by Annette @ Wellness WA | Nov 16, 2011 | Products, Reviews
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I went through a stage where my skin was a war zone. I was doing all the right things with my usual winning combination of a gentle cleanser (Cetaphil) and oil-free moisturiser (Kiehl’s) plus exfoliating twice a week, plus guzzling water and eating right – but my skin was ready to do battle and I needed to stand up to it.
I needed something new and I needed it fast, the pimples and blocked pores were not budging. I tried numerous toners to try and dry out the spots, but nothing was working. So I went deep into the trenches (Kit Cosmetics, my favourite source of beauty arsenal) and asked them to pull out the big guns… I was originally there to source another product, but the salesperson put me on to Peter Thomas Roth’s Sulfur Cooling Masque ($51.95) when I explained my predicament. She was totally on the money.
Just one of the soldiers in this hard working product.
As soon as I put the clay-textured masque on my skin, I could feel the cooling effect. With sulphur and eucalyptus doing the double team on my pimples, the inclusion of aloe had their back and made sure the rest of my skin didn’t dry out. Although I did only put this masque on the affected areas, there’s no point in shaking up innocent civilians in your ploy to take out the bad guys.
After about 10 minutes of letting the masque set and do its damage, my skin was finally being led to happier pastures. I kept up the masque twice a week for a month and my skin has cleared to a point where I am really happy with it.
Now I think there were some sneaky terrorists, in the form of hormones, playing a role in this battlefield, but the Sulfur Cooling Masque was on the frontline when it counted and I’m saluting its efforts. It’s a product well worth a try if you are having skin issues, particularly in the T-zone and I highly recommend it.
Are there any products that have done a stand out job on your own skin warzone? Or perhaps you live and die by a product that keeps your skin a neutral territory – fill us in!
Review by Lisa O’Neill, a former-triathlon wannabe now revelling in the joys of yoga, sleep ins and the elimination of waistbands as she awaits the arrival of her first baby.
by Annette @ Wellness WA | Nov 15, 2011 | At Home, Products, Reviews
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I think that legs are the 3rd best part of a woman. After personality (inclusive of wit and intelligence) and smile. There’s something about a leg that is so full of energy (well I guess that’s the muscles) and youthfulness. I just like them. It’s one of those body parts that people talk about ‘doing some work on’ before summer hits, and I think I kind of get that…you want your pins to look good! And like any human being you would probably be pretty interested if I told you there might be a shortcut to great looking 3rd favourite body parts, right?
This Works, the purveyors of modern natural beauty, have a product called Perfect Legs Skin Miracle. They just come right out and say it ‘perfect legs’, how do you like that? I admire their directness, that sure is finding the chase and cutting to it. Perfect Legs contains Vitamin C (which we all know by now helps skin repair itself) and Vitamin E (moisturizing and anti ageing) as well as possessing a dreamy bronze tone to leave your stems a light sun kissed hue. This colour is important, it is very light and a little shimmery (it comes out of the bottle a lot darker than it goes on) and is not a fake tan – it washes off and doesn’t smell. In fact Perfect Legs has a really nice fragrance involving patchouli, geranium, frankincense, rose, vanilla and clove. Beautiful.
♥ Arnica
AND, best yet, it helps with skin imperfections by evening out discolouration and scars. This includes bruises, thanks to our good friend arnica. And if you are anything like me, and as clumsy as they come, you will be rejoicing right now to hear that you can disguise the table-bumps and doorway scrapes quite effortlessly, now that it is the time of year for shorts and skirts!
Welcome to my legs after using the product.
I really enjoy using this product, you can make a commitment to applying it daily or put it on at the last minute to give your legs a pick me up before heading out the door (my favourite)- it’s a step up from a normal moisturizer but not quite as serious as a fake tan. It may just be ‘40 minutes on the treadmill’ in a bottle, and used in conjunction with a real exercise regime- WELL, then I am going to suggest you get those legs out and strut it girl!
Availability
Cost: $92 AUD
Where: Mecca Cosmetica Online or in store
What do you think, is this an enticing combination of a light moisturizer and a bit of colour or what?
Review by Adriane Daff, believer of (a) that women are more than the sum of their parts and (b) that even though (a) is true feeling good about your legs is pretty awesome too.
Be well,
xoxo
by Annette @ Wellness WA | Nov 14, 2011 | Day Spa, Interstate/International, Products, Reviews
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For those who are in the knoW, W Hotels are a chain of worldwide luxury hotels. When I first heard of them, I was intrigued to read that celebrities Heidi Klum and Seal had stayed at the newly opened W Hotel in Bali, Seminyak (where we stayed). From then on, I was very eager to try out the treatments on offer at the on premises amazing sound beauty and wellness centre, the ‘Away Spa‘ and receive some star treatment! I was pleasantly surprised, I was Whisked away by the atmosphere and facilities they have on offer.
