Make Your Own Natural Beauty Products: Aromantic At Home Pamper Kit review #AD

Have you ever wanted to make your own natural beauty products, but didn't know where to start? With Aromantic's At Home Pamper Kit, you can enjoy a luxury spa experience at home and discover how easy it is to make your very own natural skincare!

Enjoy Knowing Exactly What Goes Into Your Natural Beauty Products

There are many benefits to making your own natural beauty products, but the main one is that you will know exactly what is going into the products that you're using on your skin. This is also incredibly important if you have any allergies or skin sensitivities as you can control and monitor all of the ingredients that you choose to use. No more looking at long labels on bottles in the shops and worrying about what all those strange ingredients are!

Aromantic At Home Pamper Kit - buy it here

I've always enjoyed experimenting and making my own products so I was thrilled to receive one of Aromantic's At Home Pamper Kits to test out. Aromantic was founded back in 1997 and is one of the UK's recognised and trusted leaders in organic beauty and natural skincare. This second-generation family-run business is incredibly passionate about natural ingredients and they offer a wide range of high-quality products and services so that you too can benefit from the very best that nature has to offer.

The Pamper Kit is ideal for beginners and contains everything that you need to create four natural skincare products (Salt Body Scrub, Body Butter, Massage Oil and Peel-Off Mask), with three ready-to-use products (Cleansing Lotion, Base Lotion, and Organic Rose Hydrolat) that you can easily incorporate into your daily routine. 

The kit also contains a set of simple instructions on how to make the products, as well as a handy measuring beaker, measuring spoon, and two empty container pots.

Himalayan Salt Body Scrub

The first product that I made was the Himalayan Salt Body Scrub and this was super easy to do. You simply measure all of the ingredients, pour them into one of the provided container pots and stir until everything is mixed well. Made from Himalayan Salt, Apricot Kernel Oil, Rosemix Essential Oil, and a small amount of Lumorol K to help the scrub emulsify, this is a brilliant body scrub to use in the shower for silky soft skin.

Body Butter

The Body Butter was even easier to make as it's simply created from just three natural ingredients; Organic Coconut Butter, Apricot Kernel Oil and Rosemix Essential Oil. As the weather has been so warm lately, the Coconut Butter was easy to blend with a spoon with the other ingredients to create a rich, luxurious whipped texture that sinks into the skin and it smells amazing.

As I've recently had laser eye surgery, I was unable to try out the Peel Off Olive Mask but follow me on Instagram and I'll do a special DIY Beauty post on this in my IG Stories soon!

Ready To Use Products 

The three 'ready-to-use products in the Pamper Kit are a natural Cleansing Lotion that you can use morning and night to remove all traces of dirt, impurities, sunscreen, and make-up. It has a typical light cream feel to it and doesn't leave skin feeling stripped or dry afterward. There's also an Organic Rose Hydrolat which is beautifully refreshing to use after the cleanser, and a Base Lotion that's described as Aromantic's in-house luxury body lotion - it feels very silky and is a lovely product to use to complete the pampering/spa-like experience!

Aromantic At Home Pamper Kit* retails for £46.20 and can be purchased online via aromantic.co.uk

Have you tried to make your own natural beauty products before?

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Bank Holiday Treat: Fall Back In Love With Dressing Up with Maggio

With many Covid restrictions now lifting across the UK, it's time to fall back in love with the art of dressing up for all those social catchups that you've been missing out on!

I don't know about you, but I feel like I've been living in loungewear for the best part of a year now. I can't even remember the last time that I felt good about dressing up or made the effort to even look in the mirror before leaving the house. Sound familiar? You're not alone. 

Whilst I've enjoyed many aspects of WFH life, I've really missed spending time with friends and family so I've been looking forward to getting back to normal and that includes dressing up. 

Shoes are an easy way to get back into the swing of things and there's something about a fancy pair of heels that really add that special finishing touch to your favourite outfit. I was over the moon when Maggio offered to help me through this style crisis by sending me a pair of their beautiful shoes to make me fall back in love with dressing up.

Maggio describes itself as an 'affordable luxury' shoe brand for women who want to stand out. All of their shoes are handmade in a family-owned factory in Italy, with all of the designs custom made by the brand's founder, Marianna Kontogeorgos. 

