Keeping Confident with Male Hair Loss

Hair loss is something that happens to everybody at some stage in life. For women, it can happen pre or postpartum or post surgery. It can also happen with age and hormonal changes. For men, male pattern baldness and early onset male pattern baldness are often a big concern. A receding hairline or widow's peak combined with a bald patch at the back of the head can lead to confidence issues.

Hair loss can therefore have a severe impact on your mental health, because if your confidence is impacted, the rest of you will be too. The good news is that it doesn't have to have long term effects and it doesn't need to be seen as a death sentence for your confidence or for your love life. For example, if you are losing hair, it may not just be from the top of your head. You could lose your eyelashes and your eyebrows at the same time, or you could definitely notice a thinning. Some men like to opt for lash extensions to help them when this happens. And others like to speak to a wig specialist about a toupee for the bald patch on their heads. Either way, you need to do what you can to stay as confident as possible when your hair is being lost, especially as a man.Here are the tips to help you to do just that.

Image source: Pexels

• Put it into perspective. Hair loss at the moment is going to feel like the worst thing that could ever happen to you, but in perspective, it's really not going to be. There are so many solutions to cover hair loss.Or to embrace it and just shave your head. Whatever you do, if your hair loss could be an unwanted change, you need to make sure that you are giving your appearance the once over as a whole and not just focusing on hair loss. 
• Get practical. Your hair needs to be looked after and while unpleasant, hair loss isn't dangerous. You can be practical with supplements and hair-boosting foods and serums. Honestly, though, the best thing that your hair needs is protein! Boost your protein (but don't overdo it!) and get your water in. Hydration and protein will make a big difference to your hair health and hair growth. Hair loss is normal and often genetic and when this is the case you can’t stop it from happening; you can simply slow it down. 
• Choose a new hairstyle. You may have to consider a brand new hairstyle when your hair is being lost but not short enough to notice it. A new way to wear your hair or a whole new cut can make a big difference to the way in which your hair looks. Choose a style for the hair that you currently have and not the hair that you want. 
• Care carefully. Hair care is a big deal and if you want to prevent any further loss, care for it carefully and properly and notice when you are making the right choices. Avoiding heat or too many chemicals can be vital for the health of your hair. 

Seeking professional help is also another option to consider to rule out any underlying health problems, but remember you are not alone when it comes to hair loss and finding the right treatment for you. x Neil. 

Technic Lip Rescue Serum

Bathe the lips in natural oils when applying the easy to use and affordable Technic Lip Rescue Serum in one swipe. Lip serums are the perfect product to apply because they instantly provide emollience with hydration for a quick but much needed treatment. Formulated with a blend of natural oils, the lip rescue serum can be used after lip scrubs, as an overnight treatment, or prepping the lips before applying lipsticks. A great tip to remember, especially for colder climates and seasons, is to apply the lip serum and then apply a lip balm over the top to seal over and create a barrier to stop the moisture wicking away from the lips.   

Technic Lip Rescue Serum Ingredients: HYDROGENATED POLYDECENE, POLYISOBUTENE, PENTAERYTHRITYL TETRAISOSTEARATE, CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE, OCTYLDODECANOL, COCOS NUCIFERA (COCONUT) OIL SIMMONDSIA CHINENSIS (JOJOBA) SEED OIL; PHENOXYETHANOL, AROMA (FLAVOR), CITRAL, LIMONENE, LINALOOL, PRUNUS AMYGDALUS DULCIS (SWEET ALMOND) OIL, TOCOPHERYL ACETATE (VITAMIN E), ROSA CANINA (ROSEHIP) FRUIT OIL, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN.

Presented in a bottle with a doe foot applicator that is attached to lid, the serum should be applied to clean and dry lips. The lightweight and silky formula applies exceptionally well onto the lips without any drips whilst i felt no stickiness or greasiness after applying, just highly moisturised lips! A perfect lip treatment to apply at night or keep in your bag for when you need it, priced at £4.00 and available here: Technic Lip Rescue Serum x Neil.  

