Tag: beauty

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Columns Health and Fitness People

Mike’s Tips for Great Men’s Hairstyles This Christmas

Expert barber Mike Edde

The festive season is calling — champagne receptions, late-night parties, and the kind of photos that live online forever. Whether you’re raising a glass at the office do, wrapping up warm for the Christmas markets, or stepping into the New Year in style, your hair deserves to look the part. Here’s how to stay sharp, confident, and camera-ready with seven expert tips from your barber.

✂️ 1. Get Your Christmas Cut Early
December is crunch time for barbers — and the best styles belong to the men who plan ahead. Get in early and give yourself room for a final tidy-up before the big night. A fresh fade or refined shape-up is the difference between “I just rolled out of bed” and “leading man energy.”

Style it up and look more James Bond than Brooke Bond

💈 2. Refresh Your Style for the Season
The holidays are the perfect excuse to evolve your look. Try a modern textured crop, classic side part, or sleek pompadour — timeless, confident, and effortlessly photogenic. Ask your barber to tighten the fade, add volume on top, or sharpen the outline. A small change can transform your entire presence.

Love Island Star drops into get that clean cut look with Mike ,,

🪮 3. Keep It Clean and Conditioned
Cold weather is brutal on hair. Upgrade your routine with a hydrating shampoo and rich conditioner to combat dryness and static. A touch of argan oil or leave-in conditioner keeps everything smooth, polished, and party-ready. Healthy hair always styles better — no exceptions.

💨 4. Master the Blow-Dry
Great hair doesn’t just happen — it’s styled. Use a blow-dryer to add lift and structure before applying product. Always direct the air in the direction you want your hair to fall. It’s a small move that separates the men who “have good hair” from the men who know how to use it.

Champion make over by Mike ready for the holidays

🧴 5. Choose the Right Product
Your summer styling cream won’t cut it in December. Cold air, central heating, and long nights call for matte clays, pomades, or grooming creams with extra hold. Go matte for natural texture or add a hint of shine for an evening edge. Either way, make sure your product works as hard as you do.

🧔 6. Don’t Neglect the Beard
A well-kept beard is the ultimate accessory to a strong haircut. Keep it shaped, hydrated, and defined. Use beard oil for softness and a subtle, masculine scent — the kind people notice without quite knowing why. Precision is everything.

🥂 7. Style It Up for the Big Nights
The calendar’s closing parties call for extra polish. Add a little shine, slick it back, or go bold with volume — whatever gives you confidence. Remember: a great cut isn’t just about the hair. It’s about the energy you walk into the room with.

Final Word: Confidence is the best product in your grooming kit. A sharp cut, clean lines, and effortless style tell the world you’ve got it together — no matter how late the night runs.\

Michael’s Barber Shop, located at 54c Kenway Road, London SW5 0RA. It is a long-established barber shop known for its experienced staff and quality cuts at reasonable prices. You can contact them at 020 7370 6983. 

  • Address: 54c Kenway Road, London SW5 0RA
  • Phone: 020 7370 6983
  • Reputation: Known for being a leading barber in Earl’s Court with experienced and personable barbers
  • Details: The shop has a quaint feel and offers quality haircuts at reasonable prices 

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Columns People Travel

Claire Mc Sweeney is back with her beauty and aesthetic tips

Clare chats to Steven Smith

This month, she chats to the editor of 2Shades, Steven Smith, about her journey in the aesthetics field and the exciting news that she is joining Aroma Clinic in Shenfield, Essex.

1. What first drew you to the world of aesthetics, and how has your philosophy on beauty evolved along the way?
I’ve always been fascinated by beauty. I trained as a beautician first, then as a nurse — it’s exciting how subtle changes can completely transform the way someone feels about themselves. What drew me in initially was that blend of creativity and science. Over the years, my philosophy has become much more about harmony rather than perfection. True beauty isn’t about altering who you are, but enhancing what’s already there — refining balance, proportion, and confidence.

