Tis the season for Plump Lips

As the seasons are changing and the temperatures are dropping the lips can be one of the first areas to shows signs of change becoming dry and flaky. Without the hot summer sun, the desire for thirst quenching drinks drops and results in more dehydrated lips. 

LIP TIP: The lips are like sponges so keep them well hydrated to promote fullness. Moisturize with nourishing ingredients such as shea butter, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and sesame extract. 

Lips are in constant use with eating, drinking & communicating, so the lips and perioral region can start to show signs of aging earlier than other areas of the face. After the age of 30 the skin starts to loose collagen, which is the fiber that gives skin its strength, tone & volume. 

"After age 30, our collagen level drops 1%-2% every year. By age 40, we have lost 10%-20% of our collagen. By 50, we are down 20%-40%," states Renew Alliance. 

Each decade the lack of plumpness becomes more visible through biological change. Prevent and repair feather lines and loss of plumpness with targeted lip treatments. 

LIP TIP: Strengthen the lips barrier with products that include Indian gentian extract which increases epidermal thickness, reduces the fragility and minimizes feather lines. 

Lips are only 3-5 cell layers thick, being thinner skinned they contain less oil glands. Licking lips to rehydrate has the opposite affect because saliva is dehydrating making the lips more vulnerable to dryness & chapping. Lip balms act as a quick fix, but the wrong  ingredients can contribute to lip dehydration and dryness. Heavy mineral based balms can confuse the lip tissue and reduce the production of the lips natural moisture barrier which results in a lip balm addiction. Without the crutch of a heavy balm lips can become extremely dry, flaky and can even split and bleed in harsher climates. 

LIP TIP: Avoid mineral oil or petroleum based lip balms & nourish lips with products rich in plant oils like shea butter which naturally restore the barrier lipids and hydrate the skin. 

The main muscle in the lips is the obicularis oris which is circular and is used to make a pucker up expression. Ageing skin looses its collagen & elastin and combined with dryness feather lines can form. Sipping through a straw or smoking can accelerate the aging process causing feather lines and wrinkles to form prematurely. 

LIP TIP: use a nightly lip treatment that contains apple extracts to provide a saccharide complex to enhance hydration and smooth lines and advanced volumising technology increases tissue volume to plump lips. 

Regular use of lip treatment products that nourish and hydrate will improve the current lip condition and defend against further deterioration of the delicate lip tissue. 

Sunshine, Self Tan & SPF

Last week was my third Skincare Special at Ham Yard Hotel in London. I had just finished setting up and filling the goodie bags when a lady rushed in asking details about this event that just popped up on her phone when she was checking in on Facebook- it was Katy, the Co-Founder of Tan Cream! 

Katy said my business partner and the lady behind the inspiration for this product is in the Restaurant, come and meet her. Gillian had overcome skin cancer and has developed a self tan with sun protection 50, the first combination on the market. The ladies introduced their new product at my event and gave me a sample to try. 

Day One- I wore it whilst on a 2 hour hike in the California mountains, no sunburn and the gradual tan helped minimise my tan lines whilst protecting my skin. 

Day Two- I wore Tan Cream to protect my skin on a 22 mile training run for the Chicago marathon. My skin felt soft and the gradual tan gave my skin a natural glow. 

The pump applicator and light brown cream makes the product easy to apply. The colour gives an instant light bronze sheen to the skin and it helps to see where the product has been rubbed in, it absorbs quickly and protects the skin with water-resistant sun protection. 

Use this product daily to build up a natural glowing tan while protecting the skin from harsh ultra-violet rays. Exfoliate the body with a scrub two to three times a week for soft glowing skin or daily with a buffing cloth to aid natural desquamation. 

Bright Eyes SOS

My best friend, Monica sent me these with a note saying 'try these, you'll love them!', a friend of hers from UNLV had created them. After one use I was hooked, so I flew out to Las Vegas in June to meet Jason, the mastermind and was introduced to his whole family. All with bright eyes and big smiles! 

International Beauty Show- Las Vegas, NV, USA

These anti-aging power house pads are a must for every woman's bag of beauty tricks, and are particularly useful when the eyes are screaming SOS! To Go Spa EYES are travel friendly collagen masques that brighten, hydrate, and de-puff eyes in 20 minutes! They are flat packed in a use once foil wrapper to keep the pads moist and ready to work their bright eyes magic. 

