Lotion vs. Oil: Why You Should Make The Change

I try very hard to not put lotion on my skin due to have acne prone skin, then my friend handed me a bottle of jojoba oil in my hand and sent me on my way.

Now I’ve been putting this stuff on my face for almost two months, and I absolutely love it. It’s lightweight, gives my complexion an even matte finish, and at the same time, feels ultra-nourishing as I lightly massage it around my eyes, cheekbones, across my forehead, and finally my chin. You would think that the oil would cause my sensitive skin to break out and clog my pores, but no — it doesn’t.

The experience caused my awareness to perk up, and I started to notice other girls talking about face oil over dinner, online – I couldn’t escape the topic. It seemed everywhere I looked, moisturising your face with oil had suddenly become all the rage.

The Benefits of Oil:

1. Oils lock in moisture and help protect the skin against environmental effects.
2. Oils deliver a potent dose of nutrients
3. Because your face is well moisturised, it will stop the overproduction of its own oil, and you’ll avoid that shiny t-zone look.
4. Oils can be all natural, need no preservatives, and have a shelf life of about two years.
5. Most natural oils are easily absorbed and won’t clog pores.
6. Oils are typically ultra-healing, and great for repairing skin.

Tip: Don’t purchase oils extracted with heat or harsh chemicals as these will cause the oils to break down, and diminish their quality. Look for labels that say cold-pressed or CO2 extracted. Also, stay away from anything with words like “parfum” or “fragrance.” These are generally chemical additives, and not what you want to put on your face. At the same time, many of today’s oils are mixed with herbs and flowers for added benefits and scents. So long as they are natural, you’re good. Look for “certified organic.”

The Downfall of Lotion: There has been a recent migration in mankind’s way of thinking towards a desire for holistic products. We all of a sudden care what we put on our skin, and what enters our bodies. Lotion is usually made from a combination of oil and water, and the presence of water causes bacteria to form and makes the oil go rancid. To prevent this, all lotions must contain a preservative of some kind to keep them from going bad. That preservative is almost never natural, and – if avoidable – something you rather not put on your face.

Now, if you’re new to moisturizing with oil, here is a little break down of what oils you’re likely to come across. Please note, many lines will combine oils.

Jojoba Oil: The makeup of Jojoba oil almost mirrors that of our skin’s natural sebum (protective barrier). It thus helps to control the over production of sebum, won’t clog pores, and helps protect the skin. Vitamin-wise, it’s rich in vitamin E, and is a great source of antioxidants. Try: Caru Skincare Organic Jojoba Oil Facial Moisturizer

Almond Oil: Almond oil is great for deep moisturizing and to soothe dry or irritated skin. It’s rich in vitamins A, B, and E. Try: Aurelia Probiotic Skincare

Argan Oil: This one is popular in the anti-aging world. Argan oil helps with wrinkles, soothes conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, acne, and dry skin. It is rich in vitamin E, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants. Try: Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil Light

Seaberry: Seaberry makes a great protective layer. It’s packed with omega fatty acids that create a barrier while moisturizing and nourishing. Try: Seaberry Moisturizing Facial Oil

Rose Hip Oil: Unlike the others already mentioned, rose hip is rich in vitamin C which makes it great for skin repair. It helps with red marks or scarring, but is best when mixed with one of the oils already mentioned. Try: Melvita Rose Hip Oil

Happy moisturising everyone!

End Of Summer Face Mask!

As much as we don’t want to admit it, we’ve all done it. Sunburns… they’re an almost inevitable part of summer. Whether your sunscreen failed or you forgot it all together, we’ve all had a burn or two in our day. Sunburns — and sun exposure in general — put our skin through the ringer during these hot and months, and by the end of the season our skin can be left feeling parched and flaky. Definitely not a great way to welcome autumn. (Yes, even in the UK we don't realise how powerful that ball of heat is, even when it doesn't feel it!)

So here is the perfect gift to give your skin after three months of UV rays. Composed of natural oils to de-puff and replenish, hydrating raw honey, and naturally ex-foliating organic yogurt, this concoction is perfect for this transitional time of year.

