Pink Parcel & Betty Box

A few years ago I first reviewed both Pink Parcel and Teen Parcel here on my blog and they recently had a bit of a revamp, so I am delighted to be sharing them with you today. Described as being the UK's number one period box, Pink Parcel is designed for those of us who are are no longer considered 'Teens' and that is where the Betty Box comes into play.

The Pink Parcel describes itself as uniting periods and pampering to make your time of the month fuss-free and fabulous and let's be honest, anything that offers to do just that immediately gets the thumbs up and quite probably a hug. The box is discreetly packaged and slim enough to fit through most letter boxes and inside it will be whichever sanitary brand and type of  product you prefer to use.  Brands such as Tampax, Lilets and Bodyform to name just a few allow you the choice of selecting Tampons or Towels to meet your needs. If like me you have quite a hectic life with work and everything else, sometimes forgetting Auntie Flo is on her way can be a nightmare, it is something I do frequently and I love that there is something out there for a peace of mind.

With Pink Parcel the monthly subscription price is £12.99 which includes delivery and depending on whether you choose a one off box or a longer subscription can alter the price, but there is no pressure to sign up at any time.  Once signed up you firstly pick the products you want, either tampons, sanitary towels or you can opt for a mixture of the two and then which brand and absorbency you need and there is quite a selection to choose from.  Once you have made your decision you decide which date you want your box to arrive and my advice is to obviously ensure it is before your next period so that you have everything you need.  Alongside your chosen sanitary products you will also be given some panty liners and some night pads to ensure you literally have everything you need and then it doesn't stop there because also included within your box will be some pampering products worth up to £40.

Once your box arrives, inside you will find three boxes and a drawstring bag and each one is clearly labelled.  In the 'For Night' box you will find some night time sanitary towels and my box has 5 of them.  The 'For Later' box has your product of choice for when your period arrives inside it and the drawstring bag, which I now keep in my handbag contains some panty liners.  The final box which is titled 'For you' has your pampering products inside it and this month my box was packed full of thoughtful products:

• Cuppanut Teabag - Turmeric and Ginger infusion
• Nail HQ - All in One nail treatment
• Cocoba - Cocoa Dusted Salted Toffee Truffles
• Beautaniq Beauty - Radiant Glow Sheet Mask
• Lipcote - Lipstick Sealer
• The Beauty Group - The Glamazon Stick which is described as being a creamy highlight Crayon
• Swiss Clinic - Sanitizing Spray

I love the contents of the For You box and love that it is put together is such a thoughtful manner.

The Betty Box, which used to be Teen Parcel is similar to the Pink Parcel with a few exceptions.  Firstly the entire box is brightly coloured and really stands out which I liked a lot and the subscription is £12.99 per month and contains all the period essentials you’ve chosen, from pads to tampons in all shapes and sizes.   The difference comes with the 'For You' part of the box because as this one is aimed at those aged 11-16 the treats have been chosen with that in mind, so the box might include jewellery, skincare, stationery and sweets.

In the box I was kindly sent, each section is again really well laid out and labelled so that you know which box you need and when.  Then within the 'For You' Box six products which includes:

• Bakedin - Chocolate brownie mug mix which is cooked in a mug in the microwave in 60 seconds.  Described as being gooey, warm and oh so good.
• You Tea - Sleep Tea which uses ingredients such as lavender, rose and chinese dates to ensure you feel calm in both body and mind
• Magnitone - Wipe Out Microfibre Cleansing Cloth which is designed to tackle the most stubborn makeup using just warm water
• Bandzee - Hair ties are like bobby pins for me, you have loads one minute and non the next.  Whenever I tie my hair up, I use a few different branded hair ties because I like that they don't cause my hair to kink.
• Freeman - Foot Scrub with Lemon and Sage.  This scrub is infused with pumice from volcanic rock and is designed to exfoliate rough and dry skin and the inclusion of Tea Tree helps to soothe tired and aching feet
• Bryt Socks - Now these socks describe themselves as being loud and proud and that they most definitely are.  It is said that colourful socks seem to increase happiness and confidence.

Again, I love the level of thought which has gone into these boxes with everything from packing them to including the pampering treats.