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Located on the ground level of W Retreat is the exotic looking entrance to the spa. “Whatever, Whenever” is their motto and it’s no wonder because it’s open 24/7 and is the first of it’s kind. The path to the spa is surrounded by water and colourful stones imprinted with “wish” and “hope” which is what W hotels is about, little surprises that delight! The friendly staff greet us as we step in the door and soon after we are introduced to our individual therapists before our 4 hour long appointment. The only requirement for our Pimp Me Up package is “dress to impress and we do the rest”, and they certainly took care of the rest, because for the next 4 hours we were treated to something very special.
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As I look around the brightly lit blue massage room, there are robes and slippers prepared for us in the corner. There are two massage tables on a platform infront, and shower facilities behind. After changing into a robe, my therapist asks me to choose 6 out of 10 coloured bottles. These bottles are filled with aromatherapy oils to be used in the massage. After 5 blissful days in Bali, I felt refreshed and energised so I pick 6 vibrant colours, which turn out to be the most zesty scents. I chose a bright orange that smelt like an orange being spritzed into a bottle. This playful little gesture of picking colours added another element to the W spa experience. My therapist made sure to check with me that each scent was okay before applying the oils to my body. Uncertain about the bright blue light at first, I quickly get used to it after the first few minutes of my soothing 90 minute aromatherapy massage.
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After a few refreshments the therapist explains to me what is next – the very luxurious Diamond Dust Scrub. The Diamond Dust Scrub is made from actual diamond dust particles and is an exclusive blend. At first it felt quite cold but further into it the scrub was invigorating. My therapist scrubbed my body from head to toe, front and back. A short time later, I stepped into a nice hot shower and rinsed off the scrub, I could still see flecks of diamonds on my skin and it shimmered in the blue light.
Next step in our pimping process, a 24-karat gold wrap. Yes you heard (read) right, a blend of 24-karat gold in a hydrating lotion, massaged on to our exfoliated skin to add moisture while experiencing a bit of glitz and glamour. When the therapist slathered the gold wrap on to my skin, I snuck a peek at my arm and I could see flecks of gold and squealed excitedly to myself. The lotion had a thick consistency and felt soft on my skin was massaged over my entire body. After about 20 minutes I rinsed off (yes shock horror!) the gold lotion in the shower. Hoping that not all the gold had gone down the drain, I came out of the shower and noticed my skin had gold flecks and it was shimmering in the light. A truly unique experience! It’s also good to know that the blend of ingredients in W’s own scrubs and lotions are 100% natural.
Some of the products used in our treatment.
After the whole body treatments, my face was treated to a Bright Eyes facial using a mixture of Priori and W’s products. The Priori range of anti-aging products contain ingredients that are ideal for cleansing and exfoliating the skin and they used a moisturiser that protects and hydrates for more than 8 hours. The Priori eye-serum firms and boosts weary and tired eyes, rich in spirulina, witch hazel and comfrey extracts, thus the Bright Eyes name (not to be confused with the band). A spritz of the ‘Away’ facial mist in a lavender scent to finish the facial, refreshing and light, they also sell the products to take home with you in the salon.
Some of the heavenly face mists.
At last when I opened my eyes, I felt like a goddess that had just woken from a deep slumber, refreshed and rejuvenated. Our therapists took such care with our hands and feet and gave us the most amazing manicure and pedicure using OPI colours. Words can’t even describe how I was feeling after 4 hours of indulgence, it was a truly one of a kind experience.
One of the lovely therapists.
To top off the 5 star treatment, we were served gourmet style tapas in the spa’s dining room accompanied by a choice of a smoothie, alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage.
And if you thought that wasn’t enough, the spa also has a hot stone bath and cold jet set vitality pool to keep your relaxed, so you don’t have to stop there.
With an extensive list of treatments offered there are endless possibilities at Away Spa & Retreat in Seminyak/Bali, and you’ll come out feeling like a million bucks, (or literally worth a million bucks after the over the top gold wrap!) it is certainly worth the trip.
W also provide the SWEAT Fitness Centre which is also open 24/7. The gym is fully equipped with treadmills, cross-trainers, weight machines, yoga mats and speed ropes for gym junkies that like to go on holiday and keep up with their exercise routine. They also offer personal trainers as part of their Whatever/Whenever service at any time of day. Where else can you get that kind of service?
I would like to extend my gratitude to W hotels and their absolute commitment and accommodating staff and Wellness WA for giving me the opportunity to review this wonderful spa, an ideal escape for a honeymoon or a getaway with a girlfriend for a well deserved break.
AWAY® Spa
Ambience: Sophisticated and Luxurious
Spa Dining: Light Snacks and Drinks at Chill Bar and Decompression Lounge
Special Facilities: 5 Treatment Rooms, 2 Spa Suites, Nail Lounge, and Hair Salon
Spa Hours: 24 Hour
Cost: 4,600,000 aka roughly $495 AUD
More Information: Pimp Me Up
Have you ever been to a spa in Bali? Any other recommendations for us? Share your knowledge below!
Review by Kelly-Anne, newly awakened Balinese princess. Photos by Tegan Taudigani.
