● Laura Thornberry ● Lifestyle Blogger ● London Based ●: Search results for face masks

AD - GIFTED | Putting together a stocking for your friends/girlfriend, your sisters or female relatives shouldn't be a hard task as there are endless possibilities as to what to include. As seen in my Men's Gift Guide for this year, I chose 5 items to include in that. However, for my Women's version, narrowing it down to 5 was simply impossible! So I've chosen 6 gifts that I think would make great stocking fillers for any woman in your life.

Gift 1 - Chocolate

The first stocking filler is obviously a box of chocolates. Who doesn't love receiving chocolate? Such a classic gift that is just an essential, there are so many varieties and flavours to choose from, but you can't go wrong with a box of Cadburys Buttons.

Gift 2 - Body Scrubs

Next up is a beauty product that is absolutely perfect for this time of year. Say goodbye to dry, winter skin, instead keep it super soft and silky with this gorgeous scrub. A yummy blend of oozy salted caramel and rich, nutty macadamia oil is the perfect combination for super soft skin.

Women's Stocking Fillers Gift Guide 2019

Gift 3 - Face Masks

Who doesn't love a good face mask? Dry skin? Oily skin? Dull skin? You name it, there is a face mask out there to help combat your skin worries, and have you glowing in no time. I picked up this 7th Heaven Assorted Face Mask 5 Pack, that comes with a great variety to test out, including mud, clay, peel-off and sauna masks.

Gift 4 - Reed Diffuser

Another stocking filler that would be great for anyone is a reed diffuser. They come in such an array of scents and fragrances, that there is definitely one to suit everyone. I picked up the Winter Spice from Primark Home, and it's the perfect scent to make your home smell cosy and Christmassy! An absolute steal at just £1.50.

Gift 5 - Lavera Body Care Duo*

If you don't receive some kind of bath or body care product in your stocking, is it really Christmas? I've picked out this gorgeous gift set from Lavera which includes a body wash and body lotion sweetly scented with organic plum and vanilla - the perfect festive scents!

Gift 6 - Christmas Jigsaw Puzzle

Isn't a jigsaw so nostalgic of Christmas? It's a great way to get everyone together, have fun and spend some quality time with your friends and family. I picked this Santa jigsaw up from The Works for just £3!

What stocking fillers are you giving the girls in your life this Christmas?

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Stuck at home? Me too! We're back in lockdown again, but that shouldn't stop you from taking time out of your day and do some things to help pamper and look after yourself. Self care is a must have and extremely valuable in this current climate of a global pandemic, and is definitely something to incorporate into your daily routine. Feeling isolated can really get you feeling low, unmotivated and start making you feel a little unhappy, but doing something to make you feel better, no matter how big or small, can really boost your mood and cheer you up during these uncertain times.

Here are 5 lockdown beauty hacks that I've been adding into my day to day life and are 5 things I recommend you do to!

Since we're all staying at home, one thing that is super important is letting your skin breathe. None of us are really wearing any/much make up and this gives us the opportunity to focus on our skincare goals and make some sort of routine. For me, I've made sure to really try and stick to a skincare routine, cleansing properly, exfoliating my skin and weekly face masks to keep my skin glowing throughout the colder months.

A goal of mine in 2021 is to take much better care of my hair, keep it in healthy condition, and ultimately attempt to grow it longer. Throughout the previous lockdowns, weekly hair masks have been a thing, and will continue making an appearance into my haircare routine, in a bid to keep my hair healthy, soft and shiny, even during this extreme cold weather. During the winter months, coconut oil has become my best friend. I like to use this as an overnight treatment, massaging the oil from root to tip, in order to deeply condition and nourish my hair, and simply rinse out in the morning.

Coronavirus and lockdown has us washing our hands countless times a day followed up by hand sanitiser gel, walking outdoors to get our daily exercise, but all this will definitely take a toll on your hands and fee. It's super important to take care of them also! Moisturising hand creams and cuticle oils are the perfect combination to keep your hands looking and feeling nourished. And for the feet, I've been opting for moisturising foot masks and luxurious lotions to keep my feet soft and smooth.

