REGIME Magazine New Year 2023

HOW TO SET GOALS AND ACHIEVE THEM

The start of a new year is always full of promise. It is a time of fresh starts, new goals and challenges.

In this issue of REGIME, we concentrate on helping you get 2023 off to the best possible start Whether you want to boost your selfesteem, take better care of your skin or totally transform your look, we have got tons of tips and a sprinkling of motivational quotes to keep you on track

In addition, we are truly blessed to have interviews with some great indie businesses

We meet Jane Malcolm, founder of palm oilfree natural skincare brand Coconut Blush Her business story is fascinating

Also featured is the double comb hair accessory HairGem, a joint venture between Tammy Rutherford and Karen Marshall

In a complete departure from our usual content, we have allowed ourselves to go offtopic to meet the talented artist behind the creepy collectable doll brand Damnato Dolls Poseable art is all the rage - even Demi Moore is known to be a collector!

If you have got a birthday or any type of occasion coming up, we are back with our popular Gifts Galore gift guide

My Opinion piece for the start of 2023 looks at the legal implications beauty vloggers may be ignoring for the sake of a few extra likes or subscribers

I hope you enjoy this issue of the magazine and encourage you to visit our website for regular new features and product updates

Belinda Bennett

Editor & Publisher

REGIME Magazine www.regimeskincare.co.uk

Feeling a bit bloated and unhealthy after all the excesses of Christmas? If too much turkey and mince pies have turned your thoughts to New Year resolutions, you are not alone.

But promising yourself to get fit, take better care of your skin or invest in a fresh make-up look is often easier said than done How many times have you set self-care goals only to let them fall by the wayside?

The truth is that New Year resolutions decided way back in the autumn or early winter end up becoming a bit like that stain on your hallway carpet that you've been meaning to clean off for months Or the junk you've piled in a corner of the garden, ready to take to the dump It is simply something you think you need to do but don't really want to.

It's pressure And, if you lack the motivation to get started, you won't bother

The rush to improve physical and mental well-being at the start of a year sees subscriptions to places like gyms skyrocket Internationally, 12 per cent of all gym memberships are purchased in January. Many never make full use of them and can find themselves tied into financial commitments for services they no longer want.

Don't Set Deadlines for Goals

A deadline rarely works for personal goalsunless you are super-motivated Unlike deadlines for work, you are the only person responsible for making things happen Nobody is standing over you or pinging across endless emails, telling you to remember to pop a serum on before you apply your night cream And, of course, your livelihood is unlikely to hinge on the latest shade of lipstick or the circumference of your inner thighs It's all down to you

temptation to put off health and beauty goals

The reality is New Year, New You deadlines that you set yourself can cause stresssomething nobody wants in their life at the start of a year

Research suggests that many people who leave meeting a deadline to the last minute won't get the expected result In terms of work, the Martin J Whitman School of Management says errors or sloppy performance can be the outcome If you apply the same logic to a deadline you have set yourself, it is not difficult to see how likely it is that you will just do nothing!

It is too easy to go for perfection when you are thinking about making changes that are months away But, as the New Year dawns, anxiety can set in And worrying about something - anything - is not going to help you physically or mentally

Because every-day life can distract you from resolutions, it is much better to make a change as soon as you deem it necessary

That's right now, by the way

You know the saying Don't put off what you can do today until tomorrow

New Year, New You - NOW

Instead of implementing all the changes you want to make to your life next year, start nowgradually

Do it one step at a time

Mentors, including personal coaches, often recommend this approach because it is less stressful than working to a rigid deadline.

There is some logic behind it

Around 25 per cent of adults in the UK set New Year Resolutions but, according to the results of a 2020 YouGov survey, less than a quarter stick to them Around 28 per cent didn't achieve a single one So, the odds are stacked against you

We've put together a short guide that will help you make great strides today, tomorrow and throughout 2023

Easy Skincare Hacks

Now is the best time to give your skincare routine a boost. The single most effective way to improve the condition of your skin is to ensure daytime products contain SPF. It is as simple as swapping one product for another, be it a moisturising cream or foundation. Effortless.

Our second easy skincare hack is to include a serum in your evening routine. Choose a product based on your skin's current condition.

New Year, New You deadlines that you set yourself can cause stress - something nobody wants in their life at the start of a year.

Take a look at the recommendations below

Dry skin: Hyaluronic acid

Fine lines and wrinkles: Retinol

Dull skin: Vitamin C

To tackle more than one skin concern, you can layer serums or invest in a multi-peptide product Remember, Vitamin C works well on uneven skin tone and has a brightening effect - a great multi-tasker

A good serum doesn't have to be expensive, and it can be mixed with a moisturiser if you don't want to apply it neat

'New You' Make-Up Ideas

Unless your cosmetics are well past their use-by date, you have probably got some great products you've never used Eyeshadow palettes are one of the most under-utilised make-up items in cosmetic bags

It is easy to go with a shade that instantly takes your fancy and stick to that one colour, without exploring what else might look good on you from the same palette

It's always worth remembering that palettes are produced in colour themes That means you will find co-ordinating shades that can be used to create one look

Take a look at your palettes and see if you can discover any new shades that will complement the look you want to achieve

If you normally only wear one shade of eyeshadow on the lid, why not use two - or even three?

Not sure where to start? Take a look at our free eyeshadow tutorial for some great ideas

Another way to switch up your look is to give your face a more radiant glow with a blusher This cosmetic is back on-trend and available in matte and shimmering shades Currently popular are liquid blushers

Our final New Year, New You make-up hack is lip gloss Clear or tinted, it can turn any look from drab to fab So, go on Get a bit of glamour in your life!

If you normally only wear one shade of eyeshadow on the lid, why not use two - or even three?

To Summarise...

It is not always true that good things come to those who wait

The reality is that deciding to start something new 'next year' is like planning a wedding for five years' time What's the chance the relationship will go off the boil long before?

The time to make the change is now

There will be virtually no pressure and you will see the results in no time at all

For more information about how you can 'up' your beauty routine, visit our blog

A serum is an essential part of any skincare routine, if you want to boost hydration levels and tackle skin concerns. In fact, pretty much every brand is pushing 'holy grail' serums at the moment - each promising nigh-on miracle results. But what's the best way to ensure the one you buy works?

This is a frequently asked question, particularly by those switching up an anti-ageing regimen

If you spend hard-earned cash on a product with powerful ingredients you want to maximise the benefits, right?

Creating the perfect base is important; conditions have to be just right to give a serum the best chance of performing.

The application method is vital too

Maximise the benefits of this potent skincare essential

For maximum results, dermatologists recommend a few simple steps that we outline in the paragraphs that follow.

Cleansing

In order for a serum to properly penetrate the outer layers of the skin, cleansing is a vital first step.

Regular exfoliation is a must.

Dead skin cells, along with dirt and grime, block pores and make it harder for skincare products to do their stuff.

