SKINTELLIGENT: What you really need to know to get great skin

Posted on July 11, 2022 by Catherine Balavage

SKINTELLIGENT

What you really need to know to get great skin

By Dr Natalia Spierings

Published by Vermilion.

Trade Paperback priced £16.99

The first entirely evidence-based skincare guide written by a real expert that explains how skin actually works, how to navigate the confusing world of Big Skincare and what you really need to do to achieve healthy, glowing skin – throughout your life.

This is the first book about skincare based on fact, not fiction

There is no such thing as ‘essential’ skincare; almost all skincare should be viewed as a ‘luxury good’ and therefore, in fact, absolutely not essential!

Scared of using Vaseline? Don’t be – it’s the best moisturiser on the market, also the cheapest, it doesn’t ‘clog pores’ or cause pimples and it is totally safe to use. Plus, it is in every single moisturiser on the market anyway.
You don’t need to buy a separate product to use around your eyes, just use your regular moisturiser around your eyes; ‘eye creams’ are a scam
Facials are a waste of time and money
When it comes to skincare, less is always more
Expensive skincare is never better than cheaper skincare

Consultant Dermatologist Dr Natalia Spierings of Channel 5’s Skin A&E has announced the launch of her new book, Skintelligent: what you really need to know to get great skin, published by Vermilion. Dr Natalia Spierings is here to shake things up in the skincare world and isn’t afraid to tell the truth and call out the BS about all things related to skincare. Drawing on a decade of work as a practicing consultant dermatologist, helping thousands of people achieve great skin, she will empower you with the knowledge to navigate the confusing world of skincare so you never get fooled into buying hundreds of pounds of disappointing cosmetic skincare products again. If you have a problem with your skin – whether it is pimples, pigmentation, overly dry skin, large pores or whatever – the problem you have needs to be viewed as a skin abnormality or even a disease and therefore cannot be corrected with a three-step skincare regime you buy at a department store.

Dr Natalia Spierings said: “I wrote this book with the aim of answering all the hundreds of questions I get every day from my patients and through social media about skincare; there is too much misinformation being thrown at us about skincare from people who just don’t know what they are talking about, merely to sell products. It’s time to empower the skincare consumer with facts and the correct information so we all stopping wasting our money (and our hope) on products that don’t deliver on their (often outlandish) claims.”

Using an unbiased, evidence-based approach and cutting through the pseudo-science, she explains:

– how skin actually works

– which skincare products are proven to be effective for all of major facial skin complaints

– what trendy skincare ingredients do or don’t do what they promise and why

– what you can do to manage everything from acne to rosacea to melasma as well as wrinkles and sun-damage

Bringing together years of experience treating a huge range of skin problems, Skintelligent is the only book you will ever need to read to get great skin.

“Buying this book will be a great investment; following Natalia’s advice will save you money on your skincare whilst helping you to look your best.”

Dr Andrew Birnie, Consultant Dermatologist & Founder of Altruist Sunscreen

“Dr Natalia Spierings is a terrific consultant dermatologist with a very clear – and utterly science-based — approach to skincare which many people will find refreshing.”

Alice Hart-Davis, founder of thetweakmentsguide.com

About the Author

Dr Natalia Spierings is a Consultant Dermatologist with a Master’s Degree in Aesthetic Medicine. A unique combination of technical skill, depth of knowledge, aesthetic sensibility and communication skills has positioned her globally as a leading dermatologist. She currently splits her clinical time between both the NHS and private sector in London, and at Kings College Hospital in Dubai. @drnataliaspierings

My Little Brother By Diane Saxon reviewed by Natalie Jayne Peeke West Country Correspondent

Posted on July 11, 2022 by Margaret Graham

It was an ordinary school day, the day I lost my little brother. One moment he was on the roundabout and then was gone. Gone. Missing.

They all blamed me. I was in charge. Even though I was only ten years old. They sent me away. The hurt, the shame, the questions. The not knowing. I tried to move on. It’s been nineteen years in exile and now somebody wants me back.

Someone with a dark secret. They hold the keys, they know the truth.So, I need to return to the Welsh village of my childhood to find out who, because I have a secret, too…

I did something bad…

In reviewing My Little Brother I have to declare I have a very personal attachment to this book: during lockdown I attended a virtual book launch for Diane Saxon’s book ‘The Ex’. During the launch Diane revealed that some lucky attendees would have the opportunity to pick a name for a character and another would pick two random objects for her to sneak into her next book. I said to myself ‘If i get to pick a character’s name i would use my mum’s name ‘Caryn’ as she has never been able to buy things like a mug with her name on, as it is so rare.