Ordo Hydro Sonic Water Flosser

Approved and designed by dentists, the Ordo hydro sonic water flosser provides the deepest and effective clean of your mouth whether you're at home or travelling. The innovative design features hydro-kinetic technology to blast away plaque and food debris from between teeth and along the gum line that your toothbrush can sometimes miss or reach. Regular flossing methods using traditional nylon or plastic floss can sometimes irritate the gums which is why switching over to a water flosser has been shown to be up to 29% more effective than traditional floss. 

The rechargeable ordo hydro sonic water flosser features a 260ml tank capacity (the largest on the market for any hand held flosser) and gives you 55 seconds of continuous cleaning that provides 2000 water pulsations per minute. Featuring three pressure settings which are Sensitive mode (low), Daily Clean (medium) and Power Clean (high), it also features an 'on demand' mode whilst the Smart 2 minute timer with quad-pacer pulses every 30 seconds to assist in cleaning the 4 quadrants of your mouth. The Lithium Ion battery with long life battery provides 4 weeks+ on one charge whilst the Smart LED indicator with low power reminder and power-off protection prevents battery damage.

I love how quick and easy the water flosser is to use with its non-slip grip texture whilst the 360 degree nozzle rotation is excellent to reach any area in your mouth at any angle. The flosser is also treated with a special antimicrobial additive that reduces bacteria buildup by over 99% whilst also featuring a travel lock to stop spillages and you can even store your flossing tips in the internal space featured on the flosser device. Available in four colours which are charcoal grey, pearl violet, rose gold, and white the contents inside the box is: Ordo Hydro Sonic Water Flosser, Ordo Premium Floss tips x 2 - Frosted Collar and Grey Collar, USB-C to USB Charging Cable, Instruction and User Manual.

Elevate your oral-care routine, priced at £44.99 but at a discount clicking here: Ordo Hydro Sonic Water Flosser whilst also don't forget to use my discount code on all products by clicking on it here: BLONDEMALEBLOG

Read my previous reviews here: ordo sonic electric toothbrush and the ordo sonic charging travel cases x Neil. 

SOME BY MI Retinol Intense Reactivating Serum

Containing three retinols, the SOME BY MI Retinol Intense Reactivating Serum is the perfect product to include in your evening skincare routine. Suitable for sensitive skin, though always do a patch test first, the Retinol Intense Reactivating Serum contains 0.1% retinol, 1 ppm retinal, whilst also including 5,000 ppm of Bakuchiol. The exclusive complex of the serum contains the patented technology of elastic-liposome that is able to deliver the effective and active ingredients deep into the skin to help improve elasticity, wrinkles, pores and skin texture. 

Presented in a bottle with a dispensing dropper tool, the serum appears and feels like a typical milky serum that should be applied to clean skin in the evening. I would suggest only applying once every 2 days for the first 2 weeks until your skin tolerates any retinol product and then you can build-up applications to every night. I really like this formulation though because not only does it contain emollients and humectants for hydration and moisturisation, but it also contains an abundance of skin-soothing ingredients to keep the skin calm and reduce inflammation. 

The full ingredients of the SOME BY MI Retinol Intense Reactivating Serum.   

Water, Cyclohexasiloxane, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Glycerin, Methylpropanediol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Hydrogenated Poly(C6-14 Olefin), Panthenol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Piper Methysticum Leaf/Root/Stem Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Panax Ginseng Berry Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Ficus Carica (Fig) Fruit Extract, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Root Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Extract, Artemisia Capillaris Extract, Eclipta Prostrata Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Glyceryl Stearate, Bakuchiol, Palmitic Acid, Sodium Polyacrylate, Stearic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Retinol (0.1 %), Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Butylene Glycol, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Adenosine, Tromethamine, Polyquaternium-51, Beta-Glucan, Cetyl Alcohol, BHT, Collagen, Myristic Acid, BHA, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Tocopherol, Bifida Ferment Lysate, Ceramide NP, Saccharomyces Ferment, Retinal, Asiaticoside, Glyceryl Polymethacrylate, Madecassoside, Propylene Glycol, Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate, Glycolipids, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Peptide, Resveratrol, Sucrose Distearate, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, PEG-100 Stearate, Polysorbate 20, Fragrance, Ethylhexylglycerin

Easily spreadable on the skin, there is a slight fragrance that soon disappears whilst the serum absorbs really quickly leaving no stickiness or tackiness. I typically apply a retinol product to the skin and wait 20 to 30 minutes before applying a moisturiser and oil to allow the formulation to work to its full potential, just don't forget to apply your broad-spectrum sun protection the following morning to protect your renewed complexion!   