The gelatine pads come in five varieties packed with nutrients to nourish and hydrate the delicate eye tissues and sit comfortably under the eyes.  

6.00am after being up in the night with young kids, these pads brightened & depuffed my eyes after 20 minutes. 

The collagen masques are formulated with ingredients such as chitosan, hyaluronic acid and red seaweed to replenish the skins water reservoir, hydrate and plump fine lines. Aloe Vera helps to soothe, calm and moisturize the delicate eye tissue. Vitamin C brightens and adds to the anti-ageing cocktail of pomegranate and Vitamin E which help reduce lines, pigmentation and block ageing free radicals from the skin. 

To Go Spa Eyes can be used daily to hydrate and brighten or as a treatment to help combat sleepless nights, travel fatigue, over indulgence, or in preparation for an event or photo shoot. For bright eyes apply under eye, leave for 20 minutes, remove and apply eye cream. 

Sneak Peak- Stress Positive Eye Lift

 

The newest addition to the Dermalogica range is launching on the 6th April! Stress Positive Eye Lift.... 

Everyone has stress in their life, but it's how you handle it that affects the skin. Does a deadline give you the adrenaline rush to finish it or fill you with dread? Take the test to find out how you deal with the daily stress life gives you www.stresspositivetest.com 

This new product focuses on the eye area, which is as thin as tissue paper therefore being the first area to show signs of distress. The tube has a metal tip which is naturally cold, so it helps to soothe the eye area as the product is applied. 

 

 

Stress Positive Eye Lift helps to brighten, lift, hydrate and de-puff the eyes. It can be used in the morning or at night as an eye masque or leave on treatment. Check out my video blog about how to apply and energise the eye area https://flipagram.com/f/16HviN2LZ6n 

Join me on April 19th for a hands on demonstration or pre-order yours today for brighter eyes this Spring! 

Retinol 101

Three steps to perfect brow

Eyebrows frame the eyes like a frame showcases a picture. The most expensive piece of art can have the wrong frame and look mediocre, just as a cheap piece of artwork can have an excellent frame and look exceptional! 

 

Three steps to the perfect natural eyebrows: 

1. Thickness- the eyebrow thickness gives definition and helps to open the eye area. If the eyebrows have been over plucked, use a growth serum like LiBrow to stimulate growth and thicken the eyebrows. 

2. Shape- the shape of eyebrows is one of the key factors for bright eyes. Every face shape has a recommended shape so the arch opens the eyes and balances the facial features. 

3. Colour- the colour of eyebrows adds definition and enhances the eye area. If it is too dark it can create a harsh look, and if the colour is too light the eyes aren't enhanced. Eyebrow tint should be done every 4-6 weeks, and needs a patch test before your first treatment. 

 

Eight things to pack in your hospital bag

 

Hands up if you've had surgery... the British Association of Aesthetic and Plastic Surgeons stated that in 2015 over 51,000 Britons opted for surgery. England is about the size of Texas and that's people opting for surgery, there are millions each year having required surgery, so what should you pack in a hospital bag to keep skin glowing? 

Cleanser- a calming wipe off cleanser will help soothe the skin post surgery and is easy to remove if you're bed bound. 

Toner- a gentle hydrating mist with hyaluronic acid to rehydrate skin whilst in an environment that is temperature regulated. 

Hydrating Booster- use a hydrating serum that contains a cross-linked hyaluronic acid that holds 5,000 times its weight in water to quench thirsty skin. 

Barrier Repair- a silicone based moisturizer that calms and protects environmentally sensitized skin. 

Eye Cream- eyes are the first area to show signs of distress, so keep them hydrated and moisturized to help combat fine lines and dark circles. 

Moisturizer- use a thicker moisturizer to help repair the skin and keep it soft and smooth. 

Hair Care- Bring a travel sized set of shampoo, conditioner and smoothing serum to keep your hairy moisturized and glossy if you're staying in hospital for a longer period of time. If it's just a quick stay, pack some dry shampoo. 

Lipstick- Lipstick brightens up a dull complexion so keep some by your bedside to brighten up your smile before visiting hours. 