Clare is a regular on Gateway radio with her expert advice ,

2. In an industry where innovation moves fast, how do you stay ahead of trends while maintaining timeless results for your clients?
I believe in curiosity with discernment. I’m constantly researching, attending international conferences, and trialling emerging technologies — but I never chase trends for their own sake. My focus is on results that will still look elegant ten years from now. Classic beauty never goes out of style, so I combine the best of modern advancements with a respect for natural proportion and restraint.

3. There’s so much conversation around ‘natural enhancement’ — what does that mean to you in practice?
To me, natural enhancement is about invisible artistry. When a treatment is done well, no one should be able to pinpoint what’s changed — only that you look refreshed, rested, and radiant. It’s about creating balance and softness rather than obvious volume or overcorrection. I often tell my clients, “You, but after a wonderful night’s sleep.”

4. Every client’s definition of beauty is unique. How do you tailor your approach to make each individual feel their most confident self?
I spend time really listening. Every consultation starts with understanding how my client feels about their reflection, not just what they want to change. From there, I design a treatment plan that complements their features, personality, and lifestyle. Confidence is deeply personal — when someone looks in the mirror and sees a version of themselves they love, that’s where the magic happens.

5. If you could dispel one common myth about aesthetic treatments, what would it be?
That aesthetics is about vanity. In truth, it’s about self-care and empowerment. The goal isn’t to change your identity — it’s to help you feel more comfortable in your own skin. Aesthetic medicine, when done thoughtfully, can be a profoundly positive experience that supports mental well-being as much as physical appearance.

6. Looking ahead, what innovations or emerging techniques are you most excited about in the aesthetics space?
I’m particularly excited by regenerative aesthetics — treatments that stimulate the body’s own collagen and elastin for natural, long-lasting results. Biostimulators, skin boosters, and energy-based technologies are transforming the field. It’s less about filling and more about rejuvenating, which aligns beautifully with my philosophy of subtle, sustainable beauty.

7. And finally, what’s your personal beauty ritual — the one indulgence you can’t live without?
A morning ritual of cold water, a vitamin C serum, and a silk pillowcase for my skin — and a moment of stillness before the day begins. Beauty isn’t just what we apply; it’s how we treat ourselves. I see it as a ritual of respect — for the skin, the mind, and the body that carries us through life. But balancing three kids with a busy career can be difficult — sometimes I forget about me.

Appointments with Claire can be booked at:
https://aroma-beautyspa.com/

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Health and Fitness Lifestyle People Uncategorized

Re[Sens] Skincare Arrives at MINX: Kensington’s Most Exclusive Beauty Destination

https://www.minxbeauty.com

Re[Sens] Skincare Arrives at MINX: Kensington’s Most Exclusive Beauty Destination

London, UK – [Date] – The secret to radiant, effortlessly flawless skin has arrived. Re[Sens], the disruptive luxury skincare brand adored by beauty insiders, is now available exclusively at MINX, the elegant beauty sanctuary in the heart of Kensington.

Blending science with indulgence, Re[Sens] was born from a singular vision: to correct the overlooked flaws in traditional skincare. Each formula is powered by a high-performance fusion of anti-inflammatory and anti-ageing actives, meticulously designed to neutralise harmful water—a hidden skin aggressor present in countless beauty routines. The result is skin that feels instantly soothed, deeply hydrated, and illuminated from within.

Already hailed by leading beauty editors, one signature product in the collection has earned the coveted label “better than Botox”—a testament to its transformative power.

For those with Celtic skin, prone to persistent redness and sensitivity, Re[Sens] is nothing short of revolutionary. Its formulas calm, balance, and even out tone in ways that foundation simply cannot, revealing a complexion that is naturally luminous and picture-perfect.

From silky serums for youthful and oily complexions to indulgent, peptide-rich creams for mature skin, every product in the range delivers measurable, visible results. The anti-ageing line in particular has gained a loyal following among high-profile clients. Television presenter and author Wendy Turner Webster credits the range with a remarkable improvement in her skin—so much so that she is often asked if she has had cosmetic treatments.

