ELIXIR > anti ageing

Tuscan White Bean Stew

Posted on October 21, 2017 by admin

This delicious and easy recipe is also very cheap. It serves 6.

A hearty, nutritious meal as temperatures drop!

For the croutons
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, quartered
• 1 slice whole-grain bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

The stew
• 2 cups dried cannellini or other white beans, picked over and rinsed, soaked overnight, and drained
• 6 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, coarsely chopped
• 3 carrots, peeled and coarsely chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary, plus 6 sprigs
• 1 1/2 cups vegetable stock or broth

Recipe
To make the croutons, heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large frying pan. Add the garlic and saute for 1 minute. Remove from the heat and let stand for 10 minutes to infuse the garlic flavor into the oil. Remove the garlic pieces and discard. Return the pan to medium heat. Add the bread cubes and saute, stirring frequently, until lightly browned, 3 to 5 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside.
In a soup pot over high heat, combine the white beans, water, 1/2 teaspoon of the salt and the bay leaf. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover partially and simmer until the beans are tender, 60 to 75 minutes. Drain the beans, reserving 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid. Discard the bay leaf. Place the cooked beans into a large bowl and save the cooking pot for later use.
In a small bowl, combine the reserved cooking liquid and 1/2 cup of the cooked beans. Mash with a fork to form a paste. Stir the bean paste into the cooked beans.
Return the cooking pot to the stove top and add the olive oil. Heat over medium-high heat. Stir in the onion and carrots and saute until the carrots are tender-crisp, 6 to 7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook until softened, about 1 minute. Stir in the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, the pepper, chopped rosemary, bean mixture and stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer until the stew is heated through, about 5 minutes.
Ladle the stew into warmed bowls and sprinkle with the croutons. Garnish each bowl with a rosemary sprig and serve immediately.

Competition – five pairs of luxurious leggings worth £49.99 each to be won.

Posted on November 6, 2016 by admin

These lovely leggings would make a perfect present and/or stocking filler.

Classy, sophisticated and alluring – these leggings will win you admiring glances, update your winter wardrobe and you will get compliments from other ladies – asking where you bought them!

They are a combination of sheer nylon and luxurious black velvet – a paisley pattern that flatters when worn with long line jackets and sweaters. With a superior look and feel they are not thick but still substantial enough to keep legs warn in winter. Dressy enough for parties and special occasions as well as for the office under a suit jacket.
They are available in three sizes currently only in black which stretch but have a bodycon fit:

Small (8-10 UK, leg length 90cm)

Medium (10-12, leg length 92cm)

Large (12-14, leg length 94cms)

All sizes cost £49.99 plus £3.00 first class postage and packing.

If you would like to win a pair of these lovely leggings please answer the simple question below. Please note that the Editor’s decision is final and no cash equivalent is being offered. The competition closes on Sunday 4 December 2016 at midnight. The winners will be notified by email within 48 hours of the competition closure.

If you can’t wait to see if have won a pair then you can order them now by visiting our shop.

More prizes here at The Prize Finder website

New – sophisticated and alluring leggings – £49.99 each

Posted on November 6, 2016 by admin

These lovely leggings would make a perfect present and/or stocking filler.

Classy, sophisticated and alluring – these legs will win you admiring glances, update your winter wardrobe and you will get compliments from other ladies – asking where you bought them!

Close up of the paisley pattern on sheer nylon

They are a combination of sheer nylon and luxurious velvet – a paisley pattern that flatters when worn with long line jackets and sweaters. With a superior look and feel they are not thick but still substantial enough to keep legs warn in winter. Dressy enough for parties and special occasions as well as for the office under a suit jacket.

They are available in three sizes currently only in black which stretch but have a bodycon fit:

Small (8-10 UK, leg length 90cm)

Medium (10-12, leg length 92cm)

Large (12-14, leg length 94cms)

All sizes cost £49.99 plus £3.00 first class postage and packing.

These leggings are currently only available in black, you are interested in buying in other colours such as blue and/or burgundy please contact us by email here

Subtle aesthetic treatments with big impact – Elixir tries the latest

Posted on October 16, 2016 by admin

As we age it goes without saying that we will lose the fresh bloom of youth. But that does not mean we have to let everything fall apart and then blame it on age and the inevitability of it all. That goes for looking after our general health with adequate amounts of exercise, a healthy diet and a fulfilling social life. This will help ensure that we not only look as good as we can for our age but also feel good.

But we must be kind to ourselves for not always doing what we should given the hectic pace of life in today’s multi-tasking digital global world! So what can you do when you look in the mirror and you have to admit you are looking a little world-weary? Well my advice is that you should not do anything extreme – that you may regret in a few years time. You only have to look around Harley Street – at some of the anti-ageing doctors themselves and the celebrity tabloids, to see the results of this unrealistic obsession with youth. Going under the knife is almost always an irreversible mistake where the unique beauty of a face and a personality is gone forever.

I am not against minimalist surgery – a little tweak here and there which can be undetectable. But nowadays there is a lot you do instead. I am a fan of non-invasive techniques that can do a lot to restore skin quality, particularly of the face. So what did I do a few months ago when I looked in the mirror and felt it was time to do something to give my skin a boost?

I turned to the experts who also favour minimalist non-invasive treatments and can demonstrate good results.

One of those is Dr Elizabeth Dancy of the Bijoux Medi Spa in Belgravia. Elizabeth was one of the founders of aesthetic rejuvenation treatments in the UK when she introduced mesotherapy – the vitamin-boosting skin injections favoured by Continental ladies.

Dr Elizabeth Dancy of the Bijoux Medi Spa in Belgravia, London

A few years ago I tried Dermaroller when it first launched at her clinic – this is a roller which delivers multi-punctures to the skin without making it bleed but damages the collagen, thereby encouraging it to repair and produce newer and younger skin. The skin goes a little red and it’s a bit painful I recall but this is gone by the following day and the process of renewal takes place over the next few weeks.

I really liked this treatment because the skin quality improves and any droop around the jowels lifts a little or a lot depending on age and lifestyle. But you do have to be realistic about what can be achieved.

My experience of this treatment was around five years ago as I am reminded by Faye Parke when I visit Bijoux to experience the latest form of this micro-needling treatment – eDermastamp. This costs £360 for an area such as the face. First of all a powerful topical numbing cream is applied 45 minutes before the treatment.

Electronic micro-needling is 50 times more effective than Dermeroller and suitable for most people. After the numbing cream is removed the eDermastamp treatment begins. Faye uses a small tip containing around 6 needles which penetrate 1.5mm into the skin causing minor trauma which stimulates what is known as ‘a blood red spot reaction”. It all happens very quickly which I think makes it less painful

To get an even better results hyaluronic acid is applied to the skin – this optimises results by refreshing and plumping the skin. The skin is only worked over once with the needle penetrating 50 times in each motion. As I’ve said this treatment is not without discomfort but on a scale of 1 to 10 Iwould say it was around 3 and I am sensitive. My skin was a little red and felt a bit hot but that was easily toned downwith a gel and some mineral make-up.

