CHLOE MARY : beauty blogger

December 07, 2017

STRONG & BRIGHT WITH PRONAMEL*

I've always suffered from sensitive teeth since being a child but I've never really looked into any products aimed at reducing my sensitivities or the reasoning behind it if I'm honest. So when Pronamel recently got in touch seeing if I wanted to trial their new 'Strong and Bright' toothpaste which is aimed to strengthen the enamel on your teeth and protect against acid erosion, I couldn't say no.

A lot of things we eat and drink on a daily basis can cause our enamel to be weakened due to the acids they contain and weakened tooth enamel can not only cause sensitivities, but can also cause teeth to look dull and give them that unsightly 'yellow' hue. A study recently showed that almost one third of candidates aged 18-35 displayed signs of acid erosion.

With Pronamel Strong and Bright*, we can help protect our tooth enamel from further damage caused by acids contained in soft drinks, fruit juices and even fruit. I found a little goes a long way due to the paste 'frothing' in your mouth as you brush (this sounds odd to write but it's a good thing!) I took this on holiday with my recently to Fuerterventura and have to say, all the cold drinks and ice cream caused me no issues after using this both morning and night. Especially after all the sugary drinks and foods, my teeth felt smooth and clean after brushing due to the slight exfoliating feel the toothpaste has to it which helps to polish away stains.

I'm unable to yet comment 100% on it's brightening effects after using this for only one week but I am noticing a slight 'brighter' glow to my teeth that I did not before. The packaging is also a huge bonus as I normally don't get along with traditional toothpaste packaging. This is both sleek, stylish and functional allowing to to distribute the right amount of paste for brushing.

To find out more visit https://www.sensodyne.co.uk/products/pronamel-strong-Bright-enamel.html

Pronamel Strong & Bright Enamel is available to buy at Tesco, Boots and Superdrug, priced at £5.00

*DISCLAIMER - I am the author of all content featured/ any content published on www.lovefromlucky.com. Content on this blog does not reflect the views or opinions of any other person, company or website. I am sent products or services from PR companies or brands to feature on the website in return for my review purposes. I am not obligated to review any product I am sent in a positive way and all views shared are 100% my own. PR samples will be disclosed and marked with * and any products not listed in this way have been purchased by myself or gifted to me from friends and family.

November 05, 2017

SHAVING YOUR FACE?! | DERMAPLANING RED CARPET FACIAL FT. JOJO'S*

The title may make this sound crazy but technically, it's not shaving your face. I wanted to catch your attention and put some myth's about dermaplaning to rest once and for all.

AREN'T YOU JUST SHAVING YOUR FACE?!

No. Dermaplaning is a manual exfoliation technique where your skins surface debris (and peach fuzz) is removed with a custom Dermaplaning blade which is similar to that of a surgeon's scalpel. The hair that is removed from your face is different to the hair that grows on your head and body. The hair removed during Dermaplaning will grow back no faster or darker than it previously was, simply just grow as usually. For best results, treatment is recommended every 4-6 weeks.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?!

There are many benefits to having Dermaplaning. The obvious being the peach fuzz is removed from your face and dead skin you don't need. This will help your skin to better absorb products used such as serums and moisturisers which in turn will improve the look of your skin, your makeup will also look FLAWLESS. The treatment gives your skin a more radiant appearance and helps diminish the look of fine lines and wrinkles. It also preps the skin for any further treatments. As part of the red carpet facial, you will also be set up with the Neoelegance Light therapy mask. Depending on your skincare needs, you are paired up with a red or blue LED light. Red is for clients looking to benefit from anti ageing properties where as the Blue is targeted for clients with acne/ breakouts due to it's antibacterial properties.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?!

If you're looking for the full Red carpet facial which includes a treatment of Dermaplaning followed by the Neoelegance light therapy mask, the cost is £60. The Dermaplaning treatment alone is £35 but for best results, personally I'd recommend the full works.

DO I NEED TO DO ANYTHING ONCE I'VE HAD THE TREATMENT?!