So, alongside your normal cleansing routine, exfoliate at least twice a week

Remember to choose a product that is not too harsh and rinse thoroughly afterwards. Pat dry with a clean towel or face cloth

Once you are satisfied your skin is squeaky clean, move onto the toner phase of your regimen

Application

A good serum will be absorbed into the skin very quickly Apply a few drops and evenly distribute with light, circular motions

Once you have finished, spend a further 60 seconds gently tapping the skin to ensure the serum properly penetrates the surface

Moisturise

Most serums are absorbed in around a minute. After this time, it is important to apply a moisturiser.

As well as further boosting hydration, a good day or night cream will seal a serum in. It provides a barrier that stops a product from simply evaporating or sitting on the surface of the face.

When to Use a Serum

For best results, use a serum day and night.

Most serums are absorbed in around a minute. After this time, it is important to apply a moisturiser.

Layering Serums

It is OK to use more than one serum, if you want to tackle several skin concerns at the same time. Just remember to use the lightest serum first.

Most skincare experts recommend using no more than two serums.

Get the most out of your products by following our simple tips.

If you are looking to boost your skincare regimen and help the planet in 2023, check out the palm oil-free products by Coconut Blush.

This UK brand was launched in 2005 and specialises in traditional soaps and natural skincare products.

It was founded by Jane Malcolm, who was looking for a remedy to ease the unpleasant symptoms of eczema being experienced by her small children.

After carrying out extensive research, she recognised the benefits of products made with natural ingredients - and decided to make her own soap.

The results were spectacular Within a few weeks, she launched her own business

Jane Malcolm introduces us to the natural skincare brand she founded in 2005

Coconut Blush, based in the Peak District, is now an established brand and Jane is a winner of the prestigious SBS award, bestowed by entrepreneur and Dragons' Den investor Theo Paphitis.

The brand's range, which is vegan and free from parabens and SLSs, now includes palm-free soap bars, hand and body washes, solid shampoo bars and liquid shampoo It even extends to shampoos and salves for dogs.

As well as direct retail sales, Coconut Blush also operates a wholesale arm of the business

Jane says: "Many people are unaware that the majority of skincare products contain synthetic ingredients Not only are these harmful to the environment, they can also cause skin sensitivity and dryness

"I take great pride in sourcing the most natural ingredients to create products that nourish and feed the skin; allowing it to breathe and replenish itself"

Very reasonably priced, the Coconut Blush range has a reputation for delivering on both quality and value

Its range of body washes includes the bestselling essential oil blend of Lavender & Geranium A beautiful, warm and cosy aroma which is perfect for this time of year

They are a popular part of the brand's offer.

Jane says: "This skin-loving body wash is made with ingredients derived from coconut oil and rose floral water

"Rose water is known for its ability to balance natural oils, naturally hydrate skin and provide antioxidant protection All of the body washes have a velvety, high foam meaning only a small amount is needed"

Rose water is known for its ability to balance natural oils, naturally hydrate skin and provide antioxidant protection

Her hand washes are popular too. Available in scents of Lime & Cedarwood, Orange Blossom & Grapefruit and Lavender & Geranium, there is an aroma to suit everyone. A premium quality hand product made with biodegradable ingredients and supplied in bottles made from recycled plastic which can be recycled again after use.

Jane added: "There are so many skin benefits to natural soap Most commercial soaps contain synthetic ingredients known to strip skin of its natural oils, so if you haven’t tried a handmade bar then it worth a look

"All bars contain a high percentage of shea butter to boost moisture, smooth skin and help repair dryness

"Also available on a white/private label basis Fully compliant with UK law

Jane has held an Environmental Quality Mark for over 10 years now, so if you’re looking for trusted skin care products with a recognised ethos in sustainability, it’s here!

Visit Coconut Blush's website or follow Jane on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram

Cica skincare products, including a toner, can help to calm irritated, dry skin.

They are worth exploring because redness, especially on the face, can be embarrassing and make using cosmetic products difficult

Many people who suffer from skin irritation end up applying more make-up to camouflage the issue, often making the problem worse

It is better to tackle any redness with a suitable skincare regimen than simply over-load the face with concealer and foundation A build-up of these products, if not properly removed, will block pores and cause even more skin concerns

About Cica

Cica is an ingredient derived from an Asian herb called Centella Asiatica

examines the benefits of cica products

A type of pennywort, it has been historically revered for its healing properties and is also known as Gotu kola

What makes this tropical plant so useful in skincare products are its powerful saponins, including Asiatic and madasiatic acids

Manufacturers lean towards cica extract as a calming ingredient because it is made up of vitamins B and C, as well as fatty acids, flavonoids and amino acids

It reduces inflammation and has antibacterial properties Cica is also considered to have antiageing benefits

Where Does Cica Grow?

Used in cooking as well as skincare products, cica only grows in tropical climates. It is widely produced in Asia and Africa.

Belinda Bennett

It is also grown in Australia and small island countries in the Western Pacific

Labelled as a creeping plant, it requires high air temperatures but bog-like ground conditions

When in bloom, it produces tiny flowers that are either white or pink

In Burma, Centella Asiatica is traditionally used in salads In Sri Lanka, it is a popular accompaniment to rice dishes

Cica Face Toner

If you have ever tried a cica face toner, you will have noticed two distinct things about the product:

Its green colour The smell

A scent of freshly mown grass can be a bit off-putting but, if you regularly use a toner containing cica, you will get used to it.

Products containing cica are often marketed to those with sensitive skin. As well as being sold as a topical tonic, it is also found in balms and serums.

It's not just beneficial for the face Creams containing cica are considered a good treatment for dry skin on the body and feet You will find it in heel balms, for instance

What is especially appealing is that these products often have a relatively low price tag

Brands currently using cica as an active ingredient include Revolution, La Roche, L'Oreal Paris, Neutrogena and Aveeno

A key feature of Korean skincare, Centella Asiatica is revered for its hydration properties and is often found in moisturising sheet masks

Cica plant leaves

How Centella Asiatica Hydrates Skin

Compounds found in cica typically increase blood circulation

By upping circulation to the skin, Centella Asiatica increases moisture levels It does this by allowing the outer layers to retain more water - essential for cell regeneration

The benefits of moisture retention include less inflammation and a reduction in irritated skin

Many people use a cica toner and serum before applying a night cream

A good moisturiser will lock in the benefits found in products containing the herb extract for optimum results

Cica Skincare Marketing

While the word 'cica' is an accepted mainstay of skincare marketing, Centella Asiatica extract is also commonly referred to as Tiger Grass

This alternative name isn't at all surprising when you consider the scent - it does have a distinct 'grassy' smell

So, if you are hunting for products that contain this ingredient to tackle a skin concern, look out for Tiger Grass as well as cica It's the same thing!

Calming Irritated Skin

It is always worth reviewing your skincare routine if you develop areas of dryness or redness

Not everyone is suited to all products, and it sometimes takes a bit of trial and error to get a regimen just right

While cica is known for its calming properties, you should always seek medical advice if a skin concern does not clear up within a few weeks

We recommend you carry out a patch test before using a new product Wait for 48 hours and ensure there has been no reaction before applying to the face

Looking for a cica product? Why not try Revolution Skincare's Cica Tonic?