You can watch what happens in this video.

This is a treatment that I rave about if anyone asks me for a great anti-ageing result. Clearly it’s better to start this kind of thing when skin just starts to look a bit tired – and that can happen to some people earlier than others, particularly if they smoke and take too much sun. The results are immediate and carry on for months. A course of three treatments is recommended every few years.

In my case it lifted my face overall and got rid of some fine lines which has started so I will be back for some more!

Another real results treatment is ULTRAcel which combines three different technologies to target ageing in three different levels of the skin. It can be used on the face and the body. The company also have evidence that it works from clinical trials so no photoshopped images here!

I had my treatment at the Rita Rakus Clinic in Knightsbridge. Donna Ofsofke, a technical expert in this technology, who works for ULTRAcel, carried out my treatment

She has a great ‘bedside manner’ and put me at ease. I was a bit nervous as many years ago I had tried a laser treatment which had made by face feel and look as if it can been in a nuclear blast. And to literally add insult to injury my skin looked no better than it did before.

ULTRAcel is the first non-invasive treatment to combine these three technologies in one to safely target all skin layers. It happens in one simple procedure without any downtime, and its suitable for all skin-types and tones.

ULTRAcel works by harnessing three different anti-ageing technologies in one machine to rejuvenate the skin

The three technologies are radio frequency for the upper dermis, radio frequency micro-needling for the dermis and high intensity focused ultrasound for the SMAS – this are the muscles that are usually tightened by surgery in a full-facelift. They can be used along or in combination to achieve short and long-term results.

Find out more on this video:

Prior to the treatment a patient fills in an extensive medical questionnaire to verify their suitability for treatment. You may develop cold sores, for example, as it tends to trigger them in some people.

Donna carried out the radio frequency treatment first. This causes an immediate lift and is warming and pleasant. The ultra-sound which penetrates down to the SMAS is a little more painful. This is caused by the ultrasound energy penetrating deep below the surface of the skin and is a temporary positive sign that the collagen-building process has been initiated – I am told!

In my case I felt as I had been slapped for about a week afterwards but it was ony a dull ache. The anti-ageing effect is seen right away but the impact of the ultra-sound continues for 2 months after with people remarking on the firmness of my skin.

The general downward droop of my face, particularly my chin and neck, was reversed immediately and I looked fresher and younger. As I left the Hans Crescent clinic more than happy about what I had experienced.

The treatment starts from £795. This may seem expensive but its a lot cheaper and safer than a facelift. There is a list of clinics providing this treatment on the ULTRAcell website

Win the ultimate beautiful skin kit – Sheer Cover Minerals worth £50+

Posted on July 31, 2016 by admin

Sheer Cover are industry leaders in the art of flawless makeup.

The Sheer Cover Studio Introductory VIP Kit is worth over £50 – and we have one to give way in our competition – just answer a simple question in the form at the end of this article.

The kit contains everything you need for a great looking skin, including natural coverage of blemishes with special minerals:

Perfect Shade Mineral Foundation in medium
Sun-kissed Bronzing Mineral
Concealer & Brighten Trio in light/medium
Lengthening Mascara and lash extending fibres in black
3 makeup brushes

This kit also contains a guide with exclusive tips and tricks from Hollywood celebrity makeup artist Naomi Priestley – so you can get professional looking make up at home.

Sheer Cover Ingredients:

PERFECT SHADE® MINERAL FOUNDATION – Colour medium – 1.5g
All Shades: Boron Nitride, Bisabolol, Aspalathus Linearis Leaf Extract, Lauroyl Lysine, May Contain (+/-): Mica, Bismuth Oxychloride (CI 77163), Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), Zinc Oxide (CI 77947). Warnings: For external use only. When using this product keep out of eyes. Rinse with water to remove. Stop use and ask a doctor if rash or irritation develops and lasts. Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed get medical help.

SUN-KISSED BRONZING MINERALS – 2.5g
All Shades: Mica, Magnesium Stearate, Isopropyl Myristate, Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate, Dimethicone, Disoprorpyl Dimer Dilinoleate, Polymethyl Methacrylate, Nylon-12, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI77492, CI 77499). Warnings: For external use only. When using this product keep out of eyes. Rinse with water to remove. Stop use and ask a doctor if rash or irritation develops and lasts. Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed get medical help

CONCEAL & BRIGHTEN TRIO – Light/Medium
Concealers – 1.5g
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Octyldodecanol, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Jojoba Esters, Polyethylene, Ethylhexylglycerin, Stearalkonium Bentonite, Dimethicone, Allantoin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Propylene Carbonate, Phenoxyethanol, May Contain (+/-): Mica, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499).

Brightener – 0.5g
Tridecyl Trimellitate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter Extract, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Octyldodecanol, Silica, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba Wax) Cera, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax (Candelilla Cera), Jojoba Esters, Isopropyl Palmitate, Polyethylene, Ethylhexylglycerin, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tocopheryl Acetate, BHT, Dimethicone, Allantoin, Bisabolol, Stearalkonium Bentonite, Propylene Carbonate, Phenoxyethanol. May contain (+/-): Mica, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891). Warnings: For external use only. When using this product keep out of eyes. Rinse with water to remove. Stop use and ask a doctor if rash or irritation develops and lasts. Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed get medical help

LENGTHENING MASCARA
Water (Aqua), Propylene Glycol, Paraffin, Ozokerite, Phenyl Trimethicone, Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil, Styrene/Acrylates/Ammonium Methacrylate Copolymer, Acrylates/Ethylhexyl Acrylate/HEMA Copolymer, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Propylene Glycol Stearate, PVP, Stearic Acid, Beeswax (Cera Alba), Glycol Montanate, Triethanolamine, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Silica, Hydrogenated Palm Acid, Stearyl Stearate, Nylon-66, Acrylates/Diethylaminoethyl Methacrylate/Ethylhexyl Acrylate Copolymer, Synthetic Wax, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Tetrasodium Disuccinoyl Cystine, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Phenoxyethanol, May Contain (+/-): Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Black 2 (CI 77266).

LASH EXTENDING FIBERS

Nylon-66, Dimethicone, Mineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum), Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, May Contain (+/-): Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891).

COMPETITION – WIN A SHEER COVER KIT WORTH £50+

This competition closes at midnight on Sunday 14 August 2016. The winner will be informed within 14 days of the competition close. Please also note that the Editor’s decision is final and that no cash equivalent is being offered.

If you would like to have a chance to win this prize please fill in your contact details and answer the simple question below:

ThePrizeFinder – See more at: http://www.theprizefinder.com/content/sheer-cover-mineral-makeup-kit-worth-%C2%A350#sthash.MApABjr5.dpuf

Former jet-setting stewardess Katy Hull on why you should love your skin

Posted on November 29, 2015 by admin

Former Virgin Atlantic stewardess Katy pictured ten years ago when her skin problems started.

