Establishing a Pampering and Beauty Routine

Life can become chaotic and we can sometimes forget to take care of ourselves.  This was especially true for me when I was in school full-time.  I have found it is useful to schedule a consistent pampering and beauty routine in my day, week, and month to help me feel and look my best, otherwise, I get off track.  It's amazing how much better you feel after you do this for yourself, isn't it?  I've recently shared my favourite beauty essentials and today, my routine.

Daily:  I devotedly remove my makeup every evening, a perfectly cleansed face is most important for me.  After removing all make-up, I wash with salicylic acid facial wash, tone with pure rose water, apply Retin-A Micro, a good eye cream, and hydrating moisturizer.  I don't wash my face in the morning after my shower, a quick, cool rinse is enough.  I wait five minutes before for applying Glycolic Acid, eye cream, wait another 10 minutes to apply an SPF.

I also take various vitamins and calcium.  You should check with your doctor about which ones are best for you.

A few times per week:  I use my Clarisonic brush, especially helpful with peeling that can happen as a result of the Retin-A Micro.  I also use a Glycolic Acid body wash a few times a week.  Mostly because it's difficult for me not use my favourite scented body washes.

Dry brushing is said to tone skin, fight cellulite, give a youthful glow, and rejuvenate your lymphatic system.  I love the way my skin feels after I do this and always add a few drops of essential oils.  One of the most relaxing things I do is take a warm bubble bath with a glass of bubbly and a good book.  I try to remember to shut the door, otherwise, I have two French Bulldogs swimming with me.  Although they're happy as can be, that can take away the relaxing part.

To soothe a chapped kisser, pierce a Vitamin E capsule with a pin and dab on the contents on your lips.  You can do this nightly but I find a few times per week is enough for me.

Weekly {I try to do this on Sunday evenings}:  I sleep in Kérastase Nutritive Masquintense Fine.  Although this works fine, I'm currently searching for something new.  

Manicures and pedicures, and I always bring my own tools and polish.  Are you familiar with the Ped Egg?  This does wonders for my feet to keep them soft and smooth.  One of the best inventions, ever.  After I polish my feet, slather with a moisturizing creme {Eucerin, Nivea, cocoa butter} or vaseline, I cover with thick socks.  For me, this works best before bed.

Self tanner ~ I do this at home or at a spa for special occasions.

Monthly:  Massages are a great way to relax muscles.  I notice when I'm in school that my muscles tend to get stiff and sore from lack of sleep and stress.

Eyebrow wax and shaping.  Eyebrows are one of our most defining features and it's incredible the difference they can make!  They frame the face, and, when shaped properly, make the eyes look brighter and the cheekbones more defined.  Unless you are an expert, this is left to the pros.  I admit, I'm a menace to the eyebrow society and only touch up when need to.

6 months:  Teeth cleaning and whitening.

   For salon appointments, I make them 6-8 weeks in advance so I'm able to get my preferred day and time of preference.  My hairstylist is a magician with colour and quickly books up so this is a must for me.

I'm a huge fan of coconut oil.  I'm currently using it in new beauty .  I will keep you posted in the coming weeks on ways I'm going to incorporate it into my routine!

Do you have a routine or favourite tips?

xx,

B

If you would like help in creating a home you love, please contact me at Brenda@atelierdhautedesign.com

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