This post has been in the back of mind for a while but it wasn’t until I had constant comments from co-workers and shop assistants on being blonde, (beige blonde in particular) that I decided to write this post. Being a blonde can be a lot of maintenance, but there are some major payoffs such as; you can wear less makeup and it blends better with grey hair. The main factors you want to keep in mind when being a blonde are the colour and condition, these two factors are vital in determining the overlook of being a  “good” blonde.   Keep reading as I discuss both these factors.

 Colour

The darker your hair is, the more processing your hair has to go through to become blonde.  Hair has different underlying pigments depending on its colour. These pigments range from red, orange, yellow and pale yellow  (see my fancy paint picture above ;)).
So for example if you had brown hair and it had an undertone pigment of red and then you bleached it but didn’t leave it on for long enough you would end up with an orange blonde colour rather than a clean blonde. This is because although you may have lifted the brown through the red pigment, you may not have lifted it past the orange pigment.

Bleach takes out the pigment in your hair, the tricky part is knowing the amount of time you should leave the bleach on for hence why it is always best to get a professional to dye your hair or else you might end up with an orange or banana based blonde colour.

You want to avoid something like this (left hand side).

*Sourced From

Ok so now we have covered some theory here are some tips for getting the right blonde for you.

• Get a professional to do your hair, bring in pictures of what you do and don’t like, you need to be on the same page with your hairdresser when it comes to dying your hair blonde. Do you want a platinum blonde look, a sun kissed blonde or a beigey blonde look? Not all blondes are the same. Think about whether you suit a warmer tone or a cooler tone.

Olaplex!!!!!I’m sure most blondes have heard of Olaplex by now, it’s a professional system that is used to help prevent damage to your hair when it is being processed. Normally if you were trying to take someone from a dark brown to a blonde you may not be able to do it in one sitting but Olaplex keeps the integrity of the hair intact so that bleach can be left on for longer without causing breakage.(See picture above for results!!!) This is definitely something I recommend for people who have naturally dark hair and are wanting to take the blonde route.

 Condition

Treat Treat Treat …. You need to treat blonde hair with extra care. Use a Hair mask every time you wash your hair and use conditioner to comb through your hair in the shower. Coconut oil treatments are your best friend ,you need to hydrate the hair but not weigh it down. Some of my favourite hair masks are Loreal Serie Expert Liss Ultimate Masque, Moroccanoil Restorative Hair Mask  and Toni and Guy Nourish Reconstruction Mask .

Trim – You want keep blonde hair in shape, spilt ends tend to show so you need to maintain your hair with regular trims. Every 8 weeks or so.

 Heat – try and use less heat when possible, blonde hair has gone through a lot of processing so heat can cause extra stress to the hair. Try to stick to heat styled look once a week and leave hair natural the rest of the time.

Toning Shampoos –  Every blonde needs a silver shampoo to counteract any brassiness. My all time favourite is De Lorenzo , This is just perfect it’s not too purple or too blue .
To get that beige blonde look:

• Coat your hair in Conditioner and mix my 2 pumps of silver shampoo with 1 pump of De Lorenzo Rosewood shampoo  apply to your hair .
• Leave on for about 20 seconds and wash off.

*if you’re not sure of  how the colour will come out and you want to avoid that grandma purple rinse look then always coat your hair with conditioner or a mask, this prevents the colour from grabbing to your hair .
When it comes to toning shampoos and timing you want to experiment with how long it takes you to get your desired look. Also keep in mind, if your hair grabs product and colour very quickly you will probably need less time than is suggested on the bottle.

Lastly ask people whose hair colour you like, that’s the best way to find out what hair colour you like.

Love

LetsBeFranc

Picture sourced from

Olaplex

https://www.facebook.com/olaplex/photos/pb.347578558683494.-2207520000.1444122307./850827978358547/?type=3&theater
 Colour correction done by Katy Rose-Prichard (IG Handle: katyroseprichard).

Why do certain products stand the test of time and what are some of the new beauties on the scene?  

Keep reading as I discuss below ……..

Chanel Nail Polish - Rogue Noir

These nail polishes are so beautiful but I’d have to say probably one of the best out there, I bought two colours over seven years ago and they still glide on perfectly they are never gluggy, and dry quickly. Whether or not I should be keeping them for that long is another story. I recently purchased Rogue Noir again the iconic colour that was made popular by Uma Thurman in Pulp Fiction and just like that cult movie this colour has its own following. If you want to relive your nighties uber chic moments get on this. Pulp Fiction impact without the violence.

