Let your hair down

Feeling ready to enjoy a new ’do? Sam Henry of Shine and Studio May salons reports on the season’s most sophisticated trends.

photo Salina Galvan + supplied

Sam Henry

Coming in hot this winter is the trend towards quiet luxury. Just like the no make-up make-up look, it’s all about hair that appears naturally, effortlessly beautiful. Here are five ways to wear it well.

1. For a soft yet bright lift, consider lightening those baby hairs around your hairline just one or two shades lighter than your natural hair colour, but always remember to keep the health and integrity of your hair in mind – never overprocess!

2. One of the most requested colouring styles in many a salon, balayage isn’t going anywhere, but now there’s a new technique to try – camou-lage.

This creates beautiful dimension in an even more subtle way, without any visible lines. Think shiny, healthy hair with golden tones – buttercream blonde or latte-hued babylights enhancing your natural locks.

3. For the cowgirl copper lovers out there, golden amber is bringing the heat for the chilly season. It’s the perfect tone to complement those with green or blue eyes.

4. A brighter take on the mocha brown look, new-season cappuccino browns blend a warm base with cool caramel babylights.

5. Still high on the hit list for hairstyles is the timeless bob, and there are various interpretations to try. Depending on where your mood takes you as you slide into your stylist’s chair, the bubble bob might take your fancy. It’s still going strong from early 2023, and with the length curving around the chin, it’s full, floaty, bouncy and fun. Meanwhile, the micro bob is the shortest of them all – just brushing the jawline, it’s blunt and edgy. Or perhaps you want to get nostalgic with a ’90s bob, featuring va-va-voom volume and hair blow-dried like you’ve just stepped off a cruise ship.

SHINEHAIRCO.CO.NZ | STUDIOMAY.CO.NZ

Plant life

The Centre for Health’s Dr Anna Rolleston sits down with two of her clients, Carrie and Sarah, to discuss how a plant-based way of eating works for them.

Anna: What’s the deal with plant-based eating, and how does it differ from being vegetarian or vegan?

Carrie: Think of a plant-based diet as a colourful celebration of fruit, veggies, grains, legumes, nuts and seeds – it’s like a garden party on your plate. Unlike vegetarians, who may still eat dairy, and vegans, who steer clear of anything animal-related, even honey, plant-based eaters mostly skip the animal products but might have a ‘cheat day’ here and there for some meaty or sugary indulgence. It’s not about a strict approach – I’ll have up to four eggs a week, for example – it’s about eating mostly plants.

Sarah: For me, it’s 80 percent plants and also about reducing the amount of processed foods and refined sugar I eat. I used cheat days heaps initially but don’t so much now, because my body doesn’t really like that other kai anymore.

Anna: Why do you think people jump on the plant-based bandwagon?

Carrie: For their health and wellbeing. Health perks like controlling cholesterol, shedding a few pounds, and dodging things like heart issues and diabetes are big reasons.

Sarah: Then there’s the eco angle. Plant-based eating is better for the environment, reducing your carbon footprint and saving resources. It feels good to be plant-based if you’re environmentally minded.

Anna: What are the other benefits of eating this way?

Carrie: There are heaps! You get a nutrient boost, improved digestion and I reckon my immune system is way better than it used to be. I know there’s also some research that says it could dial down the risk of certain cancers and add more candles to your birthday cake.

Sarah: I have more energy, my gut isn’t as gurgly, and I feel lighter in my body. I’m not sure it’s all down to the plants, but I feel happier.

Anna: Who do you think is the ideal candidate for trying a plant-based diet?

Carrie: Everyone!

Sarah: Definitely people with health conditions, and athletes too, and if you’re keen to help look after the planet and save some money, then it’s a go for you as well. I think it’s cheaper in the long run, as meat is pretty expensive at the moment.

Anna: Any pro tips for easing into it?

Carrie: Start by swapping a few meals a week with plant-based options. Brush up on your nutrition knowledge to make sure you’re getting all the good stuff like protein and iron, and don’t forget the plant-based remixes of your usual meat dishes – like veggie burgers, or tacos filled with jackfruit.

Sarah: To be honest, just do FastTrack Kai ā Nuku – it’s the easiest way to understand everything and eat yummy food. Getting the whānau on board is a biggie – although if you’re the main cook like me, they just have to eat what you serve!

For more information on adopting a plant-based diet, visit fasttracknz.co.nz

Start anew

Cashmore Clinic’s Leanne Cashmore on a treatment that can help you gain a firmer foundation.

photo Salina Galvan

At the Clinical Aesthetics Symposium I attended in Auckland recently, the talk was firmly focused on skin treatments. There wasn’t a single presentation on botulinum toxin and not much at all about dermal fillers.

So many new and exciting treatments and applications have arrived in New Zealand, making the Australian injectors very envious, as many of them are not yet available there.

Getting things across the line in Australia is more difficult than it is here, so we get to benefit from them a good couple of years before our trans-Tasman counterparts do.

I want to talk about the RF microneedling device that was a hot topic of discussion at the symposium. We’ve had such a device at the Cashmore Clinic for a couple of years now and it’d have to be one of our favourite skin treatments. ‘RF’ stands for ‘radio frequency’.

The treatment is designed to remodel collagen from the inside out and is used for scars, sun damage, wrinkles, stretch marks, pores and improving overall skin quality.

The radio frequency (heat) delivers controlled energy at various depths (via the needles) depending on what we’re treating, to tighten the skin and promote the production of collagen and elastin. It can penetrate deeply to give much better results than your standard needling, which treats only the superficial layers of the skin.

We recommend having RF needling in winter (because avoiding sun exposure is advised post-treatment) and scheduling a series of sessions for optimal results. The treatment takes around an hour. A strong anesthetic cream is applied to the skin and left to take effect, then the needling itself lasts for around 20 minutes. Your skin will be only mildly pink when you leave the clinic, and you can apply make-up and follow your normal routine the next day. Four weeks later, you’ll have a second treatment, then a third treatment a month after that. Three is the minimum we recommend; four to six is even better.

Before and after RF needling.

With RF needling, skin continues to improve for three months after your final treatment. You also have the option to have topical growth factors infused immediately afterwards, such as PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma), where your own blood is separated into red blood cells and plasma, and the plasma (which is full of goodness that further enhances luminosity and improves skin texture) is infused into your skin.

The latest technology to infuse is exosomes. They pack even more of a punch than PRP and are more predictable. Extracted from young human adipose (fat) tissue, this is cutting-edge technology and a good option for hair restoration as well. They’re another whole topic, so I’ll go into it in more detail in a future issue.

People often want a quick fix, like that achieved by botulinum toxin and fillers, but remember, we also need a good canvas to work from. RF needling has limitations. It isn't a face lift, it’s a skin treatment. A full consultation will help us determine if it’s the right procedure for you.

CASHMORECLINIC.CO.NZ

Body in balance

Rotorua’s Polynesian Spa is the perfect place to learn the incredible benefits of calming your mind and healing your body.

Words Hayley Barnett

“Find your dimmer switch,” our mindfulness teacher murmurs soothingly.

Meditation expert and aromatherapist Helena Keenan’s constant calm demeanor is a result of 30 years of meditation practice at some of the Pacific’s most luxurious wellness centres. Right now I’m sitting in the newly refurbished Mahoney Wellness Room at Rotorua’s Polynesian Spa for their Mindful Moments Retreat in the hopes that some of that calmness will rub off on my frazzled, stressed-to-the-hilt self. But finding my inner dimmer switch isn’t something that comes naturally. In fact, at this point, I’m not even sure I have one.

For the past seven years Helena has been guiding visitors through two-day retreats to reset their intentions and commitment to wellness – both mentally and physically – to come away feeling calm, inspired and recharged. Over two days we will bathe in geothermal mineral waters, practise yoga, walk in nature, undergo spa therapies, learn about nutrition and meditate our troubles away. It’s the kind of thing a tired mother can usually only dream of.

When I drag myself in on the first day after a terrible night’s sleep I’m met with the friendly, energetic yoga teacher, Nadine Prinsloo. She introduces the group to simple movements designed to stretch and relax our bodies after a soak in the world-famous geothermal spa. She gives us a rundown on the history of yoga, why we should do it, and what sort of benefits we'll receive from stretching our bodies at least three times a week. We learn how to breathe with our stomachs and how breathing in through one nostril and out the other will instantly calm your nervous system. Nadine has gone through her fair share of body trauma over the years, which is how she got into yoga in the first place, and educates us on how to listen to your body. “If you listen to the body when it whispers, you won’t have to listen to it when it shouts,” she explains wisely. 

Though the yoga session wasn’t at all strenuous, the group had certainly worked up an appetite. Which was just as well considering the enormous lunch laid out for us. The delicious, healthy and balanced meal set us up for our silent trek through Rotorua’s Redwoods forest. 

After an hour of fresh air we were back in time for our talk on maintaining a healthy gut, led by resident naturopath, Jessica Tumata-Lane. The miracles that can happen just by making subtle changes to your diet are not only proven by science, says Jess, but also in the mental clarity and the body’s energy, which you will notice almost immediately. I almost feel bad for the gelato we’ve just consumed from the spa café beforehand.