I feel it's important to support independent, female-led businesses and when it comes to shoes, you get what you pay for so now's the time to ditch those cheap fast-fashion heels that break after one season, and invest in a pair that will last you for many, many years to come.

I opted for Maggio's new Eudora heels in Navy Blue as so many of my shoes are just plain back, it was lovely to have the opportunity to try something different but still very classic and timeless. 

In Greek mythology, Eudora was the daughter of Nereus and Dorris. She was one of the 50 daughters called the Nereides also known as nymphs who are female spirits of sea waters. It was said that the Nereides were goddesses of the sea's rich bounty and protectors of sailors and fishermen, coming to the aid of those in distress. Nereides are associated with the Aegean Sea where they dwell in the depths in a golden palace.

I'm utterly smitten with these shoes! Not only are they comfortable to wear thanks to classic French-inspired cutout design, but the easy slip-on style and 7.5cm kitten heel make them remarkably easy to walk in and the navy blue and gold design go with a range of different outfits and colours. The suede and leather materials feel incredibly high quality and they feel much more expensive than they actually are, plus the gold underside adds a subtle extra touch of glamour. It's a win all-round!

Available in three colours, this is a Bank Holiday treat that you'll truly treasure having in your shoe collection.

Maggio Eudora Navy Blue Shoes* (€250, link)

What are you treating yourself to this Bank Holiday?

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The Weekend Post: 15 Easy Zero Waste Tips for Beginners #AD

There’s a lot of information on how to go zero waste and plastic-free. But if you want to do it perfectly from the beginning, it can be an overwhelming change in your life. So, let’s focus on taking baby steps!

Just like learning a new language or skill, you have to start with the basics and keep practicing every day to improve your performance. And there’s no better day than today to start your zero waste journey!

Would you like to learn 15 useful and easy zero waste tips you can put into practice today? Then, let’s dive right in!

What is Zero Waste?

In simple words, zero waste means sending no waste to landfills or incinerators. Although going completely zero waste sounds impossible, the goal is to reduce as much waste as you can each day! Remember, baby steps.

If you’re wondering why zero waste is important, keep in mind that your waste will affect the environment one way or another. Your trash could end up on the streets or make its way into the ocean! Besides, landfills and incinerators have a huge impact on the environment.

15 Easy Zero Waste Tips for Beginners

The best way to make huge changes is to start with small but consistent steps on a daily basis! After a while, you will realise how much waste you’ve reduced with little effort. To make this possible, check these easy zero waste tips.

1 - Avoid Disposable Items

Avoiding items that will end up as waste is probably the best zero waste tip to bear in mind. You should keep track of the single-use things you discard frequently and find ways to avoid them. Fortunately, you will be able to replace most of them with reusable options! For example, use reusable cutlery to avoid disposable utensils and they will be some of the best eco products you'll ever buy.

2 - Compost

If you can compost at home, why don’t you give it a try? Once you start composting, you will reduce a lot of waste while creating nutrient-rich soil! And more importantly, this zero waste tip is a great way to prevent organic matter from contributing to climate change.

3 - Don’t Forget Your Reusable Grocery Bags

The main point of having reusable bags is using them to avoid plastic bags and paper bags. That said, it’s easy to forget them at home, especially when you’re in a rush. To prevent this, you could place them near your keys or wallet. If you don’t have a reusable bag yet, what are you waiting for?

4 - Buy Loose Produce

When buying veggies and fruits, avoid plastic packaging and buy them loose instead. Cut down on plastic waste with this zero waste tip and pack your veggies in small reusable bags. If the only options available come in plastic packaging, you can visit the farmer’s market to find loose produce!

5 - Ditch Plastic Toothbrushes

An easy zero waste tip to reduce your plastic waste is using a bamboo toothbrush instead of a plastic one. Your plastic toothbrush is an item that will stay forever in a landfill or what’s worse, it could end up polluting the ocean. On the other hand, bamboo toothbrushes are biodegradable and eco-friendly.

6 - Buy in Bulk

Plastic packaging creates lots of waste, that’s why you should avoid it when possible. A fantastic zero waste tip to reduce plastic packaging is buying in bulk. The good news is that there are many bulk shops you can visit nowadays to buy nuts, cereal, spices, rice, and more!

7 - Say No to Plastic Straws

When ordering a drink, say that you don’t want a plastic straw. Plastic straws are one of the most common items found on beach clean-ups, so it’s important to avoid them. If you’d like to use a straw, bring your own reusable straw!

