One of my goals for 2020 is to grow, take better care of my hair, and make sure to keep it in the healthiest condition it has ever been. I've also vowed to try and use less heat tools on my hair, mainly hair straighteners, to prevent dryness, breakage and split ends. Over the years I've stuck to the same haircare brands and the same products - which I have really enjoyed using - but I have decided that it's time to change things up, try something new and see what products work best for my hair type. In terms of my hair type, I have medium length, natural, dark blonde hair which is mostly straight but with a slight wave to it in parts. I've also never dyed my hair which has kept my hair in a good condition.

Below are a number of hair masks, oils and serums that I have chosen will aim to help add moisture and hydration, prevent frizz and breakage, as well as adding shine and sleekness to my hair, that I think will help to achieve my hair goals for 2020.

Wishlist - Garnier Ultimate Blends Hair Food Coconut 3 in 1 Mask / Bondi Boost Miracle Mask 250ml / Shea Moisture Super fruit Masque 326ml

Hair Masks are a great way to really give your hair a deep and thorough condition. They have similar benefits as a conditioner—like deeply nourishing and strengthening hair—but are more intense and powerful. Hair masks can also target any specific hair concerns you may have, which for me would be frizz, dry ends and dullness. I always look for super hydrating hair masks, usually enriched with nourishing oils, that will really add some moisture back into my hair. I really want to try and aim to be using hair masks 1-2 times a week to really help keep my hair moisturised and nourished, as the colder weather can really damage it and make it dry.

Wishlist - VO5 Nourishing Coconut Hot Oil 4x15ml / OUAI Hair Oil 50ml / HASK Argan Shine Oil Pump 100ml

Hair Oils are a great way to control frizz, tame flyaway and add shine to your hair. They are super lightweight and don't weigh your hair down or make it greasy. I tend to use oils on the mid-lengths and ends of my hair, on freshly washed hair or on dry hair to lock in some moisture and help with shine. I like using oils that contain avocado, Argan, coconut or macadamia nut, as for me, these provide the most moisture for my hair and help to boost the appearance/texture of my hair.

Wishlist - John Frieda Frizz-Ease Extra Strength 6 Effects + Serum 50ml / L'Oréal Dream Lengths Frizz Killer Serum / Lee Stafford Cactus Crush Dazzle Drops 50ml / VO5 Heat Protect Serum

Hair Serums are another treatment that I like to use on a day to day basis. One of the main use of hair serum is that it makes the hair shinier, healthier and causes less tangles. They are perfect for using on washed hair or when styling hair. I always pick up serums that will really benefit my hair needs - mainly to help prevent frizz, split ends, to add shine or to protect from heat.

What products are on your haircare Wishlist's? What products would you recommend?

10:00 No comments

I'm pretty sure that every girls dream is to have long, healthy flowing locks, which can be very hard to achieve and manage, but I have devised my top 10 tips that I follow to help promote and help with hair growth. Now, I am no expert when it comes to hair care, but these 10 tips are factors that I like to take on board to help look after my hair and keep it healthy and strong.

1. Try Not To Use Heat / Little Heat As Possible

First time, and I'm sure we are all aware of this one! We all know that heat is one of the most damaging factors to our hair and is something you shouldn't use or try to use as little as possible. Heat can cause damage to your hair, breaking the strength of hair, causes dead ends, and ultimately breaks off you hair. When blow drying my hair, I like to make sure my hair is around 80% dry, before blow drying on a low, cool setting for a couple of minutes to prevent heat damage, as well as straightening on a low temperature. Yes, there are time we want to blow dry, straighten or curl our hair, buts its so important to use a heat defence treatment to help prevent damage to our locks. I like to use the TRESemme Protect Heat Defence Styling Spray, as this protects my hair up to 230°c, as well as smoothing any frizz and sealing in shine.