The next day we’re led directly to the spa for what I thought would be some relaxing R&R. This time, we’re on the retreat side, which of course includes a cold plunge pool. With Nadine’s words ringing in our ears about listening to your body before it shouts, we instead plunge forth and hold ourselves under for what seems like an eternity but is really just 30 seconds. We then run straight into the now-prickly 40-degree Celcius pool to warm up. Apparently this is good for you. 

It’s just as well that our spa treatment is up next. I’ve chosen the spa’s signature Himalayan Salt Polish and Herbal Oil Massage, a treat for my tight muscles and dry winter skin. Then it’s straight into meditation with Helena, where I nearly fall asleep in the middle of the day. This has never happened to me before. I can barely sleep at night.

Our second delicious lunch brings me back to earth, before venturing out for a walk around the geothermal springs of Lake Rotorua. We’re back in time for some blueberry lemon cake with coconut yoghurt before heading home, our gift bags filled to the brim with lotions and potions to keep our skin looking and feeling its best. I can’t think of a better way to rest and recharge, and I’m already planning my trip back to this geothermal healing centre of wellness. The next retreat goes ahead in July 2024 and I'm very tempted. 

What were my greatest takeaways, Helena asks? It’s not until I’m in the car heading home that I can think of this answer clearly. Always take the time to stop and recuperate, even if you don’t feel you need it. It’s not until you stop that you can really hear your body and mind shouting. That’s when you find your dimmer switch. 

polynesianspa.co.nz/mindful-moments-retreat/

Flawless finish

Get wedding-ready with Leanne Cashmore’s

ultimate bridal skin plan.

words HAYLEY BARNETT photos SALINA GALVAN

Weddings are a funny thing. For many brides, when the big day finally rolls around, even the calmest of demeanours has withered away and a main character is left in its place, hellbent on criticising everything around her, mainly herself. I’m not saying it’s right, just accurate.

This is where Leanne Cashmore from Cashmore Clinic comes in. “The last thing you want to worry about on the big day is your skin,” she says wisely. When I rock up to the clinic to ask what she suggests I have done, a mere month out from my wedding, she looks sympathetic. “You should have come to me over a year ago.”

Great. So what can you do just weeks away from your nuptials, to ensure your skin looks 10 times younger and more rejuvenated than ever, even after the hen’s party? “There’s a few elements you want to focus on,” she replies. “How you would like your skin to look on the day, how you want your makeup to sit, and where your skin is starting from.” Then she analysed my maturing skin and made some suggestions. Behold, 40-something brides! Here is your ultimate bridal beauty plan.

Photo Finish

This V2 beauty booster is a combination of hyaluronic acid and Botox which is injected into the superficial layers of your skin to smooth fine lines and minimise the appearance of pores. While it’s not the most relaxing treatment by any stretch of the imagination (the stress ball Leanne passed to me apologetically before we’d even started the treatment really had its work cut out for it), in just a couple of weeks I could already see a huge difference in the appearance of my skin. And on my wedding day, when a friend shot me a dirty look while getting ready, asking, “Why don’t you have any wrinkles?”, I knew it was all worth it.

The best part is that it lasts up to three months. Small lumps can form after the treatment, but are typically gone by the next day, along with any bruising. Admittedly, I did have a few tiny bruises pop up around my face, but I can say, wholeheartedly, that a few tiny bruises are a small price to pay for photo-ready skin.

Dermaplaning

Dermaplaning is the miracle treatment

that turns your skin into a smooth canvas, ensuring makeup sits and stays for much longer than it normally would. It involves removing dead skin and that peachy fuzz, or hair, that covers your face in its annoying, wispy sort of way. This is done using a special surgical-grade blade, resulting in a refined, glowing appearance. Typically you would have this done just one day before the wedding, to get the full effects.

HYDRAFACIAL

In addition to the dermaplaning, Leanne suggests having a hydrafacial treatment the day before the nuptials. This is a non-invasive treatment designed to promote healthy skin and leaves your skin feeling soft, smooth and hydrated, giving you a healthy glow for your big day.

A little redness and tingling goes down in a couple of hours. This treatment is just the relaxing activity you need right before the wedding and, by including a booster and LED treatment, your skin will be primed and ready to party.

Of course, these are the last-minute options. Ideally, what you would normally do in the case of a wedding is lock in a skin membership (like a gym membership) at least a year prior to your nuptials, giving you monthly treatments to ensure your skin is in tip-top condition.

Cashmoreclinic.co.nz

Style status

Break out a new look this autumn.

words Nicky Adams

Morris trousers, $449, Viva skinny rib, $349, katesylvester.co.nz

Throwing shades

Blazers continue to be a cornerstone of pretty much every style. An investment you’ll never regret, a blazer really is the ultimate trans seasonal piece. With everything from cotton bouclé to wool, you’ll find it comes in so many variations of fabric, colour, cut and style that you can load up on them knowing it’s an essential that will always be on point. Another never say die look to carry through the seasons is layering. This translates in multiple ways; a dress layered over another dress or trousers (usually wide leg) will be a firm favourite, and another interpretation that ties in with the 90s looks trending is layering a turtleneck. On its own or under anything, a very fine knit in a super soft yarn will look particularly polished matched with a shirt or tailored suit. For a real statement try a colour lift with your outerwear

Australian cotton split sleeve shirt, $199; mini wool skirt, $229, countryroad.co.nz

Change it up

If you have a corporate lifestyle, then a polished power suit is an autumnal investment – in 2024 it’s going to be hard to get away from the 80s banker trend.
On the bright side, business style dressing has stepped up the elegance factor which makes it altogether more wearable. If you want to take it from the office to beyond, think about minimalist streamlined silhouettes; if a shirt feels too dressy then a buttoned up cardi is one way of opting into the look. Pinstripes have been glammed up and have lost their uptight vibe and are being used in softer shapes for a more feminine, less androgynous feel.  Preppy is very much an autumnal look, not a new one, but slightly reinvented; tiny pleated skirts, open shirt and maybe a sweater – add a tie to bring up to speed. Knitwear is a key part of the season and can be used to really give softness to darker autumnal shades. 

Juliette Hogan Luca dress Lilac Haze, $949

Maximum effect

This season a maxi is a must. A key trend, a full-length skirt or dress has been paired with floor sweeping outerwear for a dramatic and very seasonally appropriate look. Moving on to other more wearable looks off the catwalk that have made their way to the street, the timeline has started to shift from Y2K to the early 2010s, which means peplums, ruffles and high low. If you thought you would never revisit any peplums left in your wardrobe then have another look – it’s a really flattering style with the ability to accentuate the waistline and be forgiving in the stomach area. We’re still loving flower power in the form of embroidery cut outs which really do lend themselves to this textural re-boot; this is a fabulous way to update this classic
one-dimensional pattern. 

Henrik Vibskov Full Bulk Dress $850, theshelteronline.com

Seasonal flare

The femininity of the Fifties era has been revamped and filtered through for autumn/winter. Oversized petticoats and nipped in waists characterise this aesthetic in most people’s minds, and this period is certainly going to have style notes that infiltrate mainstream. The cropped jacket is one such look, pairing particularly well with a wide leg pair of trousers. Another retro feel is the bow, which will be to this autumn what the rosette is to spring. A strong colour will be a beautiful buttermilk yellow, which is trying its hardest to take precedence over pink, which has reigned supreme for so long. Deep burgundy and plums are shades so well suited to this time of year and tend to be flattering to most skin tones – they also make the perfect foil for brighter contrasts. Watch this space for browns across the spectrum starting to become really big news; while brown can be considered humdrum, it’s coming through as anything but dull, so watch for some chocolate delights.

Shop your wardrobe

Assess the old before you add the new.

words Nicky Adams

This phrase is enough to send shivers down the spine of anyone who enjoys the art of bringing their wardrobe up to speed on a seasonal basis. However, the concept of not adding anything new to your collection doesn’t have to mean a veto on all new purchases. What it can imply is simply that by refreshing our memories of what we have, we can better fill the gaps with things we need – or desperately want – but at the same time leaving the way clear to cleverly utilise what we already own.

Organise

Unfortunately, a key part of this process, and one that the more cluttered cupboard owners like myself absolutely dread to be lectured on, is organising your space. Many may remember the world-renowned Japanese queen of clean Marie Kondo, who promoted a frenzied turfing out of anything that didn’t promote ‘joy’ when you looked at it. Incidentally she developed this concept when childless – three kids later she has admitted it’s nigh on impossible to keep to the standards she promoted. Regardless, she does have a point. By going through your wardrobe, you will inevitably find things that are no longer best fitting, tired or you just don’t really like. By culling the dross, you leave more space for the real gems. It’s a proven fact that when we look at excess in our drawers, we tend to just reach for the same items repeatedly. If possible, divide your wardrobe into clear zones, so have the work shirts / pants / skirts
to one side. Other sections could include casual day wear and then eveningwear.

Collate your basics  

Knowing what works for you is not a crime, and it’s not uncommon for people – particularly men – to buy multiple pieces of the same item. Some consider this type of dressing almost like a uniform; Apple billionaire Steve Jobs springs to mind with his simple black turtleneck rolled out on a daily basis. Whilst this
is extreme it may be that your own wardrobe is heavily weighted towards a certain style or colour of shirt, T-shirt, and jumper. To have these fundamental pieces will take the stress out of getting dressed, however it’s more than possible to keep this methodology going, but just throw in one other item in a different colour or cut, to pair up with one of the basics that could give the look a completely different feel. This would then potentially give the uniform basics more versatility and the opportunity to move from day to night, or smart to casual.

