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The House Rules host shares her complete pre-wedding hair, skin and fitness routine in the lead up to her South Australian wedding to sports broadcaster Ben Way. Abbey Way (or Abbey Gelmi, as she was pre-wedding) is no stranger to the demands […]

Best celebrity hair transformations of 2019

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December 12, 2019

From subtle tweaks to major changes in colour and cut, this year the celebs have taken on some of the greatest styles to date. We all know a hair overhaul can give you a completely different look. Whether you go all-in for […]

My husband threatened to divorce me if I got Botox, and I did it anyway…

Our Blog

December 11, 2019

Digital editor Alison Izzo risks her marriage for the sake of a wrinkle-free face… I’d never thought much about plastic surgery, Botox or filler, oh, um, ever. It seemed the far-off domain of reality TV stars and aging Hollywood stars trying to […]

Abbey Way’s stunning bridal hair

Our Blog

December 10, 2019

Channel Seven’s Abbey Way shares her chic bridal updo on her wedding day.

How a wedding makeup artist prepped for her own wedding

Our Blog

December 9, 2019

Wedding season is fast approaching and it’s safe to say planning your big day brings with it new levels of stress and an endless list of to-dos. So we’re bringing you a bridal beauty breakdown to get you prepped and ready. From […]

Hair steaming is the DIY trick you didn’t know you needed

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December 6, 2019

Get through summer with this step-by-step guide to getting the softest, shiniest hair ever. When it comes to summer we’re all aware of the side effects: dry, dehydrated, lacklustre strands that have been torched from heatwaves, hot tools and swimming. Blondes go […]

The hidden dangers living in your makeup bag will make you scream

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December 5, 2019

Scary new research shows how the cosmetics and tools you use every day could make you really, really sick. When was the last time you cleaned your makeup bag? What about the brushes and sponges inside of it? Or worse yet, when […]

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Scary new research shows how the cosmetics and tools you use every day could make you really, really sick.

When was the last time you cleaned your makeup bag? What about the brushes and sponges inside of it? Or worse yet, when is the last time you bought a fresh mascara? How long have you been using that red lipstick?

Trust me, these questions are relevant and you’re going to want to spring clean your whole kit, and stock up on new product after reading this!

Shocking new research – yes, you read that right: shocking, from Aston University published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology found that more than nine in ten makeup bags are home to deadly superbugs like E.coli (the bad bacteria responsible for food contamination and urinary tract infections) and staphylococci (a potentially deadly bacteria that when infected can cause anything from pretty large skin wounds to food poisoning and toxic shock syndrome).

Sound scary? Well it kind of is. Research also found that beauty blenders came in first place for containing the highest amount of bacteria with 93% NEVER BEING CLEANED even though 64% were dropped on the floor! I am not sorry for the caps. While we’re here may I suggest throwing out your sponge right now and buying a new one, and then investing in this Beautyblender Solid Cleanser ($25, at Sephora).

The reason they’re so frankly; filthy is because they’re often thrown back in a makeup bag or drawer while still damp – which is the perfect climate for nasties to breed. Keep a lid on bacteria with a handy breathable case like MCoBeauty Summer Lovin’ Sponge and Case ($15, at MCoBeauty).

In an ideal world you should be washing your makeup brushes and sponges after every single use. But we get it, who has the time? So dermatologists recommend at least every 7-10 days and make sure they’re able to dry and air out in the light or sun properly.

FYI: Makeup Expires, too

But it’s not just poor hygiene practices that we need to be wary of. Expiration dates and old products can be harmful to our health, too. In the same study researchers tested 467 cosmetics and found that 77% of eyeliners, 69% of mascaras, 56% of lipsticks and 55% of lip glosses all contained dangerous staphylococcus.

This is your friendly reminder to throw out your old product and replace it – especially if you don’t remember when you bought it. Aside from looking on the label, keep this handy so you can check when your kit is passed its use by date:

Eyeliner: If it’s liquid it’s about four to six months, if it’s a pencil it’s up to two years. Had an eye infection or a stye? Throw it out.

Mascara: Three months, and no ifs or buts.

Powder cosmetics: Because there’s no water it’s harder for bacteria to grow which makes powder formulations last longer. Depending on the product and how much you use it you could be looking at two years.