You are given a list of do's and don'ts that you need to make sure you follow. It is recommended that you use a gentle cleanser twice a day (morning and night) to keep your skin glowing and follow up with a serum or moisturiser. I've found Lush's Enzymion in the morning followed by Decleor Facial Oil has been the PERFECT combination for me but of course anything targeted to your skin type will work ten times better after you've had the facial. It is also recommended you do not exfoliate or use any harsh brushes, avoid heat and sunbeds, steam rooms and sun exposure 3 days minimum after treatment. If you are going to be exposed to the sun, you need to make sure you're wearing at least an SPF of 30 and you avoid too much exposure as your skins absorption levels are elevated at this time. It is also advised you are careful with self tanning products as your absorption levels are elevated, it can develop quicker than usual.

IS IT WORTH IT?!

YES. My skin has never looked or felt this good. The treatment is painless and the mask (although a little heavy during treatment) really helped to clear my breakouts. I can't thank Jojo's enough for letting me try this new treatment and I am thrilled with the results.

WHERE CAN I GET THIS DONE?!

Make sure to contact Jojo's either on her facebook page https://www.facebook.com/pg/wwwsmartjo.co.uk/services/ or you can contact her alternatively via telephone on 07772 155850. Jojo's Nails and Beauty is located in Bristol Horfield (Allfoxton Road) and coming soon, will be offering the full Red Carpet Treatment in a salon in Clifton. Please contact her directly to book in.

*DISCLAIMER - I am the author of all content featured/ any content published on www.lovefromlucky.com. Content on this blog does not reflect the views or opinions of any other person, company or website. I am sent products or services from PR companies or brands to feature on the website in return for my review purposes. I am not obligated to review any product I am sent in a positive way and all views shared are 100% my own. PR samples will be disclosed and marked with * and any products not listed in this way have been purchased by myself or gifted to me from friends and family.

October 20, 2017

AUTUMN VIBES | FT.MUA BONITA*

June 24, 2017

ADDICTED TO ACRYLIC (NAILS)

For someone that's been a nail bitter for years to suddenly have the urge to grow my nails, it's no surprise I got a bit bored of my natural nails and wanted just a bit 'more'. No matter how much I looked after my natural nails with masses of products, gel kits and so on, my nails were just brittle and broke all the time. I have envied ladies who have acrylic nails for a long time now but never really knew what went into them, how they'd feel and all the wonderful colours and designs you can have. I always thought they were these ghastly, chunky long nails that only people who didn't have nails got but this could not be far from the truth. Whilst there may be some con's to acrylics such as the infills, lifting issues or losing a nail (SUCH a pain!) there are many pro's which I want to share with you.

Jo at Jojo's Nails and Beauty (and training academy) is the genius behind my current acrylic nails.* Based in Bristol from her home salon, Jo offers a huge variety of treatments, such as callus peels, microblading and most recently, Lash extensions. I've now had two sets of acrylics in different lengths and styles and I am totally ADDICTED. Acrylic nails are perfect for nail bitters or people with brittle nails as the polymer mix used creates a hard wearing, robust result which means you can have beautiful nails all the time. For someone like me who works in retail, they're a god send as I don't have to worry about being a bit rough and breaking a nail. I have had two incidents were my acrylics have come off (they were lifting as it was a few days before my infills) and luckily they just pinged off. I have yet (touch wood) to experience a horrendous break but since my previous issues, Jo recommended a slightly shorter size and all is good so far.

Acrylic nails (a shortened term for 'Methacrylate') are created by mixing a monomer liquid and polymer powder which is then applied to the nail and dries to create a thicker style nail. The application process begins by cleansing your natural nails, filing and shaping your existing nail, applying a priming liquid and then a nail extension tip which is attached to your natural nail. This is then filed to blend with your natural nail and shaped to your chosen preference. You are then prepped and ready to apply the polymer powder which hardens and is then shaped. Once these steps have been completed, you are ready for polish, shellac, gel and any finishing you may choose.

You will need infills every 2-4 weeks depending on how fast your natural nails grow to keep your nails looking fabulous (and not fake!) During this time, you can also choose a new colour or have your previous colour re applied. But the good news in, a set can last you up to 2 years! Getting regular infills and letting your technician know if the length isn't suitable means you can keep your nails looking fab and avoid any horrors.