8 - Repair Damaged Items

Before discarding things that are broken or old, find out if you could repair them or use them for another purpose. With this zero waste tip, your old items will have a second chance and you will prevent waste. Maybe you could even save some money!

9 - Use a Reusable Water Bottle and Travel Mug

Plastic bottles and disposable cups create unnecessary waste you can avoid by using a reusable water bottle and a travel mug. Besides being eco-friendly options, they will keep your water cold and your coffee hot for longer!

10 - Make Some of Your “Convenience Foods”

If you have enough time, get creative and make some of your convenience foods. This zero-waste tip is a wonderful way to avoid packaging and prepare some healthy food options! For example, you can make your own pesto, hummus, jams, cookies, and more!

11 - Pack Your Snacks

Food wrappers are the most commonly found beach trash, so it’s important to reduce this waste. Once in a while, pack a few snacks instead of buying them on the go. Not only will you avoid plastic packaging, but you will also eat healthier!

12 - Learn How to Recycle Properly

Recycling options can vary a lot in different places, so find out what materials you can recycle in your area. This zero-waste tip is key to follow your local guidelines and make sure that your recyclables get recycled!

13 - Bring Your Own Container

If you’re getting takeaway, ask if you can use your lunch box to avoid plastic waste. If you can’t, wash the takeaway container and reuse it for freezing your foods. And don’t forget to use your reusable utensils!

14 - Reuse Glass Jars

Reusing glass jars is one of the most creative zero waste tips. They’re super useful and you will find many ways to reuse them. You can use them to buy in bulk shops, store craft supplies, and more!

15 - Donate Unused Items

If you have a few items that you no longer need or you won’t use any more, don’t send them to landfills. A better zero waste tip would be donating them to a local thrift store instead.

These zero waste tips are small steps in the right direction to reduce your daily waste, so give them a try! 

Post written by 

Zero Zen Store

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The Weekend Post: Think a Facial Could Fix Your Skin? Here's What You Need to Know #AD

A facial is one of the best ways to clear your skin and make it look glowy and fresh. Whether you do it alone, or you prefer the expert hands of a professional, doing a facial is the right way to take care of your skin. But, if it’s your first time doing such a thing, then it’s important to be prepared about the whole experience. So for that reason, here are some amazing tips that will show you how to do it.

Choose the right treatment

There are many different facials out there, and choosing the best one matters the most. In case you’ve never done it before, then be sure to go for regular pore-cleansing treatment. Simply, chances are that your pores are full of sebum and dirt, and these are impossible to clean with commercial skincare products. So before you move to other treatments, make sure to thoroughly cleanse your face first. After that, you can proceed to do other treatments related to your specific skin concerns.

Skip makeup

Wearing makeup during the facial is a big no, so if you’ve already made an appointment, then it’s hugely important to go there bare-faced, without a trace of makeup. An esthetician doesn’t need to go through layers of makeup in order to work on your skin, and since the aim of the treatment is to boost your skin’s wellbeing, there’s really no need to hide imperfections or blemishes at all. Also, it’s not in your best interest to waste the time of the appointment on removing makeup.

Don’t be afraid of some DIY magic

We’re still in the middle of the pandemic, so going to the salon is a bit challenging, which is why having a home facial doesn’t seem like a bad idea. Therefore, if you love all things related to skincare, and you want to try this out, then giving yourself a facial might be a nice way to pamper yourself a bit. There are different types of at-home facials so be sure to choose the one that works for you. Also, rather than forcing extractions, it’s important to be patient and know your limits. Every facial has an order that needs to be followed, so don’t stray from that, and instead, do things as you should.

Be prepared for some ugliness

This might sound frightening, but in reality, it’s all part of a regular process. Extractions can be irritating and therefore, it’s not uncommon for skin to look worse a few days after the treatment. That’s why steaming can help with extractions, but if you experience any post-facial breakouts, then be sure to use antibacterial products, and to stay away from touching and picking at your skin. Also, if you’re doing exfoliation treatment, it’s crucial to avoid direct sunlight and to wear sunscreen every time when you go outside.

Have a good skincare routine at all times

A proper skincare routine will help your skin on a day-to-day basis. Therefore, make sure to take care of your skin in between the treatments. Besides, feel free to take a picture of your products and show it to your facialist. Your esthetician can also give you some useful tips regarding the right products and their application. Not taking care of your skin every day can make your skin appear dry, dehydrated, dull, or saggy, and that’s something you should definitely avoid.

