A Cosy Retreat Escape! Top Luxury Spas in Ireland: Cliff At Lyons.

Relax and rejuvenate in a picturesque setting:

Being a fan of both our built heritage and spa breaks, I was delighted to be invited on a Press Trip to discover the stunning new Spa and Wellness centre ‘The Well in the Garden‘ at Cliff At Lyons in Co. Kildare. The historic Cliff at Lyons is just a short drive from Dublin City Centre – approximately 45 minutes drive and you’re on your way to experiencing a little slice of heaven.

Nestled in the picturesque Irish countryside, just a short drive from Dublin City Centre, Cliff at Lyons is a historic village dating back to the seventeenth century that has been  lovingly and beautifully restored.

*Not sponsored.

The two storey structure houses three treatment rooms, a manicure/pedicure suite and a large relaxation space. The interiors mirror the lush green countryside and encourage visitors to reconnect and be at one with nature, relaxing mind, body and soul.

Upon arrival we were greeted with a prosecco reception and introduction to each treatment on offer including Nourishing Body Cream and an unbelievable Restoring Hand Cream jam packed with oils leaving skin visibly younger looking after only one minute! Results lasted throughout the day too with hydration levels piqued skin looked brighter and plumped. Incredible stuff.

*See the Picture Gallery below for images of what we tried from the Treatment Menu before choosing a treatment to indulge in.*

With an emphasis on naturally sourced oils, salts and scrubs and providing one of a kind relaxing and nourishing experiences from their treatment menu such as Hug of the Hands Massage, Hot Towel Head and Scalp Ritual and Peat for the Feet which I opted for! This Irish girl was intrigued…peat as a beauty treatment?!

My Treatment Selection:

Having opted for the Peat for the Feet pedicure treatment I was led into a cosy relaxation suite with three armchairs, metal buckets filled with warm water and various flower petals. I sank into the heavenly armchair with prosecco in hand as the pedicure of dreams began…

After a quick exfoliation, locally sourced natural Irish peat was applied to my legs and feet and massaged in to get the blood flow going and activate the ingredients in the peat to detoxify my skin and body. There is no scent, but the peat has a slight cooling effect when applied.

Legs and feet are then wrapped in hot towels to allow the peat treatment to activate and absorb into the skin further. A head massage is performed whilst this process takes place and by the time my therapist had finished, I was completely relaxed head to toe. The peat was then rinsed off with hot towels and body cream massaged into my legs and feet. My legs were left glowing and felt lighter and tighter than they had before!

My therapist then excused herself and left me alone with my thoughts for a few minutes to completely immerse myself in the wholly relaxing and pampering experience. Several minutes later I gather my thoughts and popped my shoes back on. Whilst waiting for my taxi, I retreated to the main relaxation space where I sank into yet another cosy armchair this time fireside, feet up on a poof and snuggled up with an Irish tweed comforter, another glass of prosecco in hand. Sheer bliss!

Picture Gallery:

Eateries The Orangery fine dining and Trellis for comforting, hearty fare.

We had a dinner of delicious comfort food in Trellis where you’ll find a relaxed, informal style of dining. Open to both resident and non-resident diners, people often drop in after a stroll along the banks of the Grand Canal or whilst on their way to seek out the grave site of Arthur Guinness located nearby in Oughterard cemetery!

I opted for the pan fried salmon from the menu that day, which came with crushed potatoes and asparagus with a citrus jus if I remember correctly, a tasty, ample portion that satisfied my hunger pangs for a long time after. The vegetarians amongst us were  reasonably satisfied with the veggie options on the menu to indulge in.

As always I would advise calling ahead to advise any establishment with dietary requirements you may have before visiting for a satisfactory foodie visit!

{Trellis – for relaxed, informal dining at Cliff at Lyons.}

{Lounge at Cliff at Lyons.}

{Window seat relaxation area at Cliff at Lyons.}

Needless to say no one on the Press Trip wanted to leave, with several of us planning a return at Christmas or when the temperature goes up in Spring!

