Latest news with #Ella&Jo
Irish Daily Mirror
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Daily Mirror
Galway Races dress code, bag policy and 'banned' items
Almost 130,000 are set to descend onto Ballybrit racecourse this week for the Galway Races. And while there's cash to be made on the track with over €2.1 million in prize money up for grabs across 53 races, the stakes are also high when it comes to fashion at the Galway venue. Although there is no official dress code at Irish racecourses, smart casual attire is usually a safe option. Thursday and Friday offer the perfect opportunity to showcase your style and take part in fashion competitions, with exciting prizes to be won in the best-dressed contests. This year, The Ladies Day fashion panel will consist of style insiders Mandy Maher, Marietta Doran, and Lisa McGowan, who won the contest in 2016. Speaking about what she is looking for in style this Thursday, Lisa said: "To be back here as a judge feels like a full circle moment for me. "I'll be keeping an eye out for individuality and confidence - those little touches that make someone stand out." The 2016 best dressed Lady Lisa McGowan from Tullamore, Offaly (Image: ©INPHO/Ryan Byrne) The Best Dressed competition is also getting its own glow-up with skincare brand Ella & Jo named as this year's sponsor. "Ladies Day has always been about expressing your individuality and celebrating personal style," said Niamh Ryan, co-founder of Ella & Jo, who will also serve as a Sponsor Judge. "We're so excited to bring that same sense of fun and confidence to this year's event, and we can't wait to see the incredible outfits on show." On Friday, ladies will have a second chance to nab the most stylish prize at Athlone Town Centre 'Friday's Most Stylish' from 4pm. Celebrity judge Kayleigh Trappe has been named as this year's judge along with Head Judge Marietta Doran. Kayleigh Trappe. The pair will be seeking stand-out style with sustainability in mind from attendees on the day. This year sees the biggest Prize Fund on offer to date for the competition winner with a Shop & Stay Break courtesy of Athlone Town Centre. The lucky winner will leave Galway Racecourse with a €2,500 Athlone Town Centre Gift Card, a luxury two night break in the four star Sheraton Athlone Hotel in a Deluxe Tower Room with dinner and spa treatments and a €500 voucher for Fields The Jewellers, who are one of the many retailers located in Athlone Town Centre. And while ladies will be dressing to impress to nab the impressive prize, punters need to be prepared for Ireland's ever-changing weather. It's wise to check the forecast when planning your outfit for the races. Punters need to be aware though that backpacks, and large bags are not permitted into the course, so ladies, pack lightly. Bags must be under 29.7cm × 21.7cm. If you do need to bring a backpack, there are no bag storage facilities available so please leave it at home. Bags could be searched on the way into the racetrack, so horse racing fans need to give plenty of time in case there are lengthy queues. Patrons should note that the bringing of alcohol, fireworks, smoke canisters, bottles, glasses, cans, flags, banners, poles, distress signals, laser pointers and other similar articles or containers, including anything which could or might be used as a weapon is strictly prohibited. You may also be searched at the entrance to Galway Racecourse which may include a full body pat down and/or use of hand held metal detectors. Any item(s), which may reasonably be considered for use as a weapon, or which may cause danger or disruption to any other persons at the event, will be confiscated – and won't be returned. If a person does not wish to give consent for a search to take place, Galway Racecourse have a right to refuse admission. A view of Galway Racecourse (Image: ©INPHO/James Crombie) This racecourse policy is endorsed and supported by An Garda Síochána who will always be in the vicinity of the racecourse's designated search areas. Any complaint or issue should be notified to the Gardaí on the day. Signage is clearly displayed where searches are located and the policy and exact procedure are explained clearly by trained search teams, who are in place on the day before any search commences. Buggies and strollers are welcome – these are subject to searches and if you need to bring a medical bag with you, just let security know in advance. Tickets are still available and can be purchased on the Galway Races website. Punters can choose between different tickets including premium experiences, single day and multi-day tickets, as well as group packages. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news from the Irish Mirror direct to your inbox: Sign up here.
