This month we teamed up with Life Pharmacy to bring to our Sample Bar subscribers, a world of luxury! Life Pharmacy is well known in New Zealand for their large variety of luxurious brands, five of which Sample Bar brought straight to your front doorstep in May!

Here are the products that were sampled in our Limited Edition Life Pharmacy Glam Pack:

Our May glam packs contained a combination of five of these luxury products:  Lancôme Hypnose Custom- wear Volume mascara, Shiseido Pore Smoothing Corrector, PREVAGE® Anti-aging Daily Serum, Viva La Juicy Eau de Parfum spray, Clinique All about Eyes and Clinique Colour Surge Stay matte eye shadow.

Don’t forget to use your $10 off Life Pharmacy voucher on any full size product from your Life Pharmacy Glam Pack, by presenting the barcode on the product card!

Applying mascara is one of the easiest ways to create a fun, flirty look and give your eyes an instant pick me up. Even if you don’t wear a lot of eye makeup, using mascara will help bring depth to your eyes and make them appear bigger.  Knowing how to utilize your mascara is the best way to keep your lashes looking outstanding!

In order to find the mascara that is best suited to your lashes, you need to first focus on the desired effect you want. There are many different formulas that claim to improve your lashes in different ways (volumizing, thickening, lengthening), so focus on your key mascara needs.

Mascara is a staple part of many morning makeup routines, so it’s important to invest in the one that you know you delivers! The best option is to find one that actually does everything it promises, like Lancome Hypnose Custom- Wear Volume Mascara. This absolute gem of a mascara promises’ up to six times thicker lashes, thanks to its PowerFULL™ brush design whilst allowing you to have controllable, custom volume.

Here are some of the best tips for perfect mascara application:

1. Never pump your mascara after opening. This will only allow air bubbles to be pushed into the tube which can dry it out. To remove excess mascara which can lead to clumps, simply rub the sides of the brush on the opening of the mascara tube
2. If you choose to curl your lashes, make sure you start from the root of the lash, being careful not to catch any skin with it. Press the curler together and hold for 5-10 seconds then repeat at the end of the lash. Although this step is optional, it does help to open up your eye just that extra little bit.
3. It’s completely up to you whether you apply mascara to your bottom or top lashes first although if you start with your bottom lashes, you will avoid those annoying black dots on your eye lids that appear when you look up to do the bottom lashes. Start by applying mascara at the base of your lash using a small side-to-side movement, and then pull the brush to the end of your lashes. Using this motion will help to avoid any clumping.
4. Use a lash comb on your lashes before the mascara has a chance to dry if you are concerned about clumping.
5. Wait for your mascara to dry before applying a second coat on your top lashes for a fuller, longer look.

We hope these tricks and tips help get you on your way to having luscious lashes! You can purchase Lancôme Hypnose custom- wear volume mascara at any Life Pharmacy. Don’t forget to use the $10 voucher that came in your Limited Edition Life Pharmacy May Glam Pack!

Tailor skincare has truly been a great discovery for us here at Sample Bar. For any of you who have been trying to find an amazing face masque that is completely organic, then trying the Tailor masque and moisturizing mist is an absolute must!

The Tailor Masque is designed to draw toxins from the skin via electromagnetic force, which aids in the reduction of acne and stimulates blood flow, nourishing the skin and leaving you with a youthful radiance! We have tried this masque out and found that it actually does everything that it promises, which is so often hard to find when looking for a detoxing face masque.

Tailor believes that only pure and natural ingredients should be put into our skin so this is what they have put into their products, which aims to benefit the mind, body and skin. Their skincare range is made with ingredients that are:

- All natural
- Tested on humans NOT animals
- Completely free from nasty ingredients
- Completely eco free with eco free packaging
- Made in New Zealand

This masque is not just a face detox, it can also be used as a pimple treatment, facial cleanser, all over body masque and a cellulite treatment for firm skin. The mist is a refreshing moisture blast that can also be used on your whole body.

We think these two skincare products are a great combo and would be the perfect pamper treat for yourself or a loved one- especially with mother’s day fast approaching. We are hoping there will be more products like these from Tailor on the horizon! The Tailor Masque is available on our glam store at http://www.samplebar.co.nz/glamstore.html.

For more information about Tailor products and how to use them, watch this video tutorial:
                                          

                                                http://vimeo.com/m/62594557

GIVEAWAY! Tell us why you want to try Tailor Masque and Mist to win 1 of 2 Tailor Masque and Mist combination packs! We will also give two lucky runners up a Tailor Mist. Winners will be announced on Tuesday 30^th April, so make sure you get in quick.

With winter heading our way soon, the change in season can cause our skin to become extremely dry and in desperate need of some nourishment.  Not to mention, that those unwanted lines can start to add up with all the stress and worries of the day and these need to be cured too! If you’re too busy for a complicated beauty routine but still feel as though your skin needs some TLC, then we think you’re going to love this one. ANTIPODES-  Avocado Pear nourishing night cream is scientifically shown to stimulate synthesis of collagen production in human cells by up to 92%, impressive don’t you think?

Now we know the term beauty sleep didn’t come from nowhere and we think this night cream may just help to emphasise this phrase. This absolute gem of a night cream is packed with superior restorative qualities of 100% pure avocado oil and calendula oil from marigold petals, so we know we aren’t putting any nasty chemicals into our skin or using a cream that is harmful to the environment.

Now who doesn’t love a product that works while they sleep? Antipodes nourishing night cream is nature’s anti-aging by night to help give that moisture boost your skin needs throughout the day. The cream has New Zealand’s own manuka honey which we have found to be a miracle ingredient as it helps to soothe and moisten the skin. The potent antioxidant in the cream is Vinanza Grape, this is what helps to neutralise any free radical damage in your skin and stimulate the synthesis of collagen.

Antipodes has created a delicious and effective solution to dry skin with this nourishing night cream. If you would like some for yourself head to www.antipodesnature.com and let us know what you think!

GIVEAWAY! Tell us what you love most about Antipodes and you will be in the draw to win one of five Antipodes Avocado Pear Nourishing Night Cream. We will draw the winner's name on Monday 29th April, so be quick! 

It’s not very often we can get excited about a shampoo. I’m sure we have all tried the expensive salon products or cheap supermarket buys, but has anyone tried a shampoo bar before? Well now we can tell you we have discovered a shampoo worth getting excited about and it’s the type that doesn't come in a nasty plastic bottle. Impossible you say? Think again because the cleaver people at Sorbet have created a handy little solid shampoo bar and they have made one for every hair type.

There are so many reasons to go solid when it comes to shampoo. Sorbet solid shampoo bars have everything you are looking for in a shampoo, they not only make a fluffy lather that smells absolutely amazing but they do make a positive difference to your hair type.

Does anyone actually know half of the unnatural ingredients in our everyday shampoo products? Sorbet solid shampoo bars contain ingredients that are sourced sustainably with as few chemical processes as possible and are often certified organic, so we can all get that good feeling inside knowing you are using a product that is cruelty free and completely eco-friendly. Sorbet shampoo bars are so eco-friendly in fact, that you can take the bar just as you got it, into the shower with you and the wrapper will completely disappear, leaving only your delicious bar behind- just like magic!

Now we all know not everyone has the same needs for their hair, so Sorbet has created a variety of solid shampoo bars to suit all of us- there is even one for baby. These shampoo bars will last you up to 3 months with daily use, so you know you are definitely getting your money’s worth with this one! If you are planning a trip away, it would definitely be worth getting your hands on a few of these bars. No need to squeeze shampoo bottles into your already over packed bag, just put a couple of shampoo bars into your makeup bag and your set!

We think these Sorbet solid shampoo bars are absolutely genius! To find the best one for you go to the Sorbet website http://www.salonsorbet.co.nz.

Everyone loves the look and feel of freshly waxed legs. However, we're yet to find someone who actually enjoys the pain that comes with it. Ahhh, what we wouldn't give to have a relatively painless waxing experience! So you can imagine our delight when we found a product that gives us the same results as waxing with 75% less discomfort. We're talking about Sugaring here. Pharo's Sugaring formula is gentle on the skin, gives you up to twice the coverage that wax does, is significantly less painful (our favourite part), and has a sweet manuka honey fragrance.

So how does it work? The warm sugar formula allows pores to open up so that the sugaring wax attaches to the hairs and not to the skin. There are two things we love about this; the fact that it makes it less painful to remove the hair, and the fact that it won't remove your tan like wax does.  It is used in the same conventional way as wax is used (wax oooon, wax off!) so there's no need to learn new techniques.

Pharo Sugaring formula is especially good if you have sensitive skin as the natural ingredients help to heal and protect the skin. It also contains manuka honey which is rich in protein, vitamins and minerals, so your skin will be left feeling soft and smooth.

Why haven't we heard about this method of waxing earlier? Probably because we can't read Hieroglyphs. Sugaring is one of the oldest hair removal techniques on the planet. It was used by the Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt whose Hieroglyphs depict slave girls boiling a paste of sugar, lemon and water which they made into a ball and rolled over the skin of the Pharaohs to remove unwanted hair. The ancient Egyptians did some amazing things, who would have known that hair removal techniques were among them?

We're pretty eager to carry on this Ancient Egyptian tradition, we're just upset we haven't discovered it sooner. To feel like one of these Egyptian Pharaohs, having your legs waxed for you (and relatively painlessly we might add), click here and find a salon in your area that uses Pharo Sugaring products. Or you can order your own supply from the Pharo website and do it yourself.

If you do decide to give it a try, let us know how you get on!

These days it's hard to find a skincare range that does what it claims to do. It's even harder to find one that's all natural, with ingredients carefully chosen to revitalize your skin, utilizing their natural properties. The good news is that we've found a company that does just that, and we're giving you the download on it.

Evolu is a botanical skincare range, taking natural ingredients and using them to create amazing products. A daily skincare routine using Evolu products will leave your skin looking healthy and feeling soft while the all-natural ingredients ensure you're giving your skin the very best. What sort of Evolu products can you use for your daily skincare routine? Read on to find out...

RELAXING CRÈME CLEANSER

Start your morning with the Evolu Relaxing Crème Cleanser. This cleanser is beautifully balanced with bioactives to help your skin look young, soft and blemish-free. A combination of calendula (anti-aging), geranium (calming, improves circulation), apricot extract (softening and hydrating) and St John's Wort (calms inflamed skin, reduces blemishes) provide a deep clean to remove makeup and other impurities, without stripping the skin of its natural defences. Suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive and mature skin.

RENEWING FACIAL EXFOLIATOR

If you're feeling like an exfoliator rather than a cleanser, then the Renewing Facial Exfoliator is just the ticket. The jojoba beads and papaya extract will clarify your skin, while the geranium, lavender and manuka regenerate, heal and protect your skin, giving you a fresh start to the morning.

FIRMING EYE CREAM

Packed with antioxidants, this eye cream will get rid of puffy eyes when you've skipped some much needed beauty sleep. The cream is light and non-greasy and is gentle enough to be used twice a day so you can whip this out again in the afternoon for a refresher if you're feeling especially tired. Alfalfa seed extract and oat kernels are used with lupin extract to reduce puffiness, brighten dark circles and firm the delicate skin under your eyes.

ANTI-AGING DAY CREAM

For daytime protection, apply the Anti-Aging Day Cream to hydrate and infuse nutrients into your skin. The cream is full of plant and marine extracts that assist in cell regeneration, improve skin elasticity, moisturize and maintain radiance and the shea butter will give your skin a super soft feel. This is like a multivitamin for your skin!

REHYDRATING FACIAL MASQUE

If you manage to find time in your busy schedule to sit back and relax, the rehydrating facial masque is a good way to replenish your skin while you wind down. The vitamins and minerals in this masque (including kawakawa, borage oil, hazelnut, bergamot and sweet orange) help to rehydrate your skin, improve circulation and stimulate cell renewal. Who can argue with a facial masque that's hard at work while you're taking a much-needed break?