In addition my mum spent the first half of her life spelling out her name whenever she made a appointment etc. and then when she married my dad her surname changed from Thomas to Peeke and for the last 34 years she has had to spell out her last name too.

Lo and behold I won the chance to name a character and true to my word (all be it to myself) i chose Caryn. And as fate would have it my sister won the chance to pick two random objects. She chose darts as her husband plays darts and false teeth which is one of our memories of our great grandmother – she would keep them in a glass in her very pink bathroom and as children we found it hilarious.

You can imagine my excitment when Diane Saxon informed her readers of the book title and release date and that a Advanced Reader’s Copy (ARC) was available on Netgallly. I was ecstatic when my request to read it was approved.

So, now you know my life story I will progress to the review.

Diane Saxon is a sensational author and her latest book will have you on the edge of your seat because nothing is certain, except that you are questioning everything.

My Little brother is a gripping, tear jerking, nerve racking and exciting read.

The scenery is described with such empathetic detail that you are transported to the rainy valleys of Wales, and almost feel the rain. The characters are so diverse and strong but totally believable, and Saxon flawlessly includes Welsh dialect and accents which not only do not hinder, but actually contribute to the characters’ authenticity.

Diane Saxon is a natural born story-teller and this is reflected in all of her books. Reading My Little Brother reminded me of watching episodes of Johnathan Creek and Poiriot because anything could happen, and frequently did, and it makes sense. This novel is far from predictable and you will not be able to put it down until all is revealed

If you enjoy a good ‘who done it’ then this book is for you. Read it, and see if Saxon has included the false teeth, the name and darts!

My Little Brother by Diane Saxon is available from 11th July in HB, PB. Audio and eBook.

As the final whistle blows on Wimbledon Joffe serves some aces…

Posted on July 10, 2022 by Margaret Graham

Joffe’s book of the week is THE COWES WEEK MURDERS, the latest utterly gripping detective mystery from bestselling author Pauline Rowson — out now for just 99p | 99c.

Renegade detective Andy Horton is on a sailing trip to France when he gets the news: Sergeant Cantelli’s nephew, Johnnie Oslow, is missing.

Then the charred remains of a body are discovered in a disused tunnel. Is it Cantelli’s nephew?

The search for a missing person soon becomes a hunt for a ruthless killer. And this killer is just getting started.

CLICK HERE TO BUY THE COWES WEEK MURDERS BY PAULINE ROWSON FOR JUST 99P | 99C.

The Secret of Bagnett Hall by Norman Russell 99p/99c

One dead heiress.
A fortune hanging in the balance. A cunning guest who’ll do anything to claim the money for herself.

The brand-new, completely gripping whodunnit from Norman Russell is filled with gripping twists, charming characters and old-school intrigue . Just my sort of read.

The End of a Journey by Grace Thompson 99p/99c

South Wales, 1953. Zena Martin and Jake Williams are happy, in love, and about to announce their engagement. Meanwhile, Zena’s brother, Greg, hopes to persuade the beautiful Rose Conelly to meet his family and begin the next stage of their relationship.

Everything seems to be going well for the Martins. Then their beloved father tragically dies of a heart attack and long-buried secrets come to light, changing everything. As secrets so often do but they are great for plotting, and this is no different.

THE ROOMMATE BY CAROLINE MACON FLEISCHER

Coming soon from Joffe Books, THE ROOMMATE, really is one of the most nail-biting psychological thrillers of 2022 from debut author Caroline Macon Fleischer — available to pre-order now for just 99p | 99c.

Joffe couldn’t be more excited to be publishing the debut novel from an exciting and original new voice in psychological fiction, perfect for fans of Shari Lapena, Becca Day, Patricia MacDonald and Freida McFadden.

In the words of Joffe Books Associate Commissioning Editor, Steph Carey:

“The Roommate is an absolutely chilling psychological thriller. The plot is so dark and twisty, and the characters are so well drawn that you know deep in your bones it could happen to you, and that’s the most terrifying thing! It’s been so much fun working with Caro and I cannot wait for everyone to read this incredible debut.”

CLICK HERE TO WATCH AN ANIMATED COVER REVEAL FOR THE ROOMMATE BY CAROLINE MACON FLEISCHER.

