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NUXE HUILE PRODIGIEUSE DRY OIL Review

29 May 2021

Why do people love Nuxe oil so much? It’s simple; Huile Prodigieuse has gained its cult-favourite status because it’s one of the most multi-purpose moisturisers you’ll ever use.

I love everything about it!

What is Nuxe dry oil?

Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse multi-purpose oil is a face, body and hair oil that repairs, protects and hydrates, but without a greasy or sticky feel. With an at least 95.5% natural origin formula and ingredient line-up of vitamin E extracts and fatty acids, this oil is one big antioxidant. It’s one of the most luxurious ways to fight against free radicals like pollution and cigarette smoke. Not to mention, re-boot, and revive your skin after UV exposure.

Free from preservatives, mineral oils and silicones, Huile Prodigieuse nourishes inside and out, giving your face, hair and body the supermodel glow you’ve always dreamed of. Intrigued?

This NUXE oil is made from 7 natural oils of the highest quality, including a precious new botanical oil – Tsubaki Oil from the Camellia plant, a Japanese beauty secret. Tsubaki Oil is rich in Omega 9 and Phytosterols, which has anti-ageing properties and nourishes and heals the skin. Argan Oil is renowned for its restorative effects, while Hazelnut Oil and Borage Seed Oil soothe and smooth the skin. It also has 2 forms of Vitamin E, an anti-oxidant to help combat damaging free radicals and provide anti-pollution protection. As well as moisturising, softening and smoothing skin on face and body, this dry oil even helps to reduce the colour of stretch marks. It also softens and repairs hair, giving it a beautiful healthy shine. Suitable for all skin and hair types. Most importantly it is Paraben-free, Mineral Oil-free, Silicone-free.

The Original Dry Oil

What does the Nuxe dry oil smell like?

Huile Prodigieuse smells like summer. Notes of white flowers and vanilla give this oil a creamy floral aroma that feels warm and cosy.

How to use Nuxe dry oil?

For face: There are many ways to use the Huile Prodigieuse oil on the face. The most common way is to apply Huile Prodigieuse in place of your daily moisturiser. It’s the best beard oil! Other uses include mixing it with your foundation to create a dewy finish, or if you have oily skin, use this oil overnight to help rebalance sebum production.

For body: To get the most out of your Huile Prodigieuse Oil, apply all over damp skin. Although it’s a dry oil, wait a minute or two before getting dressed.

For hair: Huile Prodigieuse is incredible at repairing split ends, breakage and making your hair smell incredible. To use this oil to combat frizz, apply a small amount into your hands and work through your hair from the bottom upwards. You can also use this oil as a hot oil treatment too. Start by placing the glass bottle in warm water, wash your hair, then when damp, comb through the oil from lengths to ends and place your hair in a warm towel twist for 10 minutes and rinse.

The Shimmering Dry Oil

Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Or Multi-Purpose Golden Dry Oil

Shimmer body oils are having a moment, but, Nuxe was way ahead of the game with Huile Prodigieuse Or. This oil has a golden tint and a grown-up glitter finish that strikes the perfect balance between statement and chic; it’s an essential ‘occasion-wear’ face and body oil – I never go without it when going bare-legged.

Call this a liquid re-toucher, OR’s subtle tint lightly airbrushes the appearance of your body and limbs with mini shimmering mineral particles, but fear not, the finish is subtle; the more you layer, the more of a statement you can create.

What does the Nuxe shimmer dry oil smell like?

Huile Prodigieuse Or smells the same as the original dry oil. The only difference with this formula is its subtle shimmer and golden tint.

How to use Nuxe shimmer dry oil?

For face: Or is very versatile. Create a glowy day cream by mixing this in with your moisturiser, or squirt a few drops into your foundation to make more of a dewy finish – this works particularly well during summer. I also like dabbing any excess where I would apply my highlighter.

For body: The application method for OR is very similar to that of the original. Focus on using this oil on areas that you want to enhance, such as the centre of your legs, decolletage and arms. Make sure you wait a while before getting dressed to avoid its glittery contents transferring onto clothes.

For hair: This shimmering oil adds a mirror-like shine to hair while repairing any damaged areas over time. One for a night out rather than a pampering mask – brunettes will love it!

The Floral Dry Oil

Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Florale Multi-Purpose Dry Oil

The newest member of the pack is Huile Prodigieuse Florale, and it’s completely different to everything else in the Huxe Prodigieuse line-up. It comes in a pink botttle, but its musky-floral scent is the most significant change to take note of. Rest assured, it’s made from 96.9% natural origin ingredients, and the moisturising formula you know and love still feels same. The floral dry oil has a citruses smell from grapefruit as you first spray Florale, but as the oil blends into the skin, creamy florals start to prevail. Finally drying down with warm wafts of smooth white musk.