Jojo's Nails and Beauty Training Academy Facebook Page

https://www.facebook.com/wwwsmartjo.co.uk/

Jojo's Nails and Beauty Facebook Group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/295851493901352/

*DISCLAIMER - I am the author of all content featured/ any content published on www.lovefromlucky.com. Content on this blog does not reflect the views or opinions of any other person, company or website. I am sent products or services from PR companies or brands to feature on the website in return for my review purposes. I am not obligated to review any product I am sent in a positive way and all views shared are 100% my own. PR samples will be disclosed and marked with * and any products not listed in this way have been purchased by myself or gifted to me from friends and family.

March 17, 2017

DECLEOR VITAMIN GLOW FACIAL WITH SAKS*

I'm really not the sort of person who frequently treats their skin to a facial, instead choosing to use products at home and not 100% knowing what benefits they're giving my skin. The past week has been quite stressful and I thought it was time to give my poor congested skin some real TLC and visit a professional. My therapist Bea at Saks, said that the Vitamin Glow Facial* by Decleor would be the perfect treat for my skin and would really bring back some much needed life to it.

Beginning with a relaxing back massage, I felt very much at ease and ready to fully embrace the relaxation that was on offer from the treatment. Combining sensational smelling products (they really do smell amazing) with the right techniques, my poor body and face felt as if it was being given the royal treatment. One of my favourite products used had to be the decongesting mud mask as this was the first mask I had ever tried that was applied hot. It was to epitome of luxury relaxation and I could really feel it drawing out the impurities in my skin, providing it with anti-oxidants and vitamins that helped to rejuvenate my skin and melt away the stresses of everyday life. It only took a quick glance in the mirror after my treatment to see that my skin had reaped the benefits that the facial was designed to offer. My skin was physically glowing and had been given a new lease of life. Paired with the fantastic service the salon offers and the friendly and relaxing atmosphere they have created, I would fully recommend visiting Saks and having the Vitamin Glow Facial* to anyone who is looking to put a bit of pep in their step.

Saks Bristol's Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/SaksBristolBeauty/

Saks Bristol's Twitter - https://twitter.com/Saksbristolbty

Saks Bristol Site - www.saks.co.uk - Bristol

*DISCLAIMER - I am the author of all content featured/ any content published on www.lovefromlucky.com. Content on this blog does not reflect the views or opinions of any other person, company or website. I am sent products or services from PR companies or brands to feature on the website in return for my review purposes. I am not obligated to review any product I am sent in a positive way and all views shared are 100% my own. PR samples will be disclosed and marked with * and any products not listed in this way have been purchased by myself or gifted to me from friends and family.

February 15, 2017

NATURAL ORAL CARE - GEORGANICS REVIEW*

As I get older, I am seeking more ways that I can switch to products that are more 'natural' or animal testing free. I don't know why, I just seem to be coming a little more self conscious about my foot print on the planet .. #adultlife

Georganics are a brand who do just that. Back in 2015, the brand started selling their products from a market stall in London, now you can find products through Amazon, Etsy and most wholefoods stores throughout the UK. Looking through their site, you'll see they offer oral care in different flavours which for someone like myself (I used blackcurrant toothpaste from the ages of 5 to around 10 because mint toothpastes made me gag!) was something that intrigued me. As an adult, I'm obviously a little more used to mint flavoured toothpastes now but if you asked me if I wanted to use a spearmint flavour or a red mandarin flavoured toothpaste, I know what I would choose.

With 8 flavours/ variations available (including spearmint and peppermint for you mint lovers out there) there's something for everyone. Blended with Red Mandarin Peel Essential Oil, these products are safe to use for children and during pregnancy. These products are also Vegan friendly and Edible if that's your sort of bag. Apply a pea-sized scoop of the Red Mandarian toothpaste* to your toothbrush (spatula is included) and brush as usual for 2-3 minutes. The instructions advise to leave longer for increased remineralization. The first time I used the toothpaste (please bare in mind this is the first time I've ever used a natural toothpaste) it did feel a little like I was brushing my teeth with a face mask. However once the initial texture disappears as you continue to brush, it feels a lot more normal in your mouth (ignore the innuendo tone to that sentence). This may be due to the fact the formula contains clay but it's something with prolonged use, you do get used to.

