Minx
Minx manicures have been around for the past two years, but they are only now known about on a broader scale. A solid film with a heat-activated, adhesive back much like stickers is applied to the nail, lasting for about two weeks. The Californian company's products are designed to stand out - its range features metallics, graphic patterns, neon colors and photo designs - and have thus become a favorite among celebrities.


Detox
So, we have survived the food and drink marathon that is Christmas and I hope you all had a lovely time and I would like to wish you all the very best for 2011.  However, now its time to make our new years resolutions and get back on track to get your new year kick started and be feeling fabulous and refreshed again!!
So to get you started I would like to explain how massage and detox can help your new regime.
In combination with a detox diet, a detoxifying massage can help to purge the body of toxins, helping to promote physical and mental wellbeing.  
If you decide to detox, a massage will be a great way to get maximum results, and with regular sessions you can look forward to a stronger immune system, better circulation and less stress.  Massage of any sort helps perk up the circulation, sending the blood pumping around the body with new vigor, with it go the oxygen and fuel we need to function in the form of nutrients, which are turned into energy once they reach our muscles.  Our organs benefit too, improved blood circulation encourages them to do their best work, particularly those concerned with the elimination of toxins.
Tips for detoxing

• Start each morning with half a lemon squeezed into hot water.
• Drink a minimum 1.5 litres of water by sipping throughout the day.
• Avoid coffee, strong tea and alcohol.
• You should find the urge to comfort-eat is reduced, try to focus on good quality proteins, whole grains, and lots of vegetables and fruits.
• Try to avoid cow's milk products and wheat products.
• Make up a salad dressing with olive oil mixed with balsamic wine vinegar and keep to hand in the fridge, add mustard, herbs or garlic according to taste.
• Avoid butter and margarine - use olive oil for cooking.
• Choose healthy cooking methods - steaming, baking and stir-frying with minimal oil.
• Detox your environment too by clearing away any clutter.  A calming environment will help you to recharge your energy levels.
  

Good luck!

Skin Care is not all about what you put on your skin!
To make or keep your skin beautiful, it's best to work from the inside. Eating the right kind of food can do you more good than any medicine, and go a long way in helping your body's own healing forces. Eat a balanced diet that includes raw foods, plenty of yellow and orange vegetables (they contain beta carotene - a precursor to vitamin A) Foods high in sulfur such as garlic, onions, asparagus and eggs. Include fruits, seeds, grains and nuts.  Drink plenty of water 2-3 liter of water in a day.

My Nails split and peel all the time ~ what can I do?
A very common problem, here are a few of my tips you might find useful
1/ When using a file, it is important to maintain a proper angel.  The file should be held at a 45 degree angle to the bottom side of the nail tip, almost against your finger tip, the top portion of your nail is the toughest and will help to protect against peeling of the weaker layers underneath.
2/  Wear rubber gloves when doing housework or washing up as chemicals and solvents are present in many cleaning products and this can dry out or damage your fingernails leading to peeling.
3/  For strengthening the nails take a calcium supplement or drink fresh carrot juice daily as it is high in calcium and phosphorus.
4/  Moisturise your hands and nails, I know this is not possible every time you wash your hands during the course of a day but leaving a hand cream next to the kitchen sink, in your lounge or next to your bed will give your nails that extra boost.
5/ use a nail replenishing oil such as Avoplex oil which as well as treating the nails and cuticles can be used on your heels and elbows too! see my nail shop for this and other products suitable for Sensitive & peeling nails.