Showing posts sorted by relevance for query teeth whitening. Sort by date Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query teeth whitening. Sort by date Show all posts

Initial Impressions: Nano Intensive Whitening Strips

Saturday, February 24, 2018
I've reviewed various at home teeth whitening products over the past few years but today's post is a initial impressions post featuring White Wash Nano Teeth Whitening Strips (and a few of samples). Let's just mention that everyones experiences with products like this will differ and I do have sensitive teeth (annoyingly) so your experience and results with teeth whitening products might not be the same as mine.

*Nano Intensive Whitening Strips (£24.99)
I'm always interested to try new teeth whitening products as I do drink quite a lot of coffee and my teeth aren't bad by any means but I would like them to be a little whiter and brighter - in comes the plethora of teeth whitening products. There are so many to choose between from basic teeth whitening toothpastes, at home strips, professional teeth whitening products and a few more dubious products.

Nano Teeth Whitening Strips have been designed and approved by UK dentists which makes me feel so much confident and less worried by using these strips compared to other brands. The strips are safe to use on the enamel of your teeth.
I was very kindly sent the two week whitening course kit which contains 28 strips and an instruction booklet. I also received minis of the whitening mouthwash (25ml), floss and the whitening toothpaste (14ml). This post is an initial impressions review as I've been using the products for about a week, including the strips, mouthwash and toothpaste so I will update this post in a week or so with any more results and thoughts.

The whitening toothpaste is quite gritty and abrasive as well as very thick so it's not the nicest to use, if I'm honest but it does leave the teeth smooth and squeaky clean before using the whitening strips. Before using the strips, the instructions state to brush your teeth and apply the strips but I'd definitely recommend drying your teeth with a towel as it really helps the strips stick otherwise they just won't stay on your teeth at all!
I'm always honest on here, there's no point in being anything but so I'll say that yes, the strips aren't the most comfortable to have in your mouth for an hour and yes, it might be a little fiddly but when in place and after an hour or less (the first time I used them I only kept them on for 20 minutes as I didn't know if I'd have a reaction or negative side effects) they aren't too bad. The strips are fairly thin and narrow, they aren't very thick with the gel so it doesn't get all over your mouth and they don't feel too uncomfortable, unlike a lot of others like used.

In comparison to the other teeth whitening strips I've tried over the past few years (I've tried about four different brands of strips), these are the most comfortable, they stay in place the best (only if you dry your teeth) and they are the easiest to apply. I did notice some positive results after a few days of using the strips as my teeth looked brighter and whiter which is fantastic; however, the whitening only happens if the gel on the strips is fully in contact with your teeth and even though I tried to push the strip over the teeth fully, some areas of my teeth didn't whiten as much as the others as those surfaces weren't in contact with the gel as much. Additionally, I did experience some sensitivity but I've experienced this with every teeth whitening product I've used, apart from toothpastes.

Overall, my first impressions are very positive as I've seen some results already and they are the most comfortable, easiest to apply and they stay put the most compared to other brands. However, the strips might be a little fiddly if you don't dry your teeth first (which is such a weird sentence to type), I did experience some sensitivity and the strips are difficult to fully push into all of the angles of the teeth so the gel gets everywhere which could lead to some areas being a touch whiter than others but so far I'd definitely recommend giving this kit a go especially as it's one of the more reasonably priced kits and it's currently on sale for £19.96 as I'm publishing this post.

Have you tried the White Wash Nano Teeth Whitening Strips or any other teeth whitening products? 

Getting Summer Ready ft. Ollie + Darsh

Sunday, May 31, 2015
get summer ready beach pinterest
Images from Pinterest
Summer is just around the corner which means that it is time to get summer ready and along with the necessary...summer wardrobe, there are many 'get summer ready' products and routines, from fitness and lifestyle changes to gradual tanning and for me, teeth whitening. This is a sponsored post. 

I drink at least one latte a day as well as green tea or herbal tea so I am always looking for new, safe teeth whitening products and techniques but none have worked out amazingly well. I have tried a few at home teeth whitening kits over the past two/three years, all of them at a mid range price point or lower; most have only produced very small changes and others have been slightly better but again I haven't achieved the gleaming white teeth that I want. 

I find that I tend to steer clear of pretty, bright summery lipstick shades as they just emphasise even a slight discolouration - especially gorgeous orange, red or yellow based pink shades which would be perfect with a bronze glow and tanned skin for summer. Discolouration also makes me feel quite self conscious, although I know it is a problem a lot of people have as there wouldn't be so many pins and products geared towards teeth whitening. Also I have sensitive teeth *I can't eat ice cream without some pain and discomfort* so I think at home kits such as Crest white strips* will not be suitable for me sadly. Has anyone tried teeth whitening toothpastes, I've tried so many and none of them work for me - if you have any recommendations, leave them in the comments section below! 

I have considered professional teeth whitening although the places I've looked at have been so expensive and again as I have sensitive teeth I've always been worried about the potential negative side effects and how long the whitening would last for - I cannot give up my lattes and green tea for pure white teeth! 

Ollie and Dash is a dentist clinic based in Liverpool, which is not too far from me, which offers many treatments from dental implants, veneers and cancer screening as well as teeth whitening and Invisalign. My sister is going through Invisalign now with another dentist and it is pretty expensive! 

Ollie and Dash also have an offer on teeth whitening in which you can get half price teeth whitening every Wednesday. They have three types of teeth whitening, including an at home teeth whitening option. Also, their 'smile cafe' is a quick service in which teeth whining treatments can be done in your lunch break as some treatments only take 15 minutes!


What are your opinions on teeth whitening? What are your 'get summer ready' routines and favourite products?

*Collaborative post
please always do your own research before considering any kind of treatment anywhere or lifestyle change 

Initial Impressions: Instant Whites

Thursday, January 14, 2016
Teeth whitening is something I've been a little obsessed with over the past year or two as I do drink coffee once a day and since doing so I have noticed that my teeth are definitely not as white as they were. I have tried four at home teeth whitening kits now and I am still on the hunt for one that doesn't produce any sensitivity at all but in the mean time this one is definitely the quickest, easiest and most comfortable kit I've tried.

I was kindly sent the *Instant Whites 7 Day Whitening System (£29.99) which is a safe, peroxide free teeth whitening system that claims to have zero sensitivity; also you are supposed to be able to see visible results in less than five minutes which is a very impressive and bold claim. Unlike the other teeth whitening products I've tried, it is not a strip or a mouth guard - just seven neat swabs with the gel inside.