Another lockdown beauty hack I've been using is skin dermaplaning. This is something that I've been doing every 3-4 weeks to improve the appearance and texture of my skin. Dermaplaning is an exfoliating treatment that removes peach fuzz and dead skin with the tiny scrape of a scalpel. I like to make sure my skin is well moisturised before treatment to help the blade glide over my face, without causing any injury. For this, I simply use a hydrating facial oil to keep my skin lubricated throughout. I picked up my dermaplaning tools from Amazon, and have noticed a big change in health of my skin. From the very first use, my skin was definitely softer and smoother, more radiant and glowy.

Finally, body care. Body exfoliation and moisturising can be quite the chore, but with a lot more time on our hands during lockdown, it's definitely something we should consider to help lift our spirits during these times. A simple beauty hack of regular exfoliation increases the skin's radiance, clarity, and youthfulness, and that's just the start. There are so many benefits from a couple minutes scrubbing in the shower, and of course you'll be left with the silkiest, softest skin possible! Followed up by your favourite body moisturiser or lotion, and you're good to go!

What lockdown beauty hacks are you using? Will you be adding any of the beauty hacks mentioned above into your daily routine?

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The Origins Clear Improvement Mask seems to be a well raved about blogger's favourite product. Origins is a brand that I'd been interested in for a while, and this mask seems to be renowned in the blogging world as a 'holy grail product', but at £22 a tube, to me that did seem like a lot for just a face mask! But you know, as a more "high end" skincare product that I wanted to see what the hype was, I happily parted with the cash in hope it would help unclog and clear my skin! I have combinations skin (dry and oily) so I was hoping that this would be a great addition to my skincare routine and that my skin would love the stuff!

"When environmental pollutants, dirt and debris get under your skin, its waste-filtering system gets jammed, pores get clogged, skin looks cloudy. Nature's complexion clean-up crew in Origins Clear Improvement gets to the bottom of skins overcast condition and clears the way for it to act its best. Activated Charcoal acts like a magnet to draw out pore-cloggers, White China Clay absorbs environmental pollutants, Lecithin dissolves impurities. Without all that "stuff" down there, skin "breathes a sigh of relief."

Before purchasing this face mask, I was using the Boots Botanics Shine Away Ionic Clay Mask, which I do still use now and again, and really do love. It has similar features to the Origins mask, but sometimes it can be slightly too drying on the skin and can irritate my skin if left on too long, so I opted to try the Origins mask.

Like any normal mask, I simply use this once/twice a week, whilst opening my pores with warm face towel and layering mask on so that my face is evenly covered. I then allow it to dry, where you are at the face cracking tightness stage and then rinse well with water, and cleanse afterwards. After washing it off, I could really tell the difference due to how my skin feels and looks, even after the first use. My skin felt super clean, extremely soft, and very glowing which really brightened up my usual dull looking skin. I have also seen an improvement in the oiliness of my skin, has definitely reduced, especially around my t-zone, nose and chin, which is a definite bonus!

Overall, I was very pleased with the Origins Clear Improvement mask and can see why so many people rave about the stuff! It is definitely something that has become a staple in my skincare routine, alongside a couple of other masks, but I generally use the Origins one when my skin is really bad or I have a lot of blemishes. At £22 it is a little steep, but a little does go along way with this mask, but if you wanted a similar product on a drugstore budget, I would definitely recommend the Boots Botanics Ionic Clay Mask, as I love that just as much!

Have you used the Origins Clear Improvement Mask before?

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AD - GIFTED | Are you planning on a homemade hamper this Mother's Day, but unsure on where or how to start?

A DIY Mothers Day Hamper is guaranteed to make any Mum feel extremely spoilt and loved! Sometimes a homemade and personalised gift can be super special and just as thoughtful as a ready-made present. The reason I think a DIY gift is better is simply due to the fact you can personalise and include some gifts that you know will be loved. Personalised hampers don't have to cost a lot. There are so many gift ideas out there, that you can still put together a gorgeous hamper on an affordable budget, or if you really want to make a luxury hamper, there's also the opportunity for that.