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Beauty Trends That Are Going To Be Huge In 2021

27 March 2021

Like most things, beauty has been in a weird place these past months. It the early days of the pandemic, our homes became our office, day care, and beauty salon. We will have another few months of mask wearing so it’s no surprise that eyeliner is going to become more popular. Also, expect to see more curtain bangs and fringes and retro nails. So, in the spirit of looking forward, I’ve rounded up five of the biggest beauty trends to get excited about for 2021.

SKINMALISM

Skinmalism is all about embracing your natural skin and super-minimal makeup. It makes sense, since many of us are wearing less makeup and spending more time on skin care than ever before. Social media searches for ‘natural makeup’ and ‘fresh skin’ are up on last year.

2 BANGSand Fringes

Fringes have also made a comeback and we’ll see more curtain bangs but with more texture and less length.

woman wearing white shirt — Photo by Mateo Almendares on Pexels.com

3 UNCOMPLICATED EMBELLISHMENTS

The simplified approach to everyday styling is going nowhere fast. Messy buns, ponytails have been the focus this year and we’ll see a continuation of the casual styles in 2021. For 2021, expect to see those laid back looks accentuated with accessories like crystal bobby pins and extra-large scrunchies. Clips of every kind are trending now, expect them to get more elaborate as the year goes on.

4 ‘80S EYESHADOW

We’re traveling back to the ‘80s for its bold, eye-catching colours. Think, royal blue, bright yellow and even rich black. This is the chance to try those the over-the-top colours in your palette that have always caught your eye.

alluring woman with bright makeup against ribbed wall — Photo by Rachel Claire on Pexels.com

5 Coloured Liner

Lots of coloured liner and unexpected takes on classic eyeliner will dominate 2021. If you want to ease into the trend, stick with a classic cat eye, but swap black for a bold colour.

My Top 10 High Street Foundations

18 March 2021

Times have changed; the technology of makeup and skincare has advanced rapidly for both the high-end and high-street market — so much so, that often two vastly different brands will use similar ingredients that work to the same effect. This has resulted in an array of foundations that work as well as their more expensive counterparts but cost half the price. So, whether you’re looking for some serious coverage, a radiant dewy complexion, or a way to help fight that midday shine, there’s a low-cost option for all. Thankfully, in 2020, you don’t need to spend big to win big when it comes to foundation.

Here’s my pick of my 10 favourite’s:

L’Oreal Paris True Match Foundation €14.99

L’Oreal’s number one selling foundation became an overnight cult classic for its blendable, buildable coverage and satin finish. An excellent option for those with drier skins, the formula won’t settle into creases or go patchy throughout the day; if you’re oiler you may need a setting powder to touch up as shine develops. The shade range caters to warm and cool tones with 28 shades available. This range contains both yellow and pink tones which is quite rare in budget foundations. The top three shades we go for in Ireland are Golden Beige (3W), Beige (W) and Rose Vanilla (2C).

Maybelline Fit Me Matte & Poreless Liquid Foundation, €8.99

Having oily skin can be a nightmare when it comes to a foundation that covers but doesn’t clog pores. Happily, this one is non-comedogenic, so won’t clog pores or cause breakouts, and its micro powders are designed to stop shine in its tracks. It’s light enough for all-over coverage but pigmented enough to cloak blemishes

Rimmel Match Perfection Foundation, €9.99

Rimmel’s Match Perfection has a silky, satin texture with a medium coverage leaves you with a dewy finish, and the shade ranges are superb.

The Ordinary Serum Foundation, €6.70

For those that want a lighter-coverage formula, this ticks all the boxes. The serum foundation is everything you could want from a low coverage foundation offering a natural, fresh finish that enhances the skin. Available in 21 shades, I’m especially impressed with the paler range of shades.

Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum Foundation, €14.99

French beauty brand Bourjois never fails to provide products that rival that of their high-end counterparts – and this Healthy Mix Foundation is of no exception. This vitamin-rich, fruit therapy formula glides onto skin and blends seamlessly for a truly flawless finish with long lasting results.

No7 Instant Radiance Foundation, €17.50

Concealing imperfections and smoothing the appearance skin without covering it completely, the light reflecting particles ensure your complexion will look luminous leaving you with a dewy finish. What I love about this one is how it enhances your own skin, rather than simply layering foundation. Winner for mature skins. The shade range is poor, but boots are due to release more shades soon.