Wendy Turner Webster a huge fan of Re Sens

“We are delighted to bring Re[Sens] to MINX, a place that embodies sophistication, expertise, and excellence,” says a spokesperson for Re[Sens]. “The team’s dedication to personalised beauty experiences perfectly complements our mission to deliver skincare that doesn’t just promise results—it delivers them.”

https://resenss.com/en-eu?srsltid=AfmBOooKMX5xig0ly3WpReLSxx_9k7pMssjG-5OlbPUcpOYqAm2BUOwC

At MINX, the experience is as indulgent as the results. Kensington’s most discerning clientele can enjoy bespoke skincare consultations from expert therapists trained in the Re[Sens] philosophy. Every visit is a journey—one where clients leave not only with extraordinary products, but with the knowledge to transform their skincare routine forever.

This exclusive collaboration between Re[Sens] and MINX invites Londoners to indulge in the ultimate skincare luxury: scientifically perfected formulas, beautifully presented, and trusted by those who expect nothing less than exceptional.

Discover the difference at MINX, where beauty is not just enhanced—it is redefined.

For more information or to explore the complete Re[Sens] collection, visit:
🔗 MINX Beauty
🔗 Imagine You

Categories
Columns Health and Fitness

The New Beauty Rules: Protecting Yourself in the Aesthetics Boom

Beware the cowboy injectors .

Clare McSweeney reports

Finally, laws are being introduced to stop unqualified people performing cosmetic treatments. It won’t be easy to enforce, but it’s a vital step forward.

The aesthetics industry is now worth billions, with social media piling on the pressure to look “perfect” or copy a celebrity face. Both mindsets are unhealthy. Real beauty is about confidence—being the best version of yourself, not a clone of someone else. Done well, aesthetics should enhance your natural features, not disguise them.

We’ve all seen beautiful people lose their uniqueness through overfilled lips, frozen foreheads, or mask-like faces. Sometimes, it’s not the doctor’s fault—addiction to treatments is real, and when reputable practitioners refuse to go further, some clients shop around until they find someone who will. That’s where the danger lies.

The truth? Aesthetics should only be carried out by skilled doctors, nurses, or dentists with specialist training. Sadly, it’s still possible for someone with no background in beauty or healthcare to take a short course and start injecting. With treatments marketed as casually as a haircut, many clients never think to check credentials.

So, protect yourself. Always see qualifications, check medical registration, and insist on meeting the actual practitioner—not just a “patient coordinator” in sales mode. Avoid clinics that rely on flashy ads (unless they’re new) and trust word-of-mouth recommendations from people you know.

In the right hands, aesthetics can be a subtle art form that brings out your best features. But remember: even the top professionals can’t promise perfection, and complications do happen. That’s why your treatments should only ever be in the hands of a true expert—one who values your safety, skillfully enhances your beauty, and keeps your privacy sacred.

Clare’s quick tips for finding the right practitioner:

  1. Ask around – hairdressers, beauty therapists, and make-up artists often know the best.
  2. Check the space – it should be spotless and professional.
  3. Guard your privacy – no loud “Are you here for Botox?” in reception.
  4. Demand hygiene – you should be properly draped and protected.
  5. Verify credentials – never assume they’re qualified; check.
  6. Have a consultation – speak directly to the person treating you.
  7. Look for aftercare – a follow-up appointment should be standard.
Categories
Columns Health and Fitness Uncategorized

Top Beauty tips

Steven’s four products tips

  1. Watermans violet shampoo for blondes https://watermanshair.com/products/best-shampoo-for-blonde-hair  £22.00 

“Blondes have more fun”. But in this current heat wave the sun can strip your colour and take you from a cool blonde to a brassy one in just one outing to the seaside! Rushing to get that toner in the salon can be costly. However, armed with Waterman’s violet shampoo and conditioner, you can remove those unwanted yellow tones without an extra salon visit between your normal appointments. Be careful how long you leave the conditioner on as, depending on how cool you want your hair to look, five minutes should be enough. Watermans also do a great range of hair care for thinning or fine hair.

Vegan friendly, this collagen moisturiser has a sun factor of 25 and tightens the skin.