Pretty packaging and presentation can really take your DIY hamper go from 0 to 100. This will be helping to make your gift look more spectacular and special, and can even help to personalise your gift to your receivers preferences.

Firstly, you'll want to decide what hamper you want to go for. Depending on your budget, you could put together a more relaxed modern style with a decorative gift box/bag or opt for a more traditional wicker hamper. I'd recommend looking online, in local garden centres, homeware stores or charity shops to find a suitable container for your homemade gift hamper. It may also be worth finding one that can be reused over and over again, as something decorative or as a storage solution.

Affordable Mother's Day Hamper

For those who are looking for a low-cost, affordable DIY hamper, the products I have featured in the photo above could be some really great options for you to include in your homemade gift. First up, who doesn't love receiving some chocolates?! I've opted for Maltesers as I know they are a favourite and will definitely go down a treat. Face masks and foot masks are the ultimate pamper, and for me, are an essential for any DIY hamper. I picked these up from Superdrug as they have such an affordable and extensive selection. Not only is ALDI a good place for food, but they also have a stunning range of candles and reed diffusers, extremely similar to those from Jo Malone. My favourite scent is definitely the Pomegranate range, a super luxury and affordable fragrance to add to your home.

A handbag must have from Benecos is the Orange Lip Balm*. Packed with natural and organic ingredients include Organic Orange Oil along with Organic Shea Butter, it's an essential for soft and smooth lips. Lavera is a great brand if you want some high quality and natural beauty/pamper products, perfect for Mother's Day. First of all, the Soft Purity Shower Gel*. The natural gentle, soft foaming, cleansing ingredients doesn't strip your skin of it's natural oils. Formulated with Organic Algae and Organic Water Mint thoroughly and effectively cleanses and nourishes your skin leaving it feeling refreshed and silky soft. The Hydro Sensation Gel cream* gives intensive moisture to your skin, leaving your skin feeling soft and smooth with a youthful radiance and a perfect glow. Finally, the Very Berry Hand Wash*. The perfect addition, especially during the current coronavirus pandemic. Formulated with a delicious aroma of organic goji berry and organic acai, these moisturising and nourishing ingredients will leave your hands pleasantly soft and smooth

Luxury Mother's Day Hamper

For those wanting to go that extra mile and really push the boat out with a more luxurious DIY hamper, the products I have featured in the photo above could be worth including in your personalised gift. Starting off with the gorgeous Giorgio Armani Si perfume. This scent is chic, sultry, intense and soft at the same time, with deep aromas of fruity and floral notes. Heyland & Whittle is a great brand for those who love room fragrances and scents. I picked up the Clementine & Prosecco fragrance gift set as I think this is such a delightful combination; the fragrance is light and sweet, fruity and sparkling, perfect for a happy and uplifting Mother's Day gift. Again, chocolates is a must have, and these delicious Milk Chocolate selection box from Marks & Spencer looks exquisite. Also from Marks & Spencer is the Normandy Apple sparkling juice, an alternative for those not wanting to add a bottle of champagne, prosecco or wine.

Finishing up with some beauty products to help with the perfect pamper evening on Mother's Day. Soap & Glory are my ultimate favourite brand when it comes to skin and body care. They have such a vast selection of products and ranges that you'll be spoilt for choice. Faces masks scream relaxation to me, and this Miracle Moisture Mask is one of the best ones that I've tried. So refreshing, hydrating and moisturising. Finally, a newer brand I've discovered; Million Dollar Facial. Two of the best selling products that I would recommend would be the Million Dollar Medi+ Hydrating Elixir* and Medi+ Glyco Wash*.

What gifts will you be gifting on Mother's Day? Have you thought of compiling your own hamper? What would you include?

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Every time I wander into Boots to pick up a replacement shampoo or hair mask, I always see the bright blue packaging of Maui Haircare sat on the shelf, calling my name. But at £8.99 a product, I do find that to be a little expensive when I can purchase my regular shampoos, conditioners and treatments for around the same price combined. However, I would one day love to give them a try, I've heard so much good things about them, over countless reviews. If i was to pick them up, I would definitely be drawn towards the range specific to dry hair, Shampoo, Conditioner and Oil Mist all infused with Coconut Milk, encouraging nourishment and providing moisture to hair, which is exactly what I look for in haircare products, as cold weather and using heat on hair is a nightmare whilst trying to keep healthy, strong hair.