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LA Girl Pro Coverage Foundation €12.95

If you struggle with extremely oily skin and foundation slides off within a few hours, this could be a purse-friendly foundation for you. The water-like consistency goes on smoothly but will dry to a matte finish – so if you have any flaky patches, ensure you moisturise! But if you’re on the hunt for a base that stays put and lasts all day with a matte, medium-full coverage.

Rimmel Wake Me Up Foundation €10.99

This foundation is perfect if your skin needs a serious pick-me-up, this Rimmel Wake Me Up foundation works absolute wonders – and regularly makes the cut above more expensive options. Created with a 100% pore less coverage formula and radiance boosting pearls, this is one of the best products I’ve tried for lifting and illuminating tired and sallow skin.

Max Factor Facefinity All Day Flawless 3in1 Liquid Foundation €17.99

This was my very first foundation to use and Max factor is making waves again. Overtaking all the others in terms of technicality and superior performance, this foundation works by priming the skin with a flexi-hold technology that creates a strong, yet lightweight film on top of the skin. Next, micro-correctors within the formula operate like little mechanics to defend against external influences such as sweat and sebum, while the added presence of SPF20 delivers a perfectly protective, matte finish. A multi-purpose product that acts as a primer, concealer and a foundation.

Catrice Even Catrice Skin Tone Beautifying Foundation €8.50

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I’ll just start this by saying that Catrice foundations are great value for money. I wear the HD foundation a lot and the quality is very good. This is this newest addition to the range which provides medium to full coverage without looking cakey. If you have oily or combination skin opt for, ‘All Matt Plus Shine Control Makeup’ (€6.95).

Common Beauty Mistakes You Might Be Making

17 March 2021

A lot of us are keen to learn everything about beauty and make-up, but the sheer volume of information can be intimidating and daunting for some of us. We’ve all had those nights where we sleep in our make-up or haven’t washed our make-up brushes in over a month! I have been guilty of some myself! While some of these are obvious no-no’s, there are some common mistakes you may not realise you’re doing.

1 Going To Sleep with Your Makeup On

This is fine every now and again but if done repeatedly it can cause damage to the skin, causing make up to settle in your pores, stretching them out resulting in rough, aged skin. Night time is when the skin renews itself so wearing make-up at night prevents the renewal process.

2 You’re Not Using Products to Suit Your Skin Type

Don’t settle for any old cleansing, toning and moisturising routine – addressing your specific skin type and concerns is a must, because using the wrong products for your skin can exacerbate the problems you already have. Think about what products you buy and be careful to choose your products carefully rather than sticking to that same cleanser that you have been using for years.

3 Not Cleaning Your Make-Up Brushes

Admittedly this is a time-consuming process that every make-up artist agrees is probably the least favourite part of their job. Dirty brushes are the ideal breeding ground for bacteria that can lead to acne and other infections. It can also affect make-up application, as the bristles become overloaded with pigment making precise application difficult. Washing your brushes once a week is recommended.

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4 Ditch the Applicators That Came With Your Eyeshadows

Most eyeshadows come with handy mini applicators, making it easy to apply on the go. But, for a blended finish, you really need to use a make-up brush. Sponge tips provide a lot of pigment at once while a brush allows you to gradually add product and blend as you go.

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5 You’re choosing the wrong shade of foundation

I always recommend testing foundation on your cheek, which will give you a more realistic idea of whether the foundation matches or not.

6 You’re using too much powder on the wrong places

I am a fan of powder to mattify the skin and set your look, but you don’t need to use it all over your face. It can end up making you look older. Try dusting just a little bit of translucent powder over your T-zone to reduce shine without making it too matted.

7 You’re not blending your foundation into your neckline

It seems like a rookie mistake, but it still happens a lot, and results in a mismatched face and neck. Make sure to blend your foundation into your jawline.

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8 Using A Bobby Pin Incorrectly

What? There is a wrong way? Yes, there is a proper way to use bobby pins. I only learnt this a few years ago!

The correct way to use a bobby pin is to insert it into your hair with the wavy side down. The wavy side is designed so it will grab your hair and situate it properly. The flat side, is what pushes the hair into the groove, holding it in place. So there, you have it, simple yet powerful.

9 Neglecting Your Neck
A lot of people forget about their neck when applying products to their face. Treat your neck, the same way you would treat your face. Go right down to the collar bones with your products.

10 Using Expired Makeup

Holding on to your favourite makeup can be a big no, no. Unfortunately, makeup and skincare does go off!

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My Complete A-Z of Beauty

17 March 2021

My A-Z guide of beauty, from ingredients and qualities, to products and brands.

