Well, wasn’t that a turnout for the books? One magnificent, sun-soaked weekend and we’re all grinning from ear-to-ear, our moods 100 per cent better than the week prior, lounging languidly like the Riviera princesses that we are at the nearest park, terrace, or patch of scrubby grassland. Our sunscreen is meticulously applied, there is a serene, (single) glass of Rosé in hand, and an award-winning novel to one side.
As if! Hands up who got carried away and forgot their hydration, SPF and dignity in the glowing haze of good intentions this weekend? Who’s now sitting sheepishly at their desk feeling rather taut, pink, thirsty and ashamed?
At least there’s room for improvement. And in the meantime, let’s turn to this week’s best new beauty products in the name of restoration, revival and pretending to be well-rested.
Victoria Beckham Face Brushes
If Victoria Beckham made makeup brushes… Oh wait. Meticulously crafted to VB’s personal specifications, inspired by calligraphy and designed with painterly, modern makeup placement in mind, these brushes are veritable Objects of Desire. Sculpted in walnut, each with a unique grain, ergonomically formed to fit your hand, synthetic bristles… hand-trimmed no less. I need them all. From £40 (victoriabeckhambeauty.com)
Cowshed Relax & Unwind Hamper
Cheese and wine hampers are a wonderful thing. I like them very much indeed, I really do. But imagine for a moment - if you will - being gifted a basket of beauty products carefully curated to help you relax? Divine! This new edit from Cowshed has all you need for a pampering weekend. Think soft, squishy robe, mood-setting scented candle, eye mask, massage oil, body scrub, moisturiser and much more. £250 (cowshed.com)
Acqua di Parma’s Buongiorno Eau de Parfum
Few things say summer to me like Aqua di Parma’s iconic scents which pay homage to the Italian Art of Living, one of my favourite things. This time we’re off to the Tuscan Hills; think verdant rolling vistas, morning dew, bare feet, burrata for lunch and those precious first rays of sun on your skin, featuring Basil, Pettigrain, Mandarin Leaves, Cedarwood and Amber. From £153 for 50ml (acquadiparma.com)
Joonbyrd Kaleidoscope Smoothing Body Serum
This superlative functional body serum from London consultant dermatologist Alexis Granite is clinically proven to improve the smoothness, softness and appearance of the dreaded keratosis pilaris in just six weeks, with its hardworking blend of Shikimic and Azelaic Acids, Licorice Root and nutrient-rich superfoods including Blueberry Seed Oil and Chios Mandarin. Just the thing we need for the Summer Season. £78 (joonbyrd.com)
The Inkey List Exosome Hydro-Glow Complex
Exosomes are tiny, naturally occurring particles that act like messengers - carrying proteins, lipids and genetic material - and have become the latest beauty-world buzzword for their ability to supercharge skin regeneration, boost collagen and deliver targeted rejuvenation at cellular level. Once the reserve of premium in-clinic treatments and costly serums, The Inkey List brings them to the masses with this clever complex packed with no less than 3 million plant-derived exosomes from Cica (Centella asiatica), a common hero ingredient in Korean skincare.
Clinically proven to visibly boost glow, smooth and renew skin in 14 days, it's all about that post-treatment radiance without the price tag £20 (uk.theinkeylist.com )
