Review - No7 Pore Vacuum Mask

I purchased the Pore Vacuum Mask from the No7 Beautiful Skin range at Boots after a friend recommended it.

It is a thick, clay-like mask that dries quickly and can then be peeled off. Usually, the peeling off is the fun part.

I would recommend using this mask in the evening when you have just cleansed as it leaves a red patch (in the exact shape of where it was applied) for an hour or so. I do not recommend putting it on during the day when waiting for a delivery as it is a little war paint like.

The mask is for the forehead and nose area. It is designed to draw out dirt, leaving clean skin with less visible pores. The mask is not recommended for those with very dry skin.

The instructions say to cleanse skin and then once dry, put a thick layer over the area. The mask is to be left on for approximately 10 minutes to dry. I found that quite uncomfortable as I couldn't move those areas of my face easily. I particularly did not like the restricted feeling around my nose. After 10 minutes, the mask is dry and can be peeled off. I think it is meant to be like pore strips where you can see the removed dirt on the strip. 

Peeling the mask off, I can only describe as what I imagine having your face waxed, slowly would feel like. The tiniest hairs that you are so light and so fine that you can't even see on your face are removed. I have had leg, eyebrow, bikini and underarm waxes done and removing this mask hurt more than any of those treatments! Hopefully the pain will be worth it if it is actually cleaning my pores. 

I have used it 3 times so far and aim to use it once a week. My skin does feel soft afterwards but that might just be because all the tiny hairs are removed.

Hopefully I'll be writing how amazingly clear my skin is very soon!

K x

Review - Ugg Gershwin boots

For Christmas 2012, I treated myself to Classic Short Ugg boots in black. Once worn for a while they are comfortable and warm, especially after running around all day in work. We have wooden floor at home so they make great slippers too. A few years ago I bought the chestnut Classic Short Ugg boots in David's in New York and am still wearing them now. They are softer now and perfect for indoors. My black ones still look like new so I wear them outside more often.

This Christmas I was thinking ahead in case it snowed and I didn't fancy getting frostbite in my Wellington boots for another winter. I decided to purchase the leather Ugg boots Gershwin in black which are waterproof, have a high grip rubber sole and a sheepskin lining.

Classic Ugg boots have some grip for frost but not for snow and ice. Gershwin will be practical and warm so even though they are high price I think they are justifiable. I bought them while they were on Price Match at 25% off and then with my further personal discount I got a great deal. I have worn them most days since Christmas and will wear them each winter for years to come.

The sheepskin lining will make such a difference in the snow compared to freezing Wellington boots. They look stylish with their straps and buckles. The grip is a big selling point for me as I do worry about slipping and hurting myself in the winter and these boots will reduce the chance of that happening. Classic Ugg boots can only do so much water resistance wise so a waterproof Ugg is the perfect design for winter.

I prefer not to wear mid calf boots as that is not a flattering look on most people, but for Uggs, I make an exception.

For the money I paid I will definitely wear them enough to get my money's worth. I'm hoping not to get any snow to be able to test them out though!

4.5/5

My skydive

During my travels in Australia I decided to do a skydive. I waited until I was near the Great Barrier Reef and the rainforest in Cairns. I travelled alone and wish I'd of had someone to share the skydiving experience with. I would not recommend doing it alone. I did it anyway. 

Imagine being in a tiny plane, yeah? With the door open, yeah? So scary just that bit! The door is open. You're in a tiny plane. It's in the sky. It's flying.

The guy you're strapped to is edging you nearer to the open door . .

Then tells you to sit on the floor and put your legs outside the plane yeah?? Your body is moving but your brain's screaming NOOOO! Then the instructor starts rocking you on the edge of the plane.  

Then does a forwards role out of the plane! Oh yeah and you're still strapped to him! The scariest moment of my life!

Then. . You're flying. It's amazing! Proudest girl. I've always wanted to skydive, to fly.

Do something that scares you.

Tips for being a top commuter.

1. Buy your ticket in advance whether it be the night before or a renewable pass. Or prepare for a queue to buy each morning. Leave early, be patient. Be pleasant. Take responsibility for your lateness, laziness if hitting that snooze button. 

