Man, it is gloomy in London. We would much rather be on a beach, lapping up the sunshine and drinking cocktails. Oh well, sometimes you have to bring the beach to you… If you’re in need of some pampering and self-care, here’s 5 of our favourite ways to brighten up your week in the capital right now. From manicures to blow drys, we’ve got it covered:

1. For Perfect Brows: Microblading at Karen Betts

What: Karen Betts is one of the UK’s leading authorities in medical tattooing and permanent makeup with over 20 years experience and Woman of the Year at the 2014 NatWest Every Woman Awards. She has treated thousands of people across the country, whose lives have been improved thanks to the gift of confidence these treatments can give. Karen is leading the way when it comes to developing new treatments and products – she is one of a very few elite artists in the UK that is recognised by the Society of Permanent Cosmetics Professionals in the USA.

What We Thought: Microblading with Karen Betts is like nothing you’ve tried before. Microblading – one of the biggest new trends in the brows world – is a permanent cosmetics treatment for your brows, performed using a manual hand tool. It’s a three-part process usually completed within two appointments, with a consultation at the start, to help give your brows definition and fullness. I was nervous before the appointment, but felt instantly relaxed when I met Karen – she is so professional, confident and listens intently to your personal wishes. I’m so happy with my new brows, finally they match!

Price: From £900

2. For Fresh Nails: Treatwell January Sale

What: Feeling the January blues? Chin up – for the whole of January Treatwell is giving you reasons to smile: save up to 50% off cuts, massages, nails… basically whatever makes you happy. January blues don’t stand a chance.

What We Thought: Great value for money, because shiny new manicures make everyone feel good. I booked in for a discounted, off-peak gel manicure at Le Lotus in Marylebone and totally loved it – I felt brighter just stepping out of the salon with my new colour. Winter winner.

Price: All information here

3. For a Colour Refresh: Taylor Taylor London

What: Looking for an amazing new salon in London? We have just the ticket. From East London to the Indian Ocean, Taylor Taylor London is ranked alongside the best hairdressers in the world. One visit and you’ll know why! For West London lovers, Taylor Taylor London recently opened its doors to the new salon on Portobello Road, Notting Hill. It’s really one of our favourite salons around –  one that not only offers luxurious treatments, but where you can come to socialise, relax and enjoy yourself. 

What We Thought: We loved the laid-back, easy vibe of the salon – the staff were all super friendly and caring. Unlike other salons, they really listen to your individual needs here – and their skill with colour is second to none. I loved the informality of the salon; gone are the days of being chained to the chair, with big tables for using the salon iPads and even the salon’s own cocktails bar for enjoying a drink during your treatment. Yes, please. 

Price: All information here

4. For a Winter Boost: Udo’s Choice

What: The Udo’s Choice range was developed by Udo Erasmus, an industry expert in healthy fats and nutrition. The range tackles four of the most neglected areas of nutrition in the typical diets of western populations; essential ‘healthy’ fats, greens, microbiotics and digestive enzymes. Udo’s Choice believe that healthcare is about taking care of yourself and your family with a preventative mindset, by giving your body the tools it needs to perform optimally.

What We Thought: I’m a massive fan of Udo’s Choice Digestive Enzymes – one of my favourite supplements to help with easy digestion of meals. Their latest Digestive Enzymes Gold are a blend of 9 plant based digestive enzymes, which help digest meals, especially meals rich with proteins. I really love the Udo’s Choice brand – being an independently certified organic producer and processor means all their products are high quality and chemical free. Win.

Price: All information here

5. For a Healthy Idea: Batch Organics

What: Batch Organics are creating a trend around flash-frozen foods and making the freezer aisle cool again. These nutritiously creative products are fuelled with goodness and the perfect healthy solution for on-the-go. Batch Organics is a subscription service delivering healthy and easy smoothie and breakfast solutions right to your doorstep. These plant-powered smoothies and breakfast bowls are totally organic and gluten-free. Glorious.
What We Thought: A really great way to get a boost of health in your day – all you need is a freezer, a blender (for smoothies), and a fridge for their overnight breakfast bowls.
Price: You can order Batch Organics on either a subscription or one-off basis. A box of 6 cups costs £23.95. If you subscribe the delivery is free, otherwise, it’s just £3. Buy online here.