During lockdown, set aside some time to pamper as you hunker down and focus on self-care. Take a break, unwind and either indulge in a relaxing home treatment, or tend to any beauty maintenance that needs addressing.
We've rounded up five ways you can treat yourself and your body, because making an effort to look and feel good is the ultimate mood booster.
Face masks
No – we’re not talking about the face masks you’re seeing everywhere right now thanks to a certain virus that shall not be named. We’re talking about the fun kind. While catching up on your favourite Netflix shows, pop on a new-generation face mask. If you thought only those with acne or oily skin could benefit from a mask, think again – they can actually work wonders for all skin types.
Clay masks are one of the most popular types of mask, mainly featuring three types of clay - charcoal, white, red, pink or green – each boasting unique benefits targeted to specific skin concerns. Not all areas of the face have the same issues though. For instance, you may have a problem area on your chin but everywhere is relatively blemish free, if not a little dry. “Multi-masking” allows you to zone in on where your skin needs help most. If uneven skin tone and dullness is a concern on your cheeks then apply a brightening mask and if it’s inflamed or breakout prone in other areas apply a charcoal or soothing mask.
Not sure where to start? Try the L’Oreal Pure Clay Mini Mask Kit, $7.99, which includes a Purity, Detox and Glow mask.
Run a scented bath
Dim the lights, run a bath and do your best to de-stress and decompress, adding your favourite essential oil or bath salts to soak away your worries.
Essential oils have been used for over 6,000 years to help improve health and mood. Choose a blend designed to provide natural support in times of tension and pressure, ECO Calm & Destress, ECO Lavender Pure Essential Oil or ECO Dream Drops (available in store now or online soon!). Or for a more targeted soak, pour some Epsom Salts into a warm bath, which are renowned for its natural physical and mental benefits. Celebrities rave about Dr Teal’s Epsom Salts for relieving muscle tension, inflammation and even calming the mind.
Light a candle
Spark up that candle you’ve been saving for guests to create a sense of calm for yourself. Your environment smelling great will lift your spirits too. Look for relaxing scents or those that evoke fond memories.
Teabags to the rescue
Apply brewed and cooled green tea bags to eyes. They’ll feel incredibly soothing on tired peepers, while the antioxidants in the tea work to reduce swelling. If you’re feeling particularly puffy, pop them into the fridge for an hour or so before applying.
Dry body brushing
Dry brushing - maybe it's one of those things you've been meaning to take up but just haven't got around to? We hear you, but now is the perfect time to incorporate it into your daily routine. Dry brushing has been utilised in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries for its many benefits.
According to Healthline it can:
- Stimulate the lymphatic system to drain out toxins
- Exfoliate the skin
- Increase circulation and energy
- Help to break down cellulite
How to dry brush: Do it 5-10 minutes every day but start out with 2-3 times a week to allow your skin to adjust. Make sure that your skin and your brush are both completely dry. You can do it any time of the day but first thing in the morning is ideal so you can maximise the energising effect. Grab yourself a brush and stroke it all over your skin towards the heart. Try starting at your feet and use upward sweeping motions to brush over your limbs, and circular motions for your abdominal region, armpits and groin.
Main image: Free People