A woman is applying body butter to her skin.
Clear skin exists without being smooth, glow-y or radiant; however, that’s not the objective. It’s important to note that body care matters just as much as facial care. The skin on our faces may be enhanced with makeup, but there are always certain measures to take in order to enhance our bodies as well.
Personally, I struggle with small bumps near the top of my arms, which is a fairly common skin concern. It’s not serious enough to be fully diagnosed as eczema; if anything, it’s a very mild form. If left untreated, nothing serious results except for dryer skin. For a long time, I was bothered by the inconsistent, bumpy texture on my arms, but because it wasn’t causing serious problems, it was easy for me not to pay attention to the problem. I was also unaware of any type of cure.
Recently, I figured out the simplest–and probably most obvious–cure for soft skin: moisturizer. I went from applying it only when my legs felt dry, to all over my body after showers, to every single morning and night. It may sound excessive, but it’s the ultimate treatment that actually produces results. I am a body butter addict and a lover of (most) lotions, and I believe it is necessary to feed your skin as much as possible, especially in these colder months. I didn’t realize how quick the skin becomes dehydrated, and with this winter being the coldest in awhile, it makes sense if your skin seems to be suffering a little more than usual. Applying creams and moisturizing products morning and night is definitely a commitment, but it was the one routine–when I truly stuck to it–that smoothed out my problem area on my arms. Be aware that this method won’t work unless it becomes a habit you commit to. With continuous application, you are allowing your skin enough nutrients within a healthy time period, preventing the skin from becoming too dry. Once it gets deprived, damage control is doable, but prevention is much more satisfying.
This routine has the potential to be a relaxing reward. Treating yourself each morning can be a great way to wake your body up and start off the day positively. Try making this moisture movement a ritual. Add it to your morning face routine or buy a scented body lotion along with your favorite perfume to up the ante. At night, apply a nourishing body oil over top to let the hydration really sink in overnight. Even on nights out, applying a body oil to the legs can look beautiful for an extra glow. If you’re feeling colorless, try self-tanner. Color looks the best and most natural over hydrated, smooth skin; otherwise, it ends up being patchy. Apply moisturizer before for a smooth canvas and after to maintain color.
Forget about itching your skin all day; there is nothing better than putting on clothes over supple skin and being able to walk around confidently showing off a little of your new and improved added radiance. It also physically feels better (obviously) and can be much more appealing to a romantic partner.
Some cult favorite products to try: The Body Shop Body Butter ($20) in whichever scent suits your senses, Trader Joe’s Coconut Body Butter ($4.99) for all the natural beauties, Lush Sympathy for the Skin ($26.95) if you’re feeling generous, Bath & Body Works Body Lotion ($12.50–but sometimes free with purchase), Shea Moisture Lavender & Wild Orchid Massage Oil ($9.99) and St. Tropez Bronzing Mousse ($42) for that toned and tan glowing goddess look because in the dead of winter, it’s okay to look alive. In truth, many women in today’s day and age struggle with body issues, so I believe this ritual is primarily important for developing a system of caring for your figure. Treat your body, and you’re making the effort to love your body and the beautiful skin you are blessed to be in.