Hi Guys,

This post is all about my favourite types of mask and which ones I use in my skin care routine.  I really enjoy masks as I find them the perfect way to pamper yourself while still being able to get on with my daily chores! I have tried to include a range of different types, so let's get stuck in.

1. The Body Shop Himalayan Charcoal Purifying Glow Mask - (£16)

This is my holy grail mask. With a lot of masks, you need to continue to use them to see an effect, but not with this one. The effects are immediate. As the name suggests, this mask is actually a clay paste which can be applied to the face with a brush or fingers (I prefer a brush as it can get a bit messy). It contains charcoal, green tea leaves and tea tree oil and as it dries you can actually see it drawing out the impurities in your skin as they dry a darker colour. If you have oily skin this mask is perfect for you, as it absorbs all the excess oil and literally leaves your skin glowing. I love it so much I can't wait to try the other masks in this range. This mask is not for the light-hearted though, as it is very tingly!

2. *Jamela 24K Gold Crystal Facial Collagen Masks & Mineral Collagen Facial Masks - (£49.50, 5 pack)

3. *Exuviance Rejuvenating Masque Treatment - (from £23.75)

This mask is actually a peel off mask and one of the best parts is the peeling process! It's so satisfying. Like peeling PVA glue off my hand (tell me you used to do that at school too?!). You simply apply a thin layer over the face, leave to dry and then peel off. What I love about this mask is that it leaves my skin feeling hydrated and smooth. It is the type of mask that needs to be used consistently as it encourages cell turnover and therefore is anti-ageing. I absolutely love the smell of this mask, it is so refreshing. If you're into you anti-ageing then this one is definitely for you.

4. Skin & Tonic London Gentle Scrub - (£18)

Now I hear you saying this isn't a mask. No, you're right it's a scrub. However as suggested on the bottle, if mixed with honey and yoghurt this can me made into a mask! I love the idea of home made masks and this makes it feel even more organic. The bottle contains a clay powder which can be mixed with water for a daily scrub too. It contains things like rose hip powder, geranium leaf oil, and probiotic yoghurt powder which are full of vitamin C and great for evening out your complexion. If you don't mind getting your fingers dirty then get stuck in and have go.

Hi Guys,

Just to set the scene, I am currently sat here typing this with a face mask on that smells divine. I'm feeling very refreshed, as I was lucky enough to be sent the Little Bit Lavish box this month. You may have read my previous posts featuring it titled Which subscription box? or The Blogger Tiki party where I was first introduced to the box. The Little Bit Lavish box (£20 per month) is a relatively new subscription box which has been created for those of us who love to discover new brands and, as the name suggests, love a bit of luxury in our lives. If you have read my previous posts you will know I have a passion for this box and this month's definitely didn't disappoint!

The theme for this month was 'Wakey Wakey' and was exactly what I needed what with the dark mornings and early sunsets. Oh and add to that a one year old who just loves to come into mummy's bed mid way through the night.  So anything to help me wake up in the morning was going to be welcomed!

In this month's box you get exactly what you need to start you day perfectly. Firstly it includes a Skin & Tonic London 'Gentle Scrub'. This is a beautiful powder that can be mixed with water for a daily scrub or mixed with honey to be used as a mask (what I'm currently wearing). It has a beautiful scent which is largely due to the rosehip powder that is included. It is preservative and cruelty free and feels great on my face. Wondering what to mix the powder in? Don't worry the box has it covered, as another one of the products is a tiny hand made dish by Megan Louise ceramics, the perfect size to mix your mask in!

Another thing I was pleased to see in the box was a Miss Patisserie 'Shower Steamer'. We don't all have time for a lovely soak in the morning so the steamer is perfect for those of us who are in a rush. Just break it in half and place it in the shower and the aromatherapy oils will do all the hard work. The smell of the spearmint and peppermint hit me when I first opened the box and definitely woke me up in the shower.

One of my favourite picks from the box is the Balm Balm 'Rose Geranium Face Balm'. This is a multi tasking balm that can be used anywhere. When you first squeeze it out it feels slightly grainy but once rubbed in the warmth turns it into an oil which is highly moisturising. I have particularly been enjoying using this on my lips and dry knuckles in this cold weather!

Another fantastic product is the Evolve Organic Beauty, 'Citrus Blend Aromatic Wash'. This smells exactly how it sounds. Citrusy, zingy and fresh. Just what you need to start your day with a bang. It is meant for body and hands and is actually the perfect size to carry in your handbag, which is exactly what I have been doing. It's so annoying when you're in a public place and there is no soap! So this is perfect for those exact moments.

The final treat is a hand made Stoats 'Raspberry and Honey Porridge Oat Bar'. This was so yummy! Definitely going to be buying these in future for a mid morning snack!

I have to say my favourites this month were definitely the Skin and Tonic Scrub and the Balm Balm Multi Purpose Balm. It's a great box, for fantastic value. Have you tried Little Bit Lavish yet? Will you be subscribing? To tempt you even further, they are offering any first time buyers 10% off with the code: LAVISHFIRST. But if you want this month's box hurry because I hear there are only a few left!

Amina xx

*Product was gifted to me. All opinions are my own.