I would love to know your thoughts on these two boxes and whether or not you think it is something you would subscribe too.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here

2017 Sale Picks

Every year I always scour the sales looking for bargains and products on offer that I want to stock up on, the kind of things I use religiously and couldn't be without. This year, whilst there are quite a few items which have caught my eye that I either love or really want to try and here they are:

Anastasia Glow Kit - This is one of the first kits I swooned after when it was appearing across my social media feed and even now it is just stunning. Featuring ‘Sun Dipped’ contains ‘Bronzed’ (warm amber with a copper-bronze fleck), ‘Tourmaline’ (warm taupe with a rose gold finish), ‘Moonstone’ (radiant quartz with a pearl finish) and ‘Summer’ (luminous sand with a white gold shimmer) it has an RRP of £41 but is on offer here for just £24.60.

Becca Après Ski Glow Collection Eye Lights Palette - This is an exclusive selection of seven shades wrapped up in gleaming gold, festive packaging and it is just stunning to look at. Described as being a versatile palette, on it you will find ‘Pearl’ (a soft, luminescent white with a satin-matte finish), ‘Rose Quartz’ (a soft pink with a metallic shimmer finish), ‘Topaz’ (a radiant, golden bronze with a metallic shimmer finish), Opal (a neutral white gold with a metallic shimmer finish) and ‘Moonstone’ (a pale, incandescent gold with a metallic shimmer finish). As well as this, the palette blesses us with two new winter-themed shades: taupe brown ‘Toasted Marshmallow’ and warm burgundy ‘Hot Cocoa’, both of which give a sublime satin-matte finish. It has an RRP £40 but Cult Beauty have it here for just £28. 

If that doesn't quite float your boat then the Becca Limited Edition Shimmering Skin Perfector Highlighter Vault, which looks incredible can be found here for just £122.50 down from £175.

A lot of people seem to have an issue with Lush not having an online sale, so perhaps Bomb Cosmetics can be the solution. All of their Christmas gift sets are on offer with AllBeauty here and one of the best sets that I have seen is this Santa Sack which contains no less than 7 bath bombs which includes Cranberry and Lime Blaster and Oh Xmas Tree Blaster to name just two of them.

I think we can all appreciate how amazing Charlotte Tilbury is but finding something on sale makes me feel a bit spendy. The Gift of Goddess Skin collection which features five star-rated Goddess Skin Clay Mask, Magic Cream Moisturiser and Wonderglow Face Primer (all 15ml) is currently on offer for £27.30 instead of £39.99 here. Add to that you can find £9 off the Hot Lips Mini Celebrity Lipstick Charms here.

The Cover FX Custom Enhancer Drops Vault Set - This is a brand I see on my social media feed all the time and also one of the products I have seen duped by many different high street brands. The Vault contains all seven shades of Custom Enhancer Drops from Cover FX and it can be found right here for £95 instead of the RRP £190.

I am a huge K-Beauty fan and when mixed with French Beauty you have one heck of a brand.  Erborian is a brand I absolutely adore and find exciting with each new release and the Maskerade Kit which is a pampering session in a box contains three products.  The Black Scrub which is formulated with Charcoal and it helps to rid skin of impurities, eliminate dead cells and absorb excess sebum, for a mattifying effect. Then there are two sheets masks - Blanc Brightening Sheet Mask and the Bamboo Sheet mask. Usually this set retails for £17 but is on offer here for just £10.

The Marc Jacobs 'Cats Meow' Mini Le Marc Lip Crème Collection is definitely one for the lipstick fan. The travel-size collection features bestselling nudes, reds and pink and comes tucked in a vibrant Marc Jacobs leopard-print pouch made of vegan patent leather which would also make a fab evening bag. The lipsticks included are Sonic Truth (creamy nude), Goddess (deep maraschino),, J'adore (terra cotta blush),, Infamous (soft peony) and Currant Mood (currant red), It has an RRP of £37 but is on offer here for just £25.90.

It is no secret that one of my favourite brands is Omorovicza and the The Omorovicza Moor Mud Set is an incredible bargain. It combines a trio of skincare treats to leave your complexion feeling pampered, revived and radiant. The cleansing mask, balm and exfoliator all utilise a patented Hydro Mineral Transference™ delivery system, which infuses minerals into skin for maximum results. It has a value of £48 but is on offer for just £38 right here.

If you need some new makeup brushes then it could be this one from Spectrum Brushes with the Sassy Sirens - The Siren Shell. I have one Spectrum brush in my makeup brush collection and it is the fan brush, a brush that I use rather a lot thanks to my highlight obsession. There is no doubting that Spectrum Brushes are just stunning to look at and The Siren Shell being on offer is incredibly tempting. The collection comprises 12 of the brand’s most popular brushes and usually retails for £89.99 but here it is just £53.99!

