Revision Time!
If you’ve got exams coming up we feel your pain. Revision sucks, plain and simple, but we’re hoping to cheer you up and help you along your way to ‘A’ grades. Let’s face it, a few more weeks and you’ll be free from the books all summer, so it’s worth the effort. Read our study plan for revision tips and a few ideas for some treats to keep your motivation up.
Location, location, location…finding the right place to study is crucial. A well-lit and well ventilated room will help you focus. Choose somewhere that you are unlikely to get distracted and do ring the changes, have a few different study spots to help avoid boredom.
Make a plan…make a list of the subjects you have exams in, break that down into topics you know you need to revise and allocate study blocks to the topics over your allocated revision period. Print off your Outlook diary and mark in other commitments, before structuring your days. Once the plan’s been made, stick to it!
Take a break…shorter more frequent breaks are better than longer blocks of uninterrupted study. A quick stretch every 30 minutes will keep you alert and focused.
Little treats…plan in a few treats to help keep your spirits up. Don’t deny yourself your favourite TV, do allow yourself a little something like a new nail polish but avoid wasting hours internet shopping. A good week of study should be rewarded by a trip to the cinema on Saturday and plan something really special for when the exams are over.
Get some fresh air…a walk around the block at lunchtime will really help to clear your mind and re-energise you for an afternoon at your desk. A few deep breaths will send oxygen round the body and help keep you alert.
Eat healthily…keep your energy levels up and your blood sugar levels even by healthy snacking. Avoid crisps, chocolate and sugary drinks and instead stock up on fruit, nuts and wholegrain snacks. If you’re feeling a bit bored or de-motivated, it’s easy to reach for sweet treats but healthy options will give you slow release energy and you won’t pile on the pounds. Make sure you drink plenty of water and steer clear of too much coffee.
Get a buddy…do plan to spend some of your revision time with a study buddy. Choose someone who shares your work ethic and you can share notes, discuss the subjects you’re struggling with and test each other on the answers. Remember revision doesn’t need to be boring, but it does need to be focused.
And don’t let stress related spots get you down. Remember to keep up a good skincare routine and don’t be upset if a few spots break out, exams are stressful and your skin may show the strain. If you follow all the usual skincare rules your skin will soon settle down again:
1. Cleanse twice a day with an antibacterial cleanser
2. Use an exfoliator a few times a week, particularly around areas that blackheads tend to appear – nose and chin for example
3. Dab spots with T-Zone Max Strength Spot Zapping Stick and don’t pick!
Good luck from T-Zone!
Spring trend alert!
We’re soooo over winter and with the clocks going forward next week, spring has officially begun. We can’t think of a better way of greeting the new season than with a round-up of the hottest trends. If you think it’s time to update your look, read on….
The Urban Wave – Louche and loose; soft and sexy waves were seen on the catwalks of Calvin Klein, Givenchy, Giles, Isabel Marant and Theyskens’ Theory. Curls are a key trend for this season so fake it with some hot tongs and a spritz of surf spray.
Navy Blue – blue really IS the new black. The up-to-the-minute smoky eye uses navy shadow, look at the Rodarte, Cavalli and DSquared shows for inspiration.
Wet Look Locks – Slicked back at the roots, fresh from the shower or glistening with product, hair takes on a distinctly wet look this spring. Curls and hair slick with shine made appearances on the runways of Alexander Wang, Alberta Ferretti, Felder Felder and Proenza Shouler. We say get busy with the wet look hair gel!
Rose-Bud Lips – Christopher Kane, Matthew Williamson and Oscar de la Renta sent models down the runway with pretty pink lips with just a hint of gloss. But if you prefer a stronger look, get inspired by the Donna Karen and Christian Dior shows where models rocked a bold red lip.
Adornment – Braids, twists, feathers and pretty clips were used to great effect at the Valentino, Alexander McQueen, Chanel and YSL shows. Use an eclectic mix of clips, butterflies and combs to make this look edgy rather than saccharine sweet. And this trend doesn’t stop with hair, metallic brows, fantasy lashes and even plastic shapes were used to adorn the face too – the only limit is your imagination!
Brights – from pops of neon colour on the nail to candy coloured hair. Green is your go-to-shade for nails and for hair choose streaks as seen at Mulberry, or all over candy shades like at Thakoon. Make Katy Perry your style icon.
Big Blow Dries – Nothing says glamour like a glossy, bouncy blow dry and Versace, DKNY and Anna Sui all sent models out looking like they’d just stepped out of a Manhattan salon. This look is best for thick and naturally curly hair; book yourself a blow dry lesson at your local salon to perfect your technique.
