How To Build The Perfect Summer Skincare Routine

Victor Vazquez, Unsplash

What Steps Should Be Added To Our Routine?

1. Cleanse

As with all good skincare routines, Dr Paris Acharya recommends kicking things off with a good cleanser. ‘The first step in your skincare regimen should be to cleanse your face with an appropriate cleanser for your skin type,’ she says. ‘I recommend double cleansing to ensure a truly effective clean. For ingredients to properly absorb into your skin as you continue on with your regimen, you need to ensure that your skin is free of oil and dirt. Spending just a couple of minutes cleansing your face will help reduce oily build-up and acne breakouts. This is particularly important at this time of year when people are applying sun lotion and spending more time outside exposed to external factors such as pollution, pollen and dust.’

So what kind of cleanser should we try when it gets warmer? ‘In summer months, I recommend using a light, creamy cleanser as it will allow your skin to feel fresh without stripping it of all its natural oils and moisture,’ suggests Dr Acharya. ‘If you’re someone that struggles with seasonal breakouts as we transition to warmer months, it may mean that your current skincare products are too heavy for summer – summertime generally means lighter beauty.’

2. Exfoliate

Winter isn’t the only season responsible for an influx of dry skin; many of us will experience dry skin (and flaky skin if you’re recovering from sunburn) throughout summer. As Dr Acharya recommends, ‘using a gentle exfoliator regularly is vital when moving into a new season to eliminate dead skin cells allowing new, fresh skin to blossom. If you are experiencing constant dry, dull skin, the answer is to exfoliate. I recommend using a daily exfoliator once a day that is specially formulated for consistent, regular use as this will keep skin smooth, clear in a gentle manner.’

3. Vitamin C

This water-soluble vitamin is typically found in citrus, fruits and vegetables, and is a crucial micronutrient to help our bodies function properly. In skincare, vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant and skin brightener, and can help even out hyperpigmentation caused by sun damage – making it an ideal ingredient to have in your skincare arsenal.

‘No matter your skin type, always apply vitamin C – also known as ascorbic acid – to your skin in the morning,’ recommends Dr Acharya. ‘It is a fantastic addition to a skincare regimen as it is a powerful antioxidant and one of the few skincare ingredients that has been proven to help in the battle against skin ageing.

‘Vitamin C is perfect for summer skincare as it fights against free radicals such as UV rays and can improve pigmentation caused by sun damage and scarring. It also encourages collagen production and helps protect skin against damage from the environment.’

The Best Topical Vitamin C Beauty Products

Apple Bautista, Unsplash

4. Hydrate

You know what they say: stay hydrated, especially during summer. ‘Moisturising is one of the most important steps in a skincare routine, especially during the summer seasons,’ says Dr Acharya. ‘Often, our skin struggles to deal with the air and temperature change in summer, which can cause it to become dry and malnourished. So, I recommend a light yet nourishing moisturiser that will gently hydrate your skin. The Clearskin moisturiser from PCA Skin with Vitamin A and B is perfect for summer days as it lightly hydrates without clogging pores. Remember to always apply your moisturiser to your neck as well as your face to prevent ageing lines and wrinkles in all areas. At night, I recommend a slightly heavier moisturiser to ensure constant hydration throughout the night.’

Luxurious Face Creams For Dry Skin

5. SPF

While we should really be using SPF throughout the year, summer is the time it becomes as essential part of our skincare routine. As Dr Acharya notes: ‘SPF is one of the most important items in your beauty regime; it is vital for healthy summer skin. Apply your SPF to the face and neck in the morning under makeup and if wearing on your barefaced days, it is always recommended to reapply throughout the day. I always recommend using a minimum of SPF 30 to ensure effective protection throughout the day.’

Daily Face SPF Creams To Protect & Hydrate

6. Eye Cream

‘The skin around your eyes is extremely delicate so it is vital that we look after our eyes properly in the summer months where the sun is harsh on our skin,’ explains Dr Acharya. ‘So, it’s worth applying a gentle, brightening eye cream to create fresh-looking eyes for the warmer months ahead.

‘Always apply your eye cream with your fourth finger (ring finger), as this is the most delicate finger, and gently pat the cream in a circular motion around the eye, covering the eyelid and the under eye. This will ensure that the entire area is covered while also encouraging an eye lift with the application motion.’

Hydrating Eye Creams To Try Now

(c) Henry Gillis, Unsplash

7. Lips

And now for the final stage of your summer skincare routine: lips. ‘The last stage when it comes to creating a seamless summer skincare look is to take care of the lips,’ says Dr Acharya. ‘The lips are such an important part of the face and yet they often get forgotten when it comes to skincare. Many people forget to nourish their lips with a hydrating balm or serum and this can lead to dry, flaky lips.’

SPF Lip Balms For Soft Summer Lips

Which Ingredients Should We Look Out For?

Vitamin C

The Lowdown: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects your skin from environmental factors and premature ageing

What it does: ‘Vitamin C (also known as ascorbic acid) is a hero product that can be used by most skin types in the morning,’ says Dr Acharya. ‘It is a fantastic addition to a skincare regimen due to powerful antioxidant activity and one of the few skincare ingredients that has been proven to help in the battle against skin ageing. Vitamin C is a terrific skin brightener that can help manage discolouration alongside other ingredients.

‘It is perfect for summer skincare as it is a powerful antioxidant that fights against free radicals such as UV rays and can improve pigmentation caused by sun damage and acne scarring. It also encourages collagen production and helps protect skin against environmental stress.’