In her first blog for Elixir – Treat the Skin You’re In – Katy Hall reveals why she has a passion for helping people solve their skin concerns.

Hello and welcome. I’m Katy Hull and anti-aging is my passion! I get so much satisfaction and joy from helping people with their skin concerns, studying skin health, nutrition, skincare ingredients, supplements and basically anything that contributes to us feeling and looking like the best version of ourselves!
However, it wasn’t always this way. Rewind several years and I was far from a skin angel. I was a long haul Air Stewardess for Virgin Atlantic, travelling the globe. I had a great deal of fun and experiences I will treasure forever, but the lifestyle I led took its toll on my skin. In truth, it probably wasn’t just the lifestyle because had I been more educated beyond ‘cleansing and moisturising’ then my skin may not have ended up in the awful state it did.
A love of sunbathing – with not enough regard to a high SPF cream, and a love of partying, combined with night flights, a lack of sleep, dehydration from flying and an erratic diet did not make for skin that glowed like a goddess. My skin was prematurely ageing and it seemed to happen overnight! If you saw pictures of me from that time it probably wouldn’t even be apparent.

The worst damage was lurking deep down in the skin, not visible to the naked eye and unbeknown to me at the time. It’s pretty amazing what makeup can do…. although it can’t hide lines and wrinkles. My uneven and dull skin tone was well covered and makeup with a glow gave me a false radiance. Barefaced, I was starting to lack confidence in myself and was beginning to realise the error of my ways.
It was a UV skin scan that revealed the extent of the damage. It wasn’t pretty and a very hard pill to swallow. Sent away from the clinic with around £400 of products and some big promises – that didn’t deliver. My journey of discovery with regards to skin health began. After jumping from skincare brand to brand (never satisfied with results). I eventually found my skincare holy grail that I’m fiercely loyal to – it changed my life and transformed my skin!

I got educated on skin health – I gained a level 4 qualification in Advanced Skin Science. I studied skincare ingredients and all of the things that make up a part of the jigsaw that is skin health – It’s more complex than simply using an amazing serum! My education is a continuous journey that I’m dedicated to, so that I can help more people with their skin. Eventually I set up my online business treattheskinyourein.com. If you’d like to read my more detailed story of why I set up my business, you can read about it here.

My philosophy is very simple – ‘Treat the skin you’re in’.It’s about being kind to yourself. Listening to your body and your skin, and respecting it. Our skin is a living organ that deserves to be treated with care and respect, and if you treat it that way you’ll have your goddess glow!
With regards to the skincare products I love and believe in. They’re clean (no chemical nasties) and packed with very effective active ingredients that really pack a punch in rejuvenating the skin. Combined with some simple beauty rules that I apply to my own life – they help to support the products in working to their optimum. I believe skin can be improved, transformed and be healthy and more youthful looking. Who doesn’t want that?

My aim with this blog going forward is to share whatever knowledge, experiences and tips that I think will be beneficial to you in some way. It might be a supplement that I’m feeling the benefit of. It might be a skincare ingredient I absolutely love! Or a smoothie recipe that is total skin food…. I will only ever share information about products that I use myself and absolutely love and believe in! That way you know you’re getting a genuine experience and opinion.

So on that note I’ll say goodbye and I’ll be back soon with some anti-aging tips!

New stem cell serum extract promises wrinkle reduction in weeks – full sized product worth £176 to be won

Posted on September 8, 2015 by Editor

A new and potent anti-aging breakthrough derived from non-embryonic human stem cell research has just been launched in Europe. And Elixir has a samples of this exclusive Blue Horizon Stem Cell Serum to give away in our competition. All you have to do is answer a simple question at the end of this article.

Blue Horizon promises a 23% reduction in fine lines, wrinkles and scars in just two weeks. Although the serum does not contain actual human stem cells, its formula is based on stem cell research. The company offers stem cell treatments outside of the US in unique collaborations with scientists.

The main and unique active ingredient in the serum are stem-cell derived proteins called cytokines which send signals to regulate cells and regenerate skin. It also contains proven skin anti-ageing ingredients including epidermal growth factors which are natural combination of skin growth promoters; short and long-chained hyaluronic acid and ceramides to combat the effects of aging and deliver unique skin benefits without surgery.

The serum has been toxicology tested within the EU and independent research on twenty individuals aged 46 to 81 found a 23% reduction in skin roughness, including a decrease in the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and scars in just two weeks. The test was carried out by Dermatest®, a top, independent German pharmaceutical and cosmetic test accreditation laboratory, who used Dermatological Optical 3D Test:Norm DIN 4768 on the skin of 20 test subjects using the serum. The serum is made in Germany.

If you want to get your hands on a pot of this unique anti-ageing serum you can here
at the Blue Horizons website Although its not cheap at £176 ($295 ) for 30 ml which is approximately one-month’s supply, the cream has been flying off the shelf.

If you would like to win a full size sample please answer a simple question in our competition below:

click here to find out more at the Blue Horizons website

New! Shiseido celebrates new anti-ageing serum launch by offering you the chance to win The Perfect Pair worth £125 – now closed!

Posted on March 1, 2015 by admin

For over 140 years Shiseido has been caring for women’s skin; creating premium beauty products developed with the most advanced technology and the best of nature.

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Shiseido Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate -left – 30ml £60 and the new super serum Bio-Performance Glow Revival Serum – 30ml £65

Find out more: www.shiseido.co.uk

To celebrate the launch of Shiseido’s NEW Bio-Performance Glow Revival Serum, we’re giving you the chance to win The Perfect Pair:

FOR ANTI-AGEING PREVENTION
Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate, 30ml
After 20 years of research, Shiseido has created a new world first. Ultimune’s multi-award winning formula works to strengthen, repair and reinforce the skin’s immunity, to resist the impact of future ageing.

FOR THE CORRECTION OF SKIN CONCERNS

NEW Bio-Performance Glow Revival Serum, 30ml
Discover an innovative, powerful new super-serum that treats multiple skin concerns at their source. The NEW Glow Revival Serum directly targets redness, dullness, uneven skin tone and ageing, with 93% of women reporting healthier, more vibrant looking skin. (Tested on 111 women, self evaluation).

Shiseido is available to purchase online and in select department stores: Bentalls, Boots, Fenwick Bond Street, Harrods, Harvey Nichols, House of Fraser and John Lewis. Plus, boots.com, escentual.com, feelunique.com, harrods.com, harveynichols.com, houseoffraser.co.uk, johnlewis.com and lookfantastic.com

www.shiseido.co.uk
facebook.com/shiseidouk
twitter.com/shiseido_uk
pinterest.com/shiseidouk
instagram.com/shiseido_uk

To win your Perfect Pair worth £125, simply answer the question below:

Win competitions at ThePrizeFinder.com

Win a trio of Novexpert Paris anti-ageing skincare products worth £100+ – now closed

Posted on August 7, 2014 by

Novexpert is a cosmeceutical skincare brand created by a team of four French doctors who are recognised experts and researchers in the skincare industry. The result is the most effective anti-ageing formulations that are suitable for sensitive skin as well as safe for long term use – based on medical research.

