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Sun, sand, sea all solved: Relaxing holidays can be tough on skin and hair so pack the perfect repair kit

Rhiannon Harries
Sunday 30 August 2009 00:00 BST
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1. Stimulskin Plus Lift Renewal Series

£195, www.darphin.co.uk

The price tag is eye-watering, but Darphin reckons the results after 30 days using this high-potency rejuvenating skincare system justify it. Acetylglucosamine, derived from sugar, exfoliates to smooth fine lines, while Deepsane, a micro-organism from the bottom of the ocean that adapts itself to its hostile environment, promotes cellular renewal.

2. Multi-Mineral Pore Minimising Detox Mask

£17.50, www.renskincare.com

Balmy summer weather often leaves skin congested and dull. This purifying mask from the cool bioactive brand contains Breton clay to draw out impurities and spirulina, a tropical seaweed packed with essential fatty acids, to aid cell renewal.

3. Essence Absolue nourishing essence

£37.50, www.shuuemura.com

You might love the natural highlights the sun gives your hair, but what about its straw-like condition? Shu Uemura's haircare range has not taken long to replicate the cult status of its make-up line and this protective treatment oil, based on a formula used by Japanese geishas, is set to be another hit.

4. Gentle Cleansing Cream

£24.47, Nia 24 from www.spacenk.com

This rich cream avoids the drying effect of some cleansers thanks to a combination of evening primrose oil, olive oil and sodium hyaluronate, but the star ingredient is Pro-Niacin, a patented molecule that delivers niacin (vitamin B3) directly to skin cells.

5. Spa Body Radiance

£42, Natura Bissé from www.spacenk.com

This soothing emulsion from the luxury Barcelona brand doubles as an after-sun and year-round treatment for dry skin. The aloe vera extract, from organically grown plants, is kind to sore or irritated skin, calming and cooling sunburn, while the lightweight formula delivers moisture without stickiness.

6. Love Balm

£10, www.jurlique.co.uk

Jurlique has sold luxurious, plant-based products since the 1980s. This handy tin of multi-tasking balm makes a brilliant addition to your handbag. Great for moisturising dry lips, cuticles and elbows, it also smells delicious enough to dab on as a solid perfume.

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