I would love to know if there is anything in the sales which has caught your attention!

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here

ADEXE THEY - Grande Silver & Blue Watch + Giveaway

Watches are an item of jewellery I tend not to bother with, I have slim wrists and don’t like watches that have too heavy a face or a fake leather strap, but I do need to have another option to my iPhone to tell the time.  Adexe describes itself as being the non-conformist brand which differentiates itself from the mass-produced competitors, by offering traditional quality and luxury, but invoking contemporary minimalism. Vertically integrated under one roof.  With one mission in mind: “Create Finely Crafted, Uniquely Appointed Timepieces at Affordable Prices”.  I love that everything is designed and manufactured in-house here in London and the story behind the brand is one worth reading. 

Just before Christmas ADEXE let me choose any watch I liked from their site and I was immediately drawn towards called THEY - Grande Silver & Blue. With its blue face and mesh strap detail, it is just a beautiful watch and has quite a few features which include:

Classic Multifunction dial: Day - Date - Second

• Case material: Hand-Polished All Stainless Steel
• Case size: 41mm diameter 
• Band Width: 20 mm 
• Glass: Curved Hardened Crystal 
• Straps: Hand-Polished Stainless Steel Mesh
• Waterproof: 3 ATM
• Movement: Japanese Miyota VD76
• Battery: 2 - 3 years

A non-gendered watch it can be worn by absolutely anyone and everyone and has been featured in GQ Magazine. On the wrist it sits absolutely flat against my skin and is so comfortable and light to wear, I almost forget it is there. It is easy to fasten and undo with one hand and the watch face itself is every bit as stunning as the photo which drew me in. 

I like that the watch not only tells you time but it does so in a manner which makes looking at it without my glasses easy to do. As well as the time there are three smaller dials which tell you the day of the week, the date and the second, so quite the functional watch. Add to that the silver mesh strap means it goes with every possible outfit whether you are dressed up or down and best of all, it doesn’t tick overly loudly, in fact it is quieter than I had expected it to be.

As you can tell I am absolutely delighted with this watch and have really enjoyed wearing it. Priced at £149 it isn’t going to break the bank and I have a 15% off code if you fancy ordering a watch from ADEXE for yourself or a loved one, all you be to do is add the code GIFTOFTIME15 to your basket! 

I also have a competition to win any watch of your choice and all you need to do use complete the Rafflecopter widget below and ensure you complete all of the mandatory entries otherwise your entry will become null and void.  Please also ensure that you are aged 16 and over or have parental permission to enter and finally please note that there is no cash alternative. UK Only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here

5 Tips to getting your first lip fill

The lips are a body part that speak a lot about your defining your smile and outlining the frame of your teeth and general shape of your face. Lip fillers, also known as lip augmentation can be done if you are not comfortable with your lips due to uneven lips, dry, cracking lips, your lips have poor borders, poor shape or thin. Lip fillers are a great option to enhance the definition, hydration, increase volume/fullness and also boost your smiling confidence.

Image Credit - CarfaxDental

If you’re looking at getting fuller lips and restore your smile, certified dermatologists are available that offer lip augmentation services. Lip fillers Perth at Iconic Medispa offer long-lasting lip enhancement by highly trained cosmetic dentists for the best results. Here are some tips to getting your first lip fill.

1. Seek the services of a professional

Lip enhancement is a delicate procedure which can affect your general appearance when it’s not carried out well. See a professional like a plastic surgeon or dermatologist that is highly experienced in the procedure. This is to avoid a botched augmentation and lip disasters that will leave you looking fake and unappealing.

After getting the right practitioner, you can choose the areas of your lips that you would like to be focused on such as whether it is the bottom, lower or upper lip. Consult with your doctor to know which area would complement your facial features.

2. Do not exercise and avoid painkillers

Seven to ten days before your procedure, avoid using painkillers (apart from Tylenol), vitamin E and fish oil since they make the blood thin. Thin blood increases the chances of bruising and bleeding which might take longer to heal. Also, avoid exercising and activities that increase blood flow to your face such as facial treatments and massage on the day that you will be going for the procedure.

