Submit your skincare questions to Dr. Agnes, CEO of Herborium and natural medicine expert
Now that the hustle of the holidays is behind us, many are left with our energy, complexions and bank accounts drained. Fortunately, treating ourselves to a little rest and relaxation can be as easy as wrapping up in a robe and heading to the bathroom or kitchen.
Creating an at-home mini spa session can be easier than most people realize. It only takes a little creativity, a few basic household items, and less than an hour carved out of the day. You’ll experience bliss on a budget and give yourself the gift of some much needed “me time” before tackling all that 2016 has in store.
Any or all of these easy, at-home remedies can make for a relaxing experience, perfect for calming the mind, body, and skin. NOTE: AcnEase® users, keep in mind these tips are not going to get rid of your acne, but will assist while you’re on your treatment.
Soak your skin and achy muscles with a salt bath. Epsom salt has long been used to treat sore and achy muscles and joints, and the healing properties of magnesium sulfate apply to the surface of the skin as well. Naturally anti-bacterial in its ability to purge moisture from bacteria, Epsom salt can also dry the skin of excess oils, which is especially great for anyone experiencing breakouts on the back or chest. A handful also works as a wonder exfoliator, and at only a few bucks a bag, you can afford to give your skin the extra attention.
Clean pores with hot steam. Creating a mini DIY steam room is as easy as boiling a pot of water! Bring four to eight cups of water to a boil and empty into a large bowl. For a more aromatic experience, consider adding dried lavender or your favorite herbs or essential oils. Drape a large towel over the back of your head and bring your face as close to the water as is comfortable for about five minutes (please be careful and make sure you don’t get so close that the steam burns your skin). The steam from the water will begin to open your pores, which can help loosen clogged debris (which can lead to acne).
Purify with a calming treatment mask. As we have stated in earlier blog posts by answering the question is chocolate bad for acne, not all chocolate is bad for an acne-prone complexion. Dark chocolate can provide a wealth of benefits both inside and outside the body. In addition to the antioxidants found in cacao, which can result in a healthy glow in the skin’s appearance, the sweet scent of chocolate can actually trigger the release of serotonin, producing a calming effect on the brain and alleviating stress from the entire body. Creating an at-home chocolate mask is simple and when paired with the lactic acid found in organic yogurt and cream, you can satisfy your milk chocolate craving too, even if it is on the surface of the skin! Please note that if you have a dairy allergy or are trying to temporarily eliminate dairy from your diet, using milk topically on your skin will not affect your condition. Antibacterial honey and exfoliating oatmeal provide an added bonus for acne-prone skin.
Mix ingredients in a bowl until a smooth, thick consistency is reached. Apply to skin, removing with a warm washcloth after 15-20 minutes.
Tighten up with an herbal astringent. When most people think of calming agents, lavender and chamomile immediately come to mind. Both can be used to calm the skin, and help temporarily tighten pores.
Steep tea bags in water, adding oil once bags have been removed. Allow to cool, and then dip a cotton ball in the solution, gently dabbing on clean skin.
Emulating a spa-like setting is all about the atmosphere. Opting to treat yourself to a DIY spa day is extra relaxing in a quiet home, so try to make some time when you won’t be disturbed. Soft music or freshly scented candles can transform any bathroom into a temporary tranquil paradise, and hot herbal tea or a tall glass of cucumber water can serve as a hydrating treat to enhance the experience. All of the recommended DIY spa treatments can be done together or separately. They are all mild and should not cause any discomfort to your skin. However, if you should experience any discomfort, stop the treatment immediately and gently wash your skin to remove any residue.
Whenever we post our tips designed to provide you with a little extra pampering, most of our AcnEase® users say they don’t have the time to fit this stuff in! It’s important not to stress about trying to find time but to try to keep this top of mind so that if you can squeeze in an hour of pampering, you’ll remember to do so.
Our AcnEase® users are also lucky to have total peace of mind and the opportunity to get the best complexion possible because they are on a treatment that actively works from the inside 24/7 to get rid of their acne. So treating your mind and body to some extra love and kindness is a wonderful supplement to a hard-working regimen like AcnEase®.
We want to hear from you! What are some of your favorite at-home treatments? How do you pamper yourself and your skin when you have a few minutes? Tell us in the comments below!