Skin Serums

View imageSerums are one of the miracle elixirs for the skin, with higher concentrations of active ingredients they are ideal for getting your skin looking healthy after the long winter months.

Here we look at three of the latest serums on the market and give our verdict:

KARIN HERZOG Glyco Rose Serum

One of the greatest anti-ageing serums on the market. But also perfect for helping to minimise scarring such as that caused by acne. Key ingredients include Glycolic Acid – a type of Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) with a small molecular structure allowing it to penetrate the surface of the skin. Apply Glyco-Rose Serum to entire face twice per week .
If the skin is dry and over 30 and has scarring; apply the gel then leave for 30 minutes. Apply Vita-A-Kombi Oil then your recommended Oxygen product (Vita-A-Kombi 2).
If under 30 and has scaring just apply Gel, leave for 30 minutes then apply Oxygen Face Cream on top.KarinHerzog gel [320x200].jpg

 

 

OUR RATING 9/10 £40 (30ml) Buy at www.karinherzog.co.uk or for stockists call 0800 056 2428.

BOOTS No 7 Protect & Perfect Beauty Serum
This is from the Boots range that has been proven scientifically to restore the skin’s structure and appearance and reduce deep lines and wrinkles by up to 50%.The magic ingredient is Vitamin A. 

 

Boots serum [320x200].jpgGreat for mature skin that needs perking up – and for optimum effect use for six months. A light creamy, silky serum that sinks into the skin, it softens and freshens right from day one. A brand your can trust to do what it says. Rating 8/10. £19.75 30ml

VITAL C Hydrating A C E SERUM from Image Skincare

An advanced polypeptide anti-oxidant formula of the three most important vitamins to protect skin from ageing A,C, E  as well as the antioxidant super oxide dimutase. Suitable for all skin types but principally targeted at environmentally damaged and sensitive rosacea-prone skin.

102196 0075b [320x200].JPGThis serum has a great orange smell and soaks into the skin with an instant tightening and rejunveating effect.  Apply to skin after cleaning night and morning. The skin feels taut and radiant.  This is a very light serum – non-greasy or oily. Fantastic – we loved it. Rating 9/10. £44 for 14.8ml www.skingeeks.co.uk

Vinotherapy in the green heart of Italy

At Elixir we promote the anti-ageing properties of red wine – it is full of antioxidants, including resveratrol.  And we thought the only way to sample the anti-ageing effects was to drink it!  So you might perhaps understand my shock when I sampled vinotherapy for the first time.

 

After one of the best massages I can ever remember I was relaxing in the vinotherapy bath tub, containing what I assumed to be grape extracts when my spa therapist uncorked a perfectly good bottle of red wine and poured its contents into my bath. Seeing the look of pure horror on my face she relented and saved a glass, saying it wasn’t good to drink too much in the spa.

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So with glass in hand I not only tasted but relaxed and bathed in  the revitalizing and antioxidant vapours of one of the fine wines of Torgiano – a hilltop village in the heart of the famous DOC and DOCG wine region of Umbria.

The Bellauve Winetherapy Spa is indeed a gem. It is peaceful and beautiful, with indoor and outdoor pools, Turkish baths, gym and outdoor relaxation areas surrounded by olive groves and views of the Umbrian Hills.

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The spa  is set in one of the region’s most exclusive five-star hotels, the Relais Hotel Le Tre Vasalle. The hotel, in a 17th century house and whose name refers to the ancient ceramic winejugs, is in a narrow street in what was once a fortified village in the Middle Ages, near  ancient towns of  Perugia (5 miles) and Assisi (10 miles).

Surrounded by antique furniture and paintings, each of the 60 bedrooms is furnished differently, giving it has the atmosphere of a grand country home – perfect for a romantic getaway. The restaurant, Le Melograine, reworks traditional Umbrian specialities such as pasta with black truffles, as well as diet menus served with famous local wines.

Le Tre Vassale brings together wine, art and hospitality. This is because the hotel is the passion of one family – the Lungarottis, first and second generation winemakers who have made Torgiano their own.

Le Tre Vaselle, outdoor pool [320x200].jpg

The family has filled the town. As well as the hotel, there is a wine museum and olive oil, museum and the nearby Cantine Lunggarotti which produces the finest red wines  grown on surrounding slopes (Sangiovese, Anaiolo, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon), including Rubesco. The whites (Trebiano, Grechetto, Chardonnay, Pinot are grown on cooler hillsides. And there is also an excellent sparkling Lungarotti Brut made with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Giogrgio Lungarotti and his wife and Maria Grazia, an art historian run the winery business with daughters Chiara and Teresa and produce around three million bottles of wine annually.

Cantine Lungarotti, Torgiano Rubesco RIserva [320x200].jpg

A visit to the Wine Museum and the Cantine are a must. Housed in the 17th century Palazzo Graziani-Baglioni, it has one of the most comprehensive collections of viticulture artifacts anywhere in the world – from its earliest stages in the Mediteranean to the Middle Ages and beyond – covering five thousand years of winemaking history. The theme of Bacchus runs through the collections which are housed in 20 rooms, featuring working tools, the ….of pleasure, fine prints, drawings, antiquarian books and graphics by Picasso and a glass by Jean Cocteau.

Wine Museum, Fondazione Lungarotti, Cocteau glass [320x200].jpg

The hotel offers a range of activities including truffle hunting, cookery classes, as well as scooter hire.

I have always wanted to go truffle hunting.  And it was not a disappointment.  No need to get up at the crack of dawn.  After a lazy breakfast we are driven to a nearby forest to meet our guide Matteo and his English setter Asia.

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The black traffles, known locally as “black gold” can fetch up to 150 Euros a kilo and the rarer white 3,000 Euros so the cost of buying your truffle dog – 4,000 euros in the case of Asia can pay dividends.

 

Asia was no disappointment.  She was driven by a reward of a cheese slice each time she found a truffle. Sniffing the ground and as if by magic she would start digging with her paws, finding truffle after truffle.  Standing on her back legs she put her front paws on Mateo’s hips to claim her reward.

 

As we walked in the woods we passed groups riding horses – this is also riding country. And back at the minibus we were greeted by table laden with a feast of antipasti and red wine – and it was only 10.30am! A bit early even for me but sometimes a girl has to do what a girl has to do! It would be rude not to.

FACT BOX

Hotel Le Tre Vaselle, via Garibaldi, 48. Torgiana – Perugia. T: + 39 075 9880447
www.3vaselle.it Double rooms from  £194 ($297, €220), also look out for special packages and promotions on the website.

Cantine Giogio Lungarotti T: + 39 075 988661 

www.lungarotti.it information on wine tastings Sabrina@lungarotti.it

Wine and Olive and Oil MuseumsT: +39 075 9880200 
museovno@lungarotti.it

 

Getting to Torgiano

Alitalia to Rome www.alitalia.com

Ryanair to Perugia www.ryanair.com

 

Reader discount + win tickets to the Hove Champagne Festival

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Elixir totally believes in the anti-ageing benefits of Champagne and the magic of the bubbles makes it one of the most captivating drinks in the world!

We have two tickets – each worth £12 – to the UK’s only Champagne Festival in Hove, on the famous Hove Lawns to giveaway on 4/5 June. Enjoy tastings, canapes from Brighton’s top restaurants and the opportunity to see around 50 Champagne Houses in action telling you about their latest blends, special cuvee’s and just what makes their Champagne quite so special.

Two tickets for lucky readers are available if you can answer the following question: Where is the UK’s only Champagne Festival to be held?

(a) London
(b) Edinburgh
(c) Hove

Send your answer, with your name and address and Hove in the email header to readeroffer@elixirnews.com by 31 May 2010 and the winning tickets tickets will be despatched by return on that date. Please note that the Editor’s decision is final and no cash equivalent is offered.

READER OFFER

The Hove Champagne Festival are offering 10% discount to all Elixir News readers booking tickets to the Hove Champagne Festival. Visit www.hovechampagnefestival.comor call 0871 230 3449 quoting “Elixir” to receive your discount. Tickets start from just £12 each.

Win DKNY shades and a set of luxury suncare

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Look fabulous and stay safe in the sun courtesy of The Sun Mousse. Win a pair of DKYN Classic Oval glasses and a full range from The Sun Mouse.

As we experience first really sunny weather it’s impossible not to get excited about the thoughts of spending lazy days in the sun and going away on long awaited sun drenched holidays after the particularly ferocious winter we’ve experienced! However before we get too carried away it’s important to remember that when we enjoy the sun we have to enjoy it safely as let’s face it, being burnt has never been a good or healthy look…

Luckily for us The Sun Mousse is here to ensure we can enjoy the sun whilst being protected… The Sun Mousse is an entirely unique, sun care product providing immediate and effective protection from UVA and UVB radiation with rapid absorption for a lighter feeling sun protection. With its light textured non greasy formula it leaves skin feeling soft and smooth with the added benefits of being water resistant and suitable for the whole family!

