The Wellbeing Festival, running from June 24^th – July 6^th is a fantastic line-up of events aimed at helping you look and feel your best.

Curated by Content and Radiance Cleanse, events range from make-up workshops to tea tasting and summer cocktail lessons – all with a clean, green twist.

I’m most looking forward to the long-awaited launch of “The Elegant Art of Falling Apart” by Jessica Jones, a truly inspiring woman who’s book covers cosmetics, cancer, break downs and how to stay sane when faced with some of life’s biggest trials.

To show our support, anyone attending Jessica’s launch will receive a free Rosehip BioRegenerate Oil, plus refreshments from Uncoco Coconut Water.You can view the full line-up here, and do bear in mind that some events need to be booked in advance.

We’ll be seeing you there!

We live in a constantly ‘switched on’ society, and though we might not realise it our fast-paced lifestyles can really take a toll on our minds and bodies.

Stress plays a major factor in our health. The constant pressure that comes with never fully disengaging impairs the immune system and, I believe, is responsible for a lot of the illnesses we suffer from.

What is Adrenal Burnout?

The adrenals are small walnut sized glands that sit just above the kidneys.

They produce the stress hormones adrenalin and cortisol, otherwise known as the bodies ‘fight or flight’ signals, which are released in response to high stress situations.

In ‘survival mode’ they help our bodies function more efficiently, increasing blood pressure and maintaining fluid balance (stopping you needing the toilet!)

Cortisol in particular regulates bodily functions that aren’t crucial in the moment, such as reproductive drive, immunity, digestion and growth.

The problem is that when we’re continually stressed or dwelling on a problem, the body carries on releasing cortisol and supressing these key bodily functions that keep us healthy – eventually leading to adrenal burnout or fatigue.

Adrenal burnout is affecting more and more people, particularly those in high-pressure jobs, and is now so common that the World Health Organisation has recognised it as a new ‘illness’.

But how can it affect our skin?

The skin and the immune system are intrinsically linked, so if the immune system is supressed then chances are your skin will be down in the dumps too!

Auto-immune conditions such as psoriasis and urticaria tend to flare up, and with the skin more prone to infection and inflammation the likes of eczema and acne get worse too.

You can read more about the importantance of emotional wellbeing on the skin here .

How do I switch off?

This is easier said than done but actively managing stress is just as important as ticking those tasks off your ‘To Do’ list.

The key is to find ways to switch off your brain or at least distract it from any nagging thoughts or worries.

Meditation can be a useful tool here but otherwise try simple things like turning your phone off for an evening, reading a book or even splashing out on a massage.

I find it helpful to have a notepad by my bed so that I can jot down things I need to remember. Even if I don’t refer to my notes in the morning just the physical act of writing a thought down puts it to bed so I can sleep easy!

So, why do toners have such a bad rap? And is there any point in using them?

Alcohol-Based Toners

The majority of Toners contain high levels of alcohol which is used to ‘tone’ and ‘tighten’ the skin.

This is down to its astringent effects, which give the appearance of pores ‘shrinking’ – a process which is as bad for the skin as it sounds!

These harsh formulas put many people off Toners, particularly those with sensitive skin or rosacea.

Sensitive skin or not, all skin types should avoid Alcohol as it is very drying and stripping and leaves skin exposed, distressed and out of balance.

A New Approach

Pai Bioaffinity Tonics are alcohol-free and work in a very different way to traditional toners. They focus on maintaining the balance of the skin and lowering skin alkalinity after cleansing.

Rich in the water or ‘juice’ contained within the lotus root and rice plant, they also deliver a huge dose of vitamins, minerals and amino acids – so make a big difference to overall skin health, comfort and clarity.

I swear by my Rice Plant & Rosemary BioAffinity Tonic – it comes with me everywhere!

I always carry one in my hand luggage when I fly long haul, and spritz daily after cleansing before I apply my Rosehip oil.

A few of the girls at Pai HQ keep one on their desks for an afternoon skin pick-me-up. If they’re off out in the evening they also spritz them over makeup to add a dewy glow – a tip they picked up from makeup artist extraordinaire Kenneth Soh!

Would love to hear if you’re as addicted to your Toner as I am, or if you still need convincing…?

