The Perfect Bath Time

Although a day spent in the cold Christmas air leaves us feeling festive, it can be damaging for our skin in ways that even the best moisturiser cannot fix. In Europe, the winter chill is well underway and there is no better remedy than sinking into a hot and deliciously creamy bath.

Rehydration and relaxation are the perfect combination for a wintertime treat.

Firstly, no great bubble bath begins without the bubbles. Select one which smells divine and creates just the right level of froth. Although many products may smell to die for, it is essential to pick a fragrance which is more subtle if you like to bathe for a longer period of time. Bubbles which produce an overpowering scent can take away from the relaxation of your bath and become too full on.

Next, the scented candle. There is no surer way to feel calm than dimming the lights and letting your mind unwind. Candles are essential to any bath as far as tranquillity is concerned. Again, be sure not to pick a fragrance too powerful as your candles should act as more of a hypnotic distraction than an additional scent. Whether you prefer one larger candle, or multiple small tea-lights is your own personal choice, soak away and leave these flickering beauties to their own devices.

For the real skin saviour I use bath oil, alternating between the bubbles and the oil depending on my mood and the state of my skin. Bath oils are the go-to when it comes to recovery as the winter air can often dry out our skin and leave it feeling damaged. Simply add half a dozen drops of your favourite oil to running warm water and wait for it to fully dissolve. After a soak, these oils will leave your skin feeling sleek and silkier than ever before. After the big gym workout it is the Himalayan Crystal Salts dissolved in the bath. They truly work wonders on tired and aching limbs.

Of course, contemplate whether you relax best by applying a therapeutic face mask, or escaping into a good book. This one is in the queue for my holiday bath time.

Now that the bath time essentials are set, why not add on a few more extras?

Always well received, a warm fluffy towel can take the edge off when stepping out into a chilly bathroom. And lastly, after our skin comes our hair, so a luxury hair mask could be the perfect end to an even more perfect relaxation session.

Pampering us must be the best holiday gift of all.