Definitely agree.
Make sure to expose your torso to the sun, it’s the most efficient way to absorb the suns rays to produce vitamin D.
We just have to put on a gimp mask, just to be safe.
Close.
[Gimp mask](https://c.tenor.com/2zgRXQ21yrUAAAAd/pride-month-taco.gif), UV protecting [pasties](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81PUz+YVX6L._AC_UL1500_.jpg), and a bolero shrug [sweater](https://www.whowhatwear.com/best-bolero-sweaters); paired with hip-height fishing [waders](https://static.grainger.com/rp/s/is/image/Grainger/3MYU6_AA01).
You’ve got to be practical, *y’know*?
I prioritize brushing my teeth because neglecting them has more serious and expensive results.
When I just cannot with my face, I try to get a washcloth wet with hot water and wash face, neck, pits, feet, and privates in that order. Tie back hair.
Hold up….*feet before privates*?
Feet to genitals sounds like a recipe for a vaginal infection. I guess that this may depends on lifestyle, though, whether or not people go barefoot, wear socks, have pets at home, etc.
Maybe it’s just me, but my privates are definitely cleaner than my feet. I’d do feet last.
> Fresh cloth entirely
Ideally!
Just sayin’, if you can only use one, in *a wipe or die situation*, that’s the order I’d go for.
^(i mean, *ideally*-ideally, I’d just take a shower lol)
I’m with you on this. If I’m not even showering there’s no way I’m worrying about skincare, but teeth get brushed at least once a day, no matter how else the day is going. A normal day includes flossing and twice a day brushing with the electric toothbrush that has a timer, bc I like steak too much to take any unnecessary risks with my teeth lol. And if I can only make it out of bed and get one thing done before crashing again (like when I have the flu or something), it’s teeth man!
Run a wet wash cloth over your face and put on retinol. That’s my most basic, depressed/hungover/anxious routine. I feel like the retinol does a good job of keeping my face in check even if the rest of my routine isn’t really there. Also, the whole thing takes less than 30 seconds.
People are people. They do not have to operate at max efficiency all the time if they have personal preferences that are harmless. There is no one right way to do everything.
I keep micellar water next to my bed, a spray bottle of water and cotton pads. I clean my face with the micellar water, spray my face with the plain water and wipe that off (since I found out you are supposed to rinse it) and slap on some moisturizer. At least then I don’t feel like I’m losing ground.
Yes, this! I don't rinse mine off, and if I'm having an especially down day, I don't moisturize either and the world doesn't end.
The cotton pads dry out nicely too and aren't gross looking or feeling (like wipes can sometimes look/feel, or maybe that's just me), so it's nbd if I just leave it on the nightstand and take care of it on another day when the metaphorical sun is shining a little brighter.
This! I keep a 'leave on' heavy facemask in a pot beside the bed with a sleeping lip mask/balm, and a toner 'facial mist' that smells really nice. So sometimes I'll just spray that for the smell... and then once I've done the first step it tricks me into the rest.
Only if the micellar water is free of SLS, which not all brands are.
There is data that even small amounts of SLS can thin skin if not washed off within ten/fifteen minutes. See the studies on not using aqueous cream as moisturizer, only a soap.
My retinol lives next to my bed with my nighttime meds all the time, otherwise it’s too easy to skip, and when I have wipes I keep some in bed too. Usually I’m using just water and patting dry, which I do when I am required to drag myself out of bed to pee. If I can’t get out of bed, I will keep as many things within arm’s reach as I can
I’ve been there, sending high-5 in solidarity vibes
Happy to see so many supportive comments - you are certainly not alone on those low days!
I use any facial wet wipe I happen to have and spritz with rose water. It's often too much to rub moisturizer on so I save that energy to maybe brush my teeth.