ANTI-AGING OVERNIGHT CREAM

"Beauty sleep" in every sense of the word, the Anti-Aging Overnight Cream is the final step in this daily skincare routine. This nutrient-rich overnight cream is packed with hard working bioactives to make sure that when you wake up, your skin is looking its best. Luxuriously soft and light, this cream rebalances your skin, and stimulates the skin's natural cell renewal process, so when you wake up in the morning your skin is glowing!

If you don't have time for an extensive skin care routine, you could stick to one or two of these gorgeous products, as each product can be found individually on Evolu's website. But we say the more the better! Get all the products and start your skin care regime today, or you can get the Evolu Travel Tower which incorporates each of the products mentioned above into a handy travel size pack. This could be helpful if you want to give your skin routine a trial run first!

Tell us about your daily skincare routine and you'll go into the draw to win the Evolu Anti-Aging Overnight Cream (75ml). We'll draw the winner's name in the next 24 hours, so be in quick!

It’s frightening to think about the number of facial cleansers, masques and scrubs we have in our bathroom at home, each one having its own specific purpose. Wouldn’t it be great to have one beauty product to rule them all? Well we found one that comes close - Carol Priest Almond & Lemonbalm Facial Scrub.

Carol Priest Natural Cosmetics is a New Zealand company that specializes in herbal skin care products. Everything used in their cosmetics is natural including the fragrances (synthetic fragrances are usually responsible for allergic skin reactions), and we love that about this brand!

So what's so special about the Almond & Lemonbalm Facial Scrub? Not only does it leave our skin amazingly soft and supple, but it doubles as a protein-rich face mask for those days when you feel like a bit more pampering is in order. Oh and did we mention it smells divine? The all-natural lemon fragrance gives your face a refreshing burst of life without feeling like you've lost any moisture from your skin. The ground almond scrubs gently to remove dirt and impurities and if you’re leaving the scrub on as a masque, it will give the natural essential oils a good chance to nourish your skin.

What we love about this product (aside from it being all-natural), is that it works as a facial scrub and as a masque which means less clutter in your bathroom cabinet – or if you're like us – room for more beauty products!

Head on over to the Carol Priest Natural Cosmetics website and get your hands on this little beauty. Be sure to check out all the other amazing Carol Priest products on the website too!

Evolu skincare is founded on one woman’s personal vision:
that the key to lasting beauty is natural balance.

Meet Kati Kasza – the founder of Evolu skincare.

Kati Kasza's belief in the power of plants to transform the skin inspired her to create this simple-yet-potent botanical system. Every Evolu formulation is customised to nourish and restore balance, returning your skin to its beautiful best. We interviewed Katie to find out a little more about the amazing lady behind the Evolu brand; and to see if we could get her to reveal her number one beauty secret because Kati has THE most beautiful skin we have ever seen!

SB:       We absolutely adore your botanical skincare range. What inspired you to create Evolu?

KK:       Well, the inspiration came from my upbringing.  Having Hungarian parents led me to appreciate all things natural from a very early age.  I learnt what plants could do to help you live a healthy life and then couldn’t for the life of me find sophisticated brand of beautiful botanical products on the market that I wanted to buy!  My mother inspired me to make my own, and the rest is history!

SB:       Of all the gorgeous Evolu products, which one is your favourite?

KK:       That's a hard one, but if I could only have one single product it would have to be the  Facial Serum.  I tell people the Facial Serum is my desert island product – you could drink it if you needed to – it has everything you need and smells absolutely heavenly.  It’s a powerhouse of anti-oxidants, yet, even though it’s an oil blend (jojoba, evening primrose, apricot kernel, rosehip oil, rose absolute, neroli and vanilla!), it soaks in quickly, leaving your skin incredibly smooth, hydrated and nourished.

SB:       One thing that grabbed our attention was your beautiful skin! What’s your number one beauty secret?

KK:       I always cleanse and tone, morning and night.  Our facial toner blows people away, as it is spritzed on and does not irritate or dry out the skin.  You simply spray it on and pat it in.  I wish I could show you how!  In fact, take a look at our YouTube channel and you’ll see how to use it.  The secret is that there is no added alcohol in this product, so it balances the skin’s natural pH, and prepares the skin for moisturising – the products just soak in beautifully and you get the most even tone to the skin.  I couldn’t do without this product either!

SB:       Name one thing your mum taught you about beauty…

KK:       Cleanse, tone and moisturise – and eat lots of vegetables that are high in anti-oxidants.  She didn’t really go into too much detail about beauty itself – she taught me more about living life to the fullest and appreciating every moment.  I guess that’s looking at beauty on a more holistic level.  She was very sophisticated without evening knowing it, and always dressed in a very stylish, timeless way.  She never was a show off, despite looking like a film star.  I think that comes from her European background and I certainly love that way of living and think beauty is something that comes from within to start with.  Then you can use some tricks to highlight your best points.

SB:       Luxury to you is...

KK:       That’s a hard one – as sometimes it’s taking a walk along one of our beautiful beaches with our two dogs, and another time it’s travelling business class to Paris.  I’m so very grateful for my beautiful family and incredible friends – luxury can be having the time to sit down around the dinner table with these special people for a few hours without any interruptions. And then luxury can be a fresh juice I’ve made in the morning after having been to Avondale markets on a Sunday morning with my husband Paul and daughter Mimi.  Shall I keep going?  I could!

SB:       You love Sample Bar because…

KK:       It’s a wonderful way for people to find out about what’s on the market by having the opportunity to try the products before they buy.  Also Sample Bar will find out what is hot on the market and will choose products that are suited to you.  Go Sample Bar!

If you’re anything like us, you’ve spent time and money on beauty products, trying to improve the look and feel of your skin, nails or hair. Well we’ve discovered an amazing range of products that go beyond your everyday topical beauty products. Bestow Beauty has a range of nutrient-rich beauty products – “edible cosmetics” as they call them – designed to enrich and bestow health and radiance to your body. Sounds amazing right?

Bestow Beauty channels the belief that for thousands of years, the secrets of beauty were bestowed upon women – passed down by mothers and grandmothers from generation to generation. In recent years this knowledge has been lost and Bestow Beauty has made it their business to restore this knowledge, utilizing what Mother Nature has created.

Bestow Beauty Powder is an enriching blend of kelp, flaxseed fibre, spirulina, alfalfa, wheatgrass, coconut, blackcurrant extract and pumpkin flour designed to enhance your skin, leaving it smooth and more radiant. With a delicious taste and beautifying properties, we can’t really see a downside to this product.

So what exactly does Bestow Beauty Powder do for your skin?

• It helps to improve your skin from the inside with ingredients that naturally aid your body in producing quality collagen and elastin (you know, the good stuff that makes you look younger!).
• Together with Bestow Beauty Oil, it can support the protective film of the skin.
• The vitamins and minerals in Bestow Beauty Powder can aid in the quality and growth of your hair and nails too!

How the team at SBHQ recommend you use Bestow Beauty Powder:

• Throw it into the mix with your favourite breakfast smoothie, or sprinkle it over porridge or cereal.
• We like it baked into muffins – who can refuse a baked treat that’s delicious AND healthy?
• Not a breakfast person? We can relate. Sprinkle the powder on other foods such as soups or a stir fry. Yummo!

We love this product and we know you will too, so if you want to add it to your daily routine, head along to our Glam Store and get this delicious treat sent your way. Or if you want to see the full range of Bestow Beauty products, check out their website for more info.

GIVEAWAY!

We also want to know YOUR beauty secrets - do you take any foods or supplements that have a surprising effect on your hair, skin or nails? Tell us about your "edible cosmetics" and the first five people to comment will receive a beautifully presented recipe bundle from the team at Bestow Beauty - filled with delicious recipes that will get the taste buds going and the skin glowing!

If you're based in Auckland and are a bit like us here at SBHQ (a tad obsessed with ‘lash extensions’) then you've probably already heard of Cerise Lash & Makeup.  Cerise was founded in 2006 by Elisia Webb and they were the first specialty eyelash salon in New Zealand.  They've applied thousands of sets of lash extensions over the past seven years and we've been lucky enough to of had first-hand experience with Cerise lashes; and we definitely have nothing but ‘lash-love’ for the fabulous team that applied our ‘wink-worthy' lashes.

Here’s how it works…
Cerise lashes are applied individually, each to a single natural lash, to ensure optimum comfort and a seamless application. Their lashes are all cruelty-free, hypo-allergenic synthetics that are very lightweight and they customise each set to suit each unique client. Their adhesives are of high-quality surgical standards. Clients are reclined comfortably on a beauty bed with their eyes closed (we've heard some clients even fall asleep), to ensure absolute relaxation during the treatment, and a full consultation is included with every treatment. Cerise guarantees gorgeous, feathery lashes that feel as good as they look, and give a confidence boost that every woman deserves.

Why get lash extensions?  Well, here's a few really great reasons...

• Create beautiful eyes so you look and feel incredibly confident every day.
• Fuller and longer lashes enhance your femininity, creating that perfect first impression.
• Wake up beautiful and save time in the morning.
• Natural and believable, customized to suit your eye shape and desired look.
• No need for mascara or eyelash curler ever again

Check out some of the amazing work by the Cerise team:

Cerise has 2 salons in the Auckland region; one in Grey Lynn, the second in Albany of the North Shore.  Head along to either of their salons or check them out online now: http://cerise.co.nz/lashes.html

Dermalogica has got all the best tips to see you through the 'change of season', plus some super helpful 'decoding' of the symbols we often see on skincare packaging, but have no idea what they actually mean.  Read on to find out all about these things and more...

“A change of season is a great opportunity to take a good look at our skin care products.

Begin by checking the expiry dates on skin care products that contain SPF or OTC acne ingredients. Ensuring the products are still within the date shown confirms that the active ingredients will still be viable.

Products without an expiry date will often have a PAO (period after opening) symbol on the packaging. It usually looks like an open cosmetic cream jar with a number followed by the letter “M”, which refers to ‘month’. This symbol will give you an idea of how long the product can be safely used without causing harm after it is opened.

The change of the season is a perfect time to get a professional to look at your skin and give you an update on what is happening. They can advise you on how to keep your skin in perfect health and looking great. They can also help with any skin concerns you have.

Invest in a series of professional skin treatments.  A package of 3 treatments over 6 weeks will have your best skin ever ready for the change of season.

Cosmetic scientists are working constantly in the area of product development with incredible advances in ingredient technology. Skin care brands like Dermalogica are continuously updating and improving formulas. Also new products are released to fill the needs of consumers.  Keep in touch with your favourite skin care brands through skin centres or social media so you are the first to know about new products or formula updates.

End of summer skin can look a little dull. It’s the perfect time to incorporate some key brightening ingredients into your skin care routine.  Ingredients like lactic acid and rice bran are great brighteners; vitamin C and liquorice also freshen up dull skin. These ingredients can be found in cleansers, exfoliants and treatment products such as serums.

Cooler weather also means a drop in humidity which causes skin to dehydrate. Dehydrated skin will feel tight, have fine lines visible and sometimes look flaky. As the temperature drops your skin will benefit from a hydrating serum underneath your moisturiser and a hydrating masque application 2 – 3 times through the week.

We mustn’t neglect the skin on our body just because we start to cover it up more so a nourishing body cream applied after showering will keep your skin soft and supple.  Use the 3 minute rule and apply your body moisturiser within 3 minutes of getting out of the bath or shower for best results.

Remember sun screen is mandatory all year round. Don’t be fooled into thinking that you don’t have to worry about UV rays during winter.  UVA rays are present all year round during daylight.”

Spa Ayurda offers something quite different than the typical Auckland luxury day spa experience.