A gentle, but highly effective serum to contribute to your evening skincare routine and to benefit your skin, don't forget to use my discount code by clicking here: BLONDEMALE1 whilst purchasing here: SOME BY MI Retinol Intense Reactivating Serum x Neil.

KAINE Kombu Balancing Ampoule Toner

Restore and support the barrier of the skin when easily applying the hydrating KAINE Kombu Balancing Ampoule Toner. Packaged in vegan, sustainable and recyclable packaging, the pH balanced toner contains antioxidants, humectants/moisturisers, with also anti-inflammatory soothing ingredients to calm the skin. It also noted that this skincare product is alcohol-free and is also free from fragrances and essential oils. Ampoule toners are a great product to use to deliver active and potent ingredients to the skin and this one does not disappoint, read on to find out more. 

The KAINE Kombu Balancing Ampoule Toner contains 60% of fermented kombucha which is jeju green tea extract inoculated with lactobacillus and brewers yeast and fermented for 72 hours. The fermented kombucha after this period is found to contain 8 times more antioxidant vitamin c then lemons whilst also containing EGCG (Epigallocatechin gallate) that helps improve skin hydration, moisture retention, and wrinkle formation, in addition to radical scavenging activity and reduction of melanin generation. The formula also contains 1% panthenol which is pro-vitamin b5 that not only provides anti-inflammatory and skin-protecting properties but it also hydrates and helps the skin produce more lipids to support a healthier skin barrier. 

Hydrated skin is happy skin, this can easily be achieved thanks to the intense hydration from the 8 different hyaluronic ingredients which are: Potassium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, and Sodium Hyaluronate, It is also combined with other humectant and moisturisers which are Propanediol, Glycerin, Betaine, Glycereth-26, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract, Hydroxyethyl Urea, Glyceryl Glucoside, Butylene Glycol, Dextrin, and Glucose.

Skin calming with anti-inflammatory and soothing benefits are achieved by the additional ingredients cynanchum atratum extract, althaea rosea flower extract, Beta-Glucan, and Allantoin whilst antioxidants Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Extract and tocopherol help to prevent damage from environmental free radicals that can damage the skin. In fact, the whole formula does NOT contain artificial flavors and colors, parabens, phenoxyethanol, animal-derived ingredients and no mineral oil. All the products from Kaine are vegan-certified and are not tested on animals whilst the packaging is made from used and recycled plastics and glass.

Suitable for all skin types, but more beneficial for those who suffer with sensitive and dry skin because your wanting to improve the barrier function with hydration and soothing benefits, the ampoule toner should be applied straight after cleansing. The three ways you can apply are: Dispense onto a cotton pad and sweep gently over the whole face even the delicate eye area, Apply into your hands and gently pat into the skin until absorbed, Or moisten a cotton pad with the toner and leave this on a specific area for 5 to 10 minutes for a soothing skin treatment. 

The rich gel-like texture sets itself apart from other toners on the market as this one feels extremely hydrating and refreshing when applying and achieves more than just your standard water-based toners. Absorbing quickly, you can then proceed to apply your typical serums, moisturisers and sunscreen in the morning, whilst in the evening just remember to apply this first after cleansing before following on with your current night-time products. Hydrate, soothe, and calm the complexion when incorporating this affordable ampoule toner into your skincare routine. 

Don't forget to use my discount code: BLONDEMALE1 and purchase here: KAINE Kombu Balancing Ampoule Toner x Neil. 