Myself and my sister tried one each as an initial test and to be honest I am always a little sceptical about teeth whitening products as well as a little cautious so naturally I volunteered my sister to try it first - she is a very good guinea pig. To use, push the top part with the swab down into the neatly contains gel in the bottom half of the swab and some of the gel will appear on the swab which you then lightly rub into each tooth. This system has to be the easiest, quickest and fuss free at home teeth whitening product I've tried!

My sister saw results within about four minutes or so of applying the gel to each tooth and we were both definitely impressed with the results *although it wasn't a dramatic change*. I did notice a change on my teeth but it wasn't as noticeable.

Overall, my initial impressions of this teeth whitening system are surprising and very positive. I love how incredibly easy and quick the process is, unlike most other teeth whitening kits which are usually messy, time consuming and uncomfortable. I also love that as they are individual swabs, all of your teeth aren't affected at once, you can apply more to some areas and less to others which is great for me as some of my teeth are naturally whiter than others. We were both happy with the initial positive results and even though I did experience a small amount of sensitivity (my sister didn't at all), I'm looking forward to using them fully and to see the results. I will have a comparison post between the at home teeth whitening kits I've tried on my blog next month so stay tuned! Overall rating: ★★★★☆, 4/5 although my sister would definitely rate the kit 5/5.

Have you tried this kit or any at home teeth whitening kits? Have you had your teeth whitened professionally? 

*The Most Popular Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

Tuesday, September 10, 2019
Image from Pinterest
I think we all have areas of our appearance that we don't feel as confident about, which is completely normal, and one of mine is my teeth. I think it's probably because of my childhood fear of the dentist which still hasn't left me twenty years later, unfortunately. However, there are aspects of my teeth that I'd like to change including the shade of my teeth as well as a couple of fillings. Today's post is going to be exploring some of the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures, a couple of which I'd like to look into for myself in the future.

Teeth Whitening 
The most common cosmetic procedure is probably teeth whitening and it is something I've tried at home, with mixed results. I've tried numerous teeth whitening toothpaste variations and whitening strips but I would love to try a professional treatment at some point in the near future. Professional teeth whitening is typically more of an intensive and effective option when compared to at home teeth whitening products - the latter might not be as safe or effective in comparison. It is worth noting that teeth whitening in most forms, cannot whiten crowns or other dental implants, only the natural tooth enamel; so unfortunately it might be be an option for some.

I have wanted to try professional teeth whitening treatments for a while and I almost did a few years ago at a clinic near me but it's now something I will probably undergo next year. As far as I am aware, only qualified dental practitioners can carry out teeth whitening so as with any cosmetic procedure, you should always do your research beforehand to avoid potential complications and to find the best clinic for you.

Dental Implants 
Another common cosmetic dentistry procedure includes dental implants which are used to bridge a gap or take the place of a missing tooth. Cosmetic dentistry doesn't just mean a brighter, whiter smile, it can also include fixing problems, reducing insecurities and helping stabilise the teeth to create a more normal smile. Additionally, dental implants might be necessary if eating is becoming difficult due to missing teeth. Implants such as crowns can involve a rather uncomfortable process, perhaps involving numerous visits to the dentist, but at The James Clinic, they offer CEREC dental treatments which involve a camera to capture your individual dentition instead of using very uncomfortable putty making the process much easier and stressful overall.

Invisible Braces 
Lastly, braces, in particular invisible braces which have become much more popular within the past few years. My sister has personally gone through the process of invisible braces over the past three or so years and it has made such a dramatic difference to her teeth in terms of the alignment and how straight her teeth are. The process is not quick, it requires patience and it can be very uncomfortable at times but the results are amazing and it's something to look into if it's an aspect of your appearance that can cause insecurities.

The James Clinic offers various options for braces including 'Damon Braces' as well as Lingual Orthodontic Braces, the latter is a completely 'invisible' brace as it is situated behind the teeth so no one would know that you're wearing braces. They are completely customisable to your dentition and they are suitable for both adults and children.

Another option offered at the clinic is their 'wedding smiles' service which is something I haven't heard of but it can be combined with a couple of the treatments I've already mentioned including braces and teeth whitening. The service includes a consultation and whichever treatments you choose in time for your big day.

The James Clinic is based in three locations around the Republic of Ireland so if you are based around one of their clinics, it might be an option for you to consider if you're looking for cosmetic density. You can contact the clinic to make an appointment via the contact number on their site or check out their comprehensive website for more information about the numerous services that are available, customer reviews, fee guides and more.

Have you gone through any of the dentistry procedures I've mentioned? Or would you consider any in the future? 

*Sponsored

Janina Teeth Whitening

Thursday, December 14, 2017
I am always looking for new products that can help whiten my teeth, especially at this time of the year when there are the most parties, get togethers and catch ups with friends in one month. I've tried so many at home teeth whitening kits and products (let me know if you would be interested in a round up post) with varying results. I was kindly sent a couple of teeth whitening products from Janina that I've been using consistency for the past couple of weeks or so.

*Janina Ultra White Advanced Charcoal Toothpaste (£11.50)
There are so many whitening toothpastes out there and I've tried quite a few but this is one of the very few that seems to have a positive whitening effect. The toothpaste contains activated charcoal so it does have a grey colour to it. It is designed to whiten teeth, remove stains, and purify breath. I've been using it consistently as my toothpaste for a while and I do notice an overall lightning and whitening of my teeth, although it isn't an extreme difference. One thing I do notice is that my teeth seems a teeny bit more sensitive after using this toothpaste and it does feel a little strange using a grey toothpaste as it makes me feel like my teeth aren't being cleaned fully, even though they are! I'd still recommend giving it a go, especially as it's currently on sale at Boots and Superdrug as I'm writing this (14/12/2017).
*Janina Ultra White Charcoal & Clay Teeth Whitening Powder (£13)
Th final product is a little more unusual and it's a product I've never tried before - it is a teeth whitening powder. You just mix it with a little water and is designed to gently polish, whitening and remove stains. It's natural and fluoride free and suitable for everyday use although I've been using it 3 to 4 times per week.

It is a little odd to use at first but when used along side the toothpaste I think both products have definitely been helping make my teeth whiter. One problem I have with teeth whitening products that come with stick on treatments or trays is that only the teeth that are fully in contact with the product will become whiter but with these two products, you get an overall whiter smile. For me personally it isn't a miracle product and it won't instantly work overnight, you have to use it consistency but I think they have definitely been helping in time for the festive season! Janina products are currently on offer at Boots and Superdrug at 1/3 off until the 29th December.

*Update: I've been using it for a week or so more since writing this post and I'm seeing even more of the whitening effect which is amazing* 

Have you tried either of these products or anything from Janina? Do you use teeth whitening products? If so, do you have any recommendations? 