For a natural rinse, follow with the Oil Pulling Mouthwash*. This involves swishing the blended oils in your mouth for 10 minutes (20 minutes if you can) which will draw out toxins and also help naturally whiten your teeth too. This is something I had to task to my boyfriend and he was more than happy to give it a go. 10 minutes seemed more than enough for him but he did comment after how clean his mouth actually felt. I do have to say that I don't think the Red Mandarin flavour was as noticeable as I'd have preferred but it was not as harsh as usual commercial toothpaste.

Cute packaging aside, I'd say if you are someone who is after a more natural approach to oral care and want to avoid fluoride, SLS (sodium lauryl sulphate) and Triclosan, this is the perfect way to do it. Head to https://georganics.co.uk/ where you can purchase this travel friendly set for £11.90*

January 09, 2017

NOUVEAU LASHES WITH SAKS BEAUTY BRISTOL*

I've previously had bad experiences before with semi permanent lash extensions so when Saks Beauty contacted me about coming in for a complimentary treatment in their new store opening here on Bristol Park Street, my first thought was to be safe and just go for a facial. But upon perusing their treatment list, I couldn't help see a new range of lash extensions I had not seen before, called 'Express Lashes' by Nouveau. My inner lash diva jumped right out and I asked if I would be able to try them out and boy, I'm glad I did. Upon application, I could tell the Nouveau lashes were totally different to what I have previously experienced from Lash extensions in the past.

Heather, my technician made me feel very comfortable and relaxed during my treatment. Pre-treatment, we spoke about what kind of look I was after and my expectations of the lashes as to ensure I was getting the correct treatment. I advised Heather I was after a natural look but also wanted to look as if I had had my lashes done (difficult customer alert!) but she totally understood the look I was after and we agreed on a slightly longer length with more of a flare on the outer corners of my lashes - perfect! I also told Heather of my previous experiences and she assured me about how the application was going to go and aftercare instructions. The Nouveau site advises the lash application takes approximately 20-30 minutes but I was in the salon for approximately an hour - I can be a right chatterbox when I get going and me and Heather got along like a house on fire.

The adhesive is more gentle than standard lash adhesive, it is non irritating meaning your eyes will not water when having the application done and feels much more comfortable on the eyes once application is finished. Express lashes are perfect for that special occasion such as a big party or even a wedding and boast up to 10 days wear when treated correctly. The treatment costs from £30* (dependant on how many lashes you need). You can also purchase the Nouveau Sealant which is a product you apply twice daily to lengthen the life of your lashes. It protects the adhesive bonds and adds shine, gloss and depth of colour to the lashes whilst also being Vegan Friendly. It creates a membrane that protects the glue bonding on the lashes whilst contained ingredients feed and moisturise your natural lashes. When the lashes are ready to be removed, make sure to return to the salon to get them professionally removed. Saks Bristol actually offer a free removal service ensuring the lashes are professionally removed as not to damage your own lashes in the process.

Tips on getting the most out of your Express lashes and to keep them lasting as long as possible;

Avoid water coming into contact with the lashes for the first 48 hours after application
Do not use waterproof mascara (try to avoid mascara if you can really) but if used, use water-based only formulas and remove gently with an Oil Free make-up remover
Do not attempt to perm or use lash curlers on your newly applied lashes, this will only cause the lashes to tug and could pull off your the lashes and your own lashes prematurely
Do not rub your eyes when washing your face - always part lashes dry after cleansing them
Do not attempt to remove the lashes yourself - go back to the salon 2-3 weeks after application to get them professionally removed.