Ponytails – There are so many ways to wear your pony, try it slicked back as seen at Donna Karen, twisted up into a loose bun or loose and simple like the models at Ralph Lauren. This has to be one of the easiest trends to wear this season, but think about the details. Ditch that old hair scrunchy and invest in some invisible elastics.
Cat Eyes – get busy with the eyeliner because sixties inspired looks are back. Bold lashes, loads of mascara, smouldering eyes and cat flicks were seen at Louis Vuitton and Dolce & Gabbana. You’ll need steady hand to create the perfect eye line and for putting on those falsies!
Red Carpet Review
Wow! What can we say; it’s been glamour all the way in February. From the Grammys (go Adele!) to the BRITs, the BAFTAs and to round it off, the daddy of all award ceremonies, the Oscars. If you missed any of the action here is our round up of the winners, the losers and of course who wore what!
The biggest news in tinsel town was of course the ‘outing’ of Angelina’s leg – yes a new star is born and boy is that leg toned! We predict big things for the leg and can’t wait for its screen debut – how could Angelina kept that great talent hidden for so long?
The month kicked off with the Grammy awards – a sombre evening as the guests and performers were stunned by Whitney Houston’s death the night before. Adele and the Foo Fighters stole the show and grabbed most of the awards between them. Whilst Paris Hilton made a boo boo about the name of a band she is collaborating with her on her debut album (purleeeese!). It’s LMFAO not LMAFO Paris!
Back on this side of the pond, us Brits showed we could do red carpet glamour just as well as the Americans with the BAFTA’s. Meryl Streep won best actress for her role as Margaret Thatcher but we think that Miss Piggy on the red carpet stole the show! Yep, dressed by Louis Vuitton, she looked totes-amaze and got up close and personal with all the stars as they arrived.
The BRIT’s saw Jessie J rock a red lace dress and seriously amazing hair and make-up whilst Adele stuck to her trade mark retro look – we heart her flawless skin as much as her amazing talent. Not so much love going out to Rhianna – the metallic dress was one thing but the long gloves left us cold. Well done to Lana del Ray, Adele, Bruno Mars, Coldplay and One Direction for scooping up the big awards.
Then onto the Oscars, on our best dressed list were Cameron Diaz who stuck to her tried and tested formula of nude dress and red lipstick; Gwyneth Patrow looked stunning in white and Leslie Mann’s choice of navy blue Cavalli gown was incredibly chic. We LOVED Emma Stone’s crimson high necked gown and Octavia Spencer worked Hollywood glamour like a pro. Unfortunately, whilst Meryl Streep was deserving of her Best Actress award she lost style points with her gold draped dress and why does Penelope Cruz dress always like some old dowager– lighten up Pen! And as for the guys….well we only have eyes for Brad and George….
There is only so much excitement we can take at T-Zone Towers, we’re grateful February has drawn to a close and we can put away our frocks and rocks until next year. But keep your eyes peeled for next month’s blog as we’ll be rounding up the trends for Spring and Summer. Watch this space….
Have you got the detox blues?
Everyone knows that January is a miserable month, why make it harder by detoxing? Us T-Zoners believe that there is an easier way to come down from the high of the holidays; we call it ‘faux-tox’. Yes, that’s right; it’s a bit like a detox, but a lot nicer. If you want to get glowing in January without getting the detox blues read our five-point-plan!
• Facial massage helps to really deep cleanse skin and get skin glowing. Use your fingers to firmly massage, gently pinch and smooth skin. Work from the centre of the face outwards towards the ear. Move your fingers along the jaw-line and across the forehead too. This helps to shift toxins and get the circulation going. You can use a facial oil but if your skin is oily, just foam up lots of T-Zone Deep Action Foaming Gel Wash and massage whilst you wash your face
• Have lots of baths….bliss….add handfuls of Epsom Salts which are cheap and great for your skin. If you suffer from spots on your back or chest add a few drops of our favourite T-Tree Oil. Whilst you soak enjoy a face mask – did you know that honey is great for getting rid of blackheads? Warm some honey (not too hot!) and smooth it over skin for a few minutes before rinsing off with warm water
• Get creative with water. We all know drinking water is great for our skin….but let’s be honest, it can be quite dull. Try cutting up apple chunks, slices of lemon and cucumber; pop it all in a jug and top up with water. You can add mint too for extra zing!