Ingredients:

2  Tbs raw honey
2 Tbs almond oil
2 Tbs olive or jojoba oil
1/2 cup organic yogurt
Small bowl or container
Fork

Place the honey in the container and warm it in the microwave for about 20 seconds.  Next, add the almond oil and stir.  After you’ve combined the honey and almond oil, add the olive oil. Next add the yogurt and gently whisk with a fork until smooth.  Apply to a clean face — being sure to avoid the eye area — and leave on for 30 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry with a fresh towel.

Would you try this mask?

Secret Scrubber From The Sea!

I recently discovered something pretty amazing, and today I want to share the little secret with you. It’s a beauty secret; one that’s all natural, unique, and straight from the sea.

 Mermaid Scrubbers. Have you heard of these things? One of my beauty blogging girlfriends encouraged me to try them out. At first I had no idea what she meant when she said “mermaid scrubber”, but I mean, if the word ‘mermaid’ pops up in the company of natural beauty products, I’m immediately interested.

The scrubbers are actually natural seaweed that’s been dried and packaged up to lend it’s magic to the skin. Gigartina Red Marine Algae is a type of seaweed harvested in the waters of Mendocino County, CA. It’s dark green in colour, and almost feels like coral to the touch. When met with water, the algae softens up and releases an all-natural gel that cleanses and nourishes the skin. The scrubbers can be used on multiple parts of the body, and in addition to exfoliating and toning the face, the gel released by the scrubbers is perfect for shaving. Each package of Mermaid Scrubbers comes with 6 dried pieces of the algae, and one of the best parts is how affordable it is… less than $10 for a package, and they’re reusable! and they ship to the UK! 

I strongly urge you to try them out!

Beauty Rituals: 4 Ways To Detox Your Body

Our bodies themselves are perhaps the most incredible detoxification systems that exist. I once saw a holistic doctor, and he told me that, as long as our bodies are functioning properly, we could “eat a bowl full of parasites and be totally fine.” And it’s true.

The thing is, though, when we overload our own bodies with toxins – through things like unclean, processed foods; chemical-laden beauty products; alcohol; and especially negative thoughts – our systems don’t function as efficiently as they truly should. To help get ourselves back on track, it’s about eating clean, avoiding chemicals, getting enough sleep, moving our bodies, and avoiding negativity. But, since I know you already know all of that, here are four more things you can do to help move those toxins through your body so that they can be removed for good.

 

Yoga

In addition to helping detoxify the mind, yoga is a beautiful practice for cleansing the body. The pushing, pulling, stretching movements of every part of your body – in combination with deep, rhythmic yogic breathing – cleanses the body by helping along the removal process of waste products throughout. One of the very best yoga poses for detoxification? Downward dog.

Abhyanga

This is an ayurvedic massage performed by vigorously stroking the skin in upward motions toward the heart, using a special oil blend that corresponds to your primary dosha. According to my ayurvedic practitioner, Abhyanga “moves obstruction in the lymphatic and circulatory systems, which enhances the health of the skin, organs, and endocrine system.” Daily Abhyanga, usually performed on one’s own self, is one of the main practices in Ayurveda. If you aren’t familiar with it, though, I would suggest your first experience to be a treatment performed by a well-versed ayurvedic practitioner. It’s incredible, and you will not regret it.

 

Oil pulling

 

If you’re not yet aware, oil pulling is an ancient Indian practice performed by swishing a high quality oil (such as organic unrefined coconut oil) in the mouth for about 20 minutes, aiming to pull toxins from the body. Studies show that oil pulling has incredible benefits for oral health – like whitening teeth and preventing disease – but many believe that this practice can help remove toxins from the entire body, bringing overall health to a maximum. Just make sure you’re up to date with your dental visits before beginning. When asked a dentist who explained to me that the presence of plaque will prevent the oil from penetrating the gums, greatly taking away from the effectiveness of the practice.

 

 

Dry brushing

This practice is similar to Abhyanga in that it stimulates the lymphatic and circulatory systems, helping to speed up the removal of metabolic waste from the body. It also offers a ton of other benefits, from unclogging the pores and exfoliating the skin, reducing the appearance of cellulite and possibly even improving digestion. All you need is a good body brush with natural bristles. Before you bathe, brush your dry skin in large, upward stroking motions, always going towards the heart – this encourages lymph flow in the proper direction. Once you’ve finished, take your shower, and emerge with smooth skin and a soothed mind.

