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The CH Blog
Caroline Hirons' expert advice, reviews and recommendations, all in one archive.
The function of the blog is to help you find what you do and don’t need in your skincare routine. From the core basics through to the spectrum of retinoid strengths and everything in between, the blog is an archive to breakdown jargon and present you with both my opinion and simple scientific facts.
Caroline Hirons, Founder and Qualified Skincare Expert
![Article image](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/t/80/assets/article-default-image.jpg?v=23659543210088390711715771661)
A mini-break
Hi All, Firstly thank you so much for your responses to the poll. We had a resounding YES to a Live Clinic so I am looking in to that for...
15/08/2012
![Shiseido celebrates 140 years](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/DSC_0089.jpg?v=1715845578&width=533)
Shiseido celebrates 140 years
Shiseido have their 140th anniversary this year and to celebrate they are bringing out a host of new releases.... Radiant Lifting Foundation Camellia Compact Lacquer Rouge ...Limited Editions and previously...
11/08/2012
![Article image](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/t/80/assets/article-default-image.jpg?v=23659543210088390711715771661)
A Live Clinic?
Hi Everyone, Just a quick question before the weekend! I am testing the water about the possibility of organising a Live Clinic in the Autumn. It would be held in...
10/08/2012
![Article image](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/t/80/assets/article-default-image.jpg?v=23659543210088390711715771661)
Some changes
Depending on when you started reading this blog – it may always have been Beauty Mouth – or you may remember it as Mother’s Mouth. Back in 2010 my husband...
04/08/2012
![July. A Visual Diary. (very picture heavy!)](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/JULY_202012_20003.png?v=1715845578&width=533)
July. A Visual Diary. (very picture heavy!)
R.I.P. NORA. The genius of Roja Dove. Various newness to come. Standard. The boy. Tired. Possibly the best tomato and red onion salad - ever. My hydrangeas. Serious pride. Percy...
04/08/2012
![Article image](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/t/80/assets/article-default-image.jpg?v=23659543210088390711715771661)
The Clinic. - CLINIC IS CLOSED!!!!
CLINIC CLOSED - THANKS EVERYONE!!!!! Hi Everyone, I know there hasn't been one in a while but when I'm swamped with work I just don't have the time to answer...
02/08/2012
![Omorovicza Thermal Cleansing Balm](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/thermal_cleansing_balm_web.png?v=1715845921&width=533)
Omorovicza Thermal Cleansing Balm
Omorovicza is based on the mineral-rich healing waters found in Budapest’s thermal spas. I’m obsessed with all things mineral and love a range based on proven historical benefits as opposed...
30/07/2012
![Article image](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/t/80/assets/article-default-image.jpg?v=23659543210088390711715771661)
Beauty Bazaar Harvey Nichols
Well I hinted earlier this week that I had seen something amazing in my meeting with Harvey Nichols and WWD broke the story this morning so I've been given the...
26/07/2012
![Jo Malone London does Christmas and something for right now....](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/400KbChristmasLaunch2012414.jpg?v=1715845582&width=533)
Jo Malone London does Christmas and something for right now....
Yep. It's that time of year again. Summer. Or as the beauty world knows it - Christmas. Jo Malone had a preview of their Christmas offering this week. Held at...
23/07/2012
![Acqua di Parma launch Iris Nobile Sublime](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/DSC_0082.jpg?v=1715845584&width=533)
Acqua di Parma launch Iris Nobile Sublime
Last week I was invited to the launch of the latest Acqua di Parma fragrance, Iris Nobile Sublime. This new addition to the range was showcased at the Arts Club...
21/07/2012
![Karl Lagerfeld for Shu Uemura - first look](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/page-one_20_1.jpg?v=1715845584&width=533)
Karl Lagerfeld for Shu Uemura - first look
I'm fussy about makeup - but I love Shu and I know a lot of you do too - so here, to wet your appetite are the first released pictures...
19/07/2012
![The Fabulous Miss Mercedez](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/Colour_20Logo_202_400dpi.jpg?v=1715845583&width=533)
The Fabulous Miss Mercedez
If you live in London and like me, don't always have the time or inclination to visit a salon, or it is just your preference to have someone come to...
