Seasonal skincare, gorgeous lingerie and jewellery...
VALE STYLE
PONTYCLUN
Smoother lines with Smoothlines
I’m an avid reader of Vale Life and its sister publication City Life and I particularly enjoy the cosmetic features. The reason for this quite simply is that I’m unhappy with the condition of my skin.
I notice that as I get older, wrinkles are becoming more pronounced, as is the amount of discoloration from years of sun damage and many years of taking the contraceptive pill. It was after reading about Beverly and Ian Hodges who run Smoothlines and hearing about the treatments available, that I thought I might book an appointment. I gave Bev a call and we decided to meet up to talk about things further.
I liked Bev right from the start as we just seemed to hit it off, probably because I’m very much a people person and so is she. After Bev scrutinized my skin, she suggested that the best option for me would be the glycolic peel. As I’m meeting people on a daily basis with my job as a training co-ordinator, I was concerned that I’d look like the elephant man post treatment, but Bev assured me that this wouldn’t be the case. She explained that for two weeks prior to the peel, I would need to use a pre peel cleanser twice a day and a moisturiser to prepare my skin. Each treatment is tailor made to the client but Bev said that my first treatment would consist of a 20% glycolic peel for the duration of two minutes and then build from three to five minutes over a course of four to six sessions.
If my skin tolerated more, then the degree of glycolic acid would be increased. Bev assured me that feeling would be that of prickly heat and not the searing pain I was anticipating. I would then be given a post peel cream to take away and it was imperative that I use a sunscreen of at least 30spf. I was to continue using the cleanser and moisturizer throughout the treatment.
When I asked what results I should be anticipating, I was excited to hear that within a few treatments, I should hope to see rejuvenated skin as the peel promises to promote cellular regeneration by boosting collagen regrowth, soften fine lines, slough off dead skin cells, even out pigmentation and all in all a brighter, softer, more youthful look. Happy days!
I met Bev at the clinic and we got to work straight away. Cleansed and ready Bev applied the glycolic formula. I must say it wasn’t the most pleasant experience I’ve encountered but as it only lasted a few minutes, it wasn’t so bad. Bev talked me through the treatment in that calming way that she does which made the process much more tolerable and reassuring. She then applied the post peel cream and then we had a cup of tea.
The immediate results of my first peel were softer, glowing skin that was a bit pinkish in colour. Bev advised me not to wear makeup that evening and to apply the moisturiser before going to bed, the cleanser in the morning and the all important sunscreen.
With two treatments under my belt, I still have a few more to go but I have to say that the results are fabulous. My once pigmented skin now has a more even tone, is softer, brighter, with smaller pores (visibly at least) and my skin looks and feels far healthier. I definitely have more of a glow about me and I’m so glad I took the glycolic plunge. I now fully intend to have regular peels at Smoothlines to keep the signs of ageing at bay.
Beverly Hodges is a registered general nurse and works with her husband Ian, a hospital consultant. Both are based at Kudos Hair and Body Styling Studio in Pontyclun. Tanya Parkhouse Smoothlines have a number of treatments to suit all budgets. Treatments include Mesotherapy rejuvenation, dermal fillers - Juvederm Ultra and Evolence for fine lines wrinkles and lip enhancement and Sculptra for collagen stimulation. For the perfect pre party boost - the ice mask treatment and finally Revitalash, which encourages lash growth. Gift vouchers available.
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BARRY
Luscious lingerie comes to the High Street
Women of Barry have long been crying out for somewhere to stock up on gorgeous lingerie and swimwear. Thankfully, Petticoats in High Street have answered their prayers with a range to die for!
Owner Sharon Hinder opened Petticoats in July 2008 and stocks underwear by Freya, Fantasie (with sizes up to a K cup), Fauve, La Pelle (for the woman with a small back and cup size), Triumph and Sloggi.
Unique to Petticoats and Wales is the sinfully sweet, nursing lingerie by Hot Milk of New Zealand. Now expectant women can look pretty and sexy too!
Customers can also buy a range of nightwear by Triumph and La Pelle, fitted swimwear by Freya and Fantasie and sports bras by Freya, as recommended by This Morning’s resident doctor, Chris Steel.
Soon to be arriving will be new lines from Fauve which will consist of rich colours, perfect for that Christmas gift. Sharon, who offers a fully qualified fitting service, is looking forward to the season ahead. “I am expecting an influx of male customers looking for that perfect gift for the person they love. I am also excited about a new delivery of bridal wear which I’m sure will be a big hit. Petticoats has put the pleasure back into shopping for lingerie.”
Gift vouchers from £10 are available.
Petticoats
74 High Street, Barry
CF62 7DW
01446 743902 |
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PONTYCLUN
Emma-Kate Francis opens new gallery
Top London jeweller Emma-Kate Francis has recently opened her beautiful gallery and workshop just off the Kings Road in Pontcanna, Cardiff.
She creates unique, handmade pieces using silver, gold, platinum, diamonds, semi-precious stones and pearls. Emma-Kate prides herself on transforming her customers ideas into reality, “Part of the fun of getting something made is that you can boast about it!” she exclaimed.
To commission that special piece or to view Emma-Kate’s portfolio of jewellery and silverware visit www.ekfrancis.com
or phone 07947 307119, to make an appointment.
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PORTHCAWL
Custom designed jewellery by Peche
If you’re looking for that special piece of jewellery that’s completely unique then look no further than Peche Jewellery.
Jewellery maker, Emma Roberts, from Porthcawl, created Peche Jewellery after finishing her Comprehensive Jewellery Training at Studio Jewellers in New York. Emma draws on a lot of influences, including the natural beauty of her home country, Wales, and mainly uses sterling and fine silver, gold and precious gem stones in her work.
For your very own custom designed piece, please contact Emma at her studio via email
info@pechejewellery.com www.pechejewellery.com