Lancôme – Miracle Cushion foundation

This New Kid has been getting a lot of exposure and I can see why. It’s portable, refines the look of pores and gives you a soft natural finish. If Mac face and body and a mineral powder had a baby this would be it. Soft on the skin, long wearing and so natural looking. This foundation also has an SPF of 23 so it’s great for summer and outdoor events. You can also use different shades to highlight and contour because of its seamless effect. Colours to try out are 1, 2 and 4. This is sure to be a beauty classic in no time.

Nars – Laguna bronzer

This beauty classic is the holy grail of bronzers once you use this you won’t use anything else. Why? Well generally with bronzers there are two issues that need to be addressed 1. Colour – a bronzer should be brown not a muddy unnatural colour that makes you look like you’ve  stuck your face in a puddle of red under toned mud. 2. Longevity ok so you might find the perfect colour but then it keeps coming off after a couple of hours. That’s were Nars’ Laguna bronzer comes in. It addresses both these points in one natural sweep. It’s the most natural long wearing colour I have seen, it gives just the right amount of colour for light to medium complexions and lasts through even the longest day. If you need a bit more colour then Laguna then you can use Nars’ Casino. I have been buying this bronzer for over 6 years and will continue to keep doing so. This beauty classic is here to stay.

Love

Let’s Be Franc

Sleek Hair

When you don’t know what to do with your unwashed hair and you have to go out.

It’s Friday Night you’ve finished up for the week and you’re heading out, you have a shower, do your make up , get your favourite outfit on and then realise … My Hair ….. My glorious hair “I haven’t washed it since Tuesday (or in some cases Sunday :O ) what am I going to do”?

You need something that is quick and easy but looks put together, well this is the style for you. I love the slicked back quiff look it’s so chic and so easy.

What you’ll need

• Dirty hair (preferably 2 days or older, the natural oils in your hair help to hold the initial style)
• 1 Comb
• 1 teasing Brush
• Soft hair spray 
• Extra hold hairspray 

 Here’s how you can recreate it

Comb back the top of your hair so you get a little quiff

Comb the sides of your hair making sure you focus on making these smooth.

Use the teasing brush to go over the sides section but not the top quiff – you want to create a bit of height with the quiff. (if you smooth the sides down too much go back to smoothing down with the comb and then use the teasing brush again.)

Once you are happy with the shape spray the quiff and sides with the soft hairspray.

Use the extra hold hair spray mainly on the sides to hold the style in shape.

Pay extra attention to holding down the sides so it creates the contrast with the middle quiff.

This style works best on dirty hair and only needs hair spray and two tools.  Pair with dewy skin, liquid liner and a bold  red, brown or deep purple mauve lip and you’re ready to go.

Love LetsBeFranc

*source images sourced via google
http://soundfox.co/mp3/iggy-azalea_-_fancy-ft-charli-xcx/

Via google

 https://www.pinterest.com/pin/438819557419432849/

Glamour Magazine. Co. uk
via Pinterest

 https://www.pinterest.com/pin/499336677411727913/

http://us.lorealprofessionnel.com/inspiration/gallery
via Pinterest

 https://www.pinterest.com/pin/16255248626410653/

Stockholm. streetstyle.com
via pintrest

Why do certain products stand the test of time and what are some of the new beauties on the scene?  

Keep reading as I discuss below ……..

TRESemmé  - 7 Day Keratin Smooth Heat Activated Treatment

The reason why I love this newcomer is because it’s great for keeping my hair straight and smooth for a special event even while working up a sweat with some Beyoncé dance moves .  If you find that your hair after you’ve straighten it never keeps it’s style for very long or you always wash your hair the night before so you can sleep on your hair because it holds better when it’s a bit dirty then I suggest you try this out. I love using this when I have done an overnight coconut treatment .

 Here’s how I use it :

• Wash my hair
• Apply all my hair products and serums
• Section my hair into three parts
• Apply 2-3 pumps of the treatment in your palm and work through from the mid to ends (if you want Uber straight hair then apply product on the roots, I like a bit of volume so I do mid sections to ends)
• Blow dry
• Straighten (3 times per section) hair as normal.

The heat from the straightener activates the product to leave you with straight smooth hair. I think this is a great option for anyone who has hair that never seems to hold. It’s a new kid but it’s sure to be a classic.

Note: I have wavy, fine, long coloured hair – This may not suit you if your hair is particularly  hard to straighten.  Hair can be very temperamental so for me personally I find this works better for just a weekend, but you may find it works for longer on your hair.