Thank you so much to Cliff at Lyons for having me and for a truly memorable and  exciting, yet relaxing day. It was a beautifully indulgent treat, I truly welcomed the chance to discover the new Spa Retreat, to switch off from the world for a while and recharge my energy and nurture my creative flow. I’ll be back.

Thanks for stopping by!

Until next time…

Gail. x

Photography: images 1st-6th & 9th via: Cliff at Lyons.

All other photography: Gail O’Connor.

#NYFW 2017 HAIR TREND REPORT: Ladies Day/Wedding/Festival Hair Inspo with Aveda!

Best–tressed: Summer got you thinking of fresh, new hairstyles? With various Festivals & Ladies Days approaching and the summer wedding season upon us, check out my round-up of the latest hair trends straight from the catwalks of New York Fashion Week via Aveda featuring looks from shows via Public School, Hellessy, TOME and Tibi. Up do’s and piecey looks feature highly as well as embracing the natural state of the hair and building upon it, perfect summer styling for summer occasions!

*Not sponsored.

Public School:

Hellessy:

Effortless sleek, shiny low ponytails rocked the catwalk at the Hellessy show. Low key style allowing your outfit or makeup do the talking.

One of my favourites and a 5* product from Aveda is the Shampure Dry Shampoo which I was introduced to during a complimentary hair consultation provided by Aveda in Brown Thomas, Dublin. This stuff is incredible, soaks up grease like a dream, restores some shine to the hair, gives some volume and lasts forever! Another bonus? Travel friendly due to its smart packaging.

The Makeup:

Radiant, luminous, muted, natural looking makeup perfectly compliments the natural state of the hair in the looks shown allowing the hair to be the star of the show. Aveda have some beautiful offerings from their makeup range including their lipsticks and blush shades. 

TOME: Antoinette Beenders for Aveda.

The natural nature of the hair was embraced and showcased at the TOME show.

Tibi: Frank Rizzieri for Aveda.

Fuller, thicker, face framing looks abound with Tibi.

Next on my list to try is the Thickening Tonic!

What New York Fashion Week look caught your eye? Let me know! Catch me on my Social Media •Twitter: DublinGail •Instagram: littlegforce •Snapchat: DublinGail •Facebook: GlamForce Blog by Gail O‘Connor.

I’m loving the sleek low–ponytails and the fuller face framing looks – the perfect blend of extremes creating a very different look for your tresses whatever the event!

You can also purchase Aveda Hair Hero products in Travel size – perfect for ‘on the go’ touch ups or pop them in your hand luggage for incredibly nourished tresses whilst on holiday. Aveda products are available at Brown Thomas Dublin and have a styling salon located on the premises also.

Thanks for stopping by…until next time!

Gail. x

Photography: courtesy & © of Aveda, with thanks.

*Not sponsored.

Spotlight on: Dublin Fashion – ‘& Other Stories’ SS17 Makes Landfall!

The Event:

It was a case of old world meets new at the ‘& Other Stories‘ Press Preview.

The Date: October 2016.

The Location:

Set in the uber historic surroundings of the hidden gem that is Marsh’s Library, Dublin the SS17 presentation from ‘& Other Stories‘ was right at home – nestled beautifully in a place filled with stories and legends of it’s own, perfectly in keeping with the brand ethos.

What’s to Come From & Other Stories Dublin?
Encompassing two Atelier collections & Other Stories delivers a nod to the style of Stockholm and Paris in its Atelier collections.

Paris Atelier:

Feminine and extravagant, this collection explores the decadent bourgeoisie. The look is flourishing in lavish details, rich colours and floral prints, reinventing the perception of French flair. – Philoméne Tellaroli, Accessories Designer, & Other Stories

Key elements of the collection: floral prints, embroideries and high collars – combined they deliver another chapter of boho escapism.