CLICK HERE TO PRE-ORDER THE ROOMMATE BY CAROLINE MACON FLEISCHER FOR 99P | 99C.

Joffe told us exciting news that will appeal to any aspiring writers:

The Creative Writing Ink Short Story Competition 2022 is open to all writers writing in English across the globe, and is open for submissions until 4 p.m. (GMT) on 30 September 2022.

The first prize winner will receive a cash prize of £1,000, an online creative writing course with Creative Writing Ink and publication on Creative Writing Ink’s website.

CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE CREATIVE WRITING INK 2022 SHORT STORY PRIZE.

Only One in Ten Brits are Happy With Their Skin | We Love Hada Labo Tokyo

Posted on July 6, 2022 by Catherine Balavage

ONLY ONE IN TEN OF BRITS ARE HAPPY WITH THEIR SKIN
New Report reveals that women feel under pressure to look perfect all the time and explains how we can be kinder to ourselves

British women constantly feel that they need to keep improving their appearance according to a new real world research with 1,000 women aged 35 and older, commissioned by Japan’s leading skincare brand, Hada Labo Tokyo, and the brains behind the next generation skincare innovation new to the UK.

On a more positive note, most women (60 per cent) say they want to look good for themselves rather than for anyone else, and almost two thirds want to look good for their age rather than trying to look younger. In fact, role models who have embraced their age were chosen as examples of women ageing well, with 57 per cent of respondents naming Helen Mirren as their skincare goddess, with Joanna Lumley second (42 per cent), and Davina McCall (40 per cent) third.

The pandemic and post pandemic living has caused more than a quarter of women (27 per cent) to drop their daily skincare routine, but over half (55 per cent) have managed to stick with it, with a surprising number of Brits (18 per cent) finding that their commitment to a routine has improved. Getting back out into the world without the Covid-19 restrictions is now prompting more of us (64 per cent) to bring our skincare back into sharper focus.

According to the survey 68 per cent of British women take time out for skincare with over half following the cleanse-tone-moisturise routine, while 38 per cent use a scrub or wash followed by a moisturiser. Around 17 per cent of women opt for plain soap and water, and 25 per cent use a facial wipe instead of a cleanser.

Common skin complaints

Fewer than one in ten of us (a paltry seven per cent) always feel happy with our skin’s appearance.^[1] So what’s causing us to feel uncomfortable in our own skin?

Hada Labo’s survey poll ^[2] shows that women in the UK can experience a wide range of different skin health issues. For around a quarter of us, sunburn (27 per cent), acne (24 per cent), or eczema (24 per cent) are a problem, while almost a fifth of us (18 per cent) get cold sores and nearly one in ten suffer with psoriasis (9 per cent) or rosacea (8 per cent).

Even more concerning is that even women who don’t necessarily suffer from a skin disorder are conscious of certain issues with their skin including:

Dryness: 60 per cent
Dullness: 42 per cent
Dark eye circles: 35 per cent
Fine lines: 27 per cent
Uneven skin tone: 27 per cent
Redness: 27 per cent
Itchy skin: 26 per cent

The benefits of next generation hyaluronic acid innovation

As well as the natural ageing process both the perimenopause and menopause can have a considerable impact, with over a third (34 per cent) of women saying that their skin felt drier then. Skin expert, Gina Akers explains: “Dehydration of the skin is a very real issue, especially as we get older. To keep skin looking healthy and supple, we need to add hydration. We need water-lock formulas to ensure deep hydration that actually lasts.”

Leading women’s health expert Dr Catherine Hood points out that we do need to change up our skincare regimes as we get older: “With increasing age the body starts to produce less hyaluronic acid and what it does produce is lower quality. This results in drier, more dehydrated skin. To keep skin looking healthy, smooth, and supple, we need to add hydration and it is important to realise that a moisturiser alone will not do that particular job.”

Hyaluronic acid is a clear gel that’s made naturally within the body. Its job is to lock in water to keep our skin, tissues and eyes hydrated. An impressive number of us (43 per cent) do opt for skincare products that contain hyaluronic acid, with more than half (52 per cent) knowing something about the science behind this skincare ingredient. Seven out of ten women were aware that hyaluronic acid can help with skin appearance, with a third (33 per cent) of women deciding to incorporate it into their skincare routine after seeing it on social media.