1. What’s the best way to deal with acne and prevent aging?

2. How can I avoid pulling the skin around my eyes when removing mascara with your cleaner and muslin cloth?

3. I’ve recently started to see fine red lines around my nose. I cleanse tone and moisturise religiously using mainly Pai or other organic products. Any thoughts on how to make them go away?!

4. Is the Age Confidence Facial Oil suitable to use around the eyes?

5. Can you recommend a good regime for a 45 year old with normal to dry (tight and dehydrated) skin?

6. I’m in my early 20s and I would like to know how I can keep my skin in the best condition and prevent premature ageing of my skin. I’m already all Pai-ed out but I’m wondering if it would be useful to add the new oil to my regime? Like many others I’m also worried about proper daily sun protection.

7. I love the Pai Rosehip Oil, but have really dry skin and am having problems with getting enough moisture into my skin to stop those annoying flaky bits. Especially with this annoying weather meaning the heating is on too and drying out my skin further. What other Pai products do you recommend for really dry skin.

8. Can your new oil be used under the eyes? I find your eye cream can cause little bumps, maybe it’s a touch too rich for me..?

9. I have a combination of dry and oily skin, do you have one product that would address both problems, or should I continue with the Geranium & Thistle and Chamomile & Rosehip? They have both help so much with my urticaria!

10. I’m interested in trying the new oil, can you tell me is it ok to use if you have spots/acne or should it be avoided on these areas?

11. I’m 34, my skin is oily and sensitive, recently I’ve realized that most of my adult acne troubles are actually a result of this sensitivity so I’m trying to find a balance between cleansing dead cells and keeping moisture and protective oils on the skin. Which of the two Pai oils would be most adequate to me?

12: I’m a bit scared of oils! I’ve used Liz Earle oils and my face just reacts unhappily. What makes yours suitable for sensitive skin like mine?

13. Can you tell me the correct way to use your eye cream – where to apply and when to apply?

14. Since I’ve given birth my skin has become very dry. After cleansing it feels so dry and tight and I just can’t find anything moisturising enough. Please help!

15. What can I do about burst blood vessels on my face and nose? Also will you ever develop a sunscreen?

16. With regard to both oils – the Rosehip Oil and the Age Confidence Oil – is it safe to use those under and around the eyes?

17. What are the best products to treat and care for acne-prone and ageing skin? I’m finding it hard to get the correct balance.

18. Can the Rosehip or the new Age Confidence Oil be used as standalone or do they need to be layered with a facial moisturiser?

19. Will you be making a sunscreen soon? Can you recommend any good ones for sensitive skin?

20. I am 51 and am in pretty good nick overall – but my neck and chest seem to have aged considerably more than my face. Do you have any suggestions on how I can improve this area?

21. I have suffered with acne since I was 18 and urticaria all of my life. Luckily my skin is not very scarred but I would love some tips on how to create a more even surface?

22. I am about to turn 59 and my main concern is little lines on my top lip, but I have never been a smoker! What would you recommend?

23. Do you really need an SPF if you’re going to be indoors all day?

24. What can you suggest for my dry skin that still has clogged pores on my nose?

25.  I’m 30 and just starting to worry about my lines on my forehead to top it off adult acne won’t let up. I’ve tried a few acid peels but they all tend to dry my skin out too much. What would you recommend for best results?

Q 1: What’s the best way to deal with acne and prevent aging?

A 1: It can be tough to find products that are suitable for acne-prone skin as you get older. It sounds to me like the best thing for you to do would be to try to rebalance your skin, as this will not only help improve acne but keep your skin looking as healthy as possible for as long as possible. You can download a really helpful doc about maintaining skin balance here:http://www.paiskincare.com/images/age_c/oil_ph_balance_skin_confidence.pdf. Hope that helps!

Q 2: How can I avoid pulling the skin around my eyes when removing mascara with your cleaner and muslin cloth?

A 2: You can use 1-2 pumps of our Camellia & Rose Cleanser on a cotton pad to remove eye make-up which is much gentler. If you’re finding it pulls the skin, avoiding using the Muslin Cloth on this delicate area.

Q 3: I’ve recently started to see fine red lines around my nose. I cleanse tone and moisturise religiously using mainly Pai or other organic products. Any thoughts on how to make them go away?!

