Dear Q&A Readers,

This month I have two nearly identical letters from clients that have had consultations in the past. Both were wondering if I still did then and if so, where. I would like to take a moment to say hello and answer to both of them at the same time.

Thanks for the indulgence, John

Alannah and Barbara,

Hello old friends! Not old as in aged - but old as in "long time, no see"! I know I saw both of you in my original studios in Dickins & Jones Regent Street, and if you can believe it, that has to be well over 7 years ago! Time certainly flies.

I am indeed still doing a similar thing in my digs in Fenwicks of Bond Street, where I have resided since leaving Dickins. I will be upfront and let you know that the waiting list is still a problem, but would love to have the opportunity to see both of you again. If you ring my assistant, Emily, and let her know that I had seen you there, we can try to get you onto the cancellation list and, with any luck, speed things up a little bit.

It is always such a pleasure to catch up with people and I am so pleased you have both got back in contact. I hope you ring and I look forward to seeing you soon. The number for the studio is 020 7409 9823.

Until then, warmly and sincerely,

John

 

Hi John,

I'm getting married in August and although I've been regularly using a Roc product to "unify" my complexion, I still have a few little patches of brown pigmentation on my face. What can I use to fade these away?

I also want to protect my skin from the sun to prevent any more patches.  I used Soltan Factor 50 last year but it was extremely greasy and made me look as if I had a really bad grease problem!  Is there a total sun block for the face that isn't greasy?

Thanks, Liz

Liz,

Hearty congratulations and well done for addressing the issue and being concerned with the future! I too found the ROC helped to brighten my skin. I think your best bet is to look at a pair of products by Environ called Evenescence.

The first is a slightly thicker toner that is used over the entire skin after the cleansing process night and day called Clarifying Lotion. The second is a box of little patches/stickers that you wear while you sleep one the specific patched you need to lighten. The Clarifying Patches are much more intense and are far less passion killing than you would imagine! You can find out more technical information on their website at www.environ.co.za.

As for a high factor SPF for daily wear, there are quite a few that I really like that are not greasy, heavy, white, or make your makeup slide off of your chin. Shu Uemura XTR50 and Clarins Ultra SPF40 are two that I recommend the most regularly. Dr. Murad also does an oil-free block that is very popular. I hope the plans coming up to the wedding go well and make sure you take the time to really enjoy the day.

Warm regards, John

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