Now look tylish in the sun – win a pair of DKNY Classic Oval sunglasses and the full range from The Sun Mousse. To get your hands on this fantastic prize just answer the question below:

Q. What does the UV in UVB stand for?

(a) Ultraviolet
(b) Upperviolet
(c)UltraVile

Send your answer, with your name and address to readeroffer@elixirnews.com with UVA in the email header. Please note that this offer closes on 12 June 2010, the Editor’s decision is final, and no cash equivalent is offered.

For more information visit www.thesunmousse.co.uk

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Why its good to exercise gingerly

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New York: Eating ginger can help ease muscle pain caused by heavy exercise, new research from the US suggests.

A daily dose of the spice can helo relieve the aches from sport, or even gardening and heavy housework.

An age-old remedy for a variety of ailments including colds and upset stomachs, scientists have long known it has painkilling properties.

But the new research from the University of Georgia confirms that it is particularly good at preventing muscle pain.

Ginger has been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect in rodents, but its effect on muscle pain in humans has never been properly studied.

It is known to contain chemicals that work in a similar way to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Ibuprofen and aspirin.

Previous studies have shown it can be effective in relieving the pain of arthritis.
Professor O’Connor directed two studies in which 34 and 40 volunteers respectively took capsules containing two grams of either raw or heat-treated ginger, or a placebo for 11 consecutive days.

On the eighth day they lifted weights to induce moderate muscle injury in the arm. Arm function, inflammation and pain were assessed before the exercise and for three days after. The levels of a chemical involved in feeling pain was also measured before and after.

The studies showed daily ginger intake reduced the exercise-induced pain by 25 per cent. Heating the ginger had no effect.

The research, funded by the McCormick Science Institute, will be published in the September issue of The Journal of Pain.

New anti-ageing serums – we give our test verdict

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Serums are one of the miracle elixirs for the skin, with higher concentrations of active ingredients they are ideal for getting your skin looking healthy after the long winter months.

Here we look at three of the latest serums on the market and give our verdict:

KARIN HERZOG Glyco Rose Serum

One of the greatest anti-ageing serums on the market. But also perfect for helping to minimise scarring such as that caused by acne. Key ingredients include Glycolic Acid – a type of Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) with a small molecular structure allowing it to penetrate the surface of the skin. Apply Glyco-Rose Serum to entire face twice per week .
If the skin is dry and over 30 and has scarring; apply the gel then leave for 30 minutes. Apply Vita-A-Kombi Oil then your recommended Oxygen product (Vita-A-Kombi 2).
If under 30 and has scaring just apply Gel, leave for 30 minutes then apply Oxygen Face Cream on top.

OUR RATING 9/10 £40 (30ml) Buy at www.karinherzog.co.uk or for stockists call 0800 056 2428.

BOOTS No 7 Protect & Perfect Beauty Serum
This is from the Boots range that has been proven scientifically to restore the skin’s structure and appearance and reduce deep lines and wrinkles by up to 50%.The magic ingredient is Vitamin A.

Great for mature skin that needs perking up – and for optimum effect use for six months. A light creamy, silky serum that sinks into the skin, it softens and freshens right from day one. A brand your can trust to do what it says. Rating 8/10. £19.75 30ml

VITAL C Hydrating A C E SERUM from Image Skincare

An advanced polypeptide anti-oxidant formula of the three most important vitamins to protect skin from ageing A,C, E as well as the antioxidant super oxide dimutase. Suitable for all skin types but principally targeted at environmentally damaged and sensitive rosacea-prone skin.

This serum has a great orange smell and soaks into the skin with an instant tightening and rejunveating effect. Apply to skin after cleaning night and morning. The skin feels taut and radiant. This is a very light serum – non-greasy or oily. Fantastic – we loved it. Rating 9/10. £44 for 14.8ml www.skingeeks.co.uk

Shocking state of UK’s dental hygiene revealed

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The British Dental Health Foundation and Oral-B research shows that people don’t understand that a smile can actually be a barometer of your overall wellbeing, and that a good oral care routine has potential health benefits beyond just your teeth and gums.

Dr Nigel Carter, Chief Executive of the British Dental Health Foundation says: ‘Oral health is often seen as of secondary importance to general health – around 85% of people are completely unaware of the link between the health of the mouth and the health of the body. This year’s National Smile Month Theme: Teeth4Life will highlight the importance of maintaining and looking after the health your teeth throughout life.’

Luckily as summer approaches 60% of Brits understand that fad diets like the Maple Syrup Diet are going to play havoc with their smiles. However most people mistakenly think that red wine is worse for their teeth than white- incorrect! Research shows that red wine can actually ward off tooth decay* (due to the chemicals in it that stop harmful bacteria sticking to teeth), and it is in fact white wines like Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay that can be the most staining to teeth, as they actually wear away the protective enamel**.

Shockingly a third of us think that nothing serious will happen to us if we neglect our gums, whereas research has linked gum disease to potential risk of heart disease, diabetes, strokes, premature births, low birth-weight babies, and even infertility. Definitely time for Brits to brush up on their oral health knowledge!

The survey, conducted to highlight National Smile month this May, shows that people think you should only brush your teeth for around 30 seconds, when dentists recommend a minimum of 2 minutes every morning and evening.

Celebrity dentist and Oral-B ambassador Dr Phil Stemmer recommends using a power brush to ensure his patients brush for the optimum 2 minutes of time: “It is shocking that the National Smile Month research has revealed that people are only brushing their teeth for 30 seconds. To really ensure you brush for long enough, try the Oral-B PC Triumph 5000 with SmartGuide which not only times how long you brush your teeth for but also encourages better brushing habits. The SmartGuide display helps to prevent common problems like brushing too hard, not brushing for long enough and unequal brushing.”

The National Smile Month survey also reveals that over a quarter of people in the UK (26%) are damaging their teeth by brushing just after breakfast, while an astonishing 38% assume they should brush their teeth after every single meal for optimum oral health. Dr Phil Stemmer recommends brushing before eating,: “The enamel that coats the outer layer of our teeth is temporarily softened by acidic foods, such as fruit”, he explains.“Brush first thing in the morning before breakfast- and once more in evening at least half an hour after eating.”

In the football smile stakes, Cheryl Cole was voted the pearly queen, having the best celebrity WAG smile, whereas Rooney’s ankle injury has clearly left him down in the mouth – he has been voted the footballer with the worst smile, even compared to famously buck-toothed Ronaldinho.

This year’s National Smile Month campaign slogan, ‘Teeth4Life’, highlights the importance of looking after your teeth and maintaining them for life, whilst also stressing that a healthy diet can improve the quality of your life. Oral – B are the experts in oral care and as the number one brand recommended by UK dentists, passionately believe in helping the nation to brush up on their oral hygiene for healthier, confident smiles.

More information on the survey

The Oral-B National Smile Month Survey was conducted across ten of the UK’s largest cities, across males and females aged 18-60+Oral-B power toothbrushes are available from selected larger supermarkets, department stores and chemists. For additional information regarding Oral-B’s wide range of oral care products please visit www.oralb.com/uk
Oral-B Triumph 5000 with SmartGuide

The new sleeker, more ergonomic Oral–B Triumph 5000 is the next generation in premium rechargeable toothbrushes designed to fight plaque and be gentle on gums. This revolutionary toothbrush combines Oral-B’s most clinically advanced 3D cleaning and whitening technology.

The Triumph 5000 works by using microchips embedded in the brush head and handle to monitor brushing activity and provide real-time guidance of your oral care routine via SmartGuide™ Wireless which communicates with the digital display. The display guides you through your brushing technique to encourage better brushing habits and helps prevent common problems such as brushing too hard, unequal brushing and not brushing for long enough (ensuring the all important two minutes of brushing time is reached). It comes complete with 4 customised brushing modes, including massage and polish; it is like having a dental supervisor in the bathroom with you every time you brush.

RRP £160.00

* Research from Pavia University, Italy 2010
**Journal of Nutrition, 2009Research looking at systemic links between oral health and overall health:

HEART

• December 2008 – Italian/UK study in FASEB Journal reveals good oral healthcare and treatment for gum disease can prevent the bacteria that cause thickening of the arteries. (Piconi, Trabattoni et al, FASEB Journal Dec 08)

• September 2008 – scientists present the Society of General Microbiology’s autumn meeting with two new studies linking between gum disease and heart disease.

o A University of Bristol-led presentation shows how the 700 million oral bacteria present a clear risk, with harmful bacteria bonding to protect against the immune system or antibiotics, and increasing chances of heart disease even in the case of fit healthy people (Jenkinson, Kerrigan et al – Uni Bristol/RCS Dublin Sep 08)

o A study presented by University of Otago’s Professor Greg Seymour finds that oral bacteria causes atherosclerosis, or ‘furring’ of the arteries, as oral bacteria’s similarity to proteins which cause arteries to fur confuses the immune system.

