6 Tips for a Spa Day at Home

Every woman deserves to be pampered, especially when she spends the better part of her days taking care of others. Unfortunately, professional Spa treatments are very hard on the budget and may be booked up for months. They simply aren't practical for a woman with limited income who is in dire need of a break. 

However, Spa treatments don't have to be professional in order to be wonderfully relaxing. Here are 6 ways that you can create your own Spa experience affordably and in the comfort of your own home.

1. Create Time for Yourself

If you're a woman with a husband and kids, it can be difficult to find time that's just for you. This is where all of that ingenuity you display on a daily basis can finally start paying you back. 

Encourage your husband to spend the day golfing, fishing or just hanging out with the guys; he won't be able to resist. Next, send the kids to grandma's for the day or to a friend's house for a sleepover. You could also kill two birds with one stone by convincing your husband to take the kids on a day trip for some quality time with Dad. 

Finally, you have the entire house all to yourself. It's now time to get started on your Spa day.

2. Luxurious Bath 

One of the most indulgent parts of any home Spa treatment is a hot, steamy bath. The water helps soften your skin, enhancing the benefits of any oils or lotions you may choose to use later. Furthermore, the water's heat helps drain the tension from your muscles and your mind. 

Grab your favorite scented candles, toss in some rose petals or herbs from your garden and don't be afraid to go overboard on the bubble bath. Turn out the lights and enjoy, preferably with soft music playing in the background.

L'Occitane Cherry Blossom Bath & Shower Gel

Aromatherapy Associates Essential Travel Oil for Bath and Shower

3. Essential Oils 

Essential oils are widely used in aromatherapy to set the mood, encourage feelings of relaxation and contentment, and reduce stress. These oils are both inexpensive and widely available. Simply choose your desired fragrances, put a few drops into your bath water and allow the aroma to soothe you into a state of pure bliss.

Erbaviva Relax Body Oil

Aromatherapy Associates Revive Morning Bath and Shower Oil

4. Refreshments 

At the best professional day Spas, you're provided with luscious and decadent treats, but you can do the same at home for a fraction of the cost. Buy a package of your favorite chocolates or other candy and pick up a bottle of your favorite wine while you're at it. 

Chocolate contains Theobromine, a chemical that has been shown to produce relaxation and feelings of euphoria. Wine helps to relax your muscles, warm you up inside and allow you forget about the things that stress you out.

5. A Rejuvenating Facial 

Of course, a Spa day is nothing without a rejuvenating, skin-nourishing facial treatment. Here are two natural, luxurious face masks that we love. 

Dr. Althea Premium Water Glow Skin Renewal Hydrogel Mask

Bird's Nest Bird's Nest Pearl Moist Mask

6. Enjoyable Activities 

While you're waiting in between treatments, there's no need to sit around feeling bored. This is a perfect opportunity to indulge in the things you like to do, but rarely have the time to enjoy. Maybe there's a book you've been wanting to read or a movie you've been dying to see? Now is the perfect time to do any of these activities.

You shouldn't have to break the bank just to get a day of pampering and relaxation. After all, how enjoyable can it be when you're worrying over the cost? There are many things you can do at home for less money that give you the same results. Just give the above tips a try and see how much better you feel!

Time-Saving Makeup Tips

From the alarm going off to the point where we are ready to set foot out the door, mornings are a mad rush for many of us, a race against the clock to get out of the house on time while looking our best. 

Sometimes we compromise our cosmetics routines, to save a few minutes, but then don't feel our best as a result. If this situation is all too familiar, and your shoulders are drooping as you read, don't worry. 

Follow the tips in this article, and you will be able to cut the time it takes to apply your makeup without it showing on your face.

Firstly, swap your base for one that is a foundation, primer and concealer in a single bottle. The cosmetics industry knows we are living increasingly busy lives and has introduced all-in-one products to the market that give a flawless and long-lasting finish. By switching to one of them, you will instantly save time. And since you won't be making three separate purchases, you will probably save a bit of cash too.   

