If anything good has come out of the coronavirus pandemic, it’s that people are now paying more attention in terms of taking care of themselves. This has translated into not only an increase in exercise and other physical activities, but also in the use of skincare products. The NPD Group reports that almost 40% of users expanded their routine from merely cleansing and moisturizing to include more products, such as exfoliators and masks.
If you’re wondering what the value is in skincare routines in the middle of a health crisis, it’s important to understand that it’s actually pretty good for your mental health! Here are some reasons why.
It offers structure and stability.
Because of the pandemic, life has become a little less predictable, and we’ve had to adjust just about everything in our lives in the name of health. As a result of lockdowns and safety measures, days tend to blend into each other. It’s no wonder everybody feels worried and concerned about everything these days.
To resolve these issues, you need structure as well as stability, which you can achieve through routines and habits that can occupy and relax your mind at the same time. A great way to begin is through a simple skincare routine. Establishing a skincare routine can act as an anchor within your day. In an uncertain world, consistently doing your skincare routine can make you feel more accomplished and grounded.
It instantly improves your mood.
The mere act of using your fingers to apply skincare products and massage your face promotes blood circulation and relaxes your face, helping put you in a state of relaxation. That happens no matter what your skincare products may be!
So, create a routine with products that you enjoy using. Cleanse your skin with a warm wash cloth, massage your face with a silky moisturizer, or take the time to apply a mask. You can even light some candles and play relaxing music to give you that spa atmosphere. Apart from the actual at-home treatment, your mood can also be improved just by planning it. Although you are just anticipating a happy and relaxing event, you will already feel fulfilled.
It is an act of kindness towards yourself.
Taking the extra time to care for your skin can also help you feel more confident, especially if you’ve had a history of blemishes and skin imperfections that hamper your self-esteem. In fact, a Glossybox survey noted that 75% of women exhibit more confidence with their skin, despite the lockdowns. They now leave the house wearing little to no makeup! This isn’t surprising, as after all, when your complexion is healthy and radiant, you are more confident, and you have a more positive outlook on life.
Moreover, by personalizing your skincare routine, you are getting to know yourself even more. Yes, you might begin with simply learning about your skin type, but over time, you also discover what works for you best, and you even adjust your habits around it. Similarly, having a good skincare routine for sensitive skin can even help you sleep better by addressing itchiness and protecting your skin from the environmental aggressors around. But more than reducing redness and boosting your moisture barrier, all this sends a powerful message: you’re worth all this time and effort.
It gives an avenue for meditation.
A skincare routine does not only benefit your skin, but it also presents an opportunity for mindfulness and meditation, one of the nine natural therapies you can use for healing. By dedicating a few minutes of your day to day routine, you are giving yourself the chance to be fully present.
Take your time and pay attention to what your senses are picking up. How do the products look, smell, and feel? How do your hands and face feel as they interact with the products? In addition, because skincare products take time to be effective, their application shouldn’t be rushed either. Aside from being attentive to your senses, you are also reminded to slow down and be patient, allowing you to connect with yourself.
Indeed, a great skincare routine can be a lifesaver in this time of increased anxiety. Despite it being a simple act, its repetition, physical touch, and end-of-day reflection brings comfort. So if you wish to turn your day around, build a simple skincare routine — and let it work its magic.
This piece was written and contributed by guest expert Jennifer Parkinson. Thanks, Jennifer!
