Lip Smackingly Good

I don’t know about you, but I love my lips to have lipstick or lipgloss on them, and even if I don’t wear any makeup, a lip balm is a must. Did you know though that lip cosmetics stretches back 5000 years to the age of the Egyptians where they used henna to dye their lips? How far we have come. Here’s some history about lip cosmetics and some of the products that are now available on the market from Go Cosmetics or our Aromatherapy Collection to pamper your pout.

The History of Lip Cosmetics

Decorating the face has been practised throughout the history of mankind by using the stains from plants and minerals or whatever was to hand.

The ancient Egyptians probably invented lip cosmetics. From their paintings we can see highly stylised and painted faces. Cleopatra had her lipstick made from crushed carmine beetles, which gave a deep red pigment, and ants for a base. The Egyptians left wigs, combs and other cosmetic devices. They used henna to paint their lips, a poisonous substance made of plant dye, iodine and bromine.

Cleopatra had her lipstick made from crushed carmine beetles

By the Middle Ages lip cosmetics were being used to denote class, something which carried on through to the beginning of the 20th century. Crimson-stained lips were popular during the reign of Elizabeth I and Elizabeth herself painted on cochineal blended with gum arabic, egg white and fig milk.

Being Lippy With Lipstick

Lip cosmetics began to be mass produced at the beginning of the 20th century, when a metal container, similar to the shape used today, was invented by American Maurice Levy in 1915. Trends in lip colour and shape changed with each new decade and the popularity of lip cosmetics has seen the introduction of other products such as lip gloss – created by Max Factor for Hollywood actresses in 1928 – lip liner and lip balm. In 1949 Hazel Bishop perfected long-lasting lipstick. The ‘kiss-proof’ lipstick was a great success. The Nineties saw major technological advances in lipstick formulation. Ingredients such as Vitamin C, spa water and polymers are included to make lipsticks stay on for longer while moisturising the lips.

Now, we are developing lip cosmetics that are formulated with vegetable oils, natural waxes, refined iron oxides and natural colours.

Lipstick is a cosmetic product containing pigments, oils, waxes, and emollients that applies colour and texture to the lips. There are many varieties of lipstick and they come in a plethora of colours and in all sorts of innovative forms of packaging.

In 1958 Max Factor said “A woman who doesn’t wear lipstick feels undressed in public. Unless she works on a farm.” Talk about pressure. Now every woman buys tons more lipstick, because she would never want to feel undressed!

"A woman who doesn't wear lipstick feels undressed" Max Factor

Through the decades we’ve moved from bold lips, to glowing lips, from punk lips to lip stains, from flavoured lip cosmetics to glittery lips. The fashion is constantly changing but it is safe to say that lip cosmetics in whatever form are here to stay.

If you’ve never worn lipstick before, here are a few useful tips for lip cosmetics when starting to wear this great piece of makeup for the first time.

First, test it on your fingertips to see whether the colour will suit you or not – this is a close match to the lips in terms of colour.

Second, make sure you get a lip pencil that matches the shade as closely as possible otherwise the two colours together will not blend.

Finally if you want to get a long lasting base for the lipstick that you will be applying then be sure to apply a tiny bit of foundation to the lips first – this helps the lipstick hold.

There are so many colours and styles of lipsticks available. This link provides you with just some of the examples from Iona Cosmetics Go Cosmetics Lipsticks range.

Luscious Lipgloss

Lip gloss is a lip cosmetics product used primarily to give lips a mildly glossy lustre and sometimes subtle colour. It is distributed as a liquid or a soft solid (not to be confused with lip balm, which generally has medicinal purposes). It can be completely clear, translucent, or various shades of opacity, including frosted, glittered, and metallic looks.

Glossy lips just ooze sexiness

The first commercially available lip gloss was Max Factor’s X-Rated, launched in 1932. The original formula was sold up until 2003, when Procter and Gamble retired the product.

