Skin Deep, Jul 16, 2010
The latest health and beauty news and deals.
The Four Seasons hosted a lunch on Wednesday to celebrate the launch of two fantastique new treatments by the “beyond organic” Ila beauty brand. The label has teamed up with the Four Seasons in Hong Kong to offer two treatments that are unique in Asia: the Rainforest Experience (2.5 hours, $2,500) and the Traditional Moroccan Hamam (2 hours, $1,800). To be honest, I’m not overly fussed about organic beauty, but what I do love about Ila is its eco-awareness and commitment to providing employment and fair-trade opportunities to indigenous tribes in the Amazon and the Moroccan Atlas mountains, which make Ila’s soaps and help to harvest the plants used in their remedies. As I sadly had to rush back to the office after lunch, I haven’t had a chance to try the treatment yet, but I’ll definitely make an appointment soon. Watch this space for my verdict. The Four Seasons, 8 Finance St., Central, 3196-8900
Here’s another cosmetic company that’s pouncing on the eco-friendly trend. Spanish skincare brand Ainhoa has just launched the Ainhoa-Bio line, which has been awarded the ECOCERT certification. This means that its 90 percent natural ingredients have been collected in an environmentally sound manner, while powerful plant extracts offer a detoxifying and tightening effect, but without the nasty chemicals. Products cost from $390 to $640, and are available exclusively at The Retreat Spa in Repulse Bay. 1/F, 33 Beach Rd., Repulse Bay, 2803-1860
Big love and congratulations to R and M, who got married up in Sai Kung the other week. It was a sweltering hot day, and while the bride managed to look utterly elegant, the rest of us were wrangling with sweat patches and melting makeup. Gotta say though, my $50 wash-n-blow from the local K-Town hairdresser’s survived pretty well, all things considered. A friendly tip for non-canto readers out there: if you want an el cheapo session at your local salon, then ask for “chui jik” to get your hair blown straight, and “chui loon loon dei” (accompanied by finger-twirling gesticulations) for a wavy do. And if you’re shorthaired, make sure to say “mm sei gum go” (no need to go so high) if you think you’re in danger of entering “Dynasty” bouffant territory.