A 3: Facial massage can be really helpful in regenerating the skin around the nose and cheek area. Follow this link and scroll to the bottom of the page for our home massage tips – do as often as possible, ideally daily if you can find the time! http://bit.ly/YgfLWb

I would also suggest avoiding all alcohol in your skincare products (should be fine if you’re using Pai anyway as our products are all alcohol-free). Remember a lot of natural skincare brands use alcohol in their formulations – it’s usually listed as just ‘alcohol’ or ‘alcohol denat.’ on the label.

In terms of products – I’d recommend our Chamomile & Rosehip Cream as it contains lots of natural anti-inflammatories – so should help to calm the redness. Try adding a drop of our Rosehip oil to a couple of pumps for an extra boost. It’s very healing and regenerative.

Q 4: Is the Age Confidence Facial Oil suitable to use around the eyes?

A 4: Yes, the Age Confidence Oil is suitable for use around the eyes but I’d recommend also using the Echium & Argan Soothing Eye Cream as a complimentary product to keep the delicate eye area really well hydrated.

Q 5: Can you recommend a good regime for a 45 year old with normal to dry (tight and dehydrated) skin?

A 5: Correct cleansing is at the heart of all great skincare regimes, so if you’re not already be sure to use a gentle Cleanser that removes make-up and impurities without stripping away the natural oils that keep your skin hydrated. I’d also definitely recommend you use an Eye Cream and Facial Oil at night – our Age Confidence Oil would be perfect as it helps lock in moisture to keep your skin soft and supple throughout the day and also helps plump and smooth the skin overnight.

Around the eyes is a much neglected area but one that can really give you away, so using a gentle cream will really help keep the surrounding skin as healthy as possible. Always remember that a skincare regime is about more than just products too – follow this great Five a Day guide for fantastic skin for years to come: http://bit.ly/YgfLWb

Q 6: I’m in my early 20s and I would like to know how I can keep my skin in the best condition and prevent premature ageing of my skin. I’m already all Pai-ed out but I’m wondering if it would be useful to add the new oil to my regime? Like many others I’m also worried about proper daily sun protection.

A 6: Ok, this is a really good question! I’d say only use the Age Confidence oil if your skin is naturally prone to dryness. If you have good natural oil in your skin then you may not need this product just yet. In terms of make-up – I swear by mineral foundations – and they really don’t have to look flakey on the skin with the right application techniques and tools. Invest in a good Kabuki brush and just do a light brush of the powder on well moisturised skin. A good mineral make-up powder will provide some SPF protection too and I think are far preferable to cream sunscreens or liquid foundations which I find too heavy, sensitising and congesting. Hope that helps!

Q 7: I love the Pai Rosehip Oil, but have really dry skin and am having problems with getting enough moisture into my skin to stop those annoying flaky bits. Especially with this annoying weather meaning the heating is on too and drying out my skin further. What other Pai products do you recommend for really dry skin.

A 7: Yes where on earth is our Spring?! Our Rosehip Oil is fab but it won’t counter dehydrated or very dry skin on its own. Only creams can actually hydrate the skin as they contain a lot of water – so if you’re not already using one of our moisturisers I’d suggest either our Avocado & Jojoba Hydrating Day Cream or Macadamia & Rose Dry Skin Cream. Apply in the morning only and stick to the Rosehip Oil at night.
What are you using to cleanse? Flakiness is usually a sign of bad cleansing products as detergents strip the skin of its natural oil and really disrupt pH and oil production. Avoid wipes or any cleansing product containing detergents (e.g. sodium lauryl sulphate (‘SLS’) or cocamidopropyl betaine) or alcohol. Here is a blog post with a bit more info on this:http://www.paiskincare.com/blog/2012/08/24/5-ways-to-achieve-skin-balance-and-why-its-so-important/

Q8: Can your new oil be used under the eyes? I find your eye cream can cause little bumps, maybe it’s a touch too rich for me..?

A 8: Yes, the Age Confidence Oil can be used around the eye area. Do you exfoliate at all? Small bumps are usually congested skin, which may be down to products that are too rich or a build up of dead skin cells. Perhaps cut down on the Eye Cream – using only 2 or 3 times a week and incorporate gentle exfoliation into your regime too? Should make a big difference.