You can win these three key products by answering a simple question at the end of this page

La Creme Anti-age Expert – £35 for 40ml

Perfect for normal to dry skin types.

The Integral Anti-Ageing Cream is the perfect addition to any skincare regime. The natural ingredients work wonders providing dramatic results without a single chemical ingredient. Skin will feel incredibly soft and smooth and your complexion more radiant after just 28 days of use. Main benefits of use are anti-wrinkle care, lifting,nourishment.

The Integral Anti-Ageing Cream has been expertly developed by Dr Lintner, with an ultra-rich texture for intense anti-age skin renewal it’s suitable for normal to dry skin types. A perfect addition to any skincare regime.

It is ideal for those suffering from:

Pre or post-menopausal
Photo ageing
Dry, tired skin
Skin with atopic tendency

It provides powerful nourishment thanks to; Omega 3, 6 and 9, Shea Butter and Evening Primrose Oil. The lightweight yet, rich formula is loaded with light reflecting, antioxidant ingredients that give immediate radiance and leave complexion flawless and even.

Suitable for:

From 20 years +
Normal to dry skin types
Sensitive skin
Men and Women

Active Ingredients

Nourishing Omega 3, 6 and 9, Shea Butter and Macademia Nut Oil.

0% Preservatives
0% Paraben
0% EDTA
0% Phenoxyethanol
0% Silicone
0% PEG

Ingredients:
Aqua (Water),Coco-Caprylate, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Butylene Glycol, HeptylUndecylenate, C12-16 Alcohols, Olive Oil Decyl Esters, Butyrospermum Parkii(Shea) Butter, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Trehalose, Parfum (Fragrance),Squalane, Behenyl Alcohol, Bentonite, Xylitylglucoside, Hydrogenated Lecithin,Palmitic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, Arginine, Anhydroxylitol, Mica,Squalene, Xylitol, Xanthan Gum, Glyceryl Caprylate, Sodium Hyaluronate,Tocopherol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Helichrysum Italicum Leaf CellExtract, Laminaria Ochroleuca Extract, Biosaccharide Gum-2, Pyrus Malus (Apple)Seed Extract, Algae Extract, Phytic Acid, Helichrysum Arenarium Flower Extract,Punica Granatum Seed Extract, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) SeedExtract, Sodium Cocoyl Alaninate, Brassica Oleracea Italica (Broccoli) Extract,Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), Silybum MarianumExtract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Helianthus Annuus(Sunflower) Seed Oil

Le Fluide Anti-age Expert – £35 for 40ml

Perfect for normal to combination skin.

Expert Anti-Ageing Fluid is the perfect addition to any skincare regime. The natural ingredients work wonders providing dramatic results without a single chemical ingredient. Skin will feel incredibly supple and smooth and your complexion more radiant after just 28 days of use.

ExpertAnti-Ageing Fluid has been expertly designed by Dr Lintner, with a “velvety”soft texture brimming with moisture for intense anti-age skin renewal; it’ssuitable for normal to combination skin types. A perfect addition to anyskincare regime. It is ideal for those suffering from:

Pre or post-menopausal
Photo ageing
Dry, tired skin
Skin with atopic tendency

It provides nourishing and replenishing ingredients thanks to; Aloe Vera Gel, Shea Butter,and Evening Primrose Oil. The lightweight yet, rich formula is loaded with light reflecting, antioxidant ingredients that give immediate radiance and leave complexion flawless and even.

Suitable for:

From 20 years +
Normal to Combination skin types
Sensitive skin
Men and Women

Expert Anti-Ageing Fluid – £35 for 40ml

Perfect for normal to combination skin.

Pre or post-menopausal
Photo ageing
Dry, tired skin
Skin with atopic tendency

Suitable for:

From 20 years +
Normal to Combination skin types
Sensitive skin
Men and Women

Contour des Yea anti-cernes Expert(fights dark circles) – £32 for 15ml

Ultra-high performance active ingredients to illuminate the eyes: chlorella (anti-dark-circle), green tea (decongesting) and plant pulp (lifting). A concentration of exceptionally high-performance anti-aging ingredients that target DNA and collagen for in-depth skin regeneration.

Active Ingredients

Chlorella, Green Tea and Plant Pulp.

0% Preservatives
0% Paraben
0% EDTA
0% Phenoxyethanol
0% Silicone
0% PEG

Hypoallergenic and Dermatologically tested

THIS COMPETITION WAS WON BY ANNE MANCINI

Vinotherapy in the green heart of Italy

Featured

Posted on August 3, 2014 by Editor

by Avril O’Connor

At Elixir we promote the anti-ageing properties of red wine – it is bursting with antioxidants, including resveratrol. But we thought the only way to sample its anti-ageing effects was to drink it! So you might perhaps understand my situation when I got to try vinotherapy for the first time.

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

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

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

Surrounded by antique furniture and paintings, each of the 60 bedrooms is uniquely furnished, giving it has the feel 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 delicious 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.

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.

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 viniculture artifacts anywhere in the world – from its earliest beginnings in the Mediteranean to the Middle Ages and beyond – covering five thousand years of winemaking history. The theme of the wine god Bacchus runs through the collections which are housed in 20 rooms, featuring working tools, fine prints, drawings, antiquarian books and graphics by Picasso and a glass by Jean Cocteau (pictured below).

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 (pictured below).

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 a star. She sniffed around for a few minutes, 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 – people smile and wave at us. 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! After all it would be rude not to!

FACT FILE

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
For information on wine tastings contact Sabrina@lungarotti.it
Wine and Olive and Oil MuseumsT: +39 075 9880200 museovno@lungarotti
Getting to Torgiano
Alitalia to Rome www.alitalia.com
Ryanair to Perugia www.ryanair.com

New – Win the ultimate flawless skin kit – Sheer Cover Introductory VIP Kit worth £50+ – now closed!

Posted on July 10, 2014 by admin

Sheer Cover are industry leaders in the art of flawless makeup.

The Sheer Cover Studio Introductory VIP Kit is worth over £50 and contains everything you need for a great looking skin, including natural coverage of blemishes:

Perfect Shade Mineral Foundation in medium
Sun-kissed Bronzing Mineral
Concealer & Brighten Trio in light/medium
Lengthening Mascara and lash extending fibres in black
3 makeup brushes

This kit also contains a guide with exclusive tips and tricks from Hollywood celebrity makeup artist Naomi Priestley – so you can get professional looking make up at home.

