Maintaining our physical, spiritual, and emotional health (not to mention our good looks) during COVID has been a real roller coaster. For me, the cycle of feeling good → looking good → feeling bad → looking bad → feeling good again has never been more evident. The idea of true beauty being a holistic experience above an aesthetic one is, more than ever, clear as a bell. With that said, it is in the spirit of self-care and wellness (two terms way overused, I know) that I’d like to share some of my tips and tricks for appearing lit from within even during these challenging times.

Spring Cleaning

If you haven’t already, go through that drawer or box—or wherever those “Oh, I’m sure I’ll use this again at some point…” serums, primers, nail polishes, powders, body lotions, face creams, and applicators are—and purge! Chuck anything that has expired, especially old compact powders and foundations that tend to harbor bacteria from reuse of applicators. (C’mon, we all should do it.) Get rid of everything potentially detrimental to keeping your skin clean and healthy and dispose of it responsibly.

Take in the Sunshine, But...

As we move into the summer months, skin protection reigns supreme. We’re going to spend more time outside, and that means sunscreen, a big hat, and sunglasses to ward off hyperpigmentation, signs of aging, and the risk of skin cancer. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to realize that protecting those peepers and that delicate skin around the eye area is paramount. Choose sunglasses with wide sides, a large brimmed hat, and cruelty-free mineral UV sunscreen that can be reapplied during the day. Dermatologists recommend SPF 30, even if you are only out in the sun for a few minutes.

Lighten Up on the Moisturizer

Skin tends to maintain its own moisture level better in the warmer months. Only apply enough product to make your skin feel comfortable. Hydrating your skin with a moisturizer that contains neutralizing essential oils like lemon or orange helps to keep dead skin cells and environmental build-up at bay.

Slough, Scrub, and Shed

A good exfoliant is essential year-round and especially during the hotter months when extra-clogged pores, shine, and sweat are more prevalent. I recommend a gentle facial exfoliant used twice a week and a more intense body scrub every time you shower. The purpose of a good exfoliation is not only to rid the skin of that layer of impurities that builds up during the day, but also to stimulate blood flow that oxygenates the skin, bringing it to life with a rosy blush.

1 Cup organic dark brown sugar
(or 1 Cup organic pearl couscous for a gentler scrub)

1 Cup organic non-dairy Greek yogurt

¼ Cup sweet almond oil (or the lighter-weight
prickly pear seed oil—our favorite at KINDri)

¼ Cup coconut oil

10 drops lavender essential oil
(or any aromatic essential oil you love)

Combine ingredients and use liberally. Store in the fridge for up to two days.