Elevate

By identifying game changing pieces amongst your wardrobe, it’s possible to remind yourself where your personal wow lies. It may be that the item speaks to a certain style (boho, minimalist, loud luxury), but whatever it is will be a pointer as to what your new season purchases should be. If you have found that a tailored velvet jacket has been thrashed to pieces but style wise stood the test of time, then this may be the perfect statement piece to reinvest in. Likewise, a maxi dress that makes you feel amazing, that you now feel comfortable dressing down to wear during the day as well as in the evening. This is process is not just about refamiliarising yourself with what you already have, but about successfully planning the new purchases. A very simple form of crop rotation and re-seeding I like to think. 

Dolce & Gabbana

Fashion forecast

Get ahead with the latest trends.

NERDY CHIC

There’s been murmurings of a tie trend since the end of last year, and it looks as though it’s made it from the catwalk to the mainstream. If you like this vibe but feel that it’s too severe for your taste, then play around with the outfit as a whole. Always styled with a shirt, if it’s too stark with monotone, get creative with colours and textures to lift the look. Off the runway it’s edgy rather than librarian.

Miu Miu

GETTING SHORTY

The shortest of shorts are coming our way. When it comes to fashion you can’t reinvent the wheel – but it seems you can walk round in knickers. Over the last couple of years wearing a bra as a top has taken off, so it’s probably no surprise to see knickers having their own moment. Personally, I’m struggling – knickers are knickers are knickers – but this is a catwalk look that A-listers are loving.

Gigi Hadid

TIGHTEN UP

If you thought tights were reserved for the royal family, you’ll find they’re about to be everywhere you look. Possibly the reemergence is practical as much as anything; correlating with the power suit trend and the super short look. From velvet to fishnet to bright and statement making, this is a bold move and needs
to be styled with the right outfit. 

Loewe

SUGARY SWEET

Cold weather wear in pretty pastels is the ultimate way to shake aside the winter blues. If you do opt for this trend then accessorise accordingly; beige boots or lighter coloured footwear, and tonally tied in bags.

A cut above the rest

Meet Sam Henry, UNO’s new haircare expert, here to answer all your burning questions.

Words Hayley Barnett  |  Photos Salina Galvan

Sam Henry knows a thing or two about hair. She’s been in the hairdressing biz for more than 25 years, owns Shine Hair Co in Maungatapu and has just recently opened her gorgeous new salon, Studio May, in Ōmokoroa. 

Aimed at the discerning client who likes to keep on top of their hair game when it comes to style and care, Sam says Studio May aims to provide cutting-edge service in a relaxed, modern environment.

Here, Sam sits down with UNO to provide the answers to all those questions you’ve been dying to ask.

UNO: What’s the best way to restore damaged hair?

Sam: Our hair gets a constant beating from the sun’s UV rays, as well as combing and brushing daily, not to mention colouring and the use of heated tools. It’s no wonder 91 percent of Kiwi women have damaged hair! Unlike skin, our hair cannot repair itself. When the outside layer loses its lipids (the natural protective layer) the cuticle (inside the hair) becomes more exposed, resulting in flyaways and fragile locks. This is sometimes why your colour/toner fades quickly. There's nothing left for the colour to hold on to. You need a product that rebuilds the bonds inside the cortex, along with Omega-9 on the outside, to recreate a protective barrier for the cuticle. This is where you see that healthy shine. Ultimate Repair by Wella Professional smoothes hair and reduces frizz for up to 72 hours.

Do you really need to shampoo twice?

Have you ever shampooed your hair and wondered why it’s not lathering
up much? The first shampoo removes surface dust, dirt, styling product
and sweat. The second shampoo gets right into your hair shaft and deeply cleanses, now that all the build-up has been removed. Always follow through with a conditioner. Squeeze out excess water and apply your conditioner to the length only. For best results, leave on for up to three minutes, then rinse. Remember, shampooing without conditioning is like cleansing your face without moisturising. It’s a no from me!

Why is it so important to use heat protection?

In a nutshell, if heat protection is not used, your colour can “shift”, meaning blonde hair will go brassy and grey hair will go yellow. The cuticle becomes damaged and any weak spots in your hair shaft will break. It doesn’t matter if you’re drying your hair straight from the shower or you’re just doing a touch-up with the straightener – heat protection should be used every time. Wella Luxe Oil Serum is great for medium to thick hair and can be used both to protect it and give it shine. For finer hair, Wella Thermal Image is a light spray, protecting hair from up to 220°C heat. For our blonde babes, the Wella Luxblonde Bi-Phase is
a violet-coloured spray which prevents brassiness, as violet counteracts yellow tones.

Does a cold water rinse really make your hair shinier?

Yes and no. The cold water will smooth down the cuticle of your hair, giving it a glossy, sleek look as opposed to a frizzy, flyaway, dull look. However, your hair has no living cells and doesn’t react to cold or heat. Use serums to hydrate and smooth the cuticle and be sure to gently dry hair with a towel rather than vigorously rubbing it. 

shinehairco.co.nz studiomay.co.nz

Style status

Versatility is key for the wardrobe this season.

Words Nicky Adams

Auguste Lelia maxi dress $299

containboutique.co.nz

Hot stuff

Balancing work and play outfits across the summer months is an annual consideration for most of us as the temperature rises. No one wants to overinvest in office wear, so to find pieces that tick the boxes of appropriate, breathable and stylish can be a challenge.

Gear shift dress $229

georgeedward.co.nz

Sheath dresses just so happen to be on-trend and, with their easy fit, will suit most body shapes. A style that is readily available in linen and cotton, should you opt for a sheer fabric, find a light slip to layer underneath. If it feels too shapeless, then belts are another key trend and one that will add a waistline.

MakJordan stripe blazer $239 and Salma stripe pants $175

urbanvogue.co.nz

An oversized slouchy suit in a light linen with a satin camisole top underneath is super versatile for office or evening – just change up footwear from ballet flats to heels. If you’re feeling brave, an all-white suit comes off as effortlessly elevated – classic monochrome definitely comes under the luxe category.

Beach shirt $385,

Caitlincrisp.com

Laser-cut designs are a thoroughly modern take on a lace look; still conjuring up all the romanticism associated with this finish, a shirt can be put with anything and will pay style dividends.

We know cargo pants are big hitters this season, and they’re coming in multiple fabrics, freeing them up from just streetwear – try styling with kitten heels for the office.

Lilac and purple had a makeover last year, and the softer tones remain a really coveted colour this season. It’s fun to pair the various shades together or, if this is too much, just try a splash among other colourways.

Trending Now

Most wanted this season

Wear It Well

Ultra-feminine and floaty are trends that naturally lend themselves to this time of year; semi-sheer can look sophisticated and polished while still giving off a light and breezy vibe. More timeless than trendy, it can take you from day event to evening occasion seamlessly. Above all, we want our summer outfits to feel effortless – the silhouette of the season is definitely strapless, which works perfectly with the hot weather holy grail of achieving as few tan lines as possible.

Morgan pleat bodice $229 and Morgan pleat skirt $249,

rubynz.com 

The simplicity of style is timeless; however, strapless naturally lends itself to a dressy occasion – and the cleaner the lines, the more you can layer up the accessories. Depending on the fabric (and event), the footwear will follow – cottons and stretch ribbed materials will suit casual slides, jandals or sneakers; and although we love to throw street shoes with everything, satin or shimmery fabric will dazzle with a dressy sandal. It’s fun to signal the frivolity of summer with your colours; vibrant hues are key this season – and if you don’t usually indulge, then try toning down by pairing with a more neutral piece such as jacket.

Riti Dress $529

gregory.net.nz

Whether you love them or loathe them, tailored shorts are here to stay this season; despite being a look that is trickier to carry off, worn with heels, even the haters will be converted to the Bermuda length. Again on the divisive front is a 1980s favourite. If I say bubble hems are back, I’m sure there will be mad scrabbling in the bottom of dress-up boxes. But like any past style, it’s reappeared in a more sophisticated form. Its full, voluminous style requires visual balance from top to toe, but creates a dramatic look that will be a showstopper.

Trelise Cooper Crazy In Love dress $999,

wendysboutique.co.nz

Shapeshifting

Underpin your look for the ultimate outcome.

When it comes to makeovers, the world of shapewear is right up there at the top of the tree. A gradual rebranding over the last 20 years has amped up into full force over the last five, to the point where most women will boast at least one pair of firm flesh-coloured undies in their lingerie collection.

The emphasis has moved from slogans that were enough to make you sweat at the mere thought – “hold-me-ins that don’t let you out” a popular catchphrase that said it all – to a rebranding as empowering underwear essentials that give you a seamless, smooth silhouette. Botox for the body, if you will. Our love affair with silky slip dresses and body-con loungewear has meant that the merits of good solid undies cannot be understated to achieve the ultimate flawless finish. 

