What a week

Its been a long week I can tell you, with one meeting after another. It's all been in the name of beauty as I munched and crunched my way through a press lunch this week and of course discussing the latest products is thirsty work, so I did need a couple of cocktails too. Tough I know but someone has to do it.

Dear Diary

The start of the week saw me meeting up with the lovely Steph from the Estee Lauder Press Office who showed me Lauder's latest offerings. Some of these will feature in my column, but I have to tell you its their NEW DOUBLE WEAR SHADOW CREME and PENCIL that I picked up first. I'm a real fan of long lasting colour and to come across a formulation that doesn't dry the skin as soon as there's contact gets me excited. Lauder have launched a collection of 9 cream shadows in varying colours and 7 Pencil shades that stay put for 15 hours and have expanded the Double Wear wardrobe. Now, 15 hours may seem like a long time but if you are applying at seven am and then taking your make-up off at ten at night it suddenly doesn't seem so unrealistic. Even if you don't need it to last as long as this, there is still something reassuring in the claim. Pencils cost £14.68 and Shadows come in at £13.70. Available now from Estee Lauder Counters or visit www.esteelauder.co.uk. Look out for some new Suncare additions too.

Next I had to hot foot it to Fraser's for some pampering. I'm a fan of the Darphin brand but had never had a facial from them before. Their beauty room in Fraser's Glasgow  opened up like an oasis of calm in what was a really busy city this week. Welcoming the cool room like an old friend I was already enjoying my escape. The Darphin Relaxing Facial lasts for an hours and consist of a cleanse, using a hot flannel, exfoliation and facial massage. The oils fill the room and I did float off. Even though the therapist didn't admit it when I asked her, I was sure I was snoring. This costs £25.00 and is redeemable against products. I have to say what a way to try the product's  before you buy  and a service that goes that bit further than just advice at the counter. Call 0870 160 7243 EXT 2031 to make an appointment. Available at Frasers, Buchanan Street, Glasgow.

My third and final meeting was with Becky, a friend who heads up the Origins Press Office in London and who visits at least three times a year to show us Northerner's what the new launches for the brand will be. Dr Andrew Weil or the 'mushroom man' as most people know him has extended his range for Origins too.  'Night Health' is a line of products to prepare the body and mind before bedtime. Now there are bath products, body balms, and face creams but to be honest I wanted something that was quick and fuss free, so after showering I tried the bedtime spray. This light mist gets sprayed onto your body before jumping into your bed or pj's. Lavender, Mandarin and Chamomile Oils clear the air for a restful night.  Loving it last night I'm off to use it again tonight. Sweet Dreams x

£19.57. Available exclusively form John Lewis until 1st may when it launches nationwide.