The DIY Pamper:
Sometimes it’s ten minutes, sometimes it’s more, but taking some time out to take care of what your body needs is vital, even when you’re in the comfort of your own home. Whether it’s incorporating a hydrating mask into your night routine, using a sleep spray before bedtime or carrying out a regular head-to-toe pampering session, taking the time to look after yourself at home is incredibly beneficial.
Scroll through any social media app on a Sunday and you will see a plethora of product postings with the hashtag ‘sunday-facial’. At-home facials have become hugely popular due to the improvement in the quality of budget brands and the availability of expert advice at the click of a button. As a new mum, chances are you won’t be able to dedicate your Sunday to a salon-inspired facial but taking some time (even as little as ten minutes) every week to treat yourself will not only calm your post-pregnancy skin, it will help relax your mind. Take the This Works Deep Sleep range for example, a beauty editor favourite and a brilliant aid for sleep deprived mums. The collection, which includes candles, pillow spray and bath soaks, contains essential oils like lavender, chamomile and vetivert which are designed to relax the mind and body. If time is not on your side, swap your regular shower gel with
This Works Deep Sleep Shower Gel,
€19.50. The scent is heavenly while the moisturising formula softens and protects your skin.
It’s no secret that hormonal
changes during pregnancy can make your skin dry so if you can find the time for a weekly boost of hydration your skin will thank you for it. Designed to treat very dry skin, e.l.f Hydrating Gel Mask, €14.95 is a brilliant addition to your beauty arsenal. It contains aloe, coconut and chia seed which helps cool and soothe tight and dry skin.
If your skin is incredibly dry, follow with a nourishing face oil like Urban
Veda Soothing Facial Oil, €39.99. It’s designed to diminish redness and harmoinse sensitive skin thanks to its mix of sandalwood, avocado and sea buckthorn. If you live in a house with young children, the idea of taking a bath is often unimaginable (because you live in a house with young children) or undesirable (because your bath is filled with toys that look like they belong in a Disney movie). However, if you can put said sea creatures to one side, try to take a relaxing bath. Pop in Lush April Showers bath bomb, €5.95, and you’ll forget your surroundings right away. This bath bomb is designed to lift your spirits thanks to its rich ingredients of cedarwood and cypress oils. It also contains cocoa butter, which will help soften and soothe your skin.