Explaining how to combat the impact of the winter months, Sanctuary Spa’s training manager, Elle Monks explains how to keep your skin at its best this January!

It’s so easy to feel blue in January……the festivities have come to a close, your bank balance looks bleak and the party is well and truly over!  But it doesn’t have to be all bad; here are some top tips to banish the January blues and get you ready to face the year ahead!  Many of us will embark on a healthier lifestyle during January or make a resolution to change a part of our lifestyle in some way; we’ve come up with a few tips and tricks to help you well on your way to those all important changes……..

Tiredness will affect most of as at one time or another; but in January it can seem worse.  The shorter days and colder weather is enough to get you drifting off at your desk post lunch time.  Try reducing your caffeine intake and the amount of sugary foods you eat; you’ll regulate your body’s highs and lows,  and be far less likely to be yawning before 4pm!  Alternatively, kick start your day with exercise; this will not only relieve stress but you’ll sleep better at night too.  Sanctuary Spa’s Sleep Range is also a great way to unwind and ensure you the perfect night’s sleep; try using the Calming Luxury Bath Soak and lighting a Day Dream Candle!  Having a hot bath, playing music and reading will also guarantee that good night’s sleep!

Feeling blue this January?  Fill your diet with pick me up foods like Beetroot; bursting with energy boosting nutrients.  Eating foods rich in vitamin B such as Bananas and Avocados will lift your mood and banish the blues.  Use Sanctuary Spa’s brightening Radiance Exfoliator to ensure you look as bright as you feel; this Pumpkin, Papaya and Pineapple scrub will remove dull and tired skin, revealing a radiant you!  Why not try something new; join a gym, go to an exercise class, start a new hobby…..or even book a holiday to somewhere new?

Dry Skin is a problem for many of us post-party season.  Foods that are rich in essential Omega 3 fatty acids will help to enrich our skin and combat dryness.  Particularly good for this are fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines.  You can also get these from flaxseed, tofu and soybeans, so there’s no excuse not to feed your skin with these essential fatty acids!  To give your skin an extra boost we recommend Sanctuary Spa’s Therapist’s Secret Facial Oil; this oil feeds your skin and can be used by applying directly to the face morning and night or by adding a couple of drops to your regular moisturiser.  Enriched with Vitamin E, Rose and Frankincense this indulgent oil really is a super food for dry skins in need of a treat!

Dry Hands are a common problem during colder months.  Treat yourself to a monthly manicure to treat chapped hands and nourish dry nails and cuticles. Sanctuary Spa Covent Garden’s Perfectly Polished Manicure is 55 minutes of bliss for dry and tired hands. Alternatively, treat your hands to some TLC at home. Many of us strip our skin of its natural oils and defences by using harsh soaps and detergents; if you are suffering with dry hands then avoid using any products that contain Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) as this can strip and dry delicate hands. Use a nourishing hand cream like Sanctuary Spa’s Active Reverse Correct & Protect hand cream, this will lovingly restore dry hands and protect them from the elements; use daily as required for best results.

Feeling Bloated after the party season?  To banish that bloat and leave yourself feeling super svelte ensure you are drinking at least 8-10 glasses of water a day, and avoid carbonated drinks at all costs!  Treat yourself to a massage as this will aid digestion and eliminate fluid retention.  We love Sanctuary Spa’s Active Reverse Body – 55 minutes for £85; this revolutionary hands-on massage will leave you tightened and toned in all of the right places!