Initial Impressions: Mr Blanc Teeth Whitening Strips

Wednesday, January 06, 2016
Teeth whitening is something I've always been interested in since I started drinking coffee about four years ago as it does stain my teeth so they become slightly yellow which I don't think most people on a day to day basis would really noticed but it's something that I noticed often and it does bother me so when I received the *Mr Blanc Teeth Whitening Strips (£24.99) from Boots late last year I was so excited to give them a go!

As much as I want to try new and exciting teeth whitening products I am a little cautious about it as I don't want to have any negative side effects and I have slightly sensitive teeth anyway and I don't want to make it worse. The Mr Blanc strips do NOT contain hydrogen peroxide (bleach) which most teeth whitening products do which is fantastic as it can be harmful and cause sensitivity. It contains ingredients that are enamel friendly, safe to use and they have been tested and approved by EU and UK cosmetic laws. I think the price is fantastic, I thought they would be much more expensive.

The strips come in individual packets so you can use them as and when you want to and they would be great for traveling. The strips come as a bottom strip and top strip and you peel them off the plastic and place onto dry teeth. It looks and feels strange as they have gel on them so it looks like jelly sticky tape to me.

For my first use, I left them on for about 15 minutes which is half the time that is recommended as I hadn't tried them before and I'm glad I did as I experienced some sensitivity which lasted for a day or so but it wasn't that bad. Also I noticed a couple of whiter areas on my teeth which I can occasionally get anyway, even when I'm not using any teeth whitening products and after a quick google search I didn't have any answers as to what it was but on the Mr Blanc website it says that it is normal and temporary. After a day or so the white marks on my two front teeth had faded so much.

Even just using the strips once and for half the time I should have, I noticed whiter teeth! My two front teeth were about a shade lighter and my other teeth were also lighter but not as much. In terms of the whitening effects, I'm incredibly impressed. However the sensitivity and white marks that appeared on a couple of my teeth does put me off using them daily but I will continue to use them and I'll report back. Also the gel that is left behind is so gross, I washed it off in record time!

Have you tried the Mr Blanc teeth whitening strips? Do you use any teeth whitening products, if so do they work? 

Minty Coco Teeth Whitening

Wednesday, March 02, 2016
Minty Coco Teeth Whitening
If you didn't know, coconut oil *the miracle ingredient* in the beauty and health world is also a well known teeth whitener which first started to be used in India, as far as I know. I have tried using plain cheap virgin, organic coconut oil to whiten my teeth last year and I found that it did work well and it helped reduce my headaches, although that may be a placebo effect!

The only problem I had with the plain coconut oil is the taste, it has a bitter and relatively unpleasant taste which you can get used to but it takes a while; so I was exited to try the *Minty Coco Minty Fresh Coconut Oil Teeth Whitening (£19.99, two week supply) which is a flavoured coconut oil teeth whitening system. Oil pulling is the method in which the coconut oil helps whiten the teeth, along with many other substantiated and unsubstantiated claims.

The Minty Coco box comes with a two week supply of individually packaged minty flavoured coconut oil, which is a much more convenient method of teeth whitening than gloopy peroxide gels and mouth trays. The sachets are small and well sealed so you could take them travelling or on the go, if you wanted. The sachets only contain virgin cold pressed coconut oil (10ml) and natural peppermint flavouring.

To use, you just open the sachet and swill *I hate that word* the contents around your mouth for between 5 to 15 minutes then spilt out after the time. It's a much more handy and quick way of oil pulling compared to using a tub of coconut oil and it tastes better. However as with any coconut oil, it is going to have a mushy and odd texture which melts in the mouth and can be a little unpleasant but you do get used to it. The experience of using this minty coconut oil is FAR nicer and tolerable than plain, unflavoured coconut oil so just on that basis I would prefer it and recommend it over plain coconut oil - even though it is more expensive. Don't swallow the coconut oil, it won't be harmful, I don't think but it won't be nice either! Also after rinsing, you have really fresh breath and it doesn't obviously contain peroxide which can be damaging. Annoying I don't have before and after photos as I forgot to take the before photos, doh.

As with the plain coconut oil I have used in the past, I do notice positive effects while using it. My teeth do appear to become a little whiter with time and continued use of the coconut oil and oil pulling method - you have to use it constantly though. The whitening effect isn't noticeable from the first or even second use, for me anyway but there is a definite change. I think this would be a great product to try, if you want a natural teeth whitening system - they also have vanilla and lemon flavours and I'd love to try the lemon one. I am going to continue using it and I will have a comparison post between all of the at home teeth whitening products I have tried *it will be a very long post* and it will be live later this month. Overall rating: ★★★★☆, 4/5.

Have you tried oil pulling? Have you tried the Minty Coco teeth whitening? 

iWhite 2 Teeth Whitening Kit

Thursday, August 27, 2015
iWhite 2 Teeth Whitening Kit
One of my main beauty concerns is my teeth as they definitely aren't the whitest and it does put me off wearing lipsticks, particularly more orange or yellow based shades, as it draws attention to my teeth and not in the most flattering way. I have been loving oil pulling over the past few months and it does work for me to an extent however I do want to see more immediate results that leave my teeth much whiter. Check out my oil pulling post on Femme Intemporelle (London Beauty Queen's new website).

I've been sent the *iWhite2 Instant Teeth Whitening Kit (£34.95) which I have seen on social media recently and I think I might have even tried the original version years ago. The kit comes with ten pre-filled trays so you get five full use out of each kit. You can use them consecutively or as and when you need them. The kit is 100% safe and effective, it contains an active stain remover and it contains MOHA complex which apparently restores your enamel which I am a little dubious about.

To use, you just gently brush your teeth and make sure your hands  are clean and dry. Remove the trays from the packaging (you can just use a one tray for the top or bottom teeth, or you can use both at the same time as I do) and place on your teeth immediately. The wait is 20 minutes although the first time I used it, I only waited for 15 minutes. I thought the wait would feel like forever but I had the trays on my top and bottom teeth for 15 minutes while replying to emails and it seemed like no time at all. After the time is up,  I removed the trays and rinsed off the excess gel. 

I didn't experience any pain or massive discomfort while wearing them or afterwards, it was slightly uncomfortable while wearing the trays solely because I'm not used to wearing a mouth guard. The only negative is that talking isn't really possible while it is on as you just end up drooling all over *not an attractive look at all*, you obviously can't drink during that time and if you're not used to wearing mouth guards like me, then it might feel a little odd especially the first couple of times. 