LANCÔME Teint Visionnaire Skin Perfecting Makeup Duo SPF20

La Prairie Skin Caviar Concealer Foundation SPF 15 (For All Skin Types)

Oseque High-End Touch Full Functional Surround Make-Up SPF34 / PA+++ (Anti-Wrinkle & Whitening)

To set your foundation, dust loose powder over your skin with a big brush. Loose powder takes less time to apply than pressed powder, and a larger brush will enable you to get it on faster.

bareMinerals Flawless Application Face Brush

3 Concept Eyes Pink Kabuki Brush with Pouch

You can also reduce the time it takes to put on mascara if you opt for a product that gives instant length and volume. Not only will you need to apply fewer coats to achieve the desired result, but also you are less likely to end up with dreaded clumps on your lashes. Browse the beauty aisles and counters in your favorite stores, and pick a mascara that offers immediate results. There is an extensive choice of products, so if you are not sure which to buy, it is worth reading some reviews online before parting with your money.

Helena Rubinstein Lash Queen Mascara Sexy Blacks (Waterproof)

LANCÔME Virtuose Drama Immediate Double Lifting Effect Curvy Voluminous Lashes Total Smudge-Proof Mascara

Finally, by going through your makeup and throwing away any products that are past their best or no longer used, you will be able to put your hand on what you need more quickly. So organize yourself, and stop wasting precious seconds rummaging around in your makeup bag, trying to find the essentials.

Too Cool For School Anke Emma Pouch

You will be pleasantly surprised at how much time can be saved by making slight changes. Just don't be tempted to spend those spare minutes deliberating over what to wear, or you may find that you are still running for the bus. 

Do's and Don'ts of Moisturizing Your Hair

Whether your hair is long or short, straight or curly, we all have one thing in common: we need to moisturize. When someone says the word moisturize, most of us think of skin, but the reality is that our hair needs it too. 

Between extreme climate conditions and abrasive styling treatments, our lovely locks are screaming for a little down time to rejuvenate, re-energize, and rebuild. With that being said, let's explore some of the most important do's and don'ts of moisturizing our hair. 

Don'ts

1. Over-wash your hair. 

Most of us grew up learning to wash our hair every day, but the truth is it just isn't necessary. Too much washing can leave your hair feeling dry and brittle. If you are using a heavy or homemade moisturizer, don't leave it in overnight. Your hair will reap all of the vital benefits in thirty to forty-five minutes and anything longer just equates to a bad night's sleep and messy pillow cases. 

2. Use ammonia hair dye. 

If you color your hair, reach for the box without ammonia. Our hair suffers enough between abrasive styling products, UV rays, and chlorinated water. 

3. Style hair without heat protection

If you style your hair with heat often, you'll want to opt for a heat protectant – it will help maintain moisture and prevent breakage. 

Goldwell Stylesign Straight Hot Form 3 Heat Styling Lotion

4. Don't be afraid to put your hair up

Wear a hat or just put your hair up every once in a while. Just like anything else, your hair will often benefit from a day off! Whatever you do, just don't ignore your lovely locks.

Do’s 

1. Consider natural moisturizers

Not only are natural moisturizers economical, most are non-abrasive and they will add volume in addition to reducing frizz. Natural products are readily available and easily adaptable to your hair type. Even when using market products, make sure to choose the right one for your hair type. 

Aubrey Organics Honeysuckle Rose® Conditioner

2. Drink more water 

You'll also want to make sure to drink plenty of water. Drinking enough water will give your hair that high gloss and lustrous shine. 

3. Increase vitamin intake

Do contemplate taking some vitamin supplements. Adding B vitamins, folic acid, and magnesium to your diet will help keep your hair at its best. 

4. Make use of natural oils 

Styling oils, such as Argan, can also do wonders for your moisturizing routine. Just be sure to use it on damp hair after your normal wash. You might even consider adding a little to your regular conditioner for super results even on wash days. 

Moroccanoil Oil Treatment for Hair - Light

The above are the basics for moisturizing your hair. Of course, there are always the obvious. For example, try to use a wide-toothed comb to keep breakage to a minimum. 

