PHYL CLARKEtalks about beauty
In the pink
October? In my book, this is a bit of a non-month, with the end of September giving way to undeniable forebodings of winter. But October also heralds a succession of promotions to highlight Breast Cancer Awareness month, one of the more successful public health campaigns going. Early diagnosis is key, and we’ll be reminded about the importance of self-examination and regular health checks. Research here and abroad is making great strides in treating this disease, and many companies release limited edition “pink” products to support the cause. Here are a few promotions with potential feel-good and well as look-good factors.
Soap star
Even buying a humble bar of soap can help. The Pink Ribbon Bar (€5.50) is a lavender and lemon mix available from Nelson’s Homeopathic Dispensary in Duke Street, Dublin 2. Profits from the bar go to the Marie Keating Foundation. It can also be purchased by mail order on 01-6790451
Kiss it better
Okay, so it's not strictly a beauty item, but my morning cuppa is a beautiful thing to me when my nearest and dearest makes it for me each day. And I'm a fusspot about my teacup, which is why I'm telling you about Avon's Kiss Goodbye to Breast Cancer mug (€7.50). It's the perfect shape to keep your brew warm. Plus it's covered in all the kisses he hasn't quite had time to give me before he rushes off to work. Ring 01-8706540, www.avon.ie.
Afternoon delight
How about an afternoon of pampering with the girls? The stylists at Hession Hairdressing in Drumcondra and Clontarf are donating their time and skills for one day on October 10th, with all proceeds being donated to the charity. For €50 you get a cut, blow-dry, manicure and a head massage, Kerastase treatment, champagne and chocolates. You could do a bit of star spotting too, as this award-winning salon tends the locks of some well-known faces, who will be dropping in on the day to lend support. For appointments, tel: 01-8376265, 01-8330110 or www.hessionhairdressing.ie.
Brick by brick
As the years roll on, hair and skin lose colour vibrancy and become dull, but we don’t have to live as nature intended – otherwise we’d never put on a lipstick. A conditioning tint will sort your hair, and tricking a youthful glow on the face is easy peasy with Bobbi Brown’s Shimmer Brick (€42). These compacts come in a range of colourways, each comprising five blendable complexion-enhancing shades that highlight cheeks, giving a fresh glow. To coincide with the month that’s in it, all net proceeds from the Pink Shimmer Brick will be donated to the Cancer Research Trust at St Vincent’s Hospital in Dublin.
Day and night
The NeoVadiol range from Vichy is targeted at the signs of menopausal skin ageing – loss of definition and a general softening of features. By working on skin’s density and firmness, tone and elasticity are improved, and the jawline can appear more defined. If you want to give it a go, there’s a special promotion with this Day and Night Duo pack (€42) for the month of October. Not only is this a saving of €21.50, but you will be supporting the €3,000 donation Vichy are making to the National Breast Cancer Research Institute in Galway.
