4 Self-Care Beauty Steps To Try Before Winter Officially Ends

Self-care is certainly something that should be practiced year-round, but if we had to pick a season where it feels most fitting, it would have to be winter.

Whether it’s because our skin and hair typically needs more nourishment this time of year, or the fact the world seems to slow its pace entirely as the temperature drops, making time to pause, pamper and reflect just comes more naturally when it’s cold outside. Plus, donning a fluffy robe when it creates a cosy feeling instead of a sweaty one certainly helps.

So before spring bursts its way back into our lives, take advantage of the last few weeks of winter with these self-care steps.

Self-care for your hair

They say a new hairstyle is as good as a holiday, so why not hit reset on your colour and enjoy the ‘instant refresh’ feeling it brings with it? 

For a rich and healthy-looking DIY colour, start by removing any leftover dye with Colourless Max Effect to ensure the shine of a fresh job. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not go for a lilac shade or baby blue hue courtesy of Revolution Hair Rainbow Tones – it’ll be a hit of happiness every time you look in the mirror. Just don’t forget to protect your fun new colour with a heat protectant like KMS THERMASHAPE 2-in-1 Spray when you heat style.

Or, if you’ve currently got the cut and colour of your dreams, a hair mask is always a pamper night hit for a glossy mane the next morning.

bh recommends: SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Yogurt Hydrate + Repair Protein Power Treatment, GROW Longer Stronger Anti-Breakage Hair Mask and Goldwell Kerasilk Reconstruct Intensive Repair Mask.

Self-care for your skin

A common self-care skin care error? Layering every product you own on your face in one session. While elaborate at-home facials work for some, if your skin has been experiencing severe dryness, a compromised barrier or signs of dermatitis, eczema and the like, a better course of action is to pare things back.

Avoid any active ingredients that may cause more harm than good and instead opt for fragrance free formulas and nourishing barrier creams that’ll cleanse and hydrate the skin without disturbing it. 

bh recommends:CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser, QV Intensive Moisturising Cleanser, Cetaphil Gentle Foaming Cleanser and Lovekins SOS Rescue Cream.

However, if you’ve currently got your skin care routine down pat and complexion glowing, a weekly masking is always icing on the cake. Just make sure you’re choosing a formula that works best for your skin type, whether it be a clarifying clay mask or replenishing hit of hydration.

bh recommends:Bioré Yuzu Lemon + Papaya Brightening Clay Mask, SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel and FOREO UFO 2. 

P.S. If you’re on the hunt for a new SPF, check out BEACHFOX SPF50+ Daily Grapefruit Sunscreen (they’re new to bh!) and the new selection of Bondi Sands Lip Balms (which all have SPF50).

Self-care for your body

The body often experiences the opposite problem to the face; it’s neglected rather than overloaded. The good news is it doesn’t take much to rectify the situation and treat your limbs to a little self-care. 

In fact, applying a good no-nonsense body moisturiser mindfully to each leg, arm and across the chest post-shower allows you a few minutes to truly appreciate and thank your body for all that it does for you. 

bh recommends:Yours Only® COAT Body Moisturiser, sebamed Body Lotion, Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Lotion with Vitamin E and JERGENS Ultra Healing Body Balm.

If the winter weather has your skin experiencing flare-ups, pay extra care to these areas of concerns and consider applying a targeted, soothing barrier cream to help the skin heal.

bh recommends:BIODERMA Atoderm Intensive Baume, Hemptuary Hemp Soothing Body Balm and Plunkett’s Natural Vitamin E Cream.

Self-care for your mind and health

While all of the steps above are arguably as good for the mind as they are for the superficial, if you’re looking to enhance an atmosphere of relaxation and calm, a diffuser can work wonders.

Smell is a powerful sense that can ease the mind and help to reduce symptoms of anxiety. The right choice of essential oils can even strengthen one’s immunity against symptoms of the common cold and flu. For candles, pick a warming fragrance and create a meditative moment to watch the flickering candle wick.

bh recommends:In Essence Breathe Remedy Pack – Breathe, Glasshouse Fragrances – Fireside in Queenstown and Oil Garden Immunity Guard Value Pack.

Another instant relaxer and endorphin booster? Climaxing. Self-love is an act of self-care after all. And whether you choose to get there solo or with a partner, introducing a vibrator into the bedroom is an easy way to help you get there.

bh recommends:We-Vibe Pivot, Fun Factory Abby G and FRENCHIE Oh La La Love Lube.

What are some of your favourite acts of self-care?