Aveda Stress-Fix Soaking Salts are made with both sugar and salt to exfoliate and soften your skin. The granules are infused with organic French lavender and clary sage essences to help you de-stress.
While you're in the tub, work on your deep breathing. "Your lymphatic system gets a boost from these deep breaths," Wechsler says, which helps it deliver nutrients to cells, collect waste and fight off pathogens -- all of which can improve your skin's health. "Not to mention that deep breathing immediately helps restore your body to a state of calm," she says.
Just don't wind down with a glass or two of wine, as well. Clary sage, while non-toxic, is so relaxing that it can enhance the effects of alcohol.
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A Multi-Purpose Calming Oil
"You can add a few drops of an essential oil into your warm bath and soak to evoke a state of relaxation and bliss," Wechsler says. Put a few drops of Dermalogica Stress Relief Oil into your tub, and let the soothing blend of sandalwood, lavender, clary sage essential oils take you to your happy place. You can also use this oil in lieu of a lotion, or for a relaxing massage.
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A Lavender-Infused Cure for Dry Skin
When you're stressed, your body releases cortisol, a stress hormone that (among other things) makes it harder for your body to hang onto water. Meaning: your skin dries out. Origins Calm to Your Senses Lavender and Vanilla Body Souffle combines a hydrating blend of olive oil, grapeseed oil and apricot kernel oil with mind-calming lavender and vanilla for a product that eases the outward symptoms of stress as well as anxiety.
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Sleepytime Tea in Face-Wash Form
"Chamomile is well known for its calming and soothing qualities," Howard says. "I love using [Simple Foaming Cleanser] twice a day because it helps me focus my mind on my senses." The best part? Not only is chamomile soothing for your nerves, it also soothes skin, reduces redness and gently cleanses.
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Get Spa-Like Tranquility in Your Shower
Another scent Wechsler recommends for stress relief is rose. Ren Moroccan Rose Otto Body Wash has a light, delicate fragrance that's perfect for unwinding in your hot (but not too hot) shower after a particularly stressful day.
The body wash also contains chamomile, which Wechsler recommends for its stress-relieving properties. For an extra dose, she recommends sipping chamomile tea post-bath. Just be sure to deeply breathe in the scent for the soothing aromatherapy benefits.