2. Get Your Hair Trimmed Regularly

Getting your hair trimmed every so often, allows you to get rid of all the dead, split ends, which is an essential must for healthy looking hair. Trimming your hair also reduces hair breakage and damage. I usually get my hair trimmed every 8 - 10 weeks, removing about half an inch from the ends, which gets rid of any damaged, broken hair, as well as any split ends, which could travel up your hair, if left untrimmed and untreated. In-between trims, I like to use hair oils and treatments to help prevent split ends and damaged hair.

3. Having a Healthy, Balanced Diet

Now you're probably thinking what does your diet have with hair growth and sustaining healthy hair, but it is a very important factor! Since your hair is made from proteins, it is very important to make sure you are getting enough protein in your diets, whether it be from chicken, fish, eggs, cheese, nuts or pulses for example, these play an important role in keeping your hair healthy. These foods will help promote healthy keratin production, which are the building blocks of hair. Also, drinking plenty of water with help to promote a healthy scalp. Without drinking water, your hair and skin are the first places to show the most noticeable dehydration and dryness.

4. Massaging Your Scalp

Now, this is something we can all do, at any time of the day. Massaging the scalp for 15-20 minutes a day helps to stimulate the blood circulation to the hair follicles of the scalp, which helps to promote growth. This means more oxygen and nutrients are being delivered to the scalp, which is good for hair growth. Even massaging your hair whilst you are shampooing or applying your hair mask can help to increase the blood flow!

5. Avoid Washing Your Hair Everyday

This is definitely one of the most important and most useful tips if you are wanting to grow your hair! Washing your hair everyday means you are washing away all the natural oils that your hair produces that are essential for hair growth. Washing these oils away is unhealthy for your hair and can leave it looking dry and rough. I try to wash my hair every 3-4 days, and if my hair is looking a but dull or lacking volume/shine, I spritz in a bit of Batiste Tropical Dry Shampoo, to give my hair a little boost, so I get an extra day without washing.

6. Switch Up Your Shampoos + Conditioners

This is a tip that I learnt about recently and it is definitely something that does help hair growth. At the moment, I currently have 3 shampoos (Aussie Luscious Long Shampoo, John Frieda Volume Shampoo and Headmasters SOS Moisture Shampoo) and 2 conditioners on the go (Aussie 3 Minute Miracle and Headmasters SOS Moisture Conditioner), in order to help me switch up my hair products. This tip stops your hair getting used to the products and helps to avoid product build up on the scalp, which would lead to oily/greasy hair.

7. Avoid Very Tight Hairstyles

Avoiding tight hairstyles on a regular basis is important for hair growth. Having your hair tightly done will increase the likeliness for breakage and hair loss. Having your hair in loose plaits or ponytails, or leaving your hair down is a lot better and relaxing for your hair. Also, if you are tying your hair up in any way, make sure to use the hair bands without the metal part, as your hair can get stuck in these, and cause damage and breakage.

8. Use Oil Treatments and Essential Oils

This is something that I've only been doing for the past few months, but already I have seen a huge difference in the appearance of my hair. Using oils on the hair helps to nourish, smooth and enhance shine, as well as taming any frizz of fly aways, all leading to stronger and healthier hair. I generally only use oils on the tips of my hair, to help heal any split ends and help my hair feel softer and smoother. Also using oil treatments/masks is a great way to add some much needed moisture and hydration to your hair. Using natural oils like Olive Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Coconut Oil or Almond Oil, and massaging it gently through the scalp, leaving on for up to 1 hour before washing, is a great way to boost your hairs appearance!

9. Brush Your Hair Carefully

Now this might seem like a bit of a no brainer, but making sure you brush your hair carefully is an important step to stop your hair from breaking and snapping. Brushing your hair to excess can actually pull hairs out of the scalp and therefore cause hair loss. Not something we want! If you are brushing your hair after its been washed, make sure you leave it to dry naturally (about 80% dry) before taking a comb through it, as well as using a detangling spray or leave in conditioner!