Q 9: I have a combination of dry and oily skin, do you have one product that would address both problems, or should I continue with the Geranium & Thistle and Chamomile & Rosehip? They have both help so much with my urticaria!

A 9: So great to hear we’ve been able to help your urticaria – it’s such a relief to get it under control isn’t it? There are no hard and fast rules with these things – our products for dryer skin are fattier than our products for combination skin and may cause congestion. If you’ve found a routine that keeps your skin calm and balanced then I’d suggest sticking to it, alternatively you might be able to add 2-3 drops of Rosehip BioRegenerate oil to your Geranium & Thistle Cream for an extra boost.

Q 10: I’m interested in trying the new oil, can you tell me is it ok to use if you have spots/acne or should it be avoided on these areas?

A 10: I actually wouldn’t recommend the Age Confidence oil for blemish or acne-prone skin. It’s been developed to boost skin oil levels and help dryer skin types retain moisture, which is really not what you’d need! If you’re looking for an oil to help keep your skin at it’s best and most clear, we have a lot of people who get really great results from our Rosehip BioRegenerate oil bit.ly/Y3WpBg.

Q 11: I’m 34, my skin is oily and sensitive, recently I’ve realized that most of my adult acne troubles are actually a result of this sensitivity so I’m trying to find a balance between cleansing dead cells and keeping moisture and protective oils on the skin. Which of the two Pai oils would be most adequate to me?

A 11: I’d definitely recommend the Rosehip Oil for your skin. It has the full range of Essential Fatty Acids which will help to support, tone and rebalance your complexion but isn’t too rich for blemish-prone skin types.  

Q12: I’m a bit scared of oils! I’ve used Liz Earle oils and my face just reacts unhappily. What makes yours suitable for sensitive skin like mine?

A 12: Thanks for getting in touch – let’s try and allay your fears a little! It may be the essential oil content you’re reacting to, in which case I’d recommend our Rosehip BioRegenerate oil as it’s completely unscented. Also less is more when it comes to oils, a couple of drops really is sufficient. Otherwise, our Age Confidence oil is absolutely bursting with anti-inflammatories that keep skin calm and soothed, and also strengthen skin against reactions long term. Unlike most brands, every single Pai products is developed for sensitive skin – and it’s something that influences every ingredient we decide to leave in and leave out. If in doubt, we have a 30 day money back guarantee on all our products – so if it wasn’t right for you you could return it for a full refund!

Q 13: Can you tell me the correct way to use your eye cream – where to apply and when to apply?

A 13: My method for applying Eye Cream is take 1 pump, spread it across both ring fingers and gently pat along the orbital bone to the side and below the eye. If you have any dry or sore skin anywhere around the eye, massage a small amount of cream in – but if it’s on the eyelid be sure not to use too much as you can overload the area.

Q 14: Since I’ve given birth my skin has become very dry. After cleansing it feels so dry and tight and I just can’t find anything moisturising enough. Please help!

A 14: Well, as a new Mum myself I know exactly what you mean! Pregnancy hormones can really affect the skin, read this post for more info: http://bit.ly/ZZqqPg.

Rather than drastically changing your skincare regime do allow your skin a little time to self adjust. Our new Age Confidence Oil would be a good treatment product to boost your skin if it’s feeling dry and lacklustre. Start by using twice a week in the evening only and then you can work up to more regular use as and when your skin needs it. Remember oils condition and nourish the skin while creams hydrate, so you will need to use a good moisturiser in the morning each day too to tackle your dehydration. Cleansing is also key to healthy skin – so always use a detergent and alcohol-free cleansing cream that will keep your oil and pH levels in balance. This pdf guide to Skin Balance might be of help: http://www.paiskincare.com/images/age_c/oil_ph_balance_skin_c

Q 15: What can I do about burst blood vessels on my face and nose? Also will you ever develop a sunscreen?

A 15: We do actually have a few products in the range that can help with burst blood vessels and thread veins. The healing and effect of the Orange Blossom in our Lotus & Orange Blossom BioAffinity Toner will help, as will our Chamomile & Rosehip Sensitive Skin Cream (calms redness and strengthens the skin’s surface). This blog post about how to treat thread veins may also be of interest: http://bit.ly/ZZNj50. In terms of SPF, unfortunately we’re not totally satisfied with the technologies available when it comes to combining our organic credentials with our sensitive skin focus – we are looking for a solution though! In the meantime I always recommend mineral makeup as an SPF alternative. Here’s some more info: http://bit.ly/15zca2W

Q 16: With regard to both oils – the Rosehip Oil and the Age Confidence Oil – is it safe to use those under and around the eyes?

