Make Your Bath Unbelievably Better With These Tips

With so much free time these days, there’s nothing more appealing than carving out a part of the day for self-care, and indulging in activities like drawing ourselves a bath for some 'me time' bliss. While a candle, inspirational book, and a glass of wine can make it even better, the health benefits are what should make it a non-negotiable part of your self-care routine, especially now that we’re reminded on how much we should take care of and love our body.

Board-certified dermatologist Debra Jaliman told Brit + Co that a good bath can also alleviate pent-up stress and anxiety and can promote a better night’s sleep. “When you’re in a warm tub your bod temperature rises, and as you get out, it starts to return to normal,” she explains. “This abrupt change prompts the brain to release melatonin, which is a sleep inducer.”

So if smooth skin and a solid night’s snooze are among your self-care goals during this community quarantine, keep reading for some pre- and post-bathing tips that will help make the most out of your bath time. 

Do some dry brushing.

Help your blood circulate better and get rid of dead skin cells and dry skin with this technique that's great for your overall health. Dry brushing is simply done by stripping off clothes before your bath, and using a dry brush, stroke your skin towards the heart in light, soothing strokes. This should feel incredibly relaxing and should stimulate blood flow.

Gather your relaxation tools. 

Once you’re in the bath, the last thing you’ll want to do is immediately hop out to grab the book you’re reading (if you decide to soak in a bath tub), or change the music because you forgot to tune in to the playlist you like. You can set everything up on the tray before you even start running the water, so by the time you climb in, you can go right into relaxation mode. 

Gather a couple of hand towels placed within your reach as well, and of course, your beauty treatments such as bath bombs, face masks, sea salts, exfoliation devices or anything else you plan to use.

Dial in the perfect bathwater temperature.

A good bath is all about the temperature of the water. Bathwater that’s too cool will cut your relaxation time short, and bathwater that’s too hot will just make you sweat. Generally, you want your bathwater to be somewhere between 90°F and 105°F. Some might tell you to shoot for a little more than the normal body temperature of 98°F, and some will recommend the lower end 92°F, but it depends on your personal preference. It should feel warm, but not uncomfortably hot. 

Soak in soothing bath bombs, bath salts, and other elixirs. 

What spa-like bath experience would be complete without some good stuff to soak in? Bath salts are crystals that dissolve in your bathwater to soften and perfume the water, as well as ease your sore muscles and relieve tension are your best bets. If you’re not sure where to start, here’s a salt blend you can make at home with a few inexpensive ingredients:

First, add two parts Epsom salt, two parts sea salt, and one part baking soda to a few drops of your favorite essential oils. 

If you’re interested in more of an all-in-one approach, you can make some homemade bath bombs. These tabs fizz as soon as they hit the water and infuse your bath with fragrant essential oils, Epsom salt, and make the water feel all tingly. You can even add a little bit of food coloring to them so they change the bathwater to your favorite color. 

But if you're on the hunt for good bath and body care products, here are a few of our picks:

Slater yourself in moisturizer.

Hot water tends to dehydrate and actually takes oils out of your skin. Make sure to use a good moisturizer, body lotion or body oils after you dry off to lock in remaining moisture and help replenish skin. 

If you don't have a tub, indulge in a good old warm shower instead.

Not everyone is blessed with a bath tub, but you can still have a good time by switching on the shower, playing some good tunes, and choosing a body wash that can nourish your skin and make you smell pretty darn good at the same time. If you're up for a little DIY, why not make your own body scrub by mixing sugar or coffee with Virgin Coconut Oil? This can last you for months, and is always a great pick-me-up on blah days!