The hero product: Beauty gurus Caroline Hirons and Nadine Baggott are both long-time fans of Hado Labo Tokyo’s next-generation approach to hyaluronic acid, and demand for the range’s products is such that one is now sold every two seconds around the world. Frost editor-in-chief Catherine Balavage is also a huge fan. The best-selling range in Japan Hado Labo Tokyo has been hailed as a skincare game changer due to its multi-layered hyaluronic acid formulas, which incorporate anti-ageing ingredients like retinol and collagen.

The Japanese beauty philosophy is rooted in the idea that products work best in harmony with the skin. Inspired by this philosophy, the Hado Labo Tokyo skincare range uses quality ingredients with no unnecessary extras which could overwhelm the skin.

Hada Labo Tokyo have created an exclusive multi molecular combination of different types of hyaluronic acid, called Super Hyaluronic Acid, which provides twice the moisture-retention capacity of normal HA by anchoring to the different layers of the epidermis. It’s no wonder that recent research data found that 80 per cent of women noted that after just four weeks of using the range their skin’s texture was improved while 74 per cent saw an improvement in skin elasticity.

FAST PRODUCT SUMMARY:

The Red Line

Hada Labo Anti-Aging Eye & Mouth Cream

Hada Labo’s Deep Wrinkle Corrector Eye & Mouth Area Cream has four types of hyaluronic acid, collagen, and retinol in a golden coloured cream that’s suitable for sensitive skin. Use it after cleansing in the morning and at night, patting around the eyes and mouth to help reduce deeper wrinkles.

Here’s a fast spot light on the clever, next generation hyaluronic acid ingredients used in the Hada Labo Red Line Range that the skin scientists as Hada Labo swear by:

Sodium Hyaluronate: A water-binding ingredient used for moisturizing and hydrating. The molecule can hold up to 1000 their own weight in water. Sodium Hyaluronate can replace some of the water lost in the epidermis.

Sodium acetylated hyaluronate: This is called super hyaluronic acid. It was developed with the aim of raising affinity with the skin based on hyaluronic acid. Compared with the same concentration of hyaluronic acid, it is characterized by a much greater capacity to retain moisture in the epidermis and good skin affinity. Because of this, it can keep skin moist for long times.

Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid: Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid is hyaluronic acid broken into smaller bits. The small molecules can easily penetrate and help replace some of the water lost in the epidermis, and potentially fight wrinkles and other signs of aging.

Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer: A modified form of skin-replenishing hyaluronic acid attached to a polymer structure that keeps it within skin’s uppermost layers longer, allowing for enhanced hydration. This creates a “sponge” effect to restore the skin to its fuller, more youthful appearance and smooths out fine lines.

Hada Labo Anti-Aging Super Hydrator Lotion

Hada Labo’s Anti-Aging Super Hydrator Lotion is much more than a silky, fragrance-free drink of water for your skin. The power-packed lotion contains four types of hyaluronic acid Sodium Hyaluronate; Sodium acetylated hyaluronate; Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid; Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer; offering multi-layer hydration, plus anti-aging ingredients collagen and retinol. After cleansing, pat the lotion over your face, neck and decolletage before you apply your moisturiser.

Hada Labo Anti-Aging Wrinkle Reducer Day Cream

Hada Labo’s Anti-Aging Wrinkle Reducer Day Cream with Super Hyaluronic Acid^TM, Collagen and Retinol offers multi-layer hydration with four types of hyaluronic acid Sodium Hyaluronate; Sodium acetylated hyaluronate; Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid; Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer; plus collagen and retinol. The supersmooth, fragrance-free cream is designed to be used in the morning, after the Super Hydrator Lotion to help lock in moisture for a glowing complexion.

Hada Labo Anti-Aging Repair Night Cream

Hada Labo’s Anti-Aging Repair Night Cream is packed with more than 20 carefully blended active ingredients, including three types of hyaluronic acid – Sodium Hyaluronate; Sodium acetylated hyaluronate; Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid; retinol and an intensely regenerating complex of tetrapeptide-5 and collagen to reduce wrinkles and restore radiance and hydration. With its ‘Lock-in Moist’ formula, skin retains more moisture.

Hada Labo Anti-Aging Facial Sheet Mask

Hada Labo’s Anti-Aging Facial Masks double the levels of skin hydration, leading to a tighter, brighter, and smoother complexion and a more youthful appearance. The best part is that it feels like a real facial, which gives you that radiant skin treatment look and feel, without having to leave the house.