3. Procedure Costs

The procedure costs vary depending on the condition of your lips, which areas you’d like to be worked on and the desired results of the treatment. Get a clinical exam to know the overall cost of the whole treatment although the price starts from $450 onwards.

4. Is the procedure painful?

The general procedure does not hurt and comprises of a combination of local and topical anesthetics. Being in a relaxed and comfortable position during the procedure will give your doctor an easy time and offer you the best results.

5. The post-procedure time and side effects

The procedure takes 15 to 20 minutes. The healing time is minimal and one can get back to their daily routines after the procedure. A bit of swelling or bruising that can last from a few hours to a few days might occur which can be concealed using makeup. The results can last for around six to twelve months depending on how your body metabolizes the formula.

Lip enhancement procedures take less time and are safe and effective. A few months after the procedure you will be feeling more comfortable and confident with your smile and facial appearance.

6. Additional treatments - The perfect lip fillers aren’t complete without white teeth to go with them. Clinics like UK Smiles have a wide range of dental services to help you finish your look, so consider this to achieve the perfect smile.

*this post contains a PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise all words are my own - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here.

You are not alone

Image Source- I Love This Pic

So this is my last post for the next couple of days as it is Christmas Eve. A time for joy, family and happiness.

Sadly, not everyone experiences this at Christmas and for some, this time can be a dark and lonely time or a time when emotions such as depression can be heightened.

You may be one of those people. You may have come across this blog post by chance, or someone may have forwarded it to you to read, I have posted it for the last few years along with a few other bloggers such as Kelly from BigFashionista.

Consider it fate.

I don't want you to feel alone this Christmas.

I don't want you to feel depressed or lonely.

If you feel that you have hit rock bottom and you feel empty inside, If you can see the lights twinkling in other peoples windows, hear the laughter of your neighbours and yet you experience no joy, as if the world is a dark place in which you see no place for yourself any more.

Or if you feel that you are ready to make a change.

I want you to pick up the phone......................

MIND
Website www.mind.org.uk
Tel No 0300 123 3393

Samaritans
Website www.samaritans.org
Tel No 116 123

Rape Crisis

Website http://www.rapecrisis.org.uk

Tel No 0808 802 9999

Women's Aid

Website https://www.womensaid.org.uk/

Tel 0808 2000 247

Alcoholics Anonymous
Website www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk
Tel No 0800 9177650

Stonewall
Website www.stonewall.org.uk

SANELine
Website www.sane.org.uk
Tel No 0300 304 7000

Papyrus, Prevention of young suicide
Website www.papyrus-uk.org

Galop - the LGBT+ anti-violence charity

Website http://www.galop.org.uk/

Tel No 020 7704 2040 / 0800 999 5428

National self-help body for the Transgender community
Beaumont Society
Website http://www.beaumontsociety.org.uk
Information Line 01582 412220

Childline
www.childline.org.uk
0800 1111

Depression Alliance
Website www.depressionalliance.org

Refuge
Website www.refuge.org.uk
Tel No 0808 2000 247

Beat
Beating eating disorders.
Website https://www.b-eat.co.uk
Help line 0808 801 0677
Youth Line 0808 801 0711

Shelter
Website www.shelter.org.uk
Tel No 0808 800 4444

NHS Direct
Tel No 111

No Panic
Website http://www.nopanic.org.uk
Tel No 0844 967 4848
Youth helpline 0330 606 1174

If you need someone, please call one of these numbers. You are NOT alone over Christmas, there are people out there that care, I care. The fabulous Sarah Millican is doing #Joinin again on Twitter this year for anyone starting to worry about being alone/lonely on Christmas Day, If you don't know what it is, it's a hashtag we use to connect all of those who could do with some company. Join in for #joinin.

I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here

Super Beauty Bath Fizzers

It is a well known fact by now (I hope) that I love a good hot bath.  For me it is all about relaxation, forgetting about my worries and troubles, continuing to read a good book and just having some me time.  

Bath bombs, fizzers, ballistics or whatever you like to call them now come in all shapes, sizes and scents and I was kindly sent some Super Beauty Bath Fizzers to try.  Described as being products which are with the finest superfoods around so you can feed your skin exactly what it needs, I couldn't wait to give them a try.

The first thing to note is how brightly coloured the packaging is and that each box contains not one but three bath bombs.  

Feel the fizz and stimulate our senses with these deliciously fragranced Bath Fizzers.  A gentle burst of sweet fruitiness to cleanse your skin and help leave it irresistible and gorgeous.