Hyaluronic Acid

The Lowdown: This skincare ingredient provides instant hydration and moisture to malnourished skin

What it does: ‘Hyaluronic Acid is perfect for treating dehydrated skin as it provides instant hydration, and traps in the skin’s natural moisture and water levels to provide (and retain) deep hydration,’ explains Dr Acharya. ‘It is also a great ingredient for reducing lines and wrinkles as it helps the skin appear more plumped and firmer giving a gorgeous glow.’

Christopher Sardegna, Unsplash

Vitamin B3

The Lowdown: Another ingredient that helps create brighter skin, vitamin B3 is perfect for evening out your complexion

What it does: ‘Vitamin B3 is a powerful ingredient for those with skin discolouration as well as dull skin,’ says Dr Acharya. ‘It helps to reduce trans-epidermal water loss and improve barrier function, which is critical for healthy, bright skin. The vitamin works to prevent water loss and therefore retains your skin’s moisture.’

Retinol

The Lowdown: A powerful vitamin derivative that clears acne by helping cells regenerate

What it does: ‘Retinol is a derivative of Vitamin A which plays an important role in helping cells regenerate and refresh,’ explains Dr Acharya. ‘This therefore means that retinol can help create new, younger looking skin. It is also the perfect ingredient for those with acne and breakout prone skin; retinol promotes a clear complexion and an even skin tone due to the cell turnover because as cells are regenerated, and oil production controlled your pores will be less likely to become blocked.

‘Although retinol is highly effective, I recommend using a powerful night time treatment on cleansed skin. If you use a retinol during the day, you will be exposing it to UV light which decreases the positive outcomes of the retinol. It’s very important to apply plenty of SPF when using retinol.’

Featured image: Antony, Unsplash

The post How To Build The Perfect Summer Skincare Routine appeared first on Country and Town House.

Which Wellness Trends Will Be Big in 2023?

We’re taking a much more holistic approach to wellness next year, as we tackle our health from all sides and make more inclusive solutions. This is the year of the big digital detox, coffee boycotts and mental health prioritisation. Intrigued? These are the wellness trends to take with you into 2023:

Top Trends At A Glance

1. Sleep syncing
2. Women’s wellness
3. Gut-brain connection
4. Incidental exercise
5. Matcha makeover
6. EMDR therapy
7. Gender inclusive beauty
8. Facial yoga
9. Digital detox
10. Mushroom stacking

1. Sleep Syncing

In need of a good night’s sleep? You’re not the only one. It was revealed in a study by Direct Line Life Insurance that we’re becoming increasingly sleep deprived, with 71 percent of UK adults not getting the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep each night (and 7.5 million people getting less than five hours). A lack of sleep is said to make you ‘metabolically groggy‘, making it harder for your body to process insulin and contributing to weight gain.

While we can’t always get the desired amount of shut-eye each night, one of the ways we can save our body the stress of processing a lack of sleep is by adjusting our diets and nighttime routines. This will go mainstream as ‘sleep syncing’, according to health food shop, Holland & Barrett. ‘As the quest for a better night’s sleep continues, we’ll see circadian eating – switching from heavy evening meals to afternoon ‘light’ eating – grow in popularity. Not only will we avoid super heavy food late in the day, we’ll also see new sleep aid ingredients on the block like glycine join our bedtime skincare lineup and a big tech switch-off before bed to avoid nightmares.’

2. Women’s Wellness

We’ve been chipping away at the stigma surrounding women’s health and wellness for a few years now, but in 2023 we’ll be spotlighting conversations across all kinds of media. As Holland & Barrett explain, ‘Women’s wellness becomes big business: beyond the menopause, which was catapulted into the spotlight in 2022, we will become even more focussed on breaking taboos around broader women’s health issues such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and fertility. This shift will be reflected in the products we see in the shops, in particular as nootropics and adaptogens make their way into products to support menstrual health.’

(c) Karolina Grabowska, Pexels

3. Gut-Brain Connection

In 2022, TikTok users set the internet alight with the claim that ‘hot girls have IBS’. This was a movement that allowed us to open up the conversation surrounding tummy trouble, discussing experiences and seeking out advice for the best ways to alleviate discomfort. The trend is set to flourish in 2023, with more of us looking for new ways to nurture our gut health. ‘With the world becoming more toxic and stress levels on the rise over the last two decades, we’ve seen a huge rise in patience with gut problems,’ says Dr Simoné Laubscher, founder of Rejuv Wellness and formulator of WelleCo’s ingestible beauty-through-wellness collection. ‘Over the last five years or so, we’ve also seen a huge spike in patients now experiencing mood disorders, depression and anxiety, and often this is also related to their gut.’

Dr Laubscher suggests a more holistic approach: reconsidering gut-brain connection. ‘There is a network of around 100 million neurones lining our gut. It is so extensive that many scientists refer to our gut as our “second brain”. This multitude of neutrons is called the enteric nervous system and produces more serotonin (our happy hormone) than our actual brain. This is why the gut-brain connection is key in maintaining good health and preventing disease.

‘While awareness of the importance of gut health has been growing in recent years, the gut-brain connection has only recently become a part of this conversation – and this will continue to grow throughout 2023 and beyond. The chemical messages that pass between the gut and the brain are affected by our gut microbiome – the bacteria, viruses and fungi that live in the gut – and the importance of positively influencing this through our way of life and the things we ingest will become of even greater importance.’

4. Incidental Exercise

A wellness trend that lets us fit exercise into work time? Sign us up. ‘Incidental exercise is activity that takes place in small amounts, at various points throughout the day and, in today’s time-poor society, is a trend that continues to grow,’ says Dr Laubscher. ‘It can be just as beneficial for your health as longer, more sustained workout sessions, but the difference is that it can often be included as a part of your daily living, which makes it far easier to fit into your everyday lives.