Sheer Cover Ingredients:

SUN-KISSED BRONZING MINERALS – 2.5g
All Shades: Mica, Magnesium Stearate, Isopropyl Myristate, Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate, Dimethicone, Diisoprorpyl Dimer Dilinoleate, Polymethyl Methacrylate, Nylon-12, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI77492, CI 77499). Warnings: For external use only. When using this product keep out of eyes. Rinse with water to remove. Stop use and ask a doctor if rash or irritation develops and lasts. Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed get medical help

CONCEAL & BRIGHTEN TRIO – Light/Medium
Concealers – 1.5g
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Octyldodecanol, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Jojoba Esters, Polyethylene, Ethylhexylglycerin, Stearalkonium Bentonite, Dimethicone, Allantoin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Propylene Carbonate, Phenoxyethanol, May Contain (+/-): Mica, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499).

Nylon-66, Dimethicone, Mineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum), Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, May Contain (+/-): Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891).

OUR LUCKY WINNER WAS RICHARD RANDALL.

Win competitions at ThePrizeFinder.com

New anti-ageing kit from Dr Perricone is a facelift without surgery!

Posted on July 7, 2014 by

Dr Nicholas Perricone MD

Nicholas Perricone, MD is a board-certified dermatologist, educator, best-selling author, award-winning inventor, scientist, and world renowned healthy ageing expert. He is the founder and creator of Perricone MD, the preeminent, trusted, global lifestyle brand that pioneered the concept of youthful beauty and health based on his revolutionary breakthrough technology.

Dr Perricone’s self-confessed “lifelong passion for science” and “holistic approach to ageing” has long been the foundation for his dedicated commitment to unlocking the secrets to healthy ageing, the basis of his esteemed skin care range Perricone MD.

New to the UK market is an exclusive kit of 4 different items – costing only £39.99 but actually worth £140 with key products to halt the droop and revitalise skin.

The Perricone Sub-D Basic Kit costs £39.99 (+£4.95pp) but is actually worth £140

Elixir is a big fan of this brand because it delivers tangible results straight away – skin literally sucks up this ingredients.

The new Perricone Sub-D Basic kit has been specifically selected to target the most common signs of ageing, designed to achieve optimal results, leaving skin renewed, rejuvenated, replenished and radiant-looking.

Technologically formulated with powerful ingredients suspended in a patented delivery system, and based on Dr Perricone’s unrivalled knowledge of the ‘science of beautiful looking skin’, the complete Perricone MD system includes 4 prestigious products (including hero product Perricone MD Cold Plasma Sub-D) to address the visible signs of ageing and deliver an instant lifting and firming effect to sagging skin in both the face and neck area.

Cold Plasma Sub-D, 30ml (worth £55)

Perricone MD Cold Plasma Sub-D is a proven*, effective, neck treatment formulated to provide a visibly firmer appearance to the chin, jaw line and neck areas. Containing powerful ingredients in a patented delivery system, Perricone MD Cold Plasma Sub-D is designed to address the appearance of loss of elasticity along the contours of the jaw line and chin while smoothing the look of vertical and horizontal wrinkles on the neck and décolletage.

The results
A tightened appearance of sagging, loose skin and improved appearance of double chin.
Visibly more defined appearance of the chin and jaw line, achieving an overall more youthful  looking face.

Improved appearance of lines and wrinkles on the neck and décolletage with noticeable  improvement in overall skin texture.  *In a user group (39 participants) 87% reported an improvement in the appearance of firmness of the neck area, 82% felt the appearance of their chin/jaw line was more toned, tight and firm, 82% saw decrease in the appearance of (double chin) or sagging of chin/jaw line.

Application:  Dr. Perricone recommends applying on chin, along jaw line, and down to the neck and décolletage areas morning and evening, making sure to apply to the back of the neck and up behind the ears.

High Potency Amine Face Lift, (30ml, worth £40)

Perricone MD High Potency Amine Face Lift is a powerful cosmetic treatment scientifically formulated to help the skin appear more lifted and firm, visibly improving the contours of the face while smoothing the appearance of fine lines and minimising discolouration and age spots from sun damage.

Application: Dr. Perricone recommends applying to cleansed skin in gentle circular motions every morning. Avoid the eye area and follow with a daily moisturiser.

From the Discovery Collection
Citrus Facial Wash (59ml, worth £15)

Perricone MD Citrus Facial Wash is designed to gently wash away the impurities of the day without stripping skin of its natural oils. This beautifully scented cleanser leaves skin refreshed and perfectly prepared for treatment.

Application: Dr. Perricone recommends massaging onto damp skin and rinsing with warm water.

Cold Plasma (7.5ml, worth £30)

Perricone MD Cold Plasma is a cosmetic treatment formulated to help address the 10 most visible signs of ageing: wrinkles, sagging, enlarged pores, dryness, discolouration, uneven skin tone and redness, loss of firmness, smoothness and radiance.

Application: Dr. Perricone recommends applying on top of any Perricone MD treatment. Follow with moisturiser as needed.

EXCLUSIVE KIT OFFER
Kit price: £39.99 + £4.95 P&P Perricone Sub-D Basic Kit includes:
– HERO PRODUCT: Cold Plasma Sub-D (30ml/1oz) worth £55
– FREE BONUS: High Potency Amine Face Lift (30ml/1oz) worth £40
– FREE GIFT: Discovery Collection worth £45 (Discovery Collection consists of two products:  Citrus Facial Wash (59ml/2oz) worth £15 & Cold Plasma (7.5ml) worth £30)  The Perricone Sub-D Basic kit is available now from www.subd.co.uk

Elixir’s test verdict: As with all Perricone products, you will see an instant improvement in your skin. And the improvement continues over the days that you use it.

These products are not sticky and unperfumed. We loved them. Great value for money and although expensive when purchased individually, a little goes a long way. Tester’s award: 9/10

World-leading natural health expert Dr Brian Clement holds London workshop

Posted on June 5, 2014 by

Do you want to fight the effects of premature ageing? Don’t miss out on this top anti-ageing event being held later this month in London!

Join Dr Brian Clement, one of the world’s leading naturopathic doctors and nutritionists, for his one-off workshop at London’s Regents University on 21 June 2014. Find out his life changing tips on how to tackle premature ageing and disease, enhance longevity and maintain optimum health.

Known for his pioneering work as the director of the world renowned Hippocrates Health Institute in Florida and the author of more than 20 books, Dr Clement has been widely recognised for his contribution in the field of modern health care. His best-selling book ‘Living Foods for Optimum Health’ has been acclaimed as a ‘landmark guide to the essentials of living’.

During the workshop Dr Clement will enlighten you on which supplements are best for YOUR body and which ones can effect rejuvenation, delay premature ageing and support wellbeing. Come and learn the truth about health supplements, and discover how to distinguish between natural, effective supplements, and the toxic and chemical ones.

Find out about Dr Clement’s extensive clinical research and training in the field of disease and prevention and get the opportunity to ask him any questions on the subject.

You’ll also be given an insight into the Life Transformation Programme which has evolved over the last 60 years and which provides the ultimate approach to health, natural beauty and longevity.