Often beautifully presented and with huge gift appeal, skincare spa sets deliver the promise of a perfect pampering.

Eye candy for those present hunting, they are popular but vary in price from very affordable to expensive.

Are they worth the cost and do they really lift the soul while soothing the body?

What is a Spa Set?

The word 'spa' is traditionally associated with natural bathing springs containing minerals Historically used for their medicinal benefits, they are somewhat few and far between these days - especially in the UK! The same goes for the similar thermal spa, renowned for its popularity during Roman times That is probably why products, as well as leisure facilities, have adopted the word; to fill that gap.

We've all heard of exclusive spa hotels, and many skincare spa bundles are marketed to offer a cheaper but nonetheless sensual experience that people can enjoy in the convenience of their own homes

Are they worth the cost and do they really lift the soul while soothing the body?

A spa hotel? It's like a normal hotel, only in reception there's a picture of a pebble Rhod Gilbert

The promise is a luxurious bathing experience with mood-enhancing fragrances. Think of relaxation, with the whole body being soothed and pampered.

Are they worth the money?

Imagine aromatherapy-inspired products that smell and feel amazing. Bliss in a box!

Well, that's what brands want you to think. They gear their sales pitches to appeal to the stressed out, the mildly depressed, insomniacs seeking relaxation and those looking for a simple, uplifting and nourishing skincare gift. The inference is that bathing products can make you feel better, so it is no surprise that they are a top choice when it comes to 'get well' presents.

But is anything in life that simple? One capful of scented bubble bath and, ta-dah, every trouble is instantly melted away?

A typical spa set includes a bubble bath, body wash, body lotion, bath salts and soap. Some come with sponges, essential oils, body butter, body scrub and hand cream.

They are sold in a wide variety of packaging, from boxes and tubs to breathtaking jewellery cases and advent calendars.

Spa Sets and Science

Scientific studies* have shown that traditional, medicinal mineral spas can improve both physical and mental wellbeing

There is some evidence that taking a plain old warm bath (not hot) can improve heart health and relieve some respiratory problems A bath can also relax the muscles, ease aches and pains, and reduce stress

When products containing essential oils are added, anxiety levels are often reduced too However, some bubble baths in spa sets can contain irritants These ingredients deplete the skin of natural oils This can be problematic for those with sensitive skin

Dermatologists point out that SLES found in cleansing properties can be drying If you suffer from allergies, fragrances can be a problem too These are things you need to bear in mind when buying spa products as a gift Note: products should not contain Sodium Laureth Sulfate if you are buying for someone who is undergoing or has recently undergone radiotherapy

So, to really immerse yourself in a safe at-home spa experience, aim to avoid products that contain SLES, manmade fragrances and synthetic dyes, as well as parabens and phthalates All-natural products that are dermatologically tested are best if you want soothed, clean skin and a truly relaxing 'me' moment

For an authentic spa experience, a fragrance should be lingering but not completely overpowering

How Much?

A typical branded spa set can cost anything between £5.99 and £60.

Influenced by demand, the price of an item can go up or down on an almost daily basis.

The cost will also reflect the number of products in a bundle and their size. We recommend you check the volume of individual items before making an online purchase because some product images can make sets look much larger than they actually are. This is especially true for bundles packaged in tubs and baskets.

There is no doubt that some spa sets offer excellent value for money - especially when they are on offer. But there are just as many that don't.

Premium spa brands, such as Rituals, use gift bundles as a way to introduce consumers to their products By offering a range of bathtime treats, customers can discover new products that they will want to buy againeither individually or in the same set

Are They Worth It?

A spa set can be a lovely treat - or surprise, if received as a gift - but it pays to buy carefully and when the price is just right. We loved the coconut set in a tote bag by BFF Love, but there is no way we would pay over £40 for it. We bought it while it was on offer and under £15.

If you want to cleanse and nourish your skin while enjoying a home spa experience, keep an eye out for deals in the January Sales and don't be tempted to purchase products that contain known irritants.

Here's to some relaxing - and affordable - spa moments

Check the volume of individual items because some product images can make sets look much larger than they actually are!

Below: The six-piece Fitzrovia cocktail themed pamper kit from The Rusty Barrel

Right: Scar Serum's Complete AntiAgeing Set Contains three serums - Retinol Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid.

Right: Premium skincare - Clarins' Double Serum Collection Gift Set. This gift includes the brand's Double Serum as well as other products - all in a gift box.

Above: The value quartz face roller from Deciniee Perfect for facial firming routines and for use with hydrating serums as part of a daily skincare routine. .

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest deals www.regimeskincare.co.uk

Below: This citrus and honey pamper set is from the brand Oukuok. It includes an extensive collection of handmade self-care products and a tinned candle

Below: The Ceremide Collection from Elizabeth Arden. This boxed gift set includes four anti-aging Ceramide treatments, including encapsulated serums for eyes and face as well as a luxurious daytime moisturiser

Above, right: White Diamonds eau de toilette from the Elizabeth Taylor range This floral fragrance is available in three bottle sizes - 30ml, 50ml and 100ml.

Follow us on Twitter @CareRegime for the latest deals on Beauty Gifts

Below: The Ritual of Jing large gift set from spa brand RIUALS. Includes Sacred Lotus, Jujube and Chinese Mint fragrances. Contains ingredients known to relax and calm

Below: This budget Frankincense and Rose Face Cream is sold by Spiritual Gifts and has some great reviews Anti-ageing and good for mature skin

Above: Neom's Perfect Night's Treat magnesium body butter Infused with lavender, basil and jasmine

Above: Sanctuary Spa's new lily and rose Little Moments gift set It includes 250ml body wash, 250ml body lotion and a 50ml body scrub

Left: Baylis & Harding's Wild Fig and Pomegranate luxury pamper gift box set with two keepsake boxes

Right: RHS Home Grown bath salts with lemon, thyme and dock leaves Crushed garden herbs in a cottagestyle jar

Below: NIVEA's Soft Lips collection in a heart-shaped tin A great way to show you care this Valentine's!

Above: EcoGlow's bamboo collection of skincare cleansing products, including makeup remover pads Left: Next Gen Nudes slim eyeshadow palette by Catrice Makeup Shades: 010 - Courage is Beauty

Above: Peach Please - 18-shade eyeshadow palette by TintArk Cosmetics. Below, left: The Attraction palette from Lamora. This season's hottest shades for the smokey eye look Below: The Enchanted palette from Profusion Cosmetics This palette is made up of all-shimmers, though you may see it advertised in some places as containing mattes Includes application brush

Above: The Best of L'Occitane luxury bath and body collection This product has come down in price since we last featured it

Left: Vaseline's Luscious Lips collection with three balms from its Lip Therapy range.

Below: Vintage & Co Nathalie Lete Forest Folk 30ml hand cream and 15ml moisturising hand sanitiser

There is a fine line between giving an honest opinion and making a comment that could hurt a brandin terms of the law. And beauty influencers are straddling that fine line often without thinking before they speak.

