Before jumping in the bath there's a couple of steps I like to do first, one of them being body brushing. I'm usually quite lazy with bodycare, but on occasions like this when I'm going all out then I'll dig out my trusty Nspa body brush. There are so many benefits to this I really should do it more: it apparently increases circulation, exfoliates, reduces cellulite and helps the body to remove toxins by stimulating the lymphatic system among other things. I have to say, this is one of Nspa's products that I'm less keen on simply because the bristles are a bit firm for my liking- I might have a look at The Body Shop's one next time I'm in there. I'll also be removing my shellac nail polish and filing my nails, as well as apply a hair mask around an hour before getting into the bath. I always cover my hair with cling film when I'm deep conditioning as it really helps it to soak into the hair- even if it does look a bit crazy!
I'll be using my favourite new beauty gadget to cleanse and exfoliate my face- the Braun Face 831. With the cleansing brush I've been using Zaza and Cruz Radiance Cream Cleanser which has a nice high end 'spa like' scent and leaves skin clean and nourished without feeling stripped. Because it's not an especially foamy cleanser it works well with the brush, as it means I'm not choking on a lather of bubbles (made that mistake already!) After rinsing out my hair mask I'll be using Macadamia Oil Extract shampoo and conditioner, I found these for just £1 each in Asda- I initially thought they were discontinued Macadamia products although I think they're just an imitation brand. Still though, they're very nice especially the conditioner. I'm still using my Christmassy themed Nspa shower gels, they're so gorgeous I'm going to be gutted when I can't get them any more.
Facial Skincare
Once I'm out of the bath I plan on using Glamglow's Thirstymud mask, I haven't done a '2014 favourites' post, but if I would have this mask definitely would have been on it. After I've washed off the mask I'll be going for what I consider the 'moisturising dream team'- Clarins Blue Orchid facial oil followed with Origins Drink Up Intensive. My skin always feels amazingly soft the day after using these! I'll be using Zaza and Cruz lip polish to prep for lip balm, it's very similar to the sugar scrubs by Lush and leaves a gorgeous moisturising residue behind. I've got a couple of collagen patch masks from previous Memeboxes that I've been saving so am planning on using those tonight too- one is for under eyes and the other is for lips. I'll also be using a trusty T-zone pore strip as well, I seriously love these things!
Body, Hands and Feet
Pamper sessions are always good for catching up on hands, feet and body moisturising; while I'm always good with facial skincare I do usually neglect my hands and feet out of sheer laziness until I'm having a full pamper evening. I haven't decided on exactly which products I'll be going for, so will probably do a lucky dip in the bodycare drawer and see what I pull out. Finally I'll finish off with a manicure and pedicure using my new shellac polishes.
What did your new years day plans involve?