 Nip + Fab – Gycolic Fix Pads

This new kid has been a hit all over Instagram and has gained extra recognition because of Kylie Jenner’s endorsement, it’s a great inexpensive gentle and effective AHA exfoliator. These pads are excellent for a dry, normal, dehydrated skin, they exfoliate using glycolic and lactic acid  .  These pads also contain hyaluronic acid which is a humectant that helps to draw and maintain moisture on the skin.

My skin feels smooth and fresh. I know this will be a classic because there are some skin types that don’t tolerate really active exfoliants and they end up feeling dishearten because  they feel they can’t use a chemical exfoliate, well these Glycolic Fix Pads are here to save the day.  I have personally recommend them to my friends who have a slightly sensitised skin condition and their skin looks amazing.

To Use:

(Packaging says  AM and PM, always start off using something just at night to see how your skin will react, also you may find you get the results you need by only doing it once a day)

• Cleanse Skin
• Use 1 Fix pad and wipe over your Face (avoid eye and lip area)
• Throw away
• Apply your night time Cream

That’s it… easy peesy. A smoother complexion is just one wipe away.

L’Occitane – Shea Butter Ultra Rich Body Cream

Pronounced LOX-EE TAHN

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R1o0OX5REwk

L’Occitane famous for its beauty products that capture the essence of Provence France is well known for its Shea Butter. This Cult Beauty Classic is concentrated with 25% Shea Butter to moisturise the skin without leaving it greasy. As well as Shea Butter this decadent cream boasts a nourishing ingredient list of Linseed, marshmallow, sweet almond, honey and apricot oil.  With a creamy dense texture that melts into your skin, this creams leaves skin soft, silky and smooth. It’s great for winter and anyone who has skin that drinks up moisturiser. A must have in any bathroom cabinet.

Clarisonic – Plus

Where do I start “often imitated never duplicated” that sums up how effective and popular this beauty cult classic is. The Clarisonic offers a deeper cleanse then a regular cleanse with your hands. Its removes any excess product build up, makeup, oil and dirt but it’s also a manual scrub.  It can be used for any skin type and is a great step as part of a home facial.  You can even use it in the shower!!It has an automatic timer so that you know when to move on to the next section of your face, adjustable pulse settings and a body attachment. The Plus is the Rolls Royce of the Clarisonic range, if you want to start off with something basic then the Mia 2 is a perfect option for you.

 How to Use:

• Cleanse Face
• Apply ½ a pea sized amount of cleanser on a damp Clarisonic brush.
• Place the Clarisonic on damp skin starting on your forehead and press the power button.
• Move the clarisonic in a gentle circular motion in that section.
• BEEPS SOUNDS
• Move on to the next section
• Apply a mask and skincare products or just skincare products.

Note: When the body brush attachment is on there is no beebing sound.

It can be used every day but I would suggest 2-3 times a week so to not over manual exfoliate your skin. This is really a skin investment that everyone (male & female) should own.

If you have any comments or questions about these products or anything else I’ve discussed please free to leave me a comment.

Love

Let’sBeFranc

Exfoliation -101

How a wallpaper steamer can help you understand exfoliation

What do exfoliants do?

They exfoliate but in layman’s terms they remove dead skin cells, either by physically moving them or dissolving the bonds of the dead skin cells.

Why is it important to use an exfoliant?

They

• create a smoother texture to the skin
• create an even surface for a superior makeup application
• help to alleviate dryness (from flaky skin)
• can help with blemished skin
• help other products work more effectively

Think of an exfoliant like a wallpaper steamer. You want to paint your walls in a beautiful colour you have just bought (paint= moisturiser and or serum) so you try and paint over the wallpaper but the paint doesn’t sit right, it looks dull and uneven. It doesn’t look as nice as it could because the wallpaper is obstructing any paint from sinking in, well the wallpaper is like the dead skin cells that sit on the top layer of your skin. They need to be removed by the steamer (exfoliant) so that the paint (moisturiser/serum) can be applied evenly and create a beautiful finish.

 How do they work?

There are two types of exfoliants – manual and chemical. Don’t be scared of the word chemical it’s just how the dead skin cells are removed i.e. they are removed /loosened through a chemical reaction.

Below I will discuss the types of exfoliants and which is suited to each skin type and condition.

Manual

Manual exfoliation occurs through a manual movement of dead skin cells such as a scrub (fine particles that buff off the dead skin cells) or a brush the clarisonic (pictured) is a good example. These are the most common forms of exfoliants that people think of when they hear the word exfoliation.

They are suited for people that have no true issues with their skin as the physical movement of the product will not irritate them or rupture (I know graphic) any pimples/acne.

 Best Suited for: Normal, Dry, Combination and Oily skin types with no serious skin problems.