While one or two appear to have taken some legal advice, the temptation to let their mouths run away with them for the sake of a few more likes or subscribers is evident It won't be long before one of the YouTube or TikTok 'greats' is financially ruined by a lawsuit

What some forget is that legislation can differ from country to country and what may be fine to say to one audience may not be for another Trouble is You can't separate them on global platforms Making malicious, untrue or defamatory remarks about a brand to a large, captivated following is likely to not just damage the reputation of a business but hurt its bottom line

Pick on the wrong one and it could be 'finito' for a channel that has taken years to build and generate revenue.

Why am I writing about this? Because I have been offended by some of the opinions shared about certain brands on social media recently. I have no connection to any of these businesses but, if I were them, I would seriously consider calling in the legal eagles.

Up-and-coming beauty influencers, take note: you are fair game. Not quite as polished in your delivery as some of the big names, a slip of the tongue is all it could take. And, oh, how some cosmetic companies must be looking for someone to make an example of

Aside from all the videos gushing about countless brands filing for bankruptcy when, actually, they haven't, there are the wannabes who clearly hold personal grudges against businesses

Belinda Bennett asks:

How long before the lawyers are called in?

Not Funny, Love

It could be that their channel has not been selected for sponsorship or was dropped but, as a mere viewer, I am never going to know. I just have to try and make an educated guess as to why a beauty influencer is hating on a particular brand

Which brings me to an eyeshadow tutorial I was watching a few weeks ago It was a bog standard 'woman at her kitchen table' how-to guide, showing off products from a low-cost cosmetics company at the same time I was engaged

Then, without warning, in the middle of the tutorial, she went 'off topic' to get in a sly remark about a rival makeup brand One of my favourite brands, as it happens And not content with the put-down, she went on to pretend to stick her fingers down her throat and made a vomiting gesture Excuse me!

While this type of behaviour is unlikely to lead to court action, because she could say she was expressing her personal opinion (and not to a huge audience), it is still damaging Plus, it lost her a subscriber!

My way of thinking (and it's probably the safest way) is not to say anything about a brand if what you think isn't nice If I buy a product to review and I don't like it, I simply won't give it space in this magazine Ignoring something can be as powerful, if not more powerful, than slating it

I see an awful lot of beauty influencers use the phrase 'honest opinion' That's fine, if they are giving an honest opinion But, if they don't know what they are talking about, it is not hard to stray into dangerous territory

My favourite beauty influencer has 15 million followers on YouTube I can tell by the way he delivers any type of criticism that he understands the law Anything negative is nearly always offered in a constructive context I say, nearly always He strayed within a hair's breadth of crossing the line a few weeks ago with comments that I will not repeat about an individual in the beauty industry For someone with razor-sharp observation skills, I hope he doesn't stray quite that close again I like him because he so often says what I am thinking Like too many irrelevant collections being released on the scale of a revolving door

Influencers and Publishing

The big-time influencers know the ropes. For those who are still a bit green, let me tell youuploading anything to a social media platform is publishing. In exactly the same way that the Daily Mail publishes stories.

Influencers are responsible for ensuring what they publish is true and balanced. And, if you think a review or giving your 'honest opinion' will save you, look into the history of how many restaurants have sued publishers over poor reviews.

If you like commenting on beauty influencers' posts, always bear in mind that you are publishing your thoughts and the same rules apply.

Also remember that it is essential personal opinions are clearly stated as that and not portrayed as facts.

Going back to the commonly banded-about word 'bankruptcy'... There are huge differences between a business being declared bankrupt, being liquidated and going into administration. These differences are recognised in law and should never, ever be confused.

Look into the history of how many restaurants have sued publishers over poor reviews.

There are some brilliant beauty influencers out there, but plenty of pretty awful ones too The crux of this story is to remember that not everything you see or hear about a brand is accurate. Take the negatives - and the positives (they could be paid for) - with a pinch of salt. I do.

Sold REVIEWS REGIME, New Year 2023 - 31

palettes can be very appealing, especially if they

include

pigments for the

facewhich is why the UCanBe Mirror palette caught my eye. About the Palette

Highlighters: 2

Eyebrow products: 0

Lip colours: 0

Eyeshadow primer: Yes

Make-up brushes: 15

Make-up sponges: 2

My initial reaction when the palette arrived was one of disappointment So much so, I left some seller feedback pointing this out It is a lot smaller than I expected

A bit bigger than A5 in height, it opens out to reveal three panels of make-up There is definitely plenty of choice, but the pan sizes are very small

The brushes included with this palette aren't bad quality - a definite bonus

The palette is front opening (in the middle) with a magnetic close

Mirror Palette Eyeshadows

The quality of the pressed pigments in this palette is good In fact, excellent The fallout is minimal, and you benefit from UCanBe's trademark buttery formula

Because of their size, I have never tried the face pigments in the Mirror palette

With such a vast array of eyeshadows, you can create tons of looks The palette contains six colour themes and offers day to night variations as well as seasonal switches With plenty of mattes (always important), it also has some striking shimmers and a good selection of glitters

What I like about it: The palette is original It's not attempting to be a dupe of something else It's delivered in unique packaging and does offer plenty of shade choices Due to its size and slim cardboard packaging, this palette is ideal for travel It's not going to fit in a clutch bag, but it will easily fit into almost any other size bag

What I don't like about it: The price and small pan sizes

I would like to see this palette made available on its own - to bring the price to below £20 Overall, it's good to see a brand coming up with its own, original palette design If you are a collector or creative MUA, this one is worth taking a closer look at Reviewed by Belinda Bennett

With so many serums competing for our attention, Boots' Glow Peach Serum was one of those harder to find bargains.

It's £450, 100 per cent vegan and promises to support the skin's moisture barrier and promote a healthy-looking glow

Sold in a generous 35ml glass bottle with pipette, I bought it to complement the Glow Peach Moisturising Jelly that I already use as a make-up primer

The serum has a medium-weight consistency and a peach scent, which isn't unpleasant

The first time I used this product, I felt a very slight tingling sensation and worried I might suffer a reaction I didn't My skin felt instantly hydrated and the product took the standard 60 seconds to be absorbed into the skin

A budget serum from Boots' Glow range

I have used it every day since While I wouldn't say my skin is 'glowing', it does feel hydrated and soft

For a budget product, I think this serum delivers It works well day or night, and I've even used this product under make-upbefore applying a primer

Only available from larger Boots stores or online, it isn't quite as accessible as some other serums However, for the price, I think it is worth going out of my way to purchase another

If you are on a tight budget and want a serum that tackles dryness and dull skin, this isn't a bad choice For further information, visit Boots' online store

Review by Belinda Bennett

If LaRoc Pro's The Artistry Book Chapter 2 palette looks big online, wait till you get your hands on one! Its size will literally blow your mindnot to mention dwarf practically everything else in your makeup collection.

I didn't have to force myself to try another palette from this brand after being seriously impressed by my previous purchase of its 'Lost In Paradise by Saskia' offering.