• Get exercising! No don’t worry we are not about to suggest you become a gym bunny. Just get walking, get off the bus a few stops early, leave your car at home or make sure you get out at lunch time. Getting a pedometer is a great idea….checking how far you have walked can get quite addictive!
• Get come zzzzzz’s. Yep, fill up your hottie, get a good book and snuggle down. Whilst you sleep your body can repair and recharge, and let’s face it, you won’t be missing anything exciting in January so catch up on your beauty sleep!
See you in February!
So you think you know how to party?
Here at T-Zone Towers we love a party and like to think we’ve the best tips in town for having a top night out. Tonight’s the busiest night of the season for office parties….are you ready? Here’s our top 20 party tips….it’s a must-read!
• Think about your feet. Whatever the party, wedges will work best, especially if there is drinking and dancing involved, they are just that little bit more stable than the stiletto heals you might be eying up.
• Cover up. It’s cold outside ladies, a wrap or chic jacket is a party essential….fast forward to the end of the night and you’ll understand what we’re saying.
• Stock up. The fridge that is! We’ll be shopping for healthy juice, something to toast and definitely some bacon so we are all set for the morning after
• Rehydrate. Ok, ok, we don’t want to be a party pooper but alternating an alcoholic drink with a non alcoholic will keep you on the dance floor for longer. Repeat after me…’water is my friend!’
• Shine stopper. Slip some blotting papers into your bag, more effective than powder and they will leave your skin with a fresh yet matt finish.
• Step away from the phone. Drunk dialling is soooo not a good idea.
• Step away from the phone. See above……but remember drunken Twitter and Facebook updates won’t go down well with your boss on Monday morning.
• Prep and prime. Using a face primer underneath your make-up will make it last longer and look fresher
• Bedtime beauty. No matter how late you get home, cleanse your face and remove your make-up. Stock up on eye make-up remover pads and T-Zone Skin Perfect Pore Tightening Cleanser so you can get clean fast.
• Bathing bliss. Epson salts are detoxifying plus they will ease muscles after a night on the dance floor and are great value. Stock up in Boots for morning after baths.
• Sweet scents. Slip a fragrance sample from a magazine into your handbag to freshen up mid way through the night.
• Ditch the fags. Do you really want to stand outside in the cold while your mates are on the dance floor? Nope, we don’t either!
• Nail it. Glam nails are this season’s party essential. Think metallics, nail art or foils!
• Go bare. No one really likes nude tights, instead opt for Sally Hanson Airbrush Legs to even out skin tone and add a touch of colour.
• Subtle scent. Spritz perfume in your hair instead of on your neck for an altogether more subtle approach.
• Spot on. If you can feel the familiar tingle of a spot, don’t touch, instead reach for your spot stick. Keep T-Zone Rapid Action Spot Zapping Stick in the fridge to instantly calm spots.
• Colour pop. If you really want to stand out at the party, wear some colour. Most of us stick to boring black but colour blocking is a big trend this season so don’t be shy!
• Make a statement. But don’t go OTT. Think about making your bag OR your shoes OR your jewellery the star of your outfit. But not all of them!
• Safety first. Save phone numbers for reputable taxi numbers in your phone so you won’t be tempted to get an unlicensed mini cab home. We say don’t risk it; stay safe over the Christmas season.
Have fun!
3…2…1…Party!
We can’t believe it’s nearly December – the year has whizzed by and as far as we’re concerned it’s a slippery slope down to the festive season!
So, with some great parties in the diary we’ve turned our attention to looking fabulous and everyone knows that starts with great skin. So, while we can, we will be drinking lots of water and swapping coffee for herbal teas. And while there is still time to be virtuous, it’s a good idea to up your fruit and veg quota ‘cos we know by the time December comes around we’ll forget about five a day in favour of mini sausage rolls and mince pies!
The next step to gorgeousness is our special three day skin prep routine which will have you glowing and spot free in time for the first big night out. Start the first day with a mini at-home facial…with these steps:
Cleanse your skin thoroughly with T-Zone Deep Action Foaming Gel Wash, carefully massaging the wash over your face in circular motions, working outwards from the chin along the jaw line towards the ear. Work the cleanser up over your face, always working from the centre of the face outwards.
Next steam skin gently over a sink full of hot water, pat skin dry and then press on T-Zone Face or Nose Pore Strips where you see any blackheads and congestion. Trust us, these little strips don’t take any prisoners!! Then finish by applying a light moisturiser if your skin needs it.
On day two, cleanse your skin in the morning as usual, and remember, if you see any spots emerging, don’t touch! Just dab throughout the day with T-Zone Max Strength Spot Zapping Stick. Then in the evening repeat the facial massage cleanse, rinsing skin well with tepid water to finish.