Lipsticks: Between 12 and 18 months. But if you’ve had a cold sore or even a breakout it’s best to replace it.

Foundation: If it’s water-based around 12 months, if it’s oil-based 18 months due to the natural preservative powers.

The Wellness Gift Guide for Your Self-Care Queen

Our Blog

December 4, 2019

Indulge someone special with these luxurious Christmas gift ideas that encourage a dose of R&R. Christmas is the best time of the year, but it’s deciding on gifts that can turn you into a bit of a Grinch. Don’t worry, we understand, […]

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Indulge someone special with these luxurious Christmas gift ideas that encourage a dose of R&R.

Christmas is the best time of the year, but it’s deciding on gifts that can turn you into a bit of a Grinch. Don’t worry, we understand, which is why the body+soul editorial team is presenting you with our ultimate Christmas Gift Guide collection. Whether you’re buying a gift for a family member, friend or colleague, we’ll be sharing the best ideas you need to know about – you might even find a few things to add to your Santa wish list.

This selection of gifts could be our best roundup yet. Who wouldn’t want to indulge someone in a long hot bath, treat them to some quality self-love or surprise them with a voucher for some dedicated ‘me’ time?

What: Victoria + Albert Bath’s Tombolo Rack ($560, at Vanda Baths)

Why: For the person who has everything this bath rack is sure to get a workout. Not only will it encourage more soak time but it’s the perfect platform for reading, wine time and storing essential beauty bits.

What: Amazon Echo Show 5 ($79, at Amazon)

Why: What’s more self-care than watching TV in the bath? Not only does this have expansive stereo sound but it also comes with in-built Alexa so you don’t have to worry about wet fingertips.

What: Cisco & The Sun Tea Pot and Cup (from $45, at Cisco & The Sun)

Why: Hand crafted ceramics made in Bali and Cambodia by local artisans with three selections of mineral-rich clay. These take tea time to a whole new level.

What: Blys Massage Voucher (from $99, at Blys)

Why: The ultimate in massage treatments, this service comes directly to you (or your recipient, ahem) Australia-wide offering qualified and insured therapists. Whether they’re injured, partied a little too hard or need a little extra TLC they’ll thank you for it!

What: Saint Lumi Jade Eye Mask ($140, at Saint Lumi)

Why: This eye mask takes crystal healing to new heights. Made from jade, the cooling, depuffing and lymph stimulating properties work to improve the appearance of dark circles, bags and even headaches. Store it in the fridge for supercharged results.

What: Rose Quartz Crystal Infused Water Bottle ($79.95, at Samson & Charlie)

Why: A crystal-infused water bottle is about as luxe and woo-woo as it gets. This one uses the healing abilities of rose quartz to restore feelings of self-love, friendship and relationships.

What: Aje Logo Classic Double Sided Towel ($115, at Aje)

Why: There’s nothing less chic than lugging the same old ratty towel from yoga to the gym and back again. Thankfully there’s this sophisticated cotton number that’ll make them feel put together and super special.

What: Endota Spa Gift Card (from $25 at, Endota Spa)

Why: Choose a spa treatment you know they’ll love or give them the option of selecting one themselves. From nourishing body wraps to warm jade stone grounding experiences and luxurious hydrating facials, there’s an indulgent self-care experience for everyone.

What: Palm Beach Clove & Sandalwood Deluxe Candle ($99.95, at Palm Beach Collection)

Why: Say what you will about gift-giving candles, the self-care enthused are obsessed for good reason. This gender neutral drop is a heady mix of jasmine, cedarwood and sandalwood and won’t overpower the senses.

This story was brought to you in partnership with the Amazon Echo Show, the best option when it comes to a home hub with a screen.

Collagen, eye cream and layering

Our Blog

December 3, 2019

Dr. Katherine Armour deciphers the skincare facts from skincare fiction. Dr. Katherine Armour is a dermatologist and co-founder of Bespoke Skin Technology who, much like skincare guru Dr. Michele Squire who taught us to put down the magnifying mirror and the importance […]

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Dr. Katherine Armour deciphers the skincare facts from skincare fiction.