‘Incidental exercise can be as simple as getting off of the bus a few stops earlier and walking, increasing your speed when you’re walking to the shops, bounding up the stairs instead of walking, or squatting while you’re waiting for the kettle to boil. Investing in a mini-trampoline and doing 100 mini bounces at various points throughout the day to change your state and shake off stress is a great approach to weaving incidental exercise into your life.’

5. Matcha Makeover

Some bad news for our caffeine-addict friends: coffee is out, matcha is in. According to Nadia Rawjee, a certified health coach and founder of wellness brand Casa Cura, switching your morning drink from coffee to matcha is a small but impactful change this coming year to help reduce stress, manage anxiety, and give your immune system a boost. This Japanese superfood green tea is set to be the morning energiser of 2023. ‘Matcha will give you your morning caffeinated buzz while boosting your health. In contrast, coffee can be damaging to your hormone health as it causes a spike in cortisol. The energy from coffee is quickly released over a two hour time span, which can cause a crash, as opposed to matcha, which releases energy over a four to six hour timespan, making it less likely to cause a sudden crash.

‘Matcha is also great for focus (helping you crush those new years goals), as it has an amino acid called L-Theanine that gives you calming alpha waves while making you focus – this is one of the reasons why matcha was used by monks before meditation for centuries. Another bonus is that matcha is full of antioxidants, which are great for boosting your immune system and preventing any seasonal colds.’

(c) Payoon Gerinto, Unsplash

6. EMDR Therapy

The mental health movement has become a huge part of our everyday lives and taking up space in mainstream media – from podcasts and news stories to ITV’s Britain Get Talking campaign. The reduced stigma has made more of us seek out mental health treatments in recent years, but 2023 will see Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (aka EMDR) become a huge wellness trend. ‘We expect to see a continuation to the already emerging demand for EMDR therapy,’ say clinical psychologist Dr. Jenna Vyas-Lee and psychotherapist Jordan Vyas-Lee, co-founders of mental health care hub Kove. ‘Many therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) work very well by changing the way people think by use of some excellent strategies of thought and logic. However, for some problems – especially those governed by old patterns emanating from childhood experiences – it can be more useful to work at the felt-sense, emotional level.

‘EMDR is the next wave of treatment to hit the UK. A therapy that works very flexibly with problems that are deep rooted. There is a good evidence base for the methods, and the therapy is recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) – the body in the UK that gives the green light to medical and health care interventions by evaluating the research base. We recommend this for anybody who may be seeing issues related to ongoing low self-esteem or anxiety, patterns of dysfunction in relationships, persistent low mood, or any issues that are clearly linked to trauma (historical or recent).’

7. Gender Inclusive Beauty

And when it comes to the beauty products lining the shelves in stores, we’re about to see the boundaries separating men’s and women’s products blur. Gendered marketing will no longer be the priority; instead, brands will show off products that target specific concerns that are relevant to all. As highlighted by Dr. Tara Francis, Cosmetic Dentist and Advanced Facial Aesthetician: ‘In 2023, more of us will encourage and welcome gender inclusivity in skincare and beauty. Everyone should feel welcome and included in self-care, and brands are taking notice of the demand for products that can be used by all genders. Skincare should not be gender specific but should indeed be problem targeted, tackling the likes of breakouts, pores and irritation.’

8. Facial Yoga

Another wellness trend we’re excited to see reach new heights in 2023 is facial yoga. You may be familiar with the term courtesy of musician Boy George, who could be seen practicing on multiple occasions during his time on I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! in 2022. Facial yoga, or face yoga, is a routine made up of massages and exercises that help to stimulate the muscles, skin, and lymphatic system around your facial area. It’s thought to soften and relax your face muscles, relieving the visual signs of tension, stress and worry. As noted by Carrie Hancox, an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner at the Centre for Surgery: ‘With facial yoga, it can have a nice effect similar to manual lymphatic drainage, reducing that build up lymphatic fluid you get over night. It’s great for those that don’t want to go through with medical procedures, but it should be noted that it’s not going to have the same tightening effect as something like laser or Morpheus8 (a Subdermal Fractional micro-needling Radio Frequency (RF) technology).’

(c) Anastasia Shuraeva, Pexels

9. Digital Detox

A study by Leeds University revealed that, on average, Brits spend about 11 hours looking at screens each day. Our increased dependency on smart phones, tablets and laptops is making many people reconsider their relationship with their electronic devices – and in 2023 this will give rise to the digital detox. ‘We’re all becoming more aware of our screen time and the damage associated with being on our phones for endless hours of the day,’ says Hector Hughes, co-founder of off-grid cabin escape company, Unplugged.’ Screen time increased dramatically over lockdown, but we haven’t seen a drop in this since the end of the pandemic. Everyone is waking up, and now the impacts of it are starting to unravel.

‘More studies are being published about screen time, more celebrities are quitting social media – even iPhones send you notifications now to help you monitor your weekly app usage. At Unplugged, we’re already seeing the change in the last quarter of 2022. We’ve signed 10 companies who now offer digital detoxing to their employees and we’re having to roll out more cabins to meet the demand of those wanting to go totally off-grid.’