With ingredients like Argon oil and shea butter it may be a little on the pricey side, but fans of Crème de la Mer might find it a cheaper alternative. 

Jeunvie is a favourite range amongst cosmetic doctors. Asal Shirazi created the range with the vision of keeping it as close to nature as possible. For men, I just love the moisturiser to shave with too. 

£22.00 for 12

A must have in this heat, it has absolutely no cholesterol – this is in addition to being a low-calorie drink.

Coconut water is identical to blood plasma. In World War II and even today in very rare cases in countries, coconut water has saved lives by being used as an intravenous hydration fluid instead of the standard IV fluid. Despite being naturally sweet, it is extremely low in sugars. It is low in sodium compared to energy drinks, and high in chloride compared to sports drinks. It regulates and controls the body’s temperature and boosts the immune system.

It boosts your metabolism, which is an important step in a person’s weight loss process.

It is a natural isotonic beverage, i.e. is the perfect drink to rehydrate your body and replenish lost electrolytes.

It cleanses and settles the digestive tract by actively killing intestinal worms, which makes for easier digestion and less chance of digestive illness. Coconut water controls vomiting, making it extremely important for those suffering from ailments that cause vomiting like typhoid, malaria, or fevers. If you are summer partying, coconut water is a must for that hangover.

If you, your man or anyone wants to smell that extra bit classy, you cannot go wrong with my secret weapon Perfums-De Marly. I adore Layton Exclusif from the brand designed for the male, but in this day and age anyone can wear it. It might seem a little pricey, but keep it for those special occasions when you want to stand out.

It is a rich and woody fragrance and will make an impression. Top notes of bergamot, grapefruit, and apple softly envelop the heart of cinnamon, lavender, agarwood, and geranium. The base is concluded by guaiac wood, sensual vanilla and sweet cypriol. A revival on the traditional, yet refined in its scent. 

It is also a secret must for many celebrities.

END 

Categories
Columns Health and Fitness

Fab 4 four for Lips and eyebrows 

Fab 4 four for Lips and eyebrows 

Nothing can make you stand out like perfect eyebrows and kissable lips. Here is my Fab 4 list to make you a head-turner.

1) Lips – Elizabeth Arden 8-Hour Cream – £19.00
It’s not just a prince’s willy this cream can work its magic on! A favourite of supermodels and royalty the world over, this cult classic is perfect for moisturising the face on long-haul flights, but for truly kissable lips, it’s a must-have in your bag. It calms, protects, and hydrates—fantastic for chapped and dry lips. Apply it at night before bed and wake up with smooth, supple lips. It’s even great for hands.

Elizabeth Arden 8-Hour Cream

2) Lips – Patrick TA Major Volume Plumping Lip Gloss – £14.00
Megan Fox and Kim Kardashian swear by Patrick Ta’s eponymous line of richly pigmented lipsticks, eyeliners, and blushes—so the celebrity makeup artist must be onto something. It’s incredibly hydrating, and the scent is divine. The plumping effect is impressive, and it’s surprisingly affordable compared to other glosses. Infused with a warming blend of vitamin E, pepper, ginger, cinnamon, and peppermint, it leaves lips looking fuller and feeling fabulous. With a client list that reads like a Hollywood who’s who, you can’t go wrong.

Patrick TA Major Volume Plumping Gloss

3) Eyebrow Lamination – Price on request
The latest celebrity craze has women and men queuing up to emulate the stars. Eyebrow lamination focuses on creating shiny, smooth brows, perfect for taming unruly or thinning eyebrows. When combined with tinting and threading, it gives your brows a polished, gold-star finish. Unlike microblading, this semi-permanent treatment involves no needles and can also help conceal scars or gaps. While it requires more maintenance than microblading, the results are worth it.

