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Beauty Bag DO’s & DON’Ts this Spring
There’s nothing like a good spring clean, but it’s not just your house that may need a good clear out; how long have you had that blue eye shadow in your make-up bag? What about that body lotion lurking in your bathroom? A lot of people keep skincare and makeup way past their use by date but old products are a breeding ground for bacteria which you are then transferring to your skin.
- DO use a marker pen to note the date you’ve open the product. Most skincare products only have the months in which they should be discarded after use rather than an actual date. By noting the date you’ll know when to discard it if left unused.
- DON’T keep make-up or skincare “for best” because there’s a good chance they’ll pass their expiry date before you use them. If you’ve splurged, reap the benefits by using your products regularly and while they’re at their optimum.
- DO wash your hands or use the end of a spoon as a spatula before scooping product out of a jar to prevent the spread of bacteria.
- DON’T use product which has separated, changed colour, changed in smell or has started to irritate your skin; take this as an indication to replace it.
DO follow the life expectancy of cosmetics;
- Mascara – 3 months
- Liquid foundation and concealer – 12-18 months.
- Lipstick and Gloss – 2 years for lipstick and 1 year for gloss. A good sign that a lip product has gone off is that it can leave the lips irritated or tingly.
- Nail Varnish – 2 years. If the product separates and doesn’t combine when you shake it, it’s time to replace it.
- Eye and lip pencils – as these are sharpened you are constantly removing any bacteria so they should last for at least 2 years.
- Powders such as Eyeshadow, Blusher and face powder generally last 2 years, if you notice the product is dryer than it used to be, replace.
- DON’T ignore your make-up brushes; these should be cleaned once a week. I like to clean my foundation brush daily as bacteria can grow quickly.My tip is to clean my foundation brush and an extra brush every time I put my make-up on, which guarantees all the brushes I use are always clean and free from bacteria.
If you’ve bought make-up and skincare within the last 6 months that you don’t like or use, why not have a swapping party with your friends? There’s a good chance they’ve also got recently purchased, unused products in their make-up bag or beauty cabinet.
For any skincare or make-up products or accessories that are in great condition but aren’t being used, why not donate them to this worthy cause?
Highly experienced within the industry, Amanda Elias is the brains behind effective yet affordable skincare brand, Bravura London (www.bravuralondon.com) – a business founded following Amanda’s own skin problems and subsequent discovery of using AHA, BHA and Hydraulic Acid for troubled skins.
Sustainable St Albans is gearing up for its annual Sustainability Festival, SustFest24, from June 7 to 16. This community-led event is packed with activities designed to promote environmental sustainability and inspire positive change. Among the many exciting events this year, the Preloved Charity Fashion Show and Sustainable Style workshop stand out, emphasizing eco-friendly fashion choices.
Preloved Charity Fashion Show
The Preloved Charity Fashion Show will take place on June 7 at the Alban Arena. This fashion show is a unique event that combines style with sustainability, showcasing outfits created entirely from second-hand and upcycled clothing. By highlighting the beauty and creativity that can come from preloved items, the show aims to challenge the fast fashion industry and promote a culture of reuse and recycling. This event not only supports local charities but also demonstrates that sustainable fashion can be both stylish and accessible.
The fashion show will feature local models and designers, bringing a community feel to the runway. Attendees can expect an evening of high fashion, innovative designs, and inspiring stories behind the outfits. Tickets for the event are available for £10 and can be purchased here (Sustainable St Albans) (Sustainable St Albans).
Sustainable Style Workshop
On June 10, the Sustainable Style workshop will provide practical tips for creating a sustainable wardrobe. This interactive session will cover various aspects of eco-friendly fashion, including how to choose sustainable fabrics, the benefits of buying second-hand, and techniques for upcycling old clothes. Participants will learn how to reduce their carbon footprint through mindful fashion choices and sustainable practices.
The workshop will be led by experts in sustainable fashion who will share their insights and experiences. It’s a fantastic opportunity to gain knowledge and skills that can help transform your wardrobe into a more sustainable one. Tickets for the Sustainable Style workshop can be found here (Sustainable St Albans).
