Hilary Lowry, Author at Beauty Haven Belfast Online

Author Archives: Hilary Lowry

Skincare for the boys.
October 9, 2019 10:58 am Comments Off on Skincare for the boys.
No one wants to spend longer than necessary getting their skincare regime right. I believe most of the ladies have got the timing down to a fine art. Practice makes perfect and no doubt you guys will remember the first time you shaved – how long did that take? Whether its dry or wet shaving trimming your beard or applying pre-shave products and aftershave balms and gels. The skin underneath the beard needs to be looked after.

Facial hair takes moisture away from the skin, so its important to use a daily face wash to clean away bacteria and grease. A twice weekly facial scrub for a deeper cleanse and to minimise ingrown hairs. Facial hair is thicker and coarser than the hair on your head. Use a dedicated beard shampoo and conditioner, otherwise normal shampoo will strip the beard of natural oils. Beard oil not only softens the facial hair it also hydrates the skin. Some can find a beard oil is too greasy, one size does not fit all, as far as beard products go its finding the one that will work for you.

Did you know ?

Male skin is 30% thicker than female skin and does produce more oil. The same cleansing and moisturising routine applies to both genders so if you don’t know where to start, heres a list of key products to consider:

Scrubs and exfoliators. So how do you pick an exfoliator amongst the many that are available. There are two types of exfoliator:-
1. Physical exfoliators buff away dead skin cells by means of a fine grit or bead.
2. Chemical exfoliators contain an acid that breaks down the bonds that holds dead skin cells together. The results will reveal fresh skin underneath.
Do avoid overly abrasive scrubs so as not to alter the skins barrier function which protects the skin from pollutions and keeping those nasties out of the body.

Facial cleansers are used to keep your skin clean without drying it out like soap can. Choose a mild wash to start with unless you have very dry skin, opting for a cream cleanser in this case would be better.

Why use a toner? A toner removes any remaining residue after using your cleanser. A toner will also close the pores and leave the skin refreshed.

Moisturisers – Not only will a moisturising cream and lotion will keep your skin hydrated, moisturised and supple, it also provides a barrier protecting the skin from free radicals.

Eye creams and gels are used to protect this very fine skin and to keep the skin around the eyes young and free from fine lines and wrinkles.

Some of our recommendations …..

Dermalogica skin prep scrub. A skin polishing scrub for all skin conditions. Gently removes dulling surface debris, allowing for improved absorption of moisturisers.

Dermalogica daily microfoliant. This is a rice based exfoliating powder which activates with water to polish skin to achieve a brighter, smoother skin with fewer visible pores.

Dermalogica special cleansing gel. Soap free cleansing gel suitable for all skin types, the refreshing lather thoroughly removes impurities.

Dermalogica Age Reversal Eye Complex is one of our top best sellers. The advance micro encapsulated Retinol helps smooth away the signs of ageing. Well worth the price tag of £66. A little goes a long way

Dermalogica skin smoothing cream. The improved formula of this moisturiser now with 48 hours of continuous hydration.

Environ Mild Cleansing Lotion. A lovely cream cleanser applied to damp skin and gently massage over the face and neck before removing with warm water. Can be used morning and/or evening.

Environ Low Foam Cleansing Lotion. Use in the same way as above, the only difference is this cleanser is a foam wash.

Environ Botanical Infused Moisturising Toner. After cleansing moisten cotton wool with this moisturising toner and gently apply to the face and neck. Can be used morning and/or evening.

Environ AVST moisturiser 1. The beauty about this moisturiser is it works on a step-up system, commencing with level 1 and working your way up through the levels to give more Vitamin A on each different level.

Environ Vita-Peptide Eye Gel is our top selling eye gel for men and women. Packed with essential vitamins, peptides and antioxidants which reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Last and by no means least protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays by always wearing a broad spectrum sunscreen. Everyday I apply Environ RAD antioxidant sunscreen with UVA & UVB protection and a SPF15.

Don’t be afraid to ask for advice, using the right product will help you achieve a smooth and radiant complexion.
Avance Elixir Product Review: The Best Serum for Your Skincare Routine
October 2, 2019 11:27 am Comments Off on Avance Elixir Product Review: The Best Serum for Your Skincare Routine
This product is a must for improving the three signs of ageing – dehydration, wrinkles and pigmentation. Prior to using this I was using the Avance moisturiser Tri-Peptide Complex, the Elixer is a new supercharged version …. you need this in your life. This powerhouse formulation containing Mĕiritage™ and three peptide complexes helps to minimise the visible signs of ageing and sun damage.

This serum leaves the skin looking radiant, luminous and youthful.

The magic ingredient is Měiritage, a unique blend of extracts from Chinese roots used in traditional medicine, which has been shown to be effective in reducing the effects of oxidative stress (UV radiation and pollution) and lightening the appearance of uneven skin tone.

It also contains a combination of three powerful peptide complexes that target the 3 main signs of ageing – Dehydration, Wrinkles & Pigmentation.