Included in the day is a delicious Hippocrates inspired gourmet lunch box from Nama, London’s leading artisan raw food restaurant.

This event will book up fast so don’t delay and book your place today! Tickets are still available at the special price of £85.

During the workshop Dr Clement will talk about which supplements are best for your body and which ones can effect rejuvenation, delay premature ageing and support wellbeing.
Find out about Dr Clement’s extensive clinical research and training in the field of disease and prevention and get the opportunity to ask him any questions on the subject.
You’ll also be given an insight into the Life Transformation Programme which has evolved over the last 60 years and which provides the ultimate approach to health, natural beauty and longevity.

To book your ticket click here

Slow down skin-ageing with the new Hydra Test pen

Posted on May 14, 2014 by

Dry skin is ageing skin. So how do you find out if your skin is suffering from moisture depletion before the signs are visible and the damage is done?

A new high-tech device from HydraTest could be the answer. It’s a pen that’s been designed to measure skin moisture levels in seconds and help prevent dehydrated skin, a key factor in premature skin ageing.

HydraTest is a pen-size device that offers instant, accurate and real-time analysis of the skin. It measures oil and hydration levels in just five seconds, delivering your very own personalised ‘skin prescription’ so that you can tailor skincare needs based on the readings.

Regular exposure to stress from constant hot, cold and artificial environments can play havoc with skin hydration. Coupled with the fact that many women often mis-diagnose their skincare type and, as a result, end up using the wrong care regime or products, these factors can all aggravate skin and cause premature wrinkles that make us look older than we actually are.

The device works by using the latest bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) – the same sophisticated technology in professional medical and beauty equipment. It detects the skin’s conductive moisture levels, delivering accurate and precise information about your skin so that you can keep a check on moisture levels at home and on the go, and top up with your favourite moisturiser whenever skin needs it to keep it in optimum condition.

If the reading is low the skin is hydrated and vice versa. HydraTest is simple to operate: Press the “Measure” button once, apply the contact to the skin zone you want to check and the digital read out will display oil and hydration levels within 3 to 5 seconds.

A credit card sized guide is included with the device to cross-reference the. Its lightweight too weighing just 40g and about the same length as standard pencil, the unit takes one AAA battery which delivers approximately 1000 separate skincare readings.

Available to buy at Harvey Nichols stores and online at www.hydratest.com. RRP £75.

Perfect for a Valentine’s Glow – Transformulas Hydration Gold

Posted on February 10, 2013 by Editor

This is a wonderful product for special occasions when you want to give you skin that ‘wow factor’! It does exactly what it says on the packet – drenches the skin in 23 carat luxury!

We wouldn’t go as far as to call it the ‘fountain of youth’ but it does have a great list of anti-ageing ingredients – hyaluronic acid and 23 carat gold powder – so it softens the skin by hydrating it and you end up with a golden dewy glow.
And at £41.95 for 15ml it is not bad value considering it lasts for a couple of months. Buy at www.transformulas.com
If you want to know more and how to apply it here is a video:

Anti-ageing properties of tomatoes revealed by new research

Posted on January 7, 2013 by Editor

Tomatoes, particularly when eaten as part of a Mediterranean-style diet, have an array of anti-ageing properties, new research in the UK reveals.

The research has once again identified lycopene, a key nutrient in tomatoes and other red vegetables and fruits, as the principle source of the health benefits, after trials with a supplement.

They discovered the following:

lycopene boosts the elasticity and efficiency of blood vessels, reducing the hardening of the arteries, which occurs with age and improves blood flow
The supplement used in the study, brand name Ateronon, was shown to improve flexibility of blood vessels by up to 50%.
Ateronon was shown to dramatically improve the function of the cells of the endothelium, the layer of cells lining the blood vessels, in the group of patients suffering from heart disease.

The Mediterranean diet, in which large amounts of vegetables are eaten, allows populations in Southern Europe to live up to ten years longer than their Northern counterparts.

The research team from Cambridge University has found that taking Ateronon, a newly developed version of lycopene, improves absorption into the blood to levels way above those naturally achieved by a Mediterranean diet.

The scientists used Ateronon, a lycopene supplement, for the research and it was shown to improve flexibility of blood vessels by up to 50%. Not only that but lycopene will help revolutionise the treatment of heart disease and circulatory disease, the biggest causes of death and disease in Britain. Every year 180,000 people die from heart attacks and 49,000 from strokes, with medication for sufferers costing a further £2bn every year.

The two-month study compared the effect of Ateronon on 36 patients with pre-existing heart disease, who were already taking cholesterol-lowering statin drugs, and 36 healthy volunteers. Both groups had an average age of 67 and comparable blood pressure readings, though those with heart disease already had noticeable blood vessel damage.

Ateronon was shown to dramatically improve the function of the cells of the endothelium, the layer of cells lining the blood vessels, in the group of patients suffering from heart disease.

Increasing blood lycopene levels boosted the endothelium’s sensitivity to nitric oxide, the gas that triggers the dilation of the blood vessels in response to exercise and demand for increased blood flow in healthy people.

If the same results can be demonstrated in more patients, Ateronon could revolutionise the treatment of heart disease. In addition, if it is scientifically proven Ateronon does have an effect on endothelial function, then it could also have a beneficial effect on virtually every inflammatory disease process, including things like arthritis or diabetes, and even slow the development of cancer, which is also linked to inflammation.

Ian Wilkinson, director of Cambridge University’s clinical trials unit, who was involved in the study, said the results suggested that Ateronon might slow down the worsening of symptoms in people already suffering from heart disease.

Peter Kirkpatrick, a leading Cambridge neurosurgeon with an interest in strokes and circulatory disease, is now medical advisor to CamNutra, the company which has developed Ateronon and which sponsored the Cambridge trial, said: “The results from this trial are far better than anything we could have hoped for.”

He added: “This was a small group, and we now need to confirm the findings in a much larger study population.”

If the results from the next round of trials are favorable, Ateronon could also offer an effective alternative to statin treatment for heart disease sufferers who cannot tolerate the cholesterol-lowering drug.

Until now however, there has not been a way of improving the natural slow absorption of lycopene by the human body.

Mediterranean populations have always enjoyed a protective effect against heart disease from their diet, and dozens of researchers have already suggested tomatoes may be the source of this protection, though until now, an explanation of the mechanism involved has remained elusive.

Immortality comes a step nearer with new longevity test

Posted on November 16, 2012 by Editor

The first blood test to measure more accurately how fast our DNA is ageing has been launched in the UK.

The TAT (Telomere Analysis Technology) test, measures the length of telomeres, the tiny caps at the top of our DNA. It’s already been scientifically proven that the shorter they become the closer we come to the end of life and/or likely to be suffering from life-threatening diseases or accelerated ageing.

Until now the only commercially available tests have measured the average length of telomeres – not how many are ageing or the percentage that are getting shorter. The results from the test are used to measure chronological age against biological age, as indicated by the damage to telomeres. The patient would then work with his doctor to correct damage with various lifestyle and diet changes, taking another test in a year’s to check changes.