The White Line

HADA LABO WHITE LINE HYALURONIC ACID SCIENCE: Here’s a fast summary on the smart, must have, hyaluronic acid ingredients used in the Hada Labo White Line Range bottled up by the Japanese skin specialists that users swear by:

Hydroxypropyltrimonium hyaluronate: A conditioning agent for skin and, helps deposit active ingredients on skin.

Hada Labo Gentle Hydrating Cleanser

Hada Labo’s Gentle Hydrating Cleanser gives the rest of your skincare toolkit a chance to work their magic on a squeaky clean skin. This creamy cleanser contains three types of hyaluronic acid, formulated to cleanse, protect and lock in moisture, leaving skin silky smooth.

Hada Labo Super Hydrator Lotion

Hada Labo’s Super Hydrator Lotion is a light lotion that penetrates the skin within seconds. With deeply moisturising active ingredients, including Super Hyaluronic Acid^TM, its LOCK-in-MOIST formula seals hydration inside the skin, stopping water from evaporating, to hold back the appearance of wrinkles.

Hada Labo Absolute Smoothing & Moisturising Cream (Day & Night)

Hada Labo’s Absolute Smoothing & Moisturising Cream may feel light and fluffy but it harnesses outstanding power. Its high concentration of Super Hyaluronic Acid^TM allows it to intensely moisturise and smooth the skin, leaving it feeling refreshed, radiant, and super soft. Suitable for sensitive skin, it also helps put the brakes on the aging process.

Hada Labo Intense Hydrating Skin Plumping Gel

Hada Labo’s Intense Hydrating Skin Plumping Gel is a luxuriously delicate gel, combining the complexion enhancing properties of a cream and a serum. Its high concentration of Super Hyaluronic Acid^TM makes it intensely moisturising, filling in the skin to create a smooth, ultra-soft complexion.

Hada Labo Smoothing Anti Fatigue Eye Cream

Hada Labo’s Smoothing Anti Fatigue Eye Cream intensely moisturises and smoothes the skin around the eyes. It contains Super Hyaluronic Acid^TM, to reduce wrinkles and signs of fatigue, as well as collagen and pink silk tree extract to rejuvenate and firm the skin, and caffeine to eliminate under-eye circles and puffiness.

Hada Labo Moisturising Sheet Mask

Hada Labo’s Moisturising Sheet Mask is saturated with serum containing three types of hyaluronic acid to intensely moisturise, revive and smooth the skin. Simply unfold the mask and carefully position the eye, nose, and mouth openings as you gently press the mask to your face. Leave it on for 15 minutes before removing gently, with no need to rinse.

https://www.hadalabotokyo.pl/en/home/

Microplane® Premium Classic Zester – No Bitterness Today – by Award Winning Author Dr Kathleen Thompson

Posted on July 4, 2022 by Margaret Graham

I’ve been making fruit vodkas recently. It’s such a fabulous way to preserve the taste of summer, not to mention an excuse for a rather pleasant alcoholic treat. My method is super lazy – simply pop some fruit in a jam jar with vodka, screw on the lid and leave it – for weeks, months – I’m not sure yet, but my research involves copious tastings and may take a while.

My favourite project is lemon vodka. It’s made with the lemon rind – which pleases me as I hate throwing it away. You can add a sugar solution, creating limoncello, or, which I prefer, just leave it au naturel. But this is the rub. Try as I might to slice the thin rind off the lemon, it’s almost impossible not to end up with some pith. The oils in the rind provide the fabulous aroma, smell and taste of fresh lemons, but too much pith adds an unwelcome bitterness. Traditional graters are no better – bulky and awkward and the odd sliced skin incident detracting from the fun.

So how thrilled was I to discover The Microplane® Premium Classic Zester? Who knew someone would invent such a perfect tool for zesting lemons?

It was inspired by a Canadian housewife in the early 90s, who, fed up, like me, struggling with her traditional grater, borrowed one of her husband’s wood-working tools. The current Microplane® Premium Classic Zester is a distinct improvement on a wood plane – so ladies, hide it from your husbands or you may find it’s been relocated to his workshop.

What I love about this zester is firstly it’s long and slim – so much more convenient and easy to use. The stainless steel blade has perfectly regular photo-etched micro-teeth – in fact 400 of them. So sharp that they make zesting completely effortless, but tiny for precision and with a protective cover for safety. I just had to rub the blade very gently against the lemon and in seconds I had a pile of perfect zest, leaving the pith intact on the lemon, meaning I don’t have to use the lemon immediately. The zester was firm and solid with a pretty-coloured soft-touch handle. It also has tiny anti-scratch ‘feet’ on the end so you can stand it in a pan or bowl for more stability. Because the micro-teeth are so tiny and all in the same direction, it’s really easy to wipe clean, but you can also put it in the dishwasher.

