Using your Skincare to Create an Oasis within Chaos
I always strive to create that oasis-like environment in the treatment room. This is my favorite corner in the space.
Pandemic or not, sometimes we just need an escape. We need somewhere we can transport ourselves to where we can breathe, a place to escape from whatever is not serving us - be it anxiety, fear, sadness, confusion, or stress. Having a physical place at home to go to when we need that place of tranquility and zen is especially important right now as we self-isolate. Having a daily ritual within a designated space will allow you to transition from your work life to your personal life. Why not use your skincare ritual and a little at-home oasis to take you to that place of calm?
While it’s so easy to use our phone, computer or T.V. as an escape, think about how the screen time makes you feel versus how you feel when you come out of a treatment like a facial or massage - relaxed, renewed, at peace, maybe a little lighter. Sure, it’s easier when you get to lay on the treatment table and let someone else do the work, but it is possible, even during these times, to achieve those same feelings at home with the use of your skincare ritual and a dedicated space.
This idea of an at-home oasis is what first sparked my curiosity into becoming an esthetician. I realized how combining my skincare ritual with a calming environment at home could be so impactful on my mental state and overall well-being. It helped to dissolve my feelings of stress and anxiety and brought on feelings of peace and harmony, even while in a tiny apartment. In order to do that, I relied on a few things to help set the scene. Here are a few ways that will help you create a zen-like space at home while you nurture your skin:
My own little at home oasis is in my bathroom. A small counter corner works just fine if you’re tight on space.
decide where you want to have your oasis
You don’t need an extra room or a sanctuary-like backyard to create an at home oasis. You just have to pick a spot in your home that makes you feel calm and collected. That might look like a comfortable chair near a window, a sunny spot outside or my favorite - the bathroom. A place with a door might be especially helpful if you have trouble finding a quiet place at home. I also suggest having a plant or a little vase with flowers nearby to bring the outdoors in.
start with a clean space
Clearing the physical clutter allows for the clearing of mental clutter so you can step into your oasis with a feeling of renewal from the start. If you start with a clean space, there will be less room for distraction and more energy available to put forth on restoring your inner peace and balance. A little reorganizing can also go a long way. Now might be the perfect time to decide which products are past their prime and ready for reusing or recycling. Display your products in a way that’s appealing and make sure you can see everything so that it gets used - especially the organic stuff.
give it some good energy
Now that you’ve decided where to host your oasis, bring in things that offer positive energy. Crystals are a way to instantly bring in good energy. Sage smudging is great if you have decent ventilation, light a candle or two or three (I love using tea light candles in Himalayan salt holders), and put on some soothing music. Music is the only thing that you should be using your device for. If you can’t resist the urge to check your phone, leave it out or turn it on do not disturb.
have a plan
Don’t put pressure on yourself to create an entire at home facial when you feel the need to escape. Just start with the basics of your normal skincare ritual and then add in whatever you feel like your skin is craving. Set out the products you want to use, prep your mask and have your towel ready. Make sure to set aside the time for your ritualistic escape, just like you would set aside time for an appointment. Here’s what I suggest starting with for your skin:
Cleansing - with intention. Cleansing is non-negotiable. Even if you’re self-isolating inside, you still need to cleanse. Spend at least one to two minutes really massaging your cleanser into your skin and wash the day away. Spritz a hydrating toner or hydrosol on your skin right afterwards and press it in.
Masking - optional, but probably necessary. While your skin is still just slightly damp from your toner, apply your mask of choice. A mask would ideally be applied once per week. A general rule of thumb is to apply your mask for the directed amount of time and NOT to let it dry out. Keep it moist with a damp washcloth or hydrosol. If you’re looking to exfoliate, try this one from Botnia Skincare. Bonus points for following up with their hydrating mask.
Breathe - not optional :) While you’re masking, let stress, fear, or whatever undesirable feelings you have dissolve and melt away. Grab your book, a cup of herbal tea (I recommend prepping those before you start your ritual so you don’t have to leave your space), hop in the bath, or just bask in the moment that you’re giving to yourself. Take some deep breaths and stay present.
Massage - a healthy lymphatic flow = healthy immune system. When it’s time to remove your mask, make sure you have your face cream or oil to massage into your skin to lock in hydration. Start massaging with your décolleté, then gently massage your neck and move up your face, aiming to bring everything out and up.
go easy on yourself but be consistent
The last thing you want to do is add more stress. Don’t put pressure on yourself to do all of the things in one sitting or to make your space look picture perfect. Just make sure you show up for yourself daily, get in a good cleanse and some moisturizer and squeeze in a facial massage during those two steps at the very least.
Skincare is supposed to be fun, so if it ever stops feeling like it, take a step back, simplify and know that your skin is a very intelligent organ that will take care of you if you take a little care of it. If you have any questions on your skincare routine, the products mentioned above, or just want to keep the skincare conversation going, please reach out! As always, I am here to support you on your skincare journey.