Jan 2006 – PERICAR trial, a collaboration between Australia’s Sydney Dental Hospital and Royal North Shore Hospital and Norway’s University of Oslo. Strong evidence that treating gum disease can reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke. Inflammation in the mouth has a measurable effect in the bloodstream and the rest of the body. Once the gum infection was eradicated the risk of heart attacks and future blood clots was reduced. (Taylor, Tofler et al; Journal of Dental Research, January 2006)

DIABETES

• November 2008 – Columbia University (USA) publishes evidence of links from periodontal disease to type 2 diabetes. Of 9,000 participants in the study 800 developed diabetes. Those with high levels of periodontal disease were twice as likely to develop diabetes.(Demmer, Desvarieux et al, Diabetes Care)

• July 2007 – The Department of Periodontology at the University of Copenhagen (Denmark) finds link between gum disease and pre-diabetes, often a precursor to type-2 diabetes. Dr. Carla Pontes Andersen said: “The gum inflammation seen in periodontitis can allow bacteria and inflammatory substances from the dental structures to enter the bloodstream. These processes seem to affect blood sugar control.” (Pontes Anderson, Flyybjerg et al; Journal of Periodontology)

PREMATURE BIRTHS

December 2008 – researchers in Finland question 328 women on oral health and pregnancy, those who needed urgent dental treatment, suggesting poor oral health, were 2.5 times more likely to miscarry. (Heimonen et al, Blackwell Publishing July 2007 – Faculty of Dentistry at the University of Chile finds link between gum disease and premature births. One in three women at risk of premature labour presented with gum disease bacteria in their amniotic fluid, as well as their mouth.
o Amniotic fluid surrounds an unborn baby. Scientists believe that any disruption to this fluid could pose a danger to both mother and baby, especially as hormone changes in pregnant women expose a greater risk of gum disease. (Leon, Silva et al; Journal of Periodontolog

STROKES

• June 2006 – University of California scientists found that gum disease may contribute to clogged carotid arteries leading to an increased risk of a stroke. Blocked carotid arteries were much more common in people who had gum disease. (Chung, Friedlander et al, General Session & Exhibition of the International Association for Dental Research)

INFERTILITY

February 2009 – Pilot study on 56 men by Hebrew University Hadassah School of Dental Medicine and Bikur Holim Hospital-based scientists in Israel suggests links between gum disease and low sperm counts.

About the British Dental Foundation

The British Dental Health Foundation is an independent charity that along with its global arm, the International Dental Health Foundation, is dedicated to improving the oral health of the public by providing free and impartial dental advice, by running educational campaigns like National Smile Month and by informing and influencing the public, profession and government on issues such as mouth cancer awareness and water fluoridation.

Oral-B (P&G) is proud to be a Platinum supporter of National Smile Month 2009. The company is committed to supporting patient education and produces free literature covering manual & power brushes as well as floss usage. We are committed to working with the British dental Health foundation to improve oral health.

Babyboomer pressures overshadow the good life

 

Rather than enjoying later life, Britain’s babyboomers are taking on more and more worries, reveals a new study by Astral, the all over hydrating body moisturiser, loved and used by millions of British women.

Astral_Face_on_new_label.jpgWith female babyboomers set to live longer, up to 85 years on average, life and work worries are now overshadowing their prime. According to Astral’s new report , health concerns (50%) topped the list of worries, followed by family woes such as children and ageing (40%), then finance (30%) followed by the state of the world (25%).

‘The Change’ tops all health concerns….The menopause was linked to the majority of women’s health worries and confidence issues, as they struggled to handle its symptoms and the impact on their home and extended work lives. Almost half (45%) of the study said they suffered a lack of energy, with three quarters (75%) feeling physically tired and 45% only managing to do essential tasks, but not having enough energy for anything else, thanks to the menopause.

Embarrassing problems associated with the ‘change’ also presented further hurdles, with hot flushes affecting almost everyone (90%), and digestive upsets effecting 85% on a regular basis. Irritability was another factor that women found hard to control and impacted their extended working lives, with 60% seeing a distinct downturn in their mood thanks to the menopause.

Beautiful, youthful skin plays a large part in feeling beautiful. Almost all of the women in the Astral study (95%) said the menopause had affected their skin, with half (45%) claiming dry skin was a real problem and 35% highlighting their face and body lacked lustre, with 30% seeing a loss in suppleness and increased dryness.

Astral on trial….
Study respondents going through ‘the change’ were asked to test Astral over a three week period to see how effective it was as an all over body moisturiser. Testers used Astral once or twice a day. Final study results revealed that 95% of users found Astral very effective in actually preventing dry skin, with 85% saying they found the cream soothing, hydrating and great at helping to maintain skin moisture balance.

85% of the study correspondents found Astral more effective than their usual moisturiser. As a result trialists said they were set to continue to use Astral as a daily, hydrating body moisturiser.

Commenting on this latest trial news from Astral, Dr Trisha Macnair notes: “The menopause really plays havoc with women’s skin and yet often goes unmentioned versus more dramatic symptoms. Falling oestrogen levels, which affect the production of collagen, is responsible for helping skin, hair and nails to retain their elasticity. As a result, thanks to ‘the change’, oestrogen levels fall and skin starts to sag, get dry and be less supple.

“The truth, as revealed in this report, is that when a woman’s facial skin is in good condition she feels more confident and more attractive, which can be a real boon when other parts of her body are potentially making her feel out of control. If the skin on her body is in good condition then she feels not only more confident, but also feels better because she is more comfortable.

“So what is needed is a moisturiser that can help menopausal women take control of their skin’s condition. Astral, is a very effective solution for menopausal women because it is so nourishing and hydrating as a cream. It’s secret for me lies with the product’s formulation which includes lanolin, a rich natural moisturising ingredient which binds water to itself locking in moisture, while still allowing the skin to breathe, as well as being naturally hypoallergenic and easily absorbed.”

About Astral

Astral cream was first launched in 1950 and for more than half a decade since millions of women have used this all-over face and body moisturiser, giving generations of women soft skin thanks to Astral’s rich formulation. The formulation of the cream is the same today as it was when it launched.

Astral is full of delicately balanced and nourishing ingredients which make it a perfect all-over moisturiser. It can be used every day to keep skin soft and supple and it can even tackle the driest skin on elbows and feet. Thanks to its versatility, Astral can also be used as an after-sun lotion and make-up remover.

Astral is available in Boots, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Superdrug, Tesco and all good chemists. It comes in three pot sizes: 50ml – ‘the handbag pot’, which is perfect for on-the-go indulgence (£1.49); 200ml – with all the different uses of Astral, many women get a few 200ml pots and keep one by the bed, one in the bathroom, one by the kitchen sink or any place where Astral might come in handy (£4.19); 500ml – Astral prides itself on being a premium quality product with a great value price (£7.99). With the 500ml pot women get even more for their money.

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Hollywood legend Nick Nolte finally bins his tobacco habit

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Hollywood actor Nick Nolte has binned his bad smoking habit with the help of an “electronic” cigarette.

NN.jpgNick who has had more than his fair share of negative publicity over the years.
Who can forget his mad haired police mug-shot below following his 2002 arrest on suspicion of drink driving?
When blood tests revealed the presence of the date rape drug GHB, Nolte, who starred alongside Eddie Murphy in 48 Hours back in 1982, allegedly said, “I’ve been taking it for four years and I’ve never been raped yet.”

Now though it seems the 69 year old has put his well publicised battles with drink and drugs firmly behind him – and he’s even managed to kick tobacco into touch after taking up a SmokeStik.

Nolte, voted the ‘Sexiest Man Alive’ by People magazine in 1992, was given a SmokeStik, the world’s leading brand of electronic cigarette, six months ago and yesterday admitted it had helped him to quit the cigs.

In a statement Nolte said: “Using Smokestik is a real good way to get off the cigarette. If you have a relapse with regular cigarettes, immediately pick up the Smokestik.”

SmokeStik’s are battery operated devices which give smokers a nicotine hit without the need for harmful tobacco. They’ve been eagerly adopted by big name celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Lindsay Lohan, and Paris Hilton.

A spokesman said: “We are thrilled that Nick Nolte has become the latest celebrity to quit smoking thanks to SmokeStik.”

SmokeStiks release only an odourless vapour and are believed to be relatively healthy compared to traditional tobacco based cigarettes.

They are not restricted by the ban on smoking in public places and can be enjoyed in bars and restaurants – a factor which has led to many US smokers ditching tobacco in their favour.

The spokesman confirmed the product was selling well since its launch last year.

For more information please visit www.SmokeStikUSA.com

How to make the hot red dress work for you this summer!

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This season it’s all about Red, as Marks & Spencer team up with Kellogg’s to give you the hottest dress of the summer.

We all want to get the perfect dress for the season, the one which makes us feel and look great and now some bright sparks in the buying industry have decided to give you what you have been after. Marks & Spencer has signed a deal with cereal giant Kellogg’s to create the first ever Special K red dress to go on sale to the general public.