What other ways to you help your body to detoxify itself? Please share!

Pixie's Skincare Tips!

Hello all! So a lot of you have been asking for my skincare regime for a while now so I figured maybe it's time to get it out there for you! 

I change it slightly to try out new products when the ones I use eventually run out, so I'll let you know what I've been using the past month or two and if you like this one I can do another post of new products that I've experimented with.

SO! You've all asked so many different questions Lets just try cover everything:

Daily routine

When I awaken from the ever so important beauty sleep I give my face a really good clean using Porridge by Lush Cosmetics. (Yep you probably already guessed there was going to be Lush cosmetics in this)! 

Then before applying any make-up if I choose to wear any that day I put on a moisturiser called Vanishing Cream also by Lush. This moisturiser is my most favourite product in this post. It was recommended by a friend months ago and I haven't been able to live without it since. It's around £18 but you only need to use a tiny bit and it lasts for ages. I don't like to wear make-up everyday because my skin is so sensitive and it needs a break so most the time I just put this silky moisturiser on for the day!

Removing makeup

Right. In terms of make-up remover, cleanser, toner and moisturiser it can vary with skin types. I'm only letting you all know what I personally like to use for my skin but if you have any questions on products you're more than welcome to send a tweet/DM/comment.

ANYWAY. I've recently come across a vegan brand (I know a lot of you followers are vegans so if you haven't already heard of this brand you're welcome!).

To remove make-up I use the Organic Eye and Makeup Remover by Inika. As you know my skin is sensitive and the dry or oily state it's in can change a lot, but this particular product, although new in my routine, seems to work for me no matter what state my skin is in, leaving it feeling fresh. So I will definitely buy again when it has run out!

Now for the cleanser. Current favourite is Let The Good Times Roll by Lush. This particular cleanser is best if you have sensitive skin that is prone to being quite dry and sore. Its got enough scrub to help even out the skin and clean it properly, but not too much to leave it feeling raw. Oh and it smells good enough to eat!

I invested in the Tea Tree Facial toner from The Body Shop about two months ago and definitely would buy it again. This really helps clear up any spots and keep them away, leaves the skin feeling hydrated, smells amazing and seems to last for ages!

Moisturiser as I've already mentioned is the lovely Vanishing Cream also by Lush. When you find a moisturiser that works with your skin perfectly (I'm hoping its this one because it's an all rounder) then try to remember to use it twice a day everyday if you can. Once in the morning and once before bed if you want the best results.

Extra weekly care - Treat yourself! 

If you're either having a quiet weekend in or night out we all deserve a pampering evening. So whether you're staying in with Netflix or need some you time the day after dancing like Beyoncé, these products are great for relaxing/recovering.

Mask of Magnaminty. It smells incredible, doesn't sting the skin, leaves it feeling really refreshed and rejuvenated AND its green. Those of you that have been following me for a while know how much of a bonus that is! This comes in a decent sized pot and can be used on the body too.

Whilst this face mask is doing its magic I recommend a hot bath with a new bath bomb to try out each week. The latest one that I love (and I've noticed a lot of you love it too already) is Intergalactic by Lush. I don't feel like I can describe as well as the Lush Cosmetics website does so if you haven't already read it, enjoy:

"Ever wondered what bathing in deep space would be like? Invite the cosmos into your bathroom with this sexy, interstellar bomb and become the guardian of your own galaxy. An awesome mix of refreshing peppermint and neon colour sends your mood rocketing, while popping candy takes you on a trip around the Milky Way. Constellations swirl and pop, creating vibrant lustre vortexes in the night sky. Before you leap too far, rogue layers of vetivert and cedarwood take hold, evoking the warmth of human contact far from home and a hint of 80s aftershave. Return from your intergalactic brief encounter as the grounding scent brings you gently back from orbit."

And yes, it 100% lives up to its expectations! After using it once I went back to my local Lush store the next day and got 3 more! Not only is it beautiful before you use it but it leaves your bath water a deep blue colour with specks of glitter in it and smells AMAZING!

I'm no skin expert I just try out different products and see what suits my skin. It varies for a lot of us but I hope this has helped most of you and maybe you've discovered some new products you didn't even know existed! 