Women’s dressing has historically relied on firm foundations, most famously the corset, and while we’ve largely evolved from the belief in blatant restriction, the concept has been taken and transformed into in all manner of variants (that unless you’ve dabbled in this world before, you really would have no idea existed). From the basic seamless slip that will give you line-free curves (some with built-in bra, some designed to go over your own), to a backless bodysuit (a real lifesaver if you want something that gives boob support and smooths over your tummy area) to high-waisted shorts that will smooth the belly, ensure no panty line, and continue over top of legs. There is literally something for every dress, occasion, and body shape. The most well-known of the brands are Spanx in the States, and Nancy Ganz here in New Zealand. Nancy Ganz has been at this game for a long time, which is reflected in the sheer variety on offer, and is easily available (Farmers). Kmart is worth checking out for entry level pieces. However, if you’re happy to shop online the Skims brand from Kim Kardashian has in some ways revolutionised the mass market, so much so that she has just introduced Skims for men – designed to enhance not conceal curves, she has had the forethought to introduce inclusive sizing and diverse shades from beige to brown. The brand has also thrown in a few other innovations – the one-leg undies are a godsend to anyone with a maxi dress with a side split. 

There are other tricks of the trade used to perfect a polished look. Boob Tape is useful, although how effective depends on the size and perkiness of your breasts – “three children” and “boob tape” don’t usually work in the same sentence. Nevertheless, it’s worth a go – double- sided, it sticks to your skin, then onto the dress. Using it is something you want to practise first as it can be as tricky as eating jelly with a fork. However, even if you don’t manage to harness your breasts effectively, it can be super useful for sticking down a gaping décolletage on a plunging dress. 

To achieve the ultimate look, the focus is to avoid anything that makes you feel as though you are being squeezed in. The point of the evolution of shapewear is that it is no longer seen as a tool in flab fighting –anything that claims to eliminate excess flesh totally overlooks the physics of the body. Just like a sausage, if you’re pushing something into a tight skin, the law of science dictates that it must burst out somewhere else, and no one wants spillage over the top of a waistband.
So just like with the external outfit, try, try and try again until you find the under-garment that may not look pretty, but feels fabulous.

Fashion forecast

Get ahead with the latest summer fashion trends.

Louis Vuitton

Mix and Match 

If you thought you’d seen enough rugby shirts after the World Cup to last
a lifetime, then you’re out of luck. The cool crowd have brought back this dad trend as a must-have, and it’s not just for the sideline sports fans: If you’re in any doubt then take note from the coolest of them all, Chloe Sevigny, spotted sporting one in downtown New York.

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Stella McCartney

Tie it up

Sharp suiting – also known as power dressing – is a look that designers have brought to the fore for autumn/winter. This more polished approach to suiting is a throwback to the 1980s, so it’s no surprise to see exaggerated shoulders and sleek silhouettes. Throw in the double-breasted jackets, sartorial use of ties and tailored pinstriped pencil skirt suits and it’s hard not to feel nostalgic.

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Alessandra Rich

Skirting the Issue

Denim skirts have been yanked back from the early noughties and heralded as the denim-to-die-for this season. In all lengths from midi to maxi, there’s a range of colourways and styles with detailing, belts and splits. This is one runway style that translates seamlessly to the wardrobe. For the cooler months and the shorter lengths, pair with long boots underneath for practicality.

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MakeBottega Veneta

Leather looks

Leather has been in every winter wardrobe for a number of years; however, it’s looking to reach its zenith for autumn/winter 23. Never has this medium been used with such breadth – versatility is an understatement. Skirts, shirts, denim-look leather, evening dresses – even socks.

Athlete’s paradise

Pro triathlete Hannah Berry has had a whirlwind year on the world stage. She’s back in the Bay for summer, and loving the lifestyle of her home base.

Words Scott Yeoman | Photos Scott Yeoman + supplied

You can be a full-time professional athlete training and competing on the world stage – jetting off to Australia, Spain, Switzerland, Finland, France, Mexico and Hawaii in the space of six months – and still call this place home.

You can chase your sporting dreams and still spend hot summer afternoons on your favourite Mount Maunganui beach. Swim laps at your local pool, go for picturesque runs around Mauao, and work out in a high-performance gym alongside familiar – and famous – faces.

You can recover from an injury and smash your training goals, and still celebrate at the end of the week by having a glass of wine with your husband at home.

Hannah Berry is proof of all that. She is proof that Mount Maunganui is an athlete’s paradise.

The 33-year-old pro triathlete has had a whirlwind year; from a podium finish at the Ironman Taupō event in March, to a season-stopping stress reaction injury in her femur, to bouncing back and winning gold in Mexico in September, and then a personal best at the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii in October.

Hannah's home for the summer and has a lot of training ahead of her; the 2024 Ironman Pro Series is firmly in her sights.

So, what does a normal day in the Mount look like for a professional triathlete who wants to be able to swim 3.8km, cycle 180km, and run 42.2km in less than eight hours, 53 minutes, and 45 seconds? Hannah starts her day by swimming laps at Baywave (about five or six kilometres worth). She does that five days a week, starting at 5.50am. She might then head home and do three or four hours on the indoor trainer bike in her garage. She also runs three times a week; her favourite route takes her around Mauao.

Then there’s strength and conditioning and gym work at the University of Waikato Adams Centre for High Performance. Hannah trains there at least a couple of times a week. This state-of-the-art facility is situated on the outskirts of Blake Park and has become a one-stop shop for individual athletes and teams preparing for competition at the highest level. The Netherlands women’s football team trained at the Adams Centre during the FIFA World Cup earlier this year, and other recent visitors include the All Blacks, Wallabies, New Zealand Warriors, and the English cricket team.

The centre is also home to both New Zealand rugby sevens teams, the
Bay of Plenty Steamers and Bay of Plenty Volcanix, as well as North Island-based Black Caps, the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic, and the Adams Academy – a development programme with around 100 aspiring and established athletes across 27 sporting codes and counting.

Hannah has been a member of the Adams Academy since its inception and recently won Athlete of the Year at its annual awards. “Being surrounded by other high performance athletes is quite unique,” she says. “And it's really cool to see other athletes here training – there’s motivation everywhere.”

The Adams Centre has a team of strength and conditioning coaches onsite, a dietitian and sports psychologist, and a sports science laboratory with a full array of testing equipment, including an environmental chamber (one of only two in the country) which helps athletes like Hannah prepare for international competitions in varying climates and altitudes.

Hannah will be back competing in Ironman pro events all over the world next year. It’s a remarkable achievement, considering she only started long-distance endurance triathlons about 10 years ago. In fact, that’s when she started competing in any kind of triathlon for the first time.

Hannah believes her late entry into the competitive world of triathlon might actually be an advantage. A lot of the top triathletes have been pouring hours into this individual pursuit since they were teenagers, or even younger. Hannah only played team sports like netball, volleyball, and hockey while growing up in Te Puke. Then she went off to university and studied her way towards a PhD in biotech engineering. She is now Dr Hannah Berry. She only decided to pause that career and chase her triathlon dreams full-time in 2019. 

Her 11th-place finish at the iconic World Championship event in Kona in October was her fourth full-length Ironman. She’s just getting started. “It's a very demanding, time-consuming sport, so I think the fact that I picked it up later in life is quite good,” Hannah says. “I haven't just been this sort of one-dimensional person my entire life and that means, at the moment, it still feels really fresh and exciting. And I'm seeing improvements all the time. So that I think is good and it keeps me going.”

It keeps her swimming, cycling and running, chasing her sporting dreams all over the globe, 226km at a time, with Mount Maunganui as her home base. 

uowadamshpc.co.nz

Sister act

Katie and Charlotte Mead are laser focused on their new venture together.

Words Hayley Barnett | Photos Jahl Marshall

Siblings Katie and Charlotte Mead have never been closer – in both spirit and proximity. Now the two have come together in business too, opening their first store together – The Cosmetic Clinic at Tauranga Crossing.

Having been in the beauty industry for 11 years, Katie’s expertise lies mainly in advanced skin and laser technologies. Katie had previously joined The Cosmetic Clinic as a manager in one of the Auckland clinics seven years ago – the first to open in New Zealand.

It wasn’t long before the beach life beckoned and her and partner, Derek, moved down to the Bay where Katie opened her first Cosmetic Clinic in Bayfair, then a second in Rotorua.

Two kids later, her sister, Charlotte, and partner Calvin, decided their children needed to be around their cousins. “After having my two babies 12 months apart, I needed my sister!” laughs Charlotte. “And as I knew Katie was about to embark on her parenthood journey, she would need me also. Cliché, but it does take a village.” So with two under twos, and partner in tow, Charlotte made the journey down to Tauranga.

Both Katie and Charlotte hail from London, England but have spent over half of their lives in New Zealand, both knowing they’d end up living near the other. Now business partners, the sisters are closer than ever.

Charlotte and Katie opened TCC Tauranga Crossing side by side less than six months ago.

“When the opportunity arose for us to make our way down here, we just wanted to be near Katie and Derek, so we made the jump before the business was a sure thing,” says Charlotte. “Since we moved down here I’ve been managing the Bayfair clinic for Katie after she had her first baby, and that's where I discovered my love for beauty. I would never consider myself a girly girl, but I love skin and cosmetic injectables. That’s how Katie and I realised it would work if we opened one together. And here we are!"

Offering treatments from Dysport (a European version of Botox) and fillers, to laser hair removal and pigmentation treatments and peels, TCC targets a wide range of concerns – aging seemingly their clients’ biggest concern of all. But it’s their safety and professionalism that the sisters are most proud of.

“It's really nice having registered nurses on site,” says Katie. “All of our technicians have at least a level four or five Beauty Therapy diploma. Generally speaking, all of our staff are familiar with working under pressure. And then our entire clinic is overseen by doctors. It's a really safe environment with a lot of protocols in place that we have to adhere to.” 

