A lot has changed when it comes to beauty. Some of the old mantras no longer apply. The pain is beauty mantra has been phased out, and in its wake left a new approach to beauty that is holistic, restorative and personalized to individuals. Not to mention, we no longer see the skin as an isolated part of our body, rather we see it as an expansive organ that reflects the totality of our health. As quite the novice in skincare, I sat down with beauty professional Vance Soto of OleHenriksen Face/Body Spa to get the low down on the 7 new rules of beauty.
1. Beauty Rituals Are Meditative
When you take time to make it your own, beauty can be a form of meditation. Find a ritual that works for you and commit to doing it each night. To truly make it special, light a candle, play music and wear an indulgent robe.
2. Don’t Fear Complexion Oils
There’s a fear that you’ll break out if you use oils on your skin, but really it helps to keep skin hydrated, fresh and clean. You can make facial oils at home by combining grapeseed or coconut oil with your favorite essential oils.
3. Exfoliation Is Key
A lot of people don’t do it as they fear it damages their skin, or causes sensitivity, but freshly exfoliated skin makes it much easier to absorb moisturizers, serums and oils and stay hydrated. Aim for twice a week.
4. Sunscreen, Always
This is a non-negotiable. Keep tubes in your car, handbag, office and bathroom – and never be caught out without some. When it comes to sun damage, prevention is the best medicine.
5. Inhalation Therapy
Inhale some essential oils and transport yourself to another world. After all, scent and aroma is one of the most powerful and transformative sensations around. As Vance says, “Inhalation Therapy is worth its weight in gold. Breathing triggers an intense sense of relaxation. It’s an instant hit”.
6. Inside Out Beauty
What you eat shows up on your skin. How you feel shows up on your skin too. Beauty is not just what you put on your face, it’s a total mind body connection. To take care of your skin, you have to take care of your whole being, and make time for yourself. Vance says, “You need to take time to take care of yourself and set the stage for the next adventure”.
7. Perseverance Counts
In our culture of instant gratification, we demand to see results now. But when it comes to beauty, perseverance is key. The most effective beauty hacks are those that become rituals; and something that we do with generosity and love towards ourselves.