In 2020, it felt like everyone’s life has been turned upside down. The freedoms you used to enjoy didn’t feel like freedom until they were taken away. The simple act of going outside and inhaling some fresh air was something you neglected until you were cooped up at home and unable to go outside. Even just seeing someone and hugging them now suddenly feels like a luxury.
Everything in your life might have changed, from your work situation to your home situation. During such an unpredictable time like this, it’s important to keep one thing constant. For many, it’s their skincare routine. But has it changed for you, too?
The Dwindling Motivation to Do Skincare
For many, it became a struggle to function on a day-to-day basis given the many uncertainties of the world. You needed more time to get out of bed, and you dreaded reading or watching the news. Every day, it felt like there was something more horrible that made going out less safe. You may have thought it’s best to just stay in bed, in your pajamas, and with your face unwashed. Your skincare went from sixteen steps to zero steps. And now, your skin is suffering, but you argue that no one is seeing you anyway, so it’s not so bad.
The Implications on Your Mental Health
Keeping to your safe zone–your bedroom–is a pretty normal response to such an uncertain time. However, you may also be experiencing anxiety from all the negative news surrounding you. Lacking the motivation to do just the basic task of getting out of bed and getting ready may also be a sign of depression. These are things you can work on, and you can take your time in doing so. Start with getting out of bed, then looking at yourself in the mirror. This might not feel like a fun thing to do if you’re lacking the confidence to brave the day, but your self needs you and your encouraging words especially now. Go ahead and tell yourself you can do it. Make yourself feel pampered with a Korean sheet mask, and dress in flattering clothes. After you’ve gone through all this effort, you will find it easier to do other tasks at home.
What, then, is Your New Skincare Essential?
Motivation. Yes, it’s not a product, but rather a mindset. Some of the products you’ve been wearing on your skin would be unnecessary at this time, such as foundations, mascaras, and even eyeliners, but even when you’re at home, you need to motivate yourself to continue living day by day with a renewed sense of hope. Even just one small act of encouragement for yourself every day can already do wonders for your mental health. If you have a support system of people who also share motivating words, that will be even better.
It may be hard to believe now, but this too shall pass. And when it does, your skin and your mental health will thank you for holding on.