LaRoc's The Bakery Box, also from its Pro range, was my first choice - until I clapped my eyes on this mega palette

Once again, I was in for an amazing surprise In fact, I'm raving about this purchase

Attracted by the range of pigments, the design of the palette and, of course, its size, it ticked every box for a serious eyeshadow addict

REVIEWS

First Impressions

This palette is huge, size-wise. I didn't have to open the packaging to confirm it, either. It was obvious.

Unlike the Lost In Paradise packaging, this palette arrived in a transparent sleeve with an inner cellophane wrap - so I could see straight away what I was getting.

It's got some weight to it, which I like, and is the sort of eyeshadow purchase I can't resist having on display.

This is a book-style palette, with a clear cover.

It contains a truly comprehensive collection of pigments in no less than eight themes, which can be mixed and matched.

They include mattes, shimmers and foils as opposed to glitters.

LaRoc Pro's follow-up offering to the original Artistry Book

REVIEWS

About the Palette

Measurements: 22cm x 29.6cm x 1.4cm

Eyeshadows: 48 Mattes: 31

Pressed glitters: 10 Foils: 7

Price: RRP £34.99. Currently available at between £11.99 and £19.99

The pan sizes are extra-large, so it offers real value for money. No itsy-bitsy pans here!

It is worth mentioning that the eyeshadows are cruelty-free, ticking yet another box.

The Pigments

Consistency: Velvety smooth

Pigmentation: High Buildable: Yes

With an easy-to-work-with formula, these eyeshadows blend effortlessly And the foils make the palette suitable for the party season and special occasions

It has that 'something special' feel to it that goes beyond its size The design is clean and neat, making it stand out from bog standard 12 or 18-pan alternatives in printed cardboard packaging

I recommend it if you are looking for a gift for a makeup lover Trust me, they won't be disappointed

The biggest criticism levied at The Artistry Book Chapter 2 is that it is just too big I don't agree Having said that, I am a fan of large palettes Apart from generally offering a wider choice of shades, they make me feel I've got my money's worth However, I would have liked to have seen an extra one or two pale nude shades

So, no, it's not suitable for travel It's a big palette to bring out the make-up artist in you!

As its name suggests, the palette follows on from LaRoc Pro's original The Artistry Book

This second offering has shades that can be used throughout the year, with seasonal favourites including nudes It will comfortably see you through an entire year of different makeup styles

The foils are stunning with a high-shine effect - perfect for that finishing touch to a look

Again, LaRoc Pro has not ignored the need for plenty of mattes There are over 30 in this palette, vastly extending its versatility and making it attractive to everyone - not just creatives

This is a gown-up's palette If you are tired of collabs that feature cartoon characters and the same old palette formats, it makes a refreshing change

I bought the palette in a Black Friday sale for £1199 but, even at full price, it's a bargain Review by Belinda Bennett

Ever felt like your hair looks a mess and you can't do anything with it? Need it neat and tidy with a stylish twist for work, an event or just to boost your self-esteem?

The effortless HairGem Ⓡ was invented and brought to the market by cousins Tammy Rutherford and Karen Marshall - and is the perfect solution

This beautiful accessory, suitable for women of all ages, has been made in the UK since 1995 From a base in Northampton, Karen and Tammy have taken beaded and textile HairGems to major events around the country and given it a home online.

Easy to use, their 'how-to' video tutorials, which demonstrate just how quickly the accessory can transform a look, have taken social media channels by storm.

How two cousins brought hair accessory HairGemⓇ to the market

They even caught the eye of Dragons' Den investor Theo Paphitis, who recognised the products through the prestigious SBS awards scheme

We interviewed Karen to find out more A stalwart of trade shows, she is recognised across the haircare industry as the promoter of the original double comb hair accessory

So, how did Tammy and Karen come to invent the HairGem Ⓡ more than a quarter of a century ago? Karen said: "We wanted to create a hair clip along the lines of a claw clip, with the same strength and versatility, but with some kind of design and colour between the combs

"We initially started with fabric designs, then experimented with beaded designs"

What do you think your customers love about HairGems?

"Customers love the colours and designs that can match up with outfits, cheer up a dull day or hairstyle!" she said "HairGems are strong and hold up-dos, ponytails or bunsall day, every day"

Do people use the HairGem to keep their hair up during exercise and swimming, and do you have accessories suitable for weddings?"

Karen said: "Yes! We've received many photographs of ladies on holiday with their HairGems, wearing them in the pool and also showing how comfortable they are to lie down with compared to the claw clip Great for exercise, yoga, running, etc"

Tell us a bit about your collections

Karen added: "There's an amazing selection of fabric HairGems to choose from Also various colour design beaded ones There are fascinator-style double comb HairGems and diamanté styles too"

HairGems start from just £10 and are available from Etsy and direct from online shop Hair Gem

You can also follow HairGem on Twitter

Regime Skin Care, which publishes the UK's free skincare and makeup magazine, REGIME, has launched an online beauty club.

Free to join, the club is an exclusive space for anyone interested in cosmetics It is where you can discuss products, ask and answer questions and make friends

The club currently has four discussion categories:

General Makeup

General Skincare

Beauty Questions and Answers

Eyeshadow Addicts

It has plans to introduce additional categories, including a section dedicated to those going through cancer treatments

As well as being able to publish posts and comments, members can follow one another, earn badges and get the heads up on what's hot and what's not.

Regime Skin Care launches new online beauty forum

Regime Beauty Club is officially launching in January 2023 but is operational now

With easy sign-up and login, the club is open to everyone It also has built-in security measures to keep everyone safe

Belinda Bennett, the founder of Regime Skin Care, a non-profit making hub for beauty publications and content, says she hopes the club will encourage people to talk about products and to share their experiences

"The ability to ask questions in a supportive environment is quite a valuable tool - especially if you are a fan of makeup or are fastidious about skincare," she said

"I wanted to create a space where everyone is welcome The aim is to give community members power as consumers to share their views on products, offer tips and make new friends

"It is also about supporting each other and empowering people to feel not just beautiful but confident too"

One of the drivers for the club was Belinda's fascination with eyeshadow She collects palettes but doesn't know anyone else with the same interest in the UK

How the Club Works

One you sign up to become a member, you can post product reviews, share tips and ask questions. You can also share images of your recent beauty purchases or the looks you have created.

You can also follow other members and grow your connections with people interested in beauty.

This is an inclusive club, and every member will be made to feel welcome.

Regime Beauty Club is suitable for people with all levels of makeup and skincare knowledge - from beginners to advanced.

Sign up for free here.

How to spot fake online deals during the January Sales Being conned is a gut-churning experience. It's a fast track to selfloathing and strife nobody wants in their life. That is why we want to highlight fake beauty product dealsto help stop you from becoming a victim.

The best way to avoid being scammed and putting yourself through a shed-load of turmoil is to learn how to recognise a potential fraud when you see one

Most of us have had that sinking feeling over a purchase. That realisation that 'something isn't quite right' is often followed by a sense of panic.

Maybe, you placed an order and never received a confirmation email. Or, perhaps, that item you purchased a month ago still hasn't arrived. Maybe, you've been charged twice.

