I thought it would be fun to do this again... so here are some recent additions to my self-care routine that are making a difference:

Bond Repair:  Early 2024 my hair was full of split ends due to water damage, styling while wet, and a lack of pre-pooing. So, I decided to cut it, and I've started using Elvive Bond Repair shampoo and conditioner, which has worked wonders. It's now a staple in my routine. I begin with a dandruff prevention shampoo, then use the bond repair products, and finish off with a moisturizing or protein mask. I'm not using expensive products, yet I'm seeing results. I’ve also restarted pre-pooing my hair with either olive oil or coconut oil, depending on what I have at home. My hair is growing and is healthy, though very uneven from my terrible blunt cuts, but it’s thriving!

Eye Cream: I've added an eye cream to my morning and night routine—it's about time I guess! I'm using MIXSOON Bean Eye Cream and Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum.

Night Cream: The Caudalie Vinoperfect Dark Spot Correcting Glycolic Night Cream is really making a difference. When I first bought it in late winter or early spring this year, I thought I’d been duped by social media influencers. However, now I’m not sure if it’s the combination of the Italian summer (making me sweat like crazy) and the cream that’s enhancing my glow. Either way, I’ve definitely noticed a glow over the last few weeks.

Collagen Powder: I’ve been adding collagen powder to my smoothies for the last three weeks and have noticed a glow in my skin. I can’t prove that it’s solely due to the collagen since it could be because I’m in a calorie deficit, drinking more water, or perhaps even from the eye cream or Caudalie night cream. Anyway, stay tuned; I'll loop back later this year with an update on this post.

Perfume Talk: I went in to a Douglas Italia store to buy Bianco Latte but ended up with Bianco Oro. The most popular perfume in the world, did nothing for me! I only smelt  a plain simple white body soap bar . I know its me and my nose because I can't smelt it. Every video on perfumetok talks about how amazing this vanilla with a blend of milk and honey perfume is, so I thought why not. But I guess not...  I used to love sweet and floral scents, but now I’m really into patchouli. Seems I no longer want to smell delicate.... I adored Gucci Bloom and My Way; those were my go-to scents. Anytime I was passing through an airport, I would stock up. I want to feel feminine, assertive, attractive, and confident. It wasn't a gradual change—I just woke up one day and felt different. I have added Lush's Karma Perfume to my collection too. Let's see where this goes.