Day three is all about getting your glow on which means a double cleanse and exfoliation. In the evening, start with a light cleanse and then using T-Zone Deep Pore Exfoliating Daily Wash gently exfoliate your skin, focusing on any areas of congestion and along the jaw line. Rinse away any exfoliator with tepid water and then give your skin a quick splash with cold water to finish. Pat dry and ta da! You’ll look gorgeous and glowing – ready to party!!
If you’ve got any skincare tips for the party season don’t forget to share them on our Facebook page!
Winter trend alert!
We love embracing the new season’s trends and this autumn there are some seriously gorgeous looks to try out. Here is our round up of the trends we’ll be rocking over the coming months.
Pony Tails
Sleek, preppy, low slung or loose and sexy, the pony tail is an essential hair accessory for the season. We heart this trend because, with a bit of practice, they are an easy way to wear hair – much more low maintenance than the big blow dries of last winter!
Metallic
Gleaming bronze, shimmery silver and shiny aqua tones are your number one trend for eyes. Go all out for night time glamour and smooth cream shadows across the lid and up to the brow. For day time, tone it down by using a slick of metallic grey or navy. Keep the rest of the face simple, a little black mascara and nude lip gloss will finish the look.
Nude
Less of a trend, more of a look that’s never out of fashion. This requires blemish free skin and careful skin prep. Think concealer rather than all over foundation and contour cheeks with bronze and peachy shades. Keep up with your T-Zone routine to make sure your skin is porefect!
Side partings
If you’re not wearing a pony tail then you need a side parting! Work razor sharp partings and gelled back hair or rough things up with a messy low side part, whatever your style you can work the trend to suit your look. Long wavy hair looks boho sexy with a side parting and you can even style it with a long sloping fringe for a softer look.
Baby doll
This season’s baby doll has a harder edge than summer’s ballerina look. Again, skin is the hero, but keep it matt with a hint of powder. Work eye liner flicks with nude lips and hint of fuchsia pink blush. Don’t forget brows – keep them super groomed and defined to help frame the face.
Looking ahead to Spring/Summer 2012
Looking ahead to S/S 2012
London Fashion Week flew by and whilst the fash pack are still in Milan and looking forward to the Paris shows we can already see some brilliant trends emerging for 2012. Here’s a quick run down on the make-up looks we’ll be trying out next year.
Citrus pop
Coral, lemon yellow and orange lit up the catwalks with a glow of sunshine that made us long for next summer. Citrus colours were seen at Derek Lam and Diane Von Furstenberg. Not to mention the orange eye lids at Jaeger and DKNY, and tangerine lips at Mary Katrantzou. If you’re not feeling confident about this trend you can still work it with lemon yellow nails instead!
Pout Power
Lips got a lot of attention on the runways of Matthew Williamson, Nicole Farhi and Felder Felder to name but a few. The models at cult label Erdem had red wine stained lips whilst Felder Felder went with a softer red which is a sophisticated look for day time.
Good Earth
Neutral make-up got a makeover with lids and lips in matching earth tones. Think honey, coffee, toffee and muted bronze colours. It’s an easy trend to wear now this autumn for fashion junkies who wanna be ahead of the pack. Look at the Sass & Bide and Amanda Wakeley shows for inspiration.
Eye Liner
If you like dramatic eyes Spring Summer 2012 will be your season. From smoky lids to full on futuristic graphic looks, let your imagination run wild. Start by working a clear, strong line close to the lashes against a pale shadow on lids, as seen at Peter Jensen. Matthew Williamson favoured brown liner winged out at the corners whilst models at Mario Schwab wore black liner above and below the top and bottom lash lines. For the brave fashion followers try a more futuristic look seen at Richard Nicol where bars of black liner striped across the optical bone.
Nearly the weekend!
The T-Zone team do love a bank holiday and since this is the last cheeky long weekend ‘till Christmas we’re going to make the most of it!!
There are loads of brilliant things to do this weekend, but in case you’re still undecided here are our top picks and some great tips on what to pack.
Notting Hill Carnival
The most famous August Bank Holiday event of all and it’s a spectacle that you have to visit at least once to experience the excitement and the music. This is Europe’s largest street party with 40 static sound systems, hundreds of Caribbean food stalls and live Calypso, Soco, Steel Pan and Samba music. The Monday mas parade is a dazzling focus with thousands of dancers dressed in colourful costumes that take all year to plan and make. The party continues into the night with clubs across London getting in on the act.