Conclusion

A facial is something you should do, especially if you’re dealing with skin issues such as acne, redness, and early signs of ageing. These tips will help you prepare for a facial treatment, regardless of whether you do it at home or in the salon. Just make sure to follow all the rules and recommendations, and as a result, your skin will look fresh and glowy.

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Foodie Friday: Relaxing Treats - 5 Delicious CBD Edibles You Should Try #AD

If you haven’t been paying attention to the CBD health craze, you may have missed the wealth of delicious CBD edibles that have flooded the market in recent years. These treats offer the health benefits of CBD, all while being delicious and nutritious. One of the most popular CBD edibles is CBD Gummies. The best thing about it is you can buy CBD gummies for sleep online as well as offline as per your suitability. But are you aware of other CBD edibles like chocolate, jam, and many more? If you’re looking for some interesting treats to try, here are some of the most delicious CBD edibles in the market.

1 - CBD chocolate

There are two approaches when it comes to making CBD chocolate. The boring approach is to use CBD isolates, which leads to a final product that tastes just like regular chocolate. You see, CBD in isolation takes the form of a flavourless white powder, which can be added to any recipe without altering the food’s flavour. Which is good if you don’t like the distinct earthly flavour of hemp, but if you are looking for interesting culinary experiences, buying this type of product will be pointless.

Luckily, there are manufacturers that choose to make chocolate bars using full-spectrum CBD, which often carries hemp biomass. Some go the extra mile and add decarboxylated hemp to the mix, further accentuating the taste of the plant within the mixture. The result is a CBD chocolate bar that tastes nothing like anything you’ve tasted before, creating flavours that you might fall in love with.

2 - CBD ice cream

Ice cream and CBD makes for an interesting combination and a great treat for relaxing on a hot summer day. Remember: CBD remains active when ingested. Meaning that you’ll be able to enjoy all the usual benefits of CBD, which includes a reduction in your overall levels of both stress and anxiety.

CBD ice cream can be bought from different stores, but it is also relatively easy to do yourself. And while homemade CBD chocolate isn’t always that flavorful, homemade CBD ice cream can be excellent.

3 - CBD jam

One of the advantages of infused jam is the wide variety of recipes you can use it with. CBD jam can be used as part of a sandwich, eaten with crackers, or even be used as an ice cream topping. The possibilities are endless.

4 - CBD cakes and brownies

Cake mixes containing CBD can be bought from different stores, or you can add your own CBD to a given mix. Just choose a mix that takes vegetable oil as part of the recipe, and when it comes time to use the oil, also add Cibdol’s CBD oil to the mix. The result will be an infused cake that can also taste quite unique, depending on how much CBD you use.

5 - CBD beverages

CBD drinks and beverages are often sold alongside edibles, since they both share the same consumption method. And a good relaxing CBD drink is definitely a treat you should give yourself from time to time. CBD can be found in everything from soft drinks to tea and coffee. You can even find sparkly CBD water for sale, which makes for a great way to stay calm and hydrated during long hikes or runs.

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The Weekend Post: Boost your productivity and efficiency with these home office updates

 

Are you still working from home? Due to the coronavirus outbreak, more of us than ever before are working from home permanently, which means millions of us trying to work, answer emails and deal with clients, all whilst avoiding the distractions and discomfort of home working.

You can’t get comfortable, there are too many distractions, you’re constantly visiting the fridge and the cupboard, you can’t find anything and you seem to be trapped in a perpetual struggle of disorganisation and frustration. Well, enough is enough! 

If you’re facing months of home-working then you need to start taking it seriously. So, creating a home office that not only keeps you attentive and comfortable but one that boosts your productivity and efficiency should be your first task. Check out these home office updates below and afterwards head on over to my Work With Me page if there's anything I can help with to support your brand or company.

Lighting

One thing many office workers don't miss is the office lighting. Glaring overhead lights that trigger migraines and eye strain is hardly something you yearn for now you're working from home. However, lighting is still something you should take seriously. For those dull corner lamps and dusty ceiling lights, making the switch to LED lights – such as a gu10 bulb - can improve your comfort and productivity. 

