Category Archives: Beauty & Grooming

Why a Caesarian Can be a Positive Birth Experience

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Catherine Balavage I didn’t give enough thought to how my son would be born. I just knew it would be painful. I would put the baby clothes, we bought, to my bump and wonder at just how lucky we were to be having a child. It felt like such a happy miracle it didn’t even feel real, even as he kicked inside me. Little did I know just how hard his birth would be.

I went into labour with a positive mindset. I am a worrier by nature so I can’t say there were not moments when I did not contemplate the worst, but overall, I was feeling strong, happy and positive. We were so excited to finally meet our son. For such a worrier, I wasn’t that worried. The human race has survived thousands of years. Women have given birth at home, in caves and even in cars. It was going to hurt but I have always had a high pain threshold. I was confident I could manage the birth. So when I went into labour on a Sunday evening I did not think it would be long until we met our child. What followed was over 80 hours of hell followed by something glorious: a C section.

A lot of negativity is said about the C section. Some people claim it is the easy choice, it isn’t, the recovery is a bitch.  Others say it isn’t natural, it may not be ‘natural’ but it has saved countless human lives so hurray for medical science. I, however, have nothing but praise. After 80 hours of labour our son was in distress, the umbilical cord was wrapped around his neck twice and his heartbeat kept on dropping. I switched off and just concentrated on the best case scenario, knowing that panic would just make the situation worse.

As the surgeon who did my caesarean explained why I should have an emergency caesarian she looked almost like an angel to me. Within twenty minutes, my son was born. The obstetrician team at Kingston Hospital who did my C section were amazing. Despite being paralysed from the waist down and being naked underneath my hospital gown I felt safe. They were truly wonderful and I still think of them when I look at my little boy. My little boy who’s life they saved. The midwife even stayed with me the entire time, from the morning when my baby was in distress, until just after noon when he was born. There is an obsession with natural birth these days, and as I was wheeled into the theatre I did feel like I had failed, but the only thing that really matters about childbirth is a healthy mother and child. How that happens doesn’t matter in the end, and that is never more true than when they put the baby in your arms. My C section was not only a positive experience, it saved the life of my son. What could possibly be negative about that?

 

 

NSpa Mum To Be Nourishing Stretchmark Oil Review

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NSPA Mum to Be Nourishing Stretch Mark Oil

nspa is an exclusive skincare brand available at Asda.com. They have a Mum To Be range which includes a Nourishing Stretch Mark Oil. It retails at £6 and it’s enriched with sweet almond and jojoba to moisturise and nourish. I have had some stretchmarks for a while now and they really annoy me. I used nspa Nourishing Stretch Mark Oil twice a day. In a few months they do fade. The oil absorbs well and I really like the smell. Overall I am impressed and would continue to use it.

I would buy nspa Nourishing Stretch Mark Oil. It is only £6 and works well.

Re-Gen Oil Review | Beauty

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re-genoil stretch mark oil review

スロット マシンは、日本のオンライン jcb 入金 カジノで最も人気のあるゲームの 1 つです。簡単にプレイでき、戦略もほとんど必要ありませんが、何時間でも楽しめます。プログレッシブ スロット、クラシック スロット、ジャックポット ゲームなど、いくつかの種類のスロットを利用できます。日本のオンラインカジノには、これらのゲームが豊富に用意されています。これらには、人気のあるクラシック スロット、プログレッシブ ジャックポット ゲーム、ビデオ スロットが含まれます。

日本のオンラインカジノではカスタマーサポートも重要視されています。日本のオンライン カジノのカスタマー サービス エージェントは、新規プレイヤーからの質問や問い合わせに対応します。これらのプレーヤーは友好的で忍耐強いことが知られているため、カスタマーサポートスタッフが知識を持ち、ニーズに対応することが重要です.幸いなことに、多くのオンライン カジノには、専任のカスタマー サービス エージェントのチームがあります。

日本に住んでいる場合は、無認可のインターネット カジノでのプレイを避けるようにしてください。ボーナスは魅力的ですが、これらのカジノはプレイする価値がないかもしれません。常に評判の良い有名なオンラインカジノを選びましょう。 Web サイトの評価が高く、信頼できるものであれば、安全であると確信できます。

日本のオンラインカジノは、最新の暗号化方法を使用して機密データを保護する必要があります. SSL 暗号化を使用することは、個人情報を保護するための最良の方法の 1 つです。これらの Web サイトは、絶えず変化するプライバシーおよびインターネット セキュリティの規制に準拠する必要があります。さらに、ほとんどの日本のオンライン カジノは、新規プレイヤーに魅力的なボーナスを提供しています。そのようなサイトでプレイするためにサインアップした人は、多くの場合、10 ～ 25% の範囲のウェルカム ボーナスを受け取る資格があります。