Also, make sure your brush stays clean, as the build-up of hair, grease, and products will weigh your strands down and make it hard for any moisturizers to be effective. With a little purposeful consideration, your lovely locks will love you back in no time!

7 Ways Jojoba Oil Can Improve Your Skin and Hair

Jojoba oil is actually a yellow colored wax extracted from the seeds of Simmondsia chinensis, a woody shrub native to Mexico. 

Due to its similarities to the skin's natural oils, its high vitamin content, and antimicrobial properties, jojoba oil is the perfect product to protect and nurture skin and hair. Here are a few of the things jojoba oil can do for you.

1. Makeup remover and general skin cleanser

Use a few drops of jojoba oil of a cotton pad to remove the makeup from your face and around your eyes. It will leave your skin smooth and silky, and because it's completely natural and free of harmful chemicals, it will not irritate your eyes at all. 

Desert Essence Organic Jojoba Oil

2. Anti-aging treatment

Jojoba oil is rich in vitamin E, copper and zinc and antioxidants, which fight free radicals and help maintain your skin young and wrinkle-free. Dab a few drops of jojoba oil around your eyes and on your forehead in order to prevent the formation of wrinkles.

3. Moisturizer

You can use jojoba oil as a day and night moisturizer. Apply a few drops of jojoba oil on your skin, and massage it in just like you would with any cream. Due to its easy spreadability, you won't have to use much. If there is an excess of oil left on your skin, blot it off using a tissue. 

Melvita Jojoba Oil

4.  Anti-acne treatment

Because it is so similar to the skin's natural oils, jojoba oil can trick your skin into thinking it has produced enough sebum, thereby restoring its natural balance. Jojoba oil is also non-comedogenic, which means it will not clog your pores and cause further breakouts. Its anti-microbial properties are an added bonus in your fight against acne. 

5. Shaving lotion

Massaging jojoba oil onto your legs before shaving will ensure a smooth, easy shave, without the razor burn and irritation that can follow with other products. It will also leave your legs hydrated and feeling silky.

6. Hair treatment

Because it is a wax and not actual oil, jojoba oil applied on your hair will detangle and condition it without a greasy feeling. A jojoba oil hair mask a few hours before a shower can moisturize and revitalize dull and dry hair, making it soft and easy to comb. 
The anti-microbial properties of jojoba oil can help get rid of dandruff and general scalp irritation.

LOGONA Jojoba Hair Repair Treatment

7. Body lotion

If it's good for your face and skin, then why not for your entire body? Massage a few drops of jojoba oil into your skin after showering, just like you would any oil or lotion, in order to lock the moisture in and have healthy, hydrated skin.

Jurlique Jojoba Carrier Oil

Jojoba oil is a natural product that is rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Its strong similarity to the skin's natural oils makes it a great skin product for any types of skin. It can be used as a skin cleanser, moisturizer and acne treatment. Jojoba oil is the ideal product which can substitute almost any products in your beauty routine.

How to Boost Collagen Production the Natural Way

Collagen is an important protein that provides the building blocks for healthy skin. When collagen starts to break down or degrade, skin loses its elasticity and thickness, leading to saggy and wrinkled skin. Collagen production naturally decreases with age, leaving older skin more prone to damage, fine lines, deep wrinkles and sagging. Fortunately, there are ways to boost the production of collagen and reduce the signs of aging.

1) Protect Skin 

Strong sunlight can have a devastating effect on the skin, accelerating the signs of aging and depleting collagen levels. Protecting your skin from the sun is essential for preserving and retaining as much collagen as possible. Always apply sunscreen before heading out, preferably choosing a sunscreen with high SPF (sun protection factor). On sunny days, wear a wide brim hat to protect the skin around your face and neck, as well as sunglasses to protect the delicate skin around the eye area.

2) Eat Antioxidant-Rich Foods 

Antioxidants neutralize the effects of harmful free radicals in the body. Eating a diet high in antioxidants helps to prevent skin damage and maintain collagen levels. Many fruits and vegetables are high in antioxidants, with blueberries and spinach being the richest sources. Nuts, seeds and some oils also have a high antioxidant content. Tea, coffee, cola and other fizzy drinks can all deplete collagen, so try drinking herbal tea or fruit juice in place of your regular drinks.