Located in the heart of Ponsonby in Auckland, Spa Ayurda's holistic wellness day spa treatments are based upon the centuries-old tradition of Ayurveda that leads to wellness and rejuvenation of the body, mind & spirit.

Their revitalising and therapeutic treatments are customised to your unique body type and particular needs to help you achieve total wellbeing.  Spa Ayurda offers a variety of day spa treatments including deluxe natural facials, Ayurvedic massage and other holistic rituals such as the Shirodhara to help you relax and let go of all stress and tension. They offer various facial spa treatments including our specialty acne facial (silver facial) as well as an anti-aging 24ct gold facial.

Based on your unique requirements, your experienced spa therapist will use specific therapeutic oils, herbs and aromas to provide you with optimal balance and nourishment for your mind-body constitution.  Much more than a pampering day spa experience, Spa Ayurda's treatments will leave you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.

Discover the science of life…

Ayurveda is one of the oldest systems of healing. The literal meaning of the word ‘Ayurveda’ is the science of life.  It is five thousand years of wisdom distilled into a system of practice. Ayurveda is a complete philosophy and is much more than the wellbeing of the body. Ayurveda defines health as 'Purity' of the body, mind and soul. It leads not only to the wellbeing of the individual but to the wellbeing of the universe as it restores harmony and balance to our lives.

Ayurveda recognises that we all are different and that each of us has a unique mind and body. It acknowledges that the mind and body are not two separate entities but are closely intertwined. Because we are all unique and different, Ayurveda gives us the tools and knowledge to customise treatments and regimes that work on healing both the energetic and physical bodies.

According to Ayurveda each individual is unique, a combination of physical, mental & emotional characteristics which are known as his/her constitution (Prakruti). Many factors, both internal as well as external can affect this constitution eg. one’s emotional state, diet, daily food choices, season and weather, physical trauma, job and family relationships. Once we understand that these factors can cause an imbalance in our constitution we have a choice to take appropriate action to nullify or minimise their effects to eliminate the cause.

Ayurveda recognises three primary energies, Vata, Pitta & Kapha. Together they regulate every physiological and psychological characteristic from basic cellular processes to the most complex biological functions. When these forces are in a state of natural balance the defence mechanism of the body works at peak efficiency.

• Vata – represents momentum. It is responsible for all the bodily activities and sensations. It controls the movement of blood through the circulatory system, breathing, the delivery of nutrients to the cells and the removal & excretion of waste products. In balance it promotes flexibility & creativity. Out of balance it produces fear & anxiety.
   
• Pitta – represents metabolism. It governs digestion and metabolic transformation of nutrients into biologically usable forms. It also imparts the capacity to absorb ideas and impressions and bestows intelligence and an enthusiasm for life. In balance it promotes understanding & intelligence. Out of balance it produces anger, hate & jealousy.
   
• Kapha – provides substance and support. It gives strength and stability, both physically and psychologically. It enhances resistance to disease and promotes the healing process.  In balance it promotes love, calmness & forgiveness. Out of balance it produces attachment, greed & envy.

Life challenges us with many opportunities. Although there is much over which we have little control, we do have the power to determine our lifestyle and manage our stress levels. To maintain balance and wellbeing it is important to give attention to these decisions.

To help you achieve overall wellbeing, Ayurda Spa treatments and products are customised to your individual constitution which strengthen the body, mind and consciousness.

EXCLUSIVE SAMPLE BAR MEMBERS ONLY OFFER:  

Given no two people have the same skin needs and customised skincare is so important in understanding your specific skin requirements, Ayurda Skincare as an exclusive members only offer.  Head over to http://nz.ayurda.com/nz/know-your-skin.htm and take complete this simple online ‘skin test’ (it will only take you 3 minutes max) to discover all your skin needs.  Then, once you’ve done the skin test you can buy an ‘Ayurda Introductory Skin Care Programme’ for just $99 (usually $139) AND receive a complimentary Ayurda Radiance night cream valued at $69.95.  Just enter promo code ‘BEAUTY’ at checkout.  PLUS receive FREE SHIPPING on all New Zealand orders with this special offer!  That’s a saving of over $100! Valid until 30 April.

 I think it’s fair to say that we can all relate to needing a little bit of ‘me time’!  Long hours in the office, running around after the kids, never-ending study sessions – all of these things contribute to feeling stressed and wound up.   Sometimes you just need some pampering to make you feel like, well, you again!  Coming into winter you have the perfect excuse to do just that, pamper yourself.  A long hot bath with all the right ingredients you need to unwind, relax and soothe away the tension.  Enter SpaRitual Organic Bath Salts…..

Clear your mind and boost your focus while renewing your skin with this multi-functional formula from SpaRitual. Organic oils instantly balance and soothe while a blend of sea salts, epsom salts and rosa clay work to detoxify and calm stressed skin. You’re left feeling pure, focused and at peace with the world. Made with 70% certified organic ingredients, SpaRitual Organic Bath Salts soothe and soften skin. Essential Oil balances the root chakra to balance the mind and body. This multipurpose mineral salt is infused with a perfect blend of Sea Salts, mineral-rich Dead Sea Salts, Epsom Salts and Corylus Clay to detoxify, soothe, firm and tone the skin.

Each treatment has subtle fragrance and therapeutic benefits that energize a specific chakra.  The chakras are seven forces within the body that work together as a delicate energy system.  When they function and interact optimally, our minds, bodies and spirits are centered. And our aura, an invisible energy field which surrounds us, is vibrant.  SpaRitual has custom-designed salon and spa rituals to balance the chakras, beautify the aura and pamper hands, body and feet.

Dedicated to the spa tradition, SpaRitual is committed to creating eco-friendly products and packaging perfectly crafted for the enlightened consumer. They use Vegan ingredients from around the world, including many specially sourced and selected plant essences that are wildcrafted OR organic. The formulations are naturally coloured and free of synthetic dyes. SpaRitual is constantly monitoring sustainability issues and strives to be on the cutting edge of environmental awareness. Enlighten yourself. Be a SpaRitualist. Because we all deserve to live the good life.

How does Heidi Klum achieve that supermodel ‘height’ with her luscious locks? By using the new Schwarzkopf Extra Care Instant Volume Powder. Don’t be fooled by the tiny price tag (RRP$7.29) because this product truly delivers! 

So simple to use, just shake out the powder, run it through your roots and voila – lift off.  You’ll have hair with va voom for the next 24 hours.

It’s safe to say the girls at SBHQ are obsessed with this new beauty find – we think you will be too!

xoxo

We’ve got the answers to all your tricky skin questions!!  We took the 20 most frequently asked questions you submitted to the SB Dermalogica Skin Lounge and had the expert team at Dermalogica report back with the solutions to all your skin woes.   And here they are…

Q.  I sometimes get small white bumps on my face – mainly my cheeks, but they’re not pimples. What’s the cause of these and what’s the best way to get rid of them?

A.  It sounds like they are milia. These form when our own skin oil (called sebum) is unable to flow out onto the surface of the skin and forms a small plug, because the oil is covered over by skin cells it doesn’t change colour as it does with a blackhead but instead stays white. They are often caused by using products that are too heavy or occlusive on your skin e.g. a moisturiser that is too rich, or they often appear around our eyes as a result of an eye cream that is too rich or even very coating eye shadows.  Milia are not super easy to get rid of and sometimes need to be removed professionally by a qualified skin therapist. I suggest starting by making sure you have a really thorough cleansing and exfoliating routine happening. You could also look at using a microfoliant on the days you aren’t using an exfoliant at home.  Also check the products that you use regularly on your cheeks (make up, sunscreen etc)  – anything that is smudge proof or waterproof could be contributing to the milia simply because these products stick to your skin really well.

Q.  Can you recommend anything to help treat dark circles under my eyes?  I’ve heard that Hydrocortisone cream can lessen the darkness and help reduce – is this true?

A.  I have not heard of hydrocortisone used to treat dark circles under eyes before – you would need to ask a pharmacist or Doctor about that. Sometimes dark circles are hereditary, in which case the only option is to use concealer to cover them.  Dark circles can also be related to tiredness or even allergies like eczema and asthma.  Another cause of dark circles is leaky capillaries and as the skin around our eyes is thinner than on the rest of our face, we can see the result of the breakdown of haemoglobin in our blood through the skin. Some ingredients to look for in eye creams are caffeine and Fraxinus bark extract as these both help strengthen your blood capillaries and are a source of anti oxidants, which prevent the breakdown of haemoglobin.

Q.  I’ve been burnt by hair removal cream on my upper lip and it’s caused a dark scaring which I am embarrassed by – can you recommend ANYTHING at all that you think would help treat this to lessen the scaring it’s left?

A.  It depends how deep the burn was to your skin and how long your skin was inflamed for.  If it happened recently (i.e. within the last 12 weeks) and your skin was not severely burnt -(i.e. didn’t scab) - you might find it will lighten up again to normal skin colour quite easily.  If it was longer than this then the hyperpigmentation could be deep, in which case it’s very difficult to lighten. The most important thing to make sure you are doing is to wear a spf 30 or more every day and reapply it when you are outside every 2 hours. Using products that contain ingredients like lactic acid and vitamin C can help lighten the pigmentation but it is important that you use them consistently. Go and see a qualified Skin Therapist or a Dermatologist for some professional advice.

 

Q.  I have noticed small flat dark spots (slightly larger than a freckle) appearing on my face (I’ve been told by friends they are ‘sun spots’).  Is there anything I can do to get rid of them or lighten them?  Does dark spot corrector really work?

A.  Sun spots (or Lentigines) are very common in New Zealand and most people will develop them somewhere on their exposed skin. They are due to sun exposure which causes the pigment producing cells to over produce pigment in isolated areas. They can be treated with IPL laser or you can try brightening products these will contain ingredients like vitamin C and lactic acid.  I’m not familiar sorry with the dark spot corrector so can’t comment on that but it is unlikely that you will find a product to return the skin to its normal colour, more likely that it will lighten it for you so it is less noticeable.  Remember to use an spf 30 plus each day to help reduce the appearance of more.

Q.  Is there anything that could help reverse sunburn damage?

A.  Sun burn damage to skin can manifest in many different ways.  If there are any changes to skin in the form of lesions that don’t heal up or moles that appear, then you would need to have a doctor look at them.  If the sun burn has caused skin aging then vitamin A has been shown in many studies to help normalize the skin cell behaviour and reverse skin aging.

Q.  What’s the best thing to help combat and reduce eczema on my face?  My doctor has prescribed Hydrocortisone, but I really hate the thought of using such a strong product around the paper-thin skin that surrounds my eyes.

A.  Barrier Repair products are needed to help the skin recover, these have ingredients like Evening Primrose oil.  Look for serum concentrates that contain oat extracts and chamomile to help soothe the irritated skin plus lipid blends like Evening Primrose oil, avocado sterols and sunflower glycerides.  Products that have been tested by a dermatologist like Dermalogica’s Ultra Calming segment will help you – start with Barrier Repair.

Q. What do you think is less harsh when defining eyebrows – waxing, tweezing or threading?

A.  Each form of hair removal has its advantages; waxing leaves a very clean finish as it removes even fine microscopic hairs.  The advantage with tweezing and threading is that the hairs are removed without the skin distension (stretching) that occurs with the removal of the wax. Threading is usually faster than tweezing and also tends to pick up very fine hairs that are not always easy to remove with tweezers.  Personally I’m a bit of a threading fan.

Q.  Is there one product that will effectively remove my makeup?  I am sick of cleansing my face, toning and having to use a facecloth to remove my foundation thoroughly, only to still see remnants on my towel when I dry my face.