As well as all of this information the main most important things that will help your skin is a healthy diet and plenty of WATER! I can't stress it enough how much of a difference is makes to your skin keeping yourself hydrated and healthy.

Love, Pixie 

Twitter / Instagram

Mermaid Spray For Beachy Waves

source

Salt on the skin, sun kissing the nose, piecey waves in the hair. A day spent in the spa has absolutely nothing on a day spent on the beach.

For those of us in the chillier portions of the world, days under the salty, bright skies are juuust out of reach, but that doesn’t mean we can’t achieve the beach’s beauty-enhancing effects on our own — namely: those gorgeously natural piecey, beachy waves formed when the sea meets your locks and the sun sets them to dry.

So we have got the perfect natural spray that is super easy to make - Mermaid Spray!

Ingredients:
1 cup warm water
1 tablespoon natural sea salt
2 teaspoons organic coconut oil
2 teaspoons aloe vera gel (straight from the plant if possible!)
5-10 drops essential oil of your choice (we used lavender)

Source

To make, combine all ingredients into an empty spray bottle. Screw on the cap, shake well, and you’re ready to go! Experiment with different types of essential oils to find which scent you love most. I stuck with lavender this time, which smells beautiful in combination with the coconut oil, but I think this would be great with some lemongrass or other citrus scents, as well.

Source

To use, just spray the mixture onto damp hair, scrunch to form piecey waves, and then let air dry. Voila! You’re a beach babe. I also like to spray this in my hair near the roots when it’s already dry, and then blast with a hair-dryer for added texture and volume.

Ways To Detox Your Body!

I have been living pretty unhealthy lately, and decided to make some changes, the body is a marvellous the thing is, though, when we overload our own bodies with toxins – through things like unclean, processed foods; chemical-laden beauty products; alcohol; and especially negative thoughts – our systems don’t function as efficiently as they truly should. To help get ourselves back on track, it’s about eating clean, avoiding chemicals, getting enough sleep, moving our bodies, and avoiding negativity. But, since I know you already know all of that, here are a couple more things you can do to help move those toxins through your body so that they can be removed for good.

Yoga

Now I am NO expert and I have only recently started but Yoga is fantastic.

In addition to helping detoxify the mind, yoga is a beautiful practice for cleansing the body. The pushing, pulling, stretching movements of every part of your body – in combination with deep, rhythmic yogic breathing – cleanses the body by helping along the removal process of waste products throughout. One of the very best yoga poses for detoxification? Downward dog.

Abhyanga Massage

My friend introduced this to me literally two weeks ago (and I am a fan!) This is an ayurvedic massage performed by vigorously stroking the skin in upward motions toward the heart, using a special oil blend that corresponds to your primary dosha. According to the ayurvedic practitioner, I saw Abhyanga “moves obstruction in the lymphatic and circulatory systems, which enhances the health of the skin, organs, and endocrine system.” Daily Abhyanga, usually performed on one’s own self, is one of the main practices in Ayurveda. If you aren’t familiar with it, though, I would suggest your first experience to be a treatment performed by a well-versed ayurvedic practitioner. It’s incredible, and you will not regret it.

Oil pulling

If you’re not yet aware, (and I wasn't) oil pulling is an ancient Indian practice performed by swishing a high quality oil (such as organic unrefined coconut oil) in the mouth for about 20 minutes, aiming to pull toxins from the body. Studies show that oil pulling has incredible benefits for oral health – like whitening teeth and preventing disease – but many believe that this practice can help remove toxins from the entire body, bringing overall health to a maximum.

Dry brushing

This practice is similar to Abhyanga in that it stimulates the lymphatic and circulatory systems, helping to speed up the removal of metabolic waste from the body. It also offers a ton of other benefits, from unclogging the pores and exfoliating the skin, reducing the appearance of cellulite and possibly even improving digestion. All you need is a good body brush with natural bristles. Before you bathe, brush your dry skin in large, upward stroking motions, always going towards the heart – this encourages lymph flow in the proper direction. Once you’ve finished, take your shower, and emerge with smooth skin and a soothed mind. (Read our post about dry brushing!)

What other ways to you help your body to detoxify itself? Please share!

Homemade Floral and Herb Steams!

Spa treatments are the ultimate indulgence. They can make you feel just like a queen. This time of year amongst all the partying and junk food we need a little pick up!

