Sleep Tips

Awwww... Koalas are too cute!

Do your parents have to drag you out of bed in the morning? If this is the case, have you ever considered GOING TO BED EARLIER?!?! Here are some top tips on getting a decent night's sleep...

• Switch off electronics at least an hour before bed. As it gets dark, Melatonin is released as a subtle reminder that it's almost time for bed. However, with all the artificial light from TVs, laptops and mobiles, this chemical can't be released, therefore keeping you awake and affecting your sleeping patterns.
• Establish a night-time routine. For example, half an hour before bed, take a shower, clean your teeth and read a book. Soon, your brain will fathom that these are prompts that it's time for bed. 
• Don't leave homework till last minute. Instead, get it over and done with as soon as you come in from school, so that you're not rushing it just before bed. 
• Avoid caffeine after 7PM. It's proven that caffeine is the most addictive stimulant ever. It increases the production of adrenalin, influencing how much sleep we get. (Most teenagers need 8-10 hours a night.) Note: Caffeine is no substitute for sleep.

Hope this post comes in useful! Sweet dreams!

Messy Buns

I don't know about you, but at the moment, I'm loving messy buns! They're cute, fun, laid-back and can be achieved in minutes. Find out how to attain this funky look by following the quick step-by-step guide below:

You'll need:

• Two mini doughnuts (not the ones you eat!)
• Two hair bobbles
• Bobby pins
• A hairbrush
• Hairspray

Method:

1. First of all, brush out any knots and tangles, then gather your hair into two low ponies.
2. Now, working from the bottom of the pony, roll the doughnut up towards the bobble, tucking in any stray hairs as you go.
3. Repeat step 2 on the other side.
4. Finally, secure the buns with bobby pins and spritz with hairspray. I like Schwarzkopf's Power Cashmere Hairspray. 

I hope this easy-to-follow guide has helped you to recreate this fab hairstyle, fit for all occasions, especially school. 

Secondary School Life

I've been at secondary school for a while now (precisely 53 days in case you're wondering), so I decided I'd write a blog sharing my thoughts and feelings towards this new, exciting way of life.

The truth is that secondary school is a gigantic leap from primary school where everyone knew everyone and you had one teacher who taught all subjects! In Year Seven, expectations are higher, there's more homework and it's your responsibility to be on time for lessons. But despite all this, I'm really enjoying school. I've made a nice bunch of friends and of course, I have my pals from primary too.

I like most subjects, however my favorites consist of Maths, PE, French and History. Music is fun too as it doesn't entail as much thinking as other lessons do. At break and lunch, I usually hang out in the form room with my friends.

At the beginning of the year, my biggest worry was catching the bus. Now, it doesn't phase me in the slightest. In fact, it's the best bit of the day! In the morning, a Year Eleven named Freya usually saves me a place next to her, which means I don't have to worry about finding a space (my stop's the last one, so seats are normally scarce) and on the way home, I sit with my friend, Lani.

So, if you're moving up to secondary school next September, don't be nervous! Yes, the first couple of weeks can be daunting, but once you get in the swing of things, you'll be fine!

Establishing a Skincare Routine

Skincare can be confusing at times, especially during your teenage years, but with a little guidance it's simple. So, without further waffle, let's get stuck in...

• Wash your face using a clean flannel and warm water. A facial scrub is optional, although if you do choose to use one, I'd advice only to use it once or twice a week as scrubs can strip your skin of natural oils and goodness. 
• Cleansing rids your skin of dirt, impurities and old make-up, preventing your pores from getting blocked up. Apply with a cotton pad, then after a minute or two, wash it off with cool water to close the pores. 
• Toner balances out the acidity of skin. It isn't vital, however it can be helpful. I like Nivea's 2 in 1 Cleanser and Toner, which I bought in Superdrug for £1.78.
• Moisturise. Read my last post to find out why moisturising should by part of your daily routine by clicking here.

To achieve beautiful, clear skin, this routine should be carried out every morning and night. Hope this quick guide has answered your skincare questions!

The Importance of Moisturising

Moisturising daily is a key concept of achieving beautiful, radiant skin. It forms a barrier on the skin's surface, trapping moisture and preventing bacteria from clogging up your pores. Especially during the chillier months, it's an absolute necessity to moisturise or else your skin may become dry and cracked. Moisturisers are cheap and easy to purchase (you can buy them in all health and beauty stores such as Superdrug or Boots). I am currently using Superdrug's own Light Moisturiser for sensitive skin and find it works effectively. It's not too heavy and really does make my skin feel lovely and hydrated. Moisturising should be part of your daily skincare regime. Remember: It might feel like a chore now, but in the long run, you'll be thankful!

LUSH Granny Takes a Dip Bath Ballistic

Granny Takes a Dip is absolutely wonderful. Not only is it cheap (£3.25), it looks and smells amazing! The moment you pop it in the bath, it begins to slowly fizz away layer by layer and it is a real treat to watch as the colours swirl around in the tub. Eventually, the water turns a deep shade of violet. My only criticism is that after a couple of minutes, the intense fragrance just disperses. Don't get me wrong though, I'd buy this product again without a shadow of doubt!