That’s right, this stunning dress is now available in M&S stores and online. Launched last week the dress allows you to be your very own Special K girl. Special K, is famous for its iconic advertising featuring the ‘Special K girl’ dressed in red and lucky for you we have celebrity Stylist Zoe Lem and the Head Buyer at M&S Lottie Tarpey at hand to give you some tops tips on how to wear the dress and make sure you look fabulous in it this summer.

Greg Peterson, managing director, Kellogg’s UK Marketing & Sales, explained: “Special K consumers have been asking us for years where they can buy the dresses featured in our advertising and this partnership with M&S has given us the opportunity to finally be able to offer women the chance to do so.

A spokesperson from M&S said: “The M&S red dress is an extremely versatile summer essential which can be dressed up or down and is sure to flatter any figure. The Special K dress has become a fashion icon in its own right so we are proud to be the first retailer to offer this famous dress to customers.”

Click here to hear Zoe Lem and Lottie Tarpey on how to make the Red Dress work for you.

How to Make the Red Dress Work for You

For more information visit www.myspecialk.co.uk

*The Special K red dress at M&S is priced at £19.50 and will be available at selected stores throughout the UK and online.

Why eating a healthy breakfast saves time and money

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British mums do the equivalent of three hours work every day before they’ve even left home for the office, new research by Hovis bread shows. From getting the kids dressed to making the beds there’s a lot of time and energy lost to basic household duties which means something usually have to give way.

Although breakfast is often regarded as the most important meal of the day, many mums are forced to skip it if they want to get everything done and still get to work on time. Fortunately there’s an easy way to get a healthy, nutritious and filling breakfast into your stomach which helps you feel fuller for longer.

Fronted by World Olympic Champion Victoria Pendleton, Hovis Wholemeal Breakfast Week (April 12th-19th) encourages you to try wholemeal bread for breakfast. An equally healthy alternative to cereal, wholemeal bread is high in fibre which helps keep you feel fuller for longer. Would you prefer your breakfast to feature fresh-cooked eggs and mushrooms on toast? Or does the sound of cream cheese, walnuts and honey take your fancy?

Victoria has a clear message to parents, “A substantial breakfast is a vital part of my training so I make sure I never skip it. I can’t perform at my best either physically or mentally without a good start to the day and I would certainly not be able to achieve my long term training goals. It is easy to forget that rushing around after the family can be a workout in itself. The temptation when working to a busy schedule is to neglect yourself, but my advice would be to make the time for a healthy and filling breakfast…”

Watch this video to get nutritionist Lindsey Ormond’s take on wholemeal bread and get five great recipes to help keep you powered through to lunch with less temptation to snack unhealthily!

Video with nutritionist Linsey Ormond on how to make a healthy breakfast

Sun is No1 cause of skin ageing, say cosmetic doctors

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London: As the nation prepares for summer, think twice before soaking up the sun or jumping on a sun bed to accelerate your tan as you could be one of the many people having to seek help from a cosmetic practitioner for their sun damaged skin. Despite the growing awareness of the dangers of sun exposure the message is still not getting through.

According to a new survey carried by Cosmetic News magazine at the launch the first Cosmetic News Expo conference and exhibition, 55% of cosmetic doctors cite sun damage as the most significant cause of ageing in the patients they see and a staggering 84% believe that sun beds should be banned. And while prevention is better than cure, 88% of women and 61% of men are having non-surgical injectable treatments to fill in lines and wrinkles, lift the face and hold back the years, but the frozen look is out with the majority of doctors predicting that the biggest trend for 2010 is a more natural look.

Survey Highlights:

· The most popular cosmetic treatment for women is botulinum toxin injections such as BotoxÒ/VistabelÒ and DysportÒ/AzzalureÒ (47%) followed by dermal fillers (31%) and Sculptra (10%). Botulinum toxin was also the most popular treatment for men (47%) followed by dermal fillers (14%) and laser hair removal (9%). Significantly 89% of doctors would not use permanent fillers because they deem them too risky and 39% did not think that mesotherapy works.

· 76% of cosmetic doctors were opposed to remote prescribing to nurses or beauty therapists stating that the practice was too risky with unexamined patients being treated.

· 71% think that newly launched IHAS Shared Regulation scheme will work.

· 29% of doctors surveyed stated that improved dermal fillers to treat the face were the biggest innovation in aesthetic medicine over the last five years and Sculptra (26%) and Juvederm Ultra (17%) were selected as the two treatments that had revolutionised cosmetic practices

· 84% believed sun beds should be banned and 55% cited sun damage as the most significant cause of ageing, followed by smoking (33%) and genetics (9%)

· The biggest trend in aesthetics for 2010 was predicted to be the natural look with treatments that stimulate natural collagen production.

· The age group having the most non-surgical cosmetic treatments was 40-50 years olds with botulinum toxin injections being the most popular procedure for mum’s post pregnancy followed by weight reducing treatments such as radio frequency and VASER Lipo (15%)

· 50% of doctors currently use non-surgical radio-frequency treatments for body contouring with 7% using VASER Lipo. 29% believed that VASER was the biggest innovation in medical aesthetics in the last five years.

· Laser hair removal was the most popular laser treatment for patients (50%)

· 86% of cosmetic doctors have their own private clinics but 59% are still working within the NHS.

Dr Patrick Bowler, Co Founder and Fellow of the British Association of Cosmetic Doctors says:

“Non surgical treatments are the most popular and fastest growing area in aesthetics. This survey shows no real surprises but it is pleasing to note the trend for natural looks rather than the overdone, overcooked appearances of the last decade. Subtle use of botulinum toxins and the latest fillers is the way forward. However I was rather disturbed that 24% of doctors thought it OK to remote prescribe to nurses and beauticians. There seem to be a significant number of doctors treading a dangerous path in the pursuit of commercialism.”

The survey was carried out in association with the British Association of Cosmetic Doctors (BACD) and Cosmetic News readers.

UK health warning over French breast implant

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Women who have had the best-selling silicone implant made by a French firm are being warned that their breasts may explode causing life-threatening illness.

The implants made by the French firm Poly Implant Prothese (PIP), are thought to be twice as likely to rupture as other implants and have been withdrawn from sale in France.

In the UK, the government’s Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency has also banned cosmetic surgeons from using them. The health watchdog warns that they could cause gangrene or toxic shock syndrome if they rupture.

In France it was discovered that the implants have been filled with a silicone gel with a composition different from that approved since 2001 and may not be safe.

The UK’s MHRA, said that patients who have had these implants should contact their surgeon.

Most of the implants made by PIP were exported, to an estimated 66 countries and were popular because they are cheaper than others on offer.

UK health experts warn of selenium diet deficiency

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London: An intake of 50 micrograms a day of selenium in addition to the usual dietary intake is required to maintain optimal selenium blood levels according to a new UK study.

Commenting on the study and the need for selenium in our diets, Dr Carrie Ruxton, independent nutrition advisor to the Health Supplements Information Service notes: “In the UK, intakes of selenium are low. Data from the 2006 UK Total Diet Study showed that the mean intake of selenium was 48-58 micrograms a day, which is below the UK recommended intake of 75 micrograms a day for men and 60 micrograms a day for women.

Similar findings emerged from the latest UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS) in which intakes of selenium fell below the Reference Nutrient Intake (RNI) in both adults and older children. Adult women overall achieved 72% of the RNI. while adult men achieved 74% of the RNI. Around half of adult women and older girls and a fifth of men and older boys had intakes below the Lower Reference Intake (LRNI). Such low intakes are associated with reduced blood levels of selenium and significantly increased risk of mortality in both Europe and the US.

In this new study, the aim was to evaluate the amount of selenium required to establish optimal blood levels of this essential nutrient. A randomized controlled trial was carried out in which 199 healthy men and women aged 50-64 years, living in the UK were divided into 6 groups and studied for 12 weeks. Four groups were given selenium enriched yeast tablets containing 50, 100 or 200 micrograms of selenium each day, or placebo tablets. The other two groups were given either selenium-enriched onion meals, providing 50 micrograms of selenium daily, or unenriched onion meals providing 4 micrograms selenium daily.

Blood levels of selenium increased in all the groups which consumed additional selenium from supplements or diet. There was a significant difference in blood levels of selenium between the supplement group and those taking the placebo tablet. However, there was no significant difference in blood levels between those consuming the enriched meals and those consuming the unenriched meals.

Moreover the blood levels of those taking the 50 microgram tablet increased by 28.3% while the blood level of those consuming the 50 microgram enriched onion diet increased by just 8.6%. This suggests that the selenium enriched diet was much less effective at increasing blood levels than the selenium supplement.

The study concluded that to establish optimal selenium status required the addition of a 50 microgram daily selenium supplement to the usual daily dietary intake of approximately 55 micrograms. These findings suggest that adequate selenium intakes are not being achieved in the UK by diet alone and that either a multi-nutrient or selenium supplement taken daily can help to ensure an optimal selenium status.
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RNI: Reference Nutrient Intake. The amount of a vitamin or mineral that is enough to ensure that the needs of nearly all the group are being met.
LRNI: Lower Reference Nutrient Intake. The amount of a vitamin or mineral considered to be sufficient for the few people in a group who have low needs. Most people will need more than the LRNI and if people consistently consume less they may be at risk of deficiency of that nutrient.