I just discovered that you can create home-made facials using dried herbs, flowers, and oils… and I’m quite the happy girl. Today I’m sharing 3 separate recipes with you all: one each for normal, oily, and dry skin. 

 

 

To make: Add dried flowers and/or herbs of your choice to a teapot along with 2 cups of boiling water. Allow to steep for ten minutes, then press or strain out herbs/flowers, pouring the hot infusion into a sink or large bowl. Add in any essential oils at this point. Then, hang your head over the bowl/sink, about 6-8 inches away, and drape a towel over your head, creating a steam tent. Steam your face and neck for about 5 minutes, remembering to breathe in the gorgeous scent you’ve created. Then rinse your face and neck with lukewarm water and pat dry.

You can create any mixture of herbs, flowers, and essential oils you like — just make sure to get the best quality materials you can find. Here are 3 mixtures to start you off!

Normal Skin: Use Rose Petals, Chamomile, Lavender, Lemon and Geranium Essential Oil 

Oily Skin: Rosemary, Chamomile, Thyme, Lavender and Eucalyptus

 

Dry Skin: Rose Petals, Peppermint Leaves, Calendula Flowers, Chamomile, Fennel. 

You can even bottle up a dried mixture and store for later use. It should last at least a month in an airtight container. Which herbs and flowers will you add into your mixture?

Strawberry Beauty Tips!

The strawberry: red, juicy, delicious…it’s like nature’s little heart. I wanted to explore some unique ways that you can incorporate this tasty fruit into your daily beauty routine. Packed with nutrients and benefits, check out these three simple recipes that will help you look your best!

 

Strawberry Face Mask
 

 Strawberries are great for getting your skin to look its best, and this mask will help to exfoliate, renew and brighten your face. All you need is a couple strawberries, some plain yogurt, and honey. Slice up and mash together the strawberries before adding in a spoonful of honey and yoghurt. Mix all of the ingredients together and spread evenly across your face. After 15 minutes, wash the mask off to reveal soft, glowing skin!

Strawberry Hair Mask

 Strawberries are packed with vitamin C which is helpful in nourishing the hair, and they also have the ability to get rid of any excess oil build-up that your scalp may be holding in. This hair mask will help you get those shiny locks that you have always dreamed of — and not to mention it smells amazing! Blend together 5 to 7 strawberries (depending on the amount of hair you have), and a tablespoon each of coconut oil and honey until a smooth purée is formed. Work the mixture into damp hair while massaging your roots, then rinse away with warm water. This recipe is a cheap and natural alternative to store bought hair masks which can be expensive and packed with chemicals.

Strawberry Detox Water

Drinking water is a natural way to clear out our bodies, but adding in a few more ingredients can turn it into a powerful detox drink that can flush away all unwanted toxins. I tried a refreshing combination of strawberries, lemon and mint. Lemon juice cleanses, alkalises, and boosts the immune system, while mint leaves a cool flavour and helps to settle the stomach. Strawberries will add in flavour, antioxidants and skin enhancing nutrients. All you need is a handful of sliced up strawberries, a few lemon wedges, and a couple sprigs of mint. Add all the ingredients to a pitcher of water and set aside in the fridge while the flavours build up.

Let me know if you try any! 

Keeping Your Eyebrows In Check!

Oh eyebrows! how strong is your eyebrow game? Now to be honest I always get mine threaded, I would be deadly if I had to do them myself. However here are our tips on keeping them in check in the interim! 

Eyebrows can make your face, as they frame and enlarge your eye. A bit of shaping can change the way you look. They can hide your flaws, and enhance your beauty spots. 

The beginning of the eyebrow should be in line with the inner corner of the eye, and should end just beyond the eye. A perfect arch. The greater the distance between the two eyebrows the wider your nose will look. 

Tweeze hairs on nose bridge (if any) immediately, too unsightly.

Remove hairs that are obviously outside the natural shape. 

When tweezing, remove a few hairs from one eye, then alternate to other brow.  Yo Yo back and forth. This eliminates over-tweezing and helps achieve a more balanced look. 

Pluck from under arch up. Never destroy top natural arch of brow, as this will cause chaotic regrowth. If a few hairs are missing, draw in each hair using a light feather touch stroke. Begin at bottom and draw upward following hair direction. 