We Are Faace - Dull Faace Cleanser

Innovative with their products, the brand We Are Faace expertly provide fuss-free skincare and the Dull Faace Cleanser does not disappoint. The creamy textured cleanser combines specific ingredients to not only achieve a non-stripping wash of the face, but also it unclogs impurities from congested skin whilst also brightening the skin tone. Used as a daily cleanser for those who have no time for themselves and need a quick but improved complexion fix, the product can also be used as a treatment mask for when you have some me time and want a more intensive skin treatment.

I love the dull faace skincare cleanser because even though it contains kaolin to draw out impurities it doesn't leave my skin feeling dry or taut because of the humectants, emollients, and the oils it contains in its formulation. Antioxidants are also included to fight free-radicals that can damage collagen whilst the skin-brightening ingredients vitamin c, licorice, and kojic acid with citric acid help to improve skin tone for a glowing complexion. The We Are Faace - Dull Faace Cleanser Ingredients: 

Aqua, Kaolin, Carthamus tinctorius (Organic Safflower) seed oil**, Vegetable glycerin**, Glyceryl stearate, Stearic acid, Cetyl alcohol, Benzyl alcohol, Dehydroacetic Acid, Sorbic acid, Benzoic acid, Persea Gratissima (Organic Avocado) oil**, Camellia sinensis (Organic Green tea) leaf extract**, Citrus grandis (Organic Grapefruit) peel oil*, Glycyrrhiza glabra (Organic Licorice) root extract*, Aloe barbadensis (Organic Aloe Vera) leaf extract**, Magnesium Ascorbyl phosphate (Vitamin C), Xanthan gum, Tocopherol acetate (Vitamin E), Coco glucoside, Rosa canina (Organic Rosehip) seed oil**, Citric acid, Sclerotium gum, Hyaluronic acid, Sodium phytate, Tocopherol, Citrus aurantium dulcis (Neroli) flower Oil*, Citrus aurantium amara (Petitgrain) leaf oil*, Vanilla planifolia (Organic Vanilla) fruit extract**, Kojic acid, Boswellia Carterii (Organic Frankincense) Oil*, Punica granatum (Organic Pomegranate) seed oil**, Jasminum officinale (Organic Jasmine) flower oil*, Cananga odorata (Organic Ylang ylang) flower oil*, Cymbopogon martinii (Organic Palmarosa) grass Oil*, Curcuma longa (Organic Turmeric) root oil*, Vetiveria zizanioides (Organic Vetiver) root oil*, Helichrysum italicum (Organic Immortelle) flower oil*. †Limonene, †Linalool, †Citral, †Eugenol, †Benzyl benzoate, †Benzyl salicylate, †Farnesol, †Benzyl alcohol. *Organic, *Certified Organic. †Occurs naturally in Essential Oils.

Presented in a tube with a twist-off lid, the cleanser can be applied to dry or wet skin by massaging over the whole face and even the eye area gently, before washing off with warm water which i tend to practice in the morning. In the evening i reach for the creamy cleanser to act as a mask to allow the formulation to remove the daily grime and pollutants your skin can pick up during the day, leaving it to act for up to 10 minutes, before removing with warm water and a face cloth. The vegan-friendly cleanser is suitable for all skin types and also provides an earthy wellbeing scent that calms any busy mind when used morning and evening. Priced at £27.00 and available here: Dull Faace Cleanser x Neil. 

Why Sleep is the New Superpower for Men

Men who believe that sleeping when they die need a wake-up call - we are here to break that myth for them! Your "I'll Sleep When I'm Dead" mentality could be setting back more than expected. Our mission today is to instil in you an appreciation of quality shut-eye.

Photo by Sander Sammy on Unsplash

Sleep: the Secret Ingredient to Physical Wellness

Eight hours of restful sleep per night is not simply recommended by health gurus; it is an absolute requirement. Lack of rest reduces immunity and raises risk factors for chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease and obesity - with all-nighters potentially contributing to that stubborn belly fat you've been trying so hard to shed at the gym!