So if you are concerned with the signs of ageing, lines & wrinkles or pigmentation you should consider adding this product into your regime.

The product will help to reduce the damaging effects of UV radiation and pollution on the skin, it assists in maintaining the appearance of a more radiant, youthful and even complexion and will improve the skin’s overall tone, texture and appearance by helping to minimise the visible signs of ageing.

The product retails at £82 – worth every penny.
Product Review – Environ Skin Essentia Low foam cleansing gel
September 17, 2019 6:54 pm Comments Off on Product Review – Environ Skin Essentia Low foam cleansing gel
I love this cleanser mostly because I love using a facial wash, it leaves my skin feeling so clean.

A wash isn’t for everyone though, if for example you have a dry skin, a facial wash can leave your skin feeling quite dry. I have always had an oily skin so this cleansing gel which contains a combination of various surfactants and conditioning agents, removes excess oil, make-up and surface impurities while assisting in maintaining skin’s natural moisture balance. It rinses off easily and leaves skin feeling refreshed and clean. The clue is in the name, ‘low foam’ so don’t expect this to foam up as some facial washes will, it foams just very slightly. You can of course add in a pre cleanse, before you use your low foam cleansing gel, an option that not everyone can be bothered with, however if this is a step you are used to, I can recommend Environ pre cleanse oil which is lovely. I follow up with a toner, serum, eye gel and moisturiser. It may sound like a lot but in reality takes no more than 5 minutes.

Low Foam Cleansing Gel retails at £37. I usually get about 2 months out of a bottle.

For advice on any of the Environ range please book a consultation, we can analyse the skin and advise you what products are best for you.
Is Electrolysis for you, your top 5 checklist
September 9, 2019 8:50 am Comments Off on Is Electrolysis for you, your top 5 checklist
There are many factors that cause unwanted hair growth on the face and body. The most common reason is an increase in hormones in the body called androgens. The most common form of this is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). The exact cause is unknown but its normally genetic, and relates to abnormal hormone levels of insulin. This contributes to the increased production and activity of hormones like testosterone.

Another reason is due to the menopause, with a drop in oestrogen, the hormone testosterone takes over. More oestrogen gives you the fine, light, soft hair while more testosterone gives the course dark hair. Testosterone converts to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) with many menopausal women experiencing an increase in hair appearing on upper lip, chin, neck and jaw line. This can be the big blow to our femininity and confidence, but don’t despair, help is at hand.

Electrolysis is the only permanent hair removal system on the market. Beauty Haven are successfully treating clients for this growing treatment and have been for over 14 years.

Our checklist may help you decide if electrolysis is for you.
- Am I suitable for electrolysis?
Unlike laser treatments which are suitable for dark hair only is that electrolysis is suitable for all colouring of hair and all skin types can be treated. As long as the hair is visible the hair can be successfully treated.
- Is electrolysis a permanent hair solution.
Do you want to permanently get rid of hair on your face. Those annoying hairs that you notice in bathroom mirror, and worse still car mirrors that seem to highlight them even more. Then electrolysis may be the answer to your prayers. This treatment is safe and very effective and has been proved successful for over 140 years.
- Does electrolysis hurt?
Everyone is different and it does depend on your pain threshold and also which area is being treated. A fine needle is inserted into the hair follicle which is barely noticeable, then a current is passed down into the root for instant removal, a slight tingling/heat sensation is felt. Some areas are a little more tender than others especially the centre of the upper lip, however a topical anaesthetic can be purchased at any pharmacy should you have a low pain threshold.
- How long will it take?
Electrolysis treatment times are normally from 5 mins to 30 mins depending on the area being worked on. The first treatment with Beauty Haven we would recommend a 10 minute slot and work towards a longer time if required.
- How successful is electrolysis?
Not only is electrolysis permanent but it targets specific hairs rather than stimulating other finer blonde hairs which then return darker or thicker. Many clients ask how long it will take for the hair to be gone forever. There is no set time frame for this as it does depend on the reason for additional hair growth. On average I would say up to 18 months. As the time progresses you will notice less hairs are reappearing and you will get a longer time between each treatment. At the beginning of treatments it could be that your treatment frequency is weekly and gradually extends to fortnightly then to monthly and so on. It will get to the point where top ups are required 2 or 3 times a year and eventually no more treatments required.

A small sample of some of the reviews our customers kindly sent to us.

“Very friendly staff, felt very welcome” Lisa 11^th July 2019

“As always a fantastic service from the brilliant staff – an oasis of peace and tranquility”. Elizabeth 11^th July 2019

“5 out of 5” Oonagh 23^rd July 2019

“Therapist was quick, kind and answered all my questions. Felt totally relaxed”. Lorna 21^st Aug 2019

Our client list is growing everyday and we have three therapists available to treat you successfully with our electrolysis machine. We would advise booking a few appointments in advance to ensure you get a time slot that is suitable for you.

