The COVID lockdown completely reshaped our daily lives. Among its many effects, our beauty routines have evolved, leading to fresh standards and perspectives on beauty itself. As a naturopathic physician specializing in skin health, I’ve observed several unexpected connections with self-image that have arisen during this time. Here’s an exploration of how “natural beauty” is being reframed.
Shifting priorities
“I never realized how much goes into preparing each morning,” shares Patrick, a lawyer. “Now that I lack the external pressures to do so, it often feels like a significant burden.” He’s not alone in this sentiment. Many patients have shared how their grooming routines have simplified, often leading to a sense of freedom.
Jen, a skincare company manager, remarked, “For the first time in ages, I went several days without makeup. It was liberating, allowing me to focus on my skin’s health and simply let it breathe.”
Though many have minimized their makeup use, there’s a growing emphasis on skin health. Alison, a beauty enthusiast, notes, “Staying home has shifted my focus from makeup to maintaining hydrated skin. It feels much calmer and nourished.”
Samantha, a loungewear designer based in Toronto, echoes this. With the pandemic, she mentioned, “I’m dedicating more time to skincare and home treatments, as opposed to makeup.”
Empowerment through DIY
The lockdown has encouraged many to embrace beauty practices at home, fostering a sense of empowerment.
“In a unique way,” explains Samantha, “this situation has inspired me to indulge more and be creative with beauty in my daily life. I’m even trying to learn how to French braid my hair, which I’ve never accomplished before, and experimenting with DIY treatments.”
Patrick compares this to the culinary trends that emerged. “The pandemic has pushed me to expand my skill set into other areas, such as cutting my partner’s hair. Like the trend of making sourdough, I take pride in mastering new skills myself.”
The indispensable
Complex beauty treatments have proven difficult to replicate at home. “I really miss my micro-needling sessions,” reveals Alison. “For it to be effective, regular visits are needed, and I saw fantastic results. Given the cost, I want to ensure I’m maximizing my investment.”
Beyond the techniques, we often miss the providers themselves. Sandi, a makeup artist and esthetician, shares, “These visits weren’t just about looking good; they were moments of self-care. I’ve built lasting friendships with the women who provide this care, and I miss that connection … [and] as a makeup artist, I miss helping others.”
A new era of beauty
As establishments reopen, many of my patients express a desire to maintain their newfound, more compassionate approach to beauty. This transition may be facilitated as numerous companies plan to keep remote work options in place post-pandemic.
Samantha reflects on this: “I moved to remote work six years ago, so I’ve experienced the joys of simplifying my grooming and outfit choices for a home-based work environment. This relaxed routine is a significant reason I started my loungewear brand, Soft Focus.”
“Neglecting hair care and wearing old pajamas every day does lose its appeal. I still want to feel like my best self.”
However, this evolution is not solely about doing less; it’s also about transforming our understanding of beauty to fit the life we aspire to lead. According to Samantha, “What a delight it is to enjoy a face mask or take a midday shower. That’s definitely something I cherish!”
I couldn’t agree more.