3) Quit Smoking 

Smoking is one of the biggest causes of premature aging of the skin. Smoking depletes collagen, vitamin C, and other vitamins and minerals needed for the production, maintenance and repair of healthy skin cells. Quitting smoking can make a huge difference to the health and appearance of your skin.

4) Increase Vitamin C Intake 

Vitamin C is needed for the production of collagen. Inadequate intake of vitamin C makes it difficult for the body to replenish collagen in the skin. Foods like red peppers, citrus fruits and broccoli are high in vitamin C and other skin-repairing nutrients. Vitamin C supplements can also be useful, particularly if you are a smoker.

4 Tips to Get a Naturally Healthy Glow

The natural, no-makeup look is extremely attractive, but you can only really pull it off if you have clear, healthy skin and a natural glow. Fortunately, getting healthy-looking skin isn't rocket science. By implementing a few natural techniques, you can get beautiful skin and surprise people when you tell them you don't wear any makeup. 

1) Drink More Water 

Do you skip water but load up on sugary, caffeinated beverages? This may negatively impact your skin's appearance. Drinking at least two liters of plain, filtered water daily hydrates your skin from the inside out. 

Hydrated skin looks and feels healthier. Drinking enough also promotes healthy cellular function throughout the body; sufficient hydration means skin cells have a better chance of fending off acne causing bacteria. 

2) Use Less Soap 

Overusing soap and facial cleansers can cause increased oil production, resulting in unwanted shiny patches and fostering blackheads, whiteheads and even cystic acne. 

Rinse your face daily with cold water, but cut down on soap use to only a few times a week if you have oily skin. It may seem counter-intuitive, but reducing soap use can even out oil production.

3) Use an Apple Cider Vinegar Toner 

Make a 1:4 solution of apple cider vinegar with water, and use it as a daily toner after you wash your face. The anti-bacterial properties of the vinegar kill off acne bacteria. Additionally, the acid clears away soap residue, which helps prevent over drying and oil overproduction. Non-diluted apple cider vinegar is also excellent as an on-the-spot treatment for troublesome acne.

4) Exfoliate

A little exfoliation goes a long way. Exfoliate twice a week using a facial scrub, brown sugar, or even a loofah. Clearing away dead skin cells opens up pores and allows young, healthy skin cells to shine their brightest. 

Good Skin Care Has a Big Impact

Good skin is the foundation of looking and feeling attractive. By implementing these natural techniques for healthy skin, you can eradicate acne, cut down on oil and allow your natural beauty shine through.

The Beauty of Caffeine

Caffeine receives a lot of bad press and many of us will have heard or read something about the harmful effects of our favourite pick-me-up, and that we should reduce our consumption levels. While such advice can help us to make informed dietary decisions, good news about caffeine is often overlooked. 

It does have positive uses, however, and one sector where the pros are recognised is within the beauty industry, where caffeine is increasingly being used as an ingredient in products.

This article looks at some of the ways in which caffeine can help to perk up our skincare, makeup and hair regimes.

1. Firstly, caffeine can help to minimise the appearance of cellulite by dehydrating fat cells, making skin appear smoother. This might seem a bit of an odd statement when you consider that we are often told caffeine makes cellulite worse. 

Nevertheless, there are now many anti-cellulite skin creams and lotions on the market which are spiked with caffeine, so its potential as an effective ingredient in the fight against dimpled, puckered skin is widely recognised. And if you want to have a go at making your own anti-cellulite coffee scrub, there are several 'how to' guides online offering step-by-step instructions.

Clarins Shaping Facial Lift Total V Contouring Serum

2. There are also advantages to including caffeine based products in your daily routine for taking care of your face. Eye-creams containing caffeine can improve the appearance of the eye area, alleviating puffiness and dark shadows, by reducing water retention and constricting blood vessels. Because caffeine contains antioxidants and is reported to boost circulation and cell renewal, it is perhaps unsurprising that it is used in a number of anti-ageing products.