Conditions: some sensitised skins can use a clarisonic brush with the gentle setting and head although I would stick to a chemical enzyme exfoliation because it’s not so over stimulating.

Chemical

There are three types of chemical exfoliants (Enzymes, AHA and BHA) I will start with the “gentlest”.

Enzymes

Enzymes work by dissolving the bonds between the dead skin cells they are generally derived from Papaya (Papain) and Pineapple (Bromelain). They come in a product that needs to be left on the skin for approximately 1-2mins so that the enzymes can work, this step is done after cleansing. Often they are used in a combination with manual scrubs (Elemental Herbology’s Facial Glow (Pictured)) and /or with other AHA or BHA chemical exfoliants(Dermalogica Daily Microfilant (pictured) and Kate Somerville’s Exfolikate).

Best Suited for: All Skin types but best targeted and most effective on Dry, Normal and Combination.

Conditions: Sensitised skin conditions respond the best to enzymatic exfoliants as they are effective and gentle on the skin ( they don’t over stimulate e.g.  like a scrub).

AHAs and BHAs

A Note on AHAs and BHAs

A more efficient working store bought AHA or BHA needs to be in the correct percentage but also the right PH. In Paula Begoun’s  The Beauty Bible  she states from the cosmetic journal (2001, p. 15-18) that “AHAs work best in a 5-8% concentration in a product with a 3-4 PH level and BHAs works best in a 1-2% concentration in a product with a 3-4 PH level.”  To be franc most people will not be checking product percentages or most companies don’t display the percentage and PH level on products. *So my general rule of thumb is to look for the AHA and BHA ingredients on the back of the product and see if they are at the top of the list.  The higher something is in the list the more of that ingredient that is present in the product, this doesn’t necessarily mean there is the correct percentage of an AHA or BHA but it will give you an indication of how your skin will work with these types of exfoliants. If you need something stronger then you can investigate the percentages of the products or alternatively you can get a medical grade chemical peel done ( a medical grade peel would be suitable if you are suffering from serious skin issues/conditions that do not benefit from store bought products). I find that most skin types and conditions benefit from store bought chemical exfoliants.

AHA

AHA stands for Alpha Hydroxy Acid. They are water soluble acids compared to a BHA which is oil soluble (BHAs work better to penetrate the pore which contains oil and dead skin cells) so AHAs are perfectly suited for dry , flaky and sun damaged skin.  They exfoliate through the following acids – Malic (apple) Lactic (milk) Glycolic (sugar cane) , Citric (citrus), tartaric ( generally grape) and Mandelic (Almond) acid. The latter two are not particularly common in AHA exfoliants products. Glycolic acid is the most common and used in most AHA exfoliating products it is suited to Normal, Dry and Combination skin types. It exfoliates on a deeper level than an enzymatic exfoliant and the skin is left looking refined, smooth and bright. Lactic acid is great for sensitised skin as the milk derivative has a gentle exfoliating action on the skin. NIP + FAB Glycolic Fix Pads (pictured) use glycolic and lactic acid to exfoliate the skin and leave the skin soft and clear I really like these for someone who doesn’t have any blackheads but wants more of a result then just  a scrub.

Best Suited for: Normal, Dry and Combination skin types.

Conditions: Dry, flaky skin, general dullness. Lactic acid is a great AHA for slightly sensitised skin

BHA

BHA stands for Beta Hydroxy Acid. It is an oil soluble acid meaning it can penetrate through oil. There is only one BHA -Salicylic acid. Salicylic acid is really great for oily skin and or acneic/ blemished skin for two reasons: One the salicylic acid is able to penetrate through oil and help remove any excess dead skin cells in the pore and two salicylic acid is an anti-inflammatory (an active ingredient in aspirin) so it helps calms down any redness associated with acne, pimples and blemishes. Products sold in stores that do indicate percentages of salicylic acid are generally listed at  2%  but I’ve notice that most products don’t tell you what percentage of salicylic acid is present, still refer to my general rule above about where an ingredient is on the list* for products that don’t list the percentage of salicylic acid. Some good brands to start off with that work well with salicylic acid are Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Peel Pads (pictured)  and Dermalogica. I absolutely love the Alpha Beta Peel Pads they always make my skin look so smooth and help with those  tiny pesky blackheads on my nose -a big thumbs up!!!

Best Suited for: Normal , Combination (more oily then dry) and Oily skin types.

Conditions: Blackheads, blemishes, superficial acneic skin and redness caused by pimples and breakouts.

“I want a salon exfoliation peel that’s stronger then a store bought product but not as invasive as a medical grade peel.”