Free tickets to the Spirit of Summer Fair London

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London: Make a date in your diary for the Spirit of Summer Fair at London’s Olympia, 13-16 May 2010.

Get ready for summer by visiting the stylish boutique shopping event to find inspiration for summer living. With an array of carefully selected exhibitors, this event brings together a collection of the season’s ‘must-haves’, from accessories, fashion and alfresco living to gifts, gourmet food and wine.

We are giving 5 lucky readers the chance to win a pair of tickets to the Fair. To enter please give the correct answer to the following – in which UK town is the Spirit of Summer Fair being held:

(a) Birmingham
(b) Manchester
(c) London

Send your answer by email to readeroffer@elixirnews.com. This competition closes on 6 May 2010. No cash equivalent is offered and the Editor’s decision is final.

For more info visit www.spiritofsummerfair.co.uk
T: +44 (0)844 412 4623* (*Calls cost 10 pence per minute from BT landlines. Calls from mobiles and other networks may vary. Booking fee applies. Advance box office closes May 12, 2010.)

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Aspirin cuts breast cancer risks

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New York: Women who have completed treatment for early-stage breast cancer and who take aspirin have a nearly 50% reduced risk of breast cancer death and a similar reduction in the risk of metastasis. The findings are based on an analysis of data from the Nurse’s Health Study, a large, ongoing, prospective observational study.

“This is the first study to find that aspirin can significantly reduce the risk of cancer spread and death for women who have been treated for early-stage breast cancer,” said lead author Michelle Holmes, MD, DrPH, Harvard Medical School and Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts.

“If these findings are confirmed in other clinical trials, taking aspirin may become another simple, low-cost, and relatively safe tool to help women with breast cancer live longer, healthier lives.”

Investigators report it is not yet clear how aspirin affects cancer cells, but they speculate it decreases the risk of cancer metastasis by reducing inflammation, which is closely associated with cancer development. Prior studies have also suggested that aspirin inhibits cancer spread: One study found that people with colon cancer who took aspirin lived longer than those who did not, and laboratory studies have also shown that aspirin inhibited the growth and invasiveness of breast cancer cells.

In this analysis, which was published online in an issue of the Journal of Clinical Oncology, researchers evaluated data from the Nurses’ Health Study, which included 4,164 female nurses in the United States (aged 30-55 years in 1976) who were diagnosed with stage I, II, or III breast cancer between 1976 and 2002 and were followed through June 2006.

They examined patients’ use of aspirin for 1 or more years after a breast cancer diagnosis (when patients would have completed treatment such as surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy) and the frequency of metastasis and breast cancer death.

The authors emphasised that patients undergoing active treatment should not take aspirin due to potential interactions that can increase certain side effects.

A total of 400 women experienced metastasis, and 341 of these died of breast cancer. Women who took aspirin 2 to 5 days per week had a 60% reduced risk of metastasis and a 71% lower risk of breast cancer death. Those who took aspirin 6 or 7 days a week had a 43% reduced risk of metastasis and a 64% lower risk of breast cancer death. The risk of breast cancer metastasis and mortality did not differ between women who did not take aspirin and those who took aspirin once a week.

Researchers also found that women who took non-aspirin non-steroidal inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) 6 or 7 days a week also had a reduced risk of breast cancer death (a 48% reduction), but women who took NSAIDS less frequently and those who used acetaminophen did not experience such a benefit.

“Several studies have suggested that aspirin may have beneficial effects against cancer because of its anti-inflammatory effects. But aspirin can cause stomach bleeding and is not for everyone. These are promising findings, and if they are confirmed in additional clinical trials, physicians may be able to regularly recommend aspirin to their breast cancer patients to reduce risk of cancer spread and mortality,” said breast cancer expert Lori Pierce, MD, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan.

While the investigators did not collect data on aspirin dose, they noted that women who took aspirin regularly most likely took it for heart disease prevention; the typical dose for that purpose is 81 mg/day.

SOURCE: Journal of Clinical Oncology

Win £80 of leisure vouchers from Kooga Energy

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Give yourself a lift. Revitalise with free leisure vouchers and Red Kooga Natural Energy Release drink.

From a stressful day at work, to looking after a busy household, today’s demanding lifestyles leave many women wishing for a few extra hours in the day. With such tiring routines, many women look for a supplement that gives a natural energy release but is also gentle enough to take every day.

Revitalise by giving yourself a lift with the natural power of the New Red Kooga range formulated with only the finest Korean Panax ginseng, a herb used in the orient for centuries to promote energy, vitality and maintain mental alertness.

Ideal for busy women with hectic lifestyles, Red Kooga’s natural ginseng range will keep both your mind and body on top form and ready for anything.

The revitalise kit contains Red Kooga Natural Release ginseng supplements and a Filofax organiser to help you get more out of the day. Once you’ve freed up those precious minutes why not relax with the chill-out compilation CD whilst deciding where to spend your £80 worth of leisure vouchers!

To win the £80 of Leisure vouchers (which can be spent online at www.leisurevouchers.co.uk, a Filofax organiser, a chill out compilation CD and two packs of Red Kooga Natural Energy Release just answer the following question

What is ginseng?

(a) A herb
(b) A drug
(c) A fruit

Please send your answer and contact details to readeroffer@elixirnews.com – please put Kooga in the email header. This competition closes on 4 April 2010. Please note that the Editor’s decision is final and no cash equivalent is offered.

For more information visit www.redkooga.co.uk

Dr Tracy Mountford – Non Surgical Cosmetics – London & Buckinghamshire

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Dr Tracy Mountford is the Medical Director of The Cosmetic Skin Clinic and has over 20 years experience in facial rejuvenation techniques.

Having qualified in London in 1985 she initially worked as an anaesthetist before training as a Cosmetic Medical Practitioner.

She has full registration with the GMC (no 3085451) and MPS, and is a founder member of the BACD (British Association of Cosmetic Doctors).

Dr Mountford is highly regarded by her peers and is considered a key opinion leader in the ever expanding field of non-surgical aesthetic medicine.

She is often quoted in the national media including: The Times, The Telegraph, The Daily Mail, Tatler, Grazia, Woman & Home, & Woman’s Own to name but a few. She also regularly appears on television including – BBC Breakfast, GMTV, ITV ‘This Morning’, 10 Years Younger: The Challenge, UK Living’s ‘The Truth About Beauty’, & carried out many radio interviews which have been broadcast throughout the country. She is frequently asked to present at conferences & workshops at key industry events across the UK.
More about her clinic at www.cosmeticskinclinic.com T: + 44(0)1753 646 660

Iconic beauty – get the look with the new Boots No7 Limited Edition makeup range

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No 7, the trend-setting and quality beauty range from Boots, has recreated seven decades of beauty – and brought it bang up to date with a limited edition makeup range.

Here is how to get the look:


Celebrity makeup artist Lisa Eldrige worked with No 7

From the 40s to today, Boots has come up with seven different makeup ranges to recreate the look. The Limited Edition range, has brought the various trends bang up to date with the input of creative director and make-up artist Lisa Eldrige. It goes in the shops from the beginning of May.

So whatever is your favourite era here is how to get the look with the latest make-up technology:

FABULOUS ’40s

Inspired by the classic Hollywood starlets of the day, this style has as much allure and glamour today as it did then and is a classic look we can all master.

Lisa explains how to achieve it:

Eyes
“I used the lightest shade from the No7 1940s ‘Fabulous 40’s’ Eye Shadow Trio (£9.75) all over the lid as a base and then the mid-brown shade to define the socket line, blended well. To complete the eyes I used the darkest brown shade with a damp lining brush to line along the upper lash line and then with a softer dry brush, along the lower lashes.

After curling the lashes and using No7 Exteme length mascara (£12.50) in black, the brows were softly pencilled with No7 Precision Brow Pencil (£10.50) to give delicate shape and exaggerated arch, which ws typical of the era.

Cheeks

No7 Natural Blush Cheek Colour (£9.25) in Soft Damson was gently buffed onto the cheeks to create a healthy dose of colour. A pink-based blusher was chosen to balance the strong red lip.

Judy Garland

Lips

The lips were first strained with No7 Stay Perfect Lipstick (£10.25 in Cherry applied with a lip brush. Next the lips were lined with No7 Perfect Lips Pencil(£7.75) to create a well-defined look and to help the lipstick last. To complete the look, lips were blotted and No7 1940s lipgloss (£6.75) in Judy was added, mainly concentrating on the centre of the bottom lip to add volume.”

FLIRTY 50s

This look was created to be reminiscent of the technicolour era of feminine fashion and flirty colour.