LED lights are ideal for working environments, with cool, warm and daylight colour options all available in various styles that complement your décor and working space. It makes sense to switch to LEDs. Not only that but LED lights are also cheaper to run so in those dark winter months and those long nights of overtime you won't be worrying about your electricity bill. 

Get some more storage

More equipment? Files? Paperwork? Tech or stationery? It doesn’t take much for our desks to become cluttered and stressful, so investing in some additional storage is a simple yet effective solution. Installing some simple shelves so you can store boxes, a bookcase, or even a small filing cabinet will keep your desk and your mind clear, so you can focus on the task at hand. Make sure to keep your makeup and any deskside beauty essentials tidy with their own makeup storage unit so they don't serve as a distraction.

Play around with colours

If your office space is grey and bland then it's going to impact your productivity. Adding a little fire or spice to your walls will certainly give your attention span and your output a boost. You don't have to paint the room bright red or a zingy yellow but a simple feature wall in a bold colour can work wonders. 

If you’re renting and unable to redecorate, don’t worry. You can create the same effect by adding pops of colour throughout your workspace. Desk accessories, artwork, rugs, or even a brightly coloured chair to sit on could do the trick.

And finally, surround yourself with motivation

You don’t have an office manager telling you what you can or can’t have on your desk anymore. So, let your creativity run rampant. Surrounding yourself with motivation can help you get through those tough mornings and difficult deadlines. 

Photos of your children, postcards from places you’ve travelled to, something you painted or made, your greatest achievements framed and placed on the wall above your desk. Surround yourself with things that bring you joy and your productivity will flourish! 

[In collaboration with ledhut.co.uk]

[Image credit: Mudassar Iqbal via Pixabay]

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Summer Beauty: NUORI Sun Repair Serum & Mineral Defence Sunscreen SPF 30 review + 10% Reader Discount Code

Summer isn't over just yet, and with this week's heatwave arriving in the UK, it seemed like the ideal opportunity to feature a new luxury clean skincare brand which has been popping up my beauty radar. Meet NUORI.

NUORI is a Danish high-end, clean and non-toxic skincare brand whose products are formulated with 100% naturally derived ingredients which work in harmony with the latest generation of bioengineered actives. It's one of those brands that I just love because it marries together nature and science for the best possible results, whilst sticking to their clean skincare ethics. 

In addition, it's worth noting that all of NUORI's products are created in small batches every 10-12 weeks in Denmark to ensure maximum freshness and potency, and all of their packaging comes clearly marked with batch numbers and expiry dates which is even more important when it comes to suncare as out-of-date products aren't going to protect your skin properly!

I was invited to join in with NUORI's current Sun Defence Duo campaign to help promote the brand's suncare. I'm hugely passionate about encouraging everyone to wear SPF when they go outside, even in the Winter months, so I couldn't wait to try out this duo which will see you through the end of Summer and beyond.

NUORI Sun Repair Serum* (30ml, €58, link)

Suitable for all skin types including sensitive, Sun Repair Serum is a fragrance-free serum which deeply hydrates, soothes and repairs skin that's been exposed to sunlight. With an innovative antioxidant-rich complex, it helps to neutralize damaging free radicals which cause premature ageing such as fine lines and wrinkles, whilst also inhibiting the production of melanin for a more even skin tone and texture. 

If you find that your skin becomes very sensitive, red or irritated when you're in the sun, this serum could become your new BFF as it basically offers an extra layer of protection that you can wear underneath your regular facial sunscreen. The serum has a lovely lightweight and non-sticky feeling so it works well underneath makeup too, and the hydrating properties will keep your skin comfortably moisturised throughout the day.

NUORI Mineral Defence Sunscreen SPF 30* (50ml, €49, link)

Sunscreen is, of course, your main shield of defence against those harmful UVA and UVB rays and the aptly named Mineral Defence Sunscreen SPF 30 delivers essential broad-spectrum protection in a convenient and all-natural formula. Created without any nasties such as nanoparticles, chemical sun filters and titanium dioxide, it instead utilises a new generation of non-nano Zinc Oxide which means that this sunscreen won't harm your skin or marine species and the environment as it's both ocean and reef-safe. 

I love the texture of this sunscreen as it's very light, untinted and is quickly absorbed when applied to the face without any white cast or stickiness/greasy problems. The fragrance-free formula also means that it's suitable for sensitive skin types and when removed properly with a double cleanse at the end of the day, you shouldn't experience any issues with breakouts which are more common when using chemical sunscreens. 