The Ordinary took over the skincare game in 2017, and I am yet to try anything of theirs as of yet. I've seen many a review and nearly every single product hyped over, so this prompted me to add something from their range to my wishlist. Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is the product at the top of my shopping list from The Ordinary. Hyaluronic Acid can attract up to 1,000 times its weight in water, and after these harsh, cold winter months, my skin will definitely need some moisture and hydration. With a price tag of just £5.99, this is something I am 100% going to be trying out, and if it makes a difference in my skincare routine, it would be something I would repurchase as it is so affordable!

Something on the more higher end of skincare is the much loved Kiehls Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado. I've heard so many good things about this product that it is something I would love to try for myself. If I'm being honest, I always forget about using eye creams and serums, but I do know that the eye area is one of the first places prone to ageing and changes in the skin. gently moisturise the delicate eye area. This does sound like a great skincare essential that would gently moisturise the delicate eye area, but at £22.50 for 14ml a pot, is it worth the hype?

Another skincare product to add to my online basket, the Soap & Glory Speed Plump Miracle Moisture Mask. I love face masks, they are the perfect pamper session essential, and the best way to relax and unwind after a long, tiring day. I really like some of the Soap and Glory skincare, especially the Speed Plump Overnight Miracle Moisture Mousse, so I am hoping the Moisture Mask could be another favourite added to my collection.

Newly released are the L'Oréal Paris Smooth Sugar Face and Lip Scrubs, coming in 3 different variations; Kiwi - to clear, Grapeseed to glow, and Cocoa - to nourish. I've used a variety of L'Oréal Paris skincare before, my favourites being the Pure Clay masks and washes, to which have become staples in my skincare routine. The scrubs look like a great addition to my collection, in order to reduce texture and create softer, smoother skin, as well as to hydrate and brighten, which is definitely what my skins need after the winter months. RRP £9.99

What products are on your wishlist? Have you reviewed any I have mentioned above?

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Kicking things off this month in the beauty front, a haircare favourite of mine has been the OGX Kukui Oil Shampoo/Conditioner. This haircare duo is formulated to help hydrate and defrizz your hair, something I definitely need after my locks have taken a battering from this harsh, winter weather. I've noticed when I use this shampoo and conditioner, my hair definitely feels smoother and silkier, and just looks a lot shinier and healthy looking. Also I adore the scent of these, its what I'd think a tropical island would smell like, so sweet and fresh! I would highly recommend the Kukui range, as well as the other varieties OGX has to offer, as they work wonders for my hair and are super affordable!

Another beauty favourite this month has been The Body Shop Smoky Poppy Shower Gel, a product I have used in pretty much every bath/shower this month, and I'm so upset that is has finally run out. The scent of this is to die for, to me it's very manly, like an aftershave sort of smell, that I actually find really deep and sexy. The shower gel lathers up really well and leaves a slight scent on your skin once your out the shower, nothing to overpowering, just a slight linger. I really like The Body Shop shower gels as a whole, as I find the scents to be really lovely and fresh, affordable and they leave my skin feeling nourished and hydrated, without being too drying.

I love face masks. They are my favourite part of my skincare routine and I love trying and testing new ones, to see which ones work best for my skin type. Recently I had the opportunity to try out the AA Skincare Frankincense and Rose Deep Cleansing Face Mask. This specific mask features essential oils, these help to really nourish the skin and leave it feeling moisturised, leaving my skin feeling plump and bright, something it definitely needs with this cold weather, I want to look glowing and hydrated.

A new addition to my monthly favourites, but my favourite blogger of the month has definitely got to be Em from EmTalks. She is just all kinds of goals! I've really been enjoying reading her fitness and health posts, as these have really helped to motivate me and help me with my fitness routine and starting to adapt my lifestyle to lead a more fit and healthy life. As well as that, I love reading her blog on a daily basis as there is always something on there to read and catch up with, from food posts, beauty posts, travel and fashion, Em definitely has a blog that you should be following!