If you are heading in for surgery, wish you all the best and a quick recovery. 

Six Reasons to use Thermal Spas

 

"Thermal baths are also known as hot springs and water seeps deep into the soil and – when rising – brings with it a multitude of minerals. These minerals are said to be incredibly healing, though they vary depending on the minerals in the surrounding soil" states Natural Therapy Pages 

The heat increases blood flow around the body which helps metabolism, circulation and aids the absorption of beneficial minerals. This ancient past time is a natural remedy that has been used for decades to help heal skin conditions such as exczema and psoriasis along with many other health benefits. 

The seven most common minerals found in thermal baths or hot springs are: 

Calcium- is commonly known for promoting strong bones, but it also keeps skin healthy. Calcium in the epidermis keeps skin youthful by encouraging cell renewal. 

Sulfur- has healing and antibacterial properties which help keep the springs clean and treat skin conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis. 

Magnesium- helps to heal the skin. It detoxes the skin, reduces fine lines, combats breakouts, and is excellent for cracked heels. 

Iron- helps increase the oxygen in the blood and promotes circulation. It helps combat dark circles, heal wounds and gives skin a healthy glow. 

Potassium- hydrates and balances the pH level of the skin. Soaking in potassium helps to soften and moisturise the skin naturally. 

Zinc- is healing and anti-inflammatory which helps clear congestion and calm breakouts. 

The skin is the largest organ in the body, so by regularly using thermal spas it promotes a healthy and youthful glow all over. 

Skin Detox Lesson

 

In case you missed it, yesterday I hosted a VIP launch of the New Dermalogica Daily Superfoliant. 

"92% of the world live in areas with high pollution levels that cause inflammaging" ~Dr Diana Howard

To help combat signs of ageing, pollution and to promote glowing skin follow this step by step Skin Detox. 

1. Special Cleanding Gel is a foaming cleanser. Mix 5p size amount with water and massage in upward circles around the face for 60 seconds then remove with sponges. 

2. Daily Superfoliant is formulated with alpha hydroxy acids to gently exfoliate the skin. The activated charcoal helps draw out and absorb the impurities from the skin. An anti-pollution complex with niacinamide, red algae and tara flower protect and calm the skin. 

Use 10p size amount and add water to create a cappuccino foam. Massage into the face, neck & decollate avoiding the eye area for 60 seconds. Remove with sponges and notice an instantly brighter complexion. 

3. Spritz using a hydrating spray all over the face neck and decollate so that the moisturiser is evenly absorbed. Antioxidant Hydramist contain peptides and glucosamine to help fight the signs of ageing whilst rehydrating the skin. 

4. Phyto Replenish Oil helps hydrate and repair the skins barrier function. Use 6 drops to massage into the skin or add 4 drops into a moisturiser, primer or foundation for dewy skin. 

5. Dynamic Skin Recovery is a broad spectrum daytime moisturiser that protects the skin from both ultraviolet A and B rays. It's formulated with antioxidants to feed the skin and an Age Smart complex to protect the skin from free radicals. Apply 5p size to face, neck & decollate. 

6. Skin Perfect Primer contains silicones and hydrogenised pearl to leave the skin glowing and an spf 30 to ensure the skin is fully protected from the sun. 

To protect the skin during the day, a teaspoon sized amount of sun protection should be applied to the face. To obtain this amount of sunscreen layer products that contain a medium or high sun protection factor. 

Follow this skin detox regime daily and use the Daily Superfoliant at least 3 times a week for glowing skin. 

Rescue Eyes 101

It is post holiday season and the affects of stress, over indulgence and sleepless nights are starting to appear on the skin. The eyes are the first area to show with sensitivity and dryness. Try these 4 steps to refresh your eyes or pop in for a Rescue Eye microzone. 

1. Use 5p sized amount of Soothing Eye Makeup Remover applied to damp cotton wool and gently remove eye make up. 

2. Create a cappuccino foam with Daily  Microfoliant and gently massage around the eye area with your ring finger for one minute. The rice bran will brighten & remove dead skin cells. Remove with damp cotton wool. 