A.  Many makeup products are now designed to stick to your skin really well which is what gives them their long lasting, water and smudge proof qualities. As you said the problem is that they become really difficult to remove from the skin.  Look for cleansing oil like Dermalogica’s Pre Cleanse which uses a ‘like attracts like’ approach.  The Pre Cleanse contains 5 different oils which bind to the oil in your makeup and sunscreen when applied to dry skin, then by adding water it becomes a milky emulsion (no longer oil) that can be wiped off your skin.  This will remove the majority of your makeup and you then follow with your regular cleanser as a second cleanse to finish off.  The end result is amazing clean fresh skin.

Q.  I’m an expecting mum – are there any skincare products that I should be avoiding?

A.  It is always best to discuss this with your Doctor or Midwife as they are the experts in that field.  Ingredients that you should ask about are vitamin A (Retinol) and Salicylic acid especially when used in high concentrations as they are in professional products.  It is also often recommended that while you are pregnant you avoid essential oils so it’s good to get some advice on those types of things from your health provider.

Q.  I get ingrown hairs, yet I exfoliate and do all the so called ‘right things’.  Can you recommend anything to help stop me getting these?

A.  This is difficult as it does sound like you’re doing the things you should. Regarding the exfoliation try using a buffing cloth daily over the waxed area – just put your body wash onto the cloth first.  Keep the skin moisturised so it’s easier for the new hairs to push through the surface of the skin and a lot of people get a great result from using post shave balm products that contain ingredients like vitamin B (Niacinamide), prickly pear extract and salicylic acid.

Q.  I always get dry skin, especially my hands, at the change of any season.  Why is this and what can I do to help reduce this happening.  I drink loads of water!!

A.  The water we drink mostly helps our internal body and has a small impact on our skin.  The most likely cause of your dry hands is the hand wash you use. It sounds like your hand wash is too strong for your skin.  Many hand washes contain ingredients that will strip out critical oils and leave our hands extremely dry.  Artificial fragrance, s.d.alcohol and detergents are ingredients that can do this.  Invest in a really good quality hand cream that doesn’t use artificial fragrance or s.d.alcohol and apply it often through the day.  Finally our climate impacts on exposed skin so during winter wear gloves to protect your hands form extreme cold and wind.

Q.  Should I be using face masques?  My friends say they use them, but I just don’t have a lot of time.  Is there one in particular you would recommend and how often should I be using them?

A.  Face masques are problem solvers for skin and are generally products that perform a specific function. Examples are clay masques that will draw excess oil and impurities from your skin, or hydrating treatment masques that are like giving your skin an extra drink of water which goes deeper than moisturiser and the effects last longer.  Regarding whether you should use one or not… if you’re investing in good quality skin care then using a masque will enhance the action of your other products and improve your skin health.  Time wise they are best on your skin for 10-15 minutes – this could be the time it takes for you to sort out your clothes after you get out of the shower.

Q.  How often should I be using an exfoliator on my face?

A.  Most exfoliants are able to be used 2 times per week although it will vary a bit depending on what type of exfoliant it is and on your skin tolerance.  A good gauge is to see how your skin is after the exfoliation; it should feel very clean, smooth and soft.  If you experience stinging or redness then it is best to get some professional advice on a more suitable exfoliant for your skin.

Q.  Is there any way that I can stop the fine little red veins that have been appearing on my face lately?  They mainly show up around my nose?

A.  They are tiny broken capillaries.  Some people are more susceptible than others to developing them - you basically inherit a genetic tendency for them.  Those that develop around your nose are often caused by the trauma of blowing your nose.  In terms of stopping them it is important to treat your skin gently – don’t use abrasive scrubs etc on your skin.  You can also get them treated with IPL to remove them.

Q.  I’ve heard that even drinking loads of water doesn’t necessarily mean I’m keeping my skin well hydrated.  What’s the best product for me to use (whole body) to keep my skin hydrated?

A.  You need to use products that contain ingredients known as humectants. These are ingredients that have an ability to bind water to them, so they can retain the moisture and hydration in your skin and keep it supple and plump. For your face look for a good quality moisturiser with humectant ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid and hydrators like Cucumber and Aloe Vera. Also look at putting a hydrating serum underneath for intense hydration benefits. For your body look for ingredients like Evening Primrose Oil, Glycolipids and Vitamin E in your moisturiser and be sure to apply it within 3 minutes of getting out of the bath or shower for the best results.

Q.  How do I stop getting really dry elbows – I think it looks ugly and it kinda hurts so I’d love to know the best product to treat this.

A.  Firstly use a body exfoliant like a scrub regularly in the shower to remove the dry skin – and then use a rich moisturiser with ingredients like Shea butter and vitamin E 2x daily.  Also try not to lean on your elbows through the day.

Q.  Is there any way to fade or diminish freckles?

A.  Freckles are genetic and are stimulated to appear by UV rays.  The best way to reduce the appearance of freckles is to minimize your UV exposure by wearing an spf 30 or higher each day plus a hat.  Including some vitamin C in your skin care can help brighten your skin.

Q.  My face always feels quite tight after I’ve washed/cleansed by face.  Why is this?  Am I supposed to lather on moisturiser straight after washing my face?

A.  It sounds like your cleanser might be too strong for your skin.  Cleansers contain ingredients that will lift excess oil off our skin, plus make up sunscreen and pollutants, and they will be formulated in different strengths.  If your skin is oily and you notice an oily shine through the day then you could use a cleanser formulated for oily skin with stronger active surface cleansing agents in it, in contrast if your skin is not oily and you use a cleanser like that it will remove critical lipids and oils from your skin and leave a tight feeling or even flaking skin.  Go and see a professional skin therapist for advice on the type of cleanser best for you i.e. milky or gel based.  It is always best though to apply your moisturiser while your skin is still a little damp – preferably after you have used a toner.

Q.  My skin always looks really dull and some girls skin just seems to glow – how do I achieve glowing skin?

A.  There are some great skin care ingredients for brightening your skin and giving your complexion a fresh healthy glow.  My favourite brightening ingredients are vitamin C, lactic acid and rice bran. You will find these types of ingredients in products like exfoliants or a microfoliant (which is a very gentle daily use skin smoothing products).  Vitamin C is also often used in a serum which can go underneath your moisturiser.

Q.  Is there any way to avoid stretch marks?  A lot of my family members have stretch marks on their thighs and I really want to avoid getting them too, so I want to know if there is something I can do now to help ward off stretch marks.

A.  As you have close family members with stretch marks you might be more at risk of developing them, but not necessarily.  Stretch marks occur when there are small tears in the connective tissue.  The best precautions against stretch marks is to keep your skin supple and moisturised, look for a good quality body moisturiser which preferably contains a vitamin blend including vitamin E and essential oils.  Make sure you apply it within 3 minutes of getting out of the bath or shower.
 

Thanks to everyone that sent in their skin queries and a SPECIAL THANK YOU to our friends at Dermalogica for handing out all this amazing expert advice.
SBHQ xo

Everyday elements can wreak havoc on our skin - change of season,  dehydration, stress, long work hours, and the ultimate beauty sin - not removing our makeup before bed!.  All of these things can leave our skin looking a tad worse for wear.  But not to worry, we’ve got you covered with CAROL PRIEST – Almond and Lemonbalm Facial Scrub.  This skin saviour really does do it all when it comes to repairing and rehydrating, leaving your skin looking youthful and radiant.

Carol Priest Almond & Lemonbalm Facial Scrub is for all skin types.   A gentle deep cleansing protein rich exfoliant.  The smooth nut paste consistency is prepared using blanched ground almonds and essential oils of red manuka, lemongrass, lemonbalm, gum benzoin resin and pure distilled water to safely and gently remove daily build-up of dead skin cells and impurities. This stimulates the skin to produce new healthy cells leaving it feeling clean and revived.  Best of all, it can be left on as a rich protein mask treatment.

Carol Priest Almond & Lemonbalm Facial Scrub is available at: 
www.carolpriest.co.nz

Meet Penny Vergeest, the brains and beauty behind the NZ Skincare Company and the amazing geoskincare range!!

The NZ Skincare Company is a certified organic manufacturing company based in Hamilton, New Zealand. They manufacture skincare products along with handcrafted soaps and home care products. Their core range of products is ‘geoskincare’ which is a certified organic skincare range.

We caught up with Penny Vergeest; the Director of the NZ Skincare Company to find out what inspired her to create the Geoskincare range…

SB: So I guess our first question is pretty obvious Penny - what did inspire you to create geoskincare?

PV:  During my training as a beauty therapist, I began researching the beneficial properties of natural extracts and minerals and their effect on the body and skin, inspiring the formulation of the original geoskincare range. At the time there was a desperate need for affordable skincare in beauty therapy - there were many imported brands in our clinics, but no New Zealand made, natural or affordable products. I have a real belief in the fact that skincare products go much deeper than just the physical. Customers who suffer from skin disorders, breakouts and poor skin are affected in many ways emotionally and physically and this has a big impact on other aspects of life. I have a real passion for educating customers on how to look after their body and skin and offer practical steps to achieving total wellness.

SB:  What ingredients can we find in your products?

PV:  geoskincare products are made from pure extracts, organic oils and unique minerals found only in New Zealand’s geothermal regions. Our products are full of organic ingredients derived from natural products such as avocado, cocoa butter, carrot, chamomile, kowhai, cucumber, juniperberry, lime, grapeseed and macadamia. The unique ingredient in geoskincare products is geothermal silica, sourced exclusively in New Zealand. Silica is the building block of cell growth, used by virtually every cell in the body. Often referred to as ‘the beauty mineral’, it helps keep the skin hydrated and hair and nails looking healthy and strong. 

SB: Why is natural beauty important to you?

PV: We are all created beautifully and I see so many women trying to achieve the ‘perfect’ face and body and becoming miserable doing it.  It is time we celebrate our natural beauty, of who we are and who we were created to be!  I also don’t believe we need to be putting toxic chemicals on our skin every day in order to achieve natural beauty.

SB: Can you share with us your natural skincare tips?

PV:  Healthy living is about consistency. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle is the key to success and these five great tips will help you create a healthy body and skin…

PROTECT YOUR SKIN 
Apply sunscreen to the skin before you moisturise and ensure you always wear a minimum of spf15.

HYDRATE YOUR BODY 
Drink plenty of water and minimise your intake of dehydrating irritants like alcohol and caffeine.

MAINTAIN YOUR SKIN 
Use a good quality skincare system to cleanse, hydrate and moisturise - morning and night.

MOVE YOUR BODY 
Eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables to maintain a stable weight. Exercise at least three times a week.

REST AND RELAX          
Sleep and relaxation are vital for your body to repair and replenish itself. Ensure you get plenty of rest. 

Head to www.geoskincare.com to check out the entire geoskincare range.

Autumn is well underway, and with that brings windswept, unmanageable hair! To keep you looking Autumn cool we've pulled together four key looks to inspire your style. Keep in mind your locks will stay styled longer, pinned back with an extra layer of hair spray to see you through from morning to night.  

If you're anything like us, you see the breath-taking Victoria's Secret models and wonder how on earth these women can look just so damn perfect all the time! While we do admit, amazing genes, constant dieting, workouts, and a team of professional make-up & hair stylists play a big part in their flawless looks, there's one last secret that NZ has yet to discover... Booty Parlor!

Our stunning range of Booty Parlor products includes everything you need to make you look & feel 'model-esque'. The Booty Parlor range is a favourite of celebrities, models and fashion magazines alike so get your hands on these products now - our stock won't last long!

1.Flirty Little Secret Firming Bronzer, 2. Flirty Little Secret Firming Cream,  3. Kissaholic Lip Gloss 4.Dust Up

We're loving the Incoco self-stick nail strips here at SB HQ - these handy kits come with absolutely everything you need to achieve the PERFECT DIY manicure. Once applied (you can watch Incoco's handy application video here) - these nail strips are super long wearing and look oh so professional! We've jazzed up our Incoco nail strips by cutting out this cute aztec inspired design and have then applied them to freshly painted nails - easy as that!