As a goal of mine in regards to my health and fitness, I've ditched the fizzy drinks and have been upping my water intake, as I felt I really lacked in this and it was definitely something I wanted to improve this year. As well as just drinking water, green tea is something that I've really been enjoying and the Twinings Pineapple and Grapefruit Green Tea is just perfect! I love that the flavour isn't so overpowering and you get the right amount of juicy pineapple and sharp grapefruit, that combine to make a really lovely tea, I am quite obsessed really and already have finished one box in the space of a week.

Something more fashion related here, I've been loving H&M Lace Bras. Lingerie is something that I write about much, as it is seen as quite a taboo subject, but we all wear it so why not share the love about lingerie you have been loving. The two bras that I featured in the image above are the two that I have purchased recently and I just love them. H&M bras are just so affordable and I find them to fit really well and flatter my body shape, plus they are super pretty and super comfortable!

Last but no means least, I have recently dug out a couple of lip products from my stash, and I have fallen back in love 100%. Enter the ELF Matte Lip Colours in Tea Rose and Praline. I've been loving nude lip shades this month, and these have been my go-to lips colours, Tea Rose is more of a pink toned nude, and Praline is more of a brown tone, both shades that I find really wearable and suited to my skin tone.

What have been your favourites this month?

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AD - GIFTED | During the warmer months of the year, my skincare routine changes ever so slightly, incorporating more lightweight and hydrating products, to help keep my skin moisturised, radiant and glowy. However, I always use hydrating products to keep my skin healthy and happy. Hydrating products are all about increasing the water content in your skin cells themselves. I tend to use hydrating creams, serums and masks to help boost my skins appearance. Hydrated skin is smooth, radiant and has an even tone. To achieve this, you need to quench your skin’s thirst from time to time.

As well as using hydrating products, there are a number of tips you can start adding into your daily routine to help with hydration, that require minimum effort and you can begin using straight away.

- Drink An Adequate Amount Of Water

- Avoid Very Hot And Long Showers

- Pamper Yourself With Face Masks/Sheets

-Eat Foods Rich In Water

One skincare product that I've really been enjoying using is the The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5. I generally use this at night time as a more hydration serum, and it sinks into my skin almost immediately after application. I don't find it too sticky at all and my skin feels very soft and plump afterwards. When I wake up in the morning, my skin looking brighter, more radiant and fresh.

A new addition to my current skincare routine has been the Lavera Hydro Sensation Gel Cream*. This hydrating gel moisturiser has been the perfect product to use in the morning during the warmer months as it's super lightweight, quickly absorbs into the skin and leaves your skin looking radiant and glowy. This moisturiser features natural, organic ingredients including Hyaluronic Acid and Algae to help give a light, fresh and hydrating feel to your skin, whilst retaining all the moisture that is needed when your skin is feeling slightly dry.

Alongside the Lavera Gel Cream, I've also been adding the Lavera Hydro Sensation Serum* to my morning skincare routine after washing/cleansing my skin. The lightweight serum uses hydrating ingredients of Hyaluronic Acid and Organic Algae which go deeper into the skin to give long lasting moisture to smooth wrinkles and plump the skin. Perfect to use under moisturisers for that extra added hydration when your skin really needs it.

A product I've mentioned previously is the Simple Hydration Booster. It's been a favourite of mine for a while and is my go-to product when areas of my skin are feeling drier than usual. I mentioned this product back in my Winter Skin Favourites and have been using it ever since. This has been such a great product to use before my moisturiser, as I am able to target the drier areas of my skin, helping me get that skin glow and leaving it looking and feeling healthy.
The Simple Hydrating Booster facial moisturiser has been designed to reverse 5 signs of dehydration: dryness, roughness, feelings of tightness, dullness and dehydration lines.