Metro
29-06-2025
- Health
- Metro
The best SPF for your undereyes, face, scalp, hands and body for full protection
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more Sun protection, otherwise known as SPF, is an essential part of your skincare regime – and bodycare routine for that matter. There is the assumption that SPF should only be worn in the summer and when in direct sunlight, but that's not the case. In fact, we should wear sun protection all year round. Speaking about its importance, Skin Expert and Co-Founder of Ella & Jo, Niamh Ryan, told us at Metro HQ: 'SPF is so important as it helps protect the collagen and elastin you already have. UVA rays can break down the bonds of the building blocks in your skin, which give it its tone and bounce. Using UVA protection essentially helps maintain what you already have and helps stop the accelerated ageing process that UVA causes.' While the Skin and Wellness expert at Spa Ceylon, Shenuka Fernando, added: 'SPF helps prevent hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone caused by UV-induced melanin production. It protects the skin's natural barrier function, preventing moisture loss, dehydration, and potential damage to skin cells.' In recent times we have seen a rise in sun protection with UVA and UVB protection for specific areas of the body, such as under the eyes, the scalp, hair, and hands, as well as SPF for the face and body. But, do we need a dedicated SPF for all areas? The answer is quite simply, yes. While you can apply your face SPF close to the under eye, some products we have tried can irritate those with sensitive eyes, or cause your eyes to water and remove the protective barrier. Laura Porter, Facialist, Skincare Expert and Founder of FAB Skincare & Salons, explains: 'Each area of the body has unique characteristics that make targeted sun protection important. The skin on the face is generally more delicate and exposed than other areas, and it may also be more prone to breakouts or sensitivity, which means it benefits from SPF formulas that are lightweight, non-comedogenic and designed specifically for facial use.' There are a few specifics to look out for when shopping the best SPF for every inch of your body. Aside from a broad spectrum protection that protects against harmful UVA and UVB rays, which is typically SPF30, preferably SPF50, Laura suggests using an SPF that is 'water resistant and has antioxidant protection can be beneficial for all areas, particularly during summer or periods of extended sun exposure.' She adds: 'Across all areas, the key is consistent reapplication, typically every two hours or more often if swimming or sweating.' Without further ado, we have dived deeper into why we need specific sun protection, and recommendations to help you stay safe in the sun all summer long – and beyond. We all know SPF for the face is paramount, and is better for those with sensitive skin than using the same as on the body. Laura Porter explains: 'For the face, the best SPF is one that offers broad spectrum protection and is lightweight enough for daily wear, ideally with a non comedogenic formula that won't clog pores, especially if you have oily or acne prone skin. Gel or fluid textures often work well for most skin types. The face should also be protected with SPF 50 ideally, particularly in the summer or when outdoors for long periods.' I have used this face SPF for years because it is lightweight, breathable and deeply protective. It doesn't irritate my skin, but blends into my skin effortlessly without any white offers a high-level and full spectrum protection, while also protecting against infrared rays. With SPF50+, PA++++ and Fernblock, it is a potent antioxidant to protect against free radical damage. BUY NOW FOR £23.25 (Was £31) La Roche-Posay's Cicaplast B5 is my go-to moisturiser to hydrate my skin and repair the skin Hyalu B5 Aquagel UV Serum SPF30 delivers similar benefits, as it features vitamin B5 and hyaluronic acid which are deeply hydrating. It is also enriched with antioxidants to protect and heal the skin, as well as broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection and offers SPF30. BUY NOW FOR £39.90 Described as a 'multi-hyphenated product' as this sunscreen gel has been formulated with brightening vitamin C, soothing green tea, as well as broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection. The Sunscreen Gel offers SPF50, is lightweight, breathable, non-stick and easy to apply without any whitecast. BUY NOW FOR £27 The under eye is delicate, and can be sensitive, which is why Laura stresses applying a delicate SPF designed specifically for this area is key. She explains: 'The under eye area has the thinnest skin on the face and is particularly sensitive, so it requires a gentle sunscreen that won't cause irritation or migrate into the eyes. Opt for gentle, fragrance-free products that have been formulated specifically for sensitive skin. The under-eye area benefits from the highest level of protection due to the skin's thinness and vulnerability to damage, so using an SPF 50 is strongly recommended.' Hello Sunday has been championing to cut the VAT on SPF for the last few years, hence why it is a trusted source we turn to for sun protection. It blends biomimetic peptides with hydrolysed proteins, collagen, oatmeal prebiotics with mineral and antioxidant filters to hydrate, nourish and protect the eye area. Suitable for all skin types. BUY NOW FOR £14.50 (Was £18) We're a fan of Supergoop!'s Glowscreen SPF40 tinted