To keep brow hairs swept up, deposit damp soap on eyebrow brush or spray hairspray on eyebrow brush and brush through eyebrows. If no eyebrow brush is to hand a toothbrush (sans toothpaste) is equally effective. The finishing touch: coat eyebrows with clear mascara which holds it all in place. 

What are your eyebrow tips?

Helping Look After Your Face Overnight!

(credit)

Winter really takes a toll on our skin. It cracks, flakes and chaps as we are met by cold and windy weather. I have always had an issue with dry skin in the area surrounding my lips, and I have been trying to find some natural ways to help cure this. I never seem to have time (or remember) to do anything for this in the morning, so overnight tricks are always what I try to look for. It’s so easy to apply something at night, and then wake up to results. Here is what we found! 

Lemon + Almond Oil 

(here and here)

This is one of my favourites because it helps get rid of something we all hate — dark under eye circles! Combine fresh lemon juice with a few drops of almond oil and mix together. Apply the mixture underneath your eyes before you go to bed to wake up feeling fresh without those annoying dark circles!

Tomato + Honey Paste

(here and here)

Cut up a slice of tomato and mix it with a little bit of honey. Once a thick paste forms, apply this on your face before you go to bed. (If you have white sheets, you may want to lay a towel down on your pillow to prevent any staining.)  Tomatoes contain high levels of vitamins and minerals that are great for the face. Wash the paste off in the morning when you wake, and you will have fresh, glowing skin throughout the day!

Oats + Honey Mask 

(here and here)



This mask is great for moisturising dry skin and very convenient since honey and oats are quite common in the kitchen. The two ingredients are safe for all skin types, and the oats will act to soothe rough skin. Mix together equal parts of honey and oats until a thick paste has formed. Apply evenly to the face while gently scrubbing in a circular motion. Wash off in the morning for smooth, moisturised skin!

Coconut Oil + Tea Tree Oil

(here and here)

When these two oils are combined, it produces a serum that will help reduce redness in rashes and acne. The antiseptic properties will help to treat and prevent blemishes that appear on the face. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil to a spoonful of coconut oil and combine until a clear serum has formed. Spread evenly on the face before bed and wash off in the morning!

enjoy!

Eyelash Extensions!

I’ve noticed a lot of you pretty ladies have been asking about my eyelash extensions. Hopefully this post will cover everything you need to know.

What lashes are they?

The lashes I have are called individual Glam Lashes.

How long do they last?

Glam lashes last 4-8 weeks or to keep up you can have infills every 3-4 weeks. This can all vary on how well you take care of them though. They shed naturally with your real lashes so if you take decent care of them they’ll last a decent amount of time!

Can you wear makeup with them?

I was advised not to wear any eye makeup by the beautician and personally I don’t see much point anyway. They’re supposed to give you the look of mascara 24/7, if you put mascara on them it can affect how long they last for and damage the lashes. If you are someone who likes to do a lot with your eye makeup they might not be for you. I sometimes put mascara on my bottom lashes but thats all I do with eye makeup when I’ve got the extensions! Any other makeup like foundation ect is perfectly fine, just be cautious when applying around your eyes as well as when you remove your foundation.

How long does it take?

It depends where you go and how quick the beautician is. Mine take just under an hour but the woman that does mine is amazing and fast!

Where do you go?

I go to Belle Beauty in Malvern and its done by a lovely lady called Nadia or ‘Nadia Beautylab’ on facebook.

What do you ask for?

Well you can have lashes at different lengths and thickness. Although glam lashes are attached to your natural lashes, so if you have really damaged lashes it can affect how full the outcome of your glam lashes will be. I ask for mine to be as thick as possible and the length to be relatively natural as if I were wearing mascara. I think the longer the lashes the more maintenance but get whatever you think looks best, its personal taste after all!

 PHOTOS

 Before:

 After

Don't forget you can find my post on lip fillers here

Let me know any posts you might like to see in the comments, or to my email pixieg@wonderlandclothing.com or the best way: Instagram! 

Have a fabulous weekend!

Lips Fillers: A Guide!

Right so after being very open about my fillers a lot of you lovely ladies have had a lot of questions because you’re considering it yourself. WELL I’ve looked through all the questions on IG and emails so I can try cover everything in one go!