Lisa explains how to achieve it:

Eyes

“A block of the brightest blue shade in the No7 1950s ‘Fabulous 50s’ Eye Shadow Trio (£9.75) was used all over the lid, blending up and over the socket line and fading towards the brow. The lighter duck egg blue shade was used at the inner corner and underneath the eye along the lower lashes.

Using No7 Amazing Eyes Liquid Liner (£9) in black, the eyes were lined all along the upper lid becoming thicker towards the outer corners. It was lifted up at the outer corner to create an elongated flick.

The eyelashes were curled and lots of No7 Extravagant Lashes Mascara (£12.50) in black was added. More mascara was added at the outer corners to lift and further emphasis the ‘kitten’ eyeliner and applied lightly on the lower lashes. Brows were pencilled into a definite shape.

Cheeks

The cheeks were given a rosy flush of pink using No7Mineral Perfection Blusher (£9.25) which I buffed on well with a blusher brush.

Marilyn Monroe

Lips

A small amount of No7 Moisture Drench Lipstick (£10.25) in Pink Crush was applied to the lips to create a stain using a lip brush. Lips were then blotted and No7 1950s Lipgloss (£6.75) in Marilyn added to create shine and volume.”

SWINGING 60s

Inspired by the great femine icons of the decade – Twiggy, Jean Shrimpton and the graphic black and white photographs of David Bailey. This is Lisa’s favourite look of all the decades.

Lisa explains how to achieve it:

Eyes

“This look is all about the eyes. The white shadow from the No7 1960s Eye Trio, ‘Swinging 60s'(£9.75) was brushed all over the lid from lash to brow. White was then patted onto the lid area with a sponge applicator to add a more opaque coverage in this area.

No7 Amazing Eyes Liquid Liner (£9) in Black was applied thickly, close to the upper lashes. The line was thickened up towards the outer corner and extended up and out. At the inner corner the line was thinned out to a slim point extending towards the nose. The same liquid liner was also applied along the lower lashes in a line, which tapered off at both ends to a thin and elegant point.

At the socket line the liner was used to mark the socket ara extending at each corner to match the liner. Next, the black eye shade from the No7 1960s Eye Trio was used with a small damp brush to thicken and slightly soften the socket line. Upper and lower lashes were then coated in No7 Extreme Length Mascara (£12.25) in Black and brows were left naturally brushed and groomed.

Cheeks

No7 Brush Tint Cream Blush (£10.25) in Rosebud was applied with fingertips to the applies of the cheeks for a soft and pretty flush.

Dusty Springfield

Lips

Lips were dabbed with a tiny amount of No7 Instant Radiance Concealer (£13.75) to pale down the natural colour and then a generous amount of No7 1960s Lipgloss (£6.75) in Dusty was applied.

SUPREME ’70s

Inspired by the new-age, bohemian ’70s, this look fits well with the current look for pastels

Lisa explains how to achieve it:

Eyes

“The eyes feature a pretty kaleidescope of colours from the No7 ‘Supreme 70s’ Eye Shadow Trio (£9.75). The pinky lilac shade was applied all over the lid up to the socket line. Using the smoky eyeliner brush, the lavender shade was blended into the inner corner of the eye and taken all the way along the lower lash line.

The delicate greeny/blue shade was then buffed into the outer corner of the upper lid and taken into the socket line. This colour was then softly blended up towards the brow.

The lashes were curled and No7 Dream Lash Mascara (£12.50) was applied. Brows were softly powdered with No7 Stay Perfect Eye Shadow(£8) in Truffle for a natural finish.

Cheeks

Cheeks were gently coloured by applying No7 Blush Tint Cream Blush (£10.25) in Rosebud with fingertips. No7 Skin Illuminator (£11) in Peach was then used across cheekbones to give the look a fresh modern update.

Lips

Lips were lightly coloured with No7 Moisture Drench Lipstick (£10.25)in Cameo and blotted. I then applied No7 1970s Lipgloss (£6.75) in Bianca liberally all over the lips using a lipbrush.”

ELECTRIC ’80s

Inspired by the music icons and nightclub scene of the 80’s. Follow Lisa’s lead on creating this club look.

Lisa explains how to achieve it:

Eyes

“The fierce blue shade from No7 1980s ‘Electric 80s’ Eye Trio (£9.75)was applied with a damp flat brush to lay down a strong layer of colour to the lids. Using a dry blending brush the blue was shaded and brought out and up towards the temples.

The bright orange shade was used at the inner corner and blended up towards the brow. Finally the line green shade was applied on the brow bone and taken in towards the orange shade. All the shades were buffed with a large blending brush.

No 7 Extravagant Lashes Mascara (£12.50) in black was added to the lashed and browns were pencilled and defined with No7 Precision Brow Pencil(£10.50).

Cheeks

Cheekbones were contoured using No7 Sunkissed Mosaic Bronzing Powder (£12.75) for a healthy glow that did not clash with the strong eye look.

Joan Collins

Lips

I went for a simple lip with this one to balance the look and keep it fresh and modern, applying No7 1980s Lipgloss (£6.75) in Joan over the lips.”

FEISTY ’90s

Inspired by the pared down look of the early nineties new minimalism.

Lisa explains how to achieve it:

Eyes

“The eyes were kept very simple with the peachy shade of the No7 1990s ‘Feisty 90s’ Eye Trio (£9.75) blended lightly all over the lid area up to the socket line. The lighter of the deeper shade was then used to create more depth and shading at the outer corner.

I buffed a small amount of No7 Amazing Eyes Pencil(£8) in black into the roots of the lashes for extra definition before the lashes were curled. I applied a minimal amount of No7 Lash 360 Mascara (£12.50) to lengthen and separate, without looking too heavy or clumpy, and combed through. Brows were also slicked into place with No7 Lash & Brow Perfector (£10).

Cheeks

I applied No7 Blush Tint Cream Blush (£10.25) in Blossom to the apples of the cheeks for a natural looking flush.

Jennifer Aniston

Lips

A slick of the pale peachy No7 19990s Lipgloss (£6.75) in Jennifer finished the look.”

THE NOUGHTIES

Purple was the most popular shade of the decade and smoky eyes the favourite look. This look encompasses both.

Lisa explains how to achieve it:

Eyes

“The eyes were done first to keep the skin clear of any drop down (always a good idea with a smokey eye look). The brighter purple shade from the No7 ’00s ‘The Noughties’ Eye Trio (£9.75) was used first all over the lid as a base. Next I used the deeper purple shade with a blending brush to create a deep socket line buffing and blending into the outer corner of te lid also.

No7 Amazing Eyes Pencil (£8) in black was used all around the eye close to the lashes and smudged well. The black pencil was then used in the inner rim of the eye top and bottom for more intensity. The brighter shade from the palette was then smudged along the lower lash line with the smoky eyeliner brush. Lots of No7 Extreme Length Mascara (£12) in black was used, concentrating mainly on the roots of the lashes.

Cheeks

No7 Natural Blush Cheek Colour (£9.25) in Soft Damson was Applied to the cheekbones and slightly onto the cheeks.

Lips

A touch of No7 Sheer Temptation Lipstick (£10) in Fasciante was applied with a lip brush as a base and then blotted. I then applied a thin layer of No7 ’00s’ Lipgloss (£6.76) in Agyness over the top, again with a lip brush.

Experts launch panel to put breakfast back on the family menu


It’s the most important meal of the day and, as of today, Britain has a group of experts which are committed to highlighting all the benefits of breakfast and encouraging people to make the most of this meal.

The new Breakfast Panel, launched recently, comprises academics, researchers, GPs, nutritionists and dieticians, all of whom are passionate about getting to the bottom of why breakfast is so important. Together they will undertake independent research, review other studies, inform, educate and comment on issues about breakfast, breakfast options and breakfast consumption.

The members of The Breakfast Panel are:

• Prof Ian Banks BSc Bch MB MSc PhD

• Prof Jeya Henry BSc MSc PhD

• Prof Chris Seal BSc PhD RNutr MIFST

• Sara Stanner BSc(Hons) MSc RPHNutr

• Dr Chris Steele MBE MB ChB

Details of their biographies can be viewed on The Breakfast Panel’s web site – www.BreakfastPanel.org

A new research review from King’s College London has uncovered that:

• Breakfast usually contributes 9-36% of micronutrient intakes to the overall diet

• Skipping breakfast can lead to an unhealthy pattern of snacking on high-fat foods throughout the morning

• Eating breakfast has been linked with better test grades and school attendance in children and adolescents

• A bowl of wholegrain cereal is as good as a sports drink for recovery after exercise

• Having a wholesome breakfast such as cereal and milk is linked to eating less fat later in the day and maintaining a healthy weight

• By ensuring the consumption of recommended fibre levels this can lead to improved bowel performance – e.g. prebiotic effect

• Low GI/ high fibre breakfasts have been show to increase satiety and improve results in attention and memory tests

Breakfast cereal consumption has numerous health benefits to our wellbeing, with scientific research clearly demonstrating these health benefits. Many independent nutritionists and dieticians recommend the need for cereals as a vital dietary requirement.