14/07/2012
![Decleor Sunrise Treatment - Spa Illuminata](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/ZF-5555-48749-1-002.jpg?v=1715845577&width=533)
Decleor Sunrise Treatment - Spa Illuminata
If you're reading this from outside of the UK you may be unaware that we are in the middle of the wettest period EVER. And I for one, have had...
14/07/2012
![Article image](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/t/80/assets/article-default-image.jpg?v=23659543210088390711715771661)
Cheat Sheet - Things I am asked about the most
You are obsessed with your pores. They do not open and close like doors. You say they are HUGE – then send me a picture and I can SEE NOTHING....
13/07/2012
![Apivita Body Nourish Shower Gel - Review](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/BODY_NOURISH_bath_shower_gel.jpg?v=1715845596&width=533)
Apivita Body Nourish Shower Gel - Review
I'll keep it brief. I was sent this for review months ago in what was obviously a very savvy pre-Marks & Spencer launch PR focus. In short, it is really,...
08/07/2012
![Article image](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/t/80/assets/article-default-image.jpg?v=23659543210088390711715771661)
Clinic is Open. CLINIC IS CLOSED.
Thank you everyone - Closed now!Hi Everyone. I'm opening up the Clinic this evening as I probably won't get time tomorrow.As usual, please leave as much info as you can...
08/07/2012
![OSKIA Perfect Cleanser](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/OSKIA_20Perfect_20Cleanser_20_2.jpg?v=1715845585&width=533)
OSKIA Perfect Cleanser
I blogged recently about the amazing facial I had with Abigail James at the OSKIA Spa. It and she were amazing. Part of the joy was the quality of the...
07/07/2012
![Article image](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/t/80/assets/article-default-image.jpg?v=23659543210088390711715771661)
Most requested reviews - and why I haven't thus far..
There are a few products/brands that I am asked about regularly - whether it's for my opinion on Twitter or just to review. Here's the thing: I try, in general,...
07/07/2012
![Fortnum & Mason Bespoke Facial](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/CAMERA_20-_20JULY_202012_20037.jpg?v=1715845586&width=533)
Fortnum & Mason Bespoke Facial
I had an amazing facial this week. You may think Fortnum & Mason is good for hampers and tea - but their Beauty Rooms are a hidden treasure tucked away...
06/07/2012
![Neal's Yard launch Bee Lovely](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/CAMERA_20-_20JULY_202012_20052.jpg?v=1715845586&width=533)
Neal's Yard launch Bee Lovely
Earlier today I went along to the launch of Neal's Yard Bee Lovely range in Covent Garden. Brought back by popular demand and extended from the original Hand Cream, the...
04/07/2012
![Article image](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/t/80/assets/article-default-image.jpg?v=23659543210088390711715771661)
Pop-up Clinic! - WOAH! The Clinic is Closed!!!
Hi Everyone, Clinic is open for the first 20 questions. Have at it! :)
29/06/2012
![The Incomparable Nora Ephron](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/Nora-Ephron-008.jpg?v=1715845577&width=533)
The Incomparable Nora Ephron
Nora Ephron died yesterday. In a world where celebrity is chased and mediocrity endorsed, she was fiercely intelligent, hysterically, pee-your pants-hold-your-sides funny and always, always, up for breaking the rules....
27/06/2012
![Article image](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/t/80/assets/article-default-image.jpg?v=23659543210088390711715771661)
![Spirit of Beauty Orchid and Mandarin Facial Cleansing Gel - Review](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/spirit_20of_20beauty_20clare_20harvey_20orchid_20and_20mandarin_20facial_20cleansing_20oil.jpg?v=1715845588&width=533)
Spirit of Beauty Orchid and Mandarin Facial Cleansing Gel - Review
I first came across this brand at an ‘Intro to NutriBeauty’ event.Clare Harvey, the woman behind the range is an internationally recognized expert in flower essences and a healer with...
18/06/2012
![Article image](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/t/80/assets/article-default-image.jpg?v=23659543210088390711715771661)
We're away.