I have been slowly working my way through each of the bath fizzers and of course any excuse to have a bath in the run up to Christmas when shoppers are flooding supermarkets panic buying loaves of bread and milk when all you want is some Pink Gin and not to have to queue for three days, sounds pretty good to me.

In the first packet the three bath bombs are Mango, Lemon and Strawberry and all three of them are fragranced so beautifully and not at all synthetic and it is worth mentioning that they are paraben free.  Mango reminds me very much of the Mango body butter from The Body Shop - very fruity with a lovely sharp fresh scent.  Lemon is sharp and Strawberry which is my least favourite scent when it comes to anything bath related, is actually rather pleasant.

In the second box there is Coconut, Vanilla and Pineapple bath fizzers.  For me, I adore the coconut scented one, it is very coconut like and smells just incredible once it comes into contact with the water.  Vanilla is the one I will hand over to the mister to use because as a scent, I am not a fan of anything overly Vanilla scented it gives me a headache so I stay clear of it.  Pineapple, which is a work colleagues favourite scent has been gifted to her and she absolutely love it and has been and bought a box for herself.

Far from being overpriced and overhyped, a box of three bath fizzers costs only £4.99 but if you are quick and get to Boots they are on offer for just £3.33 (here) and they are well worthy of their price tag and of course they would make a great stocking filler for anyone you still have left to buy for, a bath fanatic (like me) or just because you feel you deserve some down time, me time and some relaxation.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here

THE ROCCABOX ULTIMATE GIFT BOX

The Roccabox Ultimate Box landed on my doerstep a few days ago and it is no only a limited-edition beauty hamper it is absolutely massive and contains 14 pamper products. Worth more than £60, this is a one-off purchase, not available as a subscription and is priced at just £35 here.  

Everytime I think I have found every product within the box, another one appears, so having (I think) finally found absolutely everything inside, this is what

Coconut Lane Rose Gold Marble notebook (Full size RRP £4.50) - I think absolutely everyone needs notebooks, I have quite a few stashed around the house and on my desk at work and this one is just beautiful

Spacemask Full Size RRP £3 - I did a whole post on Spacemasks (here) and in short I asolutely love them. If you need to chill out for 20-30 minutes, need an excuse to not procrastinate on Pinterest when you should be sleeping, then you need to try these masks!

Beefayre Winter Garden candle Full Size RRP £18 - With a burn time of approximately 50 hours, this candle is hand poured 100% natural plant wax and it is housed inside in glass holder with metallic sliver flower and bee print. The scent is incredibly divine and it comes from sweet earthy fresh figs, with top notes of grape and vanilla.

Blank Canvas Quick Brush Full Size RRP £14.59 - I am a huge fan of Blank Canvas brushes and this one is Brush F01 and it is a multi-purpose face brush which is handmade from extra soft, high quality anti-bacterial, easy to clean synthetic fibres, this brush is also vegan friendly.

Smashbox Always On Liquid Lipstick in Driver’s Seat Sample size - This beauty appeared in the August Roccabox and I love the shade. It is described as being an 8-hour, liquid matte lipstick that’s specifically formulated to be comfortable and not dry out your lips. Once applied it literally does not budge, feather, bleed or transfer, really comfortable to wear. (Full size RRP £19)

St.Tropez Self Tan Express Face Sheet Mask Full Size RRP £8 - Within the sachet you get one mask and it is described as being a revolutionary tanning infused Face Sheet Mask is the easiest way to tan your face- for a natural, healthy glow to suit your skin tone. Fake tan products still scare me, but I am intrigue by this.

Nip + Fab Glycolic Fix Daily Cleansing Pads Sample Size (Full size RRP £13) - I really like these and they are great for taking away with you given the size. These pads are soaked in Glycolic Acid to exfoliate and retexture the skin to reveal that brighter, smoother complexion and with added Hyaluronic Acid to give thirsty skin a moisture boost and dewy glow.

