I have been a little quiet of late as I've been sunning myself on my hollibobs, but fear not blog fans - I am back from Ibiza in (almost...) one piece ready to fill you in on all the fashion and beauty news of the last couple of weeks!
If you are heading off into the sunshine in the next few weeks (just as the sun comes out here - sod's law...) make sure you're vanity case is well stocked. There are a host of fabulous new products out this summer to keep you primped and preened in the sun, so here are my pick of the bunch that saw me through my holiday in style!
Don't even think about hitting the beach without sunscreen, or you will burn (like I did) and then peel (like I am). Never a good look. Vichy's Capital Soleil collection - pictured above, new for 2011 - has a photostable filtering system is based on Mexoryl meaning it provides protection from both UVB and UVA. The patented filters are shown to help protect stem cells to retain their regenerative potential. Skin is protected against the formation of brown spots and sun-induced pre-mature ageing. The After Sun Cellular SOS repair balm is specifically targeted for sunburn. A repairing balm which associates Epilobe Extract, a powerful, soothing active ingredient to instantly relieve burning sensations and pain, anda bio-absorbable Lipid Concentrateto target degraded cell membranes and restore their protective function. The result is instantly relieved skin feeling intensively rehydrated, with
regained natural balance. From £11.00 at www.vichyconsult.co.uk
Holiday hair is always a tricky one. Do you take the hairdryer/GHDs and risk going overweight on your luggage (vital weight needed for maxi dresses and wedges...) or do you risk the frizz? Thankfully you needn't worry about either. The Leave Me In Conditioner and Styling Crème from TOMMYGUNS is a summer styling must have - the perfect tool to keep your hair protected and styled. With added UV and thermal protection, this crème is formulated with energising GInger Root and soothing and smoothing Green Tea to protect the hair and make it shine like the sun! Amazeballs. £7.00 from www.tommygunshaircare.com and Waitrose.
A bulging toiletries bag is always an issue for me, so travel minis are an essential. Beyond Organic Skincare have created a capsule range of their hero products in handy travel sized versions. The gorgeous turquoise glass pots contain the signature organic products; using over 190 natural ingredients, 100% natural and certified organic you can be sure they are doing good things for your skin. The travel pack contains the Detoxifying Cleanser, Moisturising Day Cream, Regenerating Night Cream, Rejuvenating Serum and the incredible Rescue Salve - a Calendula & Chamomile salve designed to help with all skin irritations, inflammations, bites and dermatitis, cuts and grazes and sunburn. Travel pack £33.28 from www.beyondorganicskincare.com
You can't beat a vibrant summer nail when the sun is shining, and Toma's summer nail collection won't disappoint. With six sultry new shades that sound good enough to eat (Blueberry Sorbet, Strawberries and Cream, Grape Sorbet, Mango Sorbet, Pistachio Cream and Tutti Frutti!) you're sure to find something to suit you beach wardrobe. Though admittedly my favourite is the intriguingly named Steamy Nights, a shocking neon pink that looks delicious with a tan and was perfect for the beaches of Ibiza! £7.25 each from www.madbeauty.com
If you hate having to worry about mascara pouring down your face in the pool, head to the newly opened Lash Perfect Lash Bar off Carnaby Street and let the professionals sort you out with a set of fabulously fluttery fakes before you jet off. Your lash expert will select individual extensions to suit your eye and face shape and the look you are going for, from subtle and natural to full on glamour. I plumped for lashes that were perfectly curled and super long, though fine enough to still look natural. An hour later et voila - perfectly proportioned lashes. WIth a little maintenance including a recommended oil-free make up remover, they should last for 3-4 weeks before needing infills or replacement. Call 020 7434 4554 for more details.
Hopefully that will help with the packing dilemma - keep your eyes peeled for a post on the hottest holiday make up, coming soon!
Love Laurel x
