The party season is in full swing and we all want to look our best. However, if you're anything like us, the Christmas shopping, mince pies and mulled wine are probably starting to take their toll. Fear not, we'll have you mistletoe ready in no time. Yep, it's time for a bit of undisturbed pampering. So, take the phone off the hook, pour yourself a large glass of vino and set the scene with the music of your choice.
First off, treat your locks to a deep conditioning hair mask, to bring some life back into them. For best results, shampoo and rinse, apply the mask, wrap in cling film or a shower cap and towel, and leave for at least 15 minutes. (This is the perfect time for a good soak in the bath.) Buff your dry skin away with a good all over body scrub, such as Body Therapy Spa Smooth and Svelte at £4.99 from Tesco, and a facial exfoliator. Personally, I'm not a fan of most facial scrubs, as I have sensitive skin and they tend to aggravate it. Origins Swept Away at £14.50 is great though, as it uses jojoba beads and oats to slough away dead skin, without scratching. For a budget version, try Neutrogena Visibly Clear Gentle Exfoliating Wash at £3.79.
A deeply moisturising face mask is a must to combat the effects of winter chill and air conditioning. A personal favourite is L'Occitane Honey Comfort Face Mask at £20, which smells divine and leaves your skin feeling baby soft. You only need small amount, so the jar lasts for ages. Whatever face mask you choose, it's a good idea to do it a few days before a party, rather than on the night, as on occasion it can lead to the odd spot.
Take the time to really massage in a body cream, such as Boots Skin Therapy Aqueous Cream at £4.49, which is great for dry, winter worn skin. The massage action will help your body to dispel toxins and break down cellulite.
Prepare your feet for those party sandals with a moisturising foot rub and home pedicure. Elle Macpherson Pedicure in a Jar at £9.95 from Boots is a real treat for your feet. Containing menthol, honey and vitamin E, it's as soothing as they come. For best results, slather it on, pull on the enclosed socks and relax in front of the telly.
Whether you have a party coming up or not, a fake tan will help to lift your sprits. I've tried pretty much all of them, but always end up going back to Origins The Great Pretender body self-tanner at £13.50 and Faux Glow face tanner also at £13.50. They are easy to apply and give you a really natural looking colour, for half the price of St Tropez.
Finally, it's a good idea to stock up on some multivitamins, as your immune system will be feeling the strain. Start a course of Echinacea to keep the colds at bay, and make sure you have plenty of milk thistle at hand to help your liver to cope with the excess alcohol!
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