After the first use, I did notice some whitening, especially my front teeth and less so towards the sides where there is far less whitening gel in the sides of the tray. The only issue I have with this product is that the gel isn't distributed evenly throughout the trays so some teeth are in contact with very little gel and others have too much. However, the second time I used them (one day after the first use), I saw even better results. I have only used two so far as I don't want to use them all up at once - I will be using them as and when I need them but I can say that I definitely have whiter teeth since using this kit. 

Overall, I definitely noticed positive effects while using this kit and it is quick, easy and relatively mess free to use! The convenience of the kit is what makes it easier than other teeth whitening methods/products I've used and even though I have slightly sensitive teeth it doesn't make it worse. I noticed results from the first use but I think it takes at least two to get a more effective result from this kit. Overall rating: ★★★★☆, 4/5. 

Have you tried the iWhite teeth whitening kits? Do you recommend any teeth whitening methods/products?

Self Care Saturday: Natural Teeth Whitening

Saturday, February 10, 2018
Today's post is another 'self care Saturday' post which has quickly become a series now so I think I'll continue and today's post is all about natural teeth whitening. It's a more frivolous and potentially vain aspect of beauty and self care but I personally feel better with a brighter, whiter smile especially when I have events to go to which I do this year, much more than last year. 

I haven't had my teeth professionally whitened but I have tried a few whitening toothpastes, oil pulling and various at home teeth whitening kits (I've tried about ten so far). Most of the kits and products I've tried haven't been natural at all but that's one of the things that makes the Carbon Coco kit unique!

*Carbon Coco Ultimate Carbon Kit ($59.90 - SALE)
Carbon Coco is an Australian based brand that provides all natural alternatives to traditional teeth whitening products and oral care. I was very kindly sent the ultimate carbon kit which contains the activated charcoal toothpaste, the tooth polish and a toothbrush with bamboo bristles. The delivery did take a little longer than normal but that's expected as it came from Australia. 
I have tried a charcoal based toothpaste before and had amazing results (which were very gradual) and it was black in colour - this one is as well. Using a black toothpaste does take a while to get used to but it is just like a 'normal' toothpaste. The Carbon Coco Activated Charcoal Toothpaste lathers and works just like any other toothpaste, apart from the colour and thankfully it isn't mouth burningly minty as some whitening toothpastes can be. I've been using it on and off for almost two week along with the bamboo bristled toothbrush and I have noticed a few differences. 

The first difference is the shade of my teeth, they are whiter after using this toothpaste but it isn't a dramatic difference and I think that more results will come with time as I experienced the same thing with a different charcoal based toothpaste last year. I always use an electric toothbrush so I didn't really like the one included in the kit. 

When it comes to the tooth powder, I think it does help to some extent and it is very easy to use but it looks a little gruesome (it would be great for halloween!) and I find that I did experience a little sensitivity since using these products; however it is only very minor and I experience sensitivity with pretty much every teeth whitening product I've tried!

Overall, there are so many positives, I love the packaging, it contains all natural ingredients (that's one of my main positives along with the results so far), the products for me are effective and quick/easy to use but I did experience a little sensitivity and the results are gradual so you have to stick to using the products consistently - the results won't appear overnight but that applies to any product like this. I would definitely recommend these products if you're looking for an all natural teeth whitening kit. 

Have you tried anything from Carbon Coco? Have you tried any teeth whitening products? 

*Popular Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments

Friday, February 21, 2020
Image from Pinterest
*This is a sponsored post
One of my smaller goals for 2020 was to register at my local dentist as it's something I've been putting off for years and thankfully earlier this month I did it! I'm so glad that I did as dental hygiene and health are incredibly important but I think that it is something many of us neglect, either because of a lack of time or anxiety, the latter is something I definitely struggled with. As well as registering at my dentist, there are a couple of cosmetic dentistry procedures I'd like to potentially look into for 2020 as well such as teeth whitening.

Braces 
I think that braces, of all kinds, are the most common form of cosmetic dentistry. Thankfully I've never had to wear braces but a few of my friends growing up and my sister have had to wear braces which doesn't look like the most comfortable process but there are new options available such as invisible braces. The James Clinic is an orthodontic clinic with various locations throughout Ireland that offer a range of treatments such as implants, teeth whitening, root canal treatments, dental hygiene services and much more.

They offer a couple of adult orthodontic options including Damon braces and Lingual braces, the latter is an invisible brace. Until my sister started using an invisible brace a couple of years ago, I had no idea that they were an option as growing up in the 90's, anyone who had to wear a brace only had the option of metal braces with colourful elastics but now there are much more discreet options available. Invisible braces seem like a fantastic option for those who need or want straighter teeth with an effective but discreet solution.

Implants & Teeth Whitening
Implants are artificial teeth that replace missing teeth and they are usually composed of titanium; dental implants can be used for a variety of reasons and they provide the base for crowns, dentures or bridges. Again, dental implants aren't something I currently need but teeth whitening is an option I'm considering. I've tried a few at home kits and a couple of them seem to have worked fairly well, although I'm always a little terrified if something goes wrong!

I would love to have my teeth professionally whitened as while I don't smoke and I look after my teeth, I do drink coffee everyday and my teeth aren't as white as they could be. The treatment offered at The James Clinic involves custom trays that are filled with the teeth whitening bleach which can be used in the comfort of your own home - it sounds like an ideal treatment to try as it is probably a much safer option compared to the at home kits you can buy.

Dental Hygiene & Cleaning 
Lastly, an option that combines teeth health and cosmetic dentistry in a way is basic dental maintenance and cleaning. As I've mentioned, I recently registered at my local dentist (which was nothing like my previous dental practice which was more reminiscent of a horror movie set) and the dentist cleaned my teeth which was a bizarre experience but it is something that is very important and shouldn't be ignored.

An interesting treatment, in terms of hygiene services offered at The James Clinic, is 'air polishing' which is a new polishing treatment that uses air, water and a specifically made powder to remove staining from tea, coffee and red wine which sounds fantastic and it is something that I wish my local dentist could offer!

Have you had any of these cosmetic dental treatments or anything similar? 

please always do your own research before considering any kind of treatment anywhere or lifestyle change 
*Dental Treatments with Kiln Lane Dental

*Dental Treatments with Kiln Lane Dental

Friday, March 29, 2019
Image from Kiln Lane Dental 
One of the most vivid and terrifying memories from my childhood has to be the terror of visiting the dentist! From that specific smell of a dental practice, the plethora of tools and the inevitable fillings, it wasn't a pleasant place; however thankfully the old archaic dental practice I used to be forced into is no more and more modern and less terrifying clinics are the norm for most. I don't personally have many dental issues but there are a couple of treatments and issued I'd like to address.