serum, as well as the Bright-Eyed SPF40, which is specifically designed to apply on the under eye area. The non-nano Zinc Oxide eye cream provides SPF 40 to prevent UV damage, hyperpigmentation and signs of also protects against sun damage and the impact of blue light on the is free from parabens, as well as fragrance. BUY NOW FOR £36 Formulated with GSP-T and Q10, which work to protect from free radical damage, as well as vitamin C and E that aim to brighten and strengthen the skin. Myralys is a key ingredient that works to support and plump the eye contours for a rejuvenated look. But it is also lightweight, provides UV protection as it delivers a factor 50 barrier on the sensitive area. Buy Now There can be confusion over which products are best to protect the scalp and hair from UV protection, and if a dedicated SPF is better than a mere protective spray. Laura weighed in: 'The scalp, especially in individuals with thinning or fine hair, is highly vulnerable to sunburn, but difficult to protect using standard cream based sunscreens. On the scalp, lightweight sprays or powders with SPF are easiest to apply and less likely to weigh down the hair or leave a greasy residue. The scalp requires at least SPF 30, and using sprays or powders can make application easier without affecting your hairstyle.' But the hair protection may vary, as Laura shared: 'It can benefit from UV protection to prevent damage and colour fading, especially in those with treated or sun sensitive hair. While the hair itself doesn't burn, it can suffer from sun-induced dryness and colour fading, so using UV-protective sprays or leave-in treatments can help protect strands from sun damage, particularly for coloured or chemically treated hair.' This multifunctional hair product not only protects the scalp and hair from UV rays, while also hydrating the hair. The Sundaze Sea Spray also functions as a texturising spray, which makes this ideal for beach and pool days on inclusion of Pro Vitamin B5, castor oil and sunflower seed extract also help to condition the tresses after being fried in the sun on holiday. BUY NOW FOR £26 I love this spray as it is easy to use to top up the sun protection on the face, scalp or body. This lightweight spray offers UVA and UVB protection, as well as InfraGuard, which is an antioxidant component to combat signs of ageing, while also protecting against blue light, infrared and harmful UVA and UVB rays. The spray is easy to use, transparent and quick drying, yet doesn't leave your hair greasy when applied along the hairline. Buy Now While it is described as a protective primer to apply before styling your locks, it has other benefits too. The spray helps to detangle any knots, tame any frizz and flyaways, protect against heat damage from styling tools, as well as UV rays. It is easy to use, and pairs nicely when used alongside other SPF hair products. BUY NOW FOR £30 It's understandable why some wouldn't think to apply an SPF directly to their hands, and merely rub the remnants from their face or body sun cream on their hands. More Trending However, as the area is often exposed to the sun, and is a telltale sign of anti-ageing, it is essential to protect them as best we can. Laura shared: 'The hands are exposed daily and often washed multiple times, so they need a more resilient SPF that provides hydration while withstanding frequent contact with water. For the hands, a rich cream based SPF is ideal, offering both high protection and hydration to counteract dryness caused by frequent washing. Also look for a sunscreen that contains hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin, to combat dryness throughout the day. For the hands, SPF 30 to 50 is ideal, with reapplication throughout the day to maintain effectiveness.' The eco-conscious shopper will appreciate Supergoop's Handscreen as it claims to be reef-safe. The formula contains sea buckthorn extract, argan and meadowfoam seed oil, which are deeply hydrating for dry and cracked hands. This factor 40 sun cream delivers UVA and UVB protection without leaving your hands greasy. It is cruelty-free, as well as free from parabens, fragrance and oxybenzone. BUY NOW FOR £34 This affordable and lightweight SPF is perfect for those wanting a vegan SPF that will protect against UV damage right down to your fingertips. It delivers SPF30, but is also hydrating and soothing, which is due to the combination of hyaluronic acid, aloe vera and jojoba oil. It promises to be a non-stick formula, which is essential when it comes to hand creams and hand SPF. BUY NOW FOR £8 (Was £10) This two-in-one product is ideal to use all over the body as well as the hands, plus it functions as a beautiful body shimmer. The formula contains aloe vera, which soothes irritated skin after days in the sun, hydrating pentavitin, as well as antioxidant vitamin E to protect against free radicals. The SPF50+ is sheer when applied to the skin, but also water and sweat resistant, so it covers all bases. BUY NOW FOR £12 Now you've got no excuse to get burnt wherever you are (or go) this year! Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Share your views in the comments below MORE: 'Merit's The Uniform Tinted SPF 50 is the everyday skin staple you didn't know you needed' MORE: This top-rated concealer with SPF is the only summer staple we plan to wear this season MORE: These are the best gradual tanners for a sunkissed glow this summer Your free newsletter guide to the best London has on offer, from drinks deals to restaurant reviews.