Soap & Glory Mini Rushower Dry Shampoo 50ml RRP £2.50 - Described as having Friction-activated TOUCH-RELEASE™ technology which gives your hair a gorgeous burst of mandarin rose and bergamot and in true Soap and Glory style, it smells just incredible

Burt’s Bees Cleansing Oil with coconut and argan oil Sample Size - This is a product I already know and absolutely love. Formulated with a unique blend of natural moisturisers, including Coconut and Argan Oils they not only gently remove dirt, grime and makeup, it also helps to keep your skin soft, clean, and beautifully nourished without leaving an oily residue.(Full Size RRP £16.99)

Bliss Fabulous Make-Up Melt Gel-To-Oil Cleanser Sample Size (Full Size RRP £24) - I haven't tried many Bliss products and this one is new to me completely. Described as being a product which gently removes make-up, surface oil and dirt and has a unique formula that transforms from a gel to a lightweight cleansing oil on application.

Milani HD Advanced Lip Colour in Candy Apple Full Size RRP £4.99 - This is a first for me with Milani, a brand I have my sights set on to try out. Candy Apple is described as being a True Red shade and the description is that it is a 3-in-1 lip colour that nourishes, hydrates, and delivers a sheer wash of colour with clarity and perfect radiant shine. It instantly comforts dry, chapped lips, and provides long-term moisturisation.

Omorovicza Deep cleansing mask Sample size (Full size RRP £60) - One of my favourite brands and an amazing product. Using Hungary's famous healing waters and mineral infused muds from the thermal Lake Héviz and it is rich in calcium, magnesium, zinc and copper, and it actively re-energises and brightens skin, evens tone, matifies shine and draws out impurities.

Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser Sample size (Full size RRP £35) - Described as being a gentle but efficient exfoliator, it works in two ways by dissolving dead skin cells and renewing the skin's texture. Using salicylic, lactic and glycolic acids to encourage clarity and brightness by dissolving skin cell build-up; jojoba beads to further polish and re-texturise the skin; sodium PCA and jojoba seed oil to help counteract dryness; and liquorice extract to provide anti-irritant and anti-inflammatory properties to your skin. What I like about this cleanser is how gentle but effective it is on the skin.

Bloomtown Botanicals Roll-on Infused Oil, The Rose Garden, Full size RRP £4.80- Described as being a Romantic Floral, these oils are infused with nourising oils. The Oils nourish skin without clogging pores, perfect for smoothing dry patches and applying to split ends.

That is absolutely everything from the box and it is quite an incredibe collection of products, all of which come together to create quite the pampering package to have you looking and feeling good from top to toe and relaxed!

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here

Getting Rid of a Verruca for Good

Most people get a verruca at some point in their lives. It is one of the most common foot problems. These small lumps of hard skin are actually warts. To be precise, plantar warts and they are pretty painful. Typically, they appear on the ball of the foot, which is a weight bearing area. This is part of the reason they are often so painful. 

A new way to treat verrucas

When it comes to treating verrucas there are several options. Unfortunately, not all of them are that effective. However, there is a new approach that has a very good clear up rate. Currently, it is available from Northwich Foot Clinic and a few other treatment centres.

Treating verrucas with microwave energy

The new verruca treatment method was developed in the UK and podiatrists in that country are now licensed to use it. Instead of using salicylic acid or cold sprays, this new method makes use of microwave energy. The energy is delivered via a wand that is held by the practitioner. They can calibrate the equipment to make sure that exactly the right level of power is delivered. This ensures consistency. 

Microwave energy has been used in clinical settings for over three decades now, so it is considered safe. In some countries, it is used to treat certain types of lung, liver, breast and kidney cancer. For example, in Japan, this technology is used in the treatment of some forms of liver cancer.

How microwaves kill off the verruca

When the microwave energy is delivered to the verruca cells heat is generated as the water molecules collide. This highly, localised energy quickly kills the infected tissue. 

The microwaves penetrate fast and go deep enough to destroy all of the infected tissue and verruca cells. Acids and freezing can be effective, but they work at a slower rate. The acids have to slowly work their way through the layers of the verruca and cold sprays only penetrate so far. Sometimes, it feels like the planter wart has gone, when in fact there are a few rogue cells left that gradually grow into another verruca.

A high first time clear up rate

Usually, with the microwave system only one treatment is needed. To date, most practitioners report an 80% clear up rate. This is the case, even with stubborn verrucas that have not responded to other forms of treatment. If one treatment does not work, having one further microwave session is usually enough to get rid of it for good.

Other advantages of microwave energy verruca treatments

The treatment can be delivered in seconds, so it is something you can easily get done during your lunch break. It is virtually painless. Naturally, it stings a bit when the area heats up, but most people find it no more painful that the acid or cold spray treatments. As a result, no anaesthetic spray is needed. Last, but by no means least, you can walk as normal immediately after treatment. So, you can easily go back to work.

