If you have tried retinols and been discouraged by redness and irritation, then you may want to try the new Avène Rétrinal 0.05 and 0.1 Creams. They are specially-designed, with a patented type of retinal called Retinaldehyde and Vitamin E to help reduce lines without irritation. Retinaldehyde is one of most effective and non-irritating forms of Vitamin A.

Are you having a big night out with your honey, but feeling and looking dreary? Try a mask to perk up your face and spirits. A gentle hydrating mask can do wonders for a tired face. Elizabeth Grant’s Cucumber Gel Mask contains soothing botanical extracts of cucumber as well Elizabeth Grant’s anti-aging ingredient Torricelumn. I love this soothing and calming mask; it leaves my skin soft, refreshed, and dewy. It’s the perfect pick-me-up before a night out. This is also the perfect soothing mask for dry, red sun abused skin. It rehydrates and plumps without irritation.
 

Update your look with this romantic fall hair trend. Put your hair into a loose updo. Don’t worry if it isn’t perfect, that is part of the charm. Add a glittered hair band for a straight-from-the-runway touch.

Triple Mushroom Cream by Grassroots  is just luscious. It also has impressive ingredients. It’s not surprising as Grassroots is made by Estee Lauder for Kohl’s.

Did you know that sweet tasty watermelon is a natural beauty booster? Well, darlings it is. Watermelon is full of Vitamins C and A, and beta-carotene. Vitamin C is necessary to build collagen and keep you skin from sagging. So always be sure to get plenty of it in your diet. It also speeds healing. Watermelon is also rich in lycopene, as are all red, pink, and yellow fruits and vegetables. Lycopene is an antioxidant that helps protect your body against cancer and heart disease. It also helps to reduce LDL or bad cholesterol. The benefits of lycopene are well documented. Watermelon is also full of water, making it perfect for dieters at only 48 calories a cup. Studies show that eating water-saturated fiber-rich foods significantly aids any sensible weight loss plan.

No time for a pedicure? Don’t stress darlings! A quick DYI job is snap. Use an emery board to shape your nails into a very slight oval shape. I find nails are easier to shape with the polish still on.  After filing, remove any old polish.  In a pretty clean jar, mix 2 tbsp of olive oil with ¾ cup of kosher salt or brown sugar, and add a few drops of essential oil or your favourite perfume. Rub it into your feet. Don’t forget your toes. Take a shower or bathe, and wash off the oil. Brush on a top coat and two coats of polish. Add a top coat, if you have time. Studies show that red drives men mad — if you care. My favourite is Revlon Red. It’s a classic that suits all skin tones, doesn’t chip, and you can buy it anywhere. If you want a pale shade, try Revlon’s Sheer Rose, it is a gorgeous shade that can show off a tan. Total time 15 minutes max, not including the drying time, and your feet will look fabulous. If your hands look less than fabulous, give them the same treatment, but finish with a coat of Sheer Rose or clear to avoid chips. If you love drama, go for Revlon’s Valentine – a deep sexy shade.

This is the perfect me-thing to do before a busy weekend while catching up on your favourite magazines or watching an episode of Mad Men!

TriSwim hair and body collection was created to battle what my friends and I used to call “pool hair” — the effects of chlorine on your hair and body. Swimming is great, but the chemicals that keep pools safe and clean can leave hair and skin looking and feeling beat-up! Skin becomes dry, and hair can even start to “grab” the chemicals. Blonds may even notice a greenish chemical tinge. TriSwim Shampoo removes the chemicals, TriSwim Lotion soothes skin, while TriSwim Conditioner pampers hair without build-up. There is also a spray lubricant to prevent chafing during sports. Designed by a former sportswoman, the products have aloe and citrus. Tri-Swim products are light, but effective. www.tri-swim.com

Darlings, I love summer, but the strong sun can play havoc with your hair colour. Even a short time in the light can fade pricy salon highlights or colour. Protect your hair and scalp as you do your face. Redken Color Extend Sun Solar Screen SPF 12 protects against UVA and UVB rays. It helps to moisturize, as well as protect, with ceramides and mango oil. You can use it on wet or dry hair.

 Do you pass up certain things when you’re out because you know they will stain your teeth? Now you don’t have to. Colgate Wisps are tiny little waterless toothbrushes that you can stash in your bag or pocket. They clean your teeth and freshen your breath, and now they whiten, too. Wisps Plus Whitening ensures you are kissing-fresh and picture-perfect — even if you have the blueberry pie and the Pinot Noir.