I know what you’re thinking; ”Mulenga, please, I can’t even get out of bed, let alone do a skincare routine.” I know it sounds like such a wild thing to do when you’ve been in bed for three days straight and not showered but what about doing a little routine on the fourth day?
”Depressive disorder (also known as depression) is a common mental disorder. It involves a depressed mood or loss of pleasure or interest in activities for long periods of time. Depression can happen to anyone. People who have lived through abuse, severe losses or other stressful events are more likely to develop depression. Approximately 280 million people in the world have depression.”
World Health Organisation (WHO)
The other day I went to myself ”Oh my gosh, I am running out of skincare products” because I had been using the same three-six skincare products for almost three weeks. Even whilst drowning in my misery, I somehow managed to do a type of routine now and then, but much to my dismay, those products were running out, but…
Those are only some skincare products I own, but when depression hits, your vision is almost affected. I knew I had many skincare products but didn’t fully realise until I cleaned my depression room.
God, I hate depression.
This isn’t me telling you to do your skincare routine. The one good day you have, how about doing something small for yourself?
Hygiene is really difficult when you’re depressed. Some people can go days, weeks or months without a shower. At some point, you may be well enough to have a long hot shower, and at that time, I recommend doing a 2-3 step routine and taking your time, like really…take your…time.
I find this as a form of self-care and self-love. Physical touch is one of the five love languages. You are taking care of your yourself, touching your body and skin in a loving manner is almost healing yourself, even if it’s for five minutes. Being gentle with yourself is crucial, especially when you’re not feeling this best.
I recommend three things
A facial cleanser (take your time and wash your face for at least 60 seconds)
A hydrating serum (My favourite is The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5. Use it on a damp face)
A moisturiser (Any of your favourite)
That’s all your need. A little ”pick me up” if you must. It’s not easy to take care of yourself when you’re feeling low, but that off chance, you feel okay. Do this for you.
Whatever you are going through, return to yourself, and remember, the person that will be with you the longest in life is you, so the time you feel better, wash your face, hydrate your skin, moisture and if you feel low again, get back in bed, watch a movie or show you enjoy and try again tomorrow.
You did well today and I am proud of you.