So, now my lemon vodka production is taking off with the help of my new toy, I just need to worry about where to put all those lovely bottles.

Of course if you don’t share my addiction for limoncello, you can use the zester for other things too – zest any citrus rind for a pretty and tasty cake topping, or you can use it to grate ginger root, chocolate, spices such as nutmeg and cinnamon – and if you’re really cooking something special, how about truffle? It’s easy to grate tiny or larger amounts.

The Microplane® Premium Classic Zester is available in a choice of attractive colours to suit any kitchen. It’s available from hartsofstur.com for the special price of £21.50 (RRP £23.95). Take a look – you’ll love it.

By Dr K Thompson, award-winning author of From Both Ends of the Stethoscope: Getting through breast cancer – by a doctor who knows

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01A7DM42Q http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01A7DM42Q
http://faitobooks.co.uk

Note: These articles express personal views. No warranty is made as to the accuracy or completeness of information given and you should always consult a doctor if you need medical advice.

Puressentiel’s Anti-Pest fabric spray kills house pests the natural way

Posted on July 4, 2022 by Frostie

KILL PESKY HOUSE PESTS AND BEAT ANNOYING ALLERGIES WITH PLANT DERIVED SPRAY

From bed bugs to dust mites, relieve your home of allergens with Puressentiel Anti-Pest fabric Spray

www.uk.puressentiel.com

Improving the health of your home is now a spray away thanks to Puressentiel, the brains behind the evidence backed plant-based health products for everyday wellness needs. New Puressentiel’s Anti-Pest Fabric Spray kills and staves off house pests, the natural way.

Containing the power of Palmarosa essential oil, this spray can be used on textiles in the home, such as bedding, mattresses, sofas, and cuddly toys, as well as indoor furniture.

Dust mites, bed bugs, fleas and moths are all common in UK homes and can be the cause of infuriating and often painful symptoms such as rashes, bumps, itching and even skin swelling and blisters. Those who are allergic to the pests may also suffer from coughs, runny nose, and sneezing.

In fact for many, these symptoms can wreak havoc on their day-to-day lives. The Puressentiel Anti-Pest Fabric Spray kills and prevents reinfestation with itch mites and dust mites including Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, the main dust mite responsible for allergies. It also helps kill other common house pests such as clothes moths, fleas, and bed bugs.

Natural health specialist and chemist, from Puressentiel, Dr Tim Bond, explains that; “The Palmarosa oil comes from the Palmarosa plant, which is native to India, however it now grows in various countries around the world.

“The essential oil, Palmarosa, has been used traditionally for thousands of years, and also goes by the name of Indian Geranium, Rosha or Gingergrass.

“It’s extremely popular in skincare products and works well for helping to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. Interestingly, it has also been proven to help beat itch mite infections in humans too as well as control the mites within the environment ^]”

Dr Tim Bond adds that although these mites are typically more common between the months of May and October, symptoms can actually be felt all year round.

“Most of these mites die during the winter, but heating systems can cause the particles to be essentially ‘swirled’ around the home.”

The Puressentiel Anti-Pest Fabric Spray’s formula contains 0% Propellant Gas and leaves a fresh fragrance when used. Plus, a multi-directional pump means the spray can be used in any direction, making application even easier.

Puressentiel Anti-Pest Fabric Spray can be used on all textiles that are machine-washable at temperatures over 60°C, as well as non-washable textiles such as furniture, curtains, and car seats, at risk of infestation. It’s best however to treat one textile at a time.

To use, spray the surface you wish to treat for 16 seconds per metre² from 30 cm away. One 150ml spray will cover the equivalent of around four standard double mattresses. Leave the spray for 4 hours and then air and vacuum or, if you’re working on textiles that come into contact with skin, opt for a machine wash.

Dr Bond adds that the power of Palmarosa in Puressentiel Anti-Pest Fabric Spray helps us to avoid chemicals and unnatural ingredients in our homes.

“In the Western world, we’re quickly coming round to the fact that these natural, essential oils, have a myriad of helpful healing properties, and Puressentiel is paving the way with their natural range of products.”