Be sure to sound off in the comments how you're wearing your Incoco nail strips! Even better - we'd love to see them so send your pics to customerservice@samplebar.co.nz

Source: polyvore.com, sipgate.com, hillsborough-nj.org, suturi.com, beautifulcreaturenovels.com, fitnessmagazine.com

Like most of you ladies, the team here at Sample Bar HQ have very different (but equally hectic) lifestyles and varying commitments outside of work - motherhood, study, social events, and the ever dreaded workout time... just to name a few.  Most of us are simply so busy that the amount of time we get to rest up and rejuvenate seems to be cut back to a bare minimum - and wow does our skin suffer.

Because we totally get the effect a hectic schedule has on your skin, we've partnered up with Shiseido to bring you all a gorgeous product that will add a whole new dimension to the phrase 'beauty sleep'. 

Working together with Shiseido's amazing team we figured out that for most of us ladies the few hours of shut-eye we get is often our only down-time. So why not let Shiseido take care of your skin while you sleep, with their divine "Night Moisture Recharge Enriched" cream. This multi-action night time revitaliser counteracts signs of daytime damage and delivers intensive hydrating benefits to your skin while you sleep - now we can all wake up ready to face another day with a glowing complexion to match!

source: purestheicskincare.com

Available at all amazing Shiseido counters nationwide. For more information visit: www.nz.shiseido.com

  Source: Warner Bros, Pictures

We're just a tiny bit obsessed with the Beautiful Creatures books (and now movie!!) here at SB HQ. The Beautiful Creatures series is packed with magic and mystery, giving us all a chance to escape our everyday lives and let our imaginations run wild! If you haven't read the books yet, Beautiful Creatures is set in Gaitlin, South Carolina - a sleepy town where everybody knows everyone's business and nothing ever changes! That is until Lena Duchannes arrives in town driving her recluse Uncle's hearse and set to stir things up in a big way. We won't spoil any more of the plot other than to say this book is worth a read and the Movie looks even better!

We are loving the moody make-up look worn by the main characters Lena and Ridley in the film and with Autumn fast approaching we predict their plum lips, flawless skin and dark (& sparkly) nail polish will be right on trend too!

We've picked out a selection of products to magically turn you all into 'Beautiful Creatures' (from left to right): Ulta3 Nail Colour (Midnight & Silver Glitter), Booty Parlor's Kissaholic Lip Gloss (Swoon), Savoir Faire Lip Stick (Opulence), Savoir Faire Concealer, & Booty Parlor's Dust Up Body Shimmer. 

SB: We'd love to know how you became so successful. Do you have a beauty background?

HC: No - not at all, I actually started off in hairdressing and became interested in Trichology - the study of scalp and hair conditions. I eventually moved to London where I heard about Greasepaint - an AMAZING make-up school! I literally had to beg, borrow and steal to pay for my tuition but that's kind of the story of my life, nothing is planned and everything happens organically.

SB: Wow! You've obviously had a pretty interesting career! How did you come up with the idea for Solution Buds?  

HC: The idea was born while I was working in the make-up team for the BBC Production "Paradise Cafe" in Rarotonga! The show was filmed in 42 degree weather and we were all literally melting!  I was spending half the shoot standing on set fixing up makeup with cotton buds, make-up remover and a cloth to dry off the residue. It was then that I thought to myself - there just must be a better way and from there my Solution Buds were born!

SB: We see you've done make-up for some very famous faces, who's been your favourite celeb client?

HC: It would have to be Evangeline Lilly! She's a really good friend of mine and has actually taken some of my Solution Buds back to the US to give to all her famous friends! She's also fronting the brand for me over there.

SB: We think your Solution Buds are a must-have product for every 'girl on the go'! What's next for the Hil Cook brand?

HC: Oh sooo much! I have another AMAZING product in the works right now - it's still under wraps so I can't say too much about it, but watch this space!

SB: If you had five minutes to spare, what's your 'failsafe' beauty routine?

HC: I absolutely always wear tinted moisturiser, highlighter, mascara and probably a bit of shimmer!

SB: What's in your beauty bag?

HC: My Solution Buds of course! I also have a highlighter pen, mascara, and this amazing Camel coloured eye shadow - it's the perfect colour against my blue eyes - people actually stop to ask me if I'm wearing contacts when I have it on!

SB: I love Sample Bar because...

HC: I REALLY love that more people get to discover my Solution Buds!

source: sromans.mymarkstore.com

A bronzed, glowing complexion teamed with dewy, full lips is our go-to beauty look for 2013. It's hot, simple and sure to turn a few heads! When applied properly it gives us a sun-kissed glow and can create contours we never knew we had. In saying that, there's a fine line between the right amount of bronzer and looking like Lindsay Lohan! To prevent you all from looking like Lohan, we've put together a few simple tips to get you bronzing like a pro in no time. Complete the look with a swish of ModelCo's super scrummy lip gloss and you're good to go!

 1.ELF Bronzing Powder. 2. ModelCo Shine Ultra Lip Gloss. 3. Bronzer Brush. 4. Mirror

1. The Brush - Select a soft brush that has a wide, rounded top (small, stiff brushes will give you a blotchy finish). If possible select a brush made from natural fibres.

2. The Bronzer - We love the ELF bronzing powder, because it's gives an even amount of colour and has a subtle hint of sparkle. Swirl your brush in the bronzer and tap off any excess product to ensure an even application.

3. The Application -  Apply Bronzer to areas of your face the sun naturally 'kisses' using very light sweeping motions. Start with the top of your forehead, then sweep just below the check bones (as pictured below). You could also try applying a small amount to the chin and on either side of your nose.

4. The Lip - Using the ModelCo Lip Gloss applicator, swipe a generous amount of gloss over your lips! The handy mirror on the side of this Lip Gloss makes application a dream!

Source: yassysblog.wordpress.com

In our books, dental hygienist Hiromi is one impressive lady! Born in Tokyo she now lives and works (non-stop) in New Zealand and has developed her very own innovative beauty product – Tooth Spa. Hiromi created Tooth Spa to meet the needs of her patients who were looking for an all-natural product that didn't foam or irritate sensitive gums! We were lucky enough to snag a minute of Hiromi's time to get the low down on Tooth Spa and some top tips to get our own pearly whites glowing - hey a gorgeous smile can get you anywhere right?

SB: As a dental hygienist what advice can you give us all to keep our own teeth healthy?

H: I tell all my patients that they absolutely MUST brush & floss their teeth and gums twice daily - they've heard it all before but it's surprising how many people skip flossing. Regular check-ups with your dentist and getting your teeth professionally cleaned will also keep your teeth looking their best.  
 
SB: At Sample Bar HQ we are already in love with your super gentle and yummy Tooth Spa, tell us what makes it so special?

The fact that it is ALL NATURAL is what makes Tooth Spa unique. I sourced and used only natural, effective and safe ingredients and steered clear of any manufactured chemical components.

SB: Can you give us your 3 top tips to get the most out of Tooth Spa? 
 
1. I always tell my patients to use Tooth Spa on a dry tooth brush and not to use water at any stage when brushing their teeth. This is because Tooth Spa is made of water soluble, natural ingredients.

2. After brushing - do not rinse. It is better for your teeth if you leave the toothpaste to sit and work its magic.

3. Rinse your toothbrush well after brushing. Again, this may seem like an obvious step to take, but it's frightening just how many germs can live on an un-rinsed toothbrush.

Sample Bar got the lowdown from Lash Card founder - Alice K.  Find out all about how the 'Lash Card' came to fruition...

After spending years of working in the fashion industry, and fixing everyone else's fashion problems, I noticed that it left me very little time to focus on my own fashion and beauty routine. I had such little time to get ready in the mornings, that I became creative with ways that gave me max results in as little time possible.

Living the on-the-go, Fashionista lifestyle in New York City had its perks, but the long hours meant that I couldn't go home to freshen up before going out. This made it tough to re-apply my makeup at the office (let's just say the fluorescent lighting in the company bathroom was NOT my BFF when I tried to re-apply mascara after a 12 hour work day during Fashion Week). 

That's when I thought of the Lash Card, which is based on a make-up artist's DIY "business card" trick preventing mascara smudging and clumping (we think this makeup artist would have also loved our Hill Cook Solution buds ;-) for those 'on the go' touch-up's) however, using a business card was inconvenient, and who wants to put a dirty business card on their eye? So I experimented with different shapes and paper until I found the perfect one. 

When my friends and colleagues saw me use the Lash Card, they asked me to make it for them also. From that moment on, I knew I wanted to create beauty products, like the Lash Card, that were convenient for women to use everywhere.

 Check out this helpful ‘Lash Card - How To’ You Tube video…

FESS UP... Do You Wear Makeup to the Gym?

Raise your hand if you've ever applied any makeup before hitting the gym!? Embarrassingly, we'll have to raise ours too! We're guilty of dabbing on a little lip balm and a slick of waterproof mascara before our work out! Yes, it's totally girly we know! But we are not alone - a recent UK poll found that 7 out of 10 women wear makeup when they work out too!

For some, looking your best gives you more motivation and confidence throughout your workout. Others see the gym as a great place to scope potential BF's - after all, you never know what cute, single guy might be waiting in line to use the treadmill after you!

Whatever motivates you, stick to the basics. If you are going to wear make-up to the gym here's our top tips to keep your skin fresh and free of break outs...

1. Say no to heavy make-up and instead mix a dab of your favourite foundation with a tiny amount of moisturiser.

2. Swap your lipstick with lip balm or a slick of gloss!

3. Keep hydrated... especially since your body is losing a lot of water as you sweat.

4. Stick to waterproof mascara... nobody wants racoon eyes - and after all, you should be doing the running, not your make-up!

5. Slick your hair back into a cute pony!

6.Keep a face spritzer handy in your gym bag! 

Check out our top picks for 'gym friendly' beauty buys:

1. SteamCream 2. Savoir Faire Lip Gloss 3. So Susan Fairy Lash Mascara 4. Twistband Hair Ties and Hair Tie Sets 5. Air Repair Complexion Quenching Facial Mist.

Travel, travel, travel - that's all we've been thinking about since we sent our 'ready-set-jet' Glam Packs out last month!  There's only one tiny downside to travel - limited luggage space often means that we have to cut back our beauty routine to only the bare essentials - and boy does our skin suffer! That was until we discovered Air Repair's 'Grab+Go' Travel Kit! This beyond-amazing kit contains everything your skin could dream of to eliminate the stress associated with traveling - better yet it comes in a handy 'travel-friendly' pouch so it's all ready to go!

Whether you're jetting off on a camping adventure, hitting the slopes or lapping up the luxurious tropical islands - this kit has got your complexion covered!

sources: indulgy.com, glamcheck.com, advertiser.ie

Camping Adventure:

Camping can be super fun, but squashing all your supplies into a tent plus your usual beauty tote can be a bit of a drag! With our new favourite travel kit you can take a bit of luxury on your next camping trip! Air Repair's soothing facial cleansing milk is particularly perfect for rejuvenating the skin after a day outside in the elements (sun, wind, rain)! This kit is super compact too so no one need discover how you're looking so fresh and flawless while you’re "roughing-it".

Tropical Escape:

A lavish holiday in the sun is the stuff dreams are made of - but for most of us it can be a bit drying on the skin! The Air Repair Travel Kit is your ideal travel companion when holidaying in the heat because all of the products are intensely hydrating and designed especially for travelling skin! In hot, sticky weather, Air Repair's Complexion Quenching Facial Mist will become your new best friend – just pop a bottle in your beach bag and spritz over your face a neck for a quick boost between the beach and poolside bar!