Stockholm Atelier:

Dress up or dress down your outfit this season with a pair of contradictory shoes. Mix casual with stiletto heels or dress down tailored pieces with soft, easy flats. Find and effortless look by playing with proportions and contrasts. – Nicole Johnson, Shoe Designer, & Other Stories

Key elements of the collection:

Shoulders are slightly dropped and waistlines are marked, punctuated with key details such as ribbons and belts that control the flow and shape of the garments.

Check out the gallery below for a closer look at some of the collections, snaps from the preview plus a look at some of my favourite picks from ‘& Other Stories‘ when it hits Grafton Street, Dublin before Christmas!

{Blacksheep Foods provided a delicious and uber healthy lunch – highly recommend this company for top notch grub!}

Maximialist Joy: the SS17 collection from the Paris Atelier features ultra feminine silhouettes highlighting an emphasis on bell sleeves and ruffles with a palette that dabbles in hues of red, blue, white and pink.

Renew Volumes: taking influence from the 1930’s, the Stockholm Atelier presents a strong and minimalistic approach to the SS17 collection and sets the stage for a contemporary silhouette with a nod to a relaxed yet chic approach to layering.

This collection places emphasises on a new approach to power dressing – a bold fresh take for the modern, working woman’s wardrobe. With the signature tailoring of & Other Stories the collection encompasses a palette of light blue, yellow, white, bright green and black.

The Accessories:

Sleek, modern ornate graphic design pieces and on-trend ultra stylish key pieces are at the heart of the accessories collection – a little bit of heaven for any wardrobe.

Decorative pieces such as brooches make an appearance alongside grandiose rings and earrings, mini bags and scarves worn as necklaces.

The Beauty of & Other Stories:

Not just offering apparel, ‘& Other Stories‘ has some seriously gorgeous beauty and makeup items as well as candles to decorate your chosen space.

The scents featured in the body care  and candle ranges are blended to perfection, unearthing some weird and wonderful treats for the senses, uniquely different pairings that somehow just work!

{My favourite scent – cannot wait to get my hands on this!}

{For the home: scent offerings from the candle collection, elegant and smell divine.}

{The colour payoff from this highlight is insane! See below for closer look…}

{Blinded by the light…stunning highlight offering from & Other Stories. #musthaves}

Are you excited for ‘& Other Stories’ to hit Dublin? Have you already experienced ‘& Other Stories’ abroad? If so, what are some of your must-haves?
Tell me!

Tweet me: @DublinGail Instagram: @littlegforce, Snapchat: DublinGail or comment below!

The official website is down for maintenance , meanwhile you can visit ‘& Other Stories’ on Tumbler , Twitter, YouTube and Facebook.

Thank you: ‘& Other Stories’ and Balubas PR for having me in attendance.

Thanks for stopping by until next time…

Gail. Xx
Photography:© Gail O’Connor.

#MerryMischief: Jo Malone Christmas Preview.

An opulent, elegant, eye-catching festive landscape greets one upon arrival at the Jo Malone counter in Brown Thomas Dublin. Playful and inviting ‘Harlequin Masquerade‘ has recently been unveiled as this year’s Jo Malone Christmas theme.

The Event: Jo Malone Christmas Harlequin Masquerade Preview Evening.

The Location: Brown Thomas Dublin.

The Date: October 2016.

Along with the unveiling of the Harlequin Masquerade theme was the entire Christmas collection  – ranging from iconic fragrance sets, trio candle sets, to Christmas scented decorations and of course the annually highly coveted Advent Calendar!

{The scent of Christmas: make it extra special with complimentary engraving, available in-store with purchase. See in-store/online for more details.}

{Christmas nibbles: special delivery direct from London. Delish.}

Tailormade Scent Layering:

I was also treated to an introduction to Jo Malone scent layering; where my favourite scents types were discussed and a tailormade scent created. I was introduced to my tailormade scent via a welcome arm massage using selected scents of Velvet Rose and Oud from the Collection and Peony and Blush Suede from the Collection. Worn together or individually, each scent holds their own – beautifully blended essentially giving one three individual scents to indulge in…or more if you are privy to the beauty of layering with Jo Malone.

