Aaaaahhhhh....Happy Wednesday!!!
I don't know about you, but I am already ready for the weekend!!!! It could be just the time change, but something about this week seems long and almost grueling! However, if you are on spring break, you are probably wishing this week wouldn't slip away so fast!!!
Regardless of what you have going on, nighttime is finally here. Something that I love to do after a long day is to take some time to relax, unwind, and indulge in some luxurious "spa-like" treatments.
Following in the footsteps of my beautiful and vibrant mother, I found that investing in the time and caring for myself has allowed me to be happier, sleep better, and wake up refreshed and ready to conquer the world.
Here are some of my favorite routines and products (a la empties style) that I covet during a crazy week like this one:
Set the Mood
Nothing gets you in the mood for a relaxing evening like burning a gorgeous candle. My favorite scents are those that are fresh and clean. They make me feel light and youthful, which gets me motivate to start the relaxation process.
(Top) Paddywax Library Collection- Jane Austen, (Middle) Voluspa Japonica Collection- French Cade Lavender, Diamond Candle in Midnight Kiss, (Bottom) Paddywax Library Collection- Edgar Allen Poe
Lately, I have been enjoying a coconut wax candle by Voluspa in the French Cade Lavender scent. Besides the fact that it comes in a jar that can be up-cycled to hold your cotton balls, cotton swabs, or makeup brushes, this candle appeals to just about EVERYONE (guys and girls)! It's fresh and masculine like a nice summer cologne, yet feminine and sexy like summer dresses in spring. This brand is not sold at many stores, but you can find this candle and other Voluspa scents at Anthropolgie (www.anthropologie.com), or if you are in the Houston area, Kuhl-Linscomb (2424 West Alabama St.) has a great selection, as well.
If you are in the mood for something more feminine and floral, but still clean, Paddywax has a great collection inspired by classic authors and poets. My friend, Monique, gave me the 2 tins in Jane Austen and Edgar Allen Poe. Amazing!
And, for a more sensual pick, Diamond Candles Midnight Kiss was AMAZING! I'm not too big on warm and sweet scents but this candle was just perfect. There was something about it that boosted my confidence and made me feel very pretty! Side note: Diamond Candles is more than just a candle company with great seasonal scents. There's a ring in every candle!!! (www.diamondcandles.com)
Take it Off and Wash it Away!!!
To be honest, I could do better with this, especially when I am exhausted from a long day, but taking off your make up is an important step any day of the week!
(L to R) Make-Up Forever Sens'Eyes, Lancome Eau Fraiche Douceur, Lancome Bifacil, Yes to Cucumbers Cleasing Wipes
In the last couple of years, cleansing waters have gained much popularity. If you check out the beauty gurus on YouTube, there is some much talk and praise about them. I've tried a few myself, but the best I've ever used is one that was introduced to me 6 years ago when I first started in retail: Lancome's Eau Fraiche Douceur (basically micellar cleansing water). It's so effective and clarifying that under extremely dire circumstances (Um..., accountants during tax season or retail associates during holiday time) you can use this, throw on some moisturizer and go to bed. Normally, however, I pair it with either Lancome's Bifacil eye makeup remover or Make-Up Forever's Sens'Eyes (sold at Sephora) and my face is ready to be washed and moisturized.
When I want to keep things quick and convenient, these Yes to Cucumber wipes are one of my favorite. They remove makeup, even waterproof mascara, very well, they don't burn the eyes or skin, and they soothe and refresh without tightening and leaving you dry. Wipes are fantastic for traveling and you can find these specific kinds in the travel toiletries aisle at Target.
Breathe In, Scrub Down, Get Clean!
On days where I need an extra little pick me up, I trade in my regular body wash for something special.
(L to R) Victoria's Secret Love Spell Body Wash, Lush Happy Hippy, Bath & Body Works Stress Relief Eucalyptus Spearmin Luxury Bath
I found 2 recently that absolutely does the job.
Victoria's Secret Love Spell Body Wash...OMG!!!! This scent has become iconic in the VS collection. I remember being introduced to this in high school, but this fragrance actually resonates strong in my mind of my college days when I was dating my now husband. Everytime I smell it, it sparks my endorphins and I am instantly destressed.
The other one was a recent purchase that didn't last long, in a good way! Lush's Happy Hippy! It's like bathing in fresh grapefruit. The scent is so cleansing and bright ---it's like MAGIC! You feel like you have been recharged with energy! This is perfect if you shower in the morning, but are not a morning person. Happy Hippy will awaken you senses and uplift you from your AM grogginess.
...And nights where I have a little more time, I like to draw a bath with Bath & Body Work's Stress Relief Eucalyptus Spearmint Luxury Bath (...Sleep Lavender Vanilla is also a big fav!). This formula is thick and creamy and bubbles really nicely. Mixed with the warmth from the bathwater, it's a dream!
Moisturize
After a nice hot shower, I find it important to always slather on the lotion. My skin tends to be dry and tight-feeling, so something thick and creamy that I can massage in after drying off is essential!
(L to R) The Body Shop Body Butter in Brazil Nut, Lancome Nutrix Royal Body Intensive Lipid Repair Cream, The Body Shop Body Butter in Almond
The Body Shop, now carried at Ulta, makes some fantastic body butters. They moisturize very well without making you feel slick and oily. There is a wide array of scent ranging from fruity to chocolately to nutty. By far my favorite? Brazil Nut and Almond!!! They smell so delicious, I almost want to taste it (Don't worry! I won't...)
Something I discovered that I would definitely consider purchasing is the Lancome Nutrix Royal Body Intense Lipid Repair Cream. I got a deluxe travel size as part of my gift with purchase a while back. Surprisingly, this is one of the most nourishing and healing lotions I have ever used! It is perfect for the dryness that comes with the cold winter weather. Definitely perfect for a spa night!
Soothe your Soul!
Lastly, end your luxurious night with something that soothes your soul. Whether you choose to journal, watch TV, or snuggle with your significant other, alway end your night on a happy note.
For me, a nice cup of tea and YouTube are perfection. If you like a tea that has a true tea flavor with an infused fruit taste (not to be confused with artificially flavored fruit teas), The Republic of Tea Ginger Peach is de-lish!
The Republic of Tea - Longevity Tea in Ginger Peach
Hope I have given you some inspiration to create your own relaxing spa night! Remember that it's all about creating the experience and not necessarily finding expensive luxury products to make your evening a delightful one! Sometimes, changing one thing in your daily routine does the trick!
Let me know in the comments below what your favorite way to relax is.
Wishing a restful evening to all of you beauties out there!
- Jen