10. Use A Weekly Hair Mask

Using a hair mask is such an easy step into making your hair stronger and healthier. There are so many different hair masks on the market, you will most definitely find one to suit your hair type, as it is important to use the correct one. When I apply a hair mask, I like to use it on freshly washed, towel dried hair, when I take a wide comb to brush the mask from root to tip, to make sure all my hair is covered. Make sure you use a mask every week, and your hair will stay very shiny, soft, and healthy!

What are your tips for hair growth? What products do you use to keep your hair healthy and strong?

14:11 No comments

Hello lovelies! Hope you are all well!

A while back now, I asked on Twitter is anyone would be interested in seeing my guide to a pamper evening, and I've just got round to writing it up now.

From time to time, we all have those long, miserable days where we've been stressed, whether it be from work, school, college/uni or just general life problems. Now and again, I think its important to make ourselves feel better and give yourself a little pamper to perk us up! A little "me time" is definitely in order as a way to de-stress, relax and refresh ourselves.

I've devised my 10 tips for My Guide to The Perfect Pamper, so lets get started!

1. Run a Nice, Relaxing Hot Bath
This is probably the best way to relax and take a time out from life! With a few luxurious bath products, some gorgeous scented candles and some dimmed lights, this creates the perfect calm and relaxing atmosphere.
I love using the Radox Bubble Baths! They have some absolutely gorgeous scents and all help to make you feel calm and relaxed!

2. Remove your Make Up

Removing your make up after a long day is a must! This allows you to remove all the dirt and grime you skin has had to deal with and puts the day behind you. Its also important to cleanse and refresh your skin, and give it a little boost!
I generally remove my make up with the L'oreal Micellar Water and the L'oreal Cleansing & Perfecting Milk.

3. Use a Hair Mask

We all want soft, silky and healthy hair, and using hair masks is a great way to help achieve this. There are so many different hair masks on sale, each doing a different thing, each smelling differently and each specifically for certain hair types, so this is something that EVERYONE can do! Using a hair mask once or twice a week gives your hair a luxurious condition and helps make it healthier and stronger!

Hair Masks that I've been loving include the Naked Rescue Repairing Hair Treatment, Aussie 3 Minute Miracle and THIS ONE Hair Replenishment Mask.

4. Apply a Face Mask

I absolutely love using face masks! They help to improve the appearance and feeling on the skin and helps to remove all the dirt, impurities and extra oils. Again these come in all sorts of variations from gel masks to clay masks etc, all different scents and all different skin types.

I've been loving the Una Brennan Tea Flower Clay Mask and the Boots Botanics Ionic Clay Mask.

5. Cosy Loungewear

I think that cosy loungewear is a must for a pamper evening! We all want time to relax and de-stress, and some cosy pyjamas or a onesie is the perfect attire! These just allow you to be warm and comfortable and enjoy the evening ahead!

6. Paint your Nails
This is pretty much an optional step in a pamper session, but its one that can make you feel happy and make you feel good. Painting your nails can be quite time consuming, but when you have an evening to relax, this is the perfect task to carry out when wanting to relax and be calm!

7. Grab a Nice Drink
Enjoying one of your favourite drinks is the perfect way to relax and feel comforted! Whether it be a cheeky glass of wine, a warm drink or whatever tickles your fancy, having something you like is a great way to feel relaxed and is a perfect way to feel pampered.

8. Treat Yourself

Whether its doing some online shopping, ordering your favourite meal from the takeaway or indulging in your favourite food and drinks, treating yourself after a long and stressful day is the perfect way to make you feel better!

9. Skin Care Routine

Having a continuous skin care routine is the best way to keep your skin looking great and healthy! This is perfect for refreshing yourself and revitalising your skin. Maybe for a perfect pamper evening, try choosing a product you wouldn't normally use or buy, to give your skin that extra boost of hydration and moisture!

10. Cosy up in Bed

The best way to end a perfect pamper is to cosy up in a nice, freshly made, warm bed! This is by far the best way to feel relaxed, comfortable and to end the day. Whether you like to read a book, watch a film, write up a blog post or just generally browse the internet, this allows you to settle down and create a nice atmosphere ready to sleep. Maybe lighting a few scented candles, having some comfy cushions and a super soft blanket throw is the perfect way to feel cosy and warm!