Hi Everyone, I'm travelling for the next three days - *waves to Edinburgh, Warrington and Manchester* - so I'm delaying the Clinic until the end of the week as we...
18/06/2012
![A Live Clinic!](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/TOWIB_20badge_20medium.jpg?v=1715845587&width=533)
A Live Clinic!
Tomorrow (Saturday) I am giving the first ever Live Clinics at the TOWIB - The Only Way Is Blogging - Event in Central London. I am also taking part in...
15/06/2012
![Salmon - and hidden studies](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/salmon460x276.jpg?v=1715845588&width=533)
Salmon - and hidden studies
So I was talking to someone in the industry this week who mentioned that they used to work for one of the big cosmetic companies. The company shall remain nameless...
13/06/2012
![Dr.Jart+ Beauty Balms](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/Premium_20Beauty_20Balm.jpg?v=1715845278&width=533)
Dr.Jart+ Beauty Balms
So the big news this week is the launch of the Dr.Jart+ BB creams to the UK. I've made my reluctance to BB creams known in the past - generally...
12/06/2012
![Article image](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/t/80/assets/article-default-image.jpg?v=23659543210088390711715771661)
The Clinic is Open - CLINIC CLOSED.
Morning All!Apologies for the recent disappearance of the Clinic. The last few weeks have been really busy and I simply had no time.Please feel free to leave your questions below...
11/06/2012
![OSKIA Signature Glow Facial & Skin Smoothing Massage Candle](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/spa_207_20web.jpg?v=1715845921&width=533)
OSKIA Signature Glow Facial & Skin Smoothing Massage Candle
I didn’t go into the beauty business expecting to be paid for reviewing and trialling facials and treatments. It just organically happened. In a really wonderful way. Sometimes it’s not...
09/06/2012
![REN Clearcalm 3 Clarifying Clay Cleanser - Review](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/IMG_2275_bc5cb775-d72d-41eb-9023-6ca265275686.jpg?v=1715845285&width=533)
REN Clearcalm 3 Clarifying Clay Cleanser - Review
I came across this a couple of months ago and thought it might be suitable for those days where my skin just doesn't know what it wants to do with...
08/06/2012
![May in the life of the blog.](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/540348_398307763545260_152560524786653_76245054_1311343214_n.jpg?v=1715845589&width=533)
May in the life of the blog.
Amen. Me, Mouldy Fruit and Priya Sonn hanging out with Kim K. Why? Because we could. Kourtney and Khloe on their way to the launch. Why? Because we could. Muahahahahahaaa...
05/06/2012
![Article image](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/t/80/assets/article-default-image.jpg?v=23659543210088390711715771661)
ALPHA-H TSV - FOREWARNED IS FOREARMED.
It's that time again. Where I blackmail beg ask politely for details about the upcoming TSV of one of my favourite brands in order to give you a heads up...
27/05/2012
![Article image](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/t/80/assets/article-default-image.jpg?v=23659543210088390711715771661)
Clinic on Thursday - CLINIC IS CLOSED
Morning All!The Clinic is open - could I ask a couple of things?Can you please contact me here if you have re-commented on last week's Clinic or have emailed me...
24/05/2012
![Article image](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/t/80/assets/article-default-image.jpg?v=23659543210088390711715771661)
Fortnum & Mason Summer Scents aka Private Perfume Party - Tuesday 29th May
I watched an interview with Michael Winner over the weekend where he said that the English were on the whole, dreadful at Customer Service. He was referring to restaurants...
23/05/2012
![Kim Kardashian True Reflection Launch](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/True_20Reflection.jpg?v=1715845591&width=533)
Kim Kardashian True Reflection Launch
Sometimes you need a little fun. When Kim Kardashian rolled in to town last week to launch her latest fragrance 'True Reflection', I was invited to the launch party and...
22/05/2012
![April in the life of the blog.](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/NARS_20001.jpg?v=1715845593&width=533)
April in the life of the blog.
(Yes I know its late) Behind the scenes of the What's in My Handbag? shoot. Max's first time at Meat Liquor. My lily addiction is out of control. Dude. One...