Charlotte pushes the importance of finding clinics with a strong safety ethos.

“These days anyone can work out of their garage with a laser machine, and it does happen. We're comfortable offering treatments that are advanced and can get results because everything's been tried and tested.”

The Cosmetic Clinic is an Australian company, whose hygiene and safety protocols are among the most stringent in Australasia. Before any treatment launches at the New Zealand clinics, there is a lengthy process of case studies and market research, to ensure each procedure is safely executed. 

“Our point of difference is that we don't sell anything that doesn't work,” says Charlotte. “Everything has an intention. So if it's pigmentation removal that you're
trying to achieve, or hair removal, all of the technology we use is tried and perfected before it's allowed on to the market. So you’re guaranteed a really great result if our clients remain committed.
We also love that our skincare range was created alongside our treatment menu to enhance the results of our treatments. Not to mention they are cruelty free and marine and vegan friendly."

Right now, the sisters are excited about where the industry is heading, with what they call “the clean girl aesthetic” trending across social media.

“The clean movement has got people thinking a bit more about their skin, realising they need to feed and hydrate and care for it,” says Katie. “We were in an era before that, where it was about covering up, whereas now it's about letting your natural skin come through. Of course, you have to take care of your skin if you're going to be comfortable doing that. I just hope it keeps going in that direction.” 

Thecosmeticclinic.co.nz

Tauranga Crossing

Invest in your skin

Cashmore Clinic’s
Leanne Cashmore reminds us that beautiful skin requires commitment
– not a miracle.

It surprises me how many people start their skin journey with botulinum toxin and dermal fillers. Often they want a quick fix, the easiest option, with instant results. If you’re willing to invest that money into injectables, you should be willing to invest it into your skin first. Your skin is an investment, not an expense.

There are so many devices, machines, facials and supplements available to enhance our appearance, which also help our botulinum toxin and fillers last longer and look better. Here are just a few that will get your skin in tip top shape.

SKIN PEN NEEDLING

People get put off this procedure as it involves needles, but the depth is controlled so as to not inflict pain that requires anaesthetic, but deep enough to stimulate collagen and elastin production. It's a slow burner requiring regular treatments to see the long-term results of a firmer, plumper and more hydrated appearance with minimised fine lines, pores and pigmentation. You can buy pre-purchased packages that make it inexpensive and with monthly treatments. 

RADIO FREQUENCY NEEDLING

Radio frequency needling is a medical grade needling experience where you get two treatments in one. Needling creates microscopic wounds in the skin which trigger collagen production. Radio frequency technology is emitted through the needles to penetrate deeper layers of the skin, triggering the skin's natural healing process (this treatment includes numbing cream). The heat has a tightening effect on the skin and can help acne by shrinking the sebaceous gland and reducing oil production in the skin. It’s an FDA-approved treatment and considered gently stimulating and minimally invasive.

FACIALS

The list is endless. These treatments are a relaxing, rejuvenating experience that takes an hour or less and does wonders for your skin.  

Dermaplaning: Removing the fine hair and dead skin cells to help your skin better absorb products, creating a radiant glow and ensuring flawless makeup.

Peels: These are amazing for gentle exfoliation and personally tailored to
suit your skin, whether it’s acne, pigmentation or just general dullness and lacklustre.

Hydrafacial: This amazing machine deep cleanses, exfoliates, and extracts impurities from pores with a painless gentle suction, hydrating the skin with intense moisturisers. The skin looks incredible afterwards, especially when combining treatments with dermaplaning, creating the perfect facial that is amazing before an event.

SUPPLEMENTS

Collagen powders have proved their worth, having a controversial history but recently backed with reinforcing evidence. During treatments, the addition of collagen supplements will aid the healing of the skin. For premium absorption, look for hydrolysed marine collagen, including extras like zinc, keratin, silica and vitamin C to offer more benefits. 

Great skin is in! It takes time and persistence; you will see results and prevent further damage by starting regular tailored treatments. 

Cashmoreclinic.co.nz

Healing hands

Achieving balance and harmony is the main aim at Tauranga’s new Thai Touch.

Words Nicky Adams / Photos Jahl Marshall

Massage has been increasingly incorporated into the mainstream for both physical and mental wellbeing – a holistic approach to wellness, it is undeniably beneficial. I’ve personally been very slow off the starting block – my last massage was in Fiji many years ago and a virtual pummelling left me too winded to ask the lovely lady to ease off the pressure with her very strong hands; I learned part of the process is communicating what works for you.

Booking into the new Thai Touch in Elizabeth Street was quite a different experience, though. From the outset it was consultative, and having opted for a relaxing massage (rather than the popular injury-orientated targeted therapy) I was quick, when asked, to say that my preference was gentle – very gentle – applied pressure. Arriving at the brand-new studio felt almost like a destination spa experience. High ceilings lend a sense of luxury, the décor is authentic without feeling kitsch, and the hush straight away makes you want to melt into your chair. Moving from reception to the treatment area in fresh new slippers, the sparkling cleanliness is apparent, with the rooms an ambient but adjustable temperature, furnished with fresh towels and sheets, and low-level background music. Wanna, my masseuse, was perfection – friendly but so respectful; I felt totally at ease in her company, bonded by a silence that was golden rather than awkward.

Speaking with the owners, Orasa and Nigel, my experience was exactly what they have set out to achieve across each of their three studios (Mount, Bethlehem, and the latest in Tauranga). Orasa herself trained in Thailand at a massage school that taught an art that is over 2000 years old. Steeped in history, Thai massage is characterised by its energizing and vigorous processes. Drawing on ancient practices, massage and herbs are traditionally used for healing by treating muscle problems while clearing energy blockages and restoring balance. Falling into two different camps, one style of Thai massage concentrates on circulation and pressure points – known as a yoga massage. The other variety incorporates herbs by using a compress (or hot herb ball). At Thai Touch the massages follow a standardised process, apart from with the therapeutic massage where the therapist can address specific needs.

Orasa and Nigel have aimed to incorporate many authentic customs into their studios – from the greeting with rehydrating lemon water, to the herbal tea served afterwards. As Nigel points out, “The element of ritual is a key part, even down to the silent prayer, hands together, said at the start by the therapist unbeknownst to the client.” The therapists themselves are all Thai; Orasa and Nigel travel to Orasa’s homeland to interview experienced therapists with multiple years of commercial experience that they feel will fit into their spa family. The community aspect of this is very strong, with both relatives in, and an emotional attachment to Thailand, Orasa and Nigel love that they get to bridge the gap between the two countries and cultures in a positive and constructive way. With a team of 70 (that will rise to 80 over summer) everyone from the 35-40 therapists to the housekeeping staff that make up the whole team, are able to send money back to help their families – many of whom live in rural Thailand.

With the new salon Nigel believes their previous experience has culminated in what I consider to be exceptional premises. I was particularly struck by the high hygiene levels – always a priority for them, post-pandemic these meet stringent standards. Health concerns are taken very seriously (hence the in-house housekeeping for laundry). Indeed, Nigel mentions Bethlehem and the Mount have sterile air going through the air conditioning unit, while in Elizabeth Street fresh air is continuously vented through the building.

Here at Thai Touch, Nigel notes, “Relax and the healing can happen.” The aim was to achieve “a seamless experience – from walking in the front door into a tranquil oasis of relaxation and rejuvenation, with the whole environment a backdrop to a sense of trust in a place that is going to take care of you and your whole being.” From beginning to end there is an air of timelessness – always efficient, but not hurried. Nigel, himself an artist, has incorporated an art gallery to the side of the reception area, which will become a place where people can simply extend their stay in what he sees as a “conversational space.”

It is this strong alignment with the essence of Thai culture that makes the whole process feel so beautifully authentic, to the point where the treatments, in all their wonderful relaxing glory, feel a part of a wider holistic experience. 

thaitouch.co.nz

Spring shred

Quest Nutrition’s top tips to get you back on track and working towards your fitness goals.

Whether you were fortunate enough to travel to the Mediterranean during winter, or found yourself longing for the experience while indulging in comfort foods and you’ve managed to create your very own built-in puffer jacket, Quest Nutrition has top tips for your spring shred.

Getting back on track with your fitness goals after winter can be difficult. Indulgence in comfort foods, sedentary lifestyle, and weight gain during the colder months can create habits that are challenging to break. The cold weather and reduced sunlight, or post-holiday blues can dampen motivation to exercise and make it easier to stay indoors. Mentally transitioning from a relaxed mindset to a disciplined approach takes effort, and rebuilding fitness levels requires patience.

Despite these challenges, taking small steps, setting realistic goals, and maintaining consistency can help overcome them and regain momentum on your fitness quest.

Set clear and realistic goals: Define what you want to achieve during your spring shred. Make sure you set achievable goals, that are measurable, attainable, and relevant. This clarity will guide your efforts and help you stay motivated.

Focus on nutrition: Pay attention to your diet by incorporating a balanced and nutritious eating plan. Include a variety of whole, nutrient-dense foods such as lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. Quest Nutrition offers a range of products that are high in protein and cut sugar and carbs, to complement your nutrition plan and provide convenient options when needed. The new soft and chewy Quest Frosted Cookies are our newest go-to snack at the moment, the perfect example of Quest Nutrition making the foods you love work for you, not against you.