3. Apply 5p size of Skin Hydrating Masque around the eye area for 5 minutes. The  cucumber & hyaluronic acid will hydrate and plump fine lines. Remove with damp cotton wool. 

4. Gently pat one drop of UltraSmoothing Eye Serum on each eye. Use the serum morning and night to rehydrate the delecate area with a cross-linked hyaluronic acid that holds 5000x its weight in water. The UltraCalming Complex will soothe irritation and protect the skins barrier. 

For Bright Eyes follow this mini rescue treatment once a week and try to sleep 6-8 hours a night. ~Diana Jenner 

Bright Eyes for the New Year!

It is Sixteen going on Seventeen

As the year draws to an end and a new one is on the horizon, it's a time I use to reflect and learn from the previous chapter. What an amazing year it's been! 

Awards, weddings, funerals, concerts, meeting stars in different industries, and precious family moments all contribute to the amazing memories made in 2016. 

This year I've been fortunate to be able to visit over 10 major cities around the world for product launches, marathons, meeting heads of industry, sports legends and rising stars! 

Life is short and it's about making the most of each day and valuing the memories made. 

This year I've learnt all you can do is work hard and try your best. If the Desire, Opportunity and Timing are in alignment the rewards are amazing. 

I'm looking forward to a new year with new goals and memories to be made! Next year already has some exciting things in store- becoming a Dermalogica brand ambassador, a part of the 2017 LGFB campaign, hosting my second skincare event at Ham Yard Hotel , 4 local VIP skincare events, and running the Chicago Marathon! 

Wishing you all a Happy and Healthy New Year, and always remember to be thankful for what you have. 

Skincare Saturday- Cleanse, Hydrate, Prime

Cleanse, Hydrate & Prime

Cleansing morning and night is the golden rule of a basic skincare regime. Use 1/4 teaspoon size of cleanser and massage the skin for 60 seconds. This helps dissolve the daily makeup, dirt and other impurities on the skin. Remove with warm water and sponges to ensure all product is gone. Then repeat to clean the skin. 

Hydrating the skin from the outside is just as important as drinking your 8 glasses of water a day. Ingredients like aloe, cucumber and hyaluronic acid promote hydration in a facial mist. If you're working in an office or traveling spritz up to five times a day to keep skin glowing. 

Priming the skin before makeup has become an essential part of a flawless finish. Primers are designed to blur fine lines, add radiance and protect the skin. Each primer focuses on a different aspect, so you can layer them if you're a real skincare junkie! 

This week started the 12 day count down to Christmas with a new daily giveaway contest. Each day I would post a photo of myself and the person to guess the location & find me won a free Skin Heroes set! Follow me for your chance to win! 

Treatment Thursday- the top 6 natural beauty uses of coconut oil.

I had a message from a friend in Colorado saying she loves my instagram feed and blog posts, thank you! 

So I have a confession- I've been using coconut oil on my face as a moisturizer before bed... my face looks so much better in the morning it's amazing! Is that weird/bad? -RH, Broomfield, CO 

There are many benefits of coconut oil for your skin, body and health. The low molecular structure in coconut oil allows the product to penetrate deeper providing the skin with richer moisture levels. 

Picture from Paleo Grubs 

Coconut Oil has also been known to be used as: 

• Face Cream 
• Body Oil 
• Makeup Remover 
• Cuticle Cream 
• Hair Conditioner
• Massage Oil  

Dr Axe states, a recent study found that 46 percent of patients with a chronic skin disease who used coconut oil had an excellent response in treating their condition

If you choose to use coconut oil in your beauty regime please make sure it is a pure product. Look for labels such as certified organic, raw or virgin coconut oil. 

Babble states, You don’t want to use any coconut oil that has been extracted with heat or refined in any way because that strips the oil of its powerful antioxidants and healing properties.

  

The subtle scent and quickly absorbed consistency make this coconut oil a staple in many beauty baskets! 

Give Thanks 365 days a year!

The definition of Thanksgiving is the expression of gratitude... 

In North America it is an annual national holiday marked by religious observances and a traditional meal. The holiday commemorates a harvest festival dating back to 1621. It brings together friends and family to give thanks and count their blessings whilst enjoying a hearty meal.

