A luxurious spa feeling does not need a reservation. With a free evening and a few things you probably already own, you can turn an ordinary night into a slow, restorative ritual.
Set the scene
- Lower the lights. Switch off overhead lighting and use lamps or candles. Never leave a lit candle unattended.
- Warm your towels. Drape them over a radiator or put them in the dryer for a few minutes.
- Choose a soundtrack. Soft instrumental music or quiet helps the room feel calm.
- Put your phone away. An hour without notifications is part of the treatment.
The bath or shower
Keep the water warm rather than hot, and keep the soak reasonably short so your skin does not dry out. A few drops of a gentle bath oil or a handful of bath salts add to the experience. If you are planning a self tan, this is a good time for gentle exfoliation.
Face
- Cleanse with a mild cleanser.
- Apply a mask suited to your skin, following the timing on the label.
- Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry.
- Finish with your usual serum and moisturizer.
Body
Apply a rich body lotion or oil while your skin is still slightly damp. Take your time with hands and feet. A pair of cotton socks over moisturized feet makes a simple overnight treatment.
Wind down
- Make a caffeine-free herbal tea and drink a glass of water.
- Read, stretch gently or simply rest.
- Head to bed a little earlier than usual.
A simple shopping list
- Bath salts or bath oil
- A face mask for your skin type
- A rich body moisturizer
- Unscented or lightly scented candles
- Soft cotton socks
- Your favorite herbal tea
If a tan is part of your routine, read Making a Tan Last before you reach for the scrub.