Clinique All About Eyes Serum

3. Next, because caffeine is known to shrink blood vessels, it is effective in reducing skin redness and the flushed appearance associated with rosacea when applied topically. So choosing a cleanser, face mask or moisturiser containing caffeine can help to even out your skin tone.

LOGONA Age Protection Lifting Serum

4. Caffeine is also used in some makeup bases. A major advantage of choosing a foundation containing caffeine is that it has a tightening effect, giving the face a more youthful appearance. There are several high-street brands of foundation that contain caffeine, so finding the right one for your skin shouldn't be difficult or expensive. You can also pick up makeup primers with an injection of caffeine.

5. Finally, it is worth briefly mentioning the benefits of caffeine shampoo. It has been claimed that caffeine shampoo stimulates the hair roots, activating growth and leaving locks feeling stronger, healthier and more lustrous when used regularly. Caffeine shampoo should be left on the scalp for at least two minutes to enable it to penetrate.

It is apparent that caffeine's potential as a beauty booster is increasingly becoming recognised in an industry that has its finger on the pulse. Thus, perhaps it is time for you to take a closer look at the ingredients of your potential purchases next time you're at the beauty counter. 

And while none of the benefits highlighted here justify you ordering an extra shot of caffeine in your hot drink, they will hopefully give you something to mull over when savouring your next latte.

Five Makeup Mistakes to Avoid

Along with clothes, accessories and hairstyles, makeup really helps you to express yourself visually. It is a good idea, then, to make sure you are creating the impression you want with your cosmetics, and that people are looking at you for the reasons you intended when you step out to face the world. This article outlines five common makeup mistakes that will detract from your beauty, rather than enhance it.

1. Too Much Powder

A light covering of translucent powder applied in the right places, with a brush, can help to set makeup and prevent shining. Take care not to overdo it, though, or your skin is likely to appear pale and chalky, and the mask-like finish will only hide your best features. 

Even worse, the powder will sink into any fine lines or wrinkles and magnify them, ageing you in the process. None of this is good news, so think twice before reaching for the powder pouf.

2. Playing up Eyes and Lips

It is a general rule that you should never wear heavy eye makeup when you are rocking dramatic lips. Not only can it be daunting, but also there is a risk you will end up looking like a clown. 

Make a statement with one or the other, not both. By doing this, you will make the feature you are choosing to highlight stand out much more than it would if your whole look is too busy.

3. Unnatural Looking Foundation

If you wear foundation that is not the right shade for your skin, or apply too much, the chances are your face and neck won't match and you will end up working the orange lollipop look. To avoid this particular beauty blunder, make sure you select a foundation that matches your skin type and colour. If you are not sure what to go for, visit any of the beauty counters at your local department store and staff will usually be happy to advise you.

4. Not Blending Your Products 

Failure to properly blend your eyeshadow, blusher, concealer, foundation or powder can put you firmly back in clown territory when you should be aiming for a smooth, flawless finish.  If products are blended correctly, makeup can work like magic to accentuate your best features and contour your face. If you need a bit of help with this, there are plenty of online tutorials showing you how to blend and a key tip is to purchase the right tools for the job. With a bit of practice, blending brushes, sponges and wedges will help ensure there are no harsh lines and streaks. 

5. Overdoing Lip Liner 

Lip liner defines the lips and prevents lipstick from bleeding, so it is an important product for perfecting your pout. However, harshly lined lips or wearing a liner that is too dark will just look unnatural and dated. And if you stray outside of the natural line of your lips, you also risk emphasising any fine lines around the mouth. 

When working with lip liner, therefore, do take care to follow your lip line and make sure the colour is a good match for your lipstick. To avoid severe lines, choose a creamy pencil that is easy to blend. If you avoid using lip liner altogether, give it a go. When you get it right, you will probably want to kiss yourself. 

If any of the above mistakes sounds familiar, don't give yourself a hard time. Remember, even celebrities fall foul of them sometimes and they usually have the benefit of professional makeup artists. And at least when you are having a bad makeup day, there is unlikely to be a photographer on hand to capture your every blunder.