Stop yourself from picking up more verrucas

Once you have had your verrucas treated, you will want to avoid getting anymore. You can read about how to do this, by clicking this link.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here

Getting Cosy with Christmas Candles

One thing I love about the nights drawing in is being able to come home, close the curtains, put some lamps on and light a few candles and relax.  For me having candles lit is an important of relaxation, it is said that a candle flame can help relax the mind and the association with a candle flame flickering helps to de-stress.

Christmas time is all about scents and smells from the pine needs on a Christmas Tree, to the spices of Christmas Cake and transferring those scents into that of a candle is really quite something.  Today I thought I would share some of the candles I have been burning, each scent is completely different but absolutely incredible.

Timothy Dunn London Votive collection - Presented in a limited edition box, inside are three 70g Votive Candles which smell just incredible. 

Inside the box you will find :

• Violette de Lune - The description reads: This deep, exotic, floriental scent is intertwined with seductive amber woods and elegant musks, opening with cassis and dark violet. An indulgent blend of the precious oils Moroccan rose and neroli flower are combined with sensual sandalwood, patchouli, red tea, wild jasmine and a hint of luxurious dark chocolate
• Arabian Fig – The description reads: A complex blend of green fig leaf, basil and clove, tenderly enhanced with frankincense, this deliciously aromatic candle has a hint of wild fig, cassis rose and jasmine with the rich base notes of sandalwood, cedarwood and musk.
• Samarkand – Alongside Etrusca and Bleu Rose this is up there with my favourite Timothy Dunn London Candles and the description reads:  Discover a rich, sensual spicy wood accord with exotic tea, bergamot, cardamom, ginger, cinnamon and clove; generously wrapped in sumptuous Madagascan vanilla, suede musks, frankincense, patchouli and vetiver. This beautiful, evocative fragrance will radiate warmth throughout your home.

You can burn these candles one at a time or together and either way, the fresh scents come to live and fill the house with such amazing scents. You can find this set right here and each Votive burns for around 15-20 hours.

Balance Me, Me Time Candle - When a candle is called Me Time, you know it is one you need in your life and that it will be really special. Formulated with a premium blend of soy and vegetable waxes to ensure a clean, even burn time it features a bespoke blend of pure essential oils, this candle is designed to relax the mind, relieve tension and evoke a sense of balance and wellbeing. With a blend of harmonising ingredients, Petitgrain, Cedarwood, Rosemary, Ylang Ylang and Lavender, designed to clear the mind of worries. 

What I love about this candle is the incredibly relaxing scent which comes to life as soon as the candle has been lit.  Even when the candle flame has been extinguished, the scent lingers for an incredibly long time afterwards.  Priced at £35 you can find this candle right here.

ESPA Winter Pine Candle - If ever there was a brand which just screams Spa Day it is ESPA.  Until recently I had no idea they made their own candles, so when Winter Pine arrived, it was opened and alight pretty quickly.  The candle comes beautifully presented in an ESPA gift box, finished with a hand-tied green ribbon to really make it look festive.

The scent of the candle really lives up to its name as it boasts the warming aromas of Cinnamon, Eucalyptus and Pine which just remind me of Christmas.  This is a 200g candle with over 40 hours of burn time and it retails for £30 right here.

La Montana Duo Mini Candle Gift Set - Nestled inside a beautiful starry box are two incredible scented La Montana Candles.   

Again if anything signifies Christmas is coming it is Winter Oranges and the Three Kinds Candles.

• Winter Oranges candle – Described as being a warm, spicy, zesty blend of Valencia orange, cinnamon, red apple, and clove for me this candle definitely brings about nostalgia from my Christmases as a child when christmas cakes and puddings were being steamed for the big day. The aroma is so fresh that again it comes to life as soon as the candle is alight.
• Three Kings candle – Despite the name, which of course reminds me of a Christmas Nativity Play, Cedarwood, Frankincense and Myrrh. It is quite a unique fragrance which brings all three scents to life in one candle and it is simply divine.

These mini candles are 80gms of top quality wax and have a burn time for at least 15 hours. This set would make an incredible gift and it retails for just £32.