So these are my Top 10 tips to the perfect pamper evening! Obviously these don't all have to be used when you need a little pick-me-up, but including a few of these after a long, stressful day is the perfect way to make you feel better and to cheer yourself up!

What are your tips to the perfect pamper evening? What products do you use when pampering yourself?

Have you checked out my blogger of the month "A Simple Melody"?

** All images used are from Google.co.uk/not my own photography

20:04 No comments

Maui Moisture; A brand that has made its way straight into my current hair care routine. They are a brand inspired by the handpicked and handcrafted ingredients which can be found on tropical islands, such as Maui. With hair care ranges to nourish, revive, strengthen, quench and restore hair, Maui Moisture caters for all hair types and textures, offering a variety of shampoos, conditioners, hair masks and mists, combining the best formulas and ingredients needed to help keep your hair looking soft and silky.

Incorporating ingredients such as Shea Butter, Coconut, Agave, Bamboo and Vanilla Bean, combined with their signature blend of Aloe Vera juices infused with pure Coconut Water, there is definitely something for everyone. If you’re new to Maui Moisture, you're definitely missing out and need to get your hands on their products asap!

Maui Moisture Revive & Hydrate Shea Butter Hair Mask

I opted for the Maui Moisture Shea Butter Hair Mask, which is part of the Revive & Hydrate range, a product suitable for those with dry, damaged hair. For a girl that loves to blow dry, straighten and style my hair, I needed something that would keep my hair feeling strong and nourished, as well as providing deep and intense conditioning, to prevent heat damage and breakage, and this did just the job.

A hair mask packed with Aloe Vera Juice, Coconut Water, Creamy Shea Butter, Rich Coconut Oil and Pure Macadamia Oil, this was the perfect remedy to improve the look, feel and texture of my hair, especially my dry mid-lengths and ends. The scent is absolutely dreamy, so fresh and fruity, it's like being sent to a tropical paradise!

The texture of Maui Moisture Shea Butter Hair Mask is so rich and thick, you know it's going to do a great job. Packed with creamy Shea Butter and blended along with exotic Coconut and Macadamia oils softening and nourishing hair back to looking healthy and shiny.

Upon application, I like to shampoo my hair first to make sure my hair is clean and free from any product build up. I apply an egg-sized amount of product all over my hair, mainly focusing on my ends. I then gently brush through my hair to make sure each strand is coated with product, and leave for around 10 minutes and rinse. When my hair is feeling extra dry, I also like to use it as a leave-in treatment, simply apply a small amount onto freshly washed, towel-dried hair to deeply condition mid-lengths and ends."

"The next big thing in haircare, Maui Moisture takes out the bad to leave more room for the good."

Maui Moisture is crafted into 5 other amazing ranges for all different hair types and textures to help get your hair looking healthy.

Curl Quench + Coconut Oil for curly hair

Strength & Anti-Breakage + Rich Agave for chemically damaged hair

Smooth & Repair + Vanilla Bean for frizzy, unruly hair

Thicken & Restore + Bamboo Fibres for weak, brittle hair

Nourish & Moisture + Coconut Milk for dry hair

Have you ever tried anything from Maui Moisture before?

10:00 No comments

If your hair is in need of some serious TLC, you need to get your hands on the Moroccan Oil Intense Hydrating Mask; the perfect summer staple, and a real treat to add to your haircare routine. A silky and thick hydrating conditioning mask, this is suitable for those with extremely coarse, dry and heat damaged hair, a great product to try for that added hydration and nourishment, to keep your hair looking healthy and shiny all summer long.

"Moroccan Oil Intense Hydrating Mask is particularly effective for dry, thick and coarse hair as it tends to be extremely dehydrated and requires added moisture to stay healthy."

