Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and so it will soon be time to start your beauty preparation for the big day. Here at HCX, we decided to make things a little easier for you and provide you with a pampering plan full of our favourite products and top tips. From top to toe, we bring you the ultimate list to ensure that you’ll be looking and feeling as gorgeous as possible for that special someone.
Hair
If you don’t have the time or money for a salon visit before Valentine’s Day then an at-home hair treatment can restore body and shine to lifeless locks. Aussie have a fantastic range of ‘3 Minute Miracle’ deep conditioning treatments to suit all hair types. They can be used quickly in the shower, smell incredible, and are just £4.99 each.
Top tip: Wash your hair the night before to make it easier to style the next day, especially if you’re planning to curl it.
Face Mask
The classic pampering product, a face mask leaves your skin glowing and feeling soft. The Body Shop’s ‘Honey & Oat 3-in-1 Scrub Mask’ is a do-it-all product that cleanses, polishes and moisturises, removing dead skin cells and leaving your skin in great condition. If you’re in the mood for some DIY beauty then make your own face mask by mixing together one tablespoon of oats, one tablespoon of natural yoghurt and a few drops of honey.
Top tip: Always remember to cleanse your skin before applying a face mask.
Nails
Bad nails are a big turn-off so make sure yours look perfect for the big night. If you can’t afford a salon manicure, then good quality nail products will do just as good a job. Begin by filing your nails – a slightly rounded shape is always a winner and is easy to achieve. Next, use a hoof stick to gently neaten your cuticles before applying cuticle oil. Finally, it’s time for the polish! If you love all things girly then MAC’s ‘Steamy’ nail lacquer is a perfectly chic hot pink, or if you fancy something more sophisticated then nails inc.’s ‘Tate’ polish is a classic red shade that will look fabulous on anyone.
Top tip: Apply nail polish remover to your nails before you paint them – it helps the polish to stick and prevents chipping.
Hair removal
Possibly the most important part of your pre-Valentine’s Day ritual, there are numerous ways to remove any unwanted hair. We all know that waxing is probably the most effective method, but for those of you who don’t like the pain then shaving or hair removal cream is still a great option. Check out Her Campus’s ‘Complete ‘Down-There’ Grooming Guide’ for some brilliant tips and more information: http://www.hercampus.com/health/sexual-health/your-complete-down-there-grooming-guide.
Top tip: To avoid ingrown hairs, exfoliate and moisturise the skin every two to three days. Wait a day after shaving and around three days after waxing.
Exfoliate
For super smooth skin, it’s essential to exfoliate. Use a circular movement to ensure a gentle yet effective scrub. Soap & Glory’s ‘Breakfast Scrub’ contains organic cupuacu bio scrubs, almond and honey extracts, and is our favourite exfoliating product.
Top tip: Don’t forget your lips! Use a mixture of sugar and olive oil for a gentle homemade scrub that will leave your lips beautifully kissable.
Moisturise
If you’re going to splash out on any product for the big day then we think it should be a good quality moisturiser. The finishing touch in your pre-Valentine’s Day plan, moisturiser will leave your skin deliciously smooth and smelling great.‘Ro’s Argan Body Conditioner’ from Lush is the ultimate Valentine’s treat, packed full of rose oil and vanilla, the scent is subtle and romantic.
Top tip: If you’re in a rush to get dressed after moisturising then use talc or dusting powder to absorb any excess moisture.
Picture credits:
pinterest.com; independent.co.uk; nailsinc.com; lush.co.uk