Sleep, a Catalyst for Mental Might

Imagine this: it's Monday morning; you are at a client meeting armed with coffee because, let's face it, last night was spent binge-watching your favorite show on Netflix. Halfway through your meeting with them, their boss asks an unexpected question that requires your focus and response. Have you ever experienced opening your mouth to respond, only for it to feel as though your brain has become bogged down with treacle? That is your sleep-deprived brain crying out for a break! Sleep is your mind's cleaner, helping it clear away cognitive cobwebs while strengthening memory, increasing concentration and improving overall cognitive functions. Don't underestimate its power; take some quality pillow time! Rather, this time provides your brain with necessary downtime so it can rejuvenate itself before facing new challenges head-on!

Emotional Stability: A Gift From Sleep

Let's talk feelings. No, we don't intend to act as your local psychotherapist here - instead we want to highlight one often-overlooked aspect of sleep: its impact on emotional wellbeing. Sleep and mood are inextricably linked. Have you noticed how after an insomniac night, your emotional resilience decreases significantly? Suddenly being more short with those around you and less tolerant towards their quirky habits are likely. Sleep loss reduces emotional resilience. Sleep can help manage stress more effectively while also stabilizing your emotions, making you less prone to emotional roller coasters. So before blaming an argument with your partner on Mercury being retrograde, think instead about how well-rested you were last night!

Sleep Equals Productivity

For workaholics everywhere, lack of sleep equates to reduced alertness and concentration, directly impacting productivity. If you are pulling an all-nighter just to meet that deadline, there is more likely to be errors made and it could take more time for completion.

CBD for Sleep: Is Cannabis CBD (Cannabidiol) the Ultimate Natural Sandman? 

Now comes an intriguing twist in this tale of alternative medicine's biggest craze - can CBD (Cannabidiol) help improve our quality of sleep? This compound, long considered an antidote for anxiety, has long been touted for its potential to curb insomnia by targeting its root causes. Early research suggests it might even work, though everyone's experiences may differ so be sure to consult your physician first if considering CBD - take your journey slowly in search of better sleep!

Sleep Is Not a Luxury 

To sum it all up, sleep should not be treated as an unnecessary luxury but as an integral component of daily life that enhances both physical and mental wellbeing, emotional stability, and productivity. x Neil.

SANN Beauty Nourish + Care Lip Serum

Bathe the lips in precious oils with rich ingredients when applying the SANN Beauty, nourish + care lip serum. The innovative solid lip product provides instant hydration and care whilst being available in 4 shades which are bare (clear), morning dew, sunset, and wild. Utilising sustainable packaging, you can also be reassured that all the brands products are cruelty free, vegan friendly, gluten and paraben free whilst also upholding clean beauty standards.

The full Ingredients of the SANN nourish + care lip serum in Bare are as follows:

Bis-Behenyl/Isostearyl/Phytosteryl Dimer Dilinoleyl Dimer Dilinoleate*, Isocetyl Stearate*, Polybutene, Diisostearyl Malate, Theobroma Grandiflorum Seed Butter (Cupuacu Butter)*, Candelilla Cera (Candelilla Wax) Hydrocarbons*, Silica, Dipentaerythrityl Pentaisononanoate, Glyceryl Citrate/Lactate/Linoleate/Oleate*, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Protein*, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil*, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil*, Copernicia Cerifera Cera (Carnauba Wax)*, Synthetic Beeswax, Dipalmitoyl Hydroxyproline*, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Leaf Extract*, Palmitic Acid*, Phospholipids*, Tocopherol*. *Plant origin

Presented in stylish and bag-friendly packaging, the lip serum easily glides onto the lips whilst instantly hydrating and nourishing with long-lasting results, this is NOT a lip balm that needs to be constantly applied! The formula absorbs and provides long-lasting results so you wont have overly oily or greasy lips and is the perfect treatment to apply to shield the lips during the day, prep the lips before any lipstick or glosses, apply after any lip scrub, whilst also applying before bed for an overnight lip treatment. 