A 16: Yes, both oils can be used around the eye area but remember to use them sparingly, you only need a few drops for your whole face!

Q 17: What are the best products to treat and care for acne-prone and ageing skin? I’m finding it hard to get the correct balance.

A 17: This seems to be a common question – it can be really tough to find products that are suitable for acne-prone skin as you get older. It sounds to me like the best thing for you to do would be to try to rebalance your skin, as this will not only help improve acne but keep your skin looking as healthy as possible for as long as possible. You can download a really helpful doc about maintaining skin balance here:http://www.paiskincare.com/images/age_c/oil_ph_balance_skin_confidence.pdf. In terms of products, I’d recommend a combination of Geranium & Thistle Combination Cream in the mornins and Rosehip BioRegenerate oil in the evening, with an Eye Cream a few times a week for special care.

Q 18: Can the Rosehip or the new Age Confidence Oil be used as standalone or do they need to be layered with a facial moisturiser?

A 18: I’d recommend applying either oil to slightly damp skin after you’ve cleansed or toned in the evening. Depending on your natural level of hydration – you may be able to just apply the oil at then allow it to work alone overnight. If your skin is very dry, then you may need to follow with a small amount of moisturiser to keep your skin comfortable.

Q 19: Will you be making a sunscreen soon? Can you recommend any good ones for sensitive skin?

A 19: We’d love to develop an SPF in the future but at the moment the technology in the area is quite limited when it comes to combining our organic credentials with our sensitive skin focus – we are looking for a solution though! In the meantime I always recommend mineral makeup as an SPF alternative. Here’s some more info:http://bit.ly/15zca2W

Q 20: I am 51 and am in pretty good nick overall – but my neck and chest seem to have aged considerably more than my face. Do you have any suggestions on how I can improve this area?

A 20: This is a really common problem – people focus on the face and forget about areas such as the neck, chest and hands. You should try and treat your neck and chest as an extension of your face – continuing your regime of cleansing, toning and moisturising down past your jawline. Alternatively, you could try using a rich body cream on the chest area – perhaps enriched with a few drops of something extra regenerative such as Rosehip BioRegenerate Oil. You can always look into some simple massage techniques for the neck and chest area too – done regularly, these can really help to tone and firm the muscles beneath the skin.

Q 21: I have suffered with acne since I was 18 and urticaria all of my life. Luckily my skin is not very scarred but I would love some tips on how to create a more even surface?

A 21: To help achieve an even surface for the skin you should exfoliate 2-3 times a week with a gentle exfoliator. It might also help to optimise cell turnover and ease congestion from the inside out – taking a supplement with a range of Omegas will help, as will drinking lots of water and eating a balanced diet high in antioxidant rich foods.

Q 22: I am about to turn 59 and my main concern is little lines on my top lip, but I have never been a smoker! What would you recommend?

A 22: Thanks for getting in touch – we’ve had a couple of questions about fine lines around the lips.  I’d suggest trying a very gentle exfoliation around the lips with our Kukui & Jojoba Bead Exfoliator as this will remove any dead cells and stimulate circulation to this area. Use a really gentle circular motion no need to really scrub!  If you’re a lipstick wearer go for a more natural/organic lipstick shades as these tend to contain organic vegetable oils and more natural pigments. Lighter colours will detract from the lines more than dark vibrant colours which draw attention to the lip area.
Also think beyond skincare and look at your diet. Boosting your intake of essential fatty acids will help condition the skin from the inside out – oily fish, seeds and nuts are all good sources but if your diet is lacking in these foods then invest in a good supplement. Here’s what I recommend:http://www.paiskincare.com/blog/2011/06/07/is-hemp-oil-the-best-essential-fatty-acid-supplement/

Q 23: Do you really need an SPF if you’re going to be indoors all day?