Prioritise protein intake: Protein is important for muscle repair, satiety, and overall health. Make sure to include lean sources of protein in each meal, such as poultry, fish, lean meats, eggs, legumes, and dairy products. Quest protein bars and snacks offer a convenient and delicious way to increase your protein intake when necessary.

Watch portion sizes: Be mindful of portion control to maintain a caloric deficit, which is essential for fat loss. Use measuring tools or follow portion guidelines to avoid overeating.

Incorporate exercise into your routine: Engage in regular physical activity to boost your metabolism and burn calories. Include a combination of cardiovascular exercises (such as jogging, cycling, or swimming) and strength training (using weights or bodyweight exercises) to maximise your results.

Stay hydrated: Hydration is important for overall health and weight management. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support digestion, regulate body temperature, and optimise your workouts.

Prioritise sleep and stress management: Adequate sleep and stress management is crucial for your overall wellbeing and weight management. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night and incorporate stress-reducing activities such as meditation, yoga, or hobbies to your routine.

Track your progress: Keep track of your progress to stay motivated and make adjustments where necessary. Monitor measurements, take progress photos, record your workouts, and note how you feel physically and mentally. Celebrate your achievements along the way to maintain a positive mindset.

Remember, everyone's fitness journey is unique, so listen to your body, make adjustments as needed, and treat yourself to guilt-free Quest Snacks daily for optimum happiness and incredible nutritional benefits.

A fine balance

Holly Brooker from Parenting Place offers a parent’s gentle guide
to reining in screen time. 

While there are real benefits to all those handy screens in our lives (connection with faraway loved ones, online grocery shopping and relatable parenting memes would be my top three), there are also down sides. When screen time isn’t balanced with the other things that make us happy humans (things like exercise, sleep, time outdoors and, most importantly, face-to-face connection), the benefits are overpowered by the negatives.

Recently, the annual Nib Insurance State of the Nation Parenting Survey, which canvasses the issues and concerns of parents around New Zealand, released more research results showing what parents are struggling with the most.  

The results reveal that 70 percent of parents and caregivers are concerned about their kids’ tech use, with 24 percent revealing they are “extremely concerned”. However, two-thirds (66 percent) of us admit we rely on technology as a distraction for children. Easy babysitter, right?

Are we addicted? 

What is interesting about this research is that parents admit lacking discipline when it comes to their own screen time and their inability to model healthy device use. 

In fact, a whopping 50 percent of the parents surveyed said they themselves felt addicted to their devices. I’m sure most of us can relate. We are living and parenting in the thick of a digital era and can feel this constant push and pull as we use tech while also trying to maintain balance for our families.

The family hui 

I’m a big fan of the “family reset”. There can be more buy-in when boundaries are discussed as a family (in a family meeting or hui), and there’s an opportunity for kids to identify the positives and negatives they see from device use and feel heard as they voice their opinions too. Be honest, share your own thoughts and concerns – it’s great to share how too much screen time affects us as adults as well.  

If tech time has crept in as the default activity at your place, you might want to chat with your kids about ideas for offline things to do. Joining your child in these activities can help them transition back into the real world − whether it’s a board game together, a walk to the park to kick a ball, or doing something creative together. 

Walk the talk

The thing is, kids learn by what they see more than what we say. So if we keep harping on about the dangers of screen time but are constantly on our phones ourselves, the message is murky.  

I’ve found that turning notifications off, deleting social media apps and news apps with never-ending feeds, and even using grey scale has helped me rein in my screen use and makes my phone less enticing!

Putting limits in place

Limits are good. While we can’t live in a screen-free bubble, we can put boundaries in place around when, where and for how long our family can use devices. We can also have family limits around what content our kids are consuming.

Every whānau is different and parenting isn’t black and white. How much access to technology you want your kids to have is something you get to decide for your family, and limits might vary according to circumstances or change as your kids get older. 

When we set limits, it can take a bit of work to stick to them and continually reinforce them. Patience and consistency are key here. Kids are wonderfully adaptable – they will adjust to the new framework and find fresh ways to spend their time. They’ll also benefit hugely from the developmental opportunities that time offline can bring.

Trust your own instincts, weigh up the pros and cons, and figure out where your family values lie, then set the limits you want for your family. And apply them to yourself, too.

Then, when all of that hard parenting work is done, sit down with a cuppa to enjoy that gripping show on Netflix you’re hooked on. 

parentingplace.nz

Taking charge

It took a health scare for Scandi Health Coaching owner Sofie Falk to find her true calling – helping other women realise their potential through self-care.

Words Hayley Barnett
Photos Gleeson Royfree

Sofie Falk often thinks about the day she woke up exhausted. Reflecting on the night before, there didn’t seem to be any explanation for the worst fatigue she’d ever felt. She wasn’t hungover, the kids hadn’t kept her up, and she’d gone to sleep at a reasonable hour. 

She dragged herself out of bed and managed to get her kids to daycare and school, but immediately returned home to sleep for six hours.

“When they came home I put them in front of the TV and went back to bed,” she explains. “From then on I started having horrible night sweats, my lymph nodes were swollen all over my body and I had constant migraines.”

The Tauranga mum of three went through the hospital system for a year and a half, having x-rays and ultrasounds and biopsies of her lymph nodes. They were consistently swollen, which indicated that Sofie had chronic inflammation throughout her body.

“After a lot of different tests, I was eventually discharged from hospital
as a ‘diagnostic dilemma’. But I knew there was more to it.”

That was the beginning of Sofie’s foray into the natural therapy world. With a degree in Sports Science, and having worked in areas like human nutrition at The University of Auckland, a lot of holistic treatment was foreign to her, but she also knew there was a chance she could treat whatever it was that she was fighting by changing her lifestyle. She saw a naturopath who advised she cut out caffeine, gluten, dairy and alcohol, and after just a few weeks she noticed a massive difference. Her migraines had disappeared, she started sleeping well and the swelling in her lymph nodes dramatically improved.

“I felt like I'd got back to myself. I started wondering how many other people were out there suffering and thinking it’s just mum life or some horrible illness they can’t shake.”

Blessed with newfound energy and vitality, Sofie decided to upskill by doing a health coaching course, to find out about the latest research in holistic medicine and nutrition. “I found my calling,” she says. “I needed to work with women, to help them become the women they know they can be.”

From there, Scandi Health Coaching was born, and soon Sofie was organising health retreats. She had been to a few herself in the past and knew there was a gap in the market for something low-key, affordable and less, well, hippie.

“The retreats I’d been to were expensive and they were the kinds of places that make you sit around a campfire burning up your notes,” she laughs. “I wanted a normal one, where you can opt in or out of anything and just have time to yourself. I wanted to offer women a quiet space to notice what we need to notice.”

The last retreat featured vegan chef Mila Arena of delivery service V On Wheels, as well as Encore Pilates owner Fanny Peters and yoga teacher Estelle Harman, all known experts in their fields. The retreat offered yoga, breathwork and pilates, with massage, reiki and beauty treatments as added extras.

Coming up on her fourth retreat in October, Sofie dreams of taking groups of women to the Cook Islands and Australia. Right now, they’re being held closer to home, like Paradise Valley in Rotorua.  

“I grew up in Sweden and it was normal for people to attend retreats regularly,” explains Sofie. “I want my retreats to be for the everyday woman. Why can’t we all go somewhere exotic on our own or with a friend for a week, to recharge?” For now, Sofie is focussing on balancing work with family life, keeping her revitalised sense of self well nourished.
“I don’t want to tip over into burnout. The demand is there so I’ll carry on offering it, but I might have to hire a bigger team at some point!” 

Scandi.co.nz

Style status

Spring into action with trans-seasonal pieces

Words Nicky Adams

Augustine Ezra Skirt $159.99, Betty Blazer, $199.99, AND Kesha top, $139.99, all from Augustine.co.nz

READ THE ROOM

Again and again the same phrase is being reiterated – timeless rather than trendy; reimagining and repurposing classics with sensitivity to the economic climate. Staples should make up around 70 percent of your wardrobe and be trans-seasonal. If you update with one basic, make it utility wear – a pair of cargo pants, jacket or dress. Rather than the shapeless low-rise trousers of Y2K, this time cargos are tailored, and utility wear boasts well-placed pockets and comes in a range of colours and fabrics. Trousers are a solid staple this season; along with
ultra-baggy styles, straight leg (both jeans and tailored) are a great investment.

Unisex ACW X TBL Hunting Parka, $1,500 from timberland.co.nz

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Xander tailored pant, $159 from iloveugly.co.nz

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PUMA Cali Court sneakers, $160 from nz.puma.com

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RETRO CHIC

Great for the office, casual or event wear is the spring staple of florals, and jewel tones give a fresh perspective. Tweed is strong this season and along with the classic jacket, there are sheath dresses and two-piece combos. Meanwhile the white sneaker trend has morphed into subcategories. Celebs have been seen in Adidas Originals which look great with wide-leg pants. Elevated sports luxe tends to be understated and easy to pair with anything, while the closest to a “trainer” often introduces colour while giving a 90s vibe (the Asics Gel Kayano celebrated its 30th anniversary with a new release). These are best paired with oversized blazers and baggy jeans, not dresses.