10. Mushroom Stacking

Mushrooms will continue to thrive across the wellness sphere in 2023, as we find out more about their uses and benefits. ‘Medicinal mushrooms are continuing to take the wellness world by storm, helping with everything from burnout to boosting libido, and with the Duchess of Sussex giving the trend her seal of approval by investing in a new US based company, the growth of functional mushrooms shows no signs of slowing down,’ says Clarissa Berry, nutritionist for DIRTEA. ‘Mushroom stacking is one of the latest buzzwords, referring to combining medicinal mushrooms with other adaptogens and antioxidants (stacking) to enhance the benefits. This trend explores the stacks which work particularly well together and why.’

(c) Thanh Soledas, Unsplash

Featured image: Denys Nevozhai, Unsplash

The post 10 Wellness Trends To Try In 2023 appeared first on Country and Town House.

Best Hair & Beauty Supplements 2023

Supplements For Skin

Million Dollar Facial’s Medi+ Skin Cocktails

Putting the fun into skin-friendly supplements, these Million Dollar Facial skin cocktails turn skin mixes into a mini shot. Choose from four tasty mixes packed with ingredients that support skin barrier, strengthen hair and nails and improve your radiance from the inside out. They are vegan-friendly, gluten and sugar free, but the daily shots are tasty enough to drink on their own, or mixed into a morning juice or smoothie. There’s a Firm Lift collagen drink, Regenerate daily elixir, Hydrate hyaluronic acid mix and Top to Toe Tonic for overall health. All are £50 and available from 5,000 beauty clinics in the UK. Find out more at milliondollarfacial.com

Samaya’s Ayurvedic Skincare Supplements

Want an inside job? To nourish your skin from the inside? Samaya’s multi-award winning Ayurvedic skincare supplements are personalised by dosha (bodily energy) type, so you select your pill according to your constitution. (In Ayurvedic medicine, the three doshas —vata [wind], pitta [bile] and kapha [phlegm] — need to be in balance for optimum health.) The supplements all contain hyaluronic acid (to keep your face moist), CoQ10 (an antioxidant) together with Gotu Kola (its terpenoids increase collagen production), Triphala (helps inflammation), Acerola-amla (rich in vitamin C) and other powerful Ayurvedic herbs such as (Indian ginseng) Ashwagandha. They’re also chokka with anti-inflammatories and antioxidants —from iodine from seaweed to polyphenols from green tea — naturally boosting your immunity, promoting the formation of collagen, helping repair tissue, and combating tiredness and fatigue. The Kapha supplement packs a punch (you can feel its Triphala and Ashwagandha energising you) and its ginger, cinnamon, rosemary and sage also make it very detoxifying and cleansing. On top of that, wait for it, they have no bulking agents, are 100% natural, vegan, kosher, cruelty-free, non-GM and ‘Made in England’. Pop two a day and you’ll soon see visible results. From £39. samayaayurveda.com

Revive Active Beauty Complex

Step one for more gorgeous, glowing skin: drink more water. Step two: replenish collagen, ceramides and hyaluronic acid supplies. Step three: combine steps one and two with Revive Active’s daily Beauty Complex regime. Specially formulated to compensate for declining Collagen, ceramides and hyaluronic acid in the body, this powder, when taken daily mixed with water, helps to enhance skin elasticity, tone and hydration. It also promotes thicker, more lustrous hair, stronger nails and healthier teeth and gums. The formula is enriched with Vitamin C which aids the absorption of Collagen, and Vitamin E, selenium and 150ug of Biotin (300% NRV) and 150ug of Copper. From £39.96, reviveactive.com

Kallistia Hyper Pigmentation Cleanse

Australian company Kallistia has launched a new range of supplements designed to address pigmentation, working to lighten and fade the appearance of dark spots. Kallistia Hyper Pigmentation Cleanse is brimming with Vitamins C, E and A, all of which have antioxidative properties. The supplements also contain Q10 to help protect cells against oxidative stress, and Dragon’s Blood extract which has ageing benefits. ‘We created this formula as pigmentation is often not spoken about, especially from the inside out,’ says founder Kallistia Vass. kallistia.com

Vital Proteins Collagen

Collagen supplementation is one of the fastest-growing beauty trends when it comes to skin health. Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides contain one simple ingredient, bovine hide collagen peptides, sourced from grass-fed pasture raised bovine. As well as supporting healthy muscles, joints and bones, it also helps enhance skin condition and healthy hair and nails. Jennifer Aniston is the face of the brand and adds two scoops to her morning coffee, as it’s flavour-free and soluble in hot and cold liquids. Our favourite is the Collagen Creamer, which contains organic coconut milk powder to add a tasty kick to your morning caffeine hit. From £24.99, vitalproteins.co.uk

Reparative Beauty Dose, 111SKIN

111SKIN is a clinically-inspired skincare brand founded by leading Harley Street cosmetic surgeon Dr. Yannis Alexandrides. All products are designed to replicate in-clinic treatments, the core ingredient being Glutathione, a powerful intracellular antioxidant which boosts the immune system, detoxifies the skin and delays the ageing process. It’s found in their famed Reparative Beauty Dose supplement (£85), along with Vitamins A, C and E – all known to help maintain skin health and vitality. 111skin.co.uk

Virtual Wellness Events

Ingenious Beauty Ultimate Collagen

Ingenious  Beauty’s Ultimate Collagen takes about six weeks for results properly to show. After just three, though, you’ll find your nails stronger, your skin plumper and your face glowing. All from popping marine collagen petptide, hyauluronic acid and astaxanthin supplements —in a product that boasts as many beauty awards as ingredients. Whizzy technology’s used to protect the collagen, making it 15 times more effective; there’s science behind the product’s enteric collagen delivery system; and its astaxanthin (an antioxidant found in salmon) is 6000 times more powerful than Vitamin C for boosting your immune system. You’ll find yourself counting the seconds till six weeks is up, whilst repeating the mantra: wrinkle reduction coming soon. 90 capsules, £54.99, feelingenious.com – Review by Caroline Phillips