Dr. Katherine Armour is a dermatologist and co-founder of Bespoke Skin Technology who, much like skincare guru Dr. Michele Squire who taught us to put down the magnifying mirror and the importance of wearing sunscreen every single day, knows the myths from the misconceptions – as well as what works, and most importantly where to save your money.

#1. Putting collagen on your face doesn’t do anything

Shocked? Don’t be – it makes sense. “Unfortunately, creams formulated with pure collagen can’t live up to their claims,” says Dr Katherine Armour. “The size of the molecule is simply too big to penetrate the epidermis thus too big to get down to the dermis, where you find collagen. Collagen creams are often combined with other key moisturising ingredients like glycerine which leave the skin feeling temporarily plump, and this is where their efficacy ends.”

Dr. Armour suggests swapping collagen creams for high-grade cosmeceutical ingredients instead. “If you are looking for ways to increase the levels of collagen in your skin, you can do this with ingredients that are scientifically proven to do this, like retinoids, niacinamide and ascorbic acid, or with energy-based procedures such as fractionated lasers or radiofrequency,” she explains.

#2. You don’t need an eye cream

You may have heard of this one before, but it’s hard to cut through marketing jargon and sale strategies at the beauty counter so here is it once again. “Most eye creams are actually formulated with the same ingredients as facial moisturisers. There are no special ingredients in eye creams that are specific to the skin around the eyes,” says Dr. Armour. “Yes, the skin around the eyes is thin, but it’s identical to the skin on your cheek under a microscope. One might argue that the thinnest eyelid skin is more susceptible to the sun damage, but ironically, most eye creams don’t contain sunscreen. The main thing with a product that you use around the eyes is to avoid ingredients that may be irritating (such as certain formulations of Vitamins A and C).”

Although there’s no harm in loading up your eyes with hydrating creams, it’s important to remember you don’t need to fork out extra cash on fancy formulas with no scientific backing. Use a multi-tasking face moisturiser packed with anti-ageing ingredients like antioxidants, DNA repair enzymes and essential fatty lipids.

#3. Yes, prevention is better than a cure

Think of skincare as a lifetime investment, the earlier you start taking care of it the better. “There are two types of ageing: intrinsic (physiological factors such as your genes) and extrinsic (external factors such as exposure to UV light, pollution),” explains Dr. Armour.

“By the time wrinkles and volume loss are present, extrinsic factors have likely already done a lot of damage. If you want to prevent the appearance of wrinkles, the three key classes of skincare to focus on are sunscreen, antioxidants and DNA repair enzymes. The potent trio will protect and repair the skin from external environmental aggressors. They can prevent the loss of skin plumping fibres in the dermis, onset of unwanted brown spots, pigmentation and redness that can start as early as our late 20’s if we don’t protect our skin.”

#4. Oily skin types can use oily products

If you’ve got oily skin or an oily t-zone the thought of applying more oil can be daunting. But according to Dr. Armour, the old tale that oil adds more oil is another skincare misconception. “Often oily skin produces more oil as a defence mechanism to balance out the loss of moisture on your skin. By using oil-based products, the oil attracts oil and can dissolve sebum, grease or makeup without stripping the skin of its natural barrier.” So oil up!

#5. Layering products could be the reason your skin is bad

“As a dermatologist, this is an issue I encounter all too often. A patient adopts a routine that, even though the products being used would be effective and probably non-irritating on their own, when layered together they may lead to skin barrier disruption, irritation, and even a condition called perioroficial dermatitis,” explains Dr. Armour. “What is important, is applying the correct ingredients, in the best concentration, in a stable formulation to target your concerns.”

When it comes to skincare, less is more. So start slowly and add or rotate ingredients where necessary.

#6. Drinking water isn’t responsible for your skin’s hydration levels

Even though you should be drinking your eight-plus cups a day, water isn’t actually the best way to hydrate your skin. Instead, you should be looking for topical hydrators. “People always talk about their skin being “dehydrated.”

Medically, we only tend to see these effects on the skin from lack of water in a dire situation such as heat stroke or starvation. In this situation, we do see loss of skin turgor, which needs to be dealt with via rehydration. For the rest of us, when your skin feels dry and rough, reach for your favourite skincare product.”