Trelise Cooper At A Cinch Dress, $899 from wendysboutique.co.nz

Asics Gel Kayano Legacy, $340 from asics.com/nz/en-nz 

Twist detail halterneck jumpsuit, $215 from Cos, Commercial Bay, Auckland 

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TRENDING NOW

Most wanted this season

BRIGHT, SUNSHINY DAYS

As the weather starts lifting, why not lean into glamour with something elegant or slinky. Corset styles are here to stay, and have been worked into patterned and floral dresses, giving off a vintage rather than bedroom feel. If you gravitate more towards easy to wear, easy to care, then a strapless silhouette is a key look, whether in maxi or mini length. Again, there’s that 90s minimalism prevalent in the aesthetic, but stretch fabrics have come a long way in that time, so comfort is a bonus. Necklines have been a focus for summer styles, with delicate shoulder reveals and halter necklines big news, whether in tops or incorporated into all-in-ones. Spring pastels are a tried and tested seasonal win. While barely there hues of baby pinks, blues, lavender and sunshine-yellow may feel like a cliché, they just look so good as the weather brightens.

Knewe Dakota Dress, $229 from street2surf.co.nz 

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L’idee Vacances top, $262 & skirt, $239 from superette.co.nz

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Venice Shoes, $319 from nicolerebstock.com

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Simply Italian Wreath Earrings, $244 from tillyandtiffen.co.nz

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FESTVAL FEVER

If concert wear is front and centre, you’ll know that the bigger the star, the more themed the ensemble. While festival fashion has always been a thing (think Coachella, as much a fashion statement as an event, or Glastonbury grunge aesthetic), it seems themed threads have gone mainstream – so much so that some websites (ASOS, One Teaspoon) devote sections to concert looks. Cowboy boots will forever be synonymous with boho, as chic with shorts as with sequins; the Taylor Swift Eras tour has made fringed outerwear a must-have. Check out party dresses that can be paired with sneakers as well as heels – comfort is key! The concert must-have of 2023 is the perspex bag; rather than just another revival of a 90s look, its high visibility ticks all the security boxes.

Self Portrait Gold Sequin Mini Skirt, $589 from superette.co.nz

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All Star Hand Embellished Leather Jacket, $780 from oneteaspoon.com.au 

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Aviator sunglasses, $39.99 from

wild-kiwi.co.nz 

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Golden Emboss Glamour shoes, $219 from minx.co.nz

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Celestial Rose Long-sleeved Top, $109 from oneteaspoon.com.au

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Mini Slouch handbag, $380 from helenmiller.co.nz 

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WHAT TO WEAR

How to tackle a dress code. 

Event wear dressing goes hand in hand with several “in a perfect world” prerequisites. Ideally, the outfit will be unique enough that you don’t arrive and find you’re twinning with anyone else; the ensemble will be crease-proof – and sweat-proof – enough to survive the day and, of course, it goes without saying that you feel like the very best version of yourself when you rock up to the do.

Depending on your relationship with fashion, the chance to go all out for an event, whether it be the races, a wedding or a formal evening, can either get the adrenalin pumping through exhilaration or sheer terror. You may have more than one date in your diary, but lots of events doesn’t have to mean lots of looks. Going to the races calls for something on the classic and conservative side (go easy on the cut-outs, sheer and above-the-knee) as does a wedding, so it’s possible there could be crossover for these events. Equally, for a cocktail or a black-tie event, one outfit could serve both purposes. Change up the accessories, jackets and hair and no-one need know. 

If you want to guarantee a unique look then shopping for vintage is fun, but if you’re buying unseen then it’s worth remembering sizing has changed over the years; a dress from the 70s will size smaller than present day. Renting occasionwear is increasingly popular and is a great way to source a label you might not find locally. Australasia has some phenomenal boutique designers; the smaller the run rate, the better your chance of being a standout.

Decoding the invitation

Navigating a dress-code can sometimes feel dicey, but it doesn’t need to be:

Smart/casual – dress up a little and break out that elevated look that’s just a smidge too smart for a dinner date. Preferably not jeans (unless they’re dark denim and you might get away with it) paired with a chic top for women or collared shirt for men rather than a tee, and heels or dress shoes as opposed to trainers.

Cocktail – bring on the satin, silks, velvets... A cocktail dress is traditionally thought of as around knee-length, although maxi is equally on point. For men, suits (with shirt and tie), usually dark in shade but if it’s a daytime event, light colours can be cool. 

Black tie – gown or cocktail dress, go big or go home. Elevate your look with accessories, evening bags, jewellery, shoes. Tuxedo for men with bow tie.

White tie – this is top tier, so if you’ve been invited to an event like this, it’s unlikely you need advice! On the off-chance you do, then floor length gown terrain, tails for men – and white gloves all around.

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Key looks for event wear spring 2023

Orange has been noted as a number one wedding guest colour this season, while green, brown and navy are also topping colour charts. Along with longer hemlines, cocktail, boho and western looks. High/low hemlines, tulle and ruffles. Elevated fringe.

Inside scoop

For women:

“The biggest trends we’re seeing are lots of bright colours and beautiful prints which Trelise Cooper does so well; we’re also seeing florals coming from our European labels.” The team at Wendy’s Boutique

For men: 

“Shades coming through are rich dark greens, with complementary brown/tan buttons and contrasting stitch on jackets. White or black shirts with subtle textures look sharp worn underneath.” Jason Dovey, Bond & Co.

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FASHION FORECAST

Get ahead with the latest summer fashion trends.

Seeing Red

For those desperately trying to balance out the shades of pink that are everywhere this spring, then throw in some red. A colour that is not only strong for summer, but one that is dominating the colour wheel for next autumn, it’s being showcased as head to toe rather than just accents. If you want to get ahead of the curve, this is one way to do it. 

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Wrapped Up

Never far away from the top trends, the bow is back this summer. On skirts, dresses and blouses – whimsical and romantic, for 2023, the bigger the bow the better. Oversized makes for a statement, and whether
on the shoulder as a strap detail, or added as a three-dimensional embellishment, the feminine look is a hit. If this is too much, then the easiest way to wear a bow is a loosely tied pussybow blouse.

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Water Works

Summer resort trend is all about the mermaid inspiration – ranging from
a sprinkling of ocean to full- on Ariel under the sea. A body-skimming gown with a fishtail skirt is an obvious interpretation, along with pearl jewellery, crochet separates and sequin column dresses. If sequins feel like they’ve supersized, that’s because they have. Outfits are bedecked with lots of the larger scale-like sequins – paillettes. Sealike shades bring the look into force, with aqua, cerulean and cobalt colourways. 

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Pep Talk

If you’ve started noticing a resurgence of the peplum trend, you’d be right – and by summer it will be in full force. Generally a more structured look that in itself can be divisive, historically it has played into tailoring; however with its summer ’23 reboot it’s being incorporated not just into dresses but also jackets and tops, while being softened into almost a frill
in some cases.

Pause, Relax, Unwind

As we shrug off winter and look to set new health and wellness goals, the answer to lowering your stress levels and feeling better could be closer to home than you think.

Bay of Plenty is renowned for epic beaches, surf and sunshine but the variety of wellness activities on offer here has exploded post-pandemic. Soothing our minds and recharging our bodies is now a legitimate priority and there are some heavenly ways to do just that in our own backyard.

STEAM

Release physical, mental and emotional stress with The Sauna Project at the Mount or Waihī Beach. Heat up inside their traditional wood fired sauna followed by a cold ocean plunge. Known as “contrast therapy”, exposing your body to temperature extremes is a renowned way to promote healing, reduce pain and enhance your overall wellbeing. 

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SOAK

Try float therapy at Zen Float Spa. Their quiet pods of high-density saltwater remove gravity from the equation so you can completely escape from life’s many distractions. Fernland Spa and Ōropi Hot Pools provide a tranquil setting to let go of daily stress, or book a massage at one of the many beauty spas or massage therapy clinics across the Bay. 

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MOVE

Outdoor activities help promote mindfulness and improve your mental wellbeing. Mauao Adventures offer stand up paddleboard (SUP) sessions so you can admire both our moana (sea) and whenua (land). Or book a surfing lesson and experience the rush of riding our ocean’s waves.

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STRETCH 

Yoga and Pilates are long-recognised for their enormous physical and mental health benefits. Improve your strength and stability while releasing a rush of endorphins. Classes are available everywhere and are suitable for all ages and experience levels. Pilates can be done on reformer machines for extra resistance or just by using your own body weight. Enjoy a yoga session with Miriama at Waihī Beach or try a “Breathwork with Camilla” class for something a bit different.

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CONNECT

We are surrounded by nature but often forget to fully appreciate it. Reconnect with the outdoors by playing a game of disc golf at McLaren Falls Park or take a stroll along our extended beachside boardwalks. Go for a hike through Pāpāmoa Hills Regional Park or explore native forests and spot a real life kiwi in the Eastern Bay with Ōmataroa Eco Tours. 

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PAUSE
Italians celebrate “dolce far niente” – the “sweetness of doing nothing”.
We can probably all agree that slowing down and enjoying the simple things in life is a great idea. Sit on the beach, walk through a park, enjoy a delicious smoothie at your local café, or pay your local coffee cart a visit. Find time to do nothing and you’ll be happier for it! 

Fighting fit

Rachael Ferguson’s stage four cancer diagnosis was a stark reminder that health really is our wealth

Photos Tim Ingle + supplied

When Rachael Ferguson was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer no one was more shocked than the former competitive bodybuilder herself. At just 32 years old, Rachael was the picture of health.