Try the NUORI Sun Defence Duo with 10% off with my special reader discount code - just add beautywolfgirl10 at the checkout and enjoy! Discount code expires on 30th October 2020 and is limited to one use per customer - shop here at Nuori.

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The Weekend Post: My First Virtual Blogger Event with Moonpig - Cards, Cocktails & Flowers #MoonpigMoments

Last Thursday evening, I took part in my first ever Virtual Blogger Event via Zoom! The event was hosted by Moonpig to help spread the word of the brand's mobile app which makes it easy to send cards and gifts to loved ones during these difficult times.

Although some restrictions on the lockdown within England have recently been eased (such as unlimited outdoor exercise etc), it's still not permitted or considered safe for people to visit family and friends at their homes due to the Coronavirus pandemic. This has been putting a big strain on relationships and the emotional aspects of not being able to see your family or friends have been upsetting to say the least. 

Thankfully, technology has been amazing for keeping in touch with those outside of your immediate household, and it's been great to see more people going back to some 'old-fashioned' ways of communication such as sending a card in the post and making more phone calls. Before Covid-19 happened, I couldn't remember the last time that I received a physical card through the letterbox, but now every time that I get one from a friend or family member, it instantly cheers me up! 

Back to the virtual blogger event, after a quick 'Hello!' to everyone who joined in over Zoom, we were introduced to a demo of the Moonpig app (you can download it here) by Jasper, which is available for both iOS and Android customers. The app is free to use and it's quick and simple to set up your account by just filling in a few details at the sign-up process. Once you're all set up, you can browse the hundreds of card designs that Moonpig has available, and they really do have a card for everyone and every occasion from classics to the more contemporary - I spotted some Tiger King ones whilst I was scrolling through earlier which are quite funny ;)

At the top of the homepage on the app is a slideshow of the current Moonpig offers and I thought this made the shopping experience even easier as it was clear to see the discount codes. Who doesn't love a cheeky bargain?!

The ordering process is also incredibly concise and easy - just select the card that you're interested in and then it displays how you can personalise it - there's even the opportunity to 'handwrite' a message inside the card using a stylus pen which I thought was a lovely touch.

As you can see above, Moonpig has three card options to choose from; a digital eCard (handy if you've left things too late!), a Standard Card size and a Giant Card size which is brilliant if you want something that's more of a novelty. iOS users can even use the AR view on the app to physically see how big the cards are by moving your phone around the room, a digital card pops up on any surface which is very clever.

There are lots of interesting features within the app including a page to add a reminder date and an option to import from an online calendar. I'm terrible for forgetting the dates of people's birthdays so this feature instantly appealed to me and I've already synced up my calendar to my account so there are no excuses now!

After the app demo, we were treated to a Cocktail Masterclass with James from Mix and Twist and using the contents of a very generous cocktail box which had been delivered the day before, we created three delicious cocktails using Silent Pool Gin as the main ingredient. I love gin so I'd been looking forward to this part all week!

The first cocktail was called a Gin Garden (above) which was bursting full of flavour thanks to plenty of fresh mint and cucumber. Next, we had a fun 'quick-fire' round where we raced to make an Elderflower Collins - I almost spilt the entire bottle of Gin over my keyboard in the process but luckily it all went to plan and the result was delicious! Finally, the last cocktail was perhaps my favourite - a Strawberry Gimlet which involved a fresh Strawberry puree and of course, plenty of Gin. Yum - thank you James for being an awesome bartender!

Moonpig are not just famous for their personalised cards, their range of fresh delivery flowers is simply beautiful and for the final part of the event, we had the pleasure of taking part in a Flower Workshop with Roxanne. She shared her top tips for arranging a professional-looking bouquet and offered advice on how to make fresh flowers last longer which I found really useful. We were able to arrange our own bunch thanks to a gorgeous fresh flower delivery from Moonpig which featured their bestselling Luxury Rose and Peony Boquet* (above, £50, link). 

I was truly blown away when this arrived as the flowers were in perfect condition and I've enjoyed watching the Peonies come into bloom over the past few days; they are so stunning.

One of the many gifts available at Moonpig

I thoroughly enjoyed the Virtual Blogger Event and had a great time chatting to fellow bloggers over Zoom. I hope more brands do these virtual events now and in the future, as I've often struggled to accept event invites due to not living in London, so this makes it so much more inclusive for bloggers to join in. Thank you Moonpig for being an amazing host! 