Best For Hair

Dr Ophelia Hair Vitamins Maintenance

Prescribed in her specialist hair clinic, Dr Ophelia’s blend of nutrients are designed to keep hair looking and feeling in optimum health. The morning dose contains iron, vitamin C, vitamin B12, folic acid and selenium. The evening dose contains vitamin D3 and zinc. Both should be taken with food. £42, drophelia.com

Vitamin Injections London Hair & Nail Patches

Vitamin gummies and tablets have been popular over the last few years but Vitamin Injections London’s patches promise maximum efficacy, with nutrients being absorbed via the skin. You can wear them almost anywhere on the body for 12-24 hours with nutrients delivered including B1, B2, B3, B5, B7, B12 and B9; a one-month pack is £54.99 but you’ll see results within a week or so. vilwellness.com

Viviscal

A naturally derived hair growth supplement, Viviscal has attracted the attention of salon experts around the world since its creation, as well as a whole host of A-listers – Karlie Kloss, Reese Witherspoon and Hailey Bieber, to name a few. It also has strong scientific backing: in one study, 75.3 per cent of participants reported a significant decrease in hair loss. The company created its signature growth-boosting formula back in the 80s, following a Scandinavian study which discovered the beautiful hair of the Inuits was a result of their marine protein-rich diet. Viviscal’s star ingredient is its trademarked AminoMar marine complex, which is a blend of sustainably sourced shark cartilage, fish oil, mollusk powder and silica – all of which have hair strengthening properties. viviscal.co.uk

Featured image by Park Street 

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Supplements For Better Health

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What Are Blueberry Milk Nails?

‘Blueberry milk nails refer to a trendy nail style inspired by the colour of blueberries mixed with milk,’ says Holly Wolff, manicurist at Neville Hair & Beauty. The manicure is a new version of the milky nail trend, with an emphasis on soft blue pastel hues. The final look still has a creamy feel to it, but with a lovely blue tone to add a pop of fun.

The trend seems to be everywhere at the moment, with the likes of Zendaya, Dua Lipa, Sabrina Carpenter and Sofia Richie all spotted with blue nails. ‘Blueberry milk nails have gained popularity recently due to their unique and eye-catching appearance,’ adds Holly. ‘The combination of soothing pastel tones with vibrant blueberry hues creates a delicate and feminine look that appeals to many individuals seeking a fresh and playful colour. The versatility of the style also allows for customisation and personalisation, making it even more appealing to nail enthusiasts. A few ways to achieve these nails are pale blue colours, blue with a chrome finish or blue mixed with a clear polish.’

#BlueberryMilkNails has over 10 million views on TikTok alone, supporting a hub of creators recreating the trend and pointing out which celebrities are jumping on board.

@holly_harris I looove@Natalie #CapCut #fyp #foryoupage #nails #blueberrymilknails #blueberry #milk #nailart #chrome #mtl #montreal ♬ Moonlight – Sped Up – Kali Uchis

How Do We Ask For Blueberry Milk Nails At The Salon?

Fancy bringing blueberry milk nails to your next mani-pedi session? Here’s how to do it: ‘To ask for blueberry milk nails at the salon, it’s always a great idea to bring image references to ensure clear communication with your nail technician,’ Holly recommends. ‘You can search for pictures online or on social media platforms like Instagram or Pinterest using keywords like “blueberry milk nails” or “blueberry nail art.” Sharing these visuals with your nail tech will give them a clear understanding of the style you desire, including the colour palette and design elements.’

How Can We Recreate The Look At Home?

‘If you’d like to recreate the blueberry milk nail look at home, there are a few products you can consider,’ says Holly. ‘Here are some recommendations:

1. Base coat: Essential to protect your natural nails and provide a smooth surface for the polish application.
2. Nail polish: Opt for a soft, pale blue varnish. Bikini So Teeny by Essie is a perfect option otherwise layering a soft white under a blue will work. You can also mix together a clear colour with a blue to water the colour down.
3. Chrome powder: Add a chrome powder on top to give a more shimmery appearance.
4. Top coat: Finish your blueberry milk nails with a high-quality top coat to seal and protect the longevity of your polish.’

Polishes To Try At Home

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How Can We Switch It Up?

The simplest version of the trend is a set of monochromatic blue nails. While stunning on its own, those of you who want a slightly quirkier design can level up their manicure with added details such as blue French tips, swirls, flowers, stripes and more. See some ideas below for inspiration:

10 Ideas: Blueberry Milk Nails Inspiration

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Featured image: Anna Kumpan, Unsplash

The post How Blueberry Milk Nails Became Summer’s Biggest Nail Trend appeared first on Country and Town House.

How To Find The Best Electric Toothbrush

What is an electric toothbrush and how does it work?

‘An electric toothbrush is instantly recognisable as a toothbrush that makes rapid automatic bristle motions, either back-and-forth oscillation or rotation-oscillation, in order to clean your teeth,’ says Dr Reena Wadia, gum specialist and founder of RW Perio. ‘Typically powered by a rechargeable battery, an electric toothbrush moves a small brush head at high speed, rotating in different motions and vibrating against the teeth and gums to support with plaque removal.’

How does they differ from a manual toothbrush? Are they better for us to use?