A is for… Acne

1 in 20 adult women suffer from acne, and even more get the occasional spot or blemish outbreak. Clay, Charcoal and Oil based products are all great for tackling acne and spots. It is not caused by poor hygiene, contrary to many things you may hear. Outbreaks can be due to your lifestyle; diet, stress etc as much as your skincare regime, so whilst treating or responding to spots with

B is for… BB creams

BB creams are short for beauty balms or blemish balms. They were first developed in Germany by a dermatologist who wanted a single cream that would protect skin and provide coverage after laser treatments.

C is for… Collagen

Collagen. Is responsible for the skin’s plump and youthful appearance, and begins to deplete at the age of 25. Be vary of companies that claim that their products can plump collagen into the skin, as collagen molecules are generally too large to penetrate into the skin. We can feed the skin with nutrients that can trigger production. Treatments such as needling, radio frequency and ‘HIFU – High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound’.

D is for… Dark Circles

We’ve all had dark circles under our eyes, whether we are a bit run down, tired, or naturally have a darker ring under our eyes, it’s a common problem, but there are measures we should take to help. The 3 most important tools to have are; a good eye cream, sleep and a targeted dark circles product for those particularly bad days. The area around the eyes is very thin, a specific cream for your eyes should always be used, not a regular face moisturizer. TIP – use a concealer that is 1-2shades lighter than your foundation to brighten the under eye area.

E is for… Expiry Dates

The expiry date on a product is from the time that the product is opened. This is usually indicated on the back of the product, which will indicate how long the product is viable once opened. It can vary from 6-18 months from time of opening, depending on the product.

F is for…Facials

Facials can have numerous benefits from improvement in skin tone, texture and they are just pure bliss. So go on treat yourself!

G is for…Glycolic Acid

Derived from sugar cane may sound scary, but it can work miracles on the skin. It’s molecular make up is so small, that it works deep into the skin, treating lines and wrinkles, brightening skin and rejuvenates skin cells.

Ren’s Glycolatic Radiance Renewal Mask tackles lines, brightens skin and combats congestion.

H is For… Hyaluronic Acid

This naturally occurring molecule is right up there in the anti-ageing stakes – it works to lubricate the connective tissues in your skin, keeping pores plump and hydrated. Our own reserves reduce as we age so applying this ingredient topically is vital for preserving a youthful glow.

I is For… Inflammation

Symptoms of inflammation in the body can be numerous and vague – ranging from fatigue to headaches – and your skin is no exception. Triggered by poor nutrition, pollution, sunlight and stress, dermatologists agree inflammation is the real culprit behind pretty much every skin issue, including wrinkles. Gluten, dairy and processed foods as well as excessive sugar and alcohol are the biggest offenders.

J is for… Juices

An easy way to give your skin a daily boost, start every day with a fresh fruit or vegetable juice. Berries are packed with antioxidants, while citrus fruits are packed with vitamin C which slows down the skin’s ageing process.

K is for… Keratosis Pilaris

Keratosis Pilaris is a genetic skin disorder and affects 40% of adults (and up to 80% of adolescents). These painless tiny bumps usually on the upper arms, thighs and cheeks, can leave the affected area dry and rough. People often don’t recognise them as a skin condition, but just a case of bad skin. There are many products designed to reduce the appearance such as Creams containing alpha hydroxy acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid or urea help loosen and remove dead skin cells. They also moisturize and soften dry skin. Depending on their strength, these creams are available over-the-counter or with a prescription. Creams derived from vitamin A (topical retinoids) work by promoting cell turnover and preventing plugged hair follicles.

L is for… Lines.

We all hear the expression ‘fine lines and wrinkles’ almost daily. It’s everywhere. You have all heard it but, sun exposure is the biggest culprit in terms of skin ageing. In terms of prevention, SPF is your answer. Retinol will synthesise collagen and elastin and Ingredients like hyaluronic acid will plump up your skin.

M is for… Moisturisers

Moisturisers are one of the most important parts of your skincare routine. Replenishing moisturise and hydration into the skin is the key to healthy skin. Think of all the elements and things you expose your skin to that takes its natural moisture; weather, foods, face washes, make up. Look for ingredients that contain humectants and emollients.

N is for… Natural

Up to 60% of what we put on our skin ends up being absorbed in the body and when the products we use are made from harmful artificial ingredients these place an unnecessary burden on the body’s detoxification processes and on the entire immune system, including the skin. We have lots of home grown natural beauty brands making waves at home and abroad which include Voya, Seavite and newcomer Ripe by Roz. Kinvara’s Absolute Cleansing Oil, another natural product that has won over beauty editors (and acne sufferers too).