Ski-Holiday:

As much as we love to frolic in the snow, we're all too familiar with the effect it can have on our complexions wind-exposure, sunburn and chapped lips are just a handful of the downfalls of a ski holiday! Never again with this super-hydrating and protective travel kit! Air Repair's 'All-Purpose, Rescue Balm' is goodness in a tube and will soothe chapped lips, dry hands and sunburnt skin while you're hitting the slopes! Better yet, it’s the perfect size to carry in your ski jacket pocket while you're on-the-go! 

This Travel Kit is absolutely divine and because all of the treats are under 100mls, if you’re flying overseas you can pop it into your carry-on without the worry of having it confiscated by NZ customs! 

Enjoy your travels Glam Girls XOXO

We know from experience that aeroplane travel can be hugely stressful - hey, sitting in one chair for hours on end is enough to get any girl down, no matter how many girly movies you watch! Because we want you all sitting pretty while flying high, we caught up with Miranda Kerr's Yoga teacher, Charlotte Dodson again to get some top travel advice! As always the lovely Charlotte was more than happy to give us a hand and has put together a few tips and tricks to help us lucky Glam Girls land stress-free and ready to take on a new country!

source: cnn.com, ethiad.com

Charlotte's first yoga pose: 'The Seated Spinal Twist'

(Ardha Matsyendrasana - variation) is perfect for travelling beauties because it can be practised right from your plane seat and helps to alleviate stresses and strains by getting stuck into those extra tight areas and knots!

Here's how:

Start at the edge of your seat. Gently draw your right knee over your left knee. Bring your left hand onto your right knee and place your left hand onto the arm rest. Keep your spine elongated and chin tucked into your throat. As you inhale, keep your spine long, and turn further towards your right side on your exhale. Breathe deeply for 5 breaths before repeating to the other side.

For Charlotte’s second pose: 'Standing forward bend' (Uttanasana):

You're going to need to wait until the seatbelt signs have been switched off (we wouldn't want you getting in trouble), so you can stand in the aisle!

Here's how:

Stand with your feet hip distant apart, (from your hips) tilt forward with knees bent to protect your lower back. Hang off your hips, letting your neck, face and eyes relax. Just let your arms hang down, placing one hand onto each elbow. Press your feet firmly into the floor to stabilise and keep you grounded. Breathe deeply for about 10 breaths. To come up to standing, roll up slowly with knees soft.

Now you've got your yoga poses perfected here are Charlotte's 5 bonus tips for staying healthy and limber while travelling:

1. BREATHE! - The most effective way to oxygenate your blood, boost your metabolism, and prepare yourself for the journey ahead, is to breathe deeply (1-2-3-4-5 counts, on both inhale and exhale). This works wonders especially if you're feeling nervous or anxious before or on a flight.

2. Stretch those pins and take a stroll around the cabin.

3. Stay hydrated - my personal favourite way of staying hydrated is by drinking coconut water.

4. Get plenty of shut-eye - it's called beauty sleep for a reason!

5. Choose wisely - when it comes to meal options, always opt for fresh (organic where available) light meals, salads and raw/steamed veggies - it'll keep your figure shaped-up and you'll feel energised throughout your travels.

"By practising these forms of yoga on a regular basis - when both travelling and in your everyday environment - your body will stay truly healthy as you embrace and live life, 'from NZ to the world'. Namaste (bow)" - Charlotte.

Super-trio;  Shizuka Tagami, Alison Hawksley and Victoria Tydeman are the founders of the 'IT', multi-award-winning beauty product, STEAMCREAM. Alison and Victoria who are based in the UK are both mothers and long-time friends. They hooked up with Shizuka who is based in Japan which is where the story all started. Between them have worked in commercial property, cosmetics, fashion, music PR, marketing and eductaion! Their simply divine, all-vegan cream has taken the beauty world by storm and we were lucky enough to catch up with these amazing ladies to find out more!

Shizuka, Victoria & Alison

SB: What inspired you to create STEAMCREAM?

 SC: We had a simple idea - to create one high quality natural moisturiser that could be used by everyone, every day, everywhere. Simple! We wanted it to really work - to be super nourishing, hydrating, full of nutrients, effective; as well as being ethically sourced and affordable.

In a nutshell, we wanted to save time, money, the planet and skin.

SB: It's already been hailed as a miracle cream, what's so unusual about it?

SC: STEAMCREAM uses a shot of hot STEAM to combine the water and oil based ingredients. STEAM is pure water, heated under pressure past 100°C and we harness its power to fuse our beautiful natural ingredients together instantly, to make a lightly bound emulsion.  

By using STEAM to combine the natural ingredients, they remain pure and effective. The lightness of the cream also ensures the ingredients can sink in quickly and be absorbed deep down to keep your skin soft, smooth and flexible for longer.

There's really nothing more rewarding than to hear from a customer who suffers from a skin condition such as eczema that STEAMCREAM has really worked to calm and improve their skin. They (and the press!) are the ones who call it a "miracle moisturiser".

SB: We are all for creams that are multi-taskers, who is STEAMCREAM ideal for?

SC: Everybody! Honestly, it can be used by anyone over the age of 1 right up to 100+! It can be used on all skin types and all over the body too (but always do a patch-test first if you are particularly sensitive). 

SB: We love the super cute STEAMCREAM tins, how did you come up with the idea of packing your cream in a tin?

SC: We all agreed with the designer William Morris who said, "Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful", so our co-founder Shizuka, came up with the idea of limited edition, re-usable, aluminium tins to package our cream. Simple but beautiful and useful! So much more fun that just plain packaging and as individual as you too!

SB: What's one thing you hated but now love?

AH: Quiet nights in...

VT:  Early mornings (i.e. after 8 am!)

ST: Work.

SB: In my wardrobe you'll always find...

AH: Jeans.

VT: Sadly, ditto!

ST: Proudly, ditto!

SB: I am secretly obsessed with...

AH: At the moment, Les Miserables...!

VT: ABBA! Clearly we love a song!!

ST: Astrology and numerology.

SB: You love Sample Bar because...

SC: It's like a great taster menu for the cosmetic world. (And the owner is really savvy too!).

Bonus Tip from ST, AH & VT: 

Earlier this month we shared a pic of how we've been using our Glam Pack boxes to organise our once messy (but now oh so beautiful) bathroom drawers! We also asked you all to show us how you've been using your own boxes and we were so excited with the response! Below are a few snaps of our favourite 'Up-Cycled Glam Packs'! Be sure to sound off in the comments below if you have any other amazing ideas - we'd love to hear them!

We can't stop dreaming of exotic trips away at the moment! Our lucky Ops Executive has just jetted off for an island getaway in Fiji and the rest of us at Sample Bar HQ couldn't be more jealous! All week she'll be lounging on white sandy beaches, sipping cocktails and eating yummy fruits and delish seafood! The only downside - heat, dehydration, uncontrollably frizzy hair and oh yeah... getting sand in everything! Before she headed off, we took a peek at her packing list and here's what she packed...

Clothes:  For a beach-basics look she's squeezed in a few key pieces: Jandels, bikinis, bright coloured tops, denim cut-offs, statement turquoise sandals, a sunhat and a kaftan! 

Beauty bag: (is it just us or has she packed as much in here as in her clothes bag?!):

Le Tan Sun Lotion: Well, duh. Sun protection is our numero uno concern and this one smells DIVINE!

SteamCream: SteamCream is our fav solution for dry, peeling Fiji skin!

Hil Cook Solution Buds: Hot humid weather is a total kill-joy for make-up! To banish panda eyes, our clever, travelling beauty has popped a pack of these handy cotton buds into her luggage.

Marvis Toothpaste: Toothpaste is a must-have item when traveling (for obvious reasons), and a luxury holiday calls for a totally glam toothpaste!

Savoir Faire Lip Gloss in Bon Bon: A girls got to have lip gloss right? Savoir Faire Lip Gloss in Bon Bon is the most amazing hot pink colour and smells so so scrummy!

Twistband Hair Ties and Headbands:  If you haven't noticed already, everyone here is totally ga ga over these must-have multi taskers! Super cute to tie up a pony tail or stacked around our wrists as bracelets!

Scarlett & Greene Cleanser: No one wants to worry about pimples on holiday (or EVER!). Scarlett & Greene’s 'Bare All' cleanser is a great travel buddy!  

P.S. If you haven't noticed, we've added a ton of gorgeous new products to the Glam Store this month! Check them here.

Natural, 'barely there' makeup was a HUGE trend at the 2013 Golden Globes, and being the trail blazer that she is, Kate Hudson was (as always) right on trend! Steal Kate's natural beauty with a 'less is more' approach to your make up routine!

Hair Tips

Get Kate's luscious locks with a well-executed blow wave! Our top 4 blow wave tips are:

1. Start with wet, clean hair and blow wave your fringe section first - this is often the trickiest section to style and should be dealt to before it dries and dreaded cowlicks begin to form.

2. Divide the rest of your hair into three sections using clips or hair pins – one on each side of your head and the other at the back. Blow wave the back first, then each side.

3. To create Kate’s natural, 'tousled' look, once your hair is almost finished, we recommend flipping your hair upside down and giving it a last blow wave from underneath!

4. Final blow wave tip: keep a spray bottle of water handy! If parts of your hair become dryer quicker than others, give these areas a few spritzes of water. Ensuring hair is evenly damp all over will prevent natural kinks forming before you get to it with the hair dryer.

Make-up Tips

Kate teamed her soft, straight hair with natural, barely there makeup. We've put together 5 tips to get you Glam Girls looking as naturally beautiful as Miss Kate.

1. Conceal - the under eye area by putting a small amount of product on your fourth (CLEAN) fingertip and dotting it on, moving from the outside corner of the eye inward, and back out again. We adore the Savoir Faire concealer because it comes with two shades of extra creamy concealer so you can build up the colour perfect for your own unique skin tone!

2. Get a healthy glow - with a dusting of the Brazilian Puff Bronzer; apply bronzer in the shape of a '3' on the right of your face and a reverse '3' on the left. This highlights your jaw, hairline and check bones - where the sun would naturally kiss your face.

3. Highlight - Fake, Kate's beautiful bone structure with a creamy highlighter. Apply this to the brow bones, and under the eyes to really brighten and define your face. We are big fans of So Susan's 'Wide Awake' eye palette because it brightens our complexions and defines our brows in one handy compact!

4. Lashes - ALWAYS curl your eyelashes before applying mascara, we use our ModelCo Lashwands because they create perfectly curled lashes that last all day! Next add two even coats of Fairy Lashes Mascara to the bottom and top lashes.

5. Gloss up - To keep 'au naturel', finish with a slick of nude lip gloss - we are obsessed with Savoir Faire's lip gloss in Lolita - it goes on like a dream and smells like peaches and cream!!!

There you have it Glam Girls - Golden Globes perfection! We are now eagerly anticipating the next big awards night - The Oscars! We'll (once again) be glued to the red carpet coverage and will be sure to report back on our top picks of the night!

This year is off to a metallic start and hair accessories are where it’s all at this summer! Take a peek at 3 of our favourite looks for summer 2013 and tips on how you can create them!

Hair Rings

How gorgeous is this look! Even though it looks super complicated, each ring is a tiny hoop that you can clip straight on to your hair! All you have to do is slide the opening of the clip onto a bunch of hair and you'll be ready to shine!

source: lookbook.nu

Hair Cuffs

These super cute cuffs come straight off the runway and look fantastic on low, loose pony tails. Simply, keep your hair textured and loose to contrast with the sleek metal cuff. Hair Cuffs come in a variety of styles but our favourites are the ones attached to hair ties! They are a piece of cake to put in - just twist around your pony as you would a regular hair tie!

source: hairromance.com

Metal Hair Barrettes

Add some WOW factor to your sleek chignon with an oversized gold hair barrette much like those spotted in Yves Saint Laurent’s 2012 Spring collection. These gorgeous wee hair accessories come with clasps (similar to a brooch) and are easy as pie to put in. Simply pull your hair back into a low bun and clip the barrette over it for an instant glam look. 

 ellecanada.com

Got a party coming up? No time for a manicure? Fret not; you can create this cute, party-ready look using just a few office products and our fav nail polish brand - Ulta3!