Lastly, one of my absolute favourites has been the Revolution Hyaluronic Acid Overnight Mask. I've only recently started to use Revolution skincare and so far I've been super impressed! The perfect addition to your routine to hydrate your skin overnight with this Hyaluronic Acid infused treatment. Formulated with Sweet Almond Oil to encourage smooth and soft skin and Vitamin E to moisturise. I generally use this mask 1-2 times per week, and apply a thin layer to freshly cleansed skin before I go to sleep.

What are your current skincare favourites?

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When it comes to skincare, I like to keep my routines as basic as possible to make sure I don't overload my skin and apply too many products. I recently shared my winter skincare favourites, which included some amazing and affordable products that have helped keep my skin healthy and happy.

If you have seen this post, then you would have noted that I spoke about the Simple x Little Mix Hydrating Booster - a super lightweight formula facial moisturiser designed to reverse 5 signs of dehydration: dryness, roughness, feelings of tightness, dullness and dehydration lines. As I really enjoyed using this product from the Simple x Little Mix collection, I wanted to branch out and test out a few more items, (I picked up 4 items in total) see how they compared and see if they improved my skin.

The first product I decided I wanted to test is the Moisturising Facial Wash. Formulated for a gentle cleanse - it helps remove dirt, oil and makeup that can clog pores, without leaving skin feeling dry or tight. Enriched with vitamin B5, known to actively restore, soften, and smooth skin, this cleansing wash is especially good for dry or sensitive skin. I've been using this simply with some warm water and a face cloth for a gentle cleanse on an everyday basis, or with my facial cleansing brush for a more deep cleanse - once or twice a week when necessary.

Simple x Little Mix Rich Moisture Sheet Mask

If you're looking for something that really gives your skin that boost of hydration, the Rich Moisture Sheet Mask is what you need to try. Packed with rose extract, agave extract and natural fibres, this sheet mask is formulated to give your skin "16 days worth of moisturiser in just one application" - just what you need when the cold winter air has really dried out your skin! I tend to reach for sheet masks a couple of times a month, when needed, or when my normal skincare routine just isn't enough and I need extra moisture and nourishment.

I've previously mentioned the Hydrating Booster on my blog in another post, so I won't talk about it for too long. This has been such a great product to use before my moisturiser, as I am able to target the drier areas of my skin. It absorbs into the skin really quickly, and doesn't leave the skin feeling greasy or tacky. This is a product I generally use when I think my skin needs some extra hydration - mainly around my cheeks and nose.

Simple x Little Mix Under-Eye Hydrogel Mask

The Under-Eye Hydrogel Mask is perfect for those who suffer with puffy eyes and dark circles. If you're struggling with getting enough sleep, these are definitely the magic product to use to mask any eye problems and give an illusion of a brighter, smoother and more radiant under eye. Made with natural fruit enzymes, including lemon extract and pomegranate extract, as well as vitamin b3, these help to brighten the skin and radiate that healthy glow, for a more awake and refreshed complexion. I like to use these as a skin treat once a week to help keep my under eyes hydrated and bright. Simple peel the masks off and apply to the under eye area and leave for 5 minutes. How easy could it be?

The range features the following 6 products;

Simple x Little Mix Moisturising Facial Wash 150ml

Simple x Little Mix Rich Moisture Sheet Mask

Simple x Little Mix Hydrating Booster 25ml

Simple x Little Mix Under-Eye Mask

Simple x Little Mix Biodegradable Face Wipes 20 PC

Simple x Little Mix Micellar Water 400ml

"At Simple we believe in being kind to skin, the planet and people, and that’s why we have created this Limited Edition range of Simple packs in partnership with Little Mix. In the UK, nearly 1 in 3 teens have experienced bullying online so together with Little Mix and our charity partner Ditch the Label, we are making a stand. Covered with kind words, this pack celebrates and inspires others to wipe away unkind words and instead #ChooseKindness. "

Have you tested out the Simple x Little Mix skincare collaboration? What is your favourite product?

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AD| At this current time in global affairs, dating is something that has been continuously tricky throughout 2020. Lockdown after lockdown, closures of shops, pubs and restaurants, and also having many different rules put in place, it's definitely been hard for single people to meet new potential love interests in real life. 2020 is definitely the year where dating went online, and will be something that is continued for the foreseeable future until the world gets back to normal again.