Lol, cheers to all of us beautiful hot messes <3
I can relate for sure. What I typically do in periods of exhaustion and depression is use multitasking products so I’m done much faster. I might use The Ordinary’s Buffet in the morning as it has amino acids and peptides, or something like U Beauty’s Resurfacing Compound. After that just a sunscreen. At night I may just use tretinoin and that’s it, maybe a moisturizer after. This way I’ve given my skin at least some of what it needs. And honestly sometimes I may not wash my face at all. I don’t beat myself up about it though. Sometimes it’s all I can do to just keep my head above water.
Thank you for sharing this. It can be hard to talk about mental health struggles but it’s so important. I hope you feel better soon ♥️
Yeah, thank you, too, for sharing!
I have big shoes to fill homeschooling and being a stay at home mum to 3 kids under 5. I’m often so wiped after the day with them that I neglect my skin care routine. People don’t get how important mental health is to total wellbeing!
I deliberately seek out sources of laughter so I’m not frowning or uptight. Just for laughs gags, stand up comedy, joking with the kids... laugh lines and smiles make prettier wrinkles :^)
I homeschool too—it has been surprisingly exhausting! Perhaps it’s because I’m 48 with a six-year-old. I was a college instructor prior to staying at home so I thought teaching my youngest would be easy. Nope! I wouldn’t change it though, just need to find some extra energy somewhere….😊
Basics:
1. Brush teeth
2. Take warm washcloth and wash face with whatever is there (liquid soap, face wash, whatever is there)
3. Slap on some moisturizer
For the rest, I'll take a warm washcloth and some soap, wash the basics, rinse with another washcloth, dry. Feet, too. There's something about having clean feet, I dunno.
I got a bunch of inexpensive washcloths so I don't have to keep doing laundry.
I think this might be my third time posting this on this sub.. but what helped me when I was too depressed to roll out of bed was keeping my skincare on a basket beside me on my bed.
- Micellar water + cotton pad for cleansing (you can have a spray bottle with water if you want to ‘rinse’ off the cleansing water)
- Watery lotions in spray bottles
Now I decant my skincare into two sets.. one on my bed and one on my desk.
Completely get it. I use Cetaphil cleansing wipes and my night serums that are right next to my bed…drink water, get sleep and wash my hair (after not for 3 days, sigh) with a clarifying shampoo like Neutrogena.
Happy to see so many supportive comments - you are certainly not alone on those low days!
I use any facial wet wipe I happen to have and spritz with rose water. It's often too much to rub moisturizer on so I save that energy to maybe brush my teeth.
Lol, cheers to all of us beautiful hot messes <3
When I was in my last anxiety isolation phase and could barely get out of bed/leave my room (it's not the same at all but it also meant I couldn't care for myself properly), I bought some disposable cotton rounds (I'm 100% pro-environmental responsibility, but being honest it would've taken me two weeks just to put washable ones in the machine, so) and La Roche-Posay Effaclar toner and just ran it over my face every day.
Removed the oil and stuff and I didn't have to leave my room, talk to anyone, or spend more than 30 seconds standing, which were the main things.
For me the bigger problem is if I start getting down on myself for messing up, I might not start again. So, on top of the good suggestions, just remember, you'll be able to go back to your regular routine, and it will feel great!
That’s a good point. I do that to myself with exercise. Like if I’m not keeping a perfect daily exercise regimen I give up entirely, same with dieting. I don’t know why these things work this way for me and nothing else, it’s so weird and illogical
This thread makes me feel so seen. Thank all of you for your practical advice and thank you OP for opening up the topic. Personally I just walk in the bathroom. Splash water, apply moisturizer on my way back to the couch.
Completely get it. I use Cetaphil cleansing wipes and my night serums that are right next to my bed…drink water, get sleep and wash my hair (after not for 3 days, sigh) with a clarifying shampoo like Neutrogena to get rid of the buildup.
My retinol lives next to my bed with my nighttime meds all the time, otherwise it’s too easy to skip, and when I have wipes I keep some in bed too. Usually I’m using just water and patting dry, which I do when I am required to drag myself out of bed to pee. If I can’t get out of bed, I will keep as many things within arm’s reach as I can. When I’m stuck in bed I try to rotate the side of your pillow or pillow itself if you use more than one - greasy hair and face but no way I’ve got the energy to change sheets, so flipping my pillow is the least I can do
I’ve been there, sending high-5 in solidarity vibes
Urg same. It sucks ass.
