How to work self-care into your beauty routine
How to work self-care into your beauty routine
We probably shouldn’t be saying this, but it’s all too easy to get lost in the aesthetic side of beauty. Yes, we love any serum that will make our skin all dewy and glowing, and of course, how can we not resist a mascara that promises to instantly double the length of our lashes? (Which by the way, if you’ve discovered, please let us know.) But sometimes it’s important to take stock of the fact that the real beauty of, well, beauty, is that it’s a concept that has the potential to make us feel as good as it can make us look.
Self-care was arguably this year’s biggest buzz-word. Along with the B-word (shh! Brexit!) it defined the zeitgeist of 2019, and with good reason. Self-care is being touted as the tonic we need to manage every modern-day lifestyle issue- from mental health problems to stress. The inherent problem with self-care however is that it can throw those with stressfully busy lives into even more panic (“how will I fit ANOTHER thing into my week?”) which sort of defeats the object. But we’ll let you in on a little secret: self-care and beauty are inextricably linked. Looking after your skin, your hair, your nails – they’re all about putting yourself first and nurturing you - so if you’re already into your beauty (and if you’re reading this, then chances are you are) then you’re already practicing self-care. But what if you want to take your self-care to the next level? Well that’s where we step in. We’ve put together five top tips, from those in the know, on transforming your current beauty regime into an elevated self-care practice that even Gwyneth Paltrow would be jealous of. So, if you’re ready to prioritize yourself, keep reading, because - to quote one of the beauty industry’s best-known phrases - you’re worth it.
1. Step up your skincare game
Do you have a ten-step skincare routine that puts Korean-beauty fans to shame, or are you more of an ad-hoc-sheet-mask-night kind of gal? If you’re the former then you’ve got the right idea: that nightly skincare regime of yours is actually a dedicated self-care ritual by another name. Elevating your routine skincare habits is a great way to practice self-care: just the act of dedicating an extra ten minutes a day to your skin is a way of nourishing both your pores and your soul. Don’t let a lack of time be a barrier: simply look for skincare products that double up, doing the job of two or more products at once, and when you have a bit more time to yourself, indulge in more luxurious products with effective ingredients, feel-good formulas and promising results. Earlier evenings and longer nights are the perfect excuse to lock yourself away with an indulgent sheet mask, such as Vitamasques Cranberry and Apple Sheet Mask*. Crammed with ingredients that will lock moisture and inject vitamin C into the skin, you can wave goodbye to dry skin and a dull complexion. Fifteen minutes is all you need with this nourishing mask for brighter and beautifully revitalised skin – but feel free to turn this beauty into some much longer you-time.
2. Keep it clean
They say cleanliness is next to godliness, and we always find that a routine that encourages any form of cleansing is particularly nurturing to mind, body and soul. Start incorporating a regular cleanse of your foundation brush, using the nifty Unicorn Cosmetics The Dirty B*tch Cleaner* and you will feel better for it, we promise. Your base – and not to mention your skin - will thank you for it too.
3. Make time for a bath
Ok, a morning bath is a luxury that time-pressed ladies like us simply can’t afford. But even the busiest of women we know – from high-flying CEO’s to rushed-off-their-feet new mums – have the time to fit in a long evening bath, at least once in the week. On its own, a bath calms the nervous system and soothes the mind, but you can magnify its power with the inclusion of some mood-altering aromatics and effective products. Transform bath time by adding Epsom Salts to the tub – the natural form of magnesium is proven to reduce water retention and improve sleep – then lather up with the luxurious suds of Love Beauty and Planet Majestic Moisture Shower Gel* - the hydrating effects of its shea butter and creamy sandalwood will give you the comfort, heat and indulgence your mind and body are craving right now.
4. Focus on how you feel
So here’s a question for you to ponder - do we feel good because we look good or do we look good because we feel good? We would argue that feeling good gives us a confidence, attitude and openness that leaves us looking our most beautiful, and that’s why we’re elevating our self-care game with products designed to make us FEEL nice. Take Systane® Dry Eye Relief Drops* for example - these handy drops soothe, hydrate and provide fast relief from itchy irritated eyes- whether they’re caused by a windy commute to work or too much scrolling through Instagram at bedtime.
5. Incorporate touch
Touch is proven to be a healer, which is why massage is such an incredible self-care tool. Obviously we can’t all afford a daily visit to the masseuse (the dream!) however the simple act of working a really nourishing body moisturizer all over your body can have a similarly healing effect. Choose a moisturizer that contains a hint of self tan – such as B. Tan It’s Love Gradual Tan Body Moisturiser* - and not only will you feel better, you’ll be left with a delicious-looking golden glow that, let’s face it, will make you look just as amazing as you feel.
* included in your November Roccabox