Here at Birchbox HQ, September has definitely been a month of merriment as we’ve been celebrating our 5th birthday in style. But, with all the festivities comes a downside – occasionally we’re left feeling less than our best! Whether you’ve been celebrating our birchday, your own birthday, or any other special occasions this month, it’s time to dial things back a notch and indulge in some post-party TLC. Here’s our guide on how to recover…
1. VITAMIN C SURGE
If you’ve *ahem* overindulged slightly then it’s likely that your body will be lacking in vitamin C. The morning after, if you can face it, try and pack in as many leafy greens and citrus fruits as possible – a smoothie first thing should help to boost your antioxidant levels and sort you right out! Want to guarantee you wake with a radiant complexion? Apply the Korres Wild Rose + Vitamin C Advanced Brightening Sleeping Facial before you hit the sack to counteract any late nights by bringing the glow come morning. It’s basically your beauty sleep in a jar!
2. SUGAR-FREE RUSH
Although there might be nothing better than an ice-cold can of cola if you’re lacking in energy, in reality you’ll be left feeling even worse after a temporary sugar high. Chugging down a couple of pints of H20 might not be as immediately gratifying but it will help to flush out toxins and clear that headache, naturally. Similarly, coconut water is packed with electrolytes to help re-hydrate your body – fast! We love the Vita Coco Mocha for a cheeky treat. If you’re still craving a sugar fix then hit the shower with Ambre Vanillé Crème Body Scrub – it’s packed with brown sugar to polish and brighten skin (and it smells good enough to eat!).
3. POWER UP
If all you’ve managed to do so far is drag yourself (and your duvet!) from your bed to your sofa then you’re probably in need an energy boost – and no, we’re not talking about a triple shot latte from your favourite coffee shop! This Works energy bank breathe in is a pocket-sized miracle worker – it uses a blend of geranium, bergamot and rosemary to help you naturally re-energise and rebalance. Just roll it onto your wrists and breathe deeply. Ahhh, you’ll be feeling like yourself in no time!
4. MOISTURE BOOST
Chances are you’re feeling drier than the Sahara after your big night, and not only will your insides need a surge of hydration but your skin and hair will too! We’ve already discussed the miracles of H20 in an earlier tip, so this is all re-plumping and rejuvenating the external signs of dehydration – namely, your skin and hair. While you’re slobbing out on the sofa, slather on some of Philip Kingsley’s Elasticizer to deliver a rush of moisture directly to the hair’s cuticle and restore bounce and shine. The longer you leave it on, the longer it will have to do it’s thing so you don’t have to worry if you’re in the middle of a box set marathon! For skin, Liz Earle’s Intensive Nourishing Treatment Mask™ softens, calms, and balances skin thanks to its comforting blend of West African shea and geranium and borage oils. Plus – it smells b-e-a-utiful!
5. THE NETFLIX EFFECT
Okay, okay, so there’s no scientific evidence for this one but, let’s face it, if it feels right to call it a duvet day and spend your afternoon relaxing in front of a box set (or three!) with a pile of buttery toast then who are we to tell you otherwise?! Sometimes, the road to recovery involves taking some time to switch off and enjoy a good ogle at Jon Snow. Trust us, you’re bound to feel better.
We’d love to know your top tips for recovering after a big night out, or your quick beauty fixes for faking it until you make it! Let us know in the comments below.
– Mica Kelly