Shopping during the holidays has become part of tradition, but as we collect goodies for our loved ones we often forget to treat ourselves, and our skin. The holidays are a wonderful time of family and friends, but if we’re being honest, it is super stressful too. Who is going to bring the holiday ham? Can you pick up the kids so I can drive to the Target three towns over who might have the one toy our child has to have this season but is sold out everywhere? How are we going to secretly build the dollhouse without waking up its new owner? Phew!
You deserve a moment amongst the madness to give yourself thanks for all that hard work. What better way to reward yourself than some self-care? Bring some holiday cheer to your beauty collection with this list of goodies that treat body, skin and hair all season long.
- A Collagen Peptide Boost for you Skin
Collagen became all the rage a few years ago, but for those who have not yet joined the crew, welcome aboard. Get ready for your skin to throw a gigantic parade thanking you for the added boost. Adding collagen to your kitchen has been shown to increase skin elasticity, encouraging your body to produce new collagen. I add two scoops to my coffee every morning and can’t tell you how much of a difference I’ve noticed in not only my skin, but hair and nails as well. Perhaps the most popular and my personal favorite is Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides powder, which is flavorless and dissolves easily in liquid. Add to your morning cup of coffee, or snack time smoothie and get an extra beauty boost. It is paleo friendly, no added sugars, and Whole30 approved: free of gluten, cholesterol, heavy metals, and dairy. $39.99 for 20 oz.
- Epsom Salts for your Bath
Epsom salt baths aren’t just for athletes anymore. No matter what the week has been like, soaking in an Epsom salt bath can bring you so many benefits. Epsom salt, also known as magnesium sulfate, helps reduce inflammation, stabilizes hormones, and improves the cellular process. It can also help heal skin conditions like acne and eczema, while reducing stress. When we are stressed, we use up the magnesium in our bodies leading to inflammation and directly affecting our metabolism. Soaking in an Epsom salt bath basically allows your body to take in what it needs and fill up the tanks. Dr. Teal’s has long been known as the go-to guru of Epsom salt, but the brand’s selection of salts mixed with essential oils gives you tons of choices to find your favorite. Try this lavender version for an extra dose of relaxation. $4.95 for 1 bag
*For an added benefit of hydration, add in Alaffia Bubble Bath in Lavender. My skin is uber soft when I get out of the tub that I don’t even have to apply lotion. I always combine the two for muscle pain and moisture, but let’s face it bubbles are fun! $16.00 for 32 oz.
- A circulation boosting Facial Roller
The fame of facial rollers has come and gone, but the benefits far outweigh any fifteen minutes of fame. In fact, these tools have been around since ancient times. The facial roller gives you a lymphatic massage, which gently drains fluid from the skin and muscle tissue in your face. This encourages oxygen-rich blood to the surface, increasing circulation and blood flow while reducing inflammation. Your skin will show improvement in under-eye circles and decreased puffiness. Use in the morning and/or in the evening after applying skincare products. Prices on these vary greatly, but this Herbivore roller is worth the extra change. Why? It uses actual rose quartz, not a plastic look-a-like. Rose quartz has holistic properties that speak to the heart chakra. Quartz expels negativity and detoxifies, meaning it can only add good vibes to your skincare ritual. $40
- A Silk Pillowcase for your Beauty Sleep
Do you ever wake up with those lines on your face that are impossible to get rid of? We have found your new best friend. The Colorado Home Co Sunday Silks pillowcase will literally change your face. Silk reduces friction, which promotes anti-aging by eliminating face wrinkles and keeping your skin smooth. So say goodbye to creases, wrinkles, and bedhead with less breakage. Its natural temperature regulating material keeps you cool throughout the night and has been scientifically proven to promote serotonin and collagen production. Lab tests also show that it absorbs significantly less product than the traditional cotton ones, keeping your skincare products on your skin. Again, these pillowcases are on the pricier side, but there are a variety of options available. This one in particular uses 100% pure mulberry silk, so you are getting 100% of the benefits. $49.00 for 1 Standard Pillowcase
- A Skin Restoring Face Oil
Facial Oil is the gift that keeps on giving. It acts as a barrier to keep the good stuff in and the bad stuff out. Working with your skin’s naturally produced oils and lipids, facial oil prevents water loss, keeping your skin hydrated and plump. Packed full of antioxidants that boost collagen production and strengthen skin elasticity, your skin will notice an instant difference. Try 3 Graces Restoring Facial Balm, to hydrate and protect your skin. My first time using this product gave me glowing results that keep my skin looking fresh while protecting it from the daily elements. But what makes it even better is that it helps seal in my serum to get the most out of my skincare. $32.00