Carnival must have: Slip some hand sanitizer into your hand bag….no explanation needed!!
Edinburgh Fringe Festival
Catch the last few days of the world’s largest arts festival. There’s theatre, comedy, dance, musicals and exhibitions. Check out 13 – The Musical, described as a ‘grown up story about growing up’ or 2011 A Space Oddity which has received rave reviews. There is plenty to see and do in Edinburgh besides the arts schedule and final weekend of the festival will make it a lively place to spend the bank holiday.
Festival must have: bring a map of Edinburgh so you can walk between the different venues and enjoy the city’s beautiful architecture.
Reading Festival
With My Chemical Romance, The Strokes, Pulp, Muse, Elbow, Beady Eye, The Street, The Kills and Pete(r) Doherty this year’s Reading line up is incredible. There are eight states with well over 100 acts so it’s hard to decide on your plan of attack, but you’ll find us glued to main stage on Saturday and Sunday, whilst trying to get over to the NME/Radio 1 stage for The Kills (well Kate Moss might be hanging out with her new husband!).
Reading must have: We’ll be taking T-Zone Pore Perfect Skin Tightening Cleanser, we’re not letting a lack of running water get between us and clean skin!
Manchester Pride
Saturday’s parade kicks off at Deansgate but that’s only a small part of what’s on in Manchester this weekend. Alexandra Burke is performing live on the Sunday, there’s a lifestyle expo, market and the clubs and bars will be bursting with great DJ’s and full on club nights.
Pride must have: Bring a candle to the Monday night vigil to remember those who have lost their life to AIDS. 9pm, Sackville Gardens.
Stay cool in the city heat!
Phew! July has certainly turned up the heat and here at T-Zone HQ we’re all about staying cool. It’s hard to look your best when you’re a bit sticky and your skin is shiny rather than glowing so we’ve put together our ten best tips for staying cool in the city when the heat is on.
Give me tap
- Slake your thirst. There’s nothing worse than being parched on an overheated bus or train so be a sassy summer chick and always have a bottle of water in your bag. Buy one of these bottles from Give Me Tap and you can fill it up for free at a network of shops and cafes. A portion of the profits goes to clean water projects in Africa.
- Layer up. You know the score, when you leave the house in the morning it’s chilly, by lunchtime it’s roasting and by 5pm when you’re leaving work dark clouds have gathered and a pair of flippers seems more appropriate than your raffia wedges. Welcome to the British summer, no wonder we love a cardy!
- Spritz the mist. Facial mists are an instant cool down in a can. We love.
- Personal AC. Spark up your mini fan in a hot tube train stuck in a tunnel between stations and feel the envy radiating off your fellow passengers.
- Cool your wrists. This is the kind of tip your Gran would give you, but bless her, she knows her stuff. Hold the inside of your wrists underneath the cold tap to instantly calm and cool you down.
- Shine control. Sweep a cotton pad soaked in T-Zone Skin Perfect Pore Tightening Cleanser across your forehead, nose and chin to stop shine and instantly freshen up skin. Even better, keep it in the fridge – for instant ahhhhhh!
- Keep it short. The summer working wardrobe is full of potential fashion faux pas. Smart shorts are the answer. Less revealing than a mini and cooler than a trouser suit, tailored shorts tick the smart box but are perfect for the hottest months.
- Stay shady. Forget the song, smart girls stick to the shady side of the street in the height of the day. Save your skin from the damaging UV rays and stay cool into the bargain.
- Travel light. It stands to reason, the heavier your bag, the hotter you’re gonna get. Travel light by choosing a smaller bag and filter out non essential items. No, you really don’t need to lug around your whole make-up collection, pick out the essentials for your day and leave the rest at home. You’ll survive we promise!
- Quick cleanse. If you work and live in the city the summer time can be extra cruel to skin, so don’t wait till bedtime to wash away the grime of the day. When you arrive home hit the bathroom and for a really thorough cleanse first wash with T-Zone Deep Action Foaming Gel Wash and then do a deeper exfoliating cleanse with Fresh Start Exfoliating Daily Wash. Now you’re ready to slip on your jammies and catch up on X Factor.
This month we’re loving…
Free post and packaging at the T-Zone website! Shop ‘till you drop and then use the special promotional code at the checkout – FREEDEL.
Spot the celeb
Emma Watson shone again at the premier of Deathly Hallows Part 2 in Trafalgar Square we loved her Oscar de la Renta gown and it looked even chicer when she slipped on the white Antonio Berardi jacket to keep the chill away.