However with lockdown being recently lifted, many areas of retail and hospitality have began opening up again, including restaurants, non-essential shops/shopping centres, pubs and leisure facilities, allowing dating during the coronavirus pandemic to return to some kind of normality. It also gives us the freedom to explore more of places nearby, get some fresh air and try to live life as normally as possible, all whilst social distancing and taking necessary safety precautions.

For me, I've definitely been able to get out the house and explore more of my local, surrounding area. Living in London is great as there is always so much going on, so many places to visit, you can never get bored! But during the recent few months, I've spent time exploring areas just outside of London, including places such as Kent and Surrey that are nearby. I've learnt that there are a whole selection of great places and things to do in Kent/Surrey, that they would make really cool, interesting date locations for future dates, and places that I would definitely visit.

Shopping in Kent

Date location 1 - If you're planning to spend the whole day together, Bluewater Shopping Centre could be a great location for a daytime date for the ultimate shopping and leisure experience. There's so much going on there, from shopping, eating out, watching a film in the IMAX cinema or even a visit to the trampoline park, there's definitely something to keep you entertained all day long.

Date location 2 - Another Kent dating location would be to visit the Howletts Wild Animal Park for something a little more unusual. Described as "Kent's original wildlife park, it's a unique adventure like no other!", this would be a the perfect place for a socially distanced date. You'll be able to spend time seeing all the animals that are located in the park, and even enjoy a nice picnic if the weather isn't too awful! You also have the opportunity to create some amazing memories by choosing to take part in the exciting experiences Howletts have to offer - but this will need to be checked out beforehand due to COVID to make sure everything is ok.

Exploring Outdoors in Kent

Date location 3 - 2020 has been the year of outdoor exercise, going out for walks, visiting local parks and getting some much needed fresh air. Kent is home to a large selection of beautiful outdoor spaces, including parks, gardens and beaches, you'll be spoilt for choice. Place like Westgate gardens, White Cliffs of Dover, Whitstable and Knole Park are just a few outdoor places located in Kent worth a visit. Outdoor based dates are perfect for getting to know each other without such a crowd of people surrounding you, you'll be able to talk about anything and everything, as well as seeing some spectacular scenery.

Have you been on any dates recently? What date locations would you like to visit?

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AD - GIFTED | How long has it been since you've had a relaxing pamper night? Especially with the current lockdown and everything going on in the world, it's extremely important to take a step back and enjoy some time to yourself, and there's nothing better than a self care pamper evening. Obviously one of the most relaxing and unwinding things to do is have a nice hot bath/shower, but there are a few other steps you can take for the ultimate pamper. So treat yourself today by checking my list of self-care tips to get inspired.

1. First things first, skincare. Is there anything better than taking your makeup off after a long day, and just feeling extremely refreshed and revitalized. I like to use a hot cloth cleanser to take off any makeup, as its extremely gentle on the eyes for those who wear mascara, eyeliner or eyeshadow. I would then opt for a facial exfoliator, or a face wash with my cleansing brush, for a deeper clean, even followed up by a face mask for that super skin detox. This leaves my skin feeling super soft and smooth. Finishing up with any products that I would use in my skincare routine, depending on my current skin needs. During the winter time, I'm ALL about hydration and getting that skin glow. Moisturising creams, serums, oils are winter essentials, and don't forget that lip balm!

2. Next up, haircare. Washing, drying and styling your hair can seem like such a chore, but applying a luxurious hair mask beforehand makes it so much more worthwhile. Hair masks that make my hair silky, smooth and shiny are my absolute must haves, as well as leaving my hair smelling delicious. I make sure to brush my hair thoroughly before applying my hair mask, and make sure each strand is covered from root to tip, and leave it to get to work for as long as possible, sometimes even overnight! I've also recently added the OGX Kukui Oil duo and The Hair Boss Overnight Serum to my haircare routine, and my hair has never looked better. So soft, nourished and super shiny.

