Article by Ceri Wheeldon

I am very fortunate to meet some truly inspirational women in the course of my work with Fab after FIfty.  We all associate the Frizz Ease hair products with celebrity hairdresser John Frieda, but of equal importance behind the brand was a remarkable woman, Gail Federici.

I caught up with Gail when she was in London recently .

The Frizz Ease Company was sold several years ago  but rather that sit back and enjoy the fruits of her success, Gail has since gone on to  launch the Time Bomb range with Lulu, and also Color Wow – the revolutionary hair root cover product and hair care range.

What prompted you to move into skincare having been so successful in haircare?

Gail: I always say that necessity is the mother of invention. I have always suffered from frizzy hair – before we launched Frizz Ease all the hair products on the market had the aim of adding volume. That was the last thing I needed- and it was the same for many other women. I wanted a product that would fix frizzy hair. Now I take the same approach to skincare. We don’t base our products on the latest ‘must have’ ingredient – but look at the problems women have and look at a way to solve those problems. We like to bring innovation to the products that we launch. In haircare we looked at the textile industry for inspiration, it was the way that we then  put products together that was innovative.

As a small brand we have to make sure that all of our products deliver. What problems do they address. The results  gained from using the products have to show what we can do.

There are four cornerstones in our approach to effective skincare:

1. Exfoliate

2. Sebum – replacing the lost oils

3. Moisture and Hydration

4. Collagen

If we think about the ingredients before the problem then that will get in the way of coming up with interesting solutions. Our next challenge is to find a way to eliminate dark circles!

The new complexion  cocktails we have brought out were really developed by looking at my own daughters lifestyles. After late nights and lack of sleep they can look as though they have aged 10 years – (as can we all!). So we looked at what we would do if we are generally fatigued – we could take a shot of vitamin B12 to energise cells – so why not add B12 to a cocktail for the skin to give it a boost? It’s the same with our latest Complexion Cocktail with a shot of H2Omega – it gives an instant boost to dehydrated skin. This product contains Chia Oil – which is  go-to resource for long distance runners in hot climates.

You often say that Time Bomb is about ‘Ageing Victoriously’. What does Ageing Victoriously mean to you?

Being the best you can. That doesn’t mean trying to look like a kid. take care of your skin- it’s about having a healthy complexion rather than worrying about lines. Dehydrated unhealthy skin is ageing. You want to aim for a fresh, glowing look.

What one tip would you give women over 50 when it comes to skincare?

I would say look closely look at your cleanser. Look for one that contains magnesium oxide which helps buff away dead skin cells.

What’s your personal hero product in the Time Bomb range?

My personal favourite is the Time Bomb Secret Oil – it mimics the skin’s own sebum and really penetrates the skin well. It took us 3 years to develop.

Women want more from their skincare – especially as they age – and innovation is key.

Gail Federici certainly practices what she preaches. Her skin is incredible and her vibrancy shines through. Definitely a lady who is  ageing victoriously’!

Ceri Wheeldon

Ceri is Founder and Editor of Fabafterfifty.co.uk She is a frequent speaker at events and in the media on topics related to women over 50 , including style and living agelessly. With 20+ years experience as a headhunter Ceri also now helps support those looking to extend their working lives.

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