This hair mask has a super rich and creamy formula, suitably designed to hydrate and nourish dry and damaged hair. Concentrated with Argan Oil; this naturally and effectively adds hydration and shine back to dull, lifeless locks.

Directions for use are super easy to follow...

After shampooing, apply a generous amount of Moroccan Oil Intense Hydrating Mask all over the hair and comb it through so each strand of hair is covered with the mask.

Leave for around 5 to 7 minutes, which is plenty of time to help recondition and reconstruct the hair, I sometimes leave on for around 20 minutes for a more deep condition so I know it will add the much needed moisture and elasticity back to my dry hair. Make sure to rinse out well, and finish with cold water to help keep hair looking strong and shiny.

I've used the Moroccan Oil Intense Hydrating Mask for a number of weeks now, and it definitely does a great job for the hair. My hair has definitely felt a lot stronger, looked healthier and more moisturised, as well as being more manageable and shiny. The condition of my mid-lengths to ends have improved 100% since using this mask, no more dry, straw-like hair! If you like to splurge and treat yourself when it comes to haircare, this is a great product to add to your haircare routine.

However, if high-end haircare isn't for you, and you are looking for a hair mask that does a similar job to the Moroccan Oil Intense Hydrating Mask, is more easily accessible and has a more affordable price tag, I would definitely recommend the Maui Moisture Revive & Hydrate Shea Butter Mask!

Have you tried the Moroccan Oil Intense Hydrating Mask? What other hair masks would you recommend for dry and damaged hair?

11:00 No comments

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

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?

10:00 1 comments

Recently I've been loving to use Sheet Masks. The harsh, cold air has left my skin feeling quite dry, lacking moisture and pretty dull looking. I've reached out for the Tony Moly Pomegranate Sheet Mask, as well as the Garnier Moisture Bomb Green Tea Tissue Mask to help keep my skin refreshed and hydrated, as well as looking quite plumped and soft.

If you've got long hair, you'll know the struggle for keeping your hair looking soft and silky. As an avid haircare lover, I've tried my fair share of hair oils, and my favourites so far have been the Superdrug Hair Therapy Oils with Argan and Macadamia. These hair oils are super nourishing, absorbing quickly into the hair without leaving a sticky texture or greasy look to your locks.

One of my most repurchased homeware item ever; the Primark Sea Salt and Lavender Room Diffuser. For only £3, this is an absolute steal, keeping any room smelling fresh all day long! If you've not tried any room diffusers, I'd head yourself down to Primark asap!

A holy grail favourite of mine is the Soap and Glory 2 in 1 Brow Archery. I pick up the shade "Love is Blonde" and find this a perfect match for my hair colour, a lovely cool toned dark blonde colour. One end of the brow pencil has a small brush; great for brushing through the brows and distributing the product for a natural brow finish, the other end having a small, retractable brow pencil; giving you a precise and defined brow, whilst still looking natural. If you're after a good, affordable brow pencil, you should check out Soap and Glory.

As a mascara lover, I definitely had to get my hands on the most hyped mascara of 2018. You guessed it - Benefit BAD Gal Bang Mascara. For mascara, I usually stick to my trusty Rimmel Lash Accelerator Endless mascara, but with lots of rave reviews and amazing photograph results, it was definitely something I wanted to get my hands on! I found this mascara to give lots and lots of length, perfect for those who love a full and fluttery look to the lashes. The plastic bristle brush is great for lash separation and reaching all the lashes, to get a thick, jet black coat.

A skincare favourite of mine has been the L'Oréal Paris Smooth Sugars Kiwi Clear Scrub. The scent of this scrub is to die for! So fresh and fruity, it's a great addition to my skincare routine. From the first few uses, I saw instant results, immediately my skin appeared to look softer, clearer and more radiant. The kiwi seeds are very gentle on the skin, so perfect even for those with very sensitive skin, and a perfect consistency to help to clear and eliminate blackheads. There are two other formulas in the range, the Cocoa Nourish and the Glow Grape seed scrubs, something I definitely want to try asap!