Extra.ie
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Extra.ie
In Pics: The countdown is on for this year's Galway Races
The Galway Races is always a standout highlight in the social calendar. This year's festivities kicked off at the Radisson RED Hotel in Galway. Guests were welcomed by Dr Colm O'Flaherty, newly-appointed chairman of the Galway Races committee and CEO Michael Moloney. Best Dressed judges Mandy Maher, Ella & Jo co-founder Niamh and Lisa McGowan at the launch of the Galway Races 2025, at the Radisson RED Galway, which features the Ella & Jo Best Dressed Competition on July 31. Pic: Brian McEvoy Gemma Ní Chionnaith hosted the launch as attendees were given an exclusive preview of what this year's festival has in store. A highlight of the day was the fashion panel, where experts Mandy Maher, Marietta Doran and Lisa McGowan took to the stage to discuss all things racewear. Marietta Doran, Mandy Maher and Lisa McGowan at the launch of the Galway Races 2025, at the Radisson RED Galway, which features the Ella & Jo Best Dressed Competition on July 31. Pic: Brian McEvoy Lisa McGowan, who was crowned Best Dressed Lady at the Galway Races in 2016, will return to this year's festival as a guest judge. Lisa McGowan at the launch of the Galway Races 2025, at the Radisson RED Galway, which features the Ella & Jo Best Dressed Competition on July 31. Pic: Brian McEvoy She will join head judge Mandy Maher and Ella & Jo co-founder Niamh Ryan to judge the Best Dressed Competition. Mandy Maher at the launch of the Galway Races 2025, at the Radisson RED Galway, which features the Ella & Jo Best Dressed Competition on July 31. Pic: Brian McEvoy Irish skincare brand Ella & Jo has been announced as sponsor of the highly coveted competition on Ladies Day. Ella & Jo co-founder Niamh Ryan at the launch of the Galway Races 2025, at the Radisson RED Galway, which features the Ella & Jo Best Dressed Competition on July 31. Pic: Brian McEvoy Speaking about the news, Niamh Ryan, co-founder of Ella & Jo, said: 'Ladies Day has always been about expressing your individuality and celebrating personal style,' Alan Clarke and Kieran O'Malley at the launch of the Galway Races 2025, at the Radisson RED Galway, which features the Ella & Jo Best Dressed Competition on July 31. Pic: Brian McEvoy 'We're so excited to bring that same sense of fun and confidence to this year's event, and we can't wait to see the incredible outfits on show!' Dearbhla Silke, Niamh Donovan and Emily Jean O'Byrne at the launch of the Galway Races 2025, at the Radisson RED Galway, which features the Ella & Jo Best Dressed Competition on July 31. Pic: Brian McEvoy 'To be back here as a judge feels like a full-circle moment for me,' Lisa McGowan added. Leonie Morelli, Hayley Coleman and Simona Va at the launch of the Galway Races 2025, at the Radisson RED Galway, which features the Ella & Jo Best Dressed Competition on July 31. Pic: Brian McEvoy 'I'll be keeping an eye out for individuality and confidence – those little touches that make someone stand out.' Pam Richardson at the launch of the Galway Races 2025, at the Radisson RED Galway, which features the Ella & Jo Best Dressed Competition on July 31. Pic: Brian McEvoy More than 130,000 revellers are expected to descend on Ballybrit between Monday, July 28, and Sunday, August 3. Hayley Doherty at the launch of the Galway Races 2025, at the Radisson RED Galway, which features the Ella & Jo Best Dressed Competition on July 31. Pic: Brian McEvoy Ladies Day at the Galway Races will take place on Thursday, July 31.
