It’s a brand new season! It’s of the best times of the year. Winter’s on its way out. Warmer days are peeking out between chilly bouts of weather. There are new fashions in stores. Home improvement plans get underway. Spring travel, fresh new fruits and vegetables come into season.
And of course, a brand new crop of beauty products to tend to the hair, skin and nails and what they need as warmer weather hits.
It’s a season where we’ll be starting to show more skin. Shorts, tank tops and dresses. Closed toe shoes and boots will open up to pretty sandals. Gloves that kept the hands warm get tucked away.
After winter’s dry air and whipping wind, a little pampering can be just what you need to get ready. You don’t have to go any further than your home, or spend a lot of money.
Scrub: A good body scrub will remove dead and dry skin, so grab something from the store and use it head to toe. Natural products can be more gentle and better for skin, so consider a simple option that packs nutrients, essential oils or other non-synthetic ingredients. You can also make a scrub at home — just do a quick online search and you’ll find dozens of recipes and ideas. Be careful not to scrub too hard or too frequently. A gentle application from top to toes, then rinse, once a week should more than do the job. Be careful with a scrub on the face — what you use for the body is likely too intense for the face, or it may be the wrong formulation and cause breakouts. Use a product that is created specifically for facial skin instead.
Treat. After a scrub, baby the skin, hair and nails with moisture-rich lotion or other treatment. You’ll find a ton of hair and facial masks at stores and online. Coconut oil can work head to toe, or you can find a number of other 2-in-1 type of moisturizing solutions. Don’t forget to pay close attention to trouble spots like elbows, knees and the bottoms of your feet. If you don’t have time for a full moisturizing session, even a little effort after a shower or before you go to bed can help get you spring and summer ready.
Update. What you need in your beauty bag might change during the warmer months. Take a quick look at what you have on hand to see if it can transition to the new season ahead. Winter foundation might be too heavy, while powder shadow often melts away in sunshine and heat. You may need a lighter cleanser for this time of the year. Hit stores online and offline for alternative makeup and skincare items and talk with an expert or do a little research into what you might need to refresh your routine.
You can find more beauty tips, ideas and products in this month’s edition of Condiment here.