And my final favourite for March has been the Nescafe Café Menu Toffee Nut Latte Sachets. I love coffee and these are a great, super speedy and delicious product, perfect for when I need my coffee in the morning. I've tried lots of the other flavours from the Café Menu range, a few of my past favourites have been the Caramel Latte and the Double Choc Mocha, but whilst browsing my local supermarket, I saw the Toffee Nut Latte as a new addition, so I definitely wanted to give it a try, and it is definitely delicious!

Have you tried any of the products featured in my monthly favourites? What have you been loving this month?

15:30 No comments

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?

16:00 No comments

AD - GIFTED | Everyone's beauty regime should include a face mask, at least once per week. And when it comes to skincare, I think this is my favourite part of my routine, as I love being able to have a nice relaxing evening and pamper myself. I love to try out all different types of face mask, with my favourites being clay masks and self heating masks. During the colder winter months, my skin can sometimes appear to look dull and lifeless, I wanted to attempt to put some radiance and glow back into my skin, which is where I was hoping the InstaNatural Dead Sea Mud Facial Mask* would come to my rescue! With the benefits of the product consisting of being a Skin Cleanser, Pore Reducer & Natural Moisturiser, I couldn't wait to use it!

"100% Natural Remedy that Helps Dry & Oily Skin, Acne, Blemishes Overall Complexion - Also Reduces the Appearance of Fine Lines & Wrinkles for Younger, Healthier Looking Skin"

As to the appearance of this particular product, the mud mask is a dark charcoal grey colour, with a wet, thick gel like consistency, which I actually like. Plus it feels super cooling and non drying on the skin. As for scents, to me this product didn't really have a scent to it, it literally smelt like nothing. As for most face masks, application directions are super easy! To begin, I firstly popped my hair into a ponytail to make sure it was out of my face. After this I washed my face, dried it, and applied a thin layer of the mask while avoiding around the eyes. As the mask began to dry, I watched the change from a dark grey to light, with my skin feeling tighter and firmer as the drying process continued. Kept it on for 10-15 minutes and then wash it off with warm water. How easy is that! Unlike some mud masks, the InstaNatural Dead Sea Mud Facial Mask didn't feel too drying on my skin, and I could see a slight difference after the first use! My skin looked brighter, felt firmer and plumper, and just had an all round greater appearance.

- "Our Dead Sea Mud Mask is made from PURE Dead Sea mud to ensure the highest-quality product. Our mask also includes a nourishing blend of Organic Shea Butter, Organic Jojoba Oil, Organic Aloe Vera, Organic Calendula Oil, and Hickory Bark Extract that provides unsurpassed moisture to soothe dry and irritated skin. This detoxifier and purifier comes from the renowned and sacred Dead Sea, which is known to contain many minerals beneficial to the skin, such as magnesium, sodium and bromine. These elements work to extract excess oil & dirt from the skin and purge blemishes.Using this facial mask once a week also helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Applying the mask will improve your skin so you can achieve a more even skin tone and smoother complexion."

Have you tried this Mud Mask before? What are you favourite face masks?

12:00 No comments

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?

12:00 No comments

Is radiant, glowing skin something you dream of without the need for expensive holidays, luxury skincare products or facials? If the answer is yes, you may just want to keep reading!

Getting bright, glowing skin is definitely achievable for everyone regardless of your skin type and skin concerns. Getting to know your skin type is the first and most important thing you can do for your skin, in order to achieve your 'glow-up'. Using the wrong products with the wrong ingredients could ultimately lead to making your skin worse, and we obviously don't want that happening now. With a few simple lifestyle changes, skincare tips and the right products suitable for you, you can start your journey to get radiant, glowing skin all year round.

1. Increase Water Intake

Staying hydrated is vitally important to keep your skin looking fresh & healthy from the inside out, as well as helping to maintain your skin's elasticity. Your body is made up of over 70% water, so ensuring you're drinking enough water everyday can help you combat a variety of skin issues, keep you focused, aid concentration and generally keep your mood boosted.

