14 DAY TRIAL // We all know that a bath is, reportedly, the best way to unwind after a long and stressful day at work. According to many specialists, all they say about the benefits of a bath is more than just myth – and certainly not only a woman’s prerogative. With this in mind, Shape Magazine has set out to offer “recipes” for the ultimate sensory experience in a bath with the help of items that we can find around the house.
For starters, we have the orange. As all women would known, the orange is an ingredient found in many shower, bath and skincare products, since it brings about a boost of energy, while also making the skin more radiant. The orange does more than just that, though, Shape says, as it also helps exfoliate in the most natural manner possible so, to get a soft, glowing skin, we’re to place an evenly sliced orange in the bathtub. A few teaspoons of lavender oil will ensure the skin is moisturized properly after exfoliation.
Milk is another ingredient we have around the house and that we can use for a relaxing bath that will also make us look better. It has alpha-hydroxy properties and it’s been in use for thousands of years for such beautification purposes. “The lactic acid in milk helps to mildly exfoliate the skin, reducing blotchiness as well as clogged pores.” Alexis Wolfer, founder of a beauty site, says. 1 ½ quarts of warm milk should suffice to get the job done, Shape further explains. However, if the smell proves a problem, we’re to add a few drops of eucalyptus or lavender oil to the concoction.
Next stop, basil and rosemary. “It may sound like you’re garnishing a meal, but these herbs are great for treating muscle aches and pains. ‘The essential oils in basil have antioxidant, antiviral and antimicrobial properties, while rosemary is known to help increase mental clarity and enhance memory,’ says Wolfer. If you’re ready for a soak, crush up 1/2 cup of both rosemary and basil, place into a cheesecloth or herb bag and toss it into the bath. Wolfer suggests letting it sit for at least five minutes before getting in.” Shape writes.
With these in mind, there is literally nothing stopping you from drawing a perfect bath, which is good both for your skin and state of mind.