The clear formula named "Bare" is priced at £22.00  and for every product purchased you fund a day of school for girls in Africa through SANN Beauty permanent partnership with CAMFED. Check out the products here: nourish + care lip serum x Neil. 

10 Habits That Will Help You Build Mental Strength

10 Habits That Will Help You Build Mental Strength.

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Ever feel like life’s throwing you more curveballs than expected? It’s all about how you swing back. Dealing with those unforeseen twists depends on your knack for bouncing back, adapting, and keeping your emotional compass steady. A UK research dug deep and found that solid habits can make all the difference in your life, leading to a happier life. It’s never too early or too late to take a step toward building mental toughness today. Here are ten game-changers that can boost your mental muscles, propelling you past challenges and improving your daily life. 

1. Set SMART goals

 

Do you want to supercharge your motivation? Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART) goals can help you achieve this. These are like your goal compass, steering your motivation and helping you keep your focus laser-sharp. Instead of wandering around in a haze, these goals light up the way to those milestones that truly matter. Whether you’re acing that passion project, chasing career dreams, or smashing your fitness goals, SMART goals are your secret sauce for building the mental strength needed for achieving those goals. Setting such goals also makes tracking your progress easier and identifying which areas you can improve so your eye is always on the ball.

2. Embrace change

Change is the wild card life deals us. You have two choices: roll the dice yourself or feel overwhelmed by the game. But let’s face it, change is that one guest who never RSVPs, no matter how hard you try. However, flexing mental muscles means not cowering from change but forging it. But hold on; this doesn't suggest rushing into things. It’s about taking calculated risks. After all, personal growth doesn't bloom in your cosy corners. If you’re into levelling up, brace for change. It would be best to dance with discomfort because dodging pain does more harm than a face-off. Start with a mindset that sparks shifts if change’s on your wish list.

3. Don't shy away from solitude; make friends with it

How comfortable you are in your skin is a litmus test for how well you unravel your mysteries. And solitude is an excellent backstage pass to self-discovery. Have you ever experienced that personal “aha” moment with stillness after a brief moment with yourself or retreat somewhere? That is why many people make it a daily or weekly habit to take a solo escape into their thoughts. Research backs this, proving that solitude has enormous benefits. It’s a power move, helping you accept who you are while firing up your creative engines, boosting your mental health, and teaching you how to love yourself. Enjoying your own company can make you feel happier and less stressed and build mental toughness. Be willing to walk this path, and you’ll be glad you did. 

4. Flex your confidence muscle

If you want to build mental strength, it’s time to show self-doubt the exit. Boost your self-confidence like you’re doing a victory dance. Celebrate those wins, flex your strengths, and pat yourself on the back for those times you nailed it. This step isn't about puffing your chest - it’s about knowing your awesomeness, standing tall against challenges, and giving a high-five to your inner superstar. The more goals you crush, the more you’ll realise you’ve got this survival thing down. When you hit those stagnant moments or doubt yourself, dive into your success reel and jog your memory about everything you’ve aced. It’s like a power-up for your confidence. 

5. Face one thing at a time

Let’s be real; juggling a gazillion things is taming a whirlwind. Instead, why not make monotasking your go-to solution? Devote all your mojo to one task at a time. This turbocharges your focus, slashes stress, and lets you conquer each task with all your firepower. Doing this helps you tidy up the chaos in your mind, creating room for top-notch work. So, if you’re all in for supercharging your mental game, embrace monotasking! Quality trumps quantity - every single time. 

6. Put your wellness on the priority list

Your mental and physical health are like besties; they go everywhere together. Ready to give your mental health a power-up? You don't have to become a fitness enthusiast. It’s the little things that count. Rise and shine on schedule, and start your day with a healthy routine. Sip two glasses of warm water, freshen up in the shower, pamper your skin, and power up with a hearty breakfast. Keep your body moving all day, and set aside around thirty minutes for a workout. Stroll in the great outdoors, and plan fun outdoor hangs with pals. Sweet cravings and fast food moments are cool; throw in plenty of fruits and veggies. These habits are your ticket to both mental resilience and a contented body. 