• Ulta3 Nail Colours in 'Tahiti', 'Silver Glitter' and 'Earl Grey'
• Sticky Tape
• Paperclip
• Scrap Piece of Paper (we have used an old business card)

Once you have all of your materials ready, paint nine of your fingers in the Earl Grey polish and one in Tahiti (this will be your feature nail)!

Using the Tahiti and Earl Grey nail polish brushes, create two spots of colour on the spare piece of paper. Next, straighten the paper clip and dip one end into the nail colour spot and use this to lightly tap dots onto each nail! Place Tahiti dots on to the Earl Grey painted nails and (using the other end of the paper clip) place Earl Grey Dots on to the Tahiti painted nail! Sooo easy! 

The Dotty Look can be applied to both hands or for something a little different, you could create what we call a 'Feature Stripe' on one Earl Grey nail. To do this, place a strip of sticky tape on an angle over the Earl Grey painted nail and press down to ensure it is firmly in place. Next coat the tip of your nail in Tahiti and leave to dry before applying a final coat of Silver Glitter nail polish! Once both coats have COMPLETELY dried (we recommend leaving for 15-20 minutes just to be safe) remove the tape and voila... amazing, party-ready nails!

Wohoo! It is definitely heating up out there! Fret not Glam Girls; we have put together a beauty routine using the December treats sure to keep you looking cool this summer!  

1. For a quick and easy cool down, splash your face with cold water and wash away grime and make up with one of Scarlett & Greene's wonderful & all natural cleansers! Once clean, pat the skin dry and apply a ten cent piece of their light and creamy 'under cover' moisturiser to the face and neck.

2. To avoid the painful (and dangerous) heat of ghastly sunburn, fake it instead with the amazing Instant Le Tan in Le Can! Make sure to shake the can well before applying a light mist to clean, exfoliated skin in a fluid sweeping motion! Don't forget to wash your hands afterwards!

3. Bright, perfectly painted nails are our favourite, 'go-to' accessory this summer! Apply Ulta3 to well filed nails in two even coats, allowing each coat to dry in between applications. Finish with a top coat if desired!!

4. The So Susan makeup range is ideal for creating a sassy, beach-party look! To get a radiant complexion we love using the So Susan 'Wide Awake' Eye Palette'! This comes complete with, illuminating cream, highlighting cream, eyebrow tinted powder and the tools needed to create a fresh dewy look! For a sun kissed glow, sweep So Susan's Brazilian Sun Puff Bronzer over your check bones, forehead, nose and jawline. Finish off with a slick of super scrummy Lip Cushion and a swish of Fairy Lashes Mascara!

5. Now that you are looking gorgeous, it's time to pick an outfit to match! We are absolutely in love with the gorgeous kaftans in stores this summer - just throw one on over a bikini, add some sparkly sandals and statement jewellery and you're good to go! Be sure to have a pack of ShowStoppers handy to keep your outfits sitting pretty! These are a piece of cake to apply, just peel away the protective layer; place the tape on your clothing or bare skin, and press over the fabric you want held in place!

Enjoy the lovely weather Glam Girls and be sure to share with us the looks you’ve created using the December Glam Pack treats!

XOXO

Happy 2013 Glam Girls!  We can hardly believe it's a new year already and a new year wouldn't be much fun without a few resolutions right!? We've jotted down our top 5 resolutions to keep us looking gorgeous from the inside out in 2013!

1. Spend more time with the people we love!

2. Eat breakfast every single morning... even if it's just a banana and a bowl of cereal.

3. Wear sun block everyday… without fail (even in winter)!

4. Get more organised!

5. Discover new things!

Have you made your resolutions yet? Do they look anything like ours? We'd love to hear what your New Year’s resolutions are and how you are going at sticking to them!

P.S We love surprising you all and we've already been super hard at work dreaming up ways we can make your 2013 beauty year the best one yet! So get ready to discover an amazing selection of samples that are going to give your beauty routine a new year's makeover. Don't worry - we won't be spilling the beans until they arrive in your hands! So stay tuned...

XOXO

Sample Bar

Santa's made his list and he's probably checked it twice...but we think being on the Sample Bar list is best of all!

Join the waitlist for the AMAZING January Glam Pack NOW - and you will go in the draw to win one of our party edition, December Glam Packs too!! Two lucky new members will be contacted via email!!

So what are you waiting for? Simply hit join now (above) and select a membership type! It really is that easy!!!

Shannon Mattingly is the kind of lady we'd all want as our best friend, she's fun, hardworking and passionate about her business - 'ShowStoppers! Shannon's laughter is super contagious and after only a short catch up, we are already obsessed! ShowsStopper's has created the most durable line of fashion tapes, here to save us from even the most embarassing wardrobe malfunctions. With plenty more exciting things in the pipeline, we sat down with Shannon to get the inside scoop!

What inspired you to develop ShowStoppers?

It all started back when I was working in finance and had to wear a button-up shirt every day! Unfortunately, the DD's I inherited from my Grandma Bea created a bit of a "peek-a-boo" situation which nothing seemed to fix. It was only when I landed a job at a top PR firm, working red carpet events that I realised not even celebrity stylists had found the perfect solution and so the idea was formed.

We've seen that there are many uses for your 'fix-all' fashion tapes - concealing pesky bra straps, closing a gaping shirt and creating the perfect hem! What's the most quirky use you've heard of?

Oh I hear sooo many! A woman actually called me the other day and said she had recently used ShowStoppers stuck to broom handles to get balloons off her ceiling after a birthday party! That one was her boyfriend's idea!

Wow - it sounds like they can fix almost anything! How would you describe ShowStoppers up in three words?

Comfortable, Classy and Confident!

We love your 'go-getter' spirit, what advice would you give to a young up-and-comer?

There is no such thing as failing, only giving up! I honestly believe it is all about perseverance and endurance. If you stick with it, things will eventually work out for you!

We have to ask... what’s in your beauty bag?

I am very minimal with my beauty routine, but am always sure to carry: ShowStoppers, eyeliner, mascara, lip gloss, a nail file, and mini lotion! That's it really!  

-Shannon's beauty bag

From what we've heard, you can do it all! Tell us about a hidden talent...

I'm actually a professional dancer! I trained in jazz, point, tap lyrical, and was a cheerleader - my dance background makes me very competitive!

You love Sample Bar because...

Well for me personally, I love that lots of people can try my products! ShowStoppers really is such a great product that once people try it, they love it instantly! As a customer, I think getting a Glam Pack and trying new things would be amazing!

At Sample Bar we are in total awe of Miss Lea Michele; perfect skin, tanned limbs, and a radiant smile - this girl definitely lucked out in the genetics department!

Although we weren't all so genetically gifted, we have hand-picked the products in the November Glam Pack to give our gorgeous members Lea's camera-ready glow! Below we have listed a few extra tips and tricks using these products and a few others (available in the Glam Store) to get you all as "Lea-like" as possible!

First Stop: Runway-ready Skin!

1) To begin your "Lea-like" makeover, jump in the shower and gently exfoliate your entire body, paying extra attention to particularly rough areas such as knees, elbows, ankles and feet.

2) While you're still showering, slather Ro's Argan Body Conditioner over your entire body! We absolutely adore this little tub of goodness because it leaves our skin with a dewy glow and smells like freshly made rose jam! Yummo!

Second Stop: Sun Kissed Stunner.

Unfortunately, we weren’t all blessed with Lea’s beautiful olive skin, but on the upside, the rest of us can still fake it with the amazing self-tanners available today! Our personal favourite is Trilogy's Instant Tanning Gel.

3) Apply the gel limb by limb starting with the legs; sweeping a small amount of tanner over the ankles, feet and toes.

4) Next apply tanner to the rest of the body in circular motions, blending especially well over dry areas.

5) Be sure to wash your palms thoroughly when you are done! Blotchy hands are a dead giveaway your otherwise perfect tan is not ‘au naturel’ Apply daily until desired shade has developed.

Third Stop: Flashy Smile.

6)The Marvis toothpaste range is your ideal weapon for getting Lea's bright and healthy smile.Apply a small amount of paste to your toothbrush and gently brush away! We are crazy over these toothpastes because they come in so many tasty flavours and look extra cute in our toothbrush holder!

Once your teeth are "Lea-like", get the lips to match with Savoir Faire's absolutely divine range of lipsticks and lip glosses!

7)To achieve the perfect finish when applying lipstick, relax your mouth so it opens slightly and use a thin, firm brush to apply the product. 

8) Start in the centre of your lips and work outwards, paying extra care not to smudge lippy outside of your natural lip line!

9) If you prefer a matte look, blot away excess product using a tissue. For a high-shine finish, apply a layer of Savoir Faire lipgloss in a complementary shade over top of lipstick.

Fourth Stop:  Barely-there Brilliance.

We have already created a post with tips on creating the perfect complexion (read this here), but since then we have discovered Savoir Faire's amazing concealer! We love this compact because it helps us to conceal even the worst sins against our skin!

10) Using the cream concealer blend the two shades on your hand to create the perfect tone for your complexion.

11) Using a concealer brush, apply the concealer underneath your eyes and over any impurities.

12) To set the concealer in place, dust a thin film of powder over concealed areas.

With Lea Michele's look, less is definitely more! We continue to scour the globe for beauty products that will empahsise our natural beauty - not cover it up!! Enjoy this month's products lovelies and be sure to share with us how you are using them all!

In case you haven't noticed, we are way too excited for summer's arrival! Even though it is still too chilly to leave our cardigans at home, we have put together our very first 'summer style edit' to get you inspired! These include our must-have pieces & looks we need in our wardrobes - like now!

source: thisisnotmylifeforever.tumblr.com, blog.netrobe.com, capecodcollegiate.tumblr.com, media-cache.com, tierdropp.tumblr.com, target.com

With the festive season fast approaching our social calendars are filling up pretty quickly! The silly season brings with it a need for new dresses, sky-high pumps and the perfect evening make-up! There really is so much to consider and often in the short space of time between work/school and evening parties! To make life a little easier for you all, we've put together our favourite party-ready hairstyles for hair of every length!

When styling your locks, the best place to start is with soft, healthy hair! Why not try Evo's 'The Great Hydrator' hair mask. This product will boost your natural shine, making your hair softer and more manageable!

Celebrity yoga guru, Charlotte Dodson is one of the most sought-after yoga experts in Australia. She's been featured in CNN International, Hapers Bazar, Madison, Good Health Australia and has appeared on Australia's Next Top Model, Being Lara Bingle and Australia's Morning Show.

After teaching yoga exclusively to celebrities such as Miranda Kerr, Orlando Bloom, Lara Bingle and Kit Willow for several years, she's opened up her exclusive private practice to tackle a very exciting project, Web Yoga TV (charlottedodson.tv) an interactive, in-depth learning experience complete with live chats and tips.

Meet Charlotte, our go-to yoga guru:

What brought you into the world of yoga?

CD: Yoga actually found me - it was a blessing in disguise! It became a huge part of my healing protocols after I broke my right arm in a surfing accident. It was my awakening to the life-altering benefits of this practice - after a decade of studying, participating and teaching across four continents, yoga is now my full-time focus. I realised there was much more I could offer to others in life, more ways I could serve the greater good. Yoga is my pure passion and it will stay with me forever.

Miranda looks absolutely amazing after giving birth to Flynn.  How did you help Miranda bounce back into such incredible shape?