カジノを選択することは重要な決定であり、プレイヤーはサインアップする前に各カジノを調査する必要があります。日本の多くのオンラインカジノは複数の言語を提供しているため、プレイヤーは自分に合った言語を選択できます.それらの一部は、プリペイド バウチャーやデジタル通貨など、アカウントに入金するための便利な方法も提供しています。ビットコインは日本では合法ではありませんが、国内の主要なオンライン カジノで受け入れられています。

日本ではオンライン ギャンブルは合法ですが、選択したカジノのすべての規則と規制に従うことが重要です。無許可の Web サイトでのプレイは、日本から禁止されているか、他の国への展開が禁止されている可能性があるため、避けることが重要です。合法性に関係なく、日本のオンラインカジノは一流のゲームを提供しています。

日本のオンラインカジノの法律は複雑です。ランドベースのカジノは国内では合法ですが、外国のオペレーターは起訴のリスクを最小限に抑えています.法律に違反した者は、小額の罰金を科される可能性があります。しかし、幸いなことに、日本のプレーヤーを歓迎するオフショア事業者がいます。日本の法律はシンガポールの法律と似ています。

Re-Gen is a range of specialised skin care products that helps improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks and uneven skin tone. Re-Gen products range are formulated using Vitamins A and E, as well as calendula, lavender and rosemary oil. They also contain PCL liquid (PCL Liquid is a laboratory recreation of the preen gland oil of ducks) which treats skin by producing a thin hydrophobic film on the area of skin treated, preventing it from drying out.

I have been using Re-Gen Oil on my stretchmarks for a while now and they are definitely less noticeable. They have faded from the angry purple they were. They are still a little pink, I am confident that they will become more silvery and less noticeable with continued use. The oil also smells nice. Considering how good Re-Gen oil is, I am impressed at how affordable it is. The RRP is £5.99 for 75ml and £7.99 for 125ml. High quality and easy on the purse: what more could you want?

Re-Gen Oil is available here. and from leading high street retailers such as Bodycare, Home Bargains and Quality Save, as well as ASDA.com

Hydropetide Product Review

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I was asked to do a Hydropetide Product Review recently. I was lucky enough to be sent a few items to try out. And they have become my go to face care over the last 2 months. Now you all know I try all sorts of beauty products being in the professional industry. I won’t just do a review after 2-5 days either. I like to give the product a chance for my skin cells to catch up. You need around 28 days to really see a difference when using something new. This is the length of time it takes for the skin to renew itself from base layer to the dermis. Samples of things you get in Boots or drug stores really are only to check that your not allergic to the products. So don’t be disappointed if that new cream doesn’t preform as well as you think it should. Their are 2 main factors to this…One is the reason I have explained and the other is that the strength of over the counter skin care is usually like making a cupa with a tea bag that’s been used 10 times or so!!! So watered down its no wonder those wrinkles aren’t vanishing faster. Pro products are always a better investment.

First up is Solar Defense, it’s a broad spectrum sun protector. This basically means it has both UVA and UVB filters. UVA’s are the nasty rays that age the skin and UVB’s are the ones that will burn. In turn if you burn their are further UVC Rays that harm the skin in the form of cancer. So ladies and gents wear a broad spectrum factor cream every day of every year. Come rain or shine. I’m always told my skin is perfect…Well it’s a combination of a healthy diet, loads of water and incredible skin care.

Hydropetide Product Review

Solar Defence glides on and its consistency feels slightly grainy at first but then the micro beads burst delivering its benefits to the skin. It blends and self adjusts to the natural skin tones you already have. It is quite frankly amazing. It smoothes out the completion and flawlessly covers the skin all ready for your foundation. It also contains anti inflammatories and antioxidants. This will help you fight the horrid signs of ageing and be your new best friend I can assure you of that!

It’s a non-greasy oil free sunscreen packed with moister. Really rich in protein and it also helps to decrease the secretion of oil that can build up though it the day. You know that shiny lack lustre appearance you might get mid afternoon, when all you really want to do is reapply your foundation once again.

With is skin adjusting properties it perfectly camouflages mild hyperpigmentation and redness. It creates a perfect even, flawless, matte finish. Containing Aloe, niacin and hyaluronic acid it perfectly balances hydration. In turn it transforms fine lines and wrinkles. Now that’s what us women in our 40’s really need.