Being ripped off can leave you feeling depressed, angry and really disappointedespecially if the product you thought you were buying was a gift or something you have wanted for a while.

It is often easier said than done, with more and more scammers finding ways to reach beauty lovers through trusted channels

Try to remember the points we raise in this feature because they could save you hard cash the next time you spot an 'unmissable' makeup or skincare offer

Online Beauty Scams

Remember that beauty advent chest that took your fancy a year ago? It was sparkly, big and filled with high-end cosmetics. Christ, it even came with diamond-cut knobs. You really wanted it, but it was way too expensive. Like, £200 expensive.

Wait up! One year on and the exact same chest, filled with the exact same premium beauty products, is on sale - for £29.99.

Too good to be true? Almost certainly. This isn't a made-up story. Last year's advent offering from Charlotte Tilbury has been advertised on Facebook for under £30 and there's even free postage if you order two or more. As if... The seller, a completely unknown brand, claims to be a foreign manufacturer with surplus stock.

In the comments below the ad are two or three images of the chest in people's homes, on kitchen tables and a windowsill, accompanied by rave views 'Exactly as advertised' 'Can't wait to open' 'Arrived really quickly'

But keep going down the list of 'All Comments' (not 'Relevant Comments') and you will start to see a completely different picture

The positive feedback has almost exclusively been left by alleged customers in far-flung corners of the globe. Not one is from the UK.

What you will find posted from the UK are 'Hasn't arrived yet' and 'Why don't you accept PayPal?'.

Most con artists will want you to impart your bank details or wire money to them. They won't want to use PayPal because it has builtin security and money-back features. Requests for payment via a money transfer are a huge red flag Don't do it - e-v-e-r!

As well as not receiving what you ordered, you could end up losing way more than the price of that fake beauty product deal

Even if an offer like this does lead to a delivery, it may not be exactly what you bargained for The products could be fake and dangerous You could receive an empty box or something worth far less than the £2999 you paid

The beauty product deal we have highlighted above could be genuine, but we seriously doubt it You know what they say If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is

Other beauty product scams to be aware of include:

Counterfeit products

Bait and switch cons

Fraudsters posing as well-known brands or official retailers of branded products

Online Fraud

When the Shieldpay Fraud Tracker was launched, it reported that one in four Brits had fallen victim to online fraud That was in 2018 when online shopping was nowhere near as popular as it is now

Today, in part thanks to Covid-19, we take buying online with a pinch of salt; it is an everyday thing for many of us It is easy to forget that not every deal you see online is genuine

While banks have made massive strides in detecting fraud, they can't protect against every scam. And the chances of you getting back all your money after being conned are relatively small if you have willingly transferred cash or given out your bank details.

The Crime Survey for England and Wales reported that there were an estimated 3,863,000 fraud offences against adults in England and Wales in the year ending June 2019. That's just the frauds people reported.

While the survey did not specify how many of the offences were committed online, the eyewatering figure does give you an idea of the scale of fraud. It's huge.

And guess what? The detection rates weren't available. Clearly, very low.

Take Five is a brilliant national campaign that aims to educate consumers, so they don't fall victim to a scam It covers a wide range of topics - from identity theft to pay upfront fraud It's worth giving their website a visit

Top Online Safety Tips

Here's our brief guide to avoiding scams:

Buy from trusted brands and websites, such as Amazon, Revolution Beauty, Boots and Superdrug. Don't forget to support small UK-based businesses with good feedback too Don't be tempted to fall for too-good-to-betrue offers

Check out a brand's website before buying. Look for reviews via TrustPilot and make sure the website is secure and not a copy of a genuine site

Be aware of a seller's returns policy

Never pay by bank transfer

If you think you have been the victim of a scam, contact Action Fraud.

Find yourself doubting a deal? Listen to that voice in your head that is asking: 'Is this a scam?' And convince yourself it is.

Need help with eyebrow shaping and don't want to use tweezers?

You would think, being an eyeshadow addict, that I'd be rather particular about my eyebrows. Truth is, I only started to obsess over them last year.

It dawned on me that, despite being a tweezer-phobic, neatly shaped brows are an absolute must.

They frame the face and not only make eyeshadow pop but much easier to apply too.

The shape of the brow can define your features and even lift your face. But it can be tough to shape your eyebrows if you wince at the thought of plucking or threading and don't want to go to the expense of lamination.

There are lots of vloggers who make eyebrow shaping look dead easy and, now that I've given it a serious go, it is!

So, how do you shape your eyebrows using simple products?

Outline and Fill in the Brows

You can do this with either a gel pen, pencil or powder It is OK to leave the odd stray hair out of the shape - they will barely be noticeable when you have finished, especially if you will be using eyeshadow primer or concealer in your make-up routine

It is easier to follow the natural curve of your brows but if you want to emphasise the arch or make your brows bushier, for example, you can use a stencil to get a clearly defined shape

When using a pen or pencil, use strokes that follow the natural direction of the hairs So, for the inner brows, you would use upward strokes and then gradually slant outwards as you move towards the middle

Belinda Bennett shares the 'no tweezers' way to get neat eyebrows

The brows can slant downwards at the outer end but, if you have mature skin, try to keep them in a slightly upward direction to avoid ageing your face

Further Define the Shape

Reel in those stay hairs with a spoolie brush and get the direction just right.

Make sure your spoolie is clean so there is no product transfer onto your eyebrows.

Flatten Brows with Styling Soap

A great alterative to lamination, styling soap gives brows a sleek finish It's cheap toounder £4

Easy to use, this product is not just inexpensive, it is also long-lasting

Simply roll your spoolie in the soap and gently apply to the brows You can use styling soap to further shape eyebrows, give them more volume and ensure the finish is smooth

Always use a transparent product for best results and go for one made with natural ingredients to avoid irritation

Set your brows in place with a fixing spray

Techniques to Avoid

cosmetics, especially ones that offer two-tone colour to promote a natural-looking finish Some brow pens, for example, come with a gel finisher which is applied with a mascara wand

A great alterative to lamination, styling soap gives brows a sleek finish. It's cheap too - under £4.

Eyebrow lamination, sometimes called an eyebrow lift, is popular, but not suitable for everyone It is not recommended for those with weakened immune systems A side effect can be skin irritation and, for some, this can pose an infection risk

Included in nearly all make-up brush sets, the humble spoolie is often left unused.

But this brush, available in straight or angled formats, is probably more useful than you realise

So, let's take a look at what it can do for your beauty routine. Note: It can also be used to remove nail polish.

Remove Clumps of Mascara

Sadly, nearly all mascaras can blob - even expensive ones. The trick is knowing how to remove excess product to reveal full, beautifully separated lashes.

If you are often left frustrated by blobs of black gunge on your lashes, reach for a spoolie brush. Use a clean brush to separate lashes and remove those clumps.