The queen of lamination, Samira Boussaid, has worked at London Fashion Week and on Vogue shoots. Her A-list clientele includes Love Islanders and the fashion elite.
udbrows.com
Instagram: @SamiraBoussaidBrows

4) Eyelash Tinting – from £25.00
Have an early morning Zoom call or want to look good coming out of the pool? Try eyelash tinting—a semi-permanent dye that gives the appearance of mascara without any effort. While it won’t add curl, length, or volume, it does make lashes look darker and more defined. It’s especially effective for those with light lashes or tips that fade. The salon treatment takes around 30 minutes and lasts for up to four weeks.

Recommended:  Minx
www.minxbeauty.com

From £1.30

Cheap Fix Vaseline . , a brand of petroleum jelly, is widely used as a beauty staple for eyebrows and eyelashes due to its moisturizing and protective properties. When applied sparingly, it helps condition and soften the hairs, making eyebrows appear fuller and more groomed while giving eyelashes a glossier, healthier look. Its occlusive nature locks in moisture, which can prevent dryness and breakage, especially in harsh weather or after removing makeup. While it doesn’t directly stimulate hair growth, its hydrating effect can create a healthier environment for hair to thrive. Always apply a small amount with clean hands or a cotton swab to avoid clogging pores or irritating the delicate eye area.

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Columns Health and Fitness Lifestyle Uncategorized

The Fab Four for sleep.

Fab 4 for Sleep

Having trouble sleeping—or just want the best natural help to drift off without taking a pill? Here are my fab four to stop you from counting sheep as you float away to la-la land.

1) Sour Cherry Juice

Tart cherries, among many other benefits, contain melatonin. Increasing your melatonin levels can help you fall asleep quicker and stay asleep longer, offering a natural way to drift through the night. Cherry juice can also help fight inflammation, reduce muscle soreness, and boost your immune system.

Try drinking a glass of juice an hour before bedtime. This gives it time to enter your system—and gives you time to use the bathroom, so your bladder won’t wake you up in the night! If you don’t like the taste of cherry juice, try it in capsule form. Another great tip is to have a warm lavender bath before bed.

🔗 Buy Cherry Juice Concentrate on Amazon

2) Fresh Face Pillows

Your bedding plays a big part in how well you sleep. My secret weapon is the Fresh Face Pillow—a memory foam pillow wrapped in a silk pillow slip. I’ve always been a devotee of silk and memory foam pillows, but this is different: this pillow literally gives you a cuddle. It’s sheer heaven as you lie back and prepare to dream. It’s also an incredible anti-ageing tool—the silk allows your face to breathe and glide, while the pillow’s unique shape encourages back sleeping, helping prevent those dreaded sleep lines.

If you’re like me and used to sleeping on your side, the Fresh Face Pillow may take some getting used to. In fact, it felt a little claustrophobic the first time I tried it! But the idea of waking up without looking like a giant gorilla had assaulted me in the night made me persevere.

During the first few weeks, I’d use it for short lie-downs with a face mask—it felt like I was at the beautician’s! By the second week, I started using it for full nights. At first, I still woke on my side, but soon it became a must at bedtime. I cannot recommend it enough. Just remember to hand-wash your silk pillowcase or use a delicate setting.

🔗 Visit freshfacepillow.com

3) This Works Best-Selling Deep Sleep Pillow Spray

This Works Deep Sleep Pillow Spray not only claims to help you fall asleep faster—it also makes your pillows and bedroom smell gorgeous. With a calming blend of lavender, vetivert, and wild camomile, it eases anxiety and helps improve sleep quality. When we sleep, our skin cells repair damage and remove toxins, making deep sleep one of the best beauty secrets.

A few sprays on your pillow before bed is all it takes. And if you have time, a warm lavender bath beforehand works wonders too.

🔗 Buy on thisworks.com

4) The Mirari Life Grace Silk Velvet Eye Mask

One of the best aids for sleep and beauty is an eye mask. Blocking out light can be a game-changer—especially on long-haul flights. But not just any mask will do. The delicate skin around your eyes deserves something gentle. I always recommend a silk eye mask, and the Mirari Life Grace Silk Velvet Eye Mask is pure perfection.