Be well,
xoxo
by Annette @ Wellness WA | Nov 11, 2011 | Beauty Salon, Day Spa, Inner City, Reviews
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My sister recently gifted me a “Spa Pedicure” at Royal Beauty Day Spa (Royal Street, East Perth) for my birthday. I had a wedding to attend on the long weekend and, with dread, realised that my post winter feet were not in any way peep-toe ready… it was time to put my present to good use.
I called on the Monday (short week due to CHOGM) and was given a Thursday afternoon appointment, which was greatly appreciated given so many were closed due to trips away for the long weekend.
As it was a short week and I was busy at work, I ran late for my appointment. The central location (opposite The Royal) and great available parking in this section of East Perth made it a lot easier. The therapist owns and runs the Day spa herself and was very gracious even considering my lateness. I was immediately escorted into a treatment room which was simple, but very well decorated and felt very relaxing. The whole Spa is lovely, clean and very inviting.
Would my feet be ready for these in time for the wedding?
The Spa Pedicure ($60 & 40ish minutes) included: exfoliation, foot massage, nail file and paint and, as an added bonus, a great chat. I was told that due to my being late she could not take the time she would usually like to during the treatments as she had another client coming in, but that did not stop it from being thoroughly relaxing! When someone else arrived (noting, as mentioned earlier, that it is sole owned and operated) the therapist said I was more than welcome to stay and relax in the room whilst my nail polish dried.
When she returned after attending to another client, I realised that despite the short period of time there, I was fully relaxed and my feet that were previously atrocious were now polished and ready for my favourite heels!
I am definitely planning on returning and the whole place does make you feel very special knowing that you are more than likely going to be the only one booked in and have the therapist’s full attention. She was very knowledgeable and even gave me tips to keep up my newly pampered and polished feet. It was a very lovely birthday present indeed!
Contact Details
Website: http://www.royalbeauty.com.au
Address: 8/33 Royal Street East Perth WA 6004
Phone: (08) 9221 5900
Review by the pedicure loving, twinkle toed Imogen.
Be well,
xoxo
by Annette @ Wellness WA | Nov 8, 2011 | Hairdresser, Inner City, Reviews
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For the low-maintenance lady with a love of sun-kissed locks, balayage has been pretty hard to beat. A popular hair trend that has seen a slew of Erin Wasson hair doppelgangers emerging from salons since 2009, I too jumped on the band-wagon. But this summer, I wanted something different. I’ve seen another band-wagon travelling past, and I have jumped straight on. If balayage was the zeitgeist of a care-free summer beauty routine last year, this summer will see 90s style pastel pretty hair making a come back. You might have also seen it referred to as Ombre, from the French ‘to shade’. It’s basically a dip-dye effect where the hair is dyed from light to dark, or dark to light.
♥ Model Dree Hemingway
I decided to make the switch on a whim, and having heard wonderful things about King Street’s Head Studio, I book myself a last minute appointment. Having called at 10am, I manage to get myself down to their swanky studio by 10.45am. If I wasn’t thoroughly impressed already with their flexibility, Head Studio’s antique decadence leaves me feeling like I’ve entered the royal frontiers of Perth’s hair dressing salons. Perhaps not the place for those looking to relax, Head Studio feels a lot like a busy Northbridge café, with a playlist made in indie heaven (I believe I listened to Wolfmother’s first album) and a staff of very fashionable and talented young things. With some of the hair dressers responsible for the glorious manes of Perth’s Fashion Week, I know I’m in good hands.
♥ Model Charlotte Free
I’m greeted by two lovely ladies who escort me through as we discuss exactly what I want. I’m thinking more along the lines of a subtle hue a la models Charlotte Free and Dree Hemingway rather than My Little Pony, so we decide upon a tasteful and understated magenta. After a complimentary head and shoulder massage (bliss!), my colourist retouches my balayage so the magenta will come up brighter. After that’s developed and I’ve caught up on the latest Oyster magazine, we then get down to business. The magenta is actually a mixture of pink and blue mixed in with toner, and I’m told that sadly, will fade within a few washes.
After a light trim, my hair is then dried and loosely curled with a GHD.
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The colour completely washed out after 3 washes, but my hair is notorious for being hard to maintain colour. I’m not too disappointed though – the staff were perfect conversationalists, and if you check in on Foursquare you get a free milkshake! I’ll definitely be back there soon!
Cost: $235 for cut/colour/blow dry
Web: www.headstudio.com.au
Salons:
PERTH SALON 08 9481 6464
64 King St, Perth CBD
SUCCESS SALON 08 9498 7577
Shop 20A, Gateway Shopping Centre, 816 Beeliar Drive, Success
ROCKINGHAM SALON 08 9527 1697
Shop 4/7 Railway Tce, Rockingham Beach
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/headstudio
Twitter: @headstudio
Pastel hair – 90s raver faux pas? Or fashion forward? What do you think?
Review by Camilla Peffer, pastel haired princess (for a brief time anyway) and curator of Cunning Copy.
Be well,
xoxo
