Back when I started my website in 2017, I wanted it to have a tagline that read ‘self-care through skincare’. It was (and is) my favorite method of taking care of myself. Spending those moments in the morning and at night giving my skin nourishment through massage and plant products to calm my anxieties isn’t something I’ve ever thought of as vain or selfish. It has always been about the connection I’m making with myself through my skincare, taking note of how I’m feeling and what my skin is trying to communicate.

I do believe there is a lot of power in taking care of yourself through your skincare. For the last 20 years, my own skincare ritual has kept me grounded and made such a difference in my life that I decided to make it my goal to help others in their pursuit of finding the best skincare ritual for them. The only thing that’s really changed is my thought around the term ‘self-care’, as it’s become quite overused as a marketing term in the skincare industry. But in its true essence, it’s about how you take care of and stay connected with yourself.

Taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your skin. In fact, it’s really one in the same. Sometimes it’s easy to forget that your skin is an organ - a large (actually, the largest) and complex one that deserves all of the attention it can get, same as your other organs. When you connect with your skin and see it as a communicator and teacher, it can show you things that may lead to a deeper exploration of your health and well-being.

Your body is always communicating with you, from the food you digest after a meal to how your hormones levels fluctuate to how hydrated you are. If something is out of alignment, your body will send you a signal and often times it will show in your skin. That can come through as acne, eczema, rosacea, psoriasis, dullness, puffiness, dehydration, dryness, or wrinkles. Having a skincare ritual enables you to take note of your skin health, which is a glimpse into your overall health.

Your skincare ritual does not have to be a costly, time consuming part of your day that feels daunting. Simplicity almost always triumphs over complexity, especially when you use quality plant-based skincare that is going to with your unique skin, not against it. Skincare isn’t just reserved for your products either. It’s also getting enough rest, good quality sleep, drinking water, eating nourishing foods, playing with your dog or cat, going for a walk, doing nothing, reading a book…the list goes on.

I believe caring for your skin is a great way to regain the true essence of taking care of one’s self (aka ‘self-care’). It allows you to slow down, become more present, and offer yourself compassion. It can help activate your parasympathetic nervous system, where your body’s cortisol levels drop and your skin can start the healing and regenerating process. All of these factors play a role in the appearance of your skin as well, showing more vitality from the inside out.

The best part about using skincare as a way to take care of yourself is that you’ll get to start and end your day by focusing on the health of the incredible organ that is your skin. It sets the tone just like music sets an emotional tone to a moment. Even if it’s 5 minutes, it’s the part of showing up daily and connecting with yourself that counts.

If you’re looking to start a new skincare ritual or are looking to elevate your current ritual, I suggest by starting with a holistic esthetician in your area. Booking a consultation or a facial with a consultation will allow a professional to assess your skin and recommend products and practices that will work best for you personally. This will empower you to utilize your skincare at home so that you can nourish your skin in the best possible way.

I’d love to connect with you and help guide you on your skincare journey. You can reach me here or book a service with me in person!