Made from a luxurious silk-velvet blend, this mask is thick enough to give a complete blackout effect—ideal for even the most light-sensitive sleepers. It also helps reduce sleep creases and preserve your skincare. Yes, it’s a bit pricier than standard eye masks, but it’s a wonderful investment in your beauty regime. Plus, it’s perfect for travel.

🔗 Shop the Grace Silk Velvet Eye Mask

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Columns Lifestyle People Poetry

Michael Edde top hair and beard tips for summer.

Love Island star drops into see Michael.

Michael Edde, celebrity barber and owner of a legendary shop in Earl’s Court, London, is creating a buzz among locals, celebrities, and some of the best-groomed men in the city.

Known for his sharp cuts, signature fades, and impeccable beard work, Michael has become a go-to name for those who take grooming seriously.

In this issue of 2Shades magazine, he shares his top 5 summer tips to keep your hair and beard looking fresh, stylish, and perfectly on point — no matter how high the temperatures rise.

From heat-proof styles to beard maintenance in the sun, Michael’s expert advice will have you turning heads all season long.

Michael with presenting star Eamonn Holmes .

Top five tips for Summer hair .

Summer is all about keeping it sharp but effortless. I always tell my clients to go for clean, textured cuts that work with the natural flow of their hair — not against it. Think lighter on the sides and a little movement on top; it keeps things fresh without needing too much product.

Humidity can be your enemy, so choose styling products wisely. Swap out heavy waxes or pomades for lightweight clays or sea salt sprays. They give hold without weighing the hair down, and they let you run your hands through it without that greasy feel.

If you’re growing out a fade or wearing a buzz cut, now’s the perfect time to experiment. Sunlight adds natural dimension, and a well-blended skin fade can really frame the face and show off bone structure — especially with a bit of tan.

Shorter styles are ideal in the heat, but that doesn’t mean boring. Ask your barber for a cut that suits your face shape and hair type — something that looks good messy or styled, so you’re not locked into one look.

And finally, book in for regular neck trims and tidy-ups. Nothing kills a clean summer look faster than a fuzzy neckline or untamed sideburns. Little maintenance goes a long way in looking polished without looking overdone.

Top Five tips for summer beards.

Summer can be brutal on beards, so it’s all about smart grooming. The sun, heat, and humidity will dry out your beard faster than you think, so hydration is everything. I always recommend using a lightweight beard oil daily — it softens the hair, nourishes the skin underneath, and keeps you from itching like mad in the heat.

Washing your beard properly is key. Don’t just use your regular shampoo — that’ll strip out the natural oils. Go for a dedicated beard wash two to three times a week, and follow it up with a conditioner if your beard’s longer or feeling coarse.\

If you’re growing it out, patience is your best friend — but so is a good shape-up. Don’t wait until it’s wild and uneven. Pop in every couple of weeks for a tidy-up around the cheeks, neckline, and ‘tache. A clean outline makes even a shorter beard look intentional and stylish.

Exfoliating the skin beneath your beard might sound over-the-top, but trust me — it helps prevent ingrown hairs, flakiness, and clogged pores, especially in the heat. A gentle scrub once a week keeps everything fresh underneath.

And finally, protect your beard from the sun. Yep, that’s a thing. Just like your scalp, your beard can get UV damage. Look for beard products with SPF or run a tiny bit of your facial sunscreen through the beard — it’ll save you from dryness and colour fade.

Address: 54C Kenway Rd, London SW5 0RA

Phone: 020 7370 6983

Categories
Columns Health and Fitness Travel

The Fab 4 Beer Bottle Pockets, Champagne Tastes


We’ve all been there—wanting the best in skin and hair care to help us look our best, but without the budget for high-end brands. This month’s Fab 4 features top-quality beauty products that deliver amazing results without breaking the bank.

https://www.waitrose.com/ecom/shop/browse/groceries/baby_child_and_parent/bathtime_and_toiletries/baby_creams_balms_and_lotions?srsltid=AfmBOorWjVq3s04aXXi0X-QsLDooJcxh_e3wgcGfzsICZ8iCC7UG5dI-

1) Best Moisturiser: Waitrose Baby Bottom Butter
Originally designed to soothe and protect babies’ skin from infection and irritation, this wonder cream doubles as one of the best anti-ageing moisturisers I’ve ever used. At just £2.54 a pot, it’s a must-have for any beauty cabinet.

