It's been a whirlwind few weeks with the news of COVID19 and its impact on our day-to-day lives around the world. With many of us staying indoors over the weeks to come, we've certainly been doing our best to enjoy the the extra time we have to indulge in some longer self-care routines, test new approaches to our skincare regimes, and overall trying to see the silver-lining in all of this.
A face mask may not solve everything, but we've always believed in creating small moments of joy and relaxation through self-care in times like these. Below, we share some of our favourite small-but-mighty measures to maintain our overall sense of well-being.
For an All-Over Renewed Feeling: The Body Trio
If you can spare time for a longer shower, we are big fans of a three-step body treatment routine. Taking the time to cleanse, exfoliate and moisturize all the way down to your toes just gives a refreshed and renewed feeling that can definitely boost your mood. We're big fans of our Polish, Cleanser and Silk trio (cosmeceutical body care takes it one huge step further) because not only does the line smell and feel incredible, it also helps keep skin clear and healthy.
To Keep Moving: At-Home Workouts
Gyms might be closed, but that doesn't mean you have to stop moving. In fact, keeping the blood flowing and your muscles in action is an excellent way to stay positive (and keep your skin in peak condition). Now, we're not suggesting you have to get a major sweat on everyday, but even a 10-minute stretching exercise or short walk around your block can be a huge help. Consider browsing YouTube for easy at-home workouts, yoga sessions or stretching exercises, or try a fitness app. Our friends at MOVE Fitness are offering at-home workout videos on Instagram, and influencers like Sasha Exeter and Sarah Taylor are also sharing lots of at-home inspiration.
For a Facial Refresh: #MaskandChill
We don't know about you, but we're definitely clocking more hours than usual on our Netflix accounts. Taking a few minutes to apply a face mask before you start the next episode of your favourite show takes the relaxation factor up a notch, and does wonders for your skin! Our mask in particular has collagen, clastin and vitamins A, E, C, D3, K & B complex - it puts in the work to keep skin clear, happy and healthy. For an extra dose of fun - if you're home with kids, make it a shared moment and have them apply the mask!
For Trying Something New: Break Out the Retinol
For the skincare obsessed (like us), this can actually be a great time to introduce retinol or increase the strength you currently use. With limited sun exposure, the freedom to wear less makeup and fewer places to be, there is more flexibility to work your way up to seriously using this beloved hero product. Why retinol? It's a gentle-yet-effective exfoliant, it helps with treating fine lines, and can even treat breakouts. It's clinically proven to work wonders on all skin types, and time and time again it's recommended as an essential step in any skincare routine.
That being said, some people need to work up their tolerance as too much too fast can result in irritation and peeling. That's why now is such a great time to slowly incorporate it if its new to you or take your percentage up a notch - just remember to start slow and small (1-3 times a week to start in the evening, then work your way up to every other night if you don't see irritation). Our Retinol Rescue Routine blog covers all you need to know about adding this in and monitoring your usage effectively.
What are you doing to create moments of joy and relaxation at home? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!