The Four Month Hair Colour

ruth crilly model

It has suddenly occurred to me that I haven’t had my hair colour done in nearly four months. Four months! I have hardly any noticeable regrowth and the colour on the lengths of my hair still looks as nice and rich as it did on the day it was tinted. (Actually, I lie: I think it might look better than it did on the day it was tinted! It was a little too warm and too dark, first of all, which is often the way. The tint fades and you’re left with the proper shade.) This just confirms for me, in my head (and now out loud), that my colourist, the lovely John Spanton, is in fact something of a hair colouring genius.

It has made me think that perhaps this dark, honeyed blonde is a shade that I will stick with for many years. I can highly recommend it if you’re growing bored of the “classic” blonde and the frequent trips to the hair salon required for maintenance, but note; dark blonde is not by any means maintenance free. The colour I now have is an amalgamation of many, many different blonding sessions and not just a tarted-up version of my natural shade – it’s unfortunate that my natural shade as I’ve grown older is actually a weird, ashy brown-mouse-blonde and not anything particularly desirable. Though around 50% of my hair (nearly all of the underneath layer, in fact) has been kept natural – John purposefully left it untreated so that the condition of my hair wasn’t too affected over the years. Clever chap.

Anyway, this was just a bit of a “thinking aloud” post – I’m in full-on Bank Holiday mode and writing a proper feature was quite frankly beyond me. Especially after the large G&T at sundown! It was supposed to be a list of the pros and cons of sticking to your natural hair colour, but then I realised that it wasn’t really my natural hair colour and then I got into one of those mental confusions that make you want to bang your forehead repeatedly on the desk in front of you.

John Spanton is at Trevor Sorbie in Covent Garden – more info here.

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Aroma Actives: Supermarket Skincare, Luxury Heritage

skincare at sainsbury's

Excellent news for people looking for well-formulated skincare at reasonable prices: Geraldine Howard, founder of luxe brand Aromatherapy Associates, has created a special range for Sainsbury’s. This isn’t breaking news, I’m afraid – I think that the range might have launched about a year ago – but it is, as I said, good news. Aromatherapy Associates is one of my favourite home-grown brands; well-sourced ingredients, cleverly-blended oils, packaging that’s understated and incredibly chic. Aroma Actives, available at Sainsbury’s, benefits from all of the knowledge and passion that makes Aromatherapy Associates so successful, but it’s simpler, more streamlined and – importantly – cheaper.

I’ve been taking a look at the various products available in the range (info online here) and have earmarked a few products that I want to try out this month. Annoyingly, I was only in Sainsbury’s at the weekend, but I completely forgot to have a look! I was too busy buying BBQ stuff to feed fifteen. The Skin Fresh Tonic, though, I already have. I’ve been using it for a couple of weeks now, about the same amount of time that the weather has been hot and muggy. The tonic is very cooling and soothing with cucumber and aloe vera, and the formula is alcohol-free. It’s not hi-tech scientific and it’s not the kind of product that’s going to single handedly transform your skin overnight, but as a post-cleanse swipe-over it’s lovely. I’d quite like it to be in a spray bottle so that I could spritz away with it all day, but you can’t have everything.

It’s a brilliant tonic for skin that’s had a bit too much sun, so a handy one to keep at home with the suntan lotions and outdoorsy stuff. (Next to my back door I have a little pile of “garden essentials”; sun hat, sun cream, this spritz, a picnic blanket, some sunglasses and a novel. I quite like to grab an impromptu half an hour in the sun at lunch time, if I can get away from the computer!)

I can’t find the Skin Fresh Tonic online, but MySupermarket says that it would be £7.50 if Sainsbury’s had it in stock. I’ll let you know how I get on with other products – has anyone tried the range? I’d be interested to hear your thoughts. I’m particularly tempted by the cleansing balm and the serums…

aromaactives.com

If you’d like to read some Aromatherapy Associates posts then please click here.

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Thoughts on the Foreo Luna Mini.

I was recently asked if I still use my Foreo Luna, and the answer is yes!

When blogging I write out lists of blog posts I plan to write and then cross them off as I go, starting a new list whenever it gets messy with crossing out (because I can never make it to the end of a list without wanting to plan a fresh new one) and “Foreo Luna Review” had been shuffled onto the next list, and then the next list, and then the next list for what feels like months now, so, I’m truly sorry! Today is the DAY.

I honestly have no clue how long I’ve had the Luna now, many, many months. I could probably do a quick search on the blog for when I originally mentioned it but the sun is shining so brightly I can’t see my screen and I’m typing without looking at it because I’m totally in. the. zone. You know, I haven’t even had to charge the Luna yet, granted I haven’t used it every day in the past 2-3 months but that’s still amazing and a huge selling point if you ask me, this thing lasts and lasts (I think it’s about 300 uses before needing to be charged!).