20/05/2012
![Jo Malone Velvet Rose & Oud - Cologne Intense](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/Rose_Water_Vanilla_Cologne_100ml_7ec48b5f-2a6b-4441-94c4-2144d54c2a2c.jpg?v=1715845593&width=533)
Jo Malone Velvet Rose & Oud - Cologne Intense
I wasn't surprised when Jo Malone originally released the Cologne Intense range in 2010. In a way it was more 'What took them so long?'. Every Spring, London - and...
18/05/2012
![Elemis Pro-Collagen Advanced Eye Treatment](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/PC_20Advanced_20Eye_20Treatment.jpg?v=1715845591&width=533)
Elemis Pro-Collagen Advanced Eye Treatment
Three years in the making, Elemis launch a new addition to their ridiculously successful Pro-Collagen range this Summer. Advanced Eye Treatment is designed to aid fine lines and wrinkles and...
17/05/2012
![Havaianas and Mavala](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/Havaianas_Mavala_Drk_Blue_Foot_Combo_2.jpg?v=1715845591&width=533)
Havaianas and Mavala
Havaianas and Mavala are doing their bit to save us all from the dreaded trotter feet this Summer by offering a free shape and polish to all customers purchasing a...
16/05/2012
![Cheat Sheet - Acne](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/PARSP14_StellaMcCartney_9158-6.jpg?v=1715845292&width=533)
Cheat Sheet - Acne
When I turned 40, I experienced adult onset acne – along with food allergies. Out of nowhere. I mention this because it is increasingly obvious that the same is happening...
16/05/2012
![Jo Malone Blackberry & Bay Launch](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/may_202_202012_20015.jpg?v=1715845595&width=533)
Jo Malone Blackberry & Bay Launch
Earlier today I attended the press launch of Jo Malone's upcoming fragrance set to hit counters at the end of Summer, Blackberry & Bay. Held in a square in Central...
15/05/2012
![111SKIN - Opportunity to meet the Founder.](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/111_20skin_20Group_20HR.jpg?v=1715845594&width=533)
111SKIN - Opportunity to meet the Founder.
Next Wednesday, 23rd May - you have the opportunity to talk to the founder of 111Skin, cosmetic surgeon Dr Yannis Alexandrides and bombard him with your questions. Okay - maybe...
15/05/2012
![Article image](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/t/80/assets/article-default-image.jpg?v=23659543210088390711715771661)
Emma Hardie TSV - Forewarned is forearmed.
Regular readers will know of my addiction to Emma Hardie's Moringa Balm Cleanser. I also love the night cream. Emma Hardie's TSV goes live at Midnight. NOW. What's in it?...
15/05/2012
![Elemis Limited Edition Papaya Enzyme Peel](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/FI25_Elemis_PapayaEnzymePeel_00009.jpg?v=1715845591&width=533)
Elemis Limited Edition Papaya Enzyme Peel
As brands go - very few have an entire offering of masks which are all not only amazing, but must-haves. Elemis is one of them. Exotic Cream Moisturising, Fruit Active...
15/05/2012
![Quick Weekend 48 Hour Giveaway - WINNER](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/Beauty_20Mouth_20Bundle.jpg?v=1715845922&width=533)
Quick Weekend 48 Hour Giveaway - WINNER
Thank you all for your entries - my biggest giveaway so far! The winner chosen by random.org is......Jess - aka @starflykiwi CONGRATULATIONS! Please email me your details so that I...
14/05/2012
![Silent Sunday](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/2_20ca3ad0-cb36-4cdc-8f52-fcf376b84b42.jpg?v=1715845595&width=533)
![OSKIA Micro Exfoliating Balm](http://skinrocks.com/cdn/shop/articles/OSKIA_20Micro_20Exfoliating_20Balm_202-1.jpg?v=1715845922&width=533)
OSKIA Micro Exfoliating Balm
OSKIA is one of those brands that has been on the peripheral for a while that you can feel just ‘bubbling under’ about to hit the big time. Firstly, their...
09/05/2012