On the whole, electric toothbrushes can be the best option for cleaning our teeth due to being gentler and better at plaque removal. ‘Although slightly more costly (but you don’t need to spend a fortune!), I do suggest that my patients invest in an electric toothbrush if they are not effectively brushing with a manual toothbrush,’ says Dr Sam Jethwa, Vice President of The British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and co-founder of Bespoke Smile. ‘They are much more effective at removing plaque and preventing cavities than a manual toothbrush. Over-brushing can also be avoided using an electric brush, as they generally have warnings that can indicate excess pressure, thus saving people from gum recession in some cases.’

Henrik Lagercrantz, Unsplash

Are there different types of electric toothbrushes? What’s the difference between them?

When it comes to electric toothbrushes, there are two types to choose from: oscillating and sonic. ‘Oscillating toothbrushes (as the name suggests) oscillate back and forth to help remove plaque, while rotary toothbrushes rotate in a circular motion,’ says Dr Wadia. ‘They both do a great job at removing plaque from the teeth compared to a manual toothbrush.’

‘The oscillating toothbrush will produce circular motions, whilst rotating to ensure all parts of the tooth are cleaned. The sonic toothbrush is similar to a manual toothbrush as the head is rectangular, this toothbrush works by using vibrations to clean the tooth and break through the plaque,’ adds Dr Jethwa. ‘Both types of electric toothbrush are effective, however you will have to work harder at your technique if using a sonic brush.

‘A lot of electric toothbrushes can come with a whitening mode. While this can be useful, if you are looking to whiten your teeth, then brushing alone will not give the best results, so try not to choose your toothbrush based on this. Consult your dentist to discuss teeth whitening treatments.’

What’s the best practice when using an electric toothbrush?

Use A Fluoride Toothpaste

‘In order to maintain healthy teeth and gums, it’s vital that people brush their teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste,’ highlights Dr Jethwa. ‘Failing to do so can lead to a build up of debris and plaque which results in decay and cavities. It’s important to use a fluoride toothpaste because fluoride has been extensively researched in terms of how it strengthens tooth enamel – the hard outer covering on teeth – and reverses tooth decay.’

Clean One Tooth At A Time

‘You need to place the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the spot where the gums and teeth meet, angle upwards for the upper teeth and downwards for the lower teeth,’ instructs Dr Wadia. ‘Spend a few seconds on each tooth. For those with established gum disease, you are likely to need more than two minutes.’

‘Your toothbrush should clean one tooth at a time, but this can vary depending on the size of your teeth or toothbrush,’ adds Dr Jethwa. ‘Thoroughly brushing your teeth will remove plaque – the sticky film which covers the teeth. Plaque forming is normal but, if it is not removed it can lead to poor oral health such as cavities and gum disease.

‘Once you have brushed the outside surface of the tooth, repeat from the inside of the mouth. So many people do not realise how important it is to brush their teeth from the inside of the mouth, not just the outside. Gently direct your brush along the gum line, tongue and roof of the mouth. You should brush your teeth for around two minutes, and many electric toothbrushes have timers for this so you can keep track.’

Don’t Apply Too Much Pressure

You should also avoid putting too much pressure on your teeth while brushing, says Dr Jethwa. ‘You do not need to press hard whilst brushing your teeth with an electric toothbrush. A lot of people make the mistake of thinking that the harder they brush their teeth the cleaner they’ll get. However, applying too much pressure to the toothbrush when brushing can damage the tooth enamel and also cause the gums to recede. I recommend an electric toothbrush that gives off a warning when too much pressure is applied.’

Polina Zimmerman, Pexels

What qualities should we look out for when looking to buy an electric toothbrush?

Dr Wadia recommends looking for toothbrushes wit sensors and timers: ‘Pressure sensors can ensure that you are not overbrushing as excessive pressure can harm both your teeth and gums. A two-minute timer is standard on most models; however, as it is recommended to spend 30 seconds per quadrant, some brushes signal when it is time to move area. Bluetooth is often used to connect to a phone app which can help track progress.’

‘When choosing your toothbrush, whether it is electric or manual, opt for one with bristles that will get between the teeth and into the gumline, as these are harder to reach with a rectangular manual toothbrush head,’ adds Dr Jethwa. ‘I would also recommend a toothbrush with a smaller, round brush head. Contrary to what one may think, this actually enables you to reach more of your mouth than a larger brush would, such as the wisdom teeth far back in the mouth.’

How often do you need to replace your electric toothbrush?

‘It’s advisable to change the head of your electric toothbrush every three to four months,’ says Dr Jethwa. ‘However, this does vary depending on the individual. If your bristles are splaying, looking worn out or feeling less stiff, then you should change it. This is because, if the bristles aren’t in good order and have lost their stiffness, they won’t be cleaning your teeth and gums effectively. It’s also advisable to change your toothbrush sooner if you’ve been unwell, in order to avoid the harbouring of germs on the brush.’

What else can you do to improve your oral health?

Below, Dr Wadia lists some of the things you can incorporate into your dental routine to ensure optimal oral health:

Tongue Scraping

‘Tongue scraping and cleaning can be a helpful part of your oral healthcare regime. The tongue is made up of lots of little crypts, which can harbour bacteria and debris. If these are not regularly removed, a tongue coating forms.’

Interdental Brushes & Floss 

‘Cleaning between your teeth is essential. If you don’t, it’s a bit like only washing one side of a dirty dish and then using it again. You need to clean all surfaces. Interdental brushes are ideal but if they don’t fit then use floss. Once a day is key. ’

Fluoride Toothpaste 

‘Always use a toothpaste containing fluoride. If you have specific issues like tooth sensitivity, find a toothpaste which helps tackle this. Always spit and don’t rinse out your mouth after using the toothpaste or it will wash away all the good stuff!’