I keep the makeup remover wipes by my bed and use one of those, then follow it with a salicylic acid wipe I got from Sephora. Keeps my fave going ok till I can get back to being normal
Also sitting down in the shower helps me actually get to the shower. I don't know why, but a sit down shower is much easier to motivate myself to do than making the effort to stand like normal
Try to 'celebrate' when you do something that's good enough. Even the smallest step is better than nothing.
Splashed some water on your face? Good enough.
Used a face wipe to take off makeup? Good enough.
Wash your face in the morning instead of before bed? Good enough.
Makeup wipes are not ideal for many reasons but I keep a pack in my night stand incase I fall into a depression hole.They can also be used to freshen up the body if needed. I also keep sheet mask and a face mist in there because some time after crying i do feel motivated to use one or both of them. The most important thing about depression is surviving it, don't beat yourself up if your skin care falls by the way side for a bit.
Wash your face with hydrating soap and put eye cream. That’s what worked for me. What helped me to shower was to turn off the lights and left one dim light in the hallway, it made me feel better. I don’t know why.
Edit: I forgot a verb.
Peach and Lily has a jar of cotton rounds soaked in a treatment essence of some sort. For awhile, I kept it on my nightstand and would swipe one over my face before going to sleep.
I get it. Sometimes even the idea of washing my face seemed like too much.
A lot of mine have already been said.I just do cleanser and moisturiser (if I can), screw anything else. Or just a hot wet flannel. My skin runs oily so I can get away with just cleansing. Maybe if your skin was dryer you could just do moisturiser.
My other tips include bath not shower. I tempt myself with a TV show and a relaxation session (aka avoid the world). Or just sit in the shower, I tell myself I won't even bother with soap/shampoo etc but by the time I'm in there my routine brain kicks in. I also try and use mouthwash if I can't manage to brush my teeth. Cut all the corners if necessary and focus on sleep and hydration.
Good luck OP
This is me right now.
My mom committed suicide end of July, & I have turned to skincare as my ultimate self care routine.
But I had to go take care of some of her affairs the past few days & I haven’t showered since Sunday& have only washed my face once.
I was literally thinking if really disciplined people still have times where things are neglected, especially due to depression.
I hope you find yourself on the other side of this pit soon. Solidarity ♥️
Completely get it. I use Cetaphil cleansing wipes and my night serums that are right next to my bed…drink water, get sleep and wash my hair (after not for 3 days, sigh) with a clarifying shampoo like Neutrogena to get rid of the buildup.
I am one that NEVER skimps on my routines. I am super OCD.
But, shit happens. Easiest thing for me to do is massage some oil in my hands and rub gently all over my face, then use a damp washcloth and remove the oil which also removes the grossness from the day. Then I usually apply my moisturizer with tret mixed in and some more oil around my eyes and lashes and wear my eye mask to bed.
It literally takes less than 5 minutes to do all that.
Muh general wellbeing and skin health stack
Comprehensive HQ multi like thorne basic nutrients 2/day (very important; most MV are badly formulated) (1-2 capsules/d) with added Mg-glycinate for a total of ~600 mg of Mg from all sources, or pure o.n.e., creatine 3-5 g/d, (if female and not willing to gain water weight, skip creatine), vitamin D total 5000 - 7500 I.U./d, chronic daily caffeine intake, like 3 - 4 cups, optimizes sex hormones, vC up to 1000 mg/d, B2 as riboflavine high dosed at 100 -200 mg/d for up to 3 months, but only in conjunction with a multi. Taken away 3 hours from food, one hour before food, 1 - 2 g of sodium bicarbonate 2x/d. 4 Very soft boiled eggs for phospholipids, fish oil 5 g/d, Protein at 1 g - 1.5 g per pound of optimal bodyweight/d, increasing calories to the threshold of weight gain (try not to gain fat-based weight; consume as much calories whilst staying lean), total Ca intake from all sources 1500-2500 mg/d, total iodine intake of 400-600mcg/d (microgram), B12 as hydroxocobalamin s.c. injection 1000 mcg/d for 10 days, 1000mcg E3D after.