Commenting further on how breakfast cereals can improve the quality of the diet, Dr Leonard, an independent advisor to the Breakfast Cereal Information Service notes: “Firstly, breakfast cereals make an important contribution to the intake of essential micronutrients, including vitamins such as B vitamins and vitamin E as well as minerals, such as magnesium and zinc. Consuming breakfast cereals with milk increases vitamin and mineral intake still further, particularly calcium, riboflavin and vitamin A.”

Dr Sanjay Prasad from the heart and stroke charity CORDA adds: “Cereals are also a valuable source of fibre. Specific products also contribute to the intake of essential fats from nuts, soluble fibre from oat-based cereals and the government’s 5-a-day fruit and vegetable target due to dried fruit content.

Dr Leonard continues: “Secondly, eating breakfast cereals is linked with improved diet quality throughout the day, not least at breakfast time itself. Evidence shows that people who eat breakfast cereals in the mornings tend to choose less fatty food, particularly snacks such as biscuits, cakes and sweets, later on. This influence on meal choice could be due to factors such as the fibre content of breakfast cereals. Fibre, of course, is associated with healthy bowel function. “

Dr Leonard adds: “Breakfast cereals are also lower in fat, including saturated fat, than most other types of breakfasts. Overall, breakfast cereal consumption is associated with eating less fat throughout the entire day, which has implications for cardiovascular health and maintenance of healthy weight. Indeed, evidence suggests that people who eat breakfast cereal are more likely to have a healthy BMI than those who don’t.

“Breakfast cereal consumption is also associated with better cognitive function, academic performance and school behaviour. Research shows that attendance at school breakfast clubs is linked with improved maths grades, while school absence and psychosocial problems are reduced.

“So in a nutshell breakfast cereals provide many health benefits and as a result, consumption of breakfast is vital and helps ensure a healthy start to the day. Unfortunately, skipping breakfast is all too common. Data shows that one in six children skips breakfast every day. Evidence shows that people who do not eat breakfast are less likely to meet their requirements for vitamin A, riboflavin, folic acid, vitamin B6, vitamin D and calcium. Skipping breakfast is also associated with weight gain and obesity and reduced mental function, including poor attention, memory and learning.

“Some recent information campaigns have looked at the whole issue of salt and sugar in breakfast cereals, and here the facts are very clear. Breakfast Cereals contribute less than 5% salt and sugar (some of which will be intrinsic sugars from dried fruit in many varieties) to the daily diet. Indeed, the FSA sodium target of 0.3g/100g for these products has practically been reached. By 2010, breakfast cereals will be just 0.02g/100g off this target. Evidence indicates that just 2.7% of UK sodium consumption comes from breakfast cereals. This is a direct result of the salt content of breakfast cereals being reduced by 44% since 1998.

“In terms of labelling, breakfast cereal manufacturers are also leading the way in clearer nutritional labelling via the use of Guideline Daily Amounts (GDAs). The EU project, FLABEL (Food Labelling to Advance Better Education for Life) has recently announced British breakfast cereals as the best food category in Europe for providing clear nutrition communication to consumers on packaging. The GDA labels that are now available on many cereal brands enable consumers to clearly note the levels of sugar and salt and other nutrients that are contained in a suggested portion. The label also allows people to make easy comparisons within the breakfast category and ensures they are able to monitor their nutrient intake and remain within the recommended 6g of salt as part of their daily diet. When looking at the nutritional composition of breakfast cereals it is important to look at portion size, not 100g samples. Recommended serving sizes are marked on the packs and vary from 30g to 45g. The National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS) shows that average consumption is 33g per day for men and 27g per day for women1, with 75% of this being wholegrain and high fibre varieties.”

Looking at the whole area of claims, Dr Leonard points out: “European Union legislation has set out two further routes for improving the information provided to consumers about the content of their food. The first route provides a statement of fact about the nutritional content of the food – what is or isn’t in the product, e.g., low in salt, low in sugar or a source of fibre. The second route enables companies to explain product health benefits via scientifically validated health claims, based on evidence approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). “

“The food industry welcomes these moves, and indeed has been working towards such changes for many years. Industry supports the harmonisation of the use of scientifically substantiated nutrition and health claims made on food products, enabling consumers to make informed and meaningful choices. EFSA has recently provided opinions on 523 health claims relating to food products. Again, industry welcomes the progress made in this area and looks forward to the next steps in the process, where Member States and the European Commission agree on a common EC-wide list of accepted claims. “

In summary Dr Leonard comments: “Breakfast should account for 20% of our Guideline Daily Amount intake of key nutrients and as a result is a daily must have. And contrary to other opinions, real facts demonstrate that the UK breakfast cereal category has clear nutritional labelling on pack, enabling the consumer to make well informed decisions over the contents of their food.”

Campaign to cut doctor waiting times for Alzheimer’s patients launches

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London: A new campaign, titled Memory Problems?,is launched today by ex GMTV presenter, Fiona Phillips today to help people recognise the early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and distinguish these from the normal changes that occur with ageing.

The aim is to reduce the time it currently takes from possible symptoms being noticed in a potential sufferer to them seeing their doctor.

While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, diagnosing and starting treatments to manage the disease early can slow its progression.

Research reveals the vast majority of Alzheimer’s disease patients are initially brought to the doctor by a family member (93%).

But shockingly the average time from symptoms being noticed to making an appointment with a doctor is 43 weeks. And almost half (45%) of patients discussing Alzheimer’s disease with their doctors for the first time are already experiencing moderate symptoms.

Delays in seeing a doctor were blamed by patients and carers on wanting to ensure symptoms weren’t temporary (38%), thinking symptoms were a normal part of ageing (36%) and, tellingly, resistance from the patients themselves (33%), according to the research by the IMPACT 2009 Global Alzheimer’s Awareness Study.

At the heart of the campaign is a website, www.aboutmemoryproblems.com , that will help provide practical advice and tools to help anyone concerned about memory problems in a loved one. It includes two innovative animations – short educational films that bring to life some of the symptoms and behaviours that are early indicators of the disease and so prompt people to consult their doctor.

“Diagnosing dementia is often difficult, particularly in the early stages, but this is when it is most important”, says Professor Roy Jones from The Research Institute for the Care of Older People (RICE) Centre, Royal United Hospital, Bath, UK. “If we can diagnose and start managing Alzheimer’s disease early, we can help patients and their families cope better with the situation. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this devastating disease, but there are treatments that may slow the progression of symptoms and these should be prescribed at the time of diagnosis.”

Fiona Phillips mother died from Alzheimer’s. Her father is now suffering from the disease.

Figures from www.alzheimers.org.uk

There are currently 700,000 people with dementia in the UK. Two thirds are women. It is estimated that there will be over a million people with dementia by 2025.

60,000 deaths a year are directly attributable to dementia. Delaying the onset of dementia by 5 years would reduce deaths directly attributable to dementia by 30,000 a year.
The financial cost of dementia to the UK is estimated as over £17 billion a year.

Sample Weleda’s new pomegrante anti-ageing handcream – 20 samples to be won

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London: ELIXIR has joined with hair and body care experts Weleda to offer you the opportunity to win a sample of its new anti-ageing hand cream made with organic pomegrante oil.

Weleda’s Pomegrante Regenerating Hand Cream (£7.95, 50ml) helps prevent hands from giving away your age by promoting cell renewal, moisture loss and free radicals which contribute to the premature formation of age spots.

Pomegrantes are a superfood – rich in vitamin C, B5, potassium and antioxidant polyphenols. This wonderful fruit is the key ingredient in Weleda’s first anti-ageing range, including a handcream, body oil and creams.

Fair trade farmers from the Karahacili in Turkey extract the organic pomegranate seeds by hand to produce the 100% organic oil.

The pomegranates are harvest at their peak in late September from organic farms on the fertile shores and mountainsides of Turkey, where more than 100,000 tons of pomegranates are grown each year.

One of the most pristine orchards is owned by Hakan Copur, a lively agricultural engineer. Copur must give special care to his plants to ensure the best-quality fruits. He pumps water up the mountain from the river below in order to irrigate his land. When the trees are heavy with fruit, residents gather with scissors and knives to carefully cut the fruits from the trees by hand.

The organic seeds are dried in a special facility and sent to Gustav Hees, an oil mill just 30 miles from the production facilities in southern Germany. Here the tiny seeds are cold pressed to release their valuable oil, which is then filtered.

The fine, rich oil is sent to production centers in Germany and Switzerland, where it is blended with other potent, natural ingredients for use in the new Pomegranate Regenerating Body Care.

Hands which show signs of ageing first are nourished and revitalized by this skin-renewing hand cream. It’s a powerful regenerating treatment with potent antioxidants and rich essential fatty acids that restore youthful beauty to your hands.

