I’m writing to you during Week 2 of my Co-Vid quarantine. I don’t know about you but I’m not quite feeling quite myself. Rather than wallow or get stressed out, let’s do something constructive. It’s time for a Pantry Raid! I’ve given you three self-care recipes using items from your pantry.
I can see very clearly the image of a picture I saw once of a woman jumping headfirst into a glass of wine. And… I imagine that most of us want to recreate our own version of that same picture right about now.
Throw into the confusion of these times, two boys, ages 5 and 2 who are a whirlwind of nonstop energy and what appears to be slightly stubborn defiance disorders. They are home now with me all-the-time. I love them but… I know you feel my pain and I yours.
So, What do we do about this?
I love talking to my clients about the importance of self-care. Let’s be honest, right now we have absolutely no excuse not to commit to daily self-care. Even if it’s just for 20 minutes, while one child is napping (little blessings) and the other gets some TV time. It’s a chance to feel a little bit more whole, a smidge more like yourself and a lot more hopeful.
There are so many ways to enjoy self-care that are quick, easy and can be done in the comfort of home. You’ll find all you need in your pantry. Whether you choose a face mask to liven up your skin, perform facial pressure point self-massage or create a homemade hair mask, it’s all part of taking care of yourself. Maybe its self-exploration, being your own person (not just mommy) or simply to feel better so you can be the best you for your family.
Here are a few of my favorite homemade recipes that include items that I
know you already have in your well-stocked pantry! No TP necessary.
Recipe 1: Anti-Inflammatory Honey Spice Mask
Honey is pretty spectacular. It’s antimicrobial, it’s a humectant, and it’s delicious. Bet you have some in your pantry! This involves adding a little cinnamon and nutmeg to act as anti-inflammatories and also make the entire concoction smell like a hot toddy…or maybe some other, un-boozy thing? I dunno.
Ingredients
1/4 cup pure honey
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
How to:
- Add honey to a small bowl. Extra points if you use raw Manuka honey, which can even be classified as a medical-grade antimicrobial agent.
- Add cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Give it a good stir
- Scoop the mix and pat it on your face
- Wait 15 minutes.
- Wash with warm water so the honey dissolves and you’re done
Recipe 2: Exfoliating Yogurt Lemon Mask
Yogurt has lactic acid and hydrating lipids, and lemon has citric acid. Put ’em together and you have a gentle exfoliator that moisturizes, too. OK, so with this recipe you’ll find the ingredients in your fridge and not the pantry. Unless that’s where you keep your lemons.
Ingredients
1 cup full fat, unsweetened yogurt
1/2 lemon-juiced
How to:
- Mix yogurt and lemon together in a small bowl
- Give it a good stir
- Scoop the mix and pat it on your face
- Wait for 10- 15 minutes. Note: Depending on how much exfoliation you want (and how long you can stand to lie around with yogurt on your face), you can leave it on for 10-15 min.
I know you don’t know what day it is anymore but let’s assume it’s Sunday Spa Day! Your bathroom awaits. Let’s not forget our parched locks from the winter. Obviously I’m a little skin biased but when hair is referenced as your “ultimate accessory,” I’m not going to completely argue that.
Recipe 3: Coconut Oil, Avocado & Honey Hair Mask
Coconut oil is truly a magical ingredient for your hair. It keeps it soft and prevents hair breakage because of its high moisture retaining capabilities. Coconut Oil is loaded with fatty acids, it penetrates the hair more deeply than regular conditioners. The avocado in this offers nearly 20 different vitamins and minerals to add shine, moisturize and even help protect your hair against heat and everyday wear. Eggs are rich in Vitamins A, D, and E, proteins and fatty acids, which help retain the luster and shine in your hair. As your hair is mostly made of protein, this extra boost to the hair leaves it feeling healthy and restored.
Ingredients
1 avocado
2 eggs
1 TBS honey
1 TBS coconut oil
How to:
1. Mash avocado and put the mash in a mixing bowl.
2. Add eggs, honey, and oil to the avocado mixture and mix well.
3. Apply to your hair from the ends to the roots. Bonus if you have a shower cap to put on.
4. Let sit for 15-20 minutes, rinse.
Prepare for your own hair commercial!
If you have questions about any of these recipes please contact me and I’ll answer away!
Biba Vernon
Biba is a New Jersey based esthetician, business owner and 15-year veteran of the skincare industry. After working as the lead skincare therapist at top spas in Los Angeles, New York and Philadelphia, she founded her own private studio in 2015. Beauty by Biba, located in Southern New Jersey, is a unique wellness getaway where clients receive decadent, customized facials, the highest quality waxing services, as well as in-depth education and insider knowledge of how to achieve their best skin.