The beauty is that all Jo Malone scents can be layered with/over each other, giving one a vast array of scent discoveries with endless possibilities creating the ultimate fragrance wardrobe!

Thank you to the Counter Managers at Brown Thomas for inviting me in and being uber accommodating on the night, in thoroughly  talking me through this year’s Christmas theme and new additions to a brand I am passionate about.

Thanks for stopping by – until next time…

Gail. xx

Photography: © Gail O’Connor.

REVIEW: Dental Care with REGENERATE NR5- Worth the Hype?!

Shine Bright Like a Diamond!

#RegenerateYourSmile

One of our best accessories is often the most ignored and taken for granted – our smile.

Our smile is often the first welcoming and friendly sign we give to people and the wider the better! First impressions count for a lot and especially so when working in the beauty industry and networking at events like Fashion Week

I attended the official re-launch of Regenerate products in Ireland in May and since June, I have been trialling *Regenerate Toothpaste with Nr5™ in a bid to undo some of the damage from enamel erosion as well as the damage I have done to the gum surrounding a tooth which has left the dentine surrounding it exposed. This particular dentine problem arose during an overly zealous tooth brushing session recently, much to the dismay of myself and my Dentist…who marvelled at the fact that I was being too clean with my brushing!

 

What is Tooth Enamel?

Tooth enamel is the outer coating of the tooth and despite it’s hardness it gets eroded daily by acid attacks from food and drink.

At the re-launch of Regenerate Enamel Science NR5™ Toothpaste guests were told how to spot if their tooth enamel is wearing thin, by checking the bottom of our teeth and examining if the bottom is becoming a little more transparent then the rest of our teeth. Most of us in attendance had signs of enamel erosion…

How Does Enamel Become Eroded?

Tooth enamel erosion frequently goes unnoticed and happens to everyone of all ages, making teeth increasingly vulnerable. It can occur from enamel exposure to acidic food and drinks such as carbonated drinks like lemonade, cola, vegetable juices and smoothies and fruit waters such as lemon water. It is best to consume these liquids through a straw to curtail the exposure of acid to the tooth enamel.

The Claims:

Regenerate Enamel Science NR5 builds up, essentially “regenerating” the enamel surrounding teeth and makes it stronger protecting against tooth decay and loss.
According to the team behind Regenerate Enamel Science “80% of common tooth problems are caused by enamel erosion and acid attacks“.

9 years of research inspired by bone repair technology have lead to the development of the exclusive and clinically proven NR5™ technology.

 

With every use active NR-5 ingredients combine to form a fresh supply of enamel minerals. These wrap and integrate onto teeth helping to regenerate enamel and reverse the erosion process helping to keep teeth strong and healthy.

It is the first system that can regenerate enamel mineral, with the same mineral that tooth enamel is made from, helping to regenerate enamel by restoring its mineral content and micro hardness .

The Review:

Like I said above, I had an overzealous tooth cleaning session rushing out the door one morning and brushed too hard resulting in a slight exposure of dentine to one of my teeth. I realised I had done something wrong when the incident took place however the soreness subsided after a day or two and I got on with things making a note to visit the dentist – noticing in the mirror that my gum looked a little more in an upward position to its usual appearance.

I went about the start of my day and headed out for my daily walk…(I add at this point, that this was in the middle of winter in frigid conditions). Mid-way through my walk and really pounding the pavement I began to breathe deeper through my mouth as I was feeling the workout – once I inhaled the icy cold air within it went directly to the area of sensitivity surrounding my tooth where the dentine had become exposed! I winced with the pain and thought “that’s weird!”. I hadn’t realised that it was the spot that had been sore whilst brushing a dew days before! I continued my walk but had to reduce the speed as the same thing kept happening with every breath – and similiar pain arising upon consumption of cold drinks or ice-cream.