O is for… Oils

Often feared by many particularly those with oily skin. Face oils return moisture and elasticity to your skin, smoothing wrinkles and soothing irritation in the process. The right face oil can help clear pores of excess sebum, and can reduce inflammation and irritation, as inflammation itself is actually one of the primary causes of acne.

P is for…Parabens

Parabens are the most widely used preservatives in personal care products. Parabens stop fungus, bacteria and other microbes from growing in your favourite creams.

Q & U – Lets just skip those for a while 🙂

R is for… Rosacea

Rosacea is a skin condition that typically affects the face, usually around the nose and cheeks. It results in redness, pimples, swelling, and small and superficial dilated blood vessels. It usually occurs in people over 30 and is often referred to as acne rosacea. Laser can be successful in treating this condition.

S is for… SPF

Sun Protection Factor. The number that follows is a measure of the time it will take for your skin to burn with the sunscreen applied, in comparison to unprotected skin. . Example: If your unprotected skin would burn in 10 minutes, an SPF30 product (correctly applied) would give her 30 x 10 minutes in the sun before burning.

T Is for… T-Zone

If you have oily or combination skin, chances are good you struggle with the area on your face known as your t-zone. If you’re unfamiliar with what exactly your t-zone is, imagine drawing a “T” on your face. Your t-zone consists of your forehead, nose, and chin. An oily t-zone requires a little bit of extra care and protection. Even so, it won’t go without saying that t-zone area may also get dehydrated.

U is for… Ultra-violet Rays

The sunlight that reaches are skin is made up of two types of rays, UVA and UVB. UVA causes premature ageing to the skin and

UVB rays that cause the skin to tan and burn. Protect your skin with a SPF of at least 30.

V is for… Volume

We spend thousands of euro’s on beauty products throughout our lifetime. But how much of that is wasted? For moisturizers and night creams, aim for the volume and length of one almond. When it comes to eye cream, less is best, a sunflower seeds worth for each eye is sufficient.

W is for… Water

Making up almost two thirds of our body, water plays a vital role in everything from regulating body temperature to keeping our skin healthy. And when it comes to skin health, drinking at least two litres is essential for a youthful complexion. Keep your face hydrated throughout the day, especially if you work in an airconditioned office or flying with a plumping face mist. I love Uriage Thermal water mist €7.98.

X, Y and Zzzz…

Make an effort to get your beauty sleep – when we sleep, our skin goes into rest mode, repairing damage caused by the sun’s rays and harmful pollution. Adequate sleep will restore luminosity to the skin while improving tone and texture – there’s a reason beauty experts call it the best-kept anti-ageing secret.

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How to Layer Your Skin Care Products: A Step-by-Step Guide

10 March 2021

Photo by simmons.kevin4208

The order of application of skincare products is very important. If you don’t apply products in the correct order, you will not see the best results from your skin care routine. So which product goes on top of what? An easy rule of thumb to follow is to apply your products with the thinnest consistency to thickest, since thinner products can’t penetrate thicker products.

STEP 1: CLEANSER

For products to penetrate you need clean skin. Skip the makeup wipes and opt for a cleansing oil, which dissolves all makeup without stripping your skin. Then follow up with a gentle, creamy cleanser.

STEP 2: TONER

A lot of people choose to skip toners, partly because in the past most toners contained harsh ingredients like alcohol that can irritate the skin. Fortunately, that’s not the case anymore. The new breed of toners can serve multiple purposes, like act as a delivery system for antioxidants, vitamin B derivatives and even toning acids. Additionally, each type of toner is intended for a different skin issue, so it’s important to use the right kind for your skin concern. If you have very oily skin, look for a toner filled with either BHA (beta hydroxy acid, like salicylic acid) or AHA (alpha hydroxy acid, like glycolic acid or lactic acid), which work to unclog pores, prevent breakouts, and dissolve blackheads over time.

STEP 3: SERUM

A great ingredient to look out for is Vitamin C which is frequently found in serums. It is like an energy drink for your skin, protecting your skin from the inflammation and damage caused by free radicals during the day while also brightening skin and lightening dark spots over time.

Another great ingredient is hyaluronic acid which attracts water to the skin. Great for all skins.

STEP 4: EYE CREAM

Use an eye cream at least once a day starting in your 20’s. Increase it to am and pm in your late 20’. Eye creams tend to be lighter and thinner than face moisturizers, so make sure to apply them before your creams and oils.

Regular use of eye cream over time will keep the eyelid skin elastic and can improve or prevent against some fine lines or collagen loss. Nothing is magic. Results don’t occur overnight.