2. Include Exfoliation In Your Skincare Routine

Aside from removing dry and dead skin from the surface, including regular exfoliation in your daily skincare routine increases the skin's radiance, texture and appearance. Exfoliation helps to both smooth and nourish the skin, which leads to promoting a healthier, more glowy complexion.

3. Consider Dermaplaning

Something fairly new to me, but something that has become a regular part of my skincare routine is dermaplaning. I briefly mentioned dermaplaning in my lockdown beauty hacks post. To keep it brief, dermaplaning is an effective and safe exfoliation treatment that promotes a number of skincare benefits including more radiant and smoother skin, as well as deeper product penetration. The removal of dead skin and soft facial hair that traps dirt and oils is beneficial in promoting glowing skin, evening skin tone and boosting radiance in the complexion.

4 - Central Heating

"This might not be very well known, but central heating can play havoc on your skin! Naturally, when it's so cold outside we want to make sure we're warm & cosy inside. Central heating can dry the air inside your home causing further dehydration & increase the amount of free radicals in your home. Try reducing the heat a little or wear an extra layer if you need to reduce the core temperature without relying on the central heating. As an extra little tip try opening the windows for 30 minutes per day to reduce any harmful pollutants in the household environment - but turn the heating off first!" - comment from Jenna Unwin, Founder of Million Dollar Facial

5. Include Vitamin C Products

Choosing the right skincare products for you skin type is extremely important and is definitely something worth researching before making the purchase. If you're suffering with dry, dull and tired skin, your skin may need some added hydration and radiance, to help change the appearance and texture of your complexion. For me, the addition of skincare products infused with vitamin c have helped me to get glowing skin all year round, leaving my skin looking bright, revitalises and detoxified. Vitamin C is one of the strongest antioxidants out there and can really help protect your skin from environmental damage.

6. Cleansing Is Your Best Friend

Making sure to cleanse your skin both day and night is one of the easiest and most simple steps to add into your daily routine. Cleansing is a skincare must, to help remove makeup, dirt, oil and to gently exfoliate the skin. Products like hot cloth cleansers are a must have, and can help achieve your glowing skin goals instantly. The muslin cloth that comes with most cleansers helps to maintain heat efficiently when run under warm water. This then helping to deeply cleanse and open pores more effectively, resulting in a fresh and dirt free appearance to the skin. By cleansing properly, you will be left with a thoroughly clean base for you to apply your skincare products and treatments.

7. Make Time For Weekly Face Masks

A face mask once or twice a week can do magic to your skin, especially if you're picking the right type of mask for your current skin needs. Regular use of face masks in your skincare routine help to keep your skin surface clean and pores unclogged from dirt and oil build up. The benefits of using face masks are usually seen with instant results from the first use, left with softer-feeling and smoother-looking skin, and you’ll also notice a radiant glow and more refreshed appearance.

8. Make Diet and Lifestyle Changes

This is crucial for your overall skin & health if you want to look and feel your best. The foods you eat and what you drink all play apart in how you skin looks and feels, so it's important to have everything in moderation. Having a well balanced and nutritious diet is key for supplying your body with vitamins and minerals, which are needed to help boost that beauty glow.

9. Vitamin D

"This hero vitamin can only be made with moderate exposure to daylight & with our exposure to daylight being at an all time low this will lead to a decrease in mood, an acceleration in skin ageing & more pigmented skin. Daily supplements can help this." - comment from Jenna Unwin, Founder of Million Dollar Facial

What ways do you achieve glowing skin?

10:00 No comments

Wishlist - Garnier Ultimate Blends Hair Food Coconut 3 in 1 Mask / Bondi Boost Miracle Mask 250ml / Shea Moisture Super fruit Masque 326ml

Wishlist - VO5 Nourishing Coconut Hot Oil 4x15ml / OUAI Hair Oil 50ml / HASK Argan Shine Oil Pump 100ml

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