Discover the full range of Moonpig cards, flowers and gifts at moonpig.com/uk and don't forget to check out their app!

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Health & Lifestyle: What Are The Health Benefits of Essential Oils & How Do I Use Them With An Aroma Lamp? #AD

What are Essential Oils?

Essential oils are a liquid which is a concentrate that is extracted from a plant. The reason they extract these oils is for their health benefits and aromatic smell. Essential oils are often linked with aromatherapy. The use of essential oils have been around for thousands of years, people used them as perfume, a way to fragrance their home, and to repeal insects. Over the last few years, there has been a huge increase of people using these oils, as an alternative way to fragrance their home instead of using chemicals.

To use essential oils in this manner, you simply heat them up. There are a few products out there can help you to achieve this. You can use an oil burner, you simply ignite a tea light, and place the essential oils in a bowl at the top. The heat from the candle will cause the oils to vaporize producing natural aromatic smell in your home. This is a much more traditional way of heating up your essential oils.

There are aroma lamps which can also be used to heat up these oils. The one as pictured above can be used by simply switching the lamp on as the base of the lamp is touch-sensitive. The heat from the bulb will then heat up the essential oils. The benefits of using aroma lamps are that there is no need for a candle, making this a much safer product to use.

Essential Oils Health Benefits

• Stress and Anxiety - There are have been studies showing that around half of people struggle from stress and anxiety use alternative methods to help them. Many people found with the use of some essential oils can help them with their therapy.
• Headaches - A study showed the use of peppermint essential oils can help reduce headaches, simply dilute the essential oil with water and place on the forehead.
• Helps with sleep - Using lavender essential oils can help people sleep.
• Inflammation - The use of oregano and thyme essential oils can reduce inflammation.
• Non-chemical - Using essential oils is a great way to avoid chemical and provide a natural aromatic fragrance to your home.
• Repel insects - Some essential oils are proven to hold off mosquito for up to 3 hours.
• Perfume - They can be used as a natural perfume, simply dilute with water.

There are hundreds of different types of essential oils out there and each one has its own health benefits. If you are looking for aromatherapy product be sure to check this website.

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How To Create A Luxury Spa Experience At Home With Rabot 1745 Beauty #StayHome

Your favourite spa is currently closed but don't worry, it's super easy to recreate a luxury spa experience at home with Rabot 1745 Beauty!

Love at first 'smell' is how I would sum up my recent introduction to Rabot 1745 Beauty. This new-to-me brand is based here in the UK, but is influenced by the sunny Caribbean island of St Lucia where its star ingredient, Cacao, has been farmed since 1745 on their very own Rabot Estate (hence the name!). You'll find cacao at the centre of Rabot 1745's range of products which include skincare, body care, candles, fragrances and more, and given my love for all things remotely chocolate-related, I jumped at the opportunity to try out some of their luxe pampering treats. 

Everything is cruelty-free, paraben-free, and suitable for vegetarians (with many products also vegan-friendly), and I'm impressed with the company's ethics regarding their recycling investment with Plastic Energy. Plus, Rabot 1745 are currently helping the NHS with the #RabotHelpingHands initiative that includes donating hand creams and hand gels to frontline NHS workers which is fantastic to see.

Moving onto the products themselves, here are three easy steps to creating some much-needed personal relaxation time in your bathroom.

Start With Clean Hands

The importance of clean hands has never been clearer and I find that washing your hands thoroughly before a pampering session helps your mind to reset itself, as you shift your focus to the more blissful task of unwinding and closing the door to the outside world. The Cacao & Aloe Hand Wash* is a vegan-friendly cleanser that utilises the natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of Aloe Vera, alongside Cacao Seed Butter to keep hands soft and supple. 

Available to purchase alone or as part of a bundle with their brilliant Cacao & Coconut Hand Cream* - with each Helping Hand Duo bought, Rabot 1745 will donate a 60ml bottle of their brand new Hand Gel to the NHS so it's a good time to stock up (buy yours here). 

