Self-Care During Covid-19
The last blog I published was on March 1st when we were all blissfully unaware of the pandemic to come. Here we are in July, with masks, social distancing and "bending the curve" now part of our daily vocabulary. The bright side to all of this has been the forced slowing down of our often frenetic lives to reconnect with old friends, neighbors, and family. Although there has been a cloud of uneasiness hanging over our heads, many of us are exercising more, reading some great books, cooking meals together and enjoying the outdoors (possibly with a glass of wine). This blog entry is focused on continuing self-care and a few fashionable items to create excitement for the gradual reopening of our communities. It does feel like one step forward and two steps back lately, but my hope is we will finally get our arms around this outbreak and get to see one another more regularly again....and we will!
My Curious List:
Masks- This new essential clothing item seems to be here to stay for a while. They tend to sell out quickly so be sure to get on wait lists when new stock comes in. Local Mill Valley artist (and recent high school graduate) Izzy Shilakes has this cotton quilted bohemian style mask (see below) that I love - more available to ship on July 25th. Check out these adorable prints like the dancing pineapples at Roller Rabbit. Etsy has a wide assortment. For the athletes in the family, Underarmour has created a sportsmask for easier breathing and cooling.
Frequent mask use can cause some skin problems or "maskne". Here are some great, simple ways to keep your skin looking good. It starts with a mild cleanser, regardless of your skin type. Dermatologists recommend CeraVe and I love their hydrating facial cleanser. I apply to my face with clean hands. You can easily find at most drugstores.
Sunscreen for your face is an essential and Elta MD blends easily without causing breakouts- which I am prone to. And don't forget your lips. Kiehls butterstick is my favorite- great SPF 30 protection, and a pop of color to look (and feel) a bit more polished.
To remove build up and keep your pores clog free, a good face exfoliation 1-2xs per week will do the trick. Kiehls Exfoliating and Brightening Cleanser is my go-to. A little goes a long way and I dilute about a dime size amount with water. Shower time is a perfect time to put on a face mask; Peter Thomas Roths pumpkin enzyme mask can be applied while you shampoo and condition your hair. Be sure to put on your neck and chest as well. It smells good enough to eat! - but you won't of course.
For under eye puffiness and added brightness, I really like First Aide Beauty's Eye Duty Triple remedy. It has a metal applicator that provides a cooling gentle massage under your eye area. A little of the cream goes a long way.
Flossing- probably my least favorite thing to do has gotten more interesting since discovering Cocofloss, a coconut oil dental floss. Recommended by my dentist, this is like "a loofah for your teeth". The texture really grips plaque and food unlike any floss I have tried. It is a bit pricey but lasts a long time. Designed by a California dentist, Dr. Chrystle Cu, to motivate her sister to floss. Flavors include coconut and strawberry.
Now for a few fashionable items as you social distance at the beach or dine outside. Puffed sleeve are everywhere and this A.L.C. cotton t-shirt version is very versatile. It keeps selling out. It also comes in black- which also sells out.
This modern take on the basket bag , the Loewe raffia tote, is made in Spain. There is also a smaller version and more colored leathers to choose from (when in stock). Perfect for your beach trip or weekend getaway.
This Reformation dress caught my eye - easy to throw on and timeless. Check out this floral dress with a smocked bodice .
Peasant dress shirts and dresses have made a comeback. This easy white cotton top by Ciao Lucia is perfect for the heat of summer.
And that's it for this addition- stay safe everyone!