Like lipstick, lip gloss comes in a variety of forms and may be applied in different ways. It can be contained in a small cylindrical bottle and applied with a rounded or sloped applicator wand (known as a deerfoot applicator), be applied with a built in lipbrush, or a small tube designed for application with the fingertip. Solid glosses come in boxes and tubes, sometimes blurring the distinction between lip gloss and lip balm.

Lip gloss is usually used as a cosmetic, however, some offer moisturising benefits or protection from the elements and other natural causes. Lip gloss containing sunscreen was first advertised by actress Lillian Gish. Bonne Bell introduced the first flavoured lip gloss, Lip Smackers, in 1973. BORBA cosmecuticals and Tarte cosmetics were the first to introduce nutraceutical lip gloss to the market in 2005 providing antioxidents benefits to nourish lips as a nutritional supplement.

Natural makeup companies have made progress in creating lipgloss with mainly natural ingredients except for preservatives although that undoubtedly will change in the future.

We have a wide variety of Go Cosmetics Lip Glosses to choose from in a fantastic array of colours.

Calm With A Balm

Lip balm or lip salve is a substance typically applied to the lips of the mouth to relieve chapped or dry lips, angular cheilitis or stomatitis, and cold sores. The balm is usually manufactured from beeswax, petroleum jelly, menthol, camphor, scented oils, and various other ingredients. Some manufacturers also add vitamins, alum, salicylic acid, or aspirin. Most lip cosmestics lip balms also contain octinoxate, avobenzone, and/or other sunscreens to minimize sun damage.

There are lip balms available which contain all natural ingredients and Iona Cosmetics deals mainly with Scentsible Solutions for natural lip balm products. Their lip balms are made from jojoba wax (although beeswax can be used or olive wax). Jojoba and olive waxes are vegan alternatives. These lip balms also contain coconut oil, vitamin E, cocoa butter and shea butter. These ingredients are all melted down together and then essential oils are added or flavour oils, for example, tea tree and peppermint which are good for cold sores. Honey can also be added as it has skin softening and anti-bacterial properties.

The Future Of Lip Cosmetics

Lip Cosmetics are constantly developing as technology advances. We already see lipsticks that can change colour after application due to heat and acidity in the skin. Future lip cosmetics may exploit this by making lipsticks that change colour more dramatically depending on the skin type of the wearer.

Lipsticks of the future will be more dramatic in colour and sparkle. Exciting future lip cosmetics may include metallic lipsticks, mirror lipsticks, lipsticks that change patterns according to body heat and moisture, lip cosmetics that attach themselves to your lips not glasses and drinking straws.

Lip Cosmetics will constantly change and improve

Foundation forms the basis of your makeup

Introduction

I’d love to introduce you to some foundation products, great quality without the high price tag. Go Cosmetics is a fairly new range which is up and coming in the cosmetic market. In addition, below are a few hints and tips on foundation application to give you a flawless skin

Go Cosmetics is gaining popularity on a daily basis. Just check out Youtube for lots of makeup tutorials using this make of cosmetics. The manufacturers of Go Cosmetics have been in existence for more 7 years here in the UK. This is new in terms of the makeup market however the manufacturers have been in the business for 25 years.

I have been fascinated and passionate about makeup since I was a teenager raiding my mums make-up bag. Although those days are a long time ago, the fascination with make-up remains.

I have been so impressed with Go Cosmetics – fantastic quality without the high price!

….and don’t just take my word for it, check out the Testimonials below….

There is no need to apply foundation all over the face

Some Tips On Foundation Cosmetics

Iona Cosmetics have so many Foundation Cosmetics from Go Cosmetics to help make your skin blemish free and glow with vitality. Here’s just a few tips on application:

1. Start with a clean, moisturised face. Dab dots of concealer on undereye circles or blemishes (try our Go Light Reflecting Concealer). Dab the concealer into place (never rub). Makeup artist Bobbi Brown suggests using concealer before foundation because you won’t use as much foundation if you conceal problem spots first. There’s no real rule to whether you apply foundation or concealer first.