THE WILD YEAR – the family who lived in a tent for a year

Posted on July 2, 2022 by Catherine Balavage

The Wild Year immediately caught my attention for it’s originality. This memoir by Jen Benson, who lived with her family for a year in a tent, is a brave book about triumph over hardship. This book is awash with nature and atmosphere. It is inspirational and will fill you with both joy and hope. It will also make you angry about the financial hardships so many are under. Jen writes about struggle with flair and complete honesty. Her talent as a writer is vast, and her love for her family and the world around her is so beautiful. I cannot recommend this book enough. I think everyone should read it for it’s insights into poverty, financial hardship, and the beautiful outdoors. Awash with love, nature and bravery.

This is an utterly delightful, eye-opening read, bathed in the natural world. Reminiscent of The Salt Path by Raynor Winn and Homesick by Catriona Davies. Jen and her husband Sim have written a whole host of walking and running guides, and this is her first memoir. You can find out more about their previous books on their website — https://jenandsimbenson.co.uk/books/

The Wild Year is all about Jen and her young family’s decision to live in a tent for a year after suffering severe financial hardship and needing a way to live that retains their freedom but doesn’t cost a lot. Think cooking over fire in the dead of winter in stormy weather with a 3 year old and a 6 month old! Out now with Aurum (Quarto Group).

The Wild Year tells the uplifting true story of a family who left their old life behind to spend a year living wild in a tent around Britain.

With a baby and a toddler, mounting debt, work demands and stress trampling over their desire to spend time together as a family in nature, Jen and Sim Benson move out of their rented accommodation, sell up their possessions and decide to live in a tent for a year as nomads around rural Britain. This is the story of that year – the highs and the lows – the doubts, epiphanies and the weather.

Detailing one family’s search for a life in the wild, away from the screens and stresses of modern life, this captivating memoir is a must read for nature lovers or anyone who has dreamed of a life outdoors. It’s nature writ large with the joys and challenges of each season experienced under canvas, a story of ultimate freedom in the beautiful landscapes of Britain. This is a book that gently steals up on you and captures your heart.

Jen Benson has a passion for wild places and sustainable adventures. A lifelong runner, she is a writer, photographer and part-time PhD researcher exploring the philosophy of running. Jen and her husband Sim live in Wiltshire with their two young children. They have co-written several books including Wild Running, Short Walks in Beautiful Places, Amazing Family Adventures and 100 Great Walks with Kids. Jen writes regularly for the national press. Twitter/Instagram @jenandsim

Did You Miss Me? by Sophia Money-Coutts Book Review

Posted on July 2, 2022 by Catherine Balavage

I have read all of Sophia Money-Coutts’s books and I am a huge fan of her witty, entertaining novels. She writes wonderful, sparkling characters and I always enjoy the story. As usual, Did You Miss Me?, is clever and funny. Sophia has taken a great premise and executed it with flair. Another wonderful novel. Heartily recommended.

Did You Miss Me? is Sophia’s 4^th novel and explores whether you really can rekindle your first love, and is of course written with Sophia’s trademark humour, wit and gloriously steamy romance scenes. Nell, the main character, is effortlessly likeable and features alongside her barmy mother (who falls for an eccentric Italian barista), the divine Arthur Drummond and Wilma the wolfhound.

You never forget the one that got away, do you?

Nell Mason is extremely happy with her life – or at least, that’s what she tells herself. She’s lucky to have a high-powered job as a lawyer, even if it does come with an eccentric set of billionaire divorce clients. And she’s absolutely fine living with her sweet, if slightly dull, boyfriend Gus in their London flat where they have very sensible sex once (OK, sometimes twice) a week. She’s definitely not stuck in a rut.

But when Nell bumps into childhood friend and first love Arthur Drummond who broke her heart fifteen years ago, she’s more than a little shaken. The seemingly perfect life she’s worked so hard for starts to feel, well, less perfect. Maybe Nell’s been kidding herself all these years. Can she ever get over her first love?

Sophia Money-Coutts is a journalist and author who spent five years studying the British aristocracy while working as Features Director at Tatler. Prior to that she worked as a writer and an editor for the Evening Standard and the Daily Mail in London, and The National in Abu Dhabi. She writes a column for The Sunday Telegraph called Modern Manners and often appears on radio and television channels talking about important topics such as Prince Harry’s wedding and the etiquette of the threesome.

Frost Magazine

Books and Lifestyle

Category Archives: Life & Style