Eye Authority cream immediately brightens any dark circles you may have and it softens expression lines. It will decrease wrinkles and lastly it helps banish puffiness. Phew that’s a lot to expect isn’t it. But after using this for 6 weeks I can honestly say it works. Now my first impression of this was a little different…it irritated my eyes. Yes I’m honest with you all. This was in fact all my own fault. You need the smallest amount and one tube should actually last you 6 months. The rate I was putting it on it would have only lasted me all of 3-4 weeks!! Less is more in this case! It contains Hesperdin known for its warming and circulatory benefits. Hence the eye irritation after applying a large pea sized amount around each eye! I have noticed (after using a 1/8 of a pea size little drop to each eye) a lift to my eyes and my dark circles are a thing of the past.

It contains 13 different peptides and a small amount of HA (hyaluronic acid) that perfectly hydrate the eyes. Normally you have to avoid using HA around the delicate eye area as it will cause puffiness. HA holds 1000 times its body weight in water so it’s really hydrating and can plump out the skin. Perfect for the face but not around the eyes. Eye Authority has just the right amount that smoothes out pesky fine lines perfectly without causing eye make up to crease or feel heavy. Just don’t use too much! Both products are firmly in my bathroom cabinet and will be I feel for a long time! They have an extensive range of lifting products I’m keen to review now after finding this brand.

 

Johnnie Walker Red Label Takes It To The Wax…

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Key visual CompressedTASTY ‘TACHE FOR THOSE IN THE MO…

– Whisky experts unveil the first ever moustache wax that enhances the flavour of your drink –

On 7th July 2015, Johnnie Walker® Red Label – the world’s most iconic whisky released an innovative range of moustache waxes in three bold flavours.

Designed to specifically compliment the Johnnie and Ginger serve – a fiery blend of Johnnie Walker Red Label whisky, ginger ale and a wedge of lime – The Boldest Wax collection has been expertly mixed by hand using 100% natural beeswax.

Connoisseurs will be able to choose from three bold blends – Piperine Pepper, Citrus Essence or Ginger Root – which not only provide scents that linger beneath the nostrils, but equally intensifies the flavour of the serve with every sip.

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Mixologist Rich Woods, Head of Cocktail and Spirit Development at Duck & Waffle and Sushi Samba, says:

The citrus wax delivers real energy, and the flavours work together to give the drink a boost that really lifts a Johnnie & Ginger. This stands in contrast to the Piperine Pepper, which subtly brings out the more sophisticated fruit and caramel aromas in the drink. Finally there’s the Ginger Root, which delivers an immediate kick – and is definitely one for those who prefer a more fiery experience.

The collaboration is in response to the growing ‘mo’ trend – no longer just adorned as a mischievous motif in November – with facial hair now gracing the faces of the boldest fashion-conscious men all year round.

Oscar Ocaña, JOHNNIE WALKER Brand Director said:

“The Boldest Wax is designed to specifically enhance the flavour of a Johnnie & Ginger, and give men the chance to maintain their style on the go. John Walker was a proud moustache wearer himself – and as someone who could appreciate a classic when combined with something bold and new – we’re sure he’d have sniffed out a moustache wax that enhances the flavour of a Johnnie & Ginger as a great idea.”

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Head Barber Chris Ward, from Huckle the Barber adds:

“In the last few years the number of men who request that I leave their ‘tash when shaving them has grown massively. The Boldest Wax is a great accessory for them – they’ll love how it enhances the flavour of a Johnnie & Ginger in a really unique way – and also that they can keep control of their style on the go, so they can keep looking bold all night long.”

The pocket-size wax collection was six months in the making and is now available exclusively through East London grooming hotspot Huckle The Barber (hucklethebarber.com) priced at £7.99 each (or the set of three for £20) until stocks last.

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John Walker, the man himself, has a history with ginger mixers.

Brewing equipment and several barrels were found in his distillery, showing the hallmarks of that pioneering spirit for which he’s famous.

But as a man always looking forward, he’d see no justice in leaving the legacy of Johnnie & Ginger there.

A ‘Johnnie & Ginger grooming experience’ (wet shave, or facial hair grooming, and one pot of The Boldest Wax) is £35, and is available in store at Huckle the Barbers until 2nd August 2015.

 

Joan Collins Timeless Beauty Lipstick & Nail Lacquer Review: Marilyn And Evelyn

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joancollinslipstickandnailpolishreview

Joan Collins is synonymous with glamour. She harks back to a time when movie stars would never leave the house without their hair and makeup being done, and certainly not in sweatpants. This glamour is evident in every aspect of her new makeup range, Timeless Beauty. The packaging is classic and sophisticated and many of the colours are full on glamour. We previously reviewed her Helene lipstick and nail polish. This time we went for some pink shades.

