GROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT
Whether you’re prepping skin for the sun, or eradicating signs of winter, these are the products will make you look - and feel - brand new
Ah, the agony and the ecstasy of a beauty routine in isolation. Gel nails have been prized from their beds, and are starting to regain some rigid permanance. Unwanted hair has assumed its natural position, jubilant it won’t meet a wax strip for a while. And on account of the recent and forthcoming sunshine, skin that’s been cloaked under tights and trousers is set to make an appearance, whether you’re outdoors or in. If the latter - nod, find the nearest window, and stick something - anything! - out of it and say you too, have seen the ‘indoorphins’ memes circulating social media (a portmanteau of indoor and endorphins, of course).
Yes, we hear your justification, that there’s no-one around to see you, so none of this really matters, but practicing self-care via body-care proves instrumental in locating lost mojos. And while we don’t need lockdown to remind us that the idea of being summer body ready is indeed defunct, there’s never been a better time to prove it.
Exfoliate, it’s cathartic…
Forget the face bit. It’s just as good for your body. Made from Japanese leaves and bamboo (seriously), it works to gently smooth and polish skin, and has natural antibacterial properties too.
This sings of the seaside. So salty and fresh - a consolation prize that your day trip to Whistable was cancelled. On contact with skin, it melts into a silky foam that makes scrubbing a pleasure.
Moisturise, it’s cosseting...
Rich and decadent, it’s everything life at present, is not. It smells like a spa, sinks in quick, and gives a nice glow. Oh and it claims to firm sagging skin after four weeks of use. Just as well after all this sedentary nothingness.
Yes, Drunk Elephant has branched into body (and hair) care. The jumbo white bottles and coloured lids are a feast for your eyes and limbs. Expect brighter, more balanced skin
Tan, it’s enlightening…
Formulated for all skin types and tones, it’s been specially formulated not to do that dry discoloured thing that nearly all tans do, five days in. Reassuringly expensive, there’s all the goodness of a regular Sisley moisturiser, too.
Fake the fruits of some outdoor space. A balcony? Or even better, those two most delicious words right now, 'a garden'? Steady on. Lightweight and laced with vitamins and minerals, it’s better for you than actual tanning, anyway.
Shower, it’s necessary…
Imagine a world where you can filter out the crap. Farfetched? Let’s try again. Imagine a shower where you can filter out the crap. Ah, yes. This. To soften water, and get rid of excess minerals simply stick the head on the end of your regular hand-held shower (there are wall mounted heads too), and pop a serotonin-spiking shot in the end, et voila. You will emerge someone who will not hiss at your flatmate for breathing too loud.
VitaClean Handheld Silver Shower Head, £59.99, & Lemon and Mango Vitamin C shot, £11.99
You know the shtick about aromatherapy, right? That it can have a profound effect on your mood, and by proxy - surely - your efficiency at your laptop, the stove and on your yoga mat. A zesty cocktail of coconut and peppermint.