A 23: Protecting your skin from the sun is key to preventing premature ageing and, more seriously, skin damage. That being said, I think wearing an SPF everyday even in winter can contribute to a lack of Vitamin D – a deficiency at the heart of many skin allergies. Here’s some more info on that: http://bit.ly/14bClAq I always recommend mineral make-up as great protection from the sun outside peak summer time – it has a natural SPF and doesn’t congest the skin like many foundations or sun protection creams. Here is some more info about mineral make-up: http://bit.ly/15zca2W, http://bit.ly/YjINBq

Q 24: What can you suggest for my dry skin that still has clogged pores on my nose?

A 24: I would recommend regular exfoliation and gentle steaming with a muslin cloth to help decongest the area. Taking an Omega supplement like Hemp oil will also help to address any internal issues causing the dryness and congestion.

Q 25: I’m 30 and just starting to worry about my lines on my forehead to top it off adult acne won’t let up. I’ve tried a few acid peels but they all tend to dry my skin out too much. What would you recommend for best results?

A 25: Personally I wouldn’t recommend acid peels as they are really aggressive and dry out the skin, throwing it off balance. What you really need is to restore skin balance – as this will help ease adult acne as well as prevent fine lines developing for a little longer. I’ve put together this pdf guide to Skin Balance which should be of some help:http://www.paiskincare.com/images/age_c/oil_ph_balance_skin_confidence.pdf.

This month we’ve teamed up with three of our favourite beauty bloggers to share exclusive offers on their most-loved Pai products.

First up, make-up maven Vivianna Does Makeup…

“Juicy-looking skin overnight with bounce, plumpness and a hell of a load of glow. It keeps dry patches at bay and my oily areas in check. All without any nasties. Win.”

Receive Anna’s favourite Pai product – Rosehip BioRegenerate Oil (30ml, worth £20) free when you spend £25 / €30 / 250DKK / $50 or more on any Pai products.

Enter the code VIVIANNA at check out.

*Using the code will deduct £0.01 / $0.01 from your order.  The free item will be included in your shipment during packing – it will not appear in your shopping cart.  You do not need to add the free item to your shopping cart.  This offer ends Midnight Thursday 13^th June 2013.

Many turn to the trusty fake-tan to fake that bronzed glow but sadly it turns me a fiery red rather than the desired golden brown.

I frequently hear from customers who have experienced similar reactions to gradual tanners. So, what is it that makes them so irritating?

What’s in fake tan?

The active ingredient in fake tan is dihydroxyacetone (DHA) – which can be manufactured synthetically or derived from natural sources like sugar beets and sugar cane.

DHA works by reacting with the amino acids on the topmost layer of skin to create a brown colour pigment called melanoid. It’s this chemical reaction that produces the distinctive “biscuit-y” aroma associated with tanning!

Is fake tan safe for sensitive skin?

There have been concerns about the safety of fake tan, with several reports published and ongoing.

Until recently, spray tans were thought most controversial – as research indicated that DHA when inhaled could cause DNA damage as well as worsening asthma symptoms (I’ve mentioned this before here).

No More Dirty Looks have also written a great post about the most recent research here.

Last year ABC News released a separate study suggesting that DHA may also be able to migrate into the blood stream through products applied to the skin.

It’s important to stress these are new findings and further research and more in-depth clinical studies need to be done.

One thing that is clear is that DHA is a known irritant and definitely one to avoid if you have sensitive skin.

Fake tan products are generally heavily fragranced too (to mask the smell), which can also trigger a reaction.

What are the alternatives?

There are some great wash off tans avaliable – just make sure you read the ingredients list before you buy!

For the face a dusting of mineral bronzer works a treat for a subtle glow, and you get the added bonus of a natural SPF too.

I’m a big believer that cleansing the skin too often and with the wrong (detergent based) products is at the root of most people’s skin woes. Simply put, it mucks up your oil and pH balance which sensitises and prematurely ages the skin.

You can read more about this in my earlier ’5 tips for achieving skin balance’ post.

Why are face and body washes bad for skin?

Most cleansing products foam – and foam usually comes from detergents. Detergents are like antibiotics – they strip away everything including all the good stuff, namely your natural oil. They are also very alkaline so destabilise the skin’s acid mantle.

The common detergents to steer clear of on ingredients lists are Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Cocamidopropyl Betaine. These ones are particularly drying and irritating for sensitive skin. I’m horribly allergic to both.