Since using Regenerate Enamel Science NR5 religiously morning and night I have noticed a significant difference in the reduction of sensitivity particularly in the “exposed” area. I have also noticed significant whitening of my teeth has occured and that the tip of the bottom of some of my teeth, that were slightly transparent are less so now after prolonged use. I used a pea-sized amount daily morning and evening (before events and the like also) and the product lasted me about 3 months used in this way.

 Major Performance Points right there!

My Experience – from Performance Points to Pleasure of Use:

☆ Significant lessening of sensitivity to the area where dentine is exposed.
☆ Whitened teeth quickly
☆ Gentle formula – pleasing crystallised appearance, no burning sensation.
☆ Pleasant, mild yet effective minty taste and scent.
☆ Decent sized tube (considering the price) – lasted 3 months using pea-sized amount.

Worth the Money?

The Star Rating: ☆☆☆☆/☆

I would say that if I saw it on the shelf I would probably scoff at the price however having tried the product, I have experienced the benefits and having been to the re-launch I now have an understanding of the science and research that goes into this product to back up the immense claims.

I give it 4/5 stars only de-ducting points for the price point which may make it unattainable for some folk. Performance-wise I found it to be stellar.

Upon trialling, Regenerate Enamel NR5 is in my opinion, definitely worth the money if you suffer from any of the issues I have mentioned in this post and if it within your price point. It has definitely earned it’s four star rating!

Would I purchase again?

Definitely,  for the reasons above. The price would have me considering my budget with every purchase however as at €13.99 it is approximately double the price of other household names in toothpaste (which I can understand given the research), that claim to do something similiar…it is definitely a results based, considered purchase!

There is also a Regenerate Enamel Science NR5 Boosting Serum Kit™ that you can use alongside the toothpaste for double the performance, however I wanted to trial the toothpaste alone to see results from  its solo performance as a lot of people may decide to only opt for the toothpaste option in the Regenerate Enamel Science family!

The Boosting Serum rings in at €39.99 a considerable hike in price form the toothpaste but the claims are that it lasts three months, used once a week for three days with a heightend performance power through dual usage of products.

I hope to report back on the performance power of this product once I incorporate it into my routine.

{A close up of the crystallised appearance of Regenerate Enamel NR5 Toothpaste – I found the appearance very pleasing, coupled with the gentle whitening effect I felt the toothpaste really performed the way the scientists claimed it would.}

There you have it, thoroughly tried and tested – Regenerate Enamel Science NR5 toothpaste comes ‘GlamForce Approved and Recommended‘.

Thank yous go to Unilever Prestige and Avila Lipsett for the invitation to the incredible Regenerate event and Press Samples to trial.

Have any of you tried Regenerate Enamel Science NR5 Toothpaste? Do you think you will?Let me know!

Regenerate products are available in most Boots stores.

I hope you enjoyed this Review/Beauty Chat style post guys and thanks for stopping by!

Gail. Xx
Photography: © Gail O’Connor.
This post contains PR Samples marked with * however all thoughts and views are 100% my own as always!

Santorini Vibes and a Goddess Glow: Summer Style Inspiration!

{Santorini Vibes: shades of blue and pops of white, taking fashion inspo from the picturesque, hillside vista of Santorini, Greece.}

When a colour palette compels you to blog about it…

As a writer and blogger I find inspiration in everything. From nature, to a conversation, to trend forecasting in Fashion/Beauty etc – however when a colour palette inspires you to write an article on it you know you’re obsessed and you may as well give in and do it!

Santorini Vibes:

If I can’t go to Santorini, I’ll bring Santorini to me – taking inspiration from the islands colour palette in particular the white and blue hues associated with this Greek island!