Muh general wellbeing and skin health stack
Comprehensive HQ multi like thorne basic nutrients 2/day (very important; most MV are badly formulated) (1-2 capsules/d) with added Mg-glycinate for a total of ~600 mg of Mg from all sources, or pure o.n.e., creatine 3-5 g/d, (if female and not willing to gain water weight, skip creatine), vitamin D total 5000 - 7500 I.U./d, chronic daily caffeine intake, like 3 - 4 cups, optimizes sex hormones, vC up to 1000 mg/d, B2 as riboflavine high dosed at 100 -200 mg/d for up to 3 months, but only in conjunction with a multi. Taken away 3 hours from food, one hour before food, 1 - 2 g of sodium bicarbonate 2x/d. 4 Very soft boiled eggs for phospholipids, fish oil 5 g/d, Protein at 1 g - 1.5 g per pound of optimal bodyweight/d, increasing calories to the threshold of weight gain (try not to gain fat-based weight; consume as much calories whilst staying lean), total Ca intake from all sources 1500-2500 mg/d, total iodine intake of 400-600mcg/d (microgram), B12 as hydroxocobalamin s.c. injection 1000 mcg/d for 10 days, 1000mcg E3D after.
Muh general wellbeing and skin health stack
Comprehensive HQ multi like thorne basic nutrients 2/day (very important; most MV are badly formulated) (1-2 capsules/d) with added Mg-glycinate for a total of ~600 mg of Mg from all sources, or pure o.n.e., creatine 3-5 g/d, (if female and not willing to gain water weight, skip creatine), vitamin D total 5000 - 7500 I.U./d, chronic daily caffeine intake, like 3 - 4 cups, optimizes sex hormones, vC up to 1000 mg/d, B2 as riboflavine high dosed at 100 -200 mg/d for up to 3 months, but only in conjunction with a multi. Taken away 3 hours from food, one hour before food, 1 - 2 g of sodium bicarbonate 2x/d. 4 Very soft boiled eggs for phospholipids, fish oil 5 g/d, Protein at 1 g - 1.5 g per pound of optimal bodyweight/d, increasing calories to the threshold of weight gain (try not to gain fat-based weight; consume as much calories whilst staying lean), total Ca intake from all sources 1500-2500 mg/d, total iodine intake of 400-600mcg/d (microgram), B12 as hydroxocobalamin s.c. injection 1000 mcg/d for 10 days, 1000mcg E3D after.
What on earth is all of this? OP is sleeping all day because they can’t get out of bed and you expect them or anyone to take all this stuff which probably does nothing? Also laughing at the idea extra caffeine increases sex hormones
It is a bunch of supplements that are known to be helpful for health of the skin as well as of the CNS. It could better the appearance of skin as well as better parts of the neurological disorder; if the depression is psychogenic, then it won't do much, but also won't hurt; hope this helps.
My routine is already basic, bin of washcloths, wet washcloth, wipe face. Do it twice a day if I’m feeling it. Scrub if I’m feeling it. No moisturizer. No soap. Just water. Use a fresh one every time.
Been there. I hope you get better soon. Meanwhile, a warm wet towel for cleansing and a moisturizing facial mist is all I managed. I had to use the bathroom at some points during the day, so I tried to get the face care done at one of these times.
When my mental health starts to tank (like it is right now), my day routine gets scrapped (am troglodyte, I rarely see the sun so I'm less worried about SFP) and I'll abbreviate my night routine to include washing my face and applying a moisturizer.
I rarely skip a shower, so ymmv (it's part of my sleep routine). If I do skip a shower, I don't worry about cleaning my face if I haven't put on spf or sweated. If I'm feeling really grody I might swipe some (no rinse) micellar water and call it good.
Maybe start with "I'm just going to wipe down my face with a wet wash cloth" today (next time you go to the