Relax and take care of your skin
Anyone else feel like last week was a bit of a blur? I know I’m not alone as many people are either sick in bed, or just feeling a bit “bleh”. I’ve somewhat snapped out of my somber mode. It’s not normally like me but I think I really took the opportunity to relax this Christmas and I might have got just a little bit too used to it.
January in contrast is all about setting goals, getting back into the hustle and being all super woman about everything. To say you still want to relax makes you feel guilty. For me at least, the expectation and anticipation that 2018 is going to result in a brand new me can leave me feeling deflated and is very much counter-productive. Like any time of the year, there will be highs and lows, somedays you’ll feel like you got loads done and other days you’ll be asking yourself, “exactly what did I do today?”
That’s why I’ve been taking this post card quite literally – RELAX! In fact, it’s when I relax, not just in body, but in mind too, that I get stuff done – like revamp my website. It was actually a spur of the moment decision but the relaxed me took it in my stride and even though I’ve got further adjustments to make, I’ve decided to just take it one step at a time.
Of course in my quest to take regular time-outs, I’ve used it as an opportunity to take care of my skin. I spend a lot of time and money sourcing products for the face from moisturisers, to facial oils and serums, that the rest of my skin gets neglected. Taking that little bit of extra time whether it’s first thing in the morning, or before I go to bed, to moisturise my body makes the world of difference; not only does it keep my skin hydrated and smelling nice, but it’s über relaxing too.
A new addition for me is the Ouai Rose Hair & Body Oil. Now, although this is multi-purpose, I actually prefer it for use on the body only. Aware that I appear to be the only one, on my hair this doesn’t quite do the trick even though I so desperately wanted it to. I found it too oily for the hair and yet if I use less, my hair doesn’t have that smooth feel. Hmmm…probably something for me to revisit again as there is also one that is available for the hair only.
On the body, however, this is perfect for me. It absorbs quickly without that overly greasy feel and leaves my skin feeling very nourished. As it’s an oil, I love using it after a bath or shower as it absorbs into the skin much better that way and it’s even light enough to use on the hands throughout the day. The scent is of course heavenly – perfect.
If like me you love anything almonds, then you’ll love the L’Occitane Almond Supple Skin Body Oil. Much sweeter smelling, this is slightly thicker and oilier so to speak and one I use when my skin is feeling especially dry. It’s one of L’Occitane’s best sellers and for good reason since it leaves the skin feeling soft and supple with a lovely sheen to it afterwards. The scent lingers for ages too which is always a bonus.
I’m so glad I managed to get my hands on the Laura Mercier Les Petits Soufflés – Soufflé Body Crème Collection in the Boxing Day sale at Space NK. Always a favourite during Christmas, this consists of the cutest miniature versions of all six from the collection and they really are a delectable treat. Unfortunately, this set is out of stock but I’ve linked the full-sized, regular version above which I will definitely be looking to get once I’ve finished these minis. The only problem is I love them all!
Although these body crèmes are gourmand-based scents including vanilla, pistachio, almond & coconut milk, fresh fig, tarte au citron and crème brûlée, they are tastefully done and not sickly sweet. Rich and creamy in texture, I find myself quite happily taking sniffs throughout the day.
Fresh fig and tarte au citron will be great to use in the spring and summer as they have a fresher scent, whilst the others are really complimenting my preference for stronger and muskier scents this winter. I never quite thought I’d like smelling like crème brûlée, but I really do!
Lastly, a more affordable option is the Ted Baker Blush Pink Body Lotion. I spoke about this in a recent post here and it’s still something I turn to as it is lightweight enough to use on a regular basis.
It performs just as well in the hydration department and the notes of jasmine, neroli, patchouli, sandalwood and musk make for a perfect concoction. There’s a pretty in pink vibe to Ted Baker Beauty, which no doubt I love. I missed out on the Christmas gift sets but it’s noted for next time.
Whether you call it pampering yourself or adopting a bit of self-care, there’s something very therapeutic about taking care of your skin and beautiful smelling lotions and body oils always give me that feel-good factor.
So what beauty rituals do you adopt to make you feel good? x
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