Telomere damage can be stopped and even reversed by making lifestyle changes such as taking more exercise, a healthier diet and vitamins. There are also some substances which are known as ‘telomere activators’ and promote telomorase, the enzyme which helps lengthen them. These incude some anabolic steroids and TA65, a supplement made from a plant source.

In humans, as cells replicate, the telomere length decreases, as part of the natural process of ageing. But those suffering from diseases will have far shorter than average telomeres which eventually leads to faster or total cell death.

The company behind this new development is a new Spanish biotech, Life Length, which has been spun out research by the Spanish National Cancer Research Centre in Madrid and specific work by its Director Dr Maria Blasco.

The company has been partly funded by the Spanish government and US venture capital. So far $20 million has been invested over the last five years in developing and refining the technology. The test, at £650 is being made available through doctors in independent practices, who will guide a patient through the process, the results and the changes that should be made to lifestyle. Patients will also be asked, to anonymously contribute to research through a questionnaire to further enable medical knowledge into ageing diseases.

T he Doctors Laboratory in London, is providing front end sample preparation for Life Length, who will process the blood samples in their laboratories in Spain.. Click here to mail the Doctors Laboratory about tests.

Patients undergo a simple blood test through their physician. The blood is then frozen the same day and sent to Life Length’s Madrid laboratory, where a powerful microscope is able to map the numbers of ‘critically’ short telomeres. The process is very complex, involving the ‘mapping’ of every single cell in the blood, which is why is takes a month to get the results.

At the London launch, Life Length CEO, Steve Matlin, predicted that while the test was expensive at this time, it could eventually become as readily available as cholesterol testing is today.

Matlin, a former US investment banker, has already had himself tested – to find happily that he has a biological age of 37 at the chronological age of 43.

Find out more about this new development on this video:

111SKIN by Dr Yannis Alexandrides MD

Posted on October 5, 2012 by Editor

111SKIN is the culmination of cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Alexandrides’ long standing commitment to helping his patients defy the signs of ageing.

This new product uses what space scientists’ learned looking for ingredients that limit the effect of environmental damage on skin – whether in space, high altitude or urban conditions.

The main active ingredients in 111SKIN were developed by Bulgarian space scientists for their astronauts. As the largest organ of the body and its main protector, skin already has a difficult task. If we add common environmental stresses – UV rays, wind, pollution and free radicals – that job becomes more challenging and the cumulative effect is ageing, lacklustre skin.

111SKIN targets the problem on a cellular level, complementing your body’s defence system by using a patent pending formula, NAC Y2. This formula combines NAC , Vitamin C and Escin. NAC and Vitamin C are the essential building blocks that increase Glutathione, the most vital antioxidant in our cells that is responsible for protecting skin from environmental extremes. Escin, another potent antioxidant, increases blood circulation, promotes stronger collagen production and helps transport NAC Y2 and Vitamin C directly to cells.

Together, these powerful ingredients detoxify, hydrate and regenerate skin cells, working from within to strengthen skin and fight damaging environmental elements. When used daily, skin becomes younger looking, more supple and more radiant.

The key product in the range is the Y Theorem Nac Y2 Facial Repair Serum (£190 for 30m) which sinks deep into the skin. It has a powerful combination of the NAC Y2 formula with Aminocaproic Acid, hydrolyzed Collagen and 20 key amino acids which specifically boost collagen production, helping to increase cell generation and skin elasticity. We also tried the Facelift Day Cream and loved that too (£130 for 50ml). I

We tried both the skin and the eye serums. Only a little needs to be used. It glides on. And the effect is almost immediate. In particular, the eye serum, has a lifting and tightening effect which you can see a few minutes later. A five star product.

These products are expensive but the quality of the ingredients is so good that you only need a little amount. The ingredients are also kept fresh as they are in an airtight pump dispenser.Its exclusively on sale at Harrods currently and also through 111 Harley Street.

Win Trilogy’s New Rosehip Antioxidant+ beauty oil

Posted on October 2, 2012 by Editor

ELIXIR had got together with organic skin beauty experts Trilogy to offer you the chance to win a bottle of its new Rosehip Oil Antioxidant+.

Trilogy’s new Rosehip Oil Antioxidant+ is packed with natural and organic anti-ageing nutrients and normally costs £26.50 for 30ml.

We have 5 samples of this lovely beauty oil to give away. All you need to do is to answer the following question correctly:

From which country do the rosehips used in Trilogy beauty products come from:

(a) China

(b) Chile

Please send your answer with your name and address to readeroffer@elixirnews.com. Please note that the closing date for this competition is 31 October 2012. The winning entries will be put into a draw. Also that no cash equivalent is being offered and the Editor’s decision is final.

This is a beauty oil that delivers all the benefits of repairing from pure organic rosehip oil, plus the added protection of several super antioxidants.

Certified Organic and 100% natural, Rosehip Oil Antioxidant+ is a unique and advanced formulation called Rosapene.

In this blend, Rosapene contains certified organic rosehip oil and red berry seed oils, giving you intensive nourishment with daily antioxidant protection. It replenishes softness and elasticity for healthier, younger looking skin.

Super antioxidants Lycopene from tomatoes and phytoserol from Acai protect skin from premature ageing caused by free radical damage. Essential fatty acids from rosehip and cranberry oils nourish and help moisturise, regenerate and restore.

Trilogy use certified organic seed oil from Chile, containing a minimum 80% of essential fatty acids – omega 3 and 6 – to nourish, regenerate and hydrate skin.

If you would like to know more about Trilogy www.trilogyproducts.com.

ThePrizeFinder – UK Competitions

Exercise boosts benefits of calorie restriction on longevity

Posted on July 11, 2012 by Editor

Exercise boosts the benefits of calorie restriction which is turn kickstarts the human metabolism to extend lifespan.

Scientists at the Buck Institute for Research on Aging report in the magazine Cell Metabolism the outcome of experiments, that suggest that it may be necessary to be physically active in order to derive maximum benefit from dietary restriction (DR).

Significant restriction of the intake of a particular nutrient or total calories has extended the life span of numerous species in laboratory experiments; however, researchers are still clarifying the mechanisms involved in the techniqueIn research involving fruit flies, Pankaj Kapahi, PhD and colleagues observed that the insects became more physically active when their protein source was restricted. The increased physical activity observed in the dietary-restricted flies was associated with greater fat synthesis and breakdown.

When fat synthesis in muscle tissue was blocked, so was the life-extending benefit of dietary restriction. And in flies whose motion was limited, the extended life span that normally results from a restricted diet did not occur.

“Ours is the first study to suggest that for dietary restriction to enhance lifespan, you need increased fat turnover in the muscle and an associated increase in physical activity,” Dr Kapahi announced. “Furthermore, it also suggests that dietary changes may enhance motivation to exercise and help derive maximal benefits of exercise.”In flies genetically engineered to overexpress the hormone AKH, metabolism and activity levels were enhanced and lifespan was extended, even without dietary restriction.

