The COVID-19 lockdown fundamentally altered our everyday lives. Alongside many other critical changes, our beauty routines have also evolved, resulting in new perspectives and standards regarding beauty itself. As a naturopathic physician specializing in skin care, I’ve observed some unexpected new dynamics in how individuals perceive themselves during this time. Here’s a look at how “natural beauty” is being redefined.
Shifting Focus
“I never realized how much effort goes into my morning routine,” shares Patrick, a courtroom attorney. “Without the usual external motivations, it feels like an overwhelming task.” Patrick’s sentiments are echoed by many of my patients who have expressed a newfound simplicity in their grooming habits—this shift often brings a sense of freedom.
Jen, who works in skin care management, reflects, “For the first time in as long as I can remember, I went days without putting on any makeup. It was incredibly liberating and allowed me to reconsider my skin’s condition and prioritize its care.”
While many have opted out of complete makeup routines, the focus has shifted to nurturing healthy skin instead. Beauty aficionado Alison states, “Being at home has led me to forego makeup in favor of a hydrating skincare routine. My skin feels more hydrated and relaxed.”
Samantha, a designer of loungewear based in Toronto, resonates with Alison’s experience, saying she, too, “began investing more time in skin care and home treatments over traditional makeup.”
Embracing DIY
The lockdown has empowered many to take their beauty routines into their own hands.
“Strangely enough,” Samantha remarks, “this period has encouraged me to be more adventurous with my beauty rituals. I’m learning to French braid my hair (which I’ve never mastered) and experimenting with DIY treatments.”
Patrick draws a parallel with the recent trend of home baking. “The pandemic has pushed me to enhance my skill set in new areas, like giving my spouse a haircut. Much like those who learned to bake sourdough, I take pride in doing it myself.”
Missing the Experts
While at-home beauty routines have become popular, certain high-skill treatments are irreplaceable. “I certainly miss my micro-needling sessions,” Alison shares. “To achieve the best results, consistency is key, and I was seeing significant improvements. Given the cost, maintaining regularity was critical to getting the most from my investment.”
In addition to the services, many are missing the professionals themselves. Sandi, a makeup artist and esthetician, notes, “These appointments provided essential self-care beyond enhancing beauty. My relationships with the women who care for me in this capacity are dear to me. I miss that connection… as a makeup artist, I miss being of service.”
A New Beauty Paradigm
As we begin returning to normalcy, many patients express a desire to maintain their newfound, self-compassionate approach to beauty. This may easily be achievable for many as numerous companies have confirmed that remote working will persist post-pandemic.
Samantha has already embraced this reality: “I transitioned to a work-from-home lifestyle about six years ago, and I’ve enjoyed the freedom it brings to relax my grooming and style. It’s significantly influenced the foundation of my loungewear brand, Soft Focus.”
“However, not styling my hair or wearing outdated pajamas can quickly become dull. I still aspire to feel like the best version of myself.”
Moreover, this shift isn’t solely about scaling back; it’s about re-envisioning how beauty can adapt to the lives we wish to lead. Samantha observes, “Isn’t it such a delight to engage in a midday face mask or take a refreshing shower? I find that incredibly enjoyable!”
Indeed!
