A Serene Space
For Dr Kaycee Reyes of Luminisce skin and laser clinic, a quiet place at home where one can relax and take care of his or her body is essential. Here, she tells Tatler how to set up the perfect spa at home
With pressing responsibilities, incessant rings of alarm clocks, buzzing phones, piles of emails and a long list of to-dos, the phrase “serenity is the new luxury” is truer now more than ever. This Dr Kaycee Reyes, a preventive medicine doctor and dermatologist from Luminisce, know only too well. Her advice? “When you get the time all for yourself, treasure it the way you treasure the most precious things in life.”
With this advice comes her helpful tips on creating your own personal space at home where you can relax and rejuvenate.
According to Reyes, a serene space needs good ventilation combined with other relaxing elements such as comforting beverages, books and music. “Skincare, doing your make-up, or even preparing your wardrobe is part of self-care. As a preventive medicine doctor and dermatologist, I would recommend for a spa or selfcare at home a very nice place where there is an ample amount of ventilation,” she starts. “As you know, our country is not really cool so anything that can alleviate the heat would be relaxing.”
She adds that a nice cup of your favourite beverage should also be nearby. “Have your own [beverage] corner. Some people are happy with wine, whiskey, coffee, or even tea,” she shares. “It would also be nice to have a little book nook and music in the place. Music helps calm the brain and can also be used for meditation.”
DON’T FORGET YOUR SKIN
What is a nice spa day at home without the aid of your favourite skincare regimen? Reyes personally uses products from her clinic; one of her favourites is Glow Fuel C, a fast-absorbing serum powered by Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, the most stable Vitamin C derivative.
“This topical vitamin C is an antioxidant that combats the free radicals we get from polluted spaces and stress. The Glow Fuel C, when used regularly, has
a brightening effect on the face,” she discloses. “It was especially formulated to brighten up the face because nowadays, not everyone wants a white face, but just to have a healthy-looking skin.”
Another of Reyes’ favourite skincare regimen is the Coquille Peel. Before the Covid-19 pandemic struck the Philippines, this step was usually done in her clinic; today, fans of the service can take the items at home and use them in their personal spas.
The Coquille Peel has the power to bring back the skin’s healthy and youthful glow. Using Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA’S) derived from natural fruit and food extracts, this skincare step effectively normalises the skin’s natural exfoliating and hydrating properties by shedding rough skin and restoring moisture levels
“[The Coquil Peel] is the standard treatment that we give in the clinic, so what it does you just put it on the face and wait for three to five minutes and then remove it then it’s okay. So, I advise patients to do this at least once a month.”
Reyes views self-care differently. For her, this essential step means being comfortable in the thought that you are taking good care of your body by doing things that positively affect it in the long run.
“Self-care doesn’t mean that always being comfortable. If being comfortable is the essence of self-care, then I would just be watching TV and sleeping all day. Self-care is more of being aware of what should be done for the body,” she concludes.