Handy tips for achieving 2017's most popular beauty goals
Whether it's long, lustrous hair, supermodel brows, or flawless skin, make this year your best with these top beauty products
As the end of January approaches, New Year's resolutions might seem like a distant memory. But if your beauty goals for 2017 still seem out of reach, it's worth remembering that Rome wasn't built in a day.
With small and consistent modifications throughout the year, those aspirations can still be achieved, especially with these handy products to help get you there.
Longer hair
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According to Cosmopolitan UK, one of the most Googled beauty questions of 2016 was "How to make hair grow faster" – the age-old query on every woman's mind after a bad haircut.
Typically, hair grows at a maximum of half an inch a month and, on average, we lose about 60 to 100 hairs per day, which means that growing it is really down to patience.
However, having a proper hair washing regimen plays a key role when it comes to retaining length, which is why a good conditioner and shampoo can go a long way. This is something Boucleme knows a lot about. Its new cleansers and conditioners are specifically dedicated to creating a nutrient-rich foundation for steady hair growth.
Rich in Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids, all of which benefit the scalp and prevent dryness, they use argan oil, which acts as a shield from harmful UV rays, protecting the hair from environmental pollution. Alongside this, virgin coconut and aloe vera are also used to replenish moisture.
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Regular scalp massages can also help to stimulate blood flow, producing more oxygen and encouraging growth. Reduction of heat tools and sleeping with satin-cased pillows also contribute to retaining moisture.
Boucleme's range is available from the The Good Hair Club
Clearer skin
Having perfect skin depends on several factors, from pore size to skin type, but regular exfoliation, moisturising and hydration are some of the ways you can rejuvenate your complexion after a dull spell.
Herbivore Botanicals, a Seattle-based natural skincare company, has a resurfacing facial mask that contains a clarifying and cooling gel made up of Blue Tansy Oil, a key ingredient that is naturally high in azulene, which acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory, reducing redness and soothing the skin.
The company's Lapis Facial oil works best for combination, oily and blemish-prone skin types, or any skin in need of relief from inflammation. Ingredients include jojoba oil, which easily absorbs into the skin without clogging pores; vegetable-sourced squalene, which can act as a protective barrier to keep moisture in the skin; and jasmine sambac oil, which can increase the skin's elasticity.
Herbivore Botanicals products are available here
Thicker eyebrows
With the popularity of products such as Benefit's Gimme Brow gel and Estee Lauder's Brow-Now palette, eyebrow grooming has never been more in vogue than it is today. Last year left everyone wanting brows to rival those of Cara Delevingne and Lily Collins, with many women wondering how to achieve that extra-natural fullness without sacrificing half an hour every morning.
The answer may exist in "micro-blading", a technique that uses a super fine micro-blade to etch lines into the skin that flow in the same direction as your own hairs. The results can last for up to 18 months, which beats the duration of other semi-permanent hacks, such as the Wunderbrow gel.
Permanent makeup artist extraordinaire, Tracie Giles, is an expert when it comes to brow grooming, with over 25 years of professional experience and a collection of premier spas all over London. Technicians are recruited globally to work in her Knightsbridge clinic, which offers the treatment for up to £595.
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Micro-blading consultation with Tracie Giles can be booked here
Bolder make-up
Make-up bags benefit from a complete shake-up every once in a while and there's no better time than the present. Try a bold lipstick or new nail design to brighten up your look this year.
Graphic nails are a fresh way to add a pop of colour to a minimal look. Renowned manicurist, Gina Edwards, created this design on models for the Tanya Taylor spring/summer 2017 runway, a fun play on candy-hued pastels where no two nails were the same.
MAC is a pioneer when it comes to vibrant lipsticks, which is why its new line of Retro Matte Liquid Lip colours is perfect for experimentation. The shades Dance With Me, a bright raspberry, and To Matte with Love, a deep cranberry red, will make a statement on any occasion and are just the ticket for Valentine's Day. Try a shade that you've never considered before and you might begin to wonder how you ever lived without it.
MAC cosmetics are available here
More exercise, less sweat
If you're planning to increase your fitness this year but want to keep your make-up in place, Urban Decay's setting spray is a must for your gym bag. From Vitamin-Infused Complexion Prep to Cooling and Hydrating Make-up Setting, Urban Decay will keep your face in place for those long workouts.
Come rain or shine or even typhoon, a spritz of these can help any look last for up to 16 hours, bowing before nothing but a facial wipe. So keep calm and sweat it out with peace of mind.