Into the blue:

{Postcards from Santorini: The Santorini hillside vista that inspired this post.}

I can’t get enough of this colour palette…

I’m talking every shade of blue, paired with white for the ultimate holiday mindset. From washed out denim and cobalt to pastel and Santorini Blue (yeah I totally just made up that name) but you know the one, that blue that conjures up images of deep blue rooftops that majestically overlook an equally blue sea signifying a beaming beacon of relaxation, and an unequivocal Greek island experience of an island way of life of a by gone era. Coupled with white washed, glistening walls this colour palette simply screams summer and the blue and white sun soaked hillside, has immersed itself in my fashion subconscious and seen me dress in island blues on repeat!

Stripes, prints, block colours I’m loving it all – mixing and matching within the palette, block colours of white and blue with prints and stripes in the same hues – adding the odd pop of colours such as yellow, orange, nude, navy and tan to compliment the look.

The Goddess Glow:

These white and blue hues are off-set for me by a gleaming golden glow to the skin lending a bolder, crisper look with added “pop”, to any outfit! I get the ultimate grecian goddess golden/bronzed glow from a new release in the tanning world which I have been trialling lately!

I rarely sit in the sun in the summer months to “get a tan” and if I do you can bet your bottom dollar I’m smothered in Factor 50 because well you know, who needs the wrinkles? Especially nowadays, when self tanners have come such a long way!

The Tan of Choice:

I’ve been trialling *B BOLD Smart Mousse Tan for about 4 weeks and I have to say it never fails to give me major Mediterranean Island/Tropical vibes when I wear it. #vibes #thefeels

The colour pay-off with this tan is unreal. No really. From sunkissed glow to golden hue to a deeper bronzed tan, this tan is perfect to achieve any depth of tan you wish! It’s a one stop shop, making it perfect for travel – the high performance of the tan is a pleasant surprise and it is a welcome addition to the self-tanner market here in Ireland.

Look out for the FULL review on *B BOLD Smart Mousse Tan coming very soon!

All the usual suspects in fashion have variations on this summery palette and in an array of textures – such as Primark, Debenhams, House of Fraser, Marks and Spencer, Zara, H&M and Savida to name just a few.

There you have it, some summer style inspiration in the form of colours and textures in various hues of blue for a fashion colour palette that’ll take you through summer feeling like you’ve been to far away climbs even if you haven’t! My summer capsule wardrobe sorted.

Now all I need is an actual trip to Santorini…although it’ll probably be more like somewhere in the west of Ireland! I’m not complaining though, after all I’m channelling those Santorini vibes…

What is your favourite colour palette for summer? What inspires you when choosing pieces for your summer wardrobe? I’d love to know!

Thanks for stopping by guys!

Gail. Xx
Photography: © Gail O’Connor.
*Post contains PR sample – All views/opinions on the product are mine as always! .

REVIEW: Champagne Pop BECCA X Jaclyn Hill Shimmering Skin Perfector.

Light Up Your Life with Becca Cosmetics X Jaclyn Hill Champagne Pop Highlight!

The power house of highlight, Australian cosmetics giant BECCA Cosmetics and the Queen of Highlight Jaclyn Hill, have joined forces and produced a stellar, must have product for any self respecting highlight lover!

The Introductions:

Becca Cosmetics are renowned for their highlighters in particular, in the make-up realm – Opal and Moonstone Shimmering Skin Perfectors and the much hyped Backlight Priming Filter. Their eye-shadow palettes are also exquisite…the list of must-haves/lust haves goes on and on.

If you don’t know who Jaclyn Hill is (have you been living under a rock?) allow me to introduce you! Jaclyn Hill is one of the biggest make-up artists and personalities in the beauty game on YouTube. Uber talented, funny, articulate, pretty and not afraid to take the mick out of herself, she has certainly earned her place at the top of her game. In fact, having watched Jaclyn the last two years, I think if we ever met, we’d be instant friends – we could bond over our love of highlighters and dance parties for starters!

The Packaging:

Champagne Pop comes in an eye-catching rose gold, box complete with plastic protective strip across the product sporting the Jaclyn Hill name – the original Becca packaging encases the actual product.

Tried and Tested: The Results.