“I’d just got back into training,” explains Rachael. “I had been a member of Clubfit Baywave for five years and did a bit of running, too.”

At the time she was feeling a bit more fatigued than normal. Having just got married, Rachael put her tiredness down to the stress of the wedding and all the COVID-19 lockdowns that came afterwards.

Rachael and her husband Glen were planning to have a baby in the near future so she visited her doctor, to make sure she had nothing to worry about.

“Hand on heart, if we weren't planning to have a baby, I probably wouldn’t have made that call,” admits Rachael. “Had I not gone, it’d be a different picture for me today.”

After her diagnosis she had what is called definitive surgery treatment
– surgery on a sufficient margin of tissue. Her margins returned clear, but she still had to undergo chemotherapy, to catch any rogue cells.

Twelve rounds of chemo later, Rachael is thankfully one of the lucky few to survive stage four cancer. 

“My treatment took place over six months, with one every fortnight.
I just kept an open mind every time and didn't fixate on side effects.
Plus I worked out the whole way through.”

Her doctors recommended she continue her fitness regime as best she could.

“I was told it’s really important to replenish your body after chemo, because it absolutely knocks you. Exercise can be the last thing you want to do and often I'd feel average for a couple of days after treatment,
but as soon as I would start to feel okay, I’d either be out going for a walk or back in the gym.”

Rachael continued training at Clubfit throughout, allowing her to still attend her favourite classes of Body Step and Body Pump.

“Everyone at Clubfit was so great,” says Rachael. “They knew what I was going through and where I was at. It’s always been such a nice community to be a part of. There's no judgement and there’s so much support for everybody, which you don't often find in a gym.” 

Just six weeks after her last round of chemo, Rachael fell pregnant with her son, George. These days, with George having just turned one, Rachael still makes sure she prioritises fitness. She goes to Clubfit classes twice during the week and once on the weekend when George is at his swimming lesson at Baywave below the gym.

“I really believe being healthy and fit played a huge part in me fighting
the cancer the way I did,” says Rachael. “Everyone knows what the gym means to me now. It’s more than just staying in shape. A lot of women believe that once they become a mother their needs don't matter anymore, but you can't be your best if you're not feeling right. In many ways, looking after yourself is the most important thing.” 

Clubfit.co.nz

Trust your gut

Centre For Health’s Anna Rolleston takes a deep dive into the fascinating microscopic world of inflammation and how it can influence both our mental and physical wellbeing. 

Photo Jahl Marshall

Understanding inflammation is incredibly important for health and wellbeing. Inflammation is a natural response that helps our bodies heal and fight off infections. When we cut our finger or catch a cold, inflammation kicks in and our immune system sends an army of cells to the affected area to promote healing. However, when inflammation is prolonged or spreads throughout the body, it can contribute to a range of health issues and disrupt the delicate balance that keeps us well.

First, let's talk about physical health. Chronic inflammation has been linked to numerous conditions like heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and even cancer. It's like a low-grade fire that smoulders inside our bodies, leading to tissue damage and impairing the normal functioning of many organs. Inflammation is the beginning of almost all disease processes, so any actions to reduce inflammation will be beneficial for our overall health.

Inflammation plays a role in our mental and emotional health as well. Research has shown that chronic inflammation can disrupt the delicate balance of neurotransmitters in our brain, leading to symptoms of anxiety and depression. In fact, individuals with chronic inflammation are more likely to experience mood disorders. 

It is our gut that plays a crucial role when it comes to inflammation and mental health. The gut and the brain are intimately connected through a complex communication network called the gut-brain axis. This bidirectional communication influences our mood, emotions, and cognitive function. Inflammation disrupts this connection.

The gut is home to trillions of microorganisms collectively known as the microbiome. This bustling community not only aids in digestion but also plays a crucial role in regulating our immune system. When inflammation occurs, it can upset the balance of the microbiome, leading to a condition called dysbiosis. Dysbiosis can further perpetuate inflammation, creating a vicious cycle.

That's where adopting plant-based foods can be a game-changer. Plant-based foods are packed with essential nutrients, fibre, and antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory properties. Fruits and vegetables, in particular, are nutritional powerhouses that contain a wide array of vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals. These plant compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, helping to calm the flames of inflammation within our bodies. Moreover, the fibre in plant-based foods acts as a prebiotic, providing nourishment to the beneficial bacteria in our gut, promoting a diverse and thriving microbiome.

A plant-based way of eating is generally lower in saturated fats and high in healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, further supporting our overall health. Adding fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi and yoghurt contributes to boosting the quantity and quality of the organisms in our gut, especially if consumed daily. By shifting our focus to plant-based meals, we not only reduce our intake of potentially inflammatory foods like processed meats and high-sugar snacks but also increase our consumption of foods that actively fight inflammation. That is most definitely a win-win situation!

Adopting a plant-based approach doesn't mean totally giving up all animal products. It's about making gradual changes and incorporating more plant foods into meals. Start by incorporating more colour into salads and stir-fries, making the vegetable component of your plate the largest part and trying plant-based proteins like beans, lentils, and tofu. It's a journey of exploring new flavours and discovering the incredible variety of plant-based foods available to us.

By nourishing our bodies with a plant-based diet, we can help tame inflammation, support our gut health, and boost our overall well-being. It's not just about what we eliminate from our plates but also about the vibrant, nourishing foods we add. Celebrate the power of plants and embrace a healthier, inflammation-free life! 

fasttracknz.co.nz

Plump and smooth

Local beauty expert Leanne Cashmore from Cashmore Clinic reveals all you need to know about Botox and fillers.

After years of administering injectables, I’m surprised how many people still don’t know the difference between botox and fillers. Firstly, Botox® is a brand name. Other brand names that are widely used in New Zealand are Dysport®, Xeomin® and Neuronox®. They all fall under the umbrella of neuromodulators (muscle relaxants). 

But what is a neuromodulator? A neuromodulator is a tiny protein that blocks the communication between a nerve and muscle cells. As a result the muscle cannot move. Don’t get too fixated about what brand to use – so long as you are going to a reputable clinic, you are in safe hands. The baseline ingredient (botulinum Type A toxin) is the same. The difference is their molecular makeup, but essentially they all achieve the same result. 

Muscle relaxants are used to temporarily stop an expression that is causing the creases you want to get rid of: frowning, squinting, raising your eyebrows, pursing lips (also known as dynamic expressions). Once the expression is halted through a muscle relaxant, the creases soften.
It is also used for jaw clenching (TMJ) and excessive sweating (hyperhydrosis). Neuromodulators have been used in the medical field for all sorts of conditions outside of beautification. 

Now to understand more about dermal fillers. One example is Restylane®, but there are too many on the market to name them all. As an overall statement, they are used to add volume to an area that has lost volume, to lift the skin, lips, cheeks, chin, jaw, fine lines. The product is made up of a substance called hyaluronic acid that is already found naturally throughout our body. Our bodies produce less of this as we age. Once it is injected under the skin, the hyaluronic acid works by attracting water to the area, which causes the skin to plump out the wrinkles, hollows and folds. This can last a lot longer than neuromodulators – up to 18 months.

Both products work well together. Though there is only so much we can do with neuromodulators, it is becoming very popular to use as a preventative. But once we get to a certain age, losing volume in our face and elasticity in our skin is inevitable and dermal fillers and skin boosters, such as Profhilo®, are the best ways to improve this.

Don’t let the fear of needles get to you. It’s quick, easy and relatively painless. We can use anaesthetic creams to make it easier.  The amount of people who say I wish I had done this sooner is far too common.

If you do choose either, or both, I recommend you go with someone
who has experience. We are regulated in this country so only medical professionals can inject. I myself have worked in a private practice dermatology clinic for nearly 21 years. This was after completing an 18-month internship at Tauranga Hospital shortly after graduating from nursing.

While working in dermatology, I specialised in appearance medicine.
Here I learned about injectables and everything about skin, skincare, and
what works from the best in the field. They taught me everything I know and I’m forever grateful for that experience.

After my children had grown I decided I needed to learn some new skills.
I opened my own business in 2018, which went very quickly from renting a small space with a hairdresser friend to buying my own building and having staff to help me. I concentrate on all the injectables and I have a nurse, Ann, who does everything skin, peels, needling and PRP, with lots of new treatments on the horizon.

Keep an eye out for my columns in UNO, where I’ll be giving you the lowdown on everything from skincare to cosmetic enhancement. 

Remember, when you look your best you feel your best, and summer is
right around the corner! 

Cashmoreclinic.co.nz

Botox®, Prescription Medicine for the treatment of frown lines and crow's feet. Botox® has risks and benefits. Botulinum toxin type A 50, 100, 200 units. For product information check 
 with your doctor or consumer medicine information on www.medsafe.govt.nz. Allergan, Auckland. Restylane®, Medical Device Class lll to smooth facial wrinkles and enhance lips by restoring volume and fullness. Restylane® has risks and benefits. For product information check with your doctor or from product details with the supplier. Galderma, Auckland. Dysport®, Prescription medicine for the treatment of frown lines and crow's feet. Dysport® has risks and benefits. Botulinum toxin type A 300 or 500 Ipsen units. For product information check with your doctor or Consumer Medicine Information on www.medsafe.govt.nz. Click for further details. Galderma, Auckland.