“Our data suggests that DR may induce changes in muscle similar to those observed under endurance exercise and that molecules like AKH could serve as potential mimetics for DR that enhance activity and healthspan,” remarked lead author and Buck Institute staff scientist Subhash D. Katewa, PhD.

“A better understanding of the dynamics of fat metabolism is needed in order to clarify its role in aging and disease. These current results suggest that enhanced fat metabolism could help slow aging and the onset of age-related disease.

“Dietary restriction is known to enhance spontaneous movement in a variety of species including primates, however this is the first examination of whether enhanced physical activity is necessary for its beneficial effects,” Dr Kapahi added.

“This study establishes a link between DR-mediated metabolic activity in muscle, increased movement and the benefits derived from restricting nutrients. Our work argues that simply restricting nutrients without physical activity may not be beneficial in humans.”

Grape anti-ageing in Bordeaux – comic Dom Jolly reveals all

Posted on October 24, 2011 by Editor

Famous for its fine red wine, packed with anti-ageing resveratrol, Bordeaux is one of the world’s best known wine travel destinations. But you may surprised to learn that the region has more than just wine tours on offer for the huge number of tourists it attracts annually.

While it’s true that Bordeaux is blessed with perfect grape growing conditions resulting in vineyards overflowing with not just red, but white and rose wines; this coastal city has become more than just a hub for wine connoisseurs and wine lovers alike. The miles of incredible coastline on the west coast provide plenty of opportunities for long strolls along sandy beaches, while the oldest streets of Bordeaux are rich in architecture and have excellent shopping for market lovers.

After experiencing this beautiful city first hand, comedian Dom Jolly for one would agree that Bordeaux has plenty to offer travellerslooking for a wonderful French experience with a difference.

Log onto our l WebTV show, where Dom will reveal manyof the hidden gems he uncovered while discovering the French wine capital and you will be able to see for the first time footage from his trip.

Elixir of life drug found on Easter Island

Posted on June 30, 2011 by Editor

New York: A drug has been discovered on one of the remotest places on earth andwhich scientists believe can reverse the effects of premature ageing and could extend human life by more than a decade.Researchers are looking at ways to market the drug.

Rapamycin, which is being called the “forever young” drug, was created from a chemical found in the soil on Easter Island, 2,000 miles off the coast of Chile in the Pacific Ocean.

The drug is already used to supress the immune system, thereby assisting organ transplants. It was used in experiments on children suffering from Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome (HGPS), a rare genetic condition in which ageing is hyper-accelerated and sufferers die at around 12 years.

HGPS causes a dangerous process whereby a protein called progerin builds up in every cell of the body, causing them to age prematurely, according to a report in the medical journalScience Translational Medicine.

Rapamycin cleaned the cells of progerin and left healthy cells.

Researchers in the US are expected to start looking at whether the drug could be used more widely, after similarities between HGPS and the normal ageing process were uncovered.

Dimitri Krainc, co-author of the study, said: “Even a small activation of this ‘debris removal’ system would extend the health and life-span of our cells and organs.”

Scientific breakthrough in skin ageing from Vichy

Posted on May 16, 2011 by Editor

London:A new scientific discovery, the fruit of 10 years research into understanding skin ageing, has resulted in the creation of a new generation cream.

Vichy LiftActiv Derm Source the skin cream that has been dubbed by the press as a ‘wrinkle cream first’ targeting the skin’s ageing process went on sale in Britain last week, following a wave of media and consumer interest in the product ever since scientific research on its breakthrough formulation was revealed at the beginning of the year.

The breakthrough, backed by rigorous scientific testing and independent analysis, with the findings published in various medical journals such as PLoS ONE*, has seen scientists identify the key role of papillary fibroblasts in the Derm Source (also known as the papillary dermis), in the production of collagen fibres which keep the skin plump and elastic.

Taking its lead from the expert and scientific methodologies used in the pharmaceutical industry, researcher’s trialled 50 different compounds to identify the most effective ingredient to specifically target the Derm Source and actively stimulate the production of collagen fibres and through this testing, identified Rhamnose, a derivative of the Silver Birch Tree and Cat’s Claw (Uncaria) as the clear winner.

The product containing this active ingredient is called LiftActiv Derm Source by Vichy. It has been tested on 800 women, 40% of which have sensitive skin and there have been 6 clinical tests carried out plus 2 in vivo studies.

Dermatologists found a measurable decrease in the five leading types of wrinkles in the areas tested (face and neck).

Watch our video below to see how the product works and how the experts predict it will revolutionise the skin care industry.

Weight-loss surgery reduces diabetes in obese patients by 50%

Posted on April 13, 2011 by Editor

They discovered that the average patient sheds nearly 60% of their body weight in the year following surgery, from an analysis of data from more than 8,700 operations carried out in the NHS and private sector.

It found two thirds of severely obese patients had three or more associated diseases by the time they reach surgery. A third have high blood pressure, over a quarter have diabetes and nearly a fifth have high cholesterol.

Patients who had a 12-month follow-up examination following surgery had lost some 58 per cent of excess weight, while cases of type 2 diabetes fell by 50 per cent.

After two years, 86 per cent of those affected by diabetes prior to surgery showed no signs of the disease. There was also improvement on all associated diseases.

The study which looked at operations including gastric bypasses and gastric bands – said the costs were recouped within three years as obesity-associated costs are eliminated.

Walnuts – No1 for health nuts

Posted on March 28, 2011 by Editor

New York: The crinkly walnut is full of potent and abundant antioxidants – more than any other nut, according to new research.

They contain healthy amounts of fibre, protein, vitamins and minerals and other trace elements necessary for a healthy diet.

Eating nuts regularly helps reduce the risk of a number of serious illnesses including heart disease, certain cancers, and type-2 diabetes.

Scientists recently analysed the antioxidant content of nine different types of nut: walnuts, almonds, peanuts, pistachios, hazelnuts, Brazil nuts, cashews, macadamias and pecans.

Lead researcher, Dr Joe Vinson, from the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania, US, said that Walnuts were healthier than all the other nuts.

He said that around seven walnuts a day was the right amount to obtain maximum health benefits.

Dr Vinson’s team found that walnuts not only had more antioxidants than other nuts, but more powerful antioxidants.

Those in walnuts were between two and 15 times more potent than vitamin E, renowned for its antioxidant properties. And unlike other nuts which are generally roasted and loose nutrients as a result, walnuts are generally eaten in their raw state.

Nuts account for just eight per cent of the daily antioxidant consumption in an average person’s diet.

Dr Vinson said many people were put off nuts because they were thought to be fattening. But he pointed out that nuts generally contain healthy polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats rather than artery-clogging saturated fat.

Eating nuts did not appear to cause weight gain and might even reduce over-eating by making people feel full.

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