Never heard of a Foreo Luna and wondering what that strange alien blue thing is up there?
The Foreo Luna is a sonic cleansing device, using over 1300 soft silicone touch points to cleanse skin. The device runs for one minute (it doesn’t actually stop after the minute but pauses for a second to let you know you can stop now) and up to 8000 sonic pulses are channeled through the silicone to dislodge dirt, skin cells, oil and makeup. It sounds like a gimmick but withing 48 hours you’ll probably have the same reaction as I did when looking in the mirror that goes something like this: *gasp* “my skin is looking so smooth! *touches it* “so soft!” after a week, of once or twice daily use, things start to get really good, and it’s only up from there really. I honestly had no idea what to expect when using this but it’s genius. Skincare absorbs and works more effectively and makeup applies better than before.

Unlike cleansing brushes with bristles, the foreo luna is as gentle as can be, you literally can’t overdo it with this and it feels like a mini massage each time. The luna can be used with any cleanser but my favourite was the Josh Rosebrook Moisturizing Cleanser because it’s silky and has great slip for moving the device around, but doesn’t foam or emulsify with water. This also works well with cleansing oils to really get in there and remove leftover makeup, cleansing gels, balms or creams. It makes any cleanser (except those with clay or scrubby bits) work that much harder to truly cleanse skin without leaving it red raw like a brush. You can also use this to help your skincare absorb! If you forgot to use it when cleansing you can turn it on to the slower setting and run over skin after applying your serums, oils and moisturisers to help absorb in a way that the push and press technique never could.

To keep clean simply wash with soap and water after use, the silicone is antibacterial too and very sturdy, mine still looks brand new. The device is also completely waterproof which means you can store it in the shower like I do without batting an eye. The small size is also great for travel and it’s super light too.

I remember when I first started using the device I found the curved shape to be strange and how you had to work to manoeuvre the device around in different ways to get each nook and cranny, but with time that becomes second nature and you don’t think about it all. Suitable for all skin stypes the Luna helps with breakouts, blackheads, dry skin, uneven skin tone and more. I read that a few people experience ‘purging’ at first when using this, but I never did so can’t comment on that.

There’s now a Luna 2, which has longer silicone bristles and a few different settings, but I think that’s just a bit of marketing to get more sales, stick with the original… it’s cheaper after all!

The Foreo Luna Mini comes in a bunch of different colours, I really like this tiffany style turquoise-blue, and the grey is very sleek,. You can also save 15% at the moment from Look Fantastic with the code ‘europe’ and their delivery is free worldwide!

See all original Luna’s here.

Got any other questions about the Luna Mini? Ask in the comments & I’ll get back to you asap 🙂

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Sensitive Skin Care: The Simplest of Face Oils

basic face oils

Those searching for beautifully simple facial oils, look no further; the below are just about as unadorned as facial oils get. If you find that you’re sensitive to essential oils, or just prefer a more purist approach to your skincare regime, then the three I’ve picked out are a great place to start. Two of them (the Argan and the Rosehip) have nothing in them apart from what’s in the title – the third, Weleda’s Almond Soothing Facial Oil has a tiny touch of blackthorn and plum oil but it’s still incredibly simple. If you’re looking for sensitive skin care and want a “starter” oil to see how you get on, then take a look at these…

Just Argan Oil: Neal’s Yard Remedies Organic Argan Oil. I know I bang on about this one, but it does wonders for my skin. It’s an overnight wonder – brings dry skin back to life and is packed full of Vitamin E to protect and repair the skin. Also, I’ve been to the place in Morocco where it’s made and so I have a soft spot for it – it’s extremely ethically sourced. You can read my whole blog post on it here, or find it online here. It’s £17.50.

Just Almond: Weleda’s Almond Soothing Facial Oil. I say “Just Almond” but, see above. It’s a nice basic moisturiser – won’t work wonders like good old Argan, but I quite like to use this oil for cleansing eye makeup off (don’t get it in your eyes unless you want blurry vision for about eighteen years) and as a bit of a “pre-cleanse” if I’m travelling and don’t have a proper balm cleanser to hand. It’s around £15 (you can get a simple SIMPLE version in your chemist’s, probably, for much cheaper) but you can sometimes find it on Amazon for about a tenner. There’s some at the moment here.

More facial oils…

Just Rosehip: Pai’s Rosehip BioRegenerate Oil. This is the one to go for if you need some repair work to happen. Rosehip has long been known for its regenerative properties and this version claims to be the most concentrated version on the market today. It’s a potent but non-irritating form of Vitamin A and brilliant for helping to heal scars, stretch marks and sun damage. It also helps with fine lines, skin firmness and general suppleness and elasticity. An all-round powerhouse and a great (and surprising) price: £22 online here.

More skin care for sensitive skin…

The post Sensitive Skin Care: The Simplest of Face Oils appeared first on A Model Recommends.