Donna (the salons owner), my technician Heather and the team at Saks Bristol are some of the loveliest ladies. They make me feel at ease time and time again and I have since returned to the salon as a paying customer. If you are looking to be pampered and preened, make sure to visit Saks Bristol. Also for a limited time - you can get half price treatments at Saks Bristol as a new customer, visit their page here for full details and download your voucher. (Offer T&C: Mention offer at time of booking and bring voucher to appointment. Valid at Saks Beauty Bristol on selected days with selected staff until Sunday 15th January 2017. Cannot be used with any other offer)

Saks Bristol's Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/SaksBristolBeauty/

Saks Bristol's Twitter - https://twitter.com/Saksbristolbty

For more advice on Nouveau lashes - visit their site here

Saks Bristol Site - www.saks.co.uk - Bristol

*DISCLAIMER - I am the author of all content featured/ any content published on www.lovefromlucky.com. Content on this blog does not reflect the views or opinions of any other person, company or website. I am sent products or services from PR companies or brands to feature on the website in return for my review purposes. I am not obligated to review any product I am sent in a positive way and all views shared are 100% my own. PR samples will be disclosed and marked with * and any products not listed in this way have been purchased by myself or gifted to me from friends and family.

December 01, 2016

SUPERDRUG COLOUR VIBRANCE IN FIRE RED 8.45 REVIEW

October 10, 2016

TO THE RESCUE WITH NOUGHTY HAIR CARE

September 13, 2016

ESPA ESSENTIAL CLEANSING MASK REVIEW

Finding out that you're a different skin type to what you had presumed you were for the past five years or so can explain a lot of things. Such as 'why is my skin breaking out so much' or 'why does my makeup not stay put' .. well when you're using the wrong type of products and makeup, that's why. My mum was lucky enough to win a spa break for 2 at the Whitlebury Hall and Hotel through a Take a Break competition and was kind enough to invite me along. Whilst we were there, we thought we would take advantage of the spa facilities and booked ourselves in for an express facial.

My therapist, Bella was chatting away to me and explained that I actually have Combination/ Oily skin with some enlarged pores. This was very strange to hear considering I'd thought I actually had Dry skin so obviously had been over saturating my skin with moisture it didn't really need! I've recently suffered from some heavy breakouts I had put down to being hormonal, but Bella reassured me and advised this was probably due to using the wrong products for my skin. Bella proceeded with my express facial giving my skin the TLC it had much needed and after, my skin felt FANTASTIC Thanks to using targeted products for my skin such as this ESPA Essential Clay Mask, my skin had a new lease of life.

Bella recommended this ESPA Essential Clay Mask to help improve the condition of my skin and draw out the impurities whilst also balancing the excess oils. So onward I trotted into the store to get the mask and was greeted by a hefty price tag of £36.00. I'm no stranger to spending money on luxury skincare products I believe are worth it but this seemed like quite a lot of cash to hand over for a 55ml tub. I however handed over my card and kept my mouth shut. All I can say now on reflection is I am VERY glad I did.

Yes this is a luxury price tag but you really are getting a luxury product. (Also just to mention the packaging?! How beautiful!) This deeply cleansing mask helps calm skin, ease congestion and aids in re-balancing your skin. It contains Mineral-rich Kaolin clay and Antiseptic Rose Geranium which help clear excess oils, impurities and congestion in the skin. It also contains Benzoin to help nourish, Rose Damascena and Marshallow help to soften and calm.

I am yet to see the longer term benefits of the product but after just two uses, my skin feels much cleaner and fresher and my breakouts have dramatically improved. This is not only suitable for Oily/Combination skin, but also can be used on all skin types including sensitive skin.

July 12, 2016

10 BADASS HAIRCUTS THAT WILL MAKE YOU WANT TO SHAVE YOUR HEAD

June 11, 2016

L'OREAL ELVIVE EXTRAORDINARY CLAY COLLECTON REVIEW

What do you do when you find out that all along, you've been using the wrong type of shampoo and conditioner and causing your hair more problems than help?! Change it up of course.