The Impact of Fast Fashion
The fast fashion industry is notorious for its significant environmental impact. It is responsible for approximately 10% of global carbon emissions and produces a vast amount of waste, with around 85% of textiles ending up in landfills each year. Fast fashion also consumes massive amounts of water; it takes about 2,700 liters of water to make one cotton shirt, which is equivalent to what one person drinks in two and a half years.
Why Sustainable Fashion Matters
Sustainable fashion aims to minimize the negative environmental and social impacts associated with the fashion industry. By choosing eco-friendly materials, supporting ethical brands, and embracing second-hand shopping, consumers can play a vital role in reducing the demand for fast fashion. Sustainable fashion helps conserve resources, reduce waste, and promote more ethical labor practices.
Join SustFest24
SustFest24 is a perfect platform to learn about and engage in sustainability practices. The Preloved Charity Fashion Show and Sustainable Style workshop are just two of the many events designed to inspire and educate the community. By participating in these events, you can contribute to a more sustainable future and enjoy a variety of activities focused on environmental conservation.
For more information and to view the full schedule of events, visit the Sustainable St Albans website. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of this incredible festival and make a positive impact on the environment.
Mark your calendars and join us in celebrating sustainability with style at SustFest24!
Milton Keynes’ much-anticipated landmark visitor destination, Unity Place, has now opened all of its remaining facilities and is officially fully open. Located directly opposite MK Station Square, Unity Place is more than just a venue; it’s a vibrant community hub set to redefine the urban experience in the heart of the city.
A Culinary Haven: Diverse Dining Options Under One Roof
Unity Place offers an unparalleled shopping and dining experience. At the heart of this destination is the Urban Food Market, featuring an eclectic mix of street food vendors that cater to every palate. Here, you can indulge in rustic Italian delights at Raffaele Pizza, savor Taiwanese rice boxes and bao buns from Bian Dang, or enjoy the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine at Cantina Carnitas. For those seeking an elevated dining experience, Dipna Anand’s Kitchen & Bar is a must-visit. Celebrity chef Dipna Anand brings authentic Punjabi and South Indian cuisine to your table, with signature dishes such as tandoori lamb chops, paneer tikka, and lamb shish.
Convenience Meets Quality: Shopping Essentials at Unity Place
Unity Place isn’t just about food. It’s designed to cater to all your needs under one roof. The Corner Store offers everyday essentials, while Baker’s Room tempts with freshly made bread, pastries, cakes, and coffee. Even grooming is covered, thanks to the high-end barbershop ROK, perfect for a stylish fresh trim.
Work and Play at Unity Place: The Ideal Balance
For those blending work and leisure, Unity Place provides an innovative solution. Partnering with co-working provider x+why, it offers flexible working spaces perfect for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers. The ground floor houses the public Santander Work Café, which includes co-working desks, bookable meeting rooms, and a branch for everyday banking needs. With over 60,000 sq. ft. of contemporary office space, Unity Place ensures a productive environment with breakout spaces, private offices, enterprise suites, and mission rooms.
Sip and Savor at Unity Place: A Destination for Drinks
Unity Place is also a haven for those who enjoy a good drink. The rooftop bar, Unity Sky Lounge, offers stunning panoramic views of the city alongside a fantastic selection of food and beverages. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or starting your evening, this is the perfect spot to relax. Additionally, Dipna Anand’s bar provides a cozy atmosphere for a pre-dinner cocktail or mocktail, while the fully stocked Unity Bar boasts an extensive drinks list to satisfy any preference.
Why Visit Unity Place?
Unity Place is more than just a visitor destination; it’s an experience. Here are a few reasons why you should make it your next stop:
- Variety: With a wide range of dining options, there’s something for everyone.
- Convenience: Everything you need, from food to shopping to workspaces, is available under one roof.
- Community: It’s a vibrant hub that fosters community and connection.
- Quality: High-end amenities ensure a premium experience.
- Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views from the rooftop bar.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Unity Place is set to become a cornerstone of Milton Keynes. Come and experience it for yourself – the future of urban living is here.