Waitrose’s Baby Bottom Butter is my number one skincare essential. I apply it at night before bed and wake up with fresh, dewy skin. It can be used during the day, but only sparingly—as it can leave a waxy finish, particularly if you’ve had Botox, which may result in a mask-like look. That said, slather it on at night and prepare to be amazed. It sells out quickly, so stock up when you find it!

https://www.ocado.com/products/original-source-i-m-plant-based-lavender-and-rosemary-shower-gel-554362011?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=21056899371&utm_content=non-brand&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21066892480&gbraid=0AAAAADi6iHlhRKrWDxVWQ5oHKVOv6l3Fd&gclid=CjwKCAjwgb_CBhBMEiwA0p3oOAHBnWXl1chxg1_ZiDPStTr8TpNlq8yHWLnE87VqBbh88N6aUe9kcxoCWxAQAvD_BwE

2) Best Shower Gel: I’m Plant-Based – Original Source Body Wash
If Jo Malone or Molton Brown shower gels are out of your price range, try Original Source’s “I’m Plant-Based” collection. Bursting with consciously sourced natural ingredients, this body wash delivers a luxurious lather and a fresh, sensorial experience.

The Lavender & Rosemary scent is particularly divine, packed with blooming lavender harvested straight from the field and fragrant sprigs of rosemary. It’s 96% naturally derived, cruelty-free, and wonderfully foamy. I keep one in my gym bag and another at home. At around £2, it’s a no-brainer.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Arm-Hammer-Pure-Baking-Soda/dp/B007SUVIXS/ref=asc_df_B007SUVIXS?mcid=e9b5d0d84efc380590430f44f2f30c04&hvocijid=5456473174898625950-B007SUVIXS-&hvexpln=74&tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=696285193871&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=5456473174898625950&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9045885&hvtargid=pla-2281435177578&gad_source=1&th=1

3) Secret Weapon: Baking Soda for Hair and More
For a hair-boosting trick, mix two teaspoons of baking soda with your favourite shampoo. Apply to wet hair, massage well, leave for a minute, rinse, and condition as normal. This simple treatment adds volume, shine, and a fresh feel—ideal for use every two weeks.

Baking soda also doubles as an effective natural deodorant. Just apply a teaspoon under each arm. Important: Do not confuse baking soda with baking powder—they are not the same!

https://watermanshair.com/?tw_source=google&tw_adid=551969531980&tw_campaign=12888053217&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=12888053217&gbraid=0AAAAABbiWeN-OpKRXbWWM4nlWx42fUwxQ&gclid=CjwKCAjwgb_CBhBMEiwA0p3oOId_ZcBmsmj-FcHUe4XY40GZUeR4O4VMLmNoNWaEandAm4FoXRcbRRoCigcQAvD_BwE

4) Best Hair Growth Shampoo: Watermans ‘Grow Me’
Hair loss treatments can be eye-wateringly expensive. If you’re noticing thinning hair or simply want to boost volume, Watermans Grow Me shampoo is a fantastic, affordable alternative.

Founded by Gail and Matt Waterman—both of whom experienced hair loss—Watermans launched in 2012 and now sells a product every 30 seconds worldwide. The company is driven by results and community support, not just profits. They donate ‘Grow Me’ shampoo to chemotherapy wards across the UK and other products to the NHS and Ukraine, while also backing grassroots football teams nationwide.

If you want fuller, stronger hair without the high price tag, this is a great place to start.
From £13.95 GBP

END

Categories
Columns Health and Fitness Lifestyle People

Get glowing, confident, and celebration-ready from head to toe. Clare Mc Sweeney is here to get you Pride ready .

With Pride season in full swing, many of us want to feel and look our most radiant. Whether you’re marching, dancing, or cheering from the sidelines, self-expression and self-care go hand-in-hand. We spoke to an experienced aesthetic nurse – therapist to find out how to prepare for the big day with treatments that celebrate confidence, individuality, and skin-loving care I am here to help .

