Only skin deep?
Before you burst into spring, make sure your skin is at its best
Does it make a difference whether I have a facial before or after my ‘time of the month’?
It doesn’t really matter, unless you suffer badly from large, active spots just before your period, in which case it may be prudent to have it just after, which will also help speed up healing and clearing of spots.
How often should I have a facial?
It really depends on your age and what it is you want to achieve. Those under 25 who just want blackheads kept down should have one once every four to six weeks. If there is a problem with acne or severe blemishing, then it is better to have three to four facials within a four to eight week period, than monthly. If you are between 25 and 35, similar time spans to the above apply for general cleansing or anti-ageing treatments. Those over 40 benefit from a facial at least once a month, but would benefit more from different types of facials as often as every couple of weeks – this is a great way to keep the face really young looking (although it is important to have one therapist as they need to be aware of exactly what treatments you are receiving, to prevent over stimulation or skin damage). Face-firming courses require twice-weekly visits for up to seven weeks.
How often should I use a mask at home?
Once or twice a week is good, as long as the mask suits your skin type. If you are going to apply a mask regularly, make sure it doesn’t sting. If your budget doesn’t allow for regular salon facials, home masks are the next best thing to help keep the face young and glowing!
What would be a good, home-made moisture mask for my winter dried skin?
All normal or drier skins would benefit from mashed banana and honey, or mashed ripe avocado into which a little olive, almond, rosehip or calendula oil has been mixed. The same oils can be mixed with a little oatmeal and used as a scrub then left on for 20 minutes to feed the skin.
What colours of make-up are in for spring 2007?
There are so many trends at any one time, it really depends on your individual dress style and natural colouring when it comes to choosing make-up colours. This year, just about any colour lipstick is acceptable as ‘in’ but the point is HOW you wear lip or eye colours rather which colour. Advice on colours is best given face to face. Check the editorials in fashion and beauty pages of British glossies for best trend spotting.
What can I do to prevent wrinkles on my lip-line?
Use a good, rich moisturiser and a regenerating, anti-wrinkle product specially formulated for lips on and around the lips daily. Massage the area lightly to boost blood circulation as you apply. Facial expressions will have an impact, so if you purse your lips all the time in an angry expression, it won’t do you any favours. SMILE. Using fruit or glycolic acid creams or masks regularly around the lips may help. If wrinkles are already deep, injectable fillers such as Restylane are very good. Regular facials or massage will indirectly help also.
I don’t like using foundation, what can I use to enhance my skin instead?
If the reason is because it looks heavy or fake, then you are probably either using the wrong colour, texture or using too much. When you buy it, ask for the absolute lightest coverage (try Chanel Vitalumiere Fluide), fluid make-up that is neither greasy nor too dry and match the colour exactly to face and neck and apply ever so lightly. A tinted moisturiser is a good alternative to foundation for a natural healthy glow. If your foundation seems to be causing pimples or blackheads, choose oil free, lighter coverage ones. Try MAC or Clinique.
Is face massage good for the skin? What does it do?
Face massage is incredibly good and not just for the skin, but also the underlying structure of the skin. Massage tones and relaxes muscles, boosts blood circulation to the skin and all underlying structures, which helps drain toxins, fluid and puffiness and boosts collagen and elastin production. It stimulates the healing of scar tissue, keeps the face firmer, younger and fresher looking in addition to improving and lightening dark eye circles, relieving physical and psychological tension. It helps prevent deep wrinkles when performed regularly and helps relieve headaches. I could go on…
For individual answers to beauty queries, contact Ilia at [email protected]