7. Have mindful moments

Mindful moments can be your secret stress buster. Have you ever tried hitting the pause button on life’s rollercoaster? That’s what mindful moments are all about. Take a deep breath, soak in the moment, and watch stress fade away like a fading sunset. These bite-sized breaks are like mini-vacations for your brain - they amp up focus, dial down anxiety, and deliver a wave of peace in the chaos. 

8. Emotional intelligence: your mental superpower 

Have you got your emotional game face on? Emotional intelligence is the x-factor that turbocharges your relationships, including the one with yourself. Tune into your emotions, manage them like you’re built for it, and empathise with others. Nailing this means having the keys to connection and communications that’s smoother than butter. Indeed, the body’s natural tendency to maintain mental stability and balance can impact emotional intelligence. When your physical well-being is disrupted due to factors like stress, lack of sleep, or poor nutrition, it can lead to emotional imbalances. These disruptions can influence your ability to manage emotions effectively, empathise with others, and make sound decisions. 

You can also find alternative natural ways to relax and calm your emotions. For instance, if you’re interested in CBD products, you can check brands like the Real Cannabis Club for natural products to sustain internal stability and improve your emotional and mental well-being. 

9. Set healthier boundaries

Here’s the thing about setting those boundaries. It’s not about building walls; it’s about making your mental health a priority. Today’s tech has made connecting a breeze, but let’s be real; it has its downsides, too, especially regarding your mental space. Sure, being social is cool, but it’s crucial to set up some mental fences. You’ve got to draw a line in your head, creating a clear divide between your personal haven and the big old world out there. Limiting time, energy, and commitments shields you from burnout. And that whole ‘saying no’ thing? It’s like flexing your self-respect muscle. Boundaries are your knights in shining armour, protecting your well-being and helping you build mental strength. 

10. Keep life in perspective, and ask for help when necessary

Life’s unpredictable, like a rollercoaster, and you’re not just a passenger but a conductor. When obstacles pop up, it’s all about perspectives. Setbacks aren’t roadblocks; they’re stepping stones to growth. Every challenge is a lesson waiting to be learned. Keep your eye on the silver lining; adversity doesn't stand a chance. Also, being mentally strong isn't about being a lone wolf. Sometimes you need a sidekick. Reach out to pals, family, or pros - asking for help is like a badge of honour, showing you’re all in on your mental well-being journey.

So there you have it - your guide to building mental strength tougher than a titanium shield. Weaving these 10 habits into your daily life isn't just about resilience but crafting a fulfilling and stable life. Armed with these mental tools, you can take on life’s epic adventures with enthusiasm, grace, and an unbreakable spirit. x Neil.

Mary & May Idebenone + Blackberry Complex Intensive Total Care Cream

The Mary & May Idebenone + Blackberry Complex Intensive Total Care Cream is an antioxidant packed formula that provides skin-firming and intense hydration benefits when applied morning and evening. Enriched with 63% Blackberry Complex and 500ppm of Idebenone to fight free radicals, soften fine lines and brighten skin, the cream also contains five kinds of ceramides with Phytosphingosine to strengthen and support the skin's barrier function. Free from animal testing and free from the 7 ingredients you may wish to exclude from your skincare products which are: paraben, artificial fragrance and colors, alcohol, mineral oil, surfactants and allergens.

The Mary & May Idebenone + Blackberry Complex Intensive Total Care Cream Ingredients:

Rubus Fruticosus (Blackberry) Fruit Extract (21%), Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract (21%), Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract (21%), Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Purified Water, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Isododecane, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Cetearyl Olivate, Panthenol, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Sorbitan Olivate, Sodium Polyacrylate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Arginine, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hydroxydecyl Ubiquinone (500ppm), Adenosine, Pentylene Glycol, Trideceth-6, Disodium EDTA, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Sodium Hyaluronate, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Stearic Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramide NP, Ceramide NS, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Ceramide AS, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP.