3. After having a nice warm, relaxing bath/shower, it's a must have to put on some super cosy and comfy loungewear/pyjamas. Oversized is a must have as there is nothing worse than tight, uncomfortable clothing. I recently posted some super comfy loungewear finds from FemmeLuxe - think oversized joggers and cute matching co-ords!

4. Creating a cosy environment is an essential part of making your evening super relaxing and calm. Make sure to be lighting some candles, grabbing all the fluffy blankets and cushions, you could even hang up some cute fairy lights. Having a cosy environment around you can help to de-stress and give you a break from your daily routine.

5. Something that I've been including recently in my pamper routine is making a warm, relaxing drink. I've really been enjoying the Organic India Teas* and found these to really help destress and unwind during the colder evenings. My favourite is definitely the Tulsi Pomegranate Green Tea*. Infused with Pomegranate and Hibiscus flowers and the tangy flavour of Raspberries is a delightful combination and the perfect drink to have in the evenings. Tulsi is a great addition as it rich in antioxidants and can help to boost your immune system. The Organic India Teas are extremely relaxing, warming and delicious, and a must try for those who love green tea or even if you want a break from the usual coffee, tea or hot chocolate!

6. One part of your self care evening should be treating yourself to your favourite foods and drinks. There's nothing more comforting than ordering/making your favourite dishes, followed with a glass of your favourite drink to lift your spirits. There's so many great choices, whether you're a lover of pasta, pizza, Chinese, Indian, Mexican, the options are never ending, and there is always food to fit your mood.

7. Finally, get comfy and sit back and watch your favourite films/series. Whether you pick something from Netflix, Disney+, YouTube or just something on the TV, it's the perfect way to spend the rest of your evening. I'm currently watching Orange Is The New Black, and I'm hooked!

What are your self care pamper essentials?

09:00 1 comments

AD| When it comes to skincare, it can be such a struggle to find products that are suitable for your skin type, suit your personal budget and actually work. My skincare routine is never always the same, as I need to change and swap out products that I'm using, depending on my skin needs at the time. I mentioned in my last blog post some of my current favourite skincare products that have been helping me to improve my skin through the summer, and as the weather is turning colder. But something I have been reading up on at the moment is CBD skincare, and the benefits this has when used within skincare. Many brands are starting to incorporate CBD into their skincare products, making it accessible to all, regardless of your budget.

CBD for skincare is something that has become more popular than ever and emerging as a miracle product in the skincare world. It's becoming increasingly common in the beauty industry, but what is CBD Oil? And how are you supposed to use it? CBD is short for cannabidiol - a natural compound found in cannabis plants- a product being marketed in skin care products for everything from acne to wrinkles, which would make it a great option for all skin types. Typically, CBD oil is used in a large variety of skincare products, including serums, creams, masks, and body and face oils, so there is definitely a product for whatever skin concerns you may have. In addition to its calming properties, the biggest and most prominent benefits of CBD include anti-ageing, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

With having anti-inflammatory properties, CBD oil itself may help to stop the overproduction of skin oil that causes oily, blemish prone acne skin, and to control the production of sebum in the skin layers. CBD can reduce inflammation of breakouts and, regulate oil production in the skin, and eventually reduce breakouts in general.

CBD is known to be a powerful antioxidant that can help with preventing signs on ageing and wrinkles, and it can also help protect the body from harmful free-radical damage. As well as this, CBD has also been tested and proven to work on any fine lines or dark spots that may occur in the skin, making it a great product for all age categories. Antioxidants help skin stay more radiant and youthful looking longer. It also has great moisturizing and hydrating properties that can help combat dehydrated and dry skin, making it a great addition to your skincare routines during the colder, winter months.

As well as in skincare products, CBD Oil is said to help also help those suffering with anxiety, sleeping disorders and pain control, making it a great product to add to your daily routine and a skincare favourite for a lot of people. CBD is also a great healer of specific skin conditions, including eczema and Psoriasis. Incorporating CBD into your skincare is a great idea, especially if you need some extra hydration, protection or relief from dry, itchy skin!

Have you used CBD Oil?

19:00 No comments

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