“Drinking water instead of sugary drinks is ideal to avoid glycation of our skin’s plumping proteins. However, the best way to hydrate your skin is to use a nourishing moisturiser regularly – especially after washing your face and body,” says Dr. Armour.

Steph Claire Smith’s wedding beauty prep is actually pretty low key

Our Blog

December 2, 2019

Every detail of the skincare, hair, fitness and beauty prep that went into fitness influencer Steph Claire Smith’s wedding day, plus the people who helped her pull it together. Wedding season is fast approaching and it’s safe to say planning your big […]

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Every detail of the skincare, hair, fitness and beauty prep that went into fitness influencer Steph Claire Smith’s wedding day, plus the people who helped her pull it together.

Wedding season is fast approaching and it’s safe to say planning your big day brings with it new levels of stress and an endless list of to-dos. So we’re bringing you a bridal beauty breakdown to get you prepped and ready. From on-the-day tricks, to treatments and expert advice we’ve got you covered.

You know her as a model, fitness fanatic and co-founder of Keep It Cleaner, but now Steph Claire Smith has also added wife to her long list of accolades, marrying her partner Josh Miller in a chic celebration last week.

With a gorgeous smile and impossibly radiant complexion, Steph looked every inch herself – carefree, bronzed and glowing, so when we found out her bridal beauty countdown was pretty relatable we were stoked. She had a strong focus on skincare, a little hair upkeep and stuck to her regular fitness and food routine so as to not add extra pressure or take away any of the fun.

We did some digging to find out exactly what went on behind the scenes of her beauty journey and the people who helped her pull it all together.

Skin

In the months leading up to her big day Steph was committed to having great skin, so frequently visited Andrea Moss and the team at Liberty Belle Skin Centre in Melbourne. “I go [there] for all of my treatments. I like to get a Dermasweep every six to eight weeks and kept this up right until the wedding,” she told Vogue. “I was praying for no breakouts pre-wedding, but usually if my diet’s in check and I’m drinking plenty of water and exercising my skin’s pretty good.”

Similar to microdermabrasion, Dermasweep is non-invasive treatment that uses a high powered combination of exfoliation before infusing the skin with nourishing serums and refining acids. The inbuilt vacuum technology works to suck away dirt and impurities while increases blood flow, stimulating collagen and clearing up any congestion. Think of it as a deep clean for your face, with results immediate. Steph paired this with a Pelleve skin tightening treatment three days before the wedding for optimum glow and plumpness.

BODY

Steph knows the importance of a glowy, even complexion – especially before fake tan, so she dropped in to Willow Urban Retreat for their Himalayan Salt Body Scrub ($160 for 60 minutes, at Willow Urban Retreat) the mineral-rich salt and aromatherapy oils work to alleviate fatigue but also helps soften skin for the ultimate blank canvas. She also blocked out the week before the big day to schedule in a facial and fake tan.

HAIR

Steph has been seeing Creative Director of Joey Scandizzo Salon Rachel Vitullo for five years and had her style her hair in a romantic chignon on her big day, too. But like all good things, there was a lot of beauty prep. She told Vogue, “Over the last two years we decided to grow out my hair and stop dyeing it so it could get longer and thicker. I had highlights earlier this year and went in for regular treatments and trims every six weeks leading up to the wedding.”

Diet and exercise

It’s fair to say Steph lives and breathes a well-rounded healthy lifestyle so it should come as no surprise that she doesn’t believe in ‘wed shred’ or depriving yourself. She follows her KIC routine consisting of a mix of running, long walks, HIIT and weight training and eats a balanced diet – that includes cheese, chocolate and a wine in the bath whenever she needed to unwind!

MAKEUP

Her wedding day makeup look was put together by Makeup Artist Monica Gingold. Looking natural with a touch of pink on her cheeks, lips and eyes Steph’s brows and lashes were enhanced ever so slightly and her overall look was timeless, making sure not to take away from the dress or not look like herself.

Similar to her Melbourne Cup look (which we have a sneaky suspicion could have been a trial run) we bet the Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter Foundation ($65, at Charlotte Tilbury), Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation ($99, at Giorgio Armani Beauty), Bondi Sands Glow Lights Highlighter in Pearl ($13.97, at Bondi Sands) was responsible for her bouncy complexion.

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