Presented perfectly in eco-friendly packaging with soy ink, the cream is accessed by twisting off the lid from the glass jar and using the handy spatula to dip into and then apply to the skin. I was surprised by the silky-smooth texture of the cream that effortlessly glides onto the skin and over it, whilst instantly nourishing as it absorbs. The cream is ideal for those who are looking for a skin supporting product if you suffer with sensitive, dehydrated or dry skin. I would state you may find this product too heavy and nourishing if you have oily or normal skin in which case a water-based gel moisturiser might suit your skin type better. A perfect antioxidant moisturiser to defend against free radicals, restore hydration, and support the barrier function to lock in water content for a healthier complexion morning and night.

Don't forget to use my discount code click here: BLONDEMALE1 and purchase here: Mary & May Idebenone + Blackberry Complex Intensive Total Care Cream x Neil. 

Confidence Boost and Tricks Every Man Can Use

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Are you struggling with low self-confidence, or are you self-conscious about your appearance? You're not alone, and in the US, over three-quarters of the population have admitted to having low confidence or feeling conscious at one time or another.

But that doesn't mean there aren't things you can do to improve your confidence. You don't have to struggle with low confidence in life. Finding tips and tricks to help you boost your confidence can help you get in the zone, give yourself a boost, and live life in the spotlight, not hiding in the shadows.

Remove Negativity

Negativity and even hate can be barreled at you from many directions. Still, one of the common aspects in those struggling with confidence issues is the internal dialogue that tells you you're not good enough.

You must learn to quieten your voice and replace negative thoughts with positive ones. Replace the "I hate" or the "I don't like" statements with "My favorite thing about me is" or "I like the way that…." If you don't let the negative thoughts in, they can’t impact you.

The same goes for those around you. Remove yourself from toxicity chipping away at you and making you believe you are less worthy of life and attention. Tell yourself you are deserving, and you can do this to boost your confidence when needed.

Dress Well

Dressing well doesn't always mean being on trend or wearing the latest designs; it means dressing well for your state of mind. Clothes that make you feel good and comfortable can go a long way in making you feel confident. Dress in clothes you want to wear, not what you think you should be, because the more comfortable you feel in your outfit, the more confident you will feel.

Challenge Yourself

Do something every day that scares you, right? These aren't always massive actions like skydiving or public performances unless you want to, then go right ahead! It is the little actions you avoid doing because you don't feel confident enough. Start with things like lifting your head and making eye contact. Take up the metaphorical space in a room with your presence, smile at people, start a conversation with a stranger, or travel to new places alone. Whatever you avoid because you don't feel like you can do it, push yourself to face your fears and see what could happen.

Get Healthy

Eating well and exercising is known for being able to boost your mood. And when you feel good, your confidence will soar with it. Many people struggle with low confidence due to body issues, and eating a healthy, balanced diet and working out can release those happy hormones that can make you feel better about yourself, your life, and everything else. Exercise releases endorphins, and endorphins make you happy.

Get any health concerns checked out, too. If anything is bothering you physically or mentally, seek professional help and support, from getting therapy to having dental implants to replace missing teeth or looking into hair regrowth options to cover hair loss. Whatever it is about your health, body, or appearance that worries you, talk to your doctor and look into treatment options to help remove this factor and get that confidence boost you need.

Fake It

Fake it till you make it has worked for many people over the years. They even made a film about one of America's greatest con men who faked multiple careers without having any training or qualifications and got away with it for years (Catch Me If You Can 2002 with Leonardo DiCaprio playing Frank Abagnale Junior). While you don't need to go to these extremes, it can be worth copying someone you admire for their confidence and seeing how you can emulate this into your behavior to help you fake your confidence until you really feel it. The more you practice, the less you will need to fake it as you learn ways and tricks to appear confident. Pretty soon, you won't be faking anything, and you will be able to draw on this to elevate your self-confidence and self-worth.

Boosting your self-confidence won't come overnight, nor will it be easy. However, it is something that is worth sticking with to help you make positive changes and improvements in your life. Once you start putting these habits into place, they will become second nature, and you can enjoy your life without being held back because you don't feel confident enough to live how you want to. x Neil