This brush is especially useful for removing clumped mascara from the lower lashes

To ensure your spoolie is always ready to rescue your lashes, clean immediately after each use Use warm soapy water and allow to air dry

Tip: If you struggle to apply mascara to your lower lashes, try gently tapping the wand against them Allow to dry and repeat

Shape Eyebrows

Most styling soaps come with a small brush but, if they are loose, are easily lost. So, having a spare spoolie is an absolute must.

A spoolie can be used with brow pens and pencils too. It makes sure your brows are groomed to perfection - with hairs separated and teased to the right angle.

We've all got at least one, but what do you do with a spoolie?

One of a Kind (OOAK) dolls are in vogue. Unique art and highly collectable, they are sought after by individuals and museums from around the globe.

Putting her individual stamp on the OOAK market is talented British artist Jo Sammons, of Damnato Dolls.

From her Northampton base, she produces OOAK dolls that appeal to a specific nichecollectors of very detailed art dolls that have a spooky twist.

A must-have for horror and gothic fans, they include vampires complete with fangs, Mooglies and creepy-cute dolls. One of her most recent doll creations is a take on the Wednesday Addams theme. Others include mythical creatures and fantasy dolls. Each creation has a name, which is as unique as its aesthetics.

Jo says: "My dolls are a combination of dark whimsical fantasy.

"Although I mainly veer toward the macabre, weird side, I do like to keep an aspect of cuteness or humour in my creations.

"Occasionally my inner girly-girl comes out and I make a very bright almost kitsch doll, but still with a slightly creepy edge.

"I grew up loving old Dracula films and fantasy films such as The NeverEnding Story which has influenced my doll style significantly.”

A self-taught artist, Jo's fascination with dolls started in her childhood when she collected Barbies.

The passion for creating her own dolls came about by chance years later. It was sparked by images she saw as an adult on Pinterest.

Unlike some OOAK creators, Jo makes all of her dolls from scratch. She also crafts sculptures and busts - with a horror twist, of course.

Meet British artist Jo Sammons who makes creepy, collectable dolls

"I rarely sketch out a design for a doll," Jo said. "I usually just have a vague idea in my head and then start sculpting the face. Sometimes the face looks like a creature, sometimes more like a girl. I then get a feel for how the body or clothes should look along the way. It’s all a bit of a chaotic process most of the time."

One of the things that draws customers to Damnato Dolls' page on Etsy is that most of Jo's creations are poseable art.

The soft sculptures are made using a combination of textiles and ceramics. The detail that goes into making each face completely unique is exquisite. From deep furrows to realistic looking eyes, every doll has its own distinct personality.

Jo says: "The faces are sculpted from Creative Paper Clay which dries very lightweight but strong. I use a paint brush and a dentistry tool to sculpt the features, giving most of my dolls my trademark heavy brow

"I use cosmetic brushes to shade the hollows with chalk pastels as though I am contouring with make-up, this gives definition and dimension to their features

"Details such as eyelashes or freckles are then added with watercolour pencils. My favourite part is choosing the eyes, which I do after the face has been shaded, painted and varnished. I then see their little faces come to life."

Damnato Dolls often cross the Atlantic, with many of Jo's customers coming from the United States of America.

Buyers rave about the detail of the pieces Jo has created and many praise her unique packaging too.

She said: "I absolutely love making these weird little dolls, it is definitely my therapy. They are not to everyone’s taste, so it is all the more rewarding when other people connect with my work. It kind of tells me that I’m not the only quirky weirdo out there."

Damnato Dolls come in all shapes and sizesand to suit all budgets Doll prices start from under £40 - much less if you merely want Damnato Dolls' merchandise, which includes mugs, cards and prints

Find Damnato Dolls on Etsy or Twitter at @DamnatoDolls

TRENDS

It may sound crazy but what will be in fashion make-up-wise in 2023 has already been decided - by designers and brands.

If you haven't currently got what the trendsetters have dictated will be in vogue, purchase what you know you will wear nowbefore prices go up to reflect demand.

Not a fan of foundation? Your luck's in! 2023 is going to be your year!

Set to overtake CC and BB creams is the tinted sunscreen. You will get a bit of coverage and all-important protection from the sun at the same time.

Meanwhile, concealer sticks - often quite dry - are definitely out. In their place are creamy, liquid concealers. They don't have to be expensive either. Technic does a fantastic version, complete with applicator.

And, better still, the coverage is so good, you may not need a foundation

You will be needing your spoolie! Brushed up and gelled brows are set to really come into their own after being a feature of make-up looks for the past couple of years

As reported in the Christmas issue of REGIME, eyeliner is back - and so too is the smudged look So, smokey eyes will be massive in 2023

Lash-wise, you will need to go for curls

Finally - and this has been on the cards for a while - pressed powder is out Instead, expect to see MUAs and trend-setters using more loose powder

Phew! Many of these 'changes' are transitions from trends that have been emerging.

We take a look at the make-up trends set to define 2023

The beauty hacks

Belinda Bennett can't be bothered with In the never-ending quest to rein in my vanishing youth, I'd like to think I haven't overlooked a single beauty hack. I mean, if someone says 'it works' or shows me how great it makes them look, I'm going to be online in a flash, hunting down whatever product it is that I need to get the same result.

In fact, I make the peregrine falcon look like a rank outsider in the race to swoop up the latest 'in' cosmetics I remind myself of an over-eager jumble sale goer, primed to tackle a pile of musty old ponchos rugby scrum-style I envisage myself buried beneath a mountain of ghastly patterned knits only to rise up like a phoenix, hand outstretched and clutching for dear life (right next to the 'everything 50p' table) a super-sized bottle of Estée Lauder Double Wear foundation

Or, perhaps, the Kat Von D Alchemist Holographic Palette

There is something dangerous about watching too many YouTube videos and shopping channel presentations - they compel you to part with oodles of cash Especially if you are a woman of a certain age who can't quite accept that it's 'all over'

I remind myself of an overeager jumble sale goer, primed to tackle a pile of musty old ponchos rugby scrum-style.

It's about getting from Z back to A and having the intuition to know, really know, what cutting-edge products are going to get you there the fastest - if at all. And it can't be just me who feels like a faded hydrangea in the late 'vintage' stage of decay.

GENERAL BEAUTY

For us beauties turned reluctant frumps, there's always that glimmer of some sort of redemption; hope that the next 'big thing' in cosmetics will make us look and feel fabulous again. You know, be the head turners we once were.

But... Even I, the wannabe reincarnation of Benjamin Button, have had to draw the line somewhere. Some beauty hacks are just that little bit too much of a faff. Products that bring out the 'Can I really be bothered?' in me. And, because of my over-arching desire to turn back the clock and usual reluctance not to miss a trick, I figure the same products are likely getting the cold shoulder from you too.

Eyelash Curler

For something that resembles a mini gynaecological implement, I'm amazed the lash curler ever took off. Yes, it curls the lashes and makes them look longer - if you want to chance pinching your eyelids together. It's a sort of crude press but so revered that it is now commonly thrown in with make-up bundles. You are unlikely to find a beauty influencer who doesn't use one.