It's been a long time coming for me to finally discover my actual hair type but there is a reason behind this madness. For as long as I can remember, I have consistently dyed my hair. It's been a horrible I've had ever since my mum used to let me get highlights at about 10 or so to add some lighter blonde to my ever darkening blonde hair. Previous to this age my lovely blonde locks were bright, shiny and super light but sadly with age .. they just grew darker and darker. I got highlights for a few years until I decided at around 14 I dyed my hair red only then a few months later to get all my hair cut off and dyed jet black. This is where my love affair with hair dye began. So since around that age, I have always been known as the girl who dyes her hair to much. Never happy with the colour I had, I used to experiment with box dyes, bleach and professional colouring until I get to around 3 years ago and decided I wanted to be blonde again. I've flitted around with the shades of blonde and swapped it with a little temporary pastel colours but ultimately, I have remained a blonde. The only problem with dying your hair lighter blonde when your a natural 'dirty blonde' is the roots issue so when recently getting my blonde re-freshed, I've had roots painted in to help me grow them out and not make them look too 'ratchet'. Where I now have a subtle ombre going on, my actual roots are grown in now and my natural hair texture has come back. This is where my problems began as I realised I've been using shampoo and conditioners aimed at 'dry' hair when really .. I have oily/ greasy hair!

With the summer months approaching and humidity dawning upon us, my hair has been one hot mess. Dry, frizzy ends from the bleach but oily roots from my natural hair type. My 'dry' aimed products just weren't cutting it anymore and I went to the one woman who could help me with my dilemma - my mother. My mum has always suffered with greasier hair so I don't understand why I thought I wouldn't. Mums recently dyed her hair more now in the last few years so doesn't have to tackle the issue as much as I currently am but she recommended the new Elvive Clay shampoo as it's aimed towards Dry Ends and Oily Roots. Could this be the answer to my prayers? I ran straight to boots after her recommendations and picked up the Re-balancing shampoo, Conditioner and as the products were on offer, I also picked up the pre shampoo masque treatment.

The products are aimed towards removing the oil from our scalps that produces and builds up, causing our roots to become visibly greasy and weigh down our hair. Over-washing your hair to try and combat the problem can leave the hair feeling striped and can leave the fibres dry. It's a never ending vicious circle and finally, these products are here to save the day. By using 3 types of Refind Clays, L'Oreal have managed to create its first re-balancing range that helps to keep your scalp purified for 72 hours.

My favourite product from the range has to be the Pre-shampoo treatment masque. You apply the product just to your roots using your fingertips and massage into your scalp. The clay masque helps to deeply absorb all the excess oils and impurities and after 5 minutes, can be washed away ready to apply the shampoo. Then follow with the Re-Balancing shampoo and conditioner and you're ready to face the day. This range has been an absolute godsend to me and I was converted originally to the Dry Shampoo from the Clay range, now with these products in my arsenal I am ready to never see Oily roots again. I can only hope that Elvive continue to produce this range forever.

May 11, 2016

SUMMER SUNLESS TANNING WITH GLODEN*

If you'd have asked me a year ago would I ever have a spray tan, I probably would have laughed in your face. I've always been one to embrace my pale-ness and hadn't really been tanned properly for a number of years. I'd always be interested that you could get a tan without harming your skin or exposing it to the sun or tanning beds but just never really looked into it as I was happy with my lily white skin. However since going to Mexico in February and catching some rays, I have rather enjoyed being a tanned goddess, Now when I say 'tanned godess' it's not really what most of you would class as tanned. I quite like a natural style tan and healthy glow to my skin, even in Mexico I probably looked like I had just been to cornwall for two weeks with the UK sun being out. But yes, I digress. My tan has been fading super super quick and now it's almost as if I never went abroad and the pale skin has come back. Now it's getting a little more sunny, I wanted back that tanned look on my legs for the summer so I could get them out without feeling like I looked like a sun starved vampire. The folks over at Gloden got in touch as they've just opened a larger tanning salon in Filton Bristol and wanted me to pop along and celebrate the opening with a complimentary tanning session*. As I said, I didn't want to really expose my skin to sun beds so I opt'd for a spray tan but was nervous about getting half naked in front of a stranger. BUT this is where the good news comes in for us non nudists - They have fully automated tanning booths that do all the work for you!

The Versapro is a fully automated spray tanning booth but there are staff to talk you through each step before you start your session who kindly provide you with full instructions on how to get the best even tan from the machine. There are three shades to choose from, light/medium, dark and double dark. At my session there was actually four colour options to choose from so I am unsure if the Filton salon had different options but I explained I wanted a natural tan and to look like I had a healthy glow. The assistant advised the tanning application with a clear coat which was the easiest option as it could be washed off 4-6 hours after the application and as I wasn't too keen on sleeping in bed with the tan developing, opt'd for the second lightest colour with the clear coat. You can also choose to have your tan with an added bronzer which gives an immediate glow or the clear coat which develops over the next few hours but in my opinion, it did show an immediate difference on my pale skin.

