SUN KISSED WITHOUT THE RISKS

Despite endless dire warnings about the disastrous effects of sun on skin, most of us look and feel so much more attractive from the sun-kissed blessing of a tan. But in the depths of an English winter, when there is pastiness, pastiness all about, there's little prospect of any sort of kissing and next summer seems an awfully long way off.

So news of a development that promises an instant, streak-free, natural-looking tan should be welcome. With none of the risks associated with sun tanning nor solar tanning parlours, it is claimed, this system offers a spray technique with specially formulated lotions that are said to be easy to use and take only a few minutes to treat the whole body.

From Nuress, it could be the answer to lily white legs. At £69.99, it is certainly cheaper than a trip to the Caribbean. www.nuress.com

TAKE A MUDBATH FOR TWO ON THE THAMES

Latest pampering indulgence for couples wishing to enjoy spa treatments together is available at the newly opened Radisson Edwardian Hotel at the New Providence Wharf in Canary Wharf.  Here, splendid spa and gym facilities look out over the River Thames.

Especially for twosomes is the Take Two package, including a selection of extravagant treatments.  The Cleopatra Mud Bathing experience, for example, involves applying toning muds and natural salts to the body in a private steam chamber as cleansing steam is jetted out of a crystal ball.  The mud bath is followed by a massage treatment for the couple, and ends in suitable style with champagne and strawberries served in the relaxation room.

Its position should make this spa popular with City types, but the hotel also makes an attractive destination for a trip along the river, with modern bars and terraces on the riverside.  A splendid opening party took place one warm autumn evening in October, when the tout monde of London partied the night away.  Well worth a visit. www.radissonedwardian.com

ITS BACK TO THE CAVEMAN

Three million years ago, Fred Flintstone was getting rid of his beard with the aid of a flintstone – no doubt at his mate’s urging.  What’s more, he used fragrant oils to cleanse and soften his skin, putting a whole new complexion on the caveman image.

That’s the findings of the latest men’s grooming company on the block, which has taken man’s earliest shaving tool for its own name - Flint Edge. Ratan Daryani is the man behind it, a former senior executive at Body Shop and co-founder of Virgin Cosmetics, who therefore knows a thing or two about toiletries.

“Flint Edge has been created to appeal to the stylish, masculine man who cares about his overall appearance,” he explains, “but doesn’t have time to mess around with too many lotions and potions.”

Divided into shaving, sport and styling products, it is British made and packed and one of its first retail outlets is the grand new men’s room at Fortnum & Mason.