What do I recommend instead?

For the face I recommend using a 100% detergent-free cream cleanser and just at night. They’re best used with a muslin or other face cloth.

For the body I suggest high oil content soaps – such as Savon de Marseille – over foaming shower gels. These soaps are best used alongside a body puff as they help to generate a really good lather from not very much at all.

Would I suggest only washing weekly? Yes for young babies but no for adults! I say better to wash regularly with the right, skin-kind products than just weekly with the wrong ones.

Reporting on recent research done by the UK Soil Association, they examined products from a number of beauty brands making organic claims and found many to contain synthetic ingredients such as methylisothiazolinone (a particularly nasty preservative).

There are currently no legal rules for organic labelling in cosmetics, and some companies take advantage of this loophole.

Peter Melchett, of the Soil Association says: “the many companies that strive to meet the standards are being undermined by those that take shortcuts and make misleading claims.”

Customers are cheated in two ways. Firstly, they are duped into buying products based on organic credentials that don’t exist.

Secondly, they pay more for organic products because they cost more to produce. So it is tempting for companies to charge the premium but use cheaper non-organic ingredients.

In the case of the Boots oil mentioned in the article, they claimed the product was 100% organic when it wasn’t. Boots responded to the criticism by saying “any problems with its Botanics range were related to labelling and not the products themselves.”

Quite right – but they’re totally missing the point in this defence. The problem is that they falsely claimed the product was 100% organic – no one was suggesting the product was bad or dangerous.

The UK’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) is increasingly being sucked into this moral vacuum and is now regulating organic marketing claims.

In October 2012, Boots (again) was told not to do any further advertising for their Little Me Organics (ASA Summary Ruling) line without a disclaimer informing customers the products weren’t actually organic. You can read my earlier post on this here.

In January 2013 Neom Luxury Organics (ASA Summary Ruling) were told “not to use ‘organic’ in relation to their products unless they held robust evidence.”  This ruling has implications far beyond the candles complained about.

It raises the bar for organic claims. In the past companies thought it enough to claim organic status by being really natural or using the odd organic ingredient. The ASA rulings mean you need third party verification from a reputable organic trade standard such as the Soil Association or ECOCERT.

I expect (and hope) organic beauty products will become legally regulated at some point in the future – as with food. Anyone remember the  organic eggs scam? It was a national scandal and the guy went to jail!

Beach in the East is a luxury pop-up shop housed in a full size, concrete swimming pool in the heart of Shoreditch.

The store is curated by Yasmin Sewell, fashion consultant and former buying director for Browns, and sells her handpicked collection of art, fashion and design.

The fabulous Hemsley & Hemsley sisters were on hand at the event creating amazingly psychedelic, healthy ‘blondies’ for guests including Daisy Lowe and Mary Portas.

All the VIPs went home with a one-off Bang Bang for Your Buck goodie bag, stuffed with treats including our cult Rosehip BioRegenerate Oil!

Beach in the East is a unique shopping haven and well worth a visit if you’re in the area – it’s open until August 24^th.

The announcement is taking place at the Hay Festival where Alannah will be joined on stage by supermodel come eco activist Lily Cole.

What is Squalene and why is this such big news?

Squalene is a popular ingredient in the beauty world due to its exceptional moisturising and skin softening properties, as well as its ability to fight free radical damage.

The highest concentrations of squalene are found in the liver of deep-sea sharks and sadly it’s become big business. A ton of shark derived squalene can fetch up to £18,000 and it’s estimated that three million deep-sea sharks are caught and killed every year to feed this beauty addiction. That’s a whole lot of sharks….

Unfortunately, labelling loopholes mean manufacturers don’t have to disclose the origin of their squalene so many of the big beauty houses used it for years incognito.

What next?

The good news is that there are several rich plant sources of squalene – most notably Amaranth seeds (a key ingredient in our new Age Confidence Oil), Olive oil and Wheatgerm oil.

So here’s hoping more manufacturers will put an ethical foot forward and move to these animal friendly versions.

It is encouraging to see Selfridges wield their buying power for good in this way and we can only hope it will influence other retailers to follow suit.

Do you think more store buyers should veto products on ethical grounds? Or should it be left to customers to vote with their wallets?