Sometimes you need a bit more than a store brought product, you have an event on or you just want to relax and let someone else give you a facial than I suggest you start off with a treatment from Dermalogica. I really like the BioSurface™ Peel by Dermalogica it gives great results, suited to many skin types and your skin looks clear, soft and refined three to four days after having the treatment.  If you are booking in for a facial peel for an event get it done approximately three to four days prior this gives your skin time to get rid of any excess dead skin cells and any redness from extractions. You can look up your nearest salon that provides the Dermalogica BioSurface™ Peel  here .

Exfoliation is an important step in any skin routine, it can help alleviate some skin conditions as well as assist your products to work more efficiently with your skin type so that your skin can look smooth and clear. So take a look at what you’re using at the moment and consider if it’s the best possible exfoliant suited for your skin type.

Love

LetsBeFranc

“My milkshake brings all the boys to the yard…..”

One fragrance everyone women should own is vanilla.

Why? Because it’s basically the fragrance equivalent to Kelis’ Milkshake song.

Vanilla, used in many women’s fragrances is said to have the effect of attracting men, it is suggested that vanilla reminds them of mother’s milk and therefore they are subconsciously attracted to that/ you. Whether you believe that fragrance folklore or not I can tell you from experience that vanilla has gotten me a date  (this also has happened to my friend)  and  it will definitely get you a compliment, and to be franc who doesn’t like getting some “you smell really good “praise on a fragrance you have chosen.

Vanilla is present in many fragrances and can be described as smelling sweet, fruity, heavy and rich even woody it is generally classified under the category note of spices but can blend well into any fragrance group or family . Vanilla is such a versatile scent there’s no need to be afraid of it being sickly sweet every women can wear it , it’s just a matter of finding the one that suits you.

Here are some of my favourites that always get compliments.

Un Bois Vanille – Serge Lutens  (long, rectangular with a honey coloured fragrance)

Sweet, mature, slightly bitter not the typical vanilla.

This sweet mature vanilla scent is truly intoxicating. The Tonka bean and creamy coconut milk notes weave throughout the fragrance. There is a slight note of beeswax and a hint of bitter almond and guaiac wood in the mid to bottom layers. The bitter almond and guaiac wood bring a point of difference to this sweet elixir and in doing so bring all the scents together to give this vanilla fragrance a more grown up feel. It has great staying power and wears well on its own or with any other fragrances. Great for a candlelit dinner or a night/day out.

The Healthy Fragrance Vanilla Grapefruit – Lavanila Laboratories ( long, thin ,rectangular with pink flower crest)

Bright, sweet, thrilling, a creamy vanilla with a punch of grapefruit. 

The citrus punch of grapefruit hits you first but blends down with the warm creamy madagascar vanilla which unfolds onto your skin to give you a truly euphoric edible smell.I found this fragrance in Sephora four years ago and fell in love with it. This is the fragrance that got me a date – he kept reaching for my wrist. You can buy it from I Am Natural Store  .  Lavanila Laboratories fragrances all focus around vanilla, there are other combinations besides the grapefruit and vanilla and also a plain pure vanilla scent. This is a great pick me up fragrance for night or day and also comes in a convenient roll on so it easy to be date worthy any time

If you’re not ready for a standout vanilla note in your fragrance then I suggest you try out some of the fragrances below.

Classique intense – Jean Paul Gaultier  (gold feminine physique)

Sexy, sweet, rich soft oriental with rose, jasmine and patchouli.

An oriental with a sweet twist, this fragrance has a rich undertone of an oriental but the vanilla creates a soft sweetness to it. Classique intense is like a Prada Saffiano Bag in the colour Marsala (Classic in style with a twist of colour). This is a beautiful fragrance on its own but also wears well with others. Great for an anniversary dinner, dinner with friends or an event meeting.

M- Mariah carey  (purple Butterfly shaped)

Creamy, sweet with a hint of incense.

Now I know some people have aversions to celebrity fragrances, but you see fragrance is a bit like clothes, clothes should never wear you, you should wear your clothes. If celebrity fragrances smell beautifully on your skin you’d be missing out by not wearing them.

Now … back to M.

Sweet marshmallow, creamy tiara flower and gardenia notes with a base of moroccan incense, amber and patchouli create an alluring effect.  Although this does not have vanilla as one of the main ingredients (I like to think the marshmallows are vanilla flavoured) it truly encapsulates the sweetness of vanilla. Its soft (marshmallows and white florals) and strong (Incense based) notes pull together for a balanced creamy scent. Suitable for summer and winter, great for a first date, night out or work.

