You’ve probably come across the TikTok trend of people creating a cozy, relaxing atmosphere in their bathtubs. These aesthetic and ASMR pleasing videos usually feature individuals surrounded by books, snacks, wine and scented candles and other comfort items while inside their bathtubs.
Have you ever wondered why they are popular though? It is because these videos highlight the need of having a self care routine aka ‘me-time’ every once in a while.
The “everything shower” is not so different from this except that it is an extended shower session where you take the time to pamper every part of your body.
What Does an Everything Shower Entail?
An everything shower is a luxurious, all-incorporating shower routine that includes multiple steps to cleanse, exfoliate, and moisturize one’s body from head to toe. This is a form of indulgence in self-care and it ensures that every part of your body gets the attention it deserves.
The Steps for an Everything Shower
Step 1. Pre-Shower Prep:
A. Hair Mask: Apply a deep conditioning hair mask to nourish and hydrate your hair. This is especially beneficial for the girls with natural hair as it can be prone to dryness.
Tip: Focus on products that provide your hair with intense moisture and nourishment. Look for ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and castor oil. Alternatively, protective hairstyles like braids or twists can benefit from deep conditioning treatments during your ‘everything shower’
B. Face Mask: Make sure to use a face mask suited to your skin type to combat any specific face concerns like hydration, acne, or brightening.
C. Teeth Whitening Strips: If you use them, this is when you use them, just before you begin your shower.
Step 2. During the Shower:
A. Shampoo and Conditioner (Hair): Opt for a sulfate-free shampoo and a rich conditioner. Consider doing a double cleanse if there’s a product buildup on your scalp.
B. Deep Conditioning (Hair): After rinsing out your regular conditioner, apply a deep conditioner or hair treatment and let it sit while you focus on your body.
C. Body Wash: Use any moisturizing body wash to cleanse your skin of dirt.
D. Exfoliation: Use a body scrub or exfoliating gloves to remove dead skin cells. Pay close attention to the areas like elbows, knees, and feet as they are most times, often neglected during normal showers.
E. Shaving: If you shave, do this immediately after exfoliating to reduce the risk of ingrown hairs and get a closer shave.
F. Face Wash: Opt for a gentle face wash to cleanse your face, particularly if you applied a face mask while prepping for the shower.
G. Foot Care: Use a foot scrub or pumice stone to smooth out the rough, scaly areas on your feet.
Step 3. Post-Shower Routine:
A. Moisturizing: After you’ve washed your body and done with showering, apply a rich body lotion or body butter while your skin is still damp to lock in moisture. If you need help extra hydration, use oils like jojoba or argan oil.
B. Hair Care: After moisturising your body, rinse out your deep conditioner and apply a leave-in conditioner or styling products suited to your hair type.
Tip: Use a microfiber towel or a T-shirt to dry your hair to reduce snags or hair breakages.
C. Skincare: Follow your regular skincare routine, including toner, serum, and moisturizer. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen if it’s daytime.
Tip: Use products that cater to your skin’s specific needs. For example, if you have hyperpigmentation, look for products with ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide.
D. Nail Care (Optional): Trim and file your nails, and apply cuticle oil afterwards.
Benefits of an Everything Shower
- It improves your mental health: Taking time for yourself can reduce stress and improve your mood.
- It boosts your physical health: Thorough cleansing and moisturizing can improve skin and hair health.
- It can act as self-care: It’s a way to show yourself love and care, boosting your overall well-being.
Takeaways
- Regular exfoliation can help with issues like ingrown hairs and uneven skin tone. Be gentle to avoid irritation.
- Black skin tends to be prone to dryness, so opt for thick, hydrating creams and oils. Ingredients that help to tackle this are shea butter, cocoa butter, and jojoba oil.
