These days we all need to grab enjoyment wherever we can. Recent studies show that most of us are either stressed or extremely stressed as a direct result of the pandemic.
And it’s no wonder – despite life slowly returning to normality, many of the pastimes that brought us joy have been restricted intermittently for an entire year.
Women on the whole have been more adversely affected by the numerous lockdowns than men, with many citing a skewed work-life balance. Whether we’re still working from the kitchen table, anxious about our finances or taking on more than our fair share of the housework and childcare, it’s unsurprising that 64 per cent of the women in Britain are thought to be suffering from extreme tiredness or fatigue.
The old adage ‘enjoy the little things’ has never been more relatable than it is right now. Because even though our daily pressures and responsibilities have risen to new heights, it’s absolutely imperative that we invest in our own wellbeing.
Thankfully, turning a twice-daily skincare routine into a bona fide selfcare ritual is something we can all make time for. So from decadently nourishing serums to massage tools that can help you relax before bedtime, here’s how to take five minutes of ‘me-time’ to improve your stress levels and enhance your complexion…
STEP ONE: Cleanse and calm The uncertainty of the world – and not to mention mask wearing – has sent our complexions haywire. So if you’re finding your skin’s a little bit angry (who can blame it?), Science of Skin Cleanse No. One, £15.99, will help you restore balance and calm in no time. Its vegan-friendly foaming formula contains a host of actives such as spot-busting salicylic acid, redness-reducing green tea and pore-shrinking witch hazel.
STEP TWO: Tone it up Contrary to popular opinion, a toner isn’t always necessary – especially if your other products are doing their job properly. But if you’d like to use one for sensory purposes (essential for self-care), we recommend SkinCeuticals Equalizing Toner, £30, which calms the skin and doesn’t contain alcohol. Simply spritz and you’re done.
STEP THREE: Moisture plus A serum or facial oil, depending on your skin type, is a great first step to nourish your skin. You can mix it up from day to night: hyaluronic acid is great for an overnight moisture boost while vitamin C will give your complexion a glow. For stressed out skin that needs rescuing, The Organic Pharmacy’s aptly named Skin Rescue Serum, £39, contains a super-soothing blend of healing tamanu oil, calming chamomile and cooling rose oil. Alternatively, if you suffer from dehydrated skin, Bobbi Brown Intensive Skin Radiance Emulsion, £55, is for you. Loaded with hyaluronic acid and cordyceps, just one pump delivers multi-level hydration for instantly visible results.
STEP FOUR: Peace and nourishment The right moisturiser will not only beautify your skin, but can also elevate your mood. Dr Hauschka is calling its new Balancing Day Lotion, £26.50, “happiness in a bottle” thanks to its soothing botanical blend. With extracts of anthyllis, field horsetail and nasturtium to support the skin and soothe blemishes, it leaves skin moisturised, clear and glowing. Likewise, investing in a luxe nightcream will bring extra joy to your bedtime routine. Olivanna Intense Repair Night Cream, £96, contains collagen-boosting organic cotton thistle extract and proven powerhouse botanicals to revive your skin while you sleep.
STEP FIVE: Time out Taking time for a massage will upgrade your regime into a self-care ritual. The gentle action of using the Kitsch Rose Quartz Crystal Facial Roller, £29.67, will increase blood circulation, and in turn, lift, sculpt and tighten the skin. Meanwhile, if you’re feeling flush, the selfheating Foreo UFO Smart Mask Treatment, £249, device combines advanced dermal technologies with exclusive Korean mask formulas for a decadent facial treatment in seconds. Designed to be used with the Foreo mini sheet masks, its vibrating sonic waves strangely bring over a sense of zen. Alternatively, the Magnitone SteamAhead, £30, provides a deeply relaxing spa-at-home experience for more than half the price and beats the old school method of using a towel and boiling water.
STEP SIX: Going balmy For a heightened sensory experience, supplement your skincare routine with a balm containing essential oils. Try massaging Lab Tonica’s invigorating POW balm, £12, into your pressure points if you’re in need of a pick-me-up before a long day ahead. For a night-time alternative, Skin and Tonic Calm Balm, £13, contains lavender, chamomile and calendula to soothe your skin and aid your sleep.
STEP SEVEN: Final touches No skincare routine is complete without a slick of lip balm. Dr. Bronner’s Organic Lip Balm, £3.75, in Peppermint cools the skin, clears sinuses and sharpens your mind so you’re ready for the day. Meanwhile, you can improve the results of your evening skincare ritual by investing in a decadent silk pillowcase. Gentler than polyester or cotton, the Mane Silk Pillowcase, £40, is handmade from high quality fibres to minimise wrinkles and frizzy hair.
Feature image c/o Uoma.