Teeth Whitening 
Teeth whitening at home is something I've tried on and off for years with only a few positive results so I've been considering a professional teeth whitening treatment. Kiln Lane Dental offers a couple of teeth whitening options including 'zoom' whitening and home whitening. Zoom whitening involves multiple treatments performed by a dentist with additional treatments you can do at home. Home whitening involves a kit provided by the dentist for you to use in the comfort of your own home. I'd personally love the 'zoom whitening' option and the results look very impressive.

Invisalign 
Another treatment they offer is Invisalign which thankfully is a treatment I don't personally need but it's a treatment my sister has gone through fully and it seems to be a very effective treatment for realigning the teeth through a very gradual process using clear aligners which are far less visible than traditional braces. From second hand experience watching the progress, it would be a great option to consider if you do need braces.

Dental Hygiene 
Lastly, basic dental hygiene including professionally cleaning your teeth (which is something that I think I could definitely benefit from), it's something I've wanted for a while but it is still difficult to put aside the childhood fear of the dentist and actually book an appointment. They offer a variety of other treatments at Kiln Lane Dental such as veneers, implants, root canal treatment, bridges and crowns, dentures and more, including facial aesthetic treatments too.

Have you experienced any of the above mentioned dental treatments? 

*Sponsored post 
please always do your own research before considering any kind of treatment anywhere or lifestyle change 

New In Beauty + Current Favourites

Tuesday, October 31, 2017
I've been lucky enough to try quite a few fantastic beauty products recently that are perfect for the autumn and winter months - thanks to Organii, The Body Shop, Joan Collins Beauty, Macadamia Oil, SmileLab and Biolage. Today's post is mix of product recommendations for autumn and mini products reviews as well as my initial impressions.

*Organii Liquid Soap - Lavender (£4.45 300ml)
If you've been following my blog for any length of time then you'll know that I love anything lavender scented so this hand wash is perfect. It contains organic olive oil and it's suitable for vegans! I love the packaging and the scent is amazing, it's such a calming and relaxing scent. I have eczema on my hands so they are perpetually dry and hand washes can make it so much worse but this one doesn't - it leaves the skin cleansed but not stripped or dry. I'd definitely recommend it!

*Organii Shower Gel - Argan (£5.95, 300ml)
Again, I love the packaging as it's colourful but minimal and practical. I also love the scent, I chose Argan but it comes in aloe vera and bamboo, liquorice, shea butter and strawberry - all of the scents sound gorgeous, well, apart from the liquorice one which is a little unusual! Neither products lather up but they work well and smell lovely. 100% of the ingredients within the liquid soap are natural and 99.5% of the shower gel are derived from natural origins.
*SmileLab Advanced Teeth Whitening Strips (£38)
I've tried so many at home teeth whitening products (I might publish a round up post next month?) and some of them have actually worked but others have been a complete waste of time. However, I always want to try more as professional teeth whitening sessions can be ridiculously expensive! This kit is enamel safe, peroxide free (yay!), vegan friendly, cruelty free, SLS free and it's very easy to use.

It comes with fourteen strips which have a sections for your top teeth and for the bottom too. It comes nicely presented, the instructions are easy to follow and each strip is individually wrapped. It also comes with a travel case which could be useful to some. As I've tried products like this before, I think there's a step missing from the instructions as if you dry your teeth (odd I know) then apply the strips, they will stick better. Once the strips are on, you wait for 30 minutes although as I have sensitive teeth I've been waiting half that time.

I've been using it on and off for a week or so, I haven't had time to use it more sadly but I have noticed some positive effects. Let's get the one negative out of the way first and that is the sensitivity it causes although I have found that with every teeth whitening product I've used and it is minimal so it's nothing to worry about. Now onto the positives, the product is very easy to use, it's convenient and it definitely lightens the colour of my teeth from a slightly yellow to a brighter shade, even from the first use I noticed a difference. Obviously you do need to keep it up to get a better result and it won't stay brighter without using the product again in the future. So far so good and I'd definitely recommend it, if you are looking for a safe, easy and vegan friendly teeth whitening option.

*The Body Shop Vanilla Pumpkin Body Butter (£15, 200ml)
Every year The Body Shop creates a fantastic range of Christmas product and this year is no different. Following on from the ever popular pumpkin trend at this time of the year, The Body Shop have joined the bandwagon. The Body Shop body butters are some of my favourite products as I've been using them for about ten years now.

The vanilla pumpkin scent is just gorgeous, it is creamy and sweet, vanilla heavy and rich which is ideal for the colder months and upcoming festive season. As with all of their body butters, it's incredibly nourishing, moisturising and soothing so it is a autumn essential for me. It would be perfect to include within a self care Christmas hamper!
*Macadamia Oil Natural Oil Treatment (£29.99, 125ml)
If there's one hair product that actually makes a difference to the look and feel of my hair overnight, it's hair oils. I mainly use them on damp hair so I wake up with smoother, less frizzy and more manageable hair in the morning or I will use a tonne of hair oil on my dry hair an hour or so before I wash my hair as a treatment.

I've tried quite a few and they can be very hit and miss for me, I've tried a few that were awful but this one is one of the best! I like the packaging, it contains a bonus of UV protection and unlike some hair oils, I feel as though it absorbs to an extent into my hair rather than just making it greasy. With my newly bleached and coloured tips, it's perfect as it enhances the bright blue in my hair and it leaves my hair smoother, softer and less frizzy! It is a little pricy but it's well worth a try, I now want to try more from Macadamia Oil.
*Joan Collins Beauty I Am Woman Indulgent Bath Salts (£18, 300g)
Autumn and Winter are basically bath season so I have been trying out some more bath products from Bomb Cosmetics and Joan Collins. These bath salts come in a heavy, glass tub so it would make a lovely pampering gift this year. It contains rice bran, grapeseed and rosehip seed oils. It smells heavenly to me, it's musky but sweet - it's pretty much an expensive evening fragrance in bath salt form. The bath salts are unlike others I've tried as they are so fine, rather than chunky salts so they dissolve quicker and the scent is lovely in the water. It makes any bath feel more luxurious and it would be a great Christmas self care hamper addition.
*Biolage R.A.W Replish Oil Mist (£22.99, 125ml)
Lastly, one of my favourite products I've received recently and it's another hair oil, I have been trying to look after my hair more recently as the cold definitely has an affect on it and I've bleached the ends again so it needs more attention. It contains olive, sunflower and borage oil - 100% of the ingredients are natural, the packaging is made of 100% recycled plastic and there are no artificial colorants or silicones.