Anise and vanilla Jo Malone (cubed rectangular bottle)

Green, spicy wood with an unexpected sweetness of vanilla   

This fragrance opens with a strong anise note, then gradually moves through slight notes of tuberose and frangipani and settles with a woody sweet base of vanilla, vetiver, amber and Tonka beans. The vanilla opens up in the bottom layers with a blend of woody undertones. This vanilla note has a slight greenness to it rather than the typical rich sweetness vanilla is often know for, giving it depth and interest. It’s deep, dark and then lightens up several hours, less is best with this fragrance as a little goes a long way. This is great for someone who likes fragrances from Comme des garconçs as there is an intricate story being told as the fragrance unfolds. Definitely for the rebel vanilla chic girl. A beautiful fragrance for coffee while discussing political events and your dreams. This can be worn either at night or during day and has great staying power.

Let’s be Franc:

Vanilla is a beautiful versatile scent, it may help you with attracting a man, it will definitely get you some compliments but overall it’s YOU that makes YOU desirable and vanilla just helps to amplify that

Love

LetsBeFranc

Why do certain products stand the test of time and what are some of the new beauties on the scene?  Keep reading as I discuss below ……..

Mila and Rose Soy Candles – Paris 

These candles are wonderful, they are fragrant and creamy. When you want to burn a candle and want to have a scent permeating the room this is the way to go. Paris is a fragrant spicy pear and vanilla scent perfect for Christmas time but great for creating ambience at a dinner setting. Soft fruits scents are a great accompaniment to hosted dinner parties. I Like to place this candle on the kitchen bench to give enough fragrance to the entire room.  The great thing about Mila and Rose Soy candle range is that you don’t even have to light the candle  and you can still smell the fragrance when you walk into a room. If you are looking for good quality fragrant candles that don’t break the budget definitely get on to Mila and Rose Soy Candles.

Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs – Light

This Baby is an old school classic it’s basically a water resistant foundation. You can use it when you don’t have time to fake tan, it comes in a 4 colours and it is water resistant. Its especially good for those of us who want to even the tone (complexion) on our legs. How to use: have a shower, dry yourself off and spray on legs then rub in with your hands. Wash your hands and wait for  10 mins and your done. I would wait 30 mins just to be on the safe side and pop on your skirt / dress prior  then apply afterwards. The seamless coverage and easy application is the reason why this is a cult beauty classic.

Babe – no. 3 Pink Himalayan Salt Body Scrub 

This Australian scrub is great for treating dry scaly skin but also the skin condition keratosis pilaris (that chicken like skin) which is just excess keratin that builds up and around the hair follicles . This scrub gets the lets be franc seal of approval because it actually makes skin smooth in one go, doesn’t leave a deceiving oily residue  and with weekly use improves the Keratosis Pilaris skin condition. How to use: Apply on damp skin and gently massage in an upwards motion towards the heart, then rise off. The Pink Himalayan Salt scrub can be used as a bath soak after exercise and Babe  Scrub comes in three types Green tea, Pink salt and Coffee. If you want smooth skin check them out.

SK -II -Facial Essence Treatment 

Soft radiant skin, there is a reason why this is so popular. It brightens the skin and the texture appears finer and smoother. It contains SK-II’s patented ingredient Piteria  which is said to help with the natural cell renewal cycle and keep skin Moisturised. What I have found with this treatment is that my skin is brighter and feels hydrated throughout the day , I have been using this with my home made apple cider vinegar toner and it worked wonders on my giant pimple on the side of the nose. This is a great treatment for anyone who wants a simple routine or  to add a boost to their current skincare regime. How to use: Cleanse skin, pour about 3 drops into the palm of the hand and press into skin…I don’t like to waste any of it and my hands get a little bit of treatment. Think about using this if you have an event coming up it will brighten the appearance of skin in soft nourishing way.  A cult beauty classic must have!!!

Healthy Sexy Hair - Soy Touchable Hairspray 

Have you ever wanted volume and staying power but hate that dry crunchy feeling you get from normal hairspray well this could be for you. Although this Hairspray has been around for a while it has taken me some time to purchase. Think tousled waves that are soft to touch, with argan oil infused in this hairspray you are getting a little treatment each time you use it. The best way to apply?  If you were sporting a sexy beach curled  hair do is to spray about 15 cm away from the mid to end lengths  then lift sections of your hair up and spray near the roots this creates volume and lifts the hair in place.  Alternatively just hold  15cms away  and style as usual. Your hair will hold and it won’t have that typical 80’s hairspray feel. This is a good medium hold spray , if how ever you do want that extra strong hold I suggest use this hair spray first to create the style and slight hold and then quickly spray a extra hold hairspray afterwards for 7 secs to keep everything in place.