Heyland and Whittle if you have never come across them before is a quality soap and home fragrance manufacturer based in England. They have an entire range of candles to die for and today I am sharing two different ones. First up is Clementine & Prosecco which smells absolutely incredible even before it is out of the box. Much like a fragrance it has top notes of Clementine, sparkling wine, yellow apple and pear, incorporated with middle notes of apricot, peach, plum and a base note of sugar and dry fruits.  Coming together this is a candle which offers a sweet and sharp fragrance which again brings about that relaxing scent of the holidays. Priced at just £23.

Also from Heyland and Whittle is Frankincense in a Tin and made from a blend of sustainable soy wax which helps it to burn very evenly down the tin, comes a scent which is most definitely Christmas. The notes for the candle state that it is a Smoky sweet and woody with a whisper of Oriental florals A sophisticated layered fragrance which is packed with notes of Rose, Jasmine, Cistus Oil and Cinnamon resting on an Oriental background of Frankincense, Oud, Musk and warm Vanilla.  This candle is priced at £13.95.

So those are the candles I have been burning of late and I would love to know which ones you have been using over the last few weeks.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here

The Hair Lovers Guide - BeautyQueenUK Gift Guide

I spend quite a lot of money to ensure my hair is looked after and this involves a regular trim, not over washing, hair masks, not too much heat and of course using my Aquis Towel when drying my hair. With that in mind, I have put together a little guide of products for those of us who love hair care and it features some amazing products.

label.m is one of the very first hair care brands I worked with when I started blogging and even today, I still continuously use the Honey and Oat hair mask which fits into my routine. This Christmas, label.m have collaborated with House of Holland to bring to you some limited edition products. 

Inside this cool clutch bag featuring the print from Henry Holland’s AW 17 collection, I have the Deep Cleansing Shampoo and Leave in Conditioner, both of which are 300ml to give you an idea of the size of the clutch.

Next up we have this amazing collection from Curlformers. If you have never heard of them before are the world’s only patented, heat-free, salon-quality hair curler and are perfect for all ages and all hair types, wigs, and weaves.   My hair is naturally wavy and curling it is not something I am great at doing, I usually end up with a burn or three on my arm, ear or head.

With Curlformers you have the chance to create your curls without using heat and depending upon your preference you can choose to create barrel curls, spiral curls and even corkscrew curls because there is a kit for each style and you simply choose accordingly.  Having expected to find these a faff to deal with, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it is and how well the curls are created and how long they last, especially without using heat.  

Phil Smith has been a new brand for me to try and the Living La Vida Loca - Coco Liscious Gift Set is an absolute must for anyone who loves the scent of coconut.

This kit contains four products: 

• Coconut Oil Shampoo which is described as being a lightweight nourishing cleanse for super-soft, super-shiny hair.
• Coconut Oil Conditioner which is again described as being lightweight which will leave your hair with a bright, pure shine.
• Coconut Dry Shampoo which smells just incredible, reminds me of being on holiday and it works really well with my oily roots.
• Hold Up Gentle Tie Hairbands which are great for putting your hair up without the fear of leaving kinks in it when removed.

This amazing set is exclusively available from Sainsburys and the kit costs just £8.50 here.

The Tangle Angel brush is one of those products I have seen all over my social media and they look just so incredible and I now have one of my very own in shade Fab Fuchsia. Described as being the original detangling hairbrush, is not only perfect for detangling both wet and dry hair, but also makes a great blow drying brush and is suitable for all hair types.

Founded by celebrity hairdresser Richard Ward who is renowned globally as the man responsible for HRH The Duchess of Cambridge’s hair. The Tangle Angel came about after 5 years of innovative scientific development alongside the original there is an entire range for detangling, styling and even something for your pet. What I love about the Tangle Angel is that it manages to glide through my hair without scratching my scalp or ripping my hair out. It is rare that my hair gets knotty and tangled, but when it does, it really knots, so I need something that won't leave me with hardly any hair when I brush it through and this does an amazing job and it costs just £12 here.

Then whilst your hair looks and smells amazing and you need to be ready for your Christmas Party, Scunci have some amazing hair tools and accessories to dazzle. Describing themselves as being a fashion-forward, innovative hair accessory brand with only one aim in mind, keeping your hair looking beautiful! 

I was kindly sent a few to have a play with and they include some clips and grips with incredible detailing.  Prices for this range start from just £2.75 and go upwards to around £8 making them really budget friendly.

I would love to know what hair care you are hoping to find under your tree this Christmas.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here