The oil, unlike every other I've tried, comes in a spray bottle which is the main reason I like this product so much and why I've been using it so often as the spray bottle makes it so quick and easy to use. It leaves my hair, especially the bleached and coloured ends, softer, smoother and it helps to detangle as well. I'd recommend both hair oils in this post, so take your pick!

Have you tried any of these products? What are your current beauty favourites? 

*Common Cosmetics Procedures + Future Plans

Thursday, October 10, 2019
Image from Pinterest
The terms 'cosmetic surgery', 'cosmetic procedures' and 'cosmetic dentistry' are filled with images of botched plastic surgery, dramatic appearance altering before/after photographs and the use of cosmetic procedures among celebrities. While there are gruesome and shocking aspects of cosmetic surgery and appearance altering procedures, I think there are so many that are more common now from botox, laser hair removal, fillers and facelifts to cosmetic dentistry, implants, peels, hair restoration and more.

I personally don't have a problems with anyone having these procedures if they can afford them and if it's something that they fully want to change. I haven't had any 'cosmetic surgery', although I believe that in various areas of the world laser eye surgery would be considered an elective and cosmetic procedure. I don't rule out any form of cosmetic dentistry, procedure or surgery in the future and I have a list of procedures that I'd potentially want in the future.

Teeth Whitening & Cosmetic Dentistry  
One of the most common forms of cosmetic procedures could be cosmetic dentistry which includes procedures such as the fitting of veneers and crowns, implants, orthodontic treatments and teeth whitening. I've tried various at home teeth whitening options with varying levels of success but I would love to have professional teeth whitening sometime in the future. For more information on cheap cosmetic dentistry check out The James Clinic.

Botox
Another very common procedure is botox. While the idea of botox (a neurotoxic protein) being injected into my skin does give me the shivers, I think it is procedure I would fully consider in the next 15 to 20 years time, especially for around my eyes. Celebrities from Cindy Crawford, Pamela Anderson and Courtney Cox to Linda Evangelista, Kim Kardashian and potentially (but unconfirmed), Pippa Middleton have had botox. The fear of face freezing is something that puts me off botox but I think with the right clinic and experienced medical professionals (it has to be performed by a licensed medical professional such as a doctor, nurse, dentist etc in the UK) it could be a safe treatment.

Laser Hair Removal & IPL
Last but not least is, along with teeth whitening, the procedure I've been thinking about for the longest time. Laser hair removal is another procedure I've tried at home and I have received mix results although I do need to try the IPL device I have again. The price and potentially the embarrassment (although there is nothing to be embarrassed about) is probably why I haven't enquired about it yet but I hope that it's something I will look into fully next year.

Have you had any cosmetic surgery or cosmetic dentistry? If not, is it something you'd consider in the future? 

*Sponsored
please always do your own research before considering any kind of treatment anywhere 

May + June Beauty Favourites 2018

Friday, June 22, 2018
Back in the good old days of blogging I used to write monthly favourites posts every single month but I've gradually changed to writing current favourite posts as I never seem to have enough products to talk about in just one month; however May and June were fantastic months for amazing beauty products. I was very kindly sent all of these products, some of them are new to me this month and others I've been using for months! As well as favourites posts, one thing I used to do but that has fallen to the wayside is star ratings so I'm bringing them back now (all of my star ratings are out of five)!

*Baie Botanique Regenerating Serum (£34) ★★★★
Let's start with a couple of skincare favourites from a brand that I haven't tried until the beginning of June and I've fallen in love with them as not only are the products themselves so lovely but I also love the packaging and natural ingredients. Some of the natural ingredients are as follows: vitamin c, raspberry seed oil, lemongrass, green tea, cranberry, rosewood essential oil, grapeseed oil and many more.

The serum smells so lovely, it's filled with floral scents and it has such a smooth, gel-like texture so it feels silky on the skin. I adore serums, especially if they absorb quickly and this one does! As it absorbs it leaves my skin ridiculously smooth, soft and moisturised; it makes the perfect base for my moisturiser and then my makeup. The price is a little higher than I'd usually pay for a serum but it's gorgeous on my skin and you only need a tiny amount so I think one bottle will last quite a while! I cannot recommend this serum enough.
*Baie Botanique Regenerating Face Cream (£32) ★★★★
As well as the serum, the face cream has the same lovely scent and the same fantastic natural and organic ingredients including bayberry, liquorice, rose water, sugar cane, wild geranium and more. The face cream has a unique bottle as you have to twist the lid section and the dispenser pops up which I like but it isn't the most convenient design.

Out of the two products I've been lucky enough to try from Baie Botanique, I think the serum is my favourite product and that's not to say that I don't like the face cream, as I do but the serum is a little more impressive to me. However, that being said, I adore how smooth the face cream and serum combined leave my skin! The products don't irritate my sensitive, eczema prone skin but I haven't tried them when I've had a bad flareup so I can't fully say for certain but so far so good and I cannot recommend this brand enough, based on the products I've tried. They do have a fairly small range of products but I feel as though the quality and thought has gone into these.
*Miller Harris Lost In The City EDP ★★★★★
I've already fully reviewed this fragrance on my blog as I was sent it a month or so ago and I'm still loving it! I adore the packaging, although it's looking a little messy now as I use it every single day and the scent is amazing. I was so happy to receive the fragrance as I needed a new spring/summer fragrance as all of mine are pretty much autumnal fragrances and I received the perfect spring fragrance in Lost In The City from Miller Harris.

*Feather & Down Pillow Mist ★★★★★
Another product I've loved and used for a while is the Feather & Down pillow mist (both the original and the newer 'breathe' version). Feather and Down is one of my favourite sleep aid brands as all of their products are so effective, beautifully designed and they smell incredibly relaxing and calming. My favourite products of theirs have to include the pillow mists and the lovely melting shower cream both of which I'd recommend to everyone!

*Ben & Anna Provence Natural Deodorant ★★★★
I feel awful about this product as I was sent it last year (yes, last year) and I've been using it on and off since then but I've completely forgotten to mention it and review it on my blog, until now. I have the Provence scent which is filled with lavender and we all know that I adore lavender scented products, so I knew I would love this scent option. It's a natural deodorant which is something I've gradually moved towards over the past few years and this deodorant has to be one of my favourite natural deodorants as it's very effective, it doesn't have a strange texture/consistency and it smells lovely.
*Blanx Pro Whitening Toothpaste (£5.99 each) ★★★★★
The final items in my May and June favourites post are from Blanx, I have tried a couple of products from them previously but my favourites include the new Blanx Pro range. The Pro range includes three new whitening toothpastes which are new non-abrasive whitening toothpastes including arctic lichens, silicas, and enzymes to protect enamel, counteract plaque and dental yellowing.

