A bedtime bath (or shower) routine can be incredibly relaxing when done properly. It’s important to personalize your own routine to fit your needs until it becomes a regular nightly habit. While you can use any combination of products and a variety of steps, there are essential steps you should consider while developing your own ultimate bedtime bath routine.
Why a Bedtime Bath is Essential
Getting ready for bed can often be overlooked but is a significant factor when it comes to establishing a restful and restorative sleep. Taking a warm, calming bath (or shower) before bed is essential in preparing your body and mind for sleep. Bathing in warm water helps to relax tense muscles, soothe soreness and inflammation, and can also help to regulate your body temperature. Taking a bath or shower also helps to clear your skin from any dirt and bacteria from the day that can lead to breakouts, irritated skin, and other skin problems. As well as this, your bedtime shower or bath can help you to de-stress and decompress from the day, making it easier for you to drift off into a deep and peaceful slumber.
What You’ll Need for Your Bedtime Bath or Shower
Before you create your ultimate bedtime bath routine, there are some basic items you’ll need. These include:
- A bath or shower, depending on your preferences
- A showerhead that can produce pour and gentle streams of water
- A relaxing scent like lavender, chamomile, or eucalyptus
- Towels and plush bath mats
- A loofah or cotton washcloth
- Body wash and facial cleanser
- A facial mask
- Nourishing body oil or body lotion
Your Ultimate Bedtime Bath Routine
Now that you have the necessary items, it’s time to create your own ultimate bedtime bath routine.
Step One: Make it Cozy
Before you even step into the shower, make sure everything is just right. Put on some ambient music or a podcast, light a few scented candles around your bathroom, and set the mood for your relaxing bath.
Step Two: Cleanse
Next, it’s time to use some cleansing products on your face and body. Start by applying a facial cleanser that gently removes all dirt and makeup. Then, use a body wash or soap to gently cleanse your body. If you want to use any exfoliants, it’s best to do that during the day or at least a few hours before you take your bath. Then, rinse off all of the products.
Step Three: Mask It Up
To truly maximize your bath experience, it’s important to multi-mask. To multi-mask, you apply a few different masks with different purposes. Start by using a moisturizing face mask that deeply nourishes and hydrates your skin. Then, apply a brightening or anti-aging face mask, depending on your skin’s needs. Finish the multi-masking session by using either a clarifying or bubbling mask on your t-zone.
Step Four: Enjoy Some Heat
Now, it’s time to enjoy your bath! Draw a hot bath and add a few drops of your favorite essential oils. Relax in the tub for up to twenty minutes and let the heat and oils hydrate and soften your skin.
Step Five: Rinse
To rinse off the oils, take a lukewarm shower. Use the showerhead to gently massage any remaining products and soothe your skin.
Step Six: Nourish
After rinsing, pat your skin dry with a soft towel and apply a nourishing body oil or lotion on your skin.
Step Seven: Relax and Unwind
Finally, relax on your bed and take a few moments deep breaths as you mentally wrap up your day. This last step can help to reduce any remaining stress or tension, allowing your body and mind to truly rest before you finally fall asleep.
Creating an ultimate bedtime bath routine can provide countless benefits not only to your skin but also your mind. With a little bit of preparation, you can enjoy a calm and restorative bath before you go to sleep. Whether you prefer a shower or a bath, adding a few steps to your pre-bedtime routine can make all the difference to your overall sleep quality.