With the Queen of Contour Kim Kardashian having declared contouring as dead (well at least heavy contouring) strobing is fast becoming the “illuminating contour” method of choice for the masses and this new highlight from Becca and Jaclyn Hill collab is perfect for strobing or adding just a touch of highlight on the daily. Originally brought out as a limited edition powder highlight, Champagne Pop is now thankfully a permanent fixture and should win awards! I bought into the hype surrounding this highlight collab when it was a Limited Edition and it’s safe to say, it’s everything I expected and bought into as a consumer and more. In fact, for me it’s a dual usage product and well worth the investment –  as detailed below.

The Highlights: (pun totally intended.)

From texture, longevity to overall performance.

● Finely milled, buttery formula that is long-lasting on wearing and in sheer volume of product within the compact.
●Sheer, yet highly build-able highlight. A little goes a long way!
●Skin glows and glistens – no chunky glitter particles.
●Natural champagne shade to suit most skin tones.
● Ideal for minimal daily use on cheekbones, for strobing, dusting all over face and décolleté and inner corner highlight of the eye…
● I even like it as an eye shadow or dusted on my pins to highlight the shin bone with a tan!

*Top Tip: remember to blend out to avoid looking like you’re sweaty mess/ disco ball effect.

● Travel friendly the compact is lightweight, with durable packaging, complete with an internal, good sized mirror.

Cons:

Not a massive deal but, the powder can become somewhat messy and have fall-out within the compact, something to be aware of, in case it gets on clothes during application  – this definitely would not put me off investing in it.

Seal of Approval?

One hundred percent yes. A touch of Champagne Pop makes every day an occasion for me, bringing a sparkle to my eyes (as well as my face), such is my delight in this product. This gem of a product is a permanent fixture in my make-up arsenal and I can’t be without…a back-up is definitely in order! This marketing opportunity is hands down one of the best collaborative projects between brand and influencer in recent times in the beauty industry, in my opinion! This offering is simply stellar.

Any other Highlight Lovers out there? What’s your favourite highlighter? Have any of you tried Champagne Pop?
I’d love to know!

Tweet me: @DublinGail/Tag me on Instagram: @littlegforce or leave your faves in the comments section below!

I hope you enjoyed this Review and Beauty Chat guys!

As usual, thanks for stopping by and here’s to a fab new week.

P.S. Remember: Champagne Pop is now a permanent fixture in the BECCA Cosmetics line (thanks to the powers that be!)and is available on spackenk.com or sephora.com 

Gail. Xx
Photography: © Gail O’Connor.

VIP Morning with Peter Mark: Re-Launch of NIOXIN Thickening Hair Products.

Thicker Hair and Breakfast in Style:

I was recently kindly invited to attend a VIP morning for the Re-Launch of NIOXIN Hair Products in Peter Mark where I would experience the full NIOXIN in-salon experience in my quest to return to my luscious locks. I had wanted to try NIOXIN since speaking with a Beauty Editor of a popular Irish magazine at a launch, about her amazingly thick hair and subsequently her experience with NIOXIN. I was reminded of this rumoured “miracle” hair product when my stylist mentioned it to me and hence I was delighted to receive the invitation from one of my favourite salons and where I had my very first job, Peter Mark! I remember it well…

The Event: VIP Morning: Re-Launch of NIOXIN with Peter Mark hair salon.

The Location: Dundrum Town Centre.

The Date: April 2016.

Upon arrival at the salon, I was warmly greeted by my stylist and offered an array of breakfast delights and refreshments from orange juice and warm freshly baked pastries such as croissants to sausage rolls and fruit, as was my mom who accompanied me (a mother-daughter day was on the cards), fascinated at the prospect of what treatment I was attending the salon for!

I was then whisked off to my seat to begin my Nioxin experience…

The Consultation:

A hair consultation followed with my stylist and a Senior consultant of Wella (NIOXIN is under the Wella haircare umbrella) and a hair health check ensued using the latest technology to check hair density, growth, sebum excretion amounts (natural oils in the hair), hair follicle health and overall hair health. I had previously had a similar hair health check with a haircare company and knew my hair was healthy, however I wasn’t sure why after a lengthy illness a while back, it wasn’t growing back as thick or strong as it once had been.