Prep With A Body Scrub

One of Rabot 1745's bestsellers are their amazing Body Scrubs which all come packaged in a reusable coffee cup - how awesome is that?! I decided to try the Sugar & Sour Orange Body Scrub* (280ml, £16, link) which has an instantly uplifting citrusy scent that's wonderfully awakening and summery. Made from a blend of plant-based oils such as Sweet Almond, Shea, Argan and Jojoba Seed with pure Sugar and lots of citrus essential oils, this easy-to-use scrub buffs away dull, dead skin cells for a smoother and softer result all-over.

Pamper Yourself In Liquid Chocolate

Body masks are often the pièce de résistance of many a luxury spa experience and the Liquid Chocolate Body Mask* (200ml, £14.95, link) is one of the most indulgent treatments I've ever had the pleasure of testing out at home. This utterly delectable creation does indeed smell like the richest chocolate on earth, and with skin-friendly ingredients such as Kaolin Clay, Coconut Oil, Cocoa Seed Butter and Sweet Almond Oil, it's easy to see why I'm such a fan. 

Smooth it all over, relax for around 10 minutes or so until it feels dry, resist the temptation to lick it off (seriously, it smells so good you'll want to eat it!), and instead rinse with warm water. It'll leave your skin feeling velvety soft and looking glowy and gorgeous - what more could you ask for?!

Shop the full range at rabot1745beauty.com

Are you a fan of chocolate and cacao beauty products?

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The Weekend Post: Can You Heal Acne With The Right Diet? #AD

The symptoms of acne vary from mild to severe, but it can impact an adult's quality of life regardless. Although there are no cures, you can find over-the-counter gels and creams to help treat this skin condition. However, by making some lifestyle changes, you can effectively reduce the symptoms and avoid breakouts. 

While more research is needed, the right diet can play a positive role in preventing breakouts. For example, some evidence has shown that a person suffering from acne can prevent breakouts by consuming more omega-3 fatty acids and cut out dairy products from their diet. If you are suffering from mild to severe acne, make sure you read this article for the best treatment options. 

What causes acne? 

While your skin's role is to naturally shed dead skin cells, if your body is producing too much sebum or oil, the dead skin cells can remain stuck and clog your pores. As a result, these pores become inflamed and turn into lesions. 

How does diet affect acne? 

There are some foods and fruits that you should avoid in order to prevent breakouts. These include pumpkins, potatoes, melons, pineapples, white rice, popcorn, pasta, and sugary snacks. 

Dairy is another contributor to acne breakouts. Examples include ice cream, yoghurt, cheese, and milk. Chocolates can also worsen the symptoms because of their high sugar content. 

Foods that improve acne 

A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can reduce breakouts and even improve the symptoms of acne. Some of these foods are: 

• oily fish 

• organic eggs 

• spinach and kale 

• broad beans 

• grass-fed beef 

• nuts, such as pistachios, pecans, walnuts, and almonds 

• chia seeds 

• brown or black rice 

Following an anti-acne diet plan 

By following an anti-acne diet for a few weeks or longer, you will be able to find out which foods are triggering your breakouts. Make sure you bring your anti-acne food diary with you when you see a dermatologist. Remember that diet changes don’t show their results right away. You must be patient as it can take up to 3 months for the dietary change to take effect on your skin. One good example of an anti-acne diet plan is the Mediterranean diet, which consists of fish, healthy oils, nuts, and seeds. You should consider following this diet for a few weeks to see if it makes a difference to your skin. 

Acne treatment options 

There are many over-the-counter and prescription medications available to treat acne. For example, topical acne treatments are the most common type of treatment available. Some topical creams or gels include benzoyl peroxide or retinol as their main ingredient. They work by killing the bacteria on the skin while decreasing sebum levels. 

Oral acne treatment comes in the form of prescribed medication for red or swollen spots. These antibiotic medications kill bacteria and reduce inflammation. 

To further minimise breakouts, you must wash your face in the morning and before you go to bed, as well as after exercising or sweating. If you have an oily scalp, wash your hair regularly and always use gentle skincare products. 

To avoid breakouts, make sure you don't overexpose your skin to the sun and never pick your spots. Stress is another contributing factor since it causes the body to produce androgen, a sebaceous producing hormone, which causes acne. 

The bottom line 

Acne is an aggravating skin condition no matter what your age. But this doesn’t mean you have to live with it. If all the above suggestions don’t work for you, see your dermatologist, who can come up with the best treatment option for you depending on the severity of symptoms.

[This is a sponsored post - stock imagery from Pixelbay]

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