

For Daniel Sandler Colour Cosmetics stockists visit: http://www.danielsandler.com/