My Self-Care Staples

By: Karta Khalsa

If you know me, you know how much I value my self-care. Whether it be a nighttime skincare ritual or splurging on a product that makes me feel good, I am a big believer in the importance of treating yourself and setting aside time every night for relaxation, especially considering the crazy and stressful lives we tend to live as college students. Here are a few of my current essential self-care staples; these products help me feel calm, clean, and overall make me love my nighttime routine as much as I do!

1.Farmacy Honey Halo Ultra-Hydrating Ceramide Moisturizer

This particular moisturizer is on the more expensive end, but it is worth it if you like to splurge on skincare. Although it looks very thick at first, this moisturizer melts into my skin like butter and has a yummy honey aroma, just like the name suggests. I used to steer away from super moisturizing products for fear of breaking out, but I have found over the years that the more I moisturize, the better my skin looks and feels. I love to use it on nights when I am doing a more ~boujee~ skincare routine, and I always wake up glowing.

2. Tonymoly Sheet Masks

Over the past year, I have grown to love a good moisturizing sheet mask. Specifically, I have been loving the Tonymoly brand because they are affordable and leave my face feeling insanely soft and moisturized the next morning! Especially in the winter when it tends to be dryer and more irritated than usual, these have been a lifesaver, and the adorable packaging is a plus. I suggest popping them in the fridge beforehand or running an ice cube over your face while you have the mask on for an extra refreshing and de-puffing sensation!

3. Vaseline Original Chapstick

Sometimes, it is best to stick to the basics. I have always been a Vaseline enthusiast, and I will never travel anywhere without packing my tub of it. This past semester at school, my roommate introduced me to Vaseline in chapstick form! I cannot believe I never knew it existed, but I am so glad that I found out. You can get a two-pack at Target for just $2.49 and for some reason, this chapstick is so incredibly comforting to use. Over the years I have used all types of different lip masks and chapsticks, but as I said before, nothing beats the original. 

4. Lavender FOG - Aromatherapy Spray Mist

Like it says on the Lavender Life Company website, “all-natural lavender spray mist is made with organic lavender and smells absolutely heavenly!”, and I couldn’t agree more. This particular company makes hand-crafted spray bottles filled with distilled water, a blend of Bulgarian lavender, palmarosa, eucalyptus, and rose essential oils from their farm in Michigan. I love giving my pillow and bedding a spritz of this before I get in bed because it smells great and helps me relax before going to sleep. This brand is one of my favorites, but there are definitely other lavender sprays out there on the market to experiment with, and I highly recommend adding this detail to your bedtime routine for some extra relaxation! 

5. Sleepytime Extra Tea

Made with a blend of chamomile, spearmint, valerian, and other soothing herbs, enjoying a warm cup of Sleepytime tea has been a cozy addition to my night. One of the best feelings has been crawling into bed after a long day, watching a movie or show, and sipping my tea while I wind down. I can confidently say that this particular tea helps me sleep because I usually end up dozing off before I’m able to finish the whole cup!