12 Days of Christmas: Guide to A Stay-In Spa Night

❤ Day Nine ❤

Today is an extra happy Friday for me. It was my last working day of 2012 as I will be taking the rest of the year off from work (yay!). Also my boyfriend is back in town for Christmas (double yay!), and I can't wait to finally drag take him to see Twilight tomorrow. I can't wait for the all the fun stuff lined up this pre-Christmas weekend! *squeals*

To get cozy and relaxed for the holidays, I've recently come up with a stay-at-home spa routine for those quiet evenings at home. It's the perfect stay-in night of pampering, best followed by a good night's sleep. Feels especially amazing for 1. chilly winter nights, and 2. evenings during the holiday season where you do not have to wake up for work the next day :)

Step One.

Take a long and steamy shower, then slip into your comfiest bath robe.

Slather on body butter - it feels extra amazing on soft, clean skin. My favorite is the Raspberry Body Butter from the Body Shop. The Body Shop makes the best body butters - non greasy yet creamy, and sinks into skin so so quickly. I usually prefer Bath & Body Works products over the Body Shop, all except their body butters. 

Step Two.

Now that you have clean skin and relaxed pores after the shower, give yourself a stay-at-home facial! I like to do a two step routine: start with a deep cleanse mask, then follow with a hydrating one. My two favorites are the Fresh Umbrian Clay Mattifying mask (which can be used as an all over mask, a problem-area remedy, or a spot treatment), and Laneige Water Sleeping Pack (slather on before bed, feel the cooling sensation, wake up with happy supple skin).

Step Three.

Now clear your mind and relax under the aroma of your favorite candle. 

The Lavender Vanilla candle that Ellie sent me has been my recent favorite.

Happy Friday, relax and enjoy.

4 days till Christmas!