The days are getting shorter, the skies are getting darker and the air is getting colder. Like many of us, winter tends to be the time of year that we effectively go into hibernation. Sure, the freezing temperatures and lack of sunlight don’t help, but there’s something to be said about the emotional boost that a little self-care can provide. Even when it feels like taking care of yourself has gone out the window, there are some products that can bring small doses of joy and health directly into our daily life. These practical staples will make your winter wellness a priority.
Keep your teeth and gums healthy
It’s all well and good adding in tongue scrapers and water flossers, but the easiest way to improve your oral hygiene is to upgrade to an electric toothbrush. The Ordo Sonic+ Toothbrush can help transform your brushing routine – and your smile – with its four different cleaning modes (clean, white, massage and sensitive). This buy boasts a powerful 40,000-vibrations-per-minute motor, so you’re guaranteed to get a proper clean. Plus, its pearl violet design makes it a statement piece for virtually any bathroom. Perfect for anyone who’s heading off on their travels, the Ordo Sonic+ Toothbrush has an impressive battery life of over four weeks when fully charged and comes with a travel cap for easy and hygienic transportation.
R1,199 from Ordo, Smile Shop, Clicks and Yuppiechef
Wind down well
The importance of a good night’s sleep cannot be understated. Poor sleep can have drastic short- and long-term side effects on your emotional well-being and physical health. Thankfully, modern remedies make it just a little (or, a whole lot) easier for whirring, over-thinking minds. Unlike oral supplements, Pleroma Patch Sleep Patches work by absorbing through the skin rather than the GI tract. They’re usually applied to the inner wrist or back of the shoulder, but once absorbed, the active ingredients enter the bloodstream to circulate throughout your body. Each clear, sticker-like patch contains melatonin, magnesium, 5-HTP, L-tryptophan, valerian root and hops extract to help usher you into dreamland. Say goodbye to counting sheep for good.
R279 for 30 patches from Pleroma Patch
Burn baby burn
Candles are perfect accompaniments to a long dark evening. Not only do these small marvels add an essential element of warmth and cosiness to any space, they also come in countless styles. We know you’ve probably seen this candle brand all over your Instagram feeds, but trust us, the hype is real on this one. The Okracandle Lemon Candle is a sophisticated take on everyone’s favorite summer fruit – an excellent option if you’re looking for something bright and mood-boosting. Beyond their ambience benefits, these hand-poured, made-to-order candles can also double as eye-catching pieces of decor. Place one on top of your living room credenza for a pop of colour or on your vanity next to your collection of perfumes. Your zen era has arrived.
R220 from Okracandle
Drink your way to gorgeous
The word ‘collagen’ has become almost synonymous with plump skin, long hair and strong nails, explaining why these dietary supplements are popping up everywhere. Adding this trendy beauty ingestible to your daily routine can offer a range of benefits, from improving skin hydration and elasticity to supporting joint health and aiding muscle recovery. Meet your new favourite winter ritual – the Revive Glo Latte Collagen Elixir – White Chocolate. Bovine collagen and coconut milk powder combine to make a fine powder, packed in handy sachets and designed to be mixed with hot water, milk or your preferred milk alternative. There’s no dairy or refined sugar, but the creamy flavouring makes your drink taste like a white chocolate latte. What’s not to love?
R480 for 20 sachets from Revive
Go au natural
For when you want to feel super fresh without resorting to chemicals and synthetics, consider switching to natural deodorant. We’re here to tell you that the new Mitchum Women Natural Power Roll-On – Eucalyptus is well worth the swop. Sometimes natural deodorants are uncomfortable and sticky to wear, but this deo does a great job at absorbing into the skin without discomfort. The rollerball design makes it a breeze to glide across armpits. In addition to smelling like a spa thanks to the subtle eucalyptus scent, this vegan-friendly deodorant is a winner for us in terms of performance. It has gentle ingredients like zinc minerals, bamboo powder and botanical oil extracts. What it doesn’t have is aluminium or ethanol, two common irritants.
R82.99 from Clicks and Dis-Chem