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Putting Dove’s Super Moisturising New Anti-Perspirant Formula To The Test: The Results Of My Underarm Challenge

SPONSORED FEATURE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH DOVE

How many of you stick to the same time old tried and tested products and formulations, believing it’s better the devil you know than the beauty stuff you don’t? Once we discover something we can supposedly rely on, it’s tricky to get into the mindset of regularly changing it up or trying something new – even if we know the grass may be greener on the other side. I’ve spoken previously about the new anti-perspirant formulas from Dove that have been re-formulated to be their most skin friendly ever; they’ve re-balanced the formulations to provide even more moisturisation for this often sensitive part of your body, and the range now features ingredients that are more commonly found within luxury skin care products. All this on top of Dove’s signature 1/4 moisturising cream that its deodorants are so well known for. This reformulation allows the range to lubricate the skin and ensure it’s working effectively, alongside aiding the repair of damaged skin after hair removal. These hardworking features ensure that the Dove anti-perspirants are superior to many other household names I’ve tried, providing a comfortable and effective experience. But how many of you regularly change up your deodorant or seek out something that offers more than just basic protection?

I’ve been a fan of the Dove deodorants for years, because I know their products provide me with an incomparable experience and hardworking care. Their constant innovation and portfolio of scents to choose from keeps it fresh, while ensuring I’m always getting the best from my underarms. However, I know many others stick with their standard antiperspirant and don’t even think to seek out anything new – often for decades on end. In the interests of encouraging my loved ones to shake things up and introduce them to what Dove has to offer, I set six of them a challenge to try out the newly revamped range for a week and let me know their thoughts. This is what they had to say…

MY SISTER (DOVE ORIGINAL)
I’m really sensitive to scents and textures, so Dove has been a brand I’ve long been using. I love the original version of their anti-perspirant as I can rely on it to keep me dry, without worrying that the texture it leaves on skin will irritate or the smell will overload my senses. My underarms feel really soft and comfortable.
MY MUM (DOVE SENSITIVE & SOFT FEEL)
I normally use the Dove shower products but I’d not used the anti-perspirants before. In this heatwave it kept me totally dry and fresh, which I was impressed with considering I usually used roll-ons and swapped for the spray. I noticed my underarms were definitely softer after trying it for a week – in fact I pH tested and the moisture levels in my armpits raised from 19% to 36% in only seven days!

MY NAN (DOVE GO FRESH CUCUMBER & GREEN TEA)
Usually I stick with the rollerball I’ve used for many years. More for the routine and peace of mind than for the protection I suppose. I really enjoyed this, particularly the scent which was really refreshing. It didn’t sting or feel uncomfortable at all, but instead felt pleasant on the skin.
MY BEST MATE (DOVE GO FRESH POMEGRANATE & LEMON VERBANA)
I have sensitive underarms so usually I opt for cream deodorants. I knew Dove would be moisturising and contain ingredients that wouldn’t irritate me, so I actually starting using the Original version a few weeks ago. The pomegranate version smells sooooo nice, without being overpowering. I can apply it straight after shaving with no stinging whatsoever (even the spray version) and it really does make your underarms so smooth! I’ve just introduced my nine year old daughter to Dove as her first foray into deodorant, as it’s a brand I know I can trust to be delicate on her skin.
MY BLOGGER BUD (DOVE GO FRESH GRAPEFRUIT & LEMONGRASS)
I’m generally quite a sweaty person so I always opt for the brands and ranges I think are going to work really hard for me; I always assumed Dove’s antiperspirants were for women who glowed – and that’s not me! I’ve been trying it for a week or so and my pits are definitely a bit more comfortable and it holds up against the sweaty summer heat too. And the fragrance is a bonus: it’s so delicate and pretty.
AND ME? (DOVE GO FRESH PEAR & ALOE)
I’ve used Dove for many years and often flit between the classic scent and new additions. I first saw this in New York last year and was probably a touch too excited about it, so I was delighted to see it being launched in the UK. The fragrance of pear is so uplifting and comforting, especially during the summer months, which when combined with aloe provides me a morning hit of freshness that keeps me confident and dry all day long. My pits are always nourished and don’t ever get sore – which is all I can ask for from my antiperspirant!

Seven variants and seven correspondingly positively glowing testimonials; proof that switching up your usual deodorant for a touch of Dove could give your underarms the care and attention they need. Our underarms are so often neglected, and can be a part of our body we’re not always so confident in revealing, but treating them with the care and attention they deserve will have you lifting your arms with pride! Whether you shave them, pluck them, decorate them, cover them, reveal them or leave them in their natural state, treat them well because they work hard every single day. Why not pick up your favourite and see what difference it could make to you in just a week?

Read my previous post all about the new Dove antiperspirant range here, and why we shouldn’t be treating our underarms differently to other areas of our body here.

Don’t forget to enter our competition to WIN a £250 high street shopping voucher and entire range of Dove antiperspirants too!

Dove’s new and improved anti-perspirants are available now, priced from around £2.30. Discover more on their website here.

This is a sponsored post in partnership with Dove; all opinions are my own and I’ve used the Dove deodorants for more than a decade.

Features PR samples unless otherwise stated. To read my full disclaimer, click here.

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