2. Dot your foundation cosmetics on red spots or uneven areas of skin (usually the chin, along or on the nose, under the eyes and the corners of the mouth). Again, do not cover the entire face, your goal is to achieve an even skin tone.

2. Moving from the inside of your face outward, blend the foundation into skin. You can use your fingers, a nylon brush or a wedge sponge.

3. Blend at the hairline and jawline to avoid the mask look.

4. Finish off the look with a powder. Carry blotting papers for any oils that creep up over the day, instead of packing on the powder

One of the Mineral Foundations from Go Cosmetics

Foundations from Iona Cosmetics

Go Cosmetics Mineral Powder Foundation

Cosmetic technology has undergone a minor revolution with Mineral Powders working wonders in every climate. Mineral Powder makeup can be used by anybody with any type of skin. As there is no talc in these mineral powders, made of natural materials, it helps to retain the moisture and hydration and does not clog pores. You only need very little of this powder and it will go a long way, one pot will last ages. This really is amazing value for money, other leading manufacturers can charge £30 for Mineral Powders of equal quality. Our Go Cosmetics Mineral Powders can be bought at an amazing price of £9.99.

Go Cosmetics One Stop Foundation with Lift

This product is available in four different shades of beige from light to dark. A fantastic formulation which gives you excellent coverage. This no transfer foundation with lifting effect leaves your skin feeling soft and beautiful all day long. High quality product at a great price.

Go Cosmetics Total Cover Foundation for Asian and African Skin Tones

Total Cover Foundation shades are designed for Asian and African skin tones. This gorgeous relatively new item to Go Cosmetics comes in four new shades which are No. 5 Espresso, No. 6 Warm Walnut, No. 7 Almond, and No. 8 Warm Almond. Applies beautifully, helps to leave your skin looking flawless and smooth.

Go Cosmetics Mousse Foundation

This is a gorgeous rich creamy mousse foundation in four different shades, numbering from 1 to 4 from light beige to darker beige. These gorgeous foundations adapt to any skin type and come in a stunning gold effect tub. They go on smoothly and dry almost like a powder for a matt finish.

Go Cosmetics Total Cover Foundation

This gorgeous item comes in four top selling shades which will adapt to all skin types Soft Beige, Honey Beige, Natural Beige, and Deep Beige. It is easily applied and gives great coverage for skin discolouration and imperfections.

What The Folks Say About Iona Cosmetics

“WOW!!! This site is amazing, the service is fantastic and arrive as if delivered by hand x The staff have been soo helpful with advising me on products that suit my skin tones and life style x The products are superb, beautifully packaged and the prices well, they speak for themselves. Fab products at amazing prices – you know how to make this girl happy )))) x keep up the good work Iona x x x”

Clara from Portsmouth

“I have ordered several times from Iona Cosmetics now and they are by far the best make up website around. Brilliant quality products at excellent prices. The delivery is speedy and the owner is very friendly and helpful. I’d definitely recommend this website to anyone with an interest in make up. 10 out of 10!”

Christie from Fife

“Wow that’s all I can say, the products on this site are as good as all the leading brands at low cost prices!“

Joanne from Liverpool

“I have purchased cosmetics from this website, the products are excellent value for money and the delivery service was lightning fast. I will be purchasing from this new website in the very near future.”

Yvette from Middlesex

“Thank you for all the help you have given regarding Go* Cosmetics. Hope all goes well with your new site. Will order again soon, thanks again.”

Rose from Bristol

“I ordered some eyeliners for a friend at Christmas, it arrived very quickly and was packaged wonderfully in a nice pouch. My friend was really really pleased with them. Thank you.”

Clare from Cambridgeshire

“I’ve been a customer of Iona Cosmetics for over 6 months now and find them to be extremely professional, efficient and speedy! The quality of all of the products is very high and I am very pleased with the final finish! I absolutely love the diamond lip glosses, and eye gels (which come in various shades).”