In keeping with the season, I am very grateful to all of my loyal clients, supportive family and friends along with my ever growing social media fans! What a fantastic year it has been for Orchids Retreat and myself, Diana Jenner! I adore each of my clients and look forward to seeing each one of you; it's like reading the next chapter in your life's book. I love it! 

Seasonal Treats to get you through the festive period: 

New Take 10 Treatment- A quick 10 minute flash peel to give your skin that healthy glow for the festive period. £10 for this add-on holiday treat. 

Black Friday- Special offer 20% of everything in salon 8-4 to help with your Christmas shopping 

12 Days of Christmas- 13-24 December: Come and find me for a free skincare trio! 

The lowdown on cupping!

Today I had my first cupping treatment after running the New York City Marathon.  Dual-state licensed Acupuncturist, Donna performed the treatment at Georgia Louise Inc in Manhattan. 

The suction marks left after having the treatment. 

A cupping treatment creates negative pressure by using heat and glass cups to bring blood flow and nutrients to areas of tension. The pulling action draws toxins from the muscle tissues and helps remove the waste and build up of lactic acid in the muscles. 

Donna worked on my back, hamstrings, calves and quadriceps to help ease the sore muscles in my body caused by running 26.2 miles around New York City's 5 boroughs. 

The glass cups are heated by an open torch causing the suction in the bauble which pulls the muscle fascia and draws out the toxins from stagnant areas. 

My thighs after treatment, the red marks will change colour to appear like a bruise and can last from a couple hours to a couple weeks. 

The treatment is performed in a relaxing and comfortable environment and only lasts about 30 minutes. It is a minimum time commitment with maximum results. I would definitely recommend this treatment after an athletic event or hard gym session. 

What to bring on a photoshoot

I had the honor of joining Look Good Feel Better (LGFB) in the Photoshoot for their 2017-18 campaign. It is my favourite charity as it helps lift women up when they're at their rock bottom. It is empowering women to feel better about themselves when they're fighting a tough battle and part of their womanhood is being stripped away. 

LGFB host makeup masterclasses and workshops around the world teaching women how to apply makeup to enhance their features and create eyebrows and a lashline when their hair is falling out and their skin is sallow from chemotherapy. 

Speaking to photographer friend, I was told to wear all one colour such as black or white as it shows up best on camera. It is important to wear a strong base, heavier eye makeup and a bright lipstick so that your features stand out in photos. Photographic makeup needs to be more dramatic as the lighting is a lot stronger than natural daylight. 

Wear a smile, bring enthusiasm and an open mind! Enjoy the moment and create a memory! 

Happy Halloween

Halloween is a time to carve pumpkins, get dressed up, and spend time with friends. Face paints can cause congestion on the skin especially if it's not removed thoroughly. 

After trick-or-treating and Halloween parties it is essential to double cleanse. The first cleanse with help remove the makeup, dirt and pollution from your skin while the second cleanse actually cleans the skin. 

Use an oil-based cleanser like Dermalogica precleanse to help breakdown even waterproof makeup with kukui nut and apricot kernel oils. Oil sticks to oil drawing the impurities away from the skin, emulsify with water and remove with a sponge or cloth. 

The second cleanser should suit your skin type; foaming for oilier skins or creamy for a drier complexion. Massage into the skin for sixty seconds and remove. 

Happy Halloween and remember to double cleanse for glowing skin! 

Travel Tuesday: Desert Island Beauty & Wellness- Part 8: Serum

Travel Tuesday: Desert Island Beauty & Wellness- Part 8: Serum

A popular radio program in the UK called Desert Island Discs asks a variety of listeners what they would take to a Desert Island. If they were only allowed 8 records what would they pack?  

A friend asked me what my beauty version would be. The final item I would pack is an anti-ageing serum that helps me sleep. This series has covered skincare, food, fitness, books and assuming a desert island might not be plush with comfortable mattresses I would take my Overnight Repair Serum by Dermalogica to help me get a good night sleep. 

The Argan Oil helps fight antioxidants and protect the skin, the peptides help to stimulate collagen and hyaluronic acid hydrates the skin. There is also a complex of essential oils that help to synchronize the nighttime circadian rhythm to promote sleep, cell renewal and skin hydration. My age-fighting serum in a bottle!