As we find ourselves vaccinating our way back into society, it’s certainly taking me a minute to reacquaint myself with my former social prowess, especially after living sort of like a hermit for the past few months (which I quite honestly started to enjoy, if you ask me). Not to mention getting back to showing up to bachelorette parties, weddings, birthday lunches, dinners, and well— even dates nights, which actually involves stepping out of the house.
Speaking of dates, since Valentine’s day is less than a week away, I decided to share my date night beauty routine with you, in case you’re looking for some inspiration. No, I don’t really have a date scheduled or anything, but it’s always good to be prepared because you never know, you know? And no matter which way it goes, a confident mindset and a good beauty routine are all I truly plan on concentrating on. The rest will play out as it should (because you gotta trust the universe, correct?)
And while prepping for a date can be quite nerve-racking at times, I decided to share a few simple and effective tips that involve everything from body sculpting oils and hydrating heroes like the customer-favorite Thirst Strap face mask by Wishful to date-appropriate perfumes that helps lift my mood right before I head out for a date. So, whether you've been planning a romantic dinner with your significant other for weeks, getting back into the dating scene after a long hiatus, or just casually browsing the internet, I’ve put jotted down my process that involves a little bit of self-care along with my personal recommendations that make me feel my most confident and ready or romance.
First, calm your nerves (and body)
I start by lighting my favourite Bath And Body Works candle (it’s got to be the Japanese cherry blossom one) to set the tone. I then usually indulge before the evening begins with a detoxifying bath. I find using a jasmine-infused body oil creates a feeling of balance, eases nerves, and alleviates tension. Believe it or not, it actually helps evoke happy emotions and washes away all the stress and tension from the daily grind. Namayaa’s body sculpting oil, is also a great option (if you fancy eucalyptus), designed to tone and firm your body. I like to follow this up with a nourishing body butter while my skin is till slightly damp, or the iconic Bum Bum Cream by Sol De Janeiro, which, by the way, can be used all over your body, and not just your derriere, for a visible lift and glow. Finish with a foot cream, always. My go-to is L’Occitane’s shea butter foot cream, because nobody enjoys rough, flaky feet on a date. No thank yew.
Great makeup is actually great skincare
I follow a solid skincare routine to channel a healthy, happy glow you get from date night excitement. I take the time to deeply cleanse my face with the Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm, followed by a de-puffing mask powered infused with niacinamide (to brighten and protect my skin) like the Wishful Thirst Trap Cocoon Mask. I also make sure I squeeze in a facial massage with the help of my trusty jade gua sha stone for an immediate lifting effect and to alleviate tension. To avoid dry patches to crop during the date, I lock it with a hydrating cream, and finish with a spritz of the Avène Thermal Spring Water Mist.
Start your makeup early
While It might seem a bit counterintuitive, try to avoid doing your makeup right before you leave your house. Makeup always looks better when it has settled in a little. I start by using the PIXI Glow Tonic (that gives me this beautiful supermodel glow, no joke), followed by Smashbox’s Photo Finish Primer to keep my base in place. Coming to the foundation, I’ve been using Bobbi Brown’s Skin Foundation Stick in the shade Honey for years, teamed with M.A.C’s Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation for a clean, flawless finish. For eye-defining volume, I use one coat of Benefit Cosmetics’ BADgal BANG Mascara. To cut my routine short, I always turn to e.l.f. Cosmetics’ Monochromatic Multi Stick in the shade Sparkling Rose that can be used as an eyeshadow, blush, and lipstick to fake a natural flush (yes, the formula is kiss-proof).
Perfumes that will leave your date wanting more
Smelling amazing is important. I’ve been using the Versace Eros Pour Femme Eau De Parfum for the past five years. And while choosing a perfume is very unique and personal to everyone, I thought I’d share a bunch of my personal recommendations if you’re still looking for your perfect match. A few standouts include Tom Ford Black Orchid, Gucci Bloom Acqua Di Fiori Eau De Toilette For Her, BVLGARI Rose Goldea Eau De Parfum, Carolina Herrera Good Girl Eau De Parfum, and Versace Bright Crystal Absolu Eau De Parfum. Choose from any one of these bottles for a guaranteed text back.