STEP 5: MOISTURIZER

Everyone needs a moisturizer, even if you have oily skin because it’s the only thing that’ll keep your skin barrier. It also infuses your skin with hydration but also helps trap in all the products underneath. Some people use the same moisturizer for day and night. However, night creams are generally thicker and heavier and designed to be absorbed over the course of several hours.

No7 Lift & Luminate Triple Action Day Cream SPF 30

Step 6: Face Oil

Face oils are occlusive, meaning they seal in all the ingredients and moisture you just applied to your face to keep them from evaporating as quickly. When you layer oils over products, they help increase your routine’s efficacy while also leaving skin soft and smooth. Just make sure to always, always, apply them last. No product can penetrate an oil, always applied last.

Step 7: Sunscreen

Ok, sunscreen is the absolute last step. Oils are still working to penetrate and treat your skin, which is why they would go last in your skincare routine, but sunscreen isn’t trying to penetrate anything—it’s there to protect your skin.

Unfortunately an SPF 15 in your foundation or moisturizer isn’t good enough, the absolute bare minimum SPF you need on your face is SPF 30. You will thank me for it in a few years’ time!

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Lucy Zender tells us how to achieve a flawless brow

28 February 2021

woman in red lipstick hiding behind green leaves

Lucy Zender is the creator and founder of Tweezerfile, an award-winning and innovative new beauty product that allows you to sharpen your old blunt tweezers and bring them back to life. Hold your tweezers with the blades together, then slide the tweezer up and down the Tweezerfile, gently applying equal pressure on the top and bottom blade. After a few strokes, your tweezers will be back to their old glory, gripping even the shortest hair!

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I caught up with Lucy Zender, creator and founder of Tweezerfile and she has given us the following tips and tricks to achieving a flawless brow.

Eyebrows out of control, following lockdowns and restrictions or do you just want to keep them as neat as possible until you can next get to an appointment? Or perhaps you have been taking a more do-it-at-home attitude to your beaty regimes over recent months.

Whatever your motivation, if you’re planning to do a DIY eyebrow tidy, you want to do it right. Here are my 6 top tips for getting flawless eyebrows in the comfort of your own home.

Get prepared:

Pluck your eyebrows after a bath or shower, so your pores are open and your skin softer. If you don’t have time, hold a warm, damp flannel to your brows for a couple of minutes to achieve a similar effect. Make sure you’re relaxed and have everything you need to hand. Most importantly, ensure your mirror is completely clean and fit for the job and that you have good light – but avoid magnifying mirrors and very bright lighting as that can lead to over-plucking.

Determine your eyebrow shape

In order to pluck your natural line, you need to determine the three vital points of your brows. Then you can pluck around these markers. These points are:

Start – With your eyebrow pencil, hold it vertically against your ‘nasal wing’ (the fattest part of your nostril). Mark with your other pencil where it meets your eyebrow.
Arch – this is the highest part of your eyebrow and can be determined by holding your pencil against your nasal wing again but this time at an angle so that it runs past the outer part of your pupil. Where this meets the eyebrow is your arch point. Again, this should be marked.
End – With the pencil still on your nasal wing, turn it so it runs past the outward corner of your eye. Where it touches the brow, mark the end of your eyebrow.

Careful plucking

Work from the inside, over to the outside then underneath i.e. first pluck the hairs between your eyebrows, then pluck the hairs above your arch, to properly define it. Next, take out any hairs that are on the outside of your end mark. When you have done this, pluck under your brow. This is where you can determine how thick or thin your brows are. Be really careful to keep the plucking underneath consistent in both eyebrows!

In fact, make sure you don’t do one eyebrow and then the other. Instead do a few hairs on one eyebrow and then even it up on the other side. Stop regularly and check that they are coming out even.

To make your plucking most efficient, stretch your skin tight and pluck from as close to the root as you can get. This makes it far less likely that you will break a hair and leave it too short to grab with your tweezers. Also, pull the hair in the direction it grows, to make it easier to pluck.

Trim stragglers:

Once you have your shape, you may want to just tidy up long hairs that have a nasty habit of pointing out at odd angles. Take your brow brush and brush your hairs up, then very carefully use your eyebrow scissors to trim them to the right length.

Add finishing touches:

It’s likely the skin around your eyebrows will be inflamed and sore once you have finished, so have a soothing cream to hand.

Once they have calmed down you can go the extra mile with a couple of finishing touches.

If you still have errant hairs, use a specially-designed transparent gel to smooth them into place and keep them there.
If you did over-pluck or have small gaps in your eyebrow, use your eyebrow pencil to gently draw some tiny lines to replace the errant hairs.