Astromas Massage Oils ... Massage Your Astrological Personality

ASTROMAS MASSAGE OILS …… Massage Your Astrological Personality

Helen Hammond and Jude Robinson have been working together for well over a month developing a new range as part of a true joint venture. We believe these aromatherapy products to be the first of their kind.

We are therefore very proud to introduce to you a very unique and different range ….. ASTROMAS, a range of massage oils that have been blended with the characteristics of your Astrological Star Sign in mind.

This has been a most enjoyable joint venture between Jude of Iona Cosmetics and Helen of Scentsible Solutions. After jointly researching the individualities of each birth sign, our gorgeous range of massage oils have then been hand blended by our Qualified Aromatherapist, Helen, to create a unique massage oil. These massage oils aim to promote your positive star sign characteristics and alleviate any negativity.

For example, our ‘Gemini’ blend – Connect The Twins:

Some might say Geminis are an entanglement of paradoxes but the truth is that they have an easy acceptance of opposites. Gemini world is one of duality. It is like they see the world through a radio and the Gemini can tune experiences and points of view in and out as their interests change. They are curious, talkative, versatile and mentally active. Some will think Geminis are fun to be with, but the ability to alter with the changing winds can also lead to others seeing them as shallow. Geminis can have one twin who is outgoing, friendly and helpful with the second twin enjoying their own company, thoughts and personal space which can cause internal conflict.

Our ‘Gemini’ blend of oils helps to create an aura conducive to a harmonious connection of any internal emotional conflict. This blend contains the essential oils of Melissa, Roman Camomile, Ylang Ylang and Jasmine.

Another example is our ‘Pisces’ blend – Soothe and Comfort:

Pisceans have an instinctive connection with life beyond space and time. They are spiritual in nature and emotional in expression. They are adept at helping people less fortunate than themselves. Pisces intuition and imagination are at once their strengths and their weaknesses, they relish exploring their fantasy land to escape everyday stresses and strains. That said, without foundation of reality, it becomes easy to flounder and to lose direction.

Our ‘Pisces’ blend creates an environment to explore the imagination through relaxation whilst remaining grounded. This blend contains the essential oils of Lavender, Neroli, Frankincense, Roman Camomile, Patchouli, Ginger and Ylang Ylang.

A further example is our ‘Scorpio’ blend – Love and Positivity:

Scorpions need to delve beneath appearances to reality, nothing superficial will do. They have a magnetic personality which draws others towards them. A Scorpio will be ecstatic when someone merges their feelings with their own however they can become cold and withdrawn when hurt in love. Scorpions have the magic to light up the dark, but sometimes they would benefit by looking at the positive side of things rather than going into the darkness at all. Softening the sting of a Scorpio and they are extremely loyal to those they care for and will not forget a kindness or grievance and will willingly repay either ten times over.

Our ‘Scorpio’ blend brings positive feelings of light and love and helps soften any negativity that may exist. This blend contains the essential oils of Sandalwood, Lavender, Cypress, Rose, Geranium, Marjoram and Clary Sage.

Each massage oil contains 100ml of oil and is gift wrapped in its own satin effect purple drawstring pouch. All for only 7.50 GBP each and we offer speedy worldwide dispatch.

All oils can be purchased online from www.scentsiblesolutions.co.uk or www.ionacosmetics.co.uk.

We do offer wholesale prices, please contact Jude (salesoffice@ionacosmetics.co.uk) or Helen (helen@scentsiblesolutions.co.uk) for more details.

We hope you will agree that this is a fantastic way for you to relax and also an unusual and unique personalised gift for your loved ones.

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Luscious Red Lips Go* Cosmetics No. 4 Lipstick

Hey everyone,

I thought my first blog post would give you some insight into a recent exhibition I went to promoting Iona Cosmetics and share some comedy moments too. It seems that most of September was taken up in preparation for the ALL WOMAN SHOW in Winchester and the beginning of October recovering from it!! So I thought I would share my experiences of my first ever exhibition.