CD: Miranda is naturally beautiful and being truly healthy in all aspects of her life, including both her yoga practice and food choices, it's not surprising that she's bounced back into beach-body shape so quickly - motherhood has brought an even-greater glow to her loveliness! Miranda follows a dynamic yoga regime I've personally designed for her, incorporating all her favourite poses. This would certainly aid her in maintaining the "elasticity" of her muscles and tendons.

Can you work your miracle on real women too?

CD: I'd encourage any participant wanting to look and feel their best to practice on a daily basis, whether it be for 20 minutes or an hour. This could range from a dynamic movement of several poses to "simply" sitting in meditation. Like anything in life, the more you practice something, the more you'll reap its benefits! Yoga changes your body shape and your life for the better!

What top 3 tips would you give to Sample Bar fans looking to try out yoga for the first time?

CD: Any yoga practice is a great place to start – you'll always take something home from the experience. With the teacher and yoga style, it's a personal choice – so if you haven't yet found a yoga you resonate with, please keep trying! Yoga is for every shape, size and background, and once you find your ultimate yoga space, you'll be forever grateful.

Charlotte really is the real deal, which is why all our October Glam Pack-members have received one month's free subscription to this amazing program so you too can get that model like bod! For those of you who missed out, we are giving away 5 subscriptions, valid till the end of November. Just comment on this post what you love about Yoga and you're in to win!

Place your bets lovelies, Melbourne Cup Day is here! While a bet or two can be a bit of fun, for a lot of us, Cup Day is ALL about the fashion! So whether you're off to the Melbourne Cup, an honorary party or an upcoming racing event in your local area - it is crucial to put your most fashionable foot forward! Lucky for you, we've done the legwork and put together a few of our favourite looks to get you started.    

Black and white will never be out of Fashion and we are in love with these “monochrome” inspired outfits. To finish off a simple black or white dress, add a statement ring, paint your lips a dark red and dip your tips in a matching hue. A silver fascinator adorned with gems or glitter is also a great addition to an entirely black and white outfit.

Source: Stylesight.com,Stylebistro.com, 4.bp.blogspot.com,vogue.com

If you prefer a pop of colour, why not channel the lovely spring weather and don floral fabrics, delicate lace and pretty pinks. Think colourful dresses, bright lipstick and fascinators covered in beautiful blossoms.

Source: Atlantic-Pacific.co.uk,news.com.au, bellasugar.com.au,weheartit.com,mypeartreehouse.blogspot.com

We recommend picking your hat or fascinator first and working your outfit and other accessories around this - hey when else do you get the chance to wear a statement headpiece? No matter what look you choose, dress to impress and celebrate the festivities with a glass of champagne! Be sure to share with us your favourite outfits from the 2012 races!

Ever wondered what the eternally youthful Demi Moore knows that we don't? Despite being in her late forties, living under the scrutiny of the public eye and suffering through a highly publicised divorce, this brunette beauty looks like she could easily be in her early thirties! Lucky for us, Demi might have let the cat out of the bag when she tweeted a picture of herself relaxing at home in a cloth face mask!

Cloth Facial Masks are saturated with intensely moisturising 'super ingredients' that work wonders for our skin! At Sample Bar, we love them just as much as Demi, so much so that we hopped across the pond to bring back an amazing gem for you all to try!

Facial Fresh is one of the freshest skincare brands to hit the market! Say "ta-ta" to jars and tubes that clutter up our beauty cabinet and hello to this new generation treatment mask. The brain child of a brother and sister team, Facial Fresh masks offer a hygienic, quick and easy pick-me-up for your skin. These single use masks are travel friendly and can be applied anywhere, giving your skin a decidedly fresh look in just 15 minutes. Packed with the most advanced beauty ingredients and botanicals, Facial Fresh offers 6 different treatment masks that are a great all-round boost for normal, sensitive, dry and mature skin types. These Masks are easily the most affordable facials we've found too!

The full range of Facial Fresh Masks are available from our Glam Store, from $15.95!  Remember, if you love it then rave about it!

Let us know your favourite Facial Fresh mask... and if you dare... let's see you pull a Demi!

Let's face it - we can't help feeling a teeny bit jealous when our favourite celebrities flaunt 'barely there' makeup and still look absolutely aaamaazzzing! From Kiera Knightley's porcelain perfection to Kim Kardashian's dewy glow - we are totally in awe of their flawless complexions. 

 Source: Hellocotton.com,Reveal.co.uk

As much as we'd love to get picture-perfect skin at the press of a button, unlike celebs we don't all have a team of beauty professionals at our every beck and call. For most of us, beautiful skin takes work, so here's our top 5 beauty tips to get you that lust after complexion! 

 1. Have a ME Day! Stress is a real buzz kill for beauty! High stress levels tend to speed up the process of aging and while it can prove quite tricky, we all need to reduce the stress in our lives. Next time you have a day off, head for a spa or create your own zen like spa experience at home. Slip into a comfy robe, light a sweet smelling candle and slather a heavenly mask over your face. We recomend a Facial Fresh Mask - they really are to die for and your skin will thank us for it!

 2. HEALTHY inside - BEAUTY outside... It's true - if your insides aren't happy, your skin won't be either! Show your body some love and snack wisely, we love munching on almonds and adding a spread of advocado to our morning slice of toast. These foods are rich in omega 3 which will do wonders for your skin!    

 3. I WILL Exfoliate! If there's one skincare mantra we want everyone to memorize, it's this: exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate. A weekly scrub keeps your skin looking fresh, but it's important to pick an exfoliater that is kind to your skin like Dermalogica's Daily Microfoliant! This product combines finely ground rice bran and powerful natural enzymes to lightly buff and brighten your skin. Beauty editors absolutely rave about this bestselling and award-winning formula and after giving it a try we can totally see why!

4. QUENCH your skin! Anytime we complained about our skin  growing up, our mum's were always all too quick to reply with, "Are you drinking enough water?". Unfourtunately (like always), our Mothers were right  -not only does water enhance our skin, hair and nails but it flushes out nasty toxins, giving us a healthy glow from the inside-out. So grab a glass and sip your way to gorgeous skin!

Bonus Tip: Bored of water? Give coconut water a go-  rich in electrolytes this tropical treat promotes optimum hydration.

5. Out with the grime! Everyone has the occasional all-nighter, but trust us when we say that no matter how late you get home, going to sleep with your makeup on is a big no-no.  It will clog your pores and and whilst we all love surprises, nobody likes to wake up with a pesky zit in the morning! Try our latest love, 'The Green Balm' by Moa. This double duty wonder acts not only as a luxurious cleanser but it also helps to soften, nourish and protect our skin too!  Plus, it makes your face feel hydrated and supple, not tight and dry. We call that a win-win!

Bonus Tip: Remember lovelies, a little bit of Moa seriously goes a long way! 

At Sample Bar we adore all things ModelCo, so when offered the chance to interview CEO and Creator Shelley Barrett we were absolutely giddy. Our lucky October subscribers now have in their hot little hands a ModelCo Turbo Lashwand, a heated eyelash curler that really is an award winning gem. It is these easy-to-use and innovative products that have earned Shelley Barrett and ModelCo their place as industry leaders in the beauty world. Here's a little insight into what makes this beauty mogul tic...

You previously ran a model agency, what made you switch from models to beauty?

SB:  After working with models, makeup artists and stylists, I kept hearing them ask after products they wanted but hadn't yet been created. I craved a new challenge and in 2002, I identified a niche in the market for innovative, quick fix and multi-purpose beauty solutions. ModelCo's Lash Wand Heated Eyelash Curler was launched in 2002 with resounding worldwide results.  In just a few months, stock had sold out world wide, it was featured in beauty editorial across globe in international publications such as VOGUE, Harper's BAZAAR, Marie Claire and InStyle and it had a cult following amongst the fashion and beauty savvy and celebrities alike.   

ModelCo has paved the way for some amazing innovations - what inspires you?

SB: I like to provide women with true innovation! I love to think about what would make a woman's beauty regime so much easier, and then go about creating exciting products that truly deliver what they promise.  

Which ModelCo product are you most proud of?

SB: Tan in a Can, Fibre Lash, Lip Lights and most recently the new Super Tan Collection - all of these have groundbreaking technology and have become famous all over the world.

The most valuable piece of advice you have ever received is...

SB: No is never an option. If you have a vision then be sure to stay focused on the end goal. Be sure to persevere, as your tenacity will pay off.

What's something you hated but now love?

SB: Beetroot! I have only just acquired a taste in my late 30's.

I am secretly addicted to...

SB: Coconut Water, it keeps me refreshed throughout the day and it's good for me too!

You love Sample Bar's beauty sampling service because.... 

SB: It gives us the opportunity to get our product into the hands of new customers. We believe in the 'test then invest' strategy where people can try ModelCo products, fall in love and then become loyal customers.

BOO! Happy Halloween lovelies! We are loving the crazy-chic Halloween looks celebrities like Heidi Klum and Hilary Duff have been spotted in this year. Create your own spooky makeup with a touch of face paint, a thin brush, glitter and of course a steady hand. Check out our top 3 looks for Halloween 2012.

Mexican Senorita

Why not channel Hilary Duff this Halloween season and get inspired by the Mexican festival 'The Day of the Dead'. Don skeleton face paint with glitter accents and a huge floral head piece for a beautiful yet spooky Halloween look.

Source: Daily Mail, Notsolonelylondoners

Black-Swan Chic

Create a look as striking as Natalie Portman in Black Swan this Halloween. To replicate this style we suggest creating a pale base with lashings of white powder, framing your peepers with black face paint and colouring your lips with a deep red hue. If you're brave enough, team this look with a simple black leotard, white tights and a tiara.

Source: Thefilmtalk.com

Baby Doll Beauty  

If scary isn't your thing, why not trial a picture-perfect doll inspired look. Heart painted lips are oh so 'Alice and Wonderland' and are easy to create using a fine brush and your favourite red lippy.

Source:  Blingpp.com

Enjoy and be sure to inspire us with your own Halloween makeup ideas in the comments below! XOXO

We're devoted fans of all things polish at Sample Bar HQ and we've teamed up with super talented freelance beauty writer, Helene Ravlich - the brains behind the popular beauty blog ‘Pretty Beautiful’ to get the low down on her top 3 New York Fashion Week manis- plus how we can rock them.

Helene is a self-confessed beauty fanatic who has been writing about all things pretty and beautiful for over ten years. Mother to a three year old, she has written for magazines and newspapers in New Zealand and across the globe!

With recent Emmy coverage featuring a "mani-cam" and nail art appearing on the paws of the fashion world's most influential figures, you could say that the humble nail polish is now having its 'moment'. It was starring all over the catwalk at the recent NYFW, where designers showed us their SS13 collections alongside some serious statement nails.

At Rebecca Minkoff, the nail look was called the "Double Reverse French" and was to die for. It involved two even coats of taupe, followed by a stripe of rich garnet and one of deep blue. The end result was totally ladylike, with a shimmery, ultra feminine finish at the tips. 


 Source: ourvanity.com

Designer Philip Lim used a nail team to help bring his "neo-noir" girl to life, and they created a manicure that looked a lot like the panel shading seen in graphic novels. To get the look, they painted nails with one coat of a liquorice black, then took sleek granite grey and drew a thin strip around the outer edge of the nail, and then highlighted with snowy white.  It was a little avant-garde and a LOT cool.

 Source: Kevin Mazur.Wireimage

Another team of manicurists worked with designers Katie Holmes and Jeanne Yang for the first NYFW showing of their label Holmes & Yang. Models wore the always-popular shade of nude on fingers and toes, but nails were accented with asymmetrical French tips in black or a flaming clear red.

Source: Kevin Mazur.Wireimage

Matching your nails not just to the colour but to the pattern or texture of your outfit was a huge trend in the making, and easily achieved with the nail strips some designers are bringing out. Lots of backstage teams chose to use them for their simplicity and time saving application, which is the reason we love them too!

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