Organic pomegranate seed oil is naturally rich in antioxidants that protect your hands from free radical damage and promote skin renewal. Organic shea butter, a soothing emollient packed with essential fatty acids, renders your skin silky smooth and lavishly moisturized.

Dermatological tests show that our Pomegranate Regenerating Hand Cream increases the skin’s moisture level by 34%* and reduces roughness by 9.1%** in just four weeks.

This skin-renewing natural wonder nourishes the vibrant look and feel of your skin. Get a firm grip on your timeless beauty with soft, youthful hands.

The new Weleda pomegrante anti-ageing range is on sale at Waitrose and for more information go to www.weleda.co.uk or telephone 0115 944 822.

If you would like to win one of these new luxurious anti-ageing hand creams please email us with your answer to the following question:

Where are the pomegranates in the new Weleda anti-ageing skincare range grown:

(a) Australia
(b) Turkey
(c) Ireland

Send your answer with your name and address to us at readeroffer@elixirnews.com with “POM” in the email header. This competition closes on 15 April 2010. Please note that no cash equivalent is offered and the Editor’s decision is final.

* Forearm patch test vs. control. Skin moisture content measured by Corneometer, 27 subjects, between 18–61 years of age, four-week product application, twice daily.
** Forearm patch test vs. control. Skin roughness determined by FIOTS measurement, 30 subjects between 18–65 years of age, four-week product application, twice daily.
ThePrizeFinder – UK Competitions Code: ThePrizeFinder – UK Competitions

Free UK Stuff – Free Stuff site. If your looking for something for free, money off coupons or a chance to win big prizes, then this is the site for you.

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Discover how you can reverse your body clock – at exclusive London seminar

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London: Look younger, lose weight, feel great! Learn how at a new one-day intensive workshop from physique, weight-loss and anti-ageing experts, Tim Bean and Anne Laing.

Tim and Anne pictured above

“Tim and Anne have succeeded in changing the way their clients look, feel and live”Jemima Khan

Most of the symptoms we associate with ageing are actually nothing to do with getting old. And if over 80% of the diseases we die from are caused by our lifestyle choices, and are therefore actually preventable, then that leaves loads of things we can do every day to turn back our physiological clocks AND LOOK YOUNG, LOSE WEIGHT, FEEL GREAT!!

Tim Bean is presenting daily at The Vitality Show 18-21 March (win free tickets) and will be talking about The Neck Up Diet and Turn Back Your Age Clock

Leading international health experts, Tim Bean & Anne Laing are founders of The Institute of Physique Management (http://www.iopm.co.uk/), a private practice that takes prominent business people and celebrities through customised physique, lifestyle and wellness management programmes. They are authors of Turn Back your Age Clock – look and feel 20 years younger in only 8 weeks, Hamlyn (2009).

NEW FOR 2010 is their Look Young, Lose Weight, Feel Great 1 Day Intensive Workshop will take place in Central London on Saturday 24th April 2010

“If you’re serious about your health, your looks and living to a full and fruitful age, but aren’t paying attention to your lifestyle, you’ll pay the price,” warns Tim.

This NEW workshop will reveal the principles, secrets and strategies everyone can adopt to LOOK YOUNG, LOSE WEIGHT, FEEL GREAT!

The fast-moving, full-on day will break through the “Myth-information” we mistakenly accept as truth, and will reveal the real secrets behind the diet and exercise regimes their private celebrity clients use every day to stay looking slim, vibrant and alive!

What the Workshop will cover:

 Learn why it’s not aerobics that holds the secret to burning pounds of fat off fast! In fact in many cases it’s the worst thing you can do!

 Get the real deal on hormones and the roles they play as master computers of almost all your bodies functions, from mood, metabolism, libido, weight, fatigue, hunger and sleep through to memory, clarity and other functions of your brain!

 Discover why eating more will help you extend your lifespan – and carve off the inches – faster than eating less! In fact we now know that staying in the best shape and having more energy, better health and a more youthful and vibrant physique – is totally destroyed by most common diets!

 Find out the real reason why you shouldn’t snack between meals – and it’s not because you don’t need the calories!

 See how you can totally avoid the mid-afternoon munchies and charge through the day with amazing levels of energy!

 Learn why, contrary to popular opinion, the most important meal of the day isn’t breakfast!

 Work out exactly where your optimal training zone should be – and it isn’t based on your heart-rate! Wouldn’t it be great to walk into any health club, anywhere in the world, and know exactly what’s the best and safest routine to use?

 Master the skill of getting the perfect meal in any restaurant, by simply following our unique two-step plan. Imagine being served a beautiful dinner with the freshest most nutritious ingredients that you won’t feel guilty eating – without making a fuss or drawing attention to yourself! You’ll find out how to order “off menu”, and have even the grumpiest chefs love you for it!

 Learn why most of the diseases we associate with getting old…are nearly totally avoidable! And the easy, simple things you can do from tomorrow that will give you disease-proof protection.

 Discover why the fat gene is a complete and utter myth when it comes to being seriously overweight, and the reason why you never see cellulite on the legs of an athlete!

 You’ll also learn about our famous “Inside-out, Upside-Down & Back-to-front” principle for maintaining a beautiful and more youthful physique.

 There’ll be a wealth of take-home tips and ideas to easily incorporate into your daily schedule,

 PLUS we’ll guide you through our personal pick of top exercises to shape and tone your body to perfection!

Booking Info:

£179 per person, book via physique@iopm.co.uk or call +44 (0)20 8870 4557
24th April, 2010. 8.30am – 4.30pm

More information at:
www.iopm.co.uk/ www.turnbackyourage.com

25 sets of chef Ainsley Harriott’s new Amazing Grains range to be won

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London: One of Britain’s best loved TV chefs, Ainsley Harriott, has fast become the master of easy and accessible cuisine with his own delicious product range. After conquering cous cous and resurrecting risotto, he’s set for another success with the launch of his new Amazing Grains range…

Comprising five different products, the Amazing Grains range makes for an exciting new meal accompaniment for those who are tired of sticking with the same side dish. They’re quick and easy to make too. Whether it’s the Lentil Dahl, Creamy Vegetable Spelt, Chilli & Lime Quinoa & Basmati Rice or the Mediterranean Fusion and Wild Mushroom Bulgar Wheat options you plump for, all you need to do is empty the sachet of grains into a saucepan, add the seasoning and water, bring to the boil and simmer – it’s as simple as that.

This brings us to the all important health benefits… Each of the grains used within the range have specific health credentials but all of the 150g boxes contain less than 2% fat , and the entire range is free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives.

The Ainsley Harriott Amazing Grains range is available now from all major supermarkets nationwide. For information on all of Ainsley’s other product offerings visit: www.ainsley-harriott.co.uk

There are 25 sets of the entire Amazing Grains range (5 different gain combos) to be won! For your chance to win simply give the correct answer to the following question:

Ainsley Harriott Amazing Grains range contains:

(a) 50% fat
(b) Less than 2% fat
(c) 100% fat

Email your answer to readeroffer@elixirnews.com with your name and address – please put Ainsley in the email header.

Your name will be put into a draw to win one of the 25 sets. This competition closes on 12 April 2010. Please note that no cash equivalent is offered and the Editor’s decision is final.

Get fit and raise money for cancer

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London: Take part in the UK’s largest fitball fundraiser – in London’s Trafalgar Square on Thursday 18 March at 7.45am

Organiser, health services provider, Simplyhealth is appealing for 150 women to join in the UK’s largest outdoor fitball workout. Each woman will be provided with a free brightly coloured fitball and yoga mat and take part in a mass workout from 8.30am – 9.00am, led by celebrity trainer, Cat Dugdale (pictured above) – former trainer to Hollywood actor Kiefer Sutherland.

Simplyhealth donating £15,000 to Breast Cancer Campaign – the equivalent of £100 for every attendee.

The event is also timed to celebrate the launch of The Vitality Show – the UK’s largest celebration of health, beauty, fitness and wellbeing for women. The show runs between 18 – 21 March at Earls Court 2 in London.

Anyone wishing to take part should email their name(s) and contact details to fitball@pegasuspr.co.ukor see the event’s Facebook Group ‘Simplyhealth’s Fitball Fundraiser’ at Facebook

People can also stay in touch and follow updates about the event via Twitter @fitballevent

Participation is on a first come, first served basis with a maximum of 150 people. A secure place for bags and coats will be provided

About Simplyhealth

Previously known as HSA, BCWA, LHF, HealthSure and Totally Active, our family of health companies have joined together over the last 8 years to form Simplyhealth

At Simplyhealth, we have been providing healthcare solutions for nearly 140 years, dedicated to serving our customers through a variety of cash plans, dental plans, private medical insurance, healthcare trusts and mobility and living aids

Simplyhealth is a trading name of Simplyhealth Access, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority

As of December 2009, Simplyhealth had 1.3 million customers providing cover for some 2.3 million people

Simplyhealth is committed in its constitution to making a positive impact on its communities. Each year, we help health related charities and causes to the tune of at least £1million

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