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Look after your tweezers:

After a few times plucking your own brows, you’ll probably have got the hang of looking after them. However, don’t forget also to look after the tools of your trade, namely your tweezers.

Many people simply throw their tweezers back in their makeup bag when they have finished with them. The trouble with this is that they are more likely to get the tips blunted and blunt tweezers are not effective. Blunt tweezers tend to bend and break hairs or simply not work at all.

So, when you have finished perfecting your brows, wipe your tweezers clean and store them either in a special storage pouch or point-up in a pot or other receptacle. If your Tweezers came with those little plastic covers on the tips, keep hold of them and replace them after each use to protect them from dust, etc.

However well you look after them, they will blunt eventually and what do you do then? Well, most people simply throw them away and get a new pair. Alternatively, look for a Tweezer file designed specifically for tweezers that is easy-to-use and will ensure your tweezers are always in tip top condition and will last and last!

I hope you’ve found these tips useful and that you can enjoy nice trim brows, whether this is a change for good or just until your favourite beautician is able safely reopen their doors! However good your DIY job, I suspect you may be glad to let them work their magic again when the time comes!

Tweeerfile is available in two beautiful colours, coral and petrol blue. Available via Tweezerfile.com and from Amazon.

Web: https://www.tweezerfile.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tweezerfile/

Beauty Hack Featured Posts Skin

9 things you can do to have amazing skin

10 February 2021

HYDRATE: It really is important. Not drinking enough water is like running your car without fuel. Our skin is our largest organ, but we don’t usually think about it like that. Kidneys don’t work well without water so why would our skin? If you’re not sure how much water to be drinking every day, here is a super simple formula for you:

Body weight divided by 2 = The number of ounces to drink daily. So, if you are 140lbs, divide that in half=70, so 70 ounces of water daily.

CLEANSE: It really can’t be said enough! Clean skin is healthy skin. The thing is though, that we have to be careful not to get over cleanse the skin and end up stripping the natural oils from our skin and doing more harm than good. Also, use a product that is suitable for your skin type.

EAT A WELL-BALANCED, DIET: A good balanced diet will help keep skin clearer, as the skin will have supply of all the essential vitamin, minerals, proteins and other things needed to keep it in the best health.

CARE FOR AND REPLACE HYGIENE AND BEAUTY ITEMS REGULARLY: You should clean your makeup brushes and sponges every week due to the build-up of dead skin cells and debris and dirt. Additionally, there is a shelf life on makeup. Don’t use that mascara that you have had for 2 years and risk getting an eye infection! Just the same with washcloths (replace daily).

GET A FULL 8 HOURS OF SLEEP

MANAGE STRESS Uncontrolled stress can make your skin more sensitive and trigger acne breakouts and other skin problems.

EXFOLIATE and MOISTURIZE: Exfoliating once a week helps to remove dead skin cells leaving your skin with fresher, looking skin. Follow with a moisturizer for your skin type after cleansing your face.

PROTECT YOUR SKIN: Protecting your skin from the elements, especially the extreme heat, sun and cold, will go a long way in keeping it healthy. Use a SPF of 30 or more when in the sun, remembering to reapply every 2 hours.

EXERCISE: Regular exercise, can help to relieve stress, aids sleep which all contribute to good skin health. A brisk 30-minute daily walk is ideal.

Beauty Hack Featured Posts Makeup Skin

Maskne is real, here’s how to deal with it

3 February 2021

What exactly is maskne (Mask induced acne)

The maskne struggle is real. As face masks are mandatory indoors, the prolonged and consistent use can contribute to a number of skin issues like irritation, blemishes and congested skin. Maskne is the result of constant friction of the mask on the skin, which causes it to become irritated, clog pores, lose water and allows bacteria in. The trapped air beneath the mask, creates a warm, moist environment which is ideal breathing ground for bacteria. Maskne is technically referred to as acne mechanica.

Prior to the pandemic, this form of facial irritation was primarily experienced by athletes, commonly due to the sweat, heat, and friction in their helmets and straps. We are seeing it more now with people wearing masks for an extended period of time.

How can you prevent and treat maskne?

Prevention is always best. If you are wearing a cloth mask, wash it daily and change it frequently throughout the day. If you are wearing a disposable mask, try to replace it as often as possible. The KN95 medical masks can irritate pressure points very easily so add silicone strips under the pressure areas.

Treating Maskne

Skincare

If you start developing maskne, be gentle. Overdoing skincare can compromise your skin’s protective barrier. Instead, wash your face with a gentle cleanser like Neutrogena oil free face wash and avoid products that are too drying because they will cause the skin barrier to become more compromised. Another good cleanser is the Cerave SA cleanser as it contains salicylic acid which is a great ingredient for oily skin.

