Fact:
you don`t have to spend a lot of money to add some luxury
to your bath time ritual. Many of the lesser expensive
ingredients like pure almond, olive or sunflower oil,
Epsom salts or non-fragranced body moisturizers are better
for your skin anyway. These types of substances don`t have
fragrant elements that can be irritating to sensitive
parts of your skin. If you are a scent junkie, opt for a
great smelling candle instead. Here the rest of the steps
to creating the perfect, relaxing bath:
·
Silence!
First
things first; let it be known to kids, roommates, husband,
etcetera, that you will be bathing and will need 30-60
minutes of quiet time. That`s a non-negotiable. Then
either enjoy the simple sound of nothing, or bring in a
stereo to play your favorite tunes.
·
Treat yourself to a soothing beverage whether it be
wine or a steaming latte; or maybe a really good
treat like ice cream or chocolate.
·
Place your candles around the bathroom and light.
·
Begin running bath water that is slightly hotter
than normal (too hot is tough on the skin).
·
For normal to oily skin, add 1-2 teaspoons of almond,
olive or sunflower oil to the water; for oily skin,
use a gentle bubble bath instead (if you are out, dish
soap works in a pinch - and a pinch is all you really need
too!).
·
If you haven`t already, add bubble bath to your
water, ideally avoiding fragrance-free varieties.
·
Hit the lights!
·
Grab a soft towel to place behind your head.
·
Slowly enter the tub, trying not to disturb the
bubbles.
·
Use a washcloth or gentle loofa to buff your skin.
·
Use a body cleanser or body wash (as opposed to
soap, which can be drying).
·
Wait until the end of your bath to shave your legs;
they will be perfectly soaked and primed, and that way you
won`t be sitting in a tub full of shaving cream.
·
If you typically have sensitive skin, you may want to
shower off after your bath to avoid any irritation.
·
Dry off
with a clean towel
by
softly patting your skin.
·
Apply moisturizer - skin is most receptive to
lotion post shower or bath.
·
Finally, slip into soft cotton or silk pajamas and
enjoy a great night`s sleep!
Though
baths are great for the mind and soul, if you soak too
long, too often, it can be a little stressful on the skin.
If you bathe regularly, keep them to a 5-10 minute soak;
if your baths are a little fewer and farther between, you
should be fine with a longer one. Now, go on - gather your
bath essentials now so you will be able to relax in the
tub right when the mood strikes you!