If you have any comments or questions about these products or anything else I’ve discussed please free to leave me a comment.

Love

LetsBeFranc

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“Can you see it?”

” See what?”

“You’re dull, lifeless and not soft anymore.”

That’s the conversation I would have with my hair prior to finding  this treatment but this treatment has brought life back to my fine, parched processed hair.

So I think it important to share what I have found to really work in bringing softness back to over processed and dehydrated hair.

Coconut Oil !!!  It should really have its own shelf in the hair section of the supermarket.  Everyone should have this in their bathroom as a hair treatment, it’s cheap, easy to use and works.

Here’s how I use it as a pre shampoo treatment .

What you’ll need:

• Unrefined cold pressed organic coconut oil (I have used refined coconut oil and it doesn’t make my hair feel as soft)  ——>  https://www.melrosehealth.com.au/products/OIL%20073 I  really like this brand  and have been using it for 5 years.
• Hair sectioning clips
• A hair tie
• Plastic bag (optional)
• Towel head wrap (optional) https://www.priceline.com.au/toiletries/bathroom-basics/bath-accessories/plush-hair-turban-1.0-ea

How to apply your pre coconut oil treatment.

1. Section your hair – I find it easier to section it into three parts –  (the back, and two sides) – secure with hair clips
2. Then with clean hands grab a teaspoon of coconut oil and melt it in your hands.
3. Remove a section of hair from the hair clip and spread the oil from the ends of the hair to the mid lengths. ( If your hair is particularly long use 2-3 teaspoons worth of coconut oil and less if it is shorter) Repeat on all sections of the hair.*
4. Then give your scalp a mini one minute massage this is great for circulation and helps with hair growth.
5. Twist hair up into a bun and tie with a hair tie.
6. Leave for a minimum of 1 hour. ♥
7. Wash out by using shampoo on the hair first so it grabs to the excess oil and then add water to wash out. You may need to follow with a second shampoo before using conditioner and a hair masque.
8. Style as usual

*If your hair is extremely dehydrated and has gone through some major colour and heat damage, then apply the coconut oil all the way up to the roots coating the hair thoroughly .

♥ If you decide to leave this in for longer or sleep with it in then wrap a plastic bag around your head and cover with a hair towel. This prevents the oil leaking onto your pillow case and gives you a très chic  look

Keep those naturals oils on your head as long as possible so I recommend only washing your  hair once or twice a week and doing this oil treatment  either every time you wash if your hair is highly dehydrated and processed or once a week if your hair is in a normal to dehydrated condition.

Your hair will feel soft and look shiny, this is probably the best hair treatment that really penetrates the hair and helps the hair  feel soft again. If you want a blend of oils in your hair, then I recommend the Hello Hair Mask http://hellohair.com.au/products/hello-hair-hydrating-mask  they have some great  oils for  your hair  almond , argan, castor and also my favourite coconut oil :).

Let me know if you have any questions or how you have found coconut oil working for you.

Love

LetsBeFranc

It’s what you’ve got and how you use it! 

The amount of cleanser is often overestimated and we end up spending endless amounts of product and money on our faces. Size really matters in this case,  so depending on the type of cleanser you are using, you will either use the size of number 1 or 2. (see diagram)

Gel and oil cleansers tend to spread more easily so less is best (number 1) and cream cleansers may not have as much slip so you need a little extra product (number 2) .

OK so we know quantity matters in this instance but what about quality how do we determine if a cleanser is a good fit for us?

I’ll break it down into types of cleansers – Waters, Oils, Creams and Gels, what you should be looking for and how they should make your skin feel.

• Waters

Generally used to take off makeup, gently removes excess oil and are great for all skin types especially those with sensitised skin conditions. Waters should feel soft and refreshing on the skin but never tight or taught after using them. Some water formulations can have a slight brightening effect. Waters are best used with de makeup pads (cotton pads) rather then cotton balls as you are able to remove more makeup  with less de makeup  pads.

• Oils

These are my favourite  they can be used on all skin types but its a matter of finding out  which one suits you. An oil cleanser should remove make up and excess oil, make the skin feel soft not greasy  and help  conditions not exacerbate them. Many companies use mineral oil in their oil cleansers, the main reasons for this is that mineral oil has a very similar consistency to the skin’s oil, it’s  affordable  and readily available. In the world of cosmetics there are mixed feeling towards using mineral oil but that’s for another post. My verdict: I generally don’t like mineral oil in my oil cleansers but if the cleanser works for you and you are removing it thoroughly then I say go for it.  A small amount (number 1) should be applied on dry skin and gently massaged into the skin (most of these oils can be used around the eyes but always check the label) once your entire face and neck has been covered use a damp warm cloth to remove the oil.