I had the idea in mind that I would be exhibiting my cosmetics, my aromatherapy collection, my jewellery collection, and offering facial makeovers for people on the day. The previous few months to the actual show date (28th September) was spent gathering all the bits and pieces you just never think about – from brush cleaner to table cloth, from company banner to table confetti, from poster stands to gift bags, from corporate T-shirts to disposable mascara brushes. Jeeeezzz the list really was endless. Typical me though, all purchases were made in enough time but what did my hubby and I end up doing ….. a trial run of the table layout at 1 o’clock in the morning in our conservatory, the same day I was actually setting off for Winchester (my best friend was driving us down on the Saturday before the show on the Sunday). Mad or what? Nothing like a bit of stress to get your adrenal glands and your creative juices flowing!!! Take a look at this, doesn’t look much does it hee hee

My hubby and I collapsed into bed at 4am after he’d packed all the stock in boxes and filled the hallway ready to load up the car. I have to say at this point that due to my back condition (can’t lift anything), my hubby was an absolute star and there was no way I could have done any of this on my own so a big thank you to him.

My best friend Kerrie came to pick me up at 11am, she and Gary loaded up the car and off we went. I tell you, in all honesty, this was soooo liberating. Sorry to go on about my back, I’m not whinging honestly, but to be out and about on my own felt so good!!! My friend and I laughed and chatted all the way down to Winchester and we arrived at 4pm.

We met with Hollie (my lovely makeup model who was helping me with the makeovers on the day) and her boyfriend, and we all went out to dinner in the centre of Winchester around 7.30pm. Now, if only I had the photos to prove this – myself, Kerrie and Hollie ended up in a Karaoke bar at 10pm, all very sober (I couldn’t risk drinking too much as I knew the pressures of the next day). Instead of sitting quietly listening to the embarrassing wails of the locals, the three of us got up and sang our own equally embarrassing version of The Love Shack by the B52s. We even had groupees, girls cheering and dancing in front of us. Absolutely hilarious and I can’t even blame the alcohol this time ha ha.

After a good night’s sleep, slightly disturbed with a mixture of feelings of nervousness for the next day and sheer mortification (is there such a word?) that I got up and sang in front of a complete bunch of strangers, we breakfasted and headed to the Winchester Guildhall. A truly stunning venue for the show:

After much stress and several beads of sweat, the table was set up for the show which began at 10.30am. It was a great atmosphere, fellow exhibitors were all really friendly and supportive. I felt happy with the table layout although, my goodness it looked so different and so FULL compared to our ‘conservatory setup’ ha ha :

Myself, Kerrie and Hollie were all in our corporate colours, we even had matching makeup on our eyes and lips. We stood for a little while wondering what the day would hold for us, would we be rushed off our feet or left feeling like perhaps this was a bad idea. I think you can tell from the pre-show photograph below, we displayed our nervous grimaces for all to see (I’m the blob in the middle in case you’re wondering hee hee) :

Well, we weren’t kept looking nervous and out of place for long, we had our first sale at 11am and the day was very hectic from there on in. We figured out very quickly the best way to work together as a threesome, Kerrie taking the orders, working out totals and generally helping me stay organised, Hollie doing the makeovers which were fantastic, lots of bright colours and I was chatting with customers, talking about the company and demonstrating lots of products.

The day itself just flew by, before we knew it the show was closing and it was 4pm (although we made our last sale at 4.05pm hee hee). It was such an amazing day which was only marred by the fact that we didn’t even have time to go and have a look at everybody else’s exhibitions, although some lovely exhibitors came to chat with us so some useful contacts were made on the day.

Would I do it again, definitely yes, would I do it differently, probably. Life is a journey afterall and we just keep learning all of the time – I for one would definitely get bored if I wasn’t challenged mentally.

Finally, I just want to say a personal thank you to my husband Gary, Kerrie, Hollie and her boyfriend David for all their help in making it such a successful show, without them it wouldn’t have been possible.