What are the best skin prep treatments to get that fresh, glowing look ahead of Pride?
In the lead-up to Pride, skin prep is key to feeling confident and radiant. Gentle enzyme peels or mild exfoliating facials help remove dull, dead skin while stimulating natural cell renewal. Hydration-based treatments, such as oxygen facials or hyaluronic acid infusions, give the skin a plump, dewy finish that lasts. Aesthetic therapists often recommend starting with a consultation to tailor the approach to your skin type and schedule. When your skin feels nourished and balanced, everything else — from outfits to energy — falls into place more easily.

Which brow or lash treatments would you recommend to make eyes pop without the need for makeup?
For clients who want to enhance their features while keeping things low-maintenance, lash lifts and brow lamination are brilliant choices. These treatments create natural definition and a lifted, wide-awake look, perfect for long days out without needing mascara or brow pencils. Tints can be added for extra depth and colour, and results typically last several weeks. Whether you’re going for bold and expressive or soft and natural, eye treatments are a great way to elevate your Pride look with minimal effort.

Can you suggest any express facials or skin boosters that give instant radiance for Pride day?
Absolutely — express facials and skin boosters are perfect for a quick pick-me-up before the big day. Treatments like LED light therapy, mini hydration facials, or vitamin-rich oxygen infusions can bring instant brightness and a refreshed appearance. They’re great for boosting circulation, calming redness, and prepping the skin for sunscreen or shimmer. Many therapists offer “lunchtime facials” that take less than an hour and still leave you glowing and party-ready. It’s a great way to build in a moment of self-care before the celebration.

How far in advance should clients book waxing or hair removal treatments to avoid irritation?
To avoid any redness or sensitivity during the Pride march, it’s best to schedule waxing or hair removal appointments at least 48–72 hours in advance. This gives the skin time to calm and heal, especially in areas prone to friction or sun exposure. If it’s your first time trying a certain treatment, allow even more time — about a week — so you can test your skin’s reaction. Exfoliating gently the day before and moisturising after can also help prevent ingrown hairs or bumps. Comfort and confidence go hand in hand, especially during Pride.

What are your top tips for keeping skin hydrated and protected during a long day outdoors at the march?
Hydration and sun protection are essential during outdoor Pride events. Start with a light, fast-absorbing moisturiser and follow with a broad-spectrum SPF — ideally factor 30 or higher. Reapply sunscreen every couple of hours, especially if you’re dancing or sweating. A facial mist can be a lifesaver for keeping cool and refreshed on the go. Don’t forget your lips and hands — SPF lip balm and lightweight hand cream can make a big difference. Staying hydrated from the inside out by drinking plenty of water is also key to maintaining that healthy glow.

Are there any gender-affirming treatments you offer that help LGBTQ+ clients feel their best during Pride?
Yes, many aesthetic clinics are proud to offer gender-affirming treatments that support clients in expressing their true selves. These can include laser hair removal, skin treatments for shaving-related concerns, brow shaping to soften or enhance facial features, or hormone-friendly skincare advice. What matters most is that clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. Pride is all about visibility and authenticity, and beauty treatments — when done with care and inclusivity — can be a powerful part of that journey.

The Fabulous Trixie Mattel

What Pride-themed or colourful beauty trends are you excited about this year? Have clients been asking for anything particularly fun or bold?
This year, there’s a huge buzz around vibrant, expressive trends that celebrate individuality. Clients are loving bold brow colours, glitter body art, rainbow-themed nails, and even temporary tattoos designed specifically for Pride. Some are opting for colourful hair tints or shimmering highlighter across the collarbones and shoulders. The atmosphere is joyful and creative — people want to make a statement and show their Pride, literally, from head to toe. It’s always such a pleasure to help clients bring their vision to life and be part of that celebration.

Happy Pride Clare

Smoggy Queens BBC iPLAYER a box set for Pride .

To book with Clare or media enquiries contact Steven Smith spman@btinternet.com