I was sent all three options: fresh white, glossy white and pure white which differ in their colour, level of mint and flavour. The glossy white toothpaste might not be for everyone has it doesn't have a traditionally minty flavour, it's much milder and my sister said that it tastes like perfume...however it was my personal favourite of the three because it wasn't very minty! The pure white toothpaste is the most like a tradition minty toothpaste so I think this one will be the most popular option and finally, the fresh white toothpaste which is the most minty/strong of the three and it has a very vivid blue colour (that temporary turns my tongue blue...).
Earlier this month I was a bridesmaid for one of my best friends and it was such an amazing experience; some of the prep before the wedding was to whiten my teeth which I did with an at home teeth whitening kit as well as these toothpastes. I have tried the teeth whitening kit I used previously and it does help but this time round the whitening effect was much more noticeable and I can only account for that because of the Blanx Pro toothpastes I've been using every day during and after using that kit.

I've tried quite a few whitening toothpastes and if I'm completely honest, none of them have had much of a difference but these are so impressive. Since using the teeth whitening kit (from another brand), the whitening effect has increased even more so it's definitely down to using these toothpastes. I genuinely cannot recommend these toothpastes enough as I have personally experience nothing but positives since using them including a noticeable whitening. I would recommend the pure white and glossy white flavours the most not so much he fresh white option.

Have you tried any of these products? What have been your favourite beauty products from June?

Merry Kissmas with Sensodyne

Thursday, December 29, 2016
Merry Kissmas with Sensodyne
Christmas has just ended but I think we are all still in the christmassy mood of tiredness, cosiness and a constant food coma *the struggle is real, right* but I am coming to you today with a brand new post; it feels like ages since I just sat down and wrote a blog post but it's actually been just over a week or so.

Christmas to me has become less magical over the years, it was always so incredibly exciting as a child but now...not so much, I've just bought a car vacuum in the sale. However, while it isn't nearly as magical at the grand old age of 24, there are still a lot of things I adore about the festive season including the christmas markets, constant movies, fairy lights (which I think should be mandatory all year round), festive decorations, gift giving and receiving and the food or should I say, the acceptability of being able to eat ALL THE FOOD.

I'm a vegetarian, as is my grandad so christmas food isn't that exciting to either of us as traditional christmas food usually involves meat but there are treats that we both like such as warm chocolate cake with custard (which I definitely didn't eat for dinner yesterday), gingerbread biscuits, hot chocolate and mince pies. Rather annoyingly I have really quite sensitive teeth and some festive treats that include anything cold, such as ice cream or even just cold drinks will have me running to the kitchen to find something warm to reduce the pain.
Merry Kissmas with Sensodyne
In comes Sensodyne to the rescue (cue angels singing) with their new *True White Mint Sensitive Toothpaste (£7.99, 75ml). The new toothpaste is the lowest abrasion formula from Sensodyne (it's ten times less abrasive than other Sensodyne toothpastes) and is a specialist whitening toothpaste for sensitive teeth. Most people, myself included, want whiter teeth especially at this time of the year when you're meeting new people, visiting friends and family more and having Christmas/New Year parties to go to. I've tried a few whitening toothpastes and they don't seem to do that much for me personally and they can be so minty that it almost leaves a raw, burning feeling with my teeth and gums feeling even more sensitive than before but this new offering from Sensodyne is so incredibly gentle and it doesn't have a very minty taste either which is amazing for me!

I've been using it for about a week now and I'm loving it; it's so much more pleasant to use compared to the Colgate one I was using previously which by comparison is just mouth burningly minty and harsh. I also love the packaging as it keeps the tube less messy. I haven't noticed a massive change in terms of the whiteness of my teeth but I definitely think it's starting to help and it's also helping a little with sensitivity even though I haven't been using it for very long at all.

Here are Dr Amit Rai's top tips for a kissable Christmas and New Year:

  • Brushing your teeth twice a day and using floss or interdental brushes in-between can help remove plaque and prevent bad breath 
  • Research shows that 75% of people asked want their teeth to be whiter so give your teeth a top up with a gentle, low abrasion whitening toothpaste 
  • Don't skip brushing your teeth as it can lead to an increased risk of gum disease, decay and acid wear 
  • Keep your breath kissmassy fresh with a mouthwash but use it at a different time to brushing your teeth as if you use it straight after brushing, you could be washing away your toothpaste's beneficial ingredients 
  • Don't go too overboard with the sugar treats as it can lead to a risk of decay 

I was also very kindly sent an amazing Instax Mini 8 Camera and film from the super lovely and thoughtful people at Sensodyne as well as some christmas photo booth props which I did force everyone to wear on Christmas day! I adore the camera, I have wanted one for ages and I couldn't be happier with it! Highly recommend, as well as the toothpaste! 

Overall, I'm not only over the moon with the camera but I am so happy with the toothpaste as well and I really don't think I could go back to using another toothpaste as this one is not just really effective and so gentle but it isn't painfully minty either and with sustained use it will definitely continue to help with my teeth whitening needs and my sensitivity as well - what more could you ask for! Overall rating: ★★★★★, 5/5 (obviously). 

Have this tried this toothpaste or others from Sensodyne? Have you had a nice christmas? What do you think of the top tips? 

Top Ways To Whiten Your Teeth: Dentist Recommended

Wednesday, May 17, 2017
Image from apartmenttherapy.com via Pinterest
A great smile is instantly recognisable. It’s the perfect gateway to a great first impression, and yet so many of us struggle to stop daily life polluting our pearly whites. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways for us to whiten our smiles and get our grins up to scratch. Here are the top ways to whiten your teeth.

Baking Soda & Hydrogen Peroxide
A natural antibacterial agent, hydrogen peroxide is great for keeping both teeth and gums healthy. When combined with baking soda however, the paste removes plaque and daily grime, leaving your teeth looking fresh and white. For best results, either gargle the paste for one minute, or place it on your toothbrush and brush as you would normally. Obviously do your research beforehand!

Coconut Oil
It’s amazing to think that coconut oil has any more uses than it does already, but as it turns out, the incredible oil can whiten teeth too. Coconut oil includes antimicrobial properties which can be effective in both protecting and cleaning the teeth and gums. All you have to do is take a spoonful of the oil, and gargle the substance for between five and ten minutes. Admittedly, the taste can take a bit of getting used to, but if you’re looking to whiten your teeth with as little chemical interference as possible, this is definitely the way to go.