• Creams

They come in variety of textures,  some will be heavy and creamy while others will have a light  lotion consistency. These are generally great for a normal  to dry skin but  you can still use a light lotion cream cleanser for an acneic skin with dehydration. Cream cleansers leave the skin hydrated, soft , clean and supple. They can be used in a variety of ways but generally apply on slightly damp skin in a soft massaging motion. Remove with water or  a damp warm face cloth.

• Gels 

These can be used on any skin type. Gel formulas normally get associated with an oilier skin type but there have  been such advancements and options for great gel cleansers on the market that there’s no reason why any other skin type can’t use them. Gel cleansers should never feel tight or taught, if so it has removed too much of the skin’s protective oil layer. The skin should feel refreshed and hydrated. If you’re on the drier side look for a jelly based cleanser or a cleanser with aloe vera in it to really hydrate the skin. Gel cleansers are generally applied on damp skin massaged to a foamy consistency and washed off, although some gel cleansers http://www.renskincare.com/p/3702/Rosa+Centifolia%E2%84%A2+Cleansing+Gel  are applied on dry skin, water is then added to emulsify the gel cleanser into  a foamy milk before it is washed off.

Size does matter lets be franc

Remember

• For the face and décolletage the type of cleanser determines the amount of cleanser you use (number 1 or 2)

All cleansers no matter the type should make your skin:

• Feel soft and supple
• Remove all traces of make up
• Never make the skin feel tight and taunt

Love

LetsBeFranc

Perfect Fit Foundation

Have you ever bought a pair of jeans that fit just right, that hid all your imperfections and showed off your beautiful derrière? And have you ever bought a pair of jeans that didn’t ? And accentuated all the areas that you didn’t want to be on show? I think we have all had those moments and what we have probably learned from our shopping conquests of finding the perfect jeans is that when we find that pair we stick with that brand and a cut that suits us because it makes us feel and look like a million dollars.

Well foundations are a bit like jeans when they are right they accentuate our skin, or create the illusion of flawless skin and when they are wrong they create a mask like Halloween effect.

Here are some below that I think look beautiful:

Nars Sheer Glow

I love this foundation because it has a high amount of pigment , having a foundation with a  high amount of pigment means you can use less and get more coverage.The finish is like a candle lit glow. This is a really great long-wear foundation and the longer you have it on the better it looks. I love it for going out and weddings because it looks great in real life and in photos (no spf). Great for normal to combination skin types and comes in a variety of colours mainly yellow undertones. If your’re more on the oilier side and still want that natural candle lit glow – try Nars’ new All Day Luminous Matte foundation.

MAC –  Studio Face and Body

This is a cult classic, a fluid like texture with great pigment , it’s a build-able foundation that glides on smoothly. It has a soft dewy glow lit  from within look and I like to mix this with Nars sheer glow at night to give a really creamy soft finish to the skin. I really like to apply this with a duo fibre/ stippling brush. It has a  good colour range and this is definitely a must have for anyone who wants a really versatile foundation that looks natural and dewy without that shiny disco ball look .

Loreal -True Match

I actually only tried this foundation last year but I must say it has a lot of pigment and a lot of staying power, its a great price point for someone who wants that mileage and coverage without breaking the bank. You don’t need a  lot of this to get coverage, I always start off with half a pump and then add more if I need. Great for someone with more of a  combination – normal skin type. It has a natural semi matte finish. Has anyone with oily skin tried this I’d really like to hear your feedback on how it wears ?

BareMinerals – Original  Mineral Powder

I love this for normal to combination skin (there is also a matte powder for oily skin which is great). It gives a soft seamless light weight finish to the skin and it has buildable coverage. The buffing action of the brush smooths on the powder so you have a flawless natural finish. There is good colour selection for most skin tones.  Mineral makeup is a good option for anyone that has sensitive skin.This a great everyday  foundation for a “no makeup” kind of women, also great for daughters.

Giorgio Armani – Luminous Silk Foundation

This is a really popular foundation especially among celebrities  . It gives great coverage , long wear and it’s like sheer glow from nars but a bit more luminous. It’s definitely a foundation that many women fall in love and its easy to see why.

When it comes to your face your foundation should be just like your jeans- the perfect fit.

Let me know your perfect fit foundation in the comments section below.

Love

LetsBeFranc