As it turns out the hair that frames my face is particularly weak and grows a certain amount and then breaks therefore keeping hair thickness and growth in the area to a minimum…that’s where NIOXIN comes in!

What is NIOXIN Dermabrasion?

A Facial for the Scalp – How it Works:

The NIOXON Demabrasion Treatment is an anti-aging treatment for the scalp to help regenerate and revitalise the scalps skin through an exfoliation process, just like a facial for the scalp!

Suitable for men and women and those with colour treated hair the dermabraison treatment gently exfoliates, removing build up around the hair follicles and the claims are that it helps skin surface regeneration by up to 34% compared to untreated skin. NIOXIN treatments and products are recommended for those with alopecia, thinning/fine hair in order to promote healthy, stronger and thicker hair growth.

The Process:

Designed to revitalise the scalp and prevent hair damage the NIOXIN Dermabrasion Treatment is applied to the hair and has a revitalising, zingy mint scent. The scalp tingles with the  active concoction of ingredients and signals that the treatment has gone to work on restoring the hair to it’s natural and former glory.

The Application:

Applied to dry hair in a grid pattern and massaged into hair for one minute.

Left on the hair for ten minutes and then rinsed well.

Followed by the recommended NIOXIN 3 Part System.

Hair was then styled as usual and re-examined once more: with sebum levels, scalp and hair surface and follicle condition all re-examined after the treatment.

{Hair health is re-examined after the NIOXIN Dermabrasion Treatment.}

{Images are so in depth that they show minute in-grown hairs in the scalp – too many of these and the scalp is congested.}

{An example of a NIOXIN Three Part System.}

{My finished look – complete with boho blow dry.}

The Feedback:

I had a  lovely morning getting to grips with learning about these NIOXON products and in-salon treatments on offer in Peter Mark salons and I highly recommend trying NIOXIN products if you have thin/fine/thinning hair that’s in need of some nourishment and TLC perhaps after illness or having a baby or simply over-styling. Hair feels instantly strengthened, conditioned and thicker after one treatment. Scalp feels nourished and uber clean – all in all one is left with the perfect foundation for regeneration of hair growth! .

Have any of you tried NIOXIN treatment or products before? If so how did you like the products/treatment?

I was also to my surprise, kindly gifted a bottle of the NIOXIN Dia Boost Thickening Treatment with HTX before I left my consultation and I will be reporting back with my experience and review of this product soon.

Thank you goes to Peter Mark Dundrum Town Centre for this invitation to attend the NIOXIN VIP morning and experience these incredible treatments and products the gift and also to my wonderful stylist Emma, whose talented and capable hands I always feel comfortable in!

Thanks for stopping by guys!

Gail. x

Photography : © Gail O’Connor.
Not sponsored.

EXCLUSIVE: An Evening with Dior – A French Fragrance Journey!

Date with Dior: the heritage, the fragrance journey!

When Dior come to Dublin and are hosting an event you know you’re in for a treat. That said, when you’re a fragrance fanatic and you hear it’s a Dior Fragrance Event, in one of your favourite places in Dublin, you hot-tail it to the event pronto!

The Event: Dior Fragrance Event.

The Location: Residence Members Club, St.Stephen’s Green, Dublin.

The Date: Tuesday, April 12th 2016.

REVIEW: The Body Shop’s Spa of the World range – Quick and Easy Tips for Glowing Skin!

The Summer Skin Reveal:

Whether you’re feeling the effects of tired, stressed, sluggish winter skin, or starting that tanning routine in time for summer – the quest for glowing skin is upon us!

The *Dead Sea Salt Scrub and the Polynesian Monoi Radiance Oil for Hair and Body, part of The Spa of the World range from The Body Shop, will get skin in tip top shape for summer.