If you feel like it’s been a long winter and you’re wanting to up your beauty game, you’re not alone.
Especially if you’re looking for an escape from the everyday – the balancing act of work and play, while trying to look and feel your best.
Here, experts share their top tips to boost your self-care rituals…
Skincare with benefits
“Skincare is an essential part of my self-care routine,” says Leanna Zaman, beauty specialist at Boots. “It gives me a moment to pause for self-reflection after a busy day whilst my skin soaks up the benefits.”
“If you don’t already have a conscious routine, try dedicating 10 minutes both morning and evening to prep your skin and reconnect with yourself,” suggests Zaman.
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“Your regime doesn’t have to be complicated to be effective – spend a few extra minutes massaging your moisturiser in,” advises Zaman. “Your skin will thank you, too.”
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Dr Mary Sommerlad, consultant dermatologist and Vichy Laboratories spokesperson agrees: “For a fresher skin appearance, I strongly recommend being consistent with an effective, evidence-based skincare routine.”
She also suggests adding in a hydrating serum to plump the appearance of skin and boost radiance. Sommerlad says to then follow on with a moisturiser of choice targeted to your skincare concerns.
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Wellbeing aromas
Don’t forget to consider body care as well as skincare, advises Zaman. “We’re seeing more consumers hack their dopamine levels by elevating their everyday beauty basics with mood-boosting scents, textures and colours too.”
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She suggests trying scented body butter and lotions with uplifting aromas. “Fragrance is a key part of experiencing a product as it can transport us to another place, time or mindset.”
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Shower and bath care
“Try switching up your daily routine in small ways to incorporate more wellbeing practices into your week,” suggests Zaman. “For example, simply swapping a morning shower for an indulgent evening bath adds another precious moment of self-care and renewal.”
![Aromatherapy Associates Deep Relax Bath and Shower Oil, £55 for 55ml, Boots](https://www.irishnews.com/resizer/v2/V7W6WVI7ONPNTJCBIOD7TWBKWU.jpg?auth=be2360b650092bcbf8cc2d22156b25442e9e52244042a2f78a4087f6b44d1aef&width=800&height=619)
She says embracing aromatherapy stalwarts like essential oils can help you restore and relax too, transforming your daily soak into a relaxing ritual and spa-like experience.
“I’m also a great believer in every time we have a bath, it’s an opportunity to make it a mini-spa moment!” enthuses Chrissie Rucker OBE, founder of The White Company.
“At the end of a hectic day, you can’t beat a good relaxing soak, even if it’s only for 10 minutes.”
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“Light a favourite scented candle, pour in a lovely bath soak, dim the lights and relax.” She continues. “And then some time massaging in a deeply nourishing body lotion will also leave skin glowing before wrapping yourself in a snuggly robe.”
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Zaman agrees: “Incorporating scented candles into your night-time routine can also help create a tranquil atmosphere, calm your mind and promote rest.”
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She’s a fan of candles infused with sleep-inducing notes of lavender and soothing eucalyptus. “It’s a scent I associate with rest, so it helps me unwind for a perfect night’s sleep.
“These simple sensorial experiences can help you to reframe your mindset, whether you want to uplift or wind down after a long day,” adds Zaman.