Prior to your spray tan, it is advised you do all the shaving or waxing you need to before your tan application and also ex-foliate your skin. This will allow the tan to apply more evenly on the skin and ensure the results will last as long as possible. Also make sure to remove your make-up prior to your appointment as the application includes your face. It is also advised you don't wear an moisturiser or deodorant when your having your tan and to either wear loose clothing or bring loose clothing with you to wear after the application is complete.

The tanning booth is completely private and is inside an enclosed room where no one else will be with you. As the booth is fully automated, the assistant puts your tanning details into the machine and this then gives you 10 minutes to complete the full application. This however does not take 10 minutes so having extra time gives you a chance to relax and not rush the process. You are supplied with a hair net to put over your hair and also barrier cream to apply to your palms as you want to avoid getting the solution here. You then enter the booth completely naked (eek!) where you will find a green lit button in front of you that you press when your ready to start the process. Below your feet is a diagram to stand on top of which consists of 1-4 in numbers and aids with where you need to stand during the application. To start the process, the machine tells you to face forward with your toes on 1 and your heels on 4. The machine then measures you by height to gather where the tan is needed and then once this is done, asks you when your ready to proceed and press the button to start. The primer is applied first to the front and then the machine tells you to turn and put your toes on 4 and your heels on 1. Then it sprays the back and then once applied, the machine dries you. The assistant warned me that the first spray can be quite cold but surprisingly I found it to be more luke warm and actually quite pleasant.

Once the primer has been applied, you need to press the button again and this is where the tanning begins. The application this time round is a little different - you do the front of your body with toes on 1 and heels on 4 but then to do get your sides, you have to pull the dance move 'walk like an egyptian'. The machine doesn't tell you this but it is told to you from the assistant during the instructional process before the application. You do this both ways with toes on 3 and heels on 4, the other side toes on 2 heels on 4. Then you proceed with the back and then the machine dries you again. The last spray section is the top clear coat which seals in the tan. Again this is similar to the primer and the machine explains all the moves to you. I was really worried when the assistant spoke through instructions that I wouldn't remember what to do, but the only thing you really need to remember is the Egyptian move as this is the only thing the machine does not communicate to you. Otherwise as long as you listen to the machine, the process is super simple and also very very quick. My whole application was done in around 4 minutes so having 10 minutes gives even the most awkward person extra time to not get something wrong. Once the whole process is complete, you just need to wipe off any tan on your palms (this is quite hard as the tan isn't hugely visible right away) get dressed and the machine starts to clean itself. This freaked me out a bit as I wasn't expecting it!

The tan takes 4-6 hours to develop and then you can shower the tan off. I was going to leave it to develop for the full 6 hours but when I got to 4 hours, I had a quick peek and was worried I almost went orange. I've never had a spray tan and was a tad scared so off I trotted to the shower and had a quick wash. Some advice, do not rub too hard - a simple handwash with a shower gel will suffice and then pat dry with a towel and avoid rubbing or dragging the skin. When I woke up the next day I was concerned my white sheets would have some transfer but was surprised to find nothing. I went into the bathroom to inspect my new tan and wow, I was so glowing and tanned I loved it. I felt like I had woken up in Mexico again - the tan was so so natural and glowy and did not look fake AT ALL. The tan is advised to last around 5-7 days and I have to be honest, 7 days later it is still showing on my skin. It's not as bold as it was for the first few days but I would still leave the house with a skirt on and not be afraid of my vampire skin. So if your someone like myself who is scared to spray tan, I would honestly advise it so so much. It has made me realise I actually really love having a healthy glow and especially as I've been down lately, this made me feel good about myself and perked my mood right up. I'd like to thank Gloden for inviting me along for my first spray tan and I can say with sympathy to my boyfriend (who loves my pale skin) it will not be my last.