Mouthwash  

‘This is great as a breath freshener but should be used at a different time to brushing or it will wash away all the ‘good stuff’ in the toothpaste.’

What’s The Best Electric Toothbrush?

Note that you should talk with your dentist or hygienist for the most effective recommendation, as they can identify the style and brand of brush best suited to your individual requirements.

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Featured image: Goby, Unsplash

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What Are The Health Benefits Of Tennis?

While tennis has always been popular, in recent years we’ve seen more Brits than ever take to the court in their leisure time. And this is much to our benefit, considering that a study by the British Journal of Sports Medicine revealed that tennis (and other racket-based sports) could help regular players live longer overall – stats specifically showed that tennis reduces the risk of all-cause mortality by 47 percent and cardiovascular disease by 56 percent – making it a certified win-win for us all.

But what are the specific health benefits of tennis? And are they only physical? We spoke to the experts to find out:

(c) Christian Tenguan, Unsplash

Playing Tennis Improves Hand-Eye Coordination

One of the most well-known benefits of tennis is its ability to improve your hand-eye coordination with practice. ‘Tennis requires good timing, being able to recognise where the ball is going to land and reacting quickly. You are also having to keep your eye on the ball at all times,’ says Penny Weston, director of Moddershall Oaks Country Spa Retreat and founder of MADE wellness centre.

‘Tennis is a fast-paced racquet sport and involves a lot of hand-eye coordination, plus a lot of strategy in your shot selection,’ adds Dean Zweck, Product Development Manager at Total Fitness. ‘This cognitive demand gives your brain a workout as well as your body.’

Penny also notes that this is a great skill for children to learn as they grow up: ‘Hand-eye coordination is especially important for children, as it can be the foundations for learning to write, read, draw, get dressed and play games. So, it is definitely worth investing some time in playing tennis with your children too – this could just be at home in the garden or in a park.’

You Can Tone & Strengthen Your Muscles

While a fun, social sport, it can’t be forgotten that tennis is still a workout at the end of the day. ‘Tennis is essentially a full body workout,’ highlights Penny. ‘Not only does tennis target our cardiovascular system, but it also increases our muscle mass too. Hitting the ball will tone your upper body muscles and core, as the motion of swinging engages the whole body – whereas running and jumping will tone the muscles in your lower body, such as the quads.

‘Tennis is also a good workout for the glutes; a lot of tennis players adopt a squatting stance for most of the game so they can quickly change direction and get across the court.’

And Get A Good Cardio Workout

A study by Tennis Australia revealed that, on average, men burn 600 calories and women 420 calories while playing an hour of tennis – making it a great all-round activity to take up. ‘Tennis has lots of physical benefits,’ says Dean. ‘With rapid movements such as sprinting around the court, changing direction and hitting the ball in a variety of strokes, competing against players who are of a similar standard or slightly better will ensure you get a great workout.’

‘Tennis allows our muscles to tone while at the same time improving our cardio, making it a great option if you’re looking to shape up or lose weight,’ adds Penny. ‘Tennis is great to incorporate into your lifestyle, especially during the summer months.’

(c) Valentin Balan, Unsplash

It’s Also A Great Way To Increase Focus & Concentration

You’ll often see tennis players deep in the zone while playing on the court, as they have to stay alert to keep track of the ball. ‘Tennis requires constant focus and concentration to track the ball, anticipate the opponent’s shots, and make split-second decisions,’ explains Dean. ‘Meaning it can be great for honing and enhancing mental alertness.’

Whacking A Ball Is (Unsurprisingly) A Great Stress Reliever

It should come as no surprise that smacking a ball up and down a court can help us express any lingering aggression from a particularly frustrating day, making it an ideal means of stress relief. As Penny explains: ‘Tennis is such a good sport for stress relief and improving your mood, as it can change the levels of chemicals in our brain such as stress hormones and endorphins. Tennis has also been proven to help with anxiety and depression. If you have had a bad day at work, there is nothing better than hitting a ball around a court to blow off some steam!’

The Social Aspect Is Great For Your Mental Health

Tennis is an incredibly social sport – outside of tournaments, you’ll often see people picking up rackets to play games with friends throughout the summer. Joining local tennis clubs can also help you meet new people and form friendships outside of your regular circles.

A recent poll by MADE wellness centre found that out of their clients that played tennis, three out of five enjoy it for the social aspect. ‘Tennis is great because not only do you get a good workout in, but you also spend time socialising – both of which are great for boosting our serotonin and endorphin levels. Whether it is singles or doubles, there will always be someone else involved,’ adds Penny.

‘I also love tennis because most of the time it is played outdoors; sunshine naturally boosts your production of the feel-good hormones and the fresh air will help you sleep better, so getting out in the fresh air can help you feel invigorated and energised.’

‘Tennis isn’t a fun game to play by yourself,’ adds Dean. ‘Whether you are playing against an opponent or in doubles, tennis is a fantastic way to workout and spend time with friends (unless one of them happens to be uber-competitive).’

Featured image: Valentin Balan, Unsplash

The post How Playing Tennis Could Benefit Your Health appeared first on Country and Town House.

What To Do In London This Weekend

Fashion & Beauty Pop-Ups In London To Visit This Month

Allbirds Carbon Concept Store at Selfridges

B Corp footwear brand Allbirds is stepping back into London with a new pop-up in Selfridges’ Wonder Room and a display in its accompanying Oxford Street window. Centred around the theme of carbon reduction, the pop-up aims to highlight how reducing the planet’s carbon emissions is key to solving the climate crisis – and uses this space to educate and contextualise carbon for visitors to the store. Allbirds communicates the impact of carbon on the fashion industry with a fun visual display, using a large, black sphere to show what 1 kg of CO2 looks like and mini spheres next to a row of shoes to visualise their respective carbon emissions. The pop-up will also unveil a prototype of the new M0.0NSHOT shoe, which boasts a landmark carbon footprint of net 0.0 kg CO2e.