It's like reversing around a corner for a nervous driver - and then being compelled to wallow in the competency of an expert overly keen to show off their prowess 'I'll just pop the lash curler on' - and two seconds later they've achieved First Class Honours in being Perfect

With diminished youth comes diminished eyesight and I, for one, would not bet on a curler even reaching my eye - let alone the lashes It's a tool that strikes the fear of God into me I can't believe you can even buy heated ones!

And, you know You don't need an eyelash curler A mascara primer will lengthen your lashes and a mascara with a curling wand will shape them nicely

Lip Liner Pencil

They drag, always need sharpening and most often don't match the lipstick you want to wear The lip liner pencil is something that gathers shavings at the bottom of cosmetic bags, perhaps dug out once in a blue moon for a special occasion

For a product that is supposed to define the lips and make them look fuller, it seems odd that I've only ever used one in a bid to stop lip tints from 'bleeding' The truth is liner wax is nearly always too dry to easily apply and wears down so quickly that lips are forever in mortal danger of being scratched by the pencil's sharp edges

The lip liner pencil is something that gathers shavings at the bottom of cosmetic bags...

Retractable liners are easier to use but not as easy as the straight edge of a new lipstick.

Brow Styling Soap

This isn't a bad product if you want to flatten and shape your brows It works In much the same way as Vaseline but without the blinding sheen

The issue is that it is yet another make-up routine step A few flicks with a brow pen will often do the job Who has got the time to then roll an angled spoolie brush in soap and manicure brows like the hairs on a Crufts contender? Not me!

It works. In much the same way as Vaseline but without the blinding sheen.

Eyeshadow Primer

This one pains me As an out-and-out eyeshadow addict, eyeshadow primer should be a daily staple of my routine Alas, it is not

Apart from face primers and concealers doing just as good a job, they have a distinct disadvantage for busy - or disorganised - gals Primarily sold in small tubes, they have a knack for getting lost

I've currently got two tubes - somewhere The fact that I am not going out of my way to locate them says it all, doesn't it?

Beauty Hacks

The web is littered with beauty hacks - some good, some bad The truth is that the ones we are most likely to stick with are super-easy, don't cost much and offer true benefits The knack is finding them

We backed away from our social media channels a bit in the run-up to Christmas. Apart from not wanting to step on the toes of small independent businesses struggling to make a living, we needed to make some major changes to our website.

Still stuck in Goggle's sandbox, it was time to give the entire site a refresh

As well as completely redesigning the full expanse of the homepage, we added new graphics and new sections

The menu now includes links to our Beauty Club page and forum as well as a Members' page This is where you can meet new people, choose who you want to follow and also, if you enable the feature, to exchange messages

All that required structural changes to the site.

REGIME ROUND-UP

While, in the short-term, this isn't going to help our SEO at all (quite the reverse), we are confident it will in the future

It was time-consuming and we had a change of mind regarding the main homepage image - eventually going for the one featured above

A big part of the redesign was getting our Mission Statement clear We are a beauty content hub Full stop We don't currently sell anything on our website and any links are either to posts on our social channels or to brands' websites We do not point people from our website to Amazon This decision was made when the current website was launched in Spring 2022 It was made in a bid to show our support for independents, though we have not seen any evidence that this has been noticed. Hence the desire to make our stance much clearer.

Here's what we've been up to since the Christmas issue of REGIME

REGIME ROUND-UP

We've moved our Beauty Gifts, Makeup and Skincare product pages, which link to posts on our social channels, to the back of the website They are still accessible but harder to find

One of the reasons for this was that the deals have become boring They feature the same old products over and over again If you need inspiration and you are on a tight budget, they are there merely for that

By the time you read this, we are hoping to have figured out a way to ensure magazine readers access REGIME entirely through our website, if they choose to do so We are hoping to find a way to better embed the magazine on our own channels...

It is predominately hosted by Simplebooklet and is available to view via that platform, however Even though we pay for this, any clicks to the Magazine page on our website automatically get redirected to Simplebooklet's platform This doesn't help our 'bounce rate'

So, we are hoping to find a way to better embed the magazine on our own channels in a bid to keep readers on our site for longer REGIME is also available via ISSUU and this is where we will point readers for back issues

We are heading into 2023 with renewed enthusiasm Regime doesn't want to be a beauty influencer; we want to be a beauty circle - a force for good that brings people with similar interests together to learn from one another and to make friends

Above all, we want to ensure our services remain free and accessible to all

We believe in empowering people just like you to have confidence in their looks. And we are passionate about telling everyone: 'You are beautiful!'

Our work supports those who want to boost their self-esteem through knowledge and being part of a growing online community. We also keep our readers in the loop when it comes to hot deals and run regular competitions in our fortnightly newsletter.

We're not stuffy. In fact, we love a bit of humour - you will find plenty in our blog section!

Whether you want to master eyebrow shaping, make-up application, anti-ageing skincare or simply keep up with what's new, we're glad you are here.

Our biggest challenge for 2023 will be driving visitors to our website. To help spread the word about what we do, we are going to be making much more effort with video content.

Over the past month, we've been experimenting with different types of video content on YouTube, TikTok and Twitter One of the biggest takeaways from this is that syndicated content - even if used as part of a unique design - is recognised by these platforms, who give it less exposure The platforms can also determine where else we have posted the same content

This means, we are going to have to create unique content for each channel Enter Our new selfie stick! Yes, we are going to produce our own videos, both for shorts and reels and longer presentations We already have loads of ring lights, but we want to be able to make video material on the go

REGIME ROUND-UP

The challenges involved in creating unique video content

This will include vox pops and general discussions. 'What's in your cosmetics bag?' is going to be one of the ideas we explore through this medium.

Instagram and Facebook continue to be very poor channels for us at the moment. We have a lot of followers on the latter, but very few see our posts and even fewer engage with them. We hope to change this with reels and general videos.

On Twitter, we have become stuck and need to reach outside of our current following to achieve more.

The images on the following page each link to video content that we produced during our experiments across the various channels.

They are still available to view!

You don't have to be in a relationship to get a surprise this Valentine's Day. We are giving away a special beauty treat - and the winner will be revealed on February 14.

The prize will be either makeup or skincare, or a combination of both - and we will try to tailor it to your personal taste.

To be in with a chance, you need to be a subscriber of our fortnightly newsletter. Signup on our website here. The sign-up form is at the bottom of the page.

We will choose a winner from our list of subscribers. They will be notified by email, so make sure you check that our newsletters don't end up in your spam folder.

Please ensure you sign up with a valid and active email address. You must live in the UK to be eligible to win the prize.

The winner of our Christmas treat was Sally Hilton and she has been notified by email of her good fortune

We know that Valentine's Day isn't inclusive If you are not all loved up, you can feel a bit left out - that's why we've chosen to make the day about anyone this year

So, whether you celebrate this occasion or not, you still stand a chance of benefitting from it

Our previous competition winners have received everything from Elemis collections to spa sets and make-up

We hope you take the opportunity to join in Our newsletter focuses on beauty features and deals. Good luck!

Win a Valentine's Day surprise - a treat from us to you