Evelyn is a hot pink coral shade which makes a statement and Marilyn is an easy-to-wear pink shade: perfect for daytime. The lipstick is creamy and hydrating. Impressively, it lasts for hours without the need to reapply. The amazing lipstick is like skincare and brilliant lipstick all rolled into one. Moisturising, vibrant and long lasting: what more could you want?

The Nail Lacquer is great, it is also long lasting and high quality. Just two coats gives a great, shiny, opaque look. It goes on smooth and lasts a long time. Impressive.

The lipstick costs £18 and the nail polish is £12.50 at www.QVCuk.com and http://www.joancollinsbeauty.com

Early Miscarriage by Dr Patricia Thompson

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miscarriage A miscarried pregnancy can be a devastating experience. The woman has already experienced pregnancy – nausea, swollen, tender breasts, just ‘feeling pregnant’.  The couple are sharing a cosy, exciting secret – visualising their anticipated offspring, they may well have chosen some names.

Then, abruptly, hopes are shattered. It can happen in several ways – sometimes there is bleeding, cramping pain, the woman may just not feel pregnant anymore, an ultrasound scan may show that the baby has stopped growing, or there is no heart-beat.

However it happens, both partners usually feel devastated.

And yet, approximately a fifth of pregnancies end as early miscarriages, meaning during the first three months. Sometimes the woman didn’t know she was even pregnant, just experiencing a ‘late period’, other times the couple are very aware, and can experience deep pain and loss.

The baby frequently has a serious genetic/chromosomal abnormality in these cases, and would have been incapable of surviving.

An early miscarriage is usually a one-off event, and the next pregnancy will be successful. However, if it happens during the first one, the couple may feel uncertain whether they can have a child. Nothing will convince them except a subsequent normal birth.

A few couples (around 1%) have recurrent miscarriages – defined as at least three in a row. Even then, three-quarters of these will eventually have a normal baby.

A few unfortunate couples may never succeed – possibly due to a particular genetic problem, but often a reason isn’t found, and it is very upsetting.

Late miscarriages – during the middle third of pregnancy, are less common (only one pregnancy in fifty), and may be due to illness in the mother, or womb or cervix abnormalities. Depending on the cause, treatment may be possible for future pregnancies.

So what if you have an early miscarriage? Firstly, nobody is to blame.  Too much exercise, stress, or having sex, for example, do not cause miscarriage. Healthy pregnancies are pretty resilient.

The pregnancy tissue may be lost naturally, through your vagina. However, the hospital may suggest removing any remnants, using a gentle vacuum under anaesthetic. This prevents possible infection, which can be serious, and could compromise future pregnancies.

The experience can impact both partners for a considerable time. The woman experiences physical changes, and both are affected emotionally. The man sees the distress of his partner, and feels he should be the strong one, and yet he is suffering too.

It is important to talk, and grieve together, and, if possible, to share with close friends and family. People can appear to forget very quickly, or don’t even know you’ve had a miscarriage. They expect you to be ‘back to normal’ and don’t always understand your continuing pain.

Specialists and groups are available should you experience difficulty in getting through the grief.

Importantly, don’t forget, if you have had a miscarriage, you are highly likely to have a successful pregnancy next time.

Useful information sites:

http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/miscarriage/Pages/Introduction.aspx

http://www.babycentre.co.uk/a252/understanding-miscarriage

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These articles express personal views. No warranty is made as to the accuracy or completeness of information given and you should always consult a doctor if you need medical advice.

 

 

Madame LA LA West Coast Bronzing Face Serum Review

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Madame LA LA West Coast Bronzing Face Serum ReviewNot all fake tan is created equal, in fact, too many of them leave you looking orange and smelling like a biscuit. Not so Madame LA LA West Coast Bronzing Face Serum. It smells divine and gives a brilliant bronzed look, all whilst infusing the skin with goodness.

It has a thick consistency and a little goes a long way. It is easy to apply and although it is a tinted formula, it gives a dark and rich colour. It gives a beautiful, deep, sun-kissed look. It is not only an amazing bronzer, but it also leaves skin hydrated and noticeably brighter- we love it.

Brilliant stuff available from feelunique.com

What they say:

Madame LA LA is an American-Brit self tan and skincare brand inspired by LA, Malibu beach, the Hollywood lifestyle, wellbeing and modern tanning. West Coast bronzing serum is a new and innovative instant self tan pick-me-up for the face, producing an LA-worthy glow. Infused with Coco Water & Green Tea to hydrate and brighten. Antioxidants Vitamin C and CQ10 combine with Vitamins A, E to protect skin and fight signs of ageing, boosting cellular renewal and collagen for a smooth complexion. The easy-to-apply tinted formula adapts to all skin tones and develops gradually. The serum can be used day or night.