 

Where did you get them done?

A friend of mine who had lip fillers there recommended it to me and I loved the way hers looked. I went to the Birmingham Hospital Group, which can also be classed as Bromsgrove. The Birmingham Hospital Group cosmetic surgery and weight loss hospital hosts the UK’s largest facilities in Europe and is the National Head Office for The Hospital Group. I did a lot of reading up about this place before I went because even though lip fillers are non-surgical it’s still important to know the reputation of a company before having any procedures. When I called to book a consultation they were extremely patient and friendly with me. They said the actual procedure only takes about 5-10 minutes usually, so if you book the consultation as an appointment and if you decided to go ahead with the fillers you can have it there and then. I was lucky that where I went had such a lovely physician, I’ve always been a wimp with pain (yes even with my tattoos!) so she had to be really patient with me for my first lot of fillers. She made me feel so comfortable under the circumstances and didn’t let me see the needle because she knew it would freak me out a little ...even though its not big at all.

Does it hurt?

Well like I said I’m a major wimp with pain and there is a needle being stuck in your lips. Saying that the first time I went I remember thinking it really hurt but I think that’s just because I worked myself up so much about it I made myself think it was worse than it was. Even though I thought the first time was painful it didn’t put me off going back for my top up. The second time I went I was a lot more relaxed and positive about it because it was the same welcoming physician and I was more familiar with my surroundings and what the outcome would be like. Honestly it does sting but for me it was bearable and because I was calmer it was over a lot quicker than the first time. They provide numbing options, I suggest you ask about those when you go to see what can be provided/recommended for you personally.

 

How many times do you need to get them done?

I was told that Juvederm lasts 9-12 months but its different for everyone and how much you have. When you first get them done they will usually swell up so you get used to seeing them really swelled for a couple of days, therefore when they go down to how they should be it doesn’t feel like you’ve had your lips done. I know a few people that have gone back a week or two later to get more because they didn’t think there was much of a change. For me I just have one syringe (1ml) with slightly more in the top lip than the bottom lip and go back every 6 months(ish) for a top up. I’ve been tempted to go back a week after having them done but I know I’d end up getting addicted and having loads. I know of someone who has three syringes worth. Its all just personal preference. I’d suggest for your first appointment to just have what the physician recommends then if you want more you can just go back. I don’t know how prices would vary if you wanted more, some places will give you extra for free if you aren’t happy with the results but thats something you’d have to look into yourself.

Here is just some information I was given when I asked for the company's advice and details on Juvederm:

Juvederm and how it works

(the substance that is used)

Juvederm is a smooth gel which is injected under the skin by your physician, using an ultra-fine needle. The gel fills lines whilst the hyaluronic acid within attracts and retains moisture. Juvederm with Lidocaine is the latest advancement in the Juvederm range of facial fillers, developed specifically for your lip and mouth area. It is not granular, which means that it can flow easily into the skin for a natural look and feel. The smooth consistency means the physician can tailor the juvederm treatment to the shape of your individual lip shape, adding fullness while maintaining the details that make your lips unique. 

Finding the right physician.

The first step towards any Juvederm treatments is to find a skilled physician you can trust. Many physicians are trained to inject Juvederm in expert ways but obviously some have more experience than others. Make sure you ask your physician about their experience and results with other patients.

  What to expect before treatment

Your physician will have an in-depth consultation with you you understand exactly what your needs are and what you would like to enhance. They will explain all the options to you to make sure that your juvederm treatment has the best results you can achieve.

What to do after treatment

Your physician will advise you on your aftercare. You may be advised to stop wearing makeup for up to twelve hours. You may also be advised to avoid sun, sauna and steam rooms for up to two weeks. Some people experience a little temporary tenderness, swelling or bruising around the injection sites. Speak to your physician if this occurs, or if there is anything else that concerns you; they will be able to give you expert advice.

I hope this helped answer all your questions! I tried to be as detailed as I could be on everything. Any other questions you have are best to find out yourself and asking the companies for advice. I’m happy to share my personal experience with fillers but I’m no expert on it, its always best to do some of your own research and seek out help from experts on any procedure you consider.

Before Procedure

  

 

One hour after procedure

 

24 hours after procedure

 

 

 Fully settled.