2. Carry pocket tissues for yourself and your fellow commuters if you irritate easily by sniffling. 

3. If you have layered up for the walk to the station strip off a few layers as soon as you get on the train otherwise you'll overheat, get stressed and irritable (maybe a bit smelly too).

4. If you've paid for 1 ticket you've paid for 1 seat or space so don't spread yourself out over a second or third - common sense and decency. Also tuck your feet under your seat so there's room in front of you for a bag or two.

5. Have your ticket handy for inspection so not searching for ages. 

6. If like me you dread seeing anyone you know in the morning because still waking up and can't be arsed with a conversation for all the carriage to hear take headphones and or a book. The Metros are decent size papers to hide behind. 

7. If you have to stand, lean against the end of a seat not another passenger. Plant your feet firmly to avoid toppling over. Simple.

8. When waiting for your train home after a long or tiring day wait by the sign 3 carriage stop or 6 carriage stop. Take not how many carriages the train has. Don't tut if you wait in between the signs and the doors aren't near you. It's your own fault! 

9. I stand up all day and rarely stand still so I'm getting a seat to and from work. If you want one too get on at central not moorfields as there's nobody on the train coming into central and loads on the one coming into moorfields. How have people not figured this out?! 

10. On the way to work listen to music to wake yourself up and get you motivated for the big sell. Take earphones out and if you can still tell what song it is turn it down a bit kids. On the way home read a book to wind down and chill you out after a hardworking day. 

Spread the word. 

My first spa break of the year.

This week I visited Formby Hall spa and hotel for my first spa break of the year. I was booked in for a mid-week pamper and relax. Even though the spa is 10 minutes from home it is set in the countryside & in the middle of a golf course so feels like it could be anywhere else.

The deal I booked was even cheaper than my last visit and included more treatments. This time round I got 2x treatments in the spa and use of the pool, steam room and thermal heaven (more on that later). In the evening the package included 241 cocktails all night, a 2 course meal, overnight stay in an executive room with a full English breakfast the following morning. All this for £62.50 each. An amazing deal.

Spa treatments.

After changing into swimwear we dressed in robes and relaxed before our treatments in the comfy waiting area of the spa. We were taken to a couples treatment room with low relaxing music playing in the background. 

Facial.

The package included a facial and either a full body salt scrub or full body massage. The facial was deep cleansing including face masks and exfoliating also neck and shoulder massages. 

Salt scrub.

I opted for a full body scrub, as last time I visited I had a massage and thought I'd try something different. Warm flannels were used to dampen my skin then I was thoroughly scrubbed with salt to soften the skin. It was rough especially on the legs and I did think my skin would be bright red afterwards but once if showered it off my skin felt soft and moisturised. I would recommend this treatment. 

Individually both these treatments cost £35 so after both we had already justified the £62.50 package cost.

Pool.

After our treatments we sat in the tropical heat of the pool area. It was very busy and we had to wait a while for 2 loungers to become available. Unfortunately the jacuzzi was out of order and if I remember correctly it was also out of use in August during my last visit. This didn't stop most people sitting in the warm water minus the jets. I enjoyed a swim in the pool but didn't realise how unfit I was! The steam room was too hot for me but I did manage 10-15mins in there. 

Thermal Heaven.

After a snooze and a read of our books we headed up to Thermal Heaven. In here was a sauna and a steam room, foot spas and hot stone  loungers. Very relaxing. 

Executive room.

Our room was luxurious and stylish. Awaiting us was a box of complimentary chocolate truffles and mini toiletries and 2 bottles of still water in the fridge. Cocktails could be delivered to the room and there was a varied room menu which you could order throughout the night. 

Meal.

We got ready and dressed smart/casual for the restaurant. I wore a silk shirt dress with tights and wedge ankle boots and felt appropriately dressed. The restaurant was full with a nice atmosphere. Our package included 2 courses from a great menu we were spoilt for choice. The chunky chips were delicious. 

Breakfast.

Full English breakfast was available, cereal, muffins and fruit. Was very tasty and with a view of the sunny golf course it was a perfect morning. Before we checked out we relaxed on the patio area in the fresh winter sun looking forward to Spring. 

I'm sure it won't be long until I visit Formby Hall again I had a wonderfully relaxing stay and would thoroughly recommend a visit when the next offer starts. 

4/5

C x