For hydration after washing, look for a products with hyaluronic acid and emollients like Cetaphil daily hydrating lotion, really good for dry eczema prone skin.

Treatment options for acne break outs over the counter products that help resolve the clogged pores are beneficial recommends products like Differan Acne gel or LA Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel.

Image result for LA Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel.

Avoid anything with SLS or sodium lauryl sulfate, which is a harsh sulfate that really strips the skin of its natural oils and impairs the barrier. Try to avoid any face scrubs, anything that feels like sand or grit as they damage the skin’s barrier. You can’t use powerful products like alpha hydroxy acids, chemical peels or Retin A to blast the acne because they will further damage the fragile skin barrier, making it more sensitive to the mask’s irritating effects. Don’t use heavy ingredients, like cocoa butter or coconut oil, and skip any kind of oil-based foundation

Wash that mask

Re wearing a mask shouldn’t be an option, but if you do it is an ideal cause of breakouts.

If you exercise or sweat during the day with a mask on, then you want to change that mask and put on a fresh, clean mask right away. Ensure your mask fits you correctly to give you protection, not too loose that it rubs or moves and not too tight that it constricts you.

Celebrity Featured Posts Hair

My chat with celebrity hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons

18 June 2020

Hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons Launches Products at Primark ...

Kardashian-Jenner hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons, has teamed up with Irish retailer Primark on a new collection of hair care products. The line comprises shampoos, conditioners and masks designed for different hair types, as well as sprays, dry shampoo and hair oil. The range also includes a trio of styling products and a collection of hair accessories including clips, scrunchies and hair brushes. Andrew is from Ballinteer, Dublin and has made Los Angeles his home, I caught up with him to talk all things hair!

Sara: How did the collaboration with Primark come about?

Andrew: Working with Primark has been a dream come true. As an Irish native, I grew up shopping at Penneys – so did everyone I know – so to have a collaboration with them is really really special. We’ve been working on this collection together for the better part of a year, so I’m so excited that the products are finally available. I worked closely with the Penneys/Primark team to develop a haircare collection of really high quality, accessibly-priced products. We developed and tested several rounds of formulas to ensure we developed the best possible options.

Sara: What can we expect from the range?

Andrew: The very first thing that we all notice is the health of the hair and this is why I have introduced in this range 3 hair type categories in my haircare collection which I am so proud of, to deal with the problems for all the hair complaints I hear from people ever day all over the world. My shine collection will help give you that glossy red-carpet shine. The volume will help anyone with flat lifeless hair to achieve the most beautiful volumes hair. The repair collection with manuka honey will restore your hair to its original beautiful condition.

Sara: Which is your favourite product in the range?

Andrew: This is like picking a favourite child – why would you make me do that?! 😉 If I *had* to pick one… probably the Primark X Andrew Fitzsimons Hair Oil. It’s a luxurious oil that moisturizes the hair and provides brilliant shine without adding any weight.

Sara: Tell us, about your career to date?

Andrew: When I was 13 years old I asked my mother to get me a summer job. I always wanted to have freedom and my own money, so my mum arranged a job at a local hair salon. I’d never really been interested in hair but I’d always watched my mum getting ready, like a lot of gay kids do, and I loved creativity so we thought it would be a good fit. Then at 16 I thought it’s time for me to get an agent, obviously!

I started working with celebrities when I moved to New York at age 21 after previously living in Paris for a few years. The first celebrity I worked with I think was Adele, who was coming to the US to promote her album. It was great to connect with another person from Europe and she and I got on really well. I got offered work in LA so I was back and forth and then decided to move there. The rest is history!

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Sara: What is the best piece of advice that you can give us about looking after our hair?

Andrew: All hair is very delicate so it’s always best to be gentle with your hair as a rule and to make sure that you have the right haircare regiment using the right products. Using some of our luxe oil after washing your hair will also give you that luxurious healthy hair that we all look to achieve. I don’t usually recommend washing your hair every day unless you really need to. If your hair is looking greasy or even just your fringe, use my fresh dry shampoo which is invisible with a fresh fragrance. Your hair will look fresh and clean.

Sara: Do you believe that dreams do come true?

Andrew: Yes, but with a lot of hard work and determination. For a long time, I didn’t really know why I was so driven. I’ve always just needed to move to different countries and move the goal posts when it came to my career, but I always trusted my decisions. It’s been a long journey, but I think a lot of it has to do with my mother teaching me self-belief and me saying “I’m going to do this no matter what.”

All Andrew’s products are available at Penney’s nationwide.

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