When? 3 July to 13 August 2023

Where? Allbirds, Selfridges Wonder Room, Ground Floor, 400 Oxford Street, London W1A W1B

EXPLORE: allbirds.co.uk

SKIMS Corner Shop, Selfridges

The first-ever European pop-up from SKIMS has landed in Selfridge’s Corner Shop space in London, showcasing an array of swimwear for holiday season. The pop-up, designed in partnership with the brand’s long-time collaborator Willo Perron of Perron-Roettinger, has been transformed into an LA poolside oasis. Working up a sweat? While shopping, be sure to get your hands on some custom SKIMS ice cream treats by Chin Chin Labs.

When? 12 June to 8 July 2023

Where? Selfridges, 400 Oxford St, London W1A 1AB

EXPLORE: selfridges.com

Pomellato at Harrods

Harrods is bringing Milan to London with its latest pop-up, with an immersive experience for shoppers celebrating Pomellato’s new emerald Catene capsule (created exclusively for Harrods). Starting with a window display facing Brompton Road, the pop-up spans over three rooms – the Galleria, Atelier and Theatre – each inspired by Milan’s architecture, savoir-faire, and elegance. Explore Pomellato’s iconic collections, see the craftsmanship that goes into each design, and take a closer look at some of the jeweller’s one-of-a-kind creations.

When? 16 June to 19 July 2023

Where? On the ground floor of the fine jewellery department of Harrods

EXPLORE: harrods.com

Lush’s Asteroid City Pop-Up

If it’s not TikTok trends and immersive experiences, Wes Anderson is taking over London with on-theme pop-up stores in celebration of his latest film Asteroid City. Lush has teamed up with Focus Features to bring a new gift shop to its Soho studio, where visitors can grab a free slushy and browse the new commemorative four-piece Lush collection. The pastel-coloured cafe is a must see for Wes Anderson and bath bomb fans alike.

When? 8 June to 12 July 2023 | Open Monday to Friday (closed at weekends) from 12pm – 6pm

Where? Lush Studio Soho, 67-71 Beak St, Carnaby, London W1F 9SW

EXPLORE: lush.com

Nobody’s Child

Fashion brand Nobody’s Child has announced it will be opening three new pop-ups in London this summer, starting with a space in Covent Garden (which opened on 3 May) measuring just under 2,000 square feet. Later this month, Nobody’s Child will expanding into Kings Road – which will house its bestselling collections, as well as pieces from the Boutique and Happy Place by Fearne Cotton collections – and in June, it will launch another in Spitalfields. ‘At Nobody’s Child, we continue to strive to make an impact via our responsible collections which are accessible for all women,’ said Jody Plows, CEO of Nobody’s Child. ‘There is plenty to come for Nobody’s Child growth for the rest of 2023 both in the UK and internationally, so we are thrilled to announce these three pop-ups today as part of that journey.’

When? Throughout May, June and July 2023

Where? Various locations in Covent Garden, Kings Road and Spitalfields

EXPLORE: nobodyschild.com

 

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Hunza G at Seven Dials

Craving sunny days at the beach? Find yourself one step close to summer with Hunza G’s new pop-up in Seven Dials, which opens just in time for the May bank holiday. Nestled in the heart of Covent Garden, the space has been kitted out in the signature Hunza G pink and features body diverse mannequins and custom artwork by London-based artist Alba Hodsoll. Head down for your chance to shop store exclusives and events.

When? From 29 April until the end of summer

Where? 35-37 Monmouth Street, London WC2H 9DD

EXPLORE: hunzag.com

Featured image: Allbirds pop up store at Selfridges

The post Fashion & Beauty Pop-Ups In London To Visit This Month appeared first on Country and Town House.

The Best SPF Lip Balms For Soft Summer Lips

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Featured image: Henry Gillis, Unsplash

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The Best Face SPF Creams For All Skin Types

Just because it isn’t summer, it doesn’t mean your sun care regime should be on pause. Sunscreen is the single most important step in your daily skincare regime, all year round, and not just to protect your skin from harmful UVB rays. As you may know, there are two main types of UV rays that we need to be aware of. UVB rays, which get the worst press, are the ones that can cause burning and increase the risks of skin cancer. UVA rays, which can also penetrate clouds and windows, make up 95% of UV radiation that reaches the earth, and are the ones that contribute to premature skin ageing due to their ability to penetrate deeply into the skin and contribute to DNA damage via the creation of free radicals. Not only does daily application of a face SPF reduce your risk of sun damage and photoaging, but studies suggest that it could also help to reverse or reduce the damage.

The Ultimate SPF Guide

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Does It Do What It Says On The Tin?

Some studies have suggested that almost all sunscreens underperform against their advertised SPF rating, however, the same study showed that layering sunscreen with makeup could compensate for the shortfall. Therefore, wearing sunscreen underneath your makeup as a daily ritual, or even layering two different sunscreens could be a good daily practice.

Main image: by Jakob Owens on Unsplash

The post Daily Face SPF Creams To Protect & Hydrate appeared first on Country and Town House.

The Country & Town House Responsible Buyers’ Guide

10 Products For Glowing Summer Skin

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Featured image: Apple Bautista, Unsplash

The post Summer Skin Goals: 10 Products For Glowing Skin This Season appeared first on Country and Town House.