Ahead of a summer packed full of plans, three Stylist staffers share how they’re creating self-care routines this season, with the help of E45’s new HydroCell™ body lotion range
There’s nothing quite like summer in the UK. Evenings spent inside because it turns dark at 4pm have now transformed into long nights in pub gardens spent with our closest friends and the dreary, cold weather has given way to glorious sunshine. Suddenly, everything just feels that little bit brighter
There’s no denying that longer, warmer days have the power to instantly transform our moods and wellbeing. One study in the British Medical Journal reports ‘particularly strong evidence’ for increased wellbeing over the summer months, thanks to better weather and more hours of daylight
While summer can undoubtedly boost our moods, with a diary full of plans, scheduling in time for ourselves can sometimes feel tricky.
Between nights spent dining al fresco and weekends packed full of weddings, festivals and day trips to the beach, looking after ourselves can sometimes slip down the list of priorities.
However, we all know it’s vital to make time for our wellbeing and look after our health, especially given the heat can sometimes cause detrimental effects to us. And there’s one thing in particular we really need to take extra care of right now: our skin
With skin health at the forefront of our minds, we asked three Stylist staffers to tell us about how they’re creating ‘me-time’ over the summer to look after themselves and their wellbeing.
Here’s what they told us
“I’m prioritising myself ahead of my wedding”
“I’ll be the first to admit I always have a diary stacked full of plans. Whether it’s a new restaurant launch or booking tickets to the latest exhibition at one of my favourite galleries, my evenings are rarely not booked
However, I’m getting married in September, so I’m trying to be more mindful about what I say ‘yes’ to and I’m also looking to create moments for myself ahead of what’s going to be a busy time. Part of this includes creating a luxurious pre-wedding beauty routine that puts my mind, body and soul at the forefront of everything I do
Initially, I really focused on looking after my face. But recently, my attention has turned to giving some TLC to my body, including making sure my skin is well-moisturised. I’m a huge fan of E45’s Hydrocell™ Firm Body Gel Cream to keep me feeling great. Containing peptides, the gel texture feels really refreshing while keeping my skin hydrated.”
Susanne Norris, executive editor
Credit: Abby Allen
“Looking after myself post-festival is a must”
“Glastonbury blues are hitting me hard this year, so I’m making sure to pack my summer full of live music to make up for it. From BST Hyde Park to All Points East, my summer is full of festivals
While I love the atmosphere at festivals, it’s safe to say you’re at the mercy of whatever weather the great British summer decides to throw at you. From torrential rain to heatwaves that cause dust storms, it can be very unpredictable
So, post-festival, I like to make sure I have a self-care routine. I’ll do a face mask, put on my favourite film and make sure I get my fair share of electrolytes. I also take care to keep my skin hydrated – especially if it’s been a hot, dry day – and finding the right formula is a must for this. Currently, I’m using E45’s Hydrocell™ Glow Body Lotion Serum Spray, as it keeps me looking healthy and glowing for days.”
Abby Allen, writer
Credit: Miranda Larbi
“Exercise is a non-negotiable for me”
“When you think of me-time, you might typically imagine a long bath, an extensive beauty routine or binge-watching your favourite shows. But for me, self-care comes in the form of exercise – particularly running
Since having a baby, I don’t get anywhere near as much time to myself as I did before, but running allows me to get outside, clear my head and raise my serotonin levels. It really does feel freeing
Post-run, I have my routine that I follow, including a long hot shower and moisturising with the E45 Hydrocell™ Smooth Body Lotion. It feels super-luxe but has a very reasonable price tag, so I love slathering it on. It also contains salicylic acid so it has exfoliating properties, too, making it ideal for using on my legs this summer.”
Miranda Larbi, health and wellness editor
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