Heather here, just to interrupt to say that oil pulling is something that I have tried numerous times and I find that it helps to keep my teeth a little whiter than usual but as stated it isn't the most pleasant process/taste; however it is a fantastic natural option that I'd definitely recommend before trying anything else.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Both nicotine and caffeine are wonderfully addictive, and unfortunately they can ruin your attempts at achieving a pearly white smile. If this is an issue with you, then apple cider vinegar is most certainly your answer. Containing a mixture of acetic acid, potassium, magnesium, probiotics and enzymes, the vinegar both kills bad bacteria and promotes the growth of good, probiotic bacteria.

Professional Teeth Whitening
Sometimes, you just need a good old fashioned scrub. Professional teeth whitening is safe, reliable and likely to last a long time. While chemicals are used, they’re used in a controlled way that ensures your enamel is kept intact, and your dental hygiene is protected.

Our smile can so easily define us, and so if you’re worried that yours isn’t quite as bright as you’d like it to be, why not try whitening themt? At the end of the day, first impressions are everything!

About the Author 
As a cosmetic dentist, I’m dedicated to giving people the smile they’ve always wanted. If you’d like to take a look at how we at The Smile Dentist can help you, take a look at the website here.

*This is a sponsored post
*Image from Pinterest

*Summer Holiday Beauty Prep

Saturday, July 14, 2018
Image from Pink Peonies via Pinterest
Summer is finally here and the heatwave in England is looking like it's going to stay! I've been looking at holidays and I've booked a weekend away in the Lake District with friends in August; also I'm going on a cruise in August too so I've been thinking about summer holiday prepping! Here are some of my holiday beauty prepping steps, along with more exercise, toning and healthy eating.

Hair Removal 
Let's start with the most important and the most painful step, hair removal. The only thing I don't like about going away on holiday is the hair removal process as while shaving is very quick, easy and inexpensive, it doesn't last for very long at all! In comes waxing to the rescue, a painful rescue, which lasts much longer.

Waxing within a salon is definitely the way to go as I'm always too scared to do it myself, unless it's my brows! Groupon have a range of fantastic deals and offers on waxing within my home city of Manchester (there are various locations of salons around the city) with prices from as little as £6 which is so much more affordable than other options I've looked at so definitely check out Groupon for waxing deals before your summer holiday.

Teeth Whitening 
Next up is something I've done on and off for years, teeth whitening. I have tried almost every whitening toothpaste, mouthwash and at home treatment available (you can check out some of my reviews) and I have found a few that actually work! Firstly, the surprisingly amazing Blax Pro toothpastes which I've been using for a couple of months and it's dramatically helped and the iWhite Teeth Whitening kit - both of which I cannot recommend enough!

Masks & Treatments 
Lastly, for a masks and treatments! I use hair masks and face masks constantly for the few weeks leading up to my summer holiday. One of my favourite face masks is the Caudalie Detox Mask which is a fantastic mask for deeply cleansing the skin. I also like to use hair masks once a week or I will use my Moroccan Oil hair oil all over my hair and scalp for a few hours then wash it out for smooth, moisturised and tame hair.

What are your pre-holiday favourites or pampering processes? Do you use Groupon?

*This is a sponsored post
*Image from Pinterest 

2018 Goals + Wants

Friday, January 05, 2018

Image from Etsy via Pinterest
While I think it is a regularly mocked cliche of creating 'new year, new you' goals every January, I actually find having simple goals for the new year ahead helpful and motivating. My goals for this year are more general than last year so I don't put too much pressure on myself to reach everything on my list. For 2018 my goals are mainly building on my goals from last year and I have a couple of treatments that I'd like to finally get this year too.

Goal: Continue exercising, maintain my weight loss & eat well
In 2017 one of my goals was to exercise consistently, to lose weight and to eat better (and or become mostly vegan) and unlike every other year, I have actually reached all three of these goals. I've managed to stick to a 90% vegan lifestyle, I've been exercising consistently and almost daily since the start of summer and I have lost just over 20lbs (which is about 1.4 stone)!

For 2018 I want to continue my mostly vegan diet which isn't difficult for me especially as January is the month of veganuary. I also want to continue exercising consistently and to lose a little more weight in time for my bridesmaid duties in the spring. Are you taking part in veganuary?

Goal: Be more active & push myself more
I've never been one for exercising and throughout my time in primary school and secondary school, I did literally everything to avoid PE but now I am finding that I want to be more active in terms of hiking, yoga and cycling which I'm loving so I want to carry on with it in 2018. I also feel like I need to push myself more in terms of exercising and I'd love to try out rock climbing or kayaking, both of which I've done before.

Goal: Save money
Another goal of mine for 2018 is to save money rather than trying to spend it as soon as possible which has been my strategy so far...I'm lucky enough to earn money from my blog which is something I never thought would happen so I'd like to continue with that and save some of the money earned via my blog as well as putting some of it back into my blog.

Goal: Read more classics & read 100 books
In January 2016 I decided on a whim to start reading again after reading very little since primary school (apart from the books and articles I had to read for school, college and university) and I smashed my 2016 of 30 books then in 2017 I smashed my goal of 100 books by reading 143 which I'm so happy with.

For 2018 I've set my GoodReads reading goal to 100 books and I think I'll definitely reach it. Another reading goal of mine is to read longer books and to read more classics. I already have quite a few books lined up for these goals such as Les Miserable by Victor Hugo, Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoyevsky, The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss and It by Stephen King among many others. Do you have any reading goals for 2018?

Want: Laser Eye Surgery
Less of a goal and more of a want for 2018 - laser eye surgery is something I've been thinking about for the past couple of years. I definitely want to start the process of laser eye surgery this year but it is a little daunting, not just because of the slightly terrifying procedure but because there are so many options and companies out there so I'm not sure where to start. Have you gone through laser eye surgery, if so, who did you go with?

Want: Professional Teeth Whitening
Lastly I'd love to have my teeth professionally whitened this year! I've tried quite a lot of at home teeth whitening products but most of which didn't work very well for me personally so I think that professional teeth whitening is the answer! The Harley Street Smile Clinic is one of the UK's most experienced cosmetic dentistry clinics which provides such peace of mind knowing that you are in safe hands!

They offer a range of services such as veneer application, gum shaping or a mini smile makeover. They've worked with various celebrities, olympic athletes and they've had so many rave reviews. If you're like me and don't live in or near London then their e-consultation might be a great option to get a quote and advice.

What are your goals for 2018? What are your wants for 2018?

*This is a sponsored post
*Image from Pinterest