Irish Post
02-06-2025
- Business
- Irish Post
How Ella and Jo became a global beauty brand
IN the crowded world of beauty and skincare, Ella & Jo stands out. Founded in 2017 by Charlene Flanagan and Niamh Ryan, Ella & Jo has grown from a simple idea into a globally recognised Irish skincare brand. Before founding Ella & Jo, Niamh was a brand manager at Unilever and spent years travelling through the UK, Australia, and the U.S. before returning home to open her own skin clinic, Bella Beauty, which has been running for over 15 years. It was here, at the clinic, that Charlene and Niamh's paths first crossed. Charlene had forged her own path in the beauty world. 'I left college with an honours in marketing and then went on into digital marketing. I ended up setting up a really successful career in professional makeup artistry, and I worked on TV and media. My bridal makeup calendar was booked out two years in advance.' Their connection was instant. At the time, skincare wasn't the booming, consumer-friendly market it is today, and there were considerable gaps in the market. Those gaps would eventually inspire their first breakthrough product. Ella & Jo began with the Squeaky Clean Brush Cleanser. Niamh had seen firsthand in her clinic how dirty makeup brushes contributed to skin issues, while Charlene, a professional makeup artist, knew the importance of facial hygiene. 'From the very beginning up until now, everything at Ella & Jo is about consumer focus,' Charlene said. 'We never created products just for the product's sake.' For the first few years, the brand grew slowly and intentionally. 'At the time, Niamh and I had four children between the two of us. Everything was a slow drive,' Charlene said. 'But after participating in female entrepreneurship programmes, we recognised that there was something magic here.' The duo's participation in multiple programmes for entrepreneurs helped morph their small business into a multinational company. They poured their time, energy, and resources into Ella & Jo, and it paid off. 'Thankfully, we've seen incredible success to date. It's been an amazing journey.' The brand name itself is a nod to their roots: 'Ella' is inspired by Niamh's Bella Beauty clinic, and 'Jo' is a shortened version of Charlene's married surname. From the west of Ireland to the pages of Vogue (Photo by Ella and Jo) From the start, Ella & Jo has had a focus on storytelling and community. 'The community is at the heart of everything we do,' Charlene explained. 'No amount of advertising budget can ever buy that emotional connection that we've made.' That authentic relationship with their audience is also a key part of product development. 'We run surveys every 12 to 18 months with our current customer base. You would ask them, 'What would you like to see?'' Charlene said. That feedback loop has led to the creation of several standout products, including a night cream with a plant-based alternative to retinol and their innovative Invisible SPF Mist. 'We saw a gap in the market because women weren't topping up their SPF during the day because of their makeup. So we created something that solved that problem.' Ella & Jo is not only consumer-led but also deeply committed to sustainability. 'We've just been certified as a B Corp registered company,' Charlene revealed. 'There are only 66 companies in Ireland that have been B Corp approved, and that is a massive milestone.' From the beginning, the founders prioritised sustainable packaging—aluminium bottles, recyclable glass jars and minimal plastic use. They also manufacture exclusively in Ireland. From its roots in the west of Ireland, Ella & Jo has grown into a global brand, shipping to over 50 countries. 'Our online platform gave us insight into where the growth potential might be,' Charlene said. 'The UK was first in line; we saw a huge expat community there.' 'We signed on with Cat Deeley two years ago as our beauty ambassador. She had just moved from the States to the UK and adored the brand, and we worked with her to launch. That was hugely successful—our photo shoot with her was on the cover of Hello magazine.' Ella & Jo has also been featured in Vogue and has explored new markets in the U.S., Canada, and the Middle East. 'The growth is definitely there,' Charlene said. The founders are now turning their eyes toward spa recognition, developing products that bring luxury treatments into everyday routines. 'We developed products that were spa-like treatments at home. We're open to so many opportunities.' Charlene's advice for others looking to follow a similar path is clear: 'Surround yourself with people who have done it before and find the network. Find an entrepreneurship programme.' She also emphasised the importance of balance. 'Prioritise your well-being. Everybody's balance is going to look different.' 'I feel like Ella & Jo is so much more than just skincare,' Charlene said. 'We invest in storytelling. We invest in our community.' From a single brush cleanser to a globally recognised B Corp beauty brand, Ella & Jo proves that when passion meets purpose, great things can happen. See More: Beauty, Business, Charlene Flanagan, Ella And Jo, Niamh Ryan