If you have any further questions with regards to electrolysis please do call Beauty Haven and we would be delighted to discuss your requirements and offer a treatment plan to suit you.
Best Sunscreens 2019
August 28, 2019 7:44 pm Comments Off on Best Sunscreens 2019
The summer may be behind us but its important to protect your skin from UV damage all year long The importance of protecting your skin from the sun is the one thing Doctors, Dermatologists and Beauty experts all agree on.

What does the jargon actually mean?

UVA and UVB comes from the UV radiation of the sun. UVA affects the elastin in the skin which leads to ageing and wrinkles. UVA protection in a sunscreen will help protect the skin against photo ageing and skin cancer.

Did you know?

There are two different types of sunscreen Physical and Chemical Sunscreen.
- Chemical sunscreen absorbs into the skin and then absorbs UV rays, converts the rays into heat, and releases them from the body. The active ingredients in chemical sunscreens include avobenzone, octinoxate and oxybenzone.
- Physical sunblock sits on top of the skin and reflects the sun’s rays. The minerals titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are the main active ingredients in physical blocks.
Which should you choose;

Physical sunblock tends to be:
- Less irritating and a better fit for sensitive skin.
- More moisturising, which can feel heavy on the skin.
- Difficult to fully blend into the skin. However, newer brands now offer matte and tinted versions that have less of a white cast and can give the skin a smooth, even appearance.
Chemical sunscreen is a better option if you:
- Need a water-resistant formulation.
- Play sports or find that you sweat a lot during the day.
- Want a sunscreen that absorbs quickly into the skin.
The two main objectives to a sunscreen are to provide protection.
1. Protecting the skin from burning in the sun.
2. Protecting the skin against cancer and age accelerating sunlight.
If you ask a skin specialist about sun bathing they would advise that a tanned skin is a damaged skin. It states on the British Association of Dermatologists website “A tan is actually a sign that the skin has been damaged and is trying to protect itself”.

Theres no doubt we do require Vitamin D and this is where we all get so confused, do we go out in the sun or not? A low level of sun is beneficial, we can of course top up on our Vitamin D intake with diet or supplements.

Some of our favourite products:

Environ RAD SPF 15 is a UVA and UVB broad spectrum medium protection for the face and body and can be worn under make-up. Suitable for all skin types and all ages over 6 months.
- The key ingredient is Titanium Dioxide that reflects the sun’s radiation.
The UVA and UVB absorbent filters – Ethyl Methoxycinnamates and Butyl Dibenzoglmethane are low chemical content with high protection that absorbs part of the sun’s radiation and diffuses the energy.
- Packed full of Vitamins C & E with Betacarotene, antioxidants for enhanced skin protection.
- This three way reflective, antioxidant and defence sun screen is also water resistant.
A perfect all rounder which I apply every morning.

Mesoestetic Moisturising Sun Protection SPF 50+ is a perfect light weight daily moisturiser. The broad spectrum UVA and UVB gives very high sun protection for all skin types including sensitive and post-procedure.
- Tioveil AQN is a powerful, hypoallergenic physical sunscreen, while Parsol MCX is a chemical filter with no systemic absorption.
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery is used as a facial moisturiser to help combat the appearance of fine lines and help control the triggers that lead to skin aging. Blends smoothly over the skin for a perfect finish. This medium weight daily moisturiser is an emollient with Broad Spectrum SPF 50. Provides long lasting hydration and critical protection against UV light with the active sunscreen protecting against UVA and UVB rays

This moisturiser is gluten free, vegan, and contains no artificial fragrances and colours, paraben free and cruelty free.

Whichever sunscreen you decide on using always check reviews before purchasing and stay safe, cool and protected in the sun.
Weekly Product Review. Sebu Tone Clarifier
August 20, 2019 8:58 pm Comments Off on Weekly Product Review. Sebu Tone Clarifier
The focus clarity range from Environ has been designed to improve problematic skin and promote a healthy, clearer skin. The range promotes a 3 stage system to target breakouts and is recommended alongside salon treatments for optimum results.

Recently my skin has been particularly oily, resulting in more breakouts than usual and a high shine throughout the day. This can be a pain having to top up my make up regularly and unusual for me so I decided to try the Sebu- Tone Clarifer. The product is a toner containing lactic acid to help smooth the appearance of the skin and remove excess oils. I’ve only been using for a couple of weeks but it has definitely made a difference already. I’ve added this is with my normal environ products, low foam cleanser and AVST 3 however for breakout prone skin the sebu wash cleanser and ACE oil would be a better option, luckily for me I don’t suffer the breakouts that often go hand in hand with oily skin, so I haven’t as yet felt the need to change my cleanser and moisturiser.

Should you decide to try the Focus Clarity range, we recommend using it alongside the Environ Purifying treatment. The main aim of this facial is to enhance penetration of the products into the dermis assisting with the treatment of acne, scaring and deep congestion. We have numerous customers who have reported fantastic results with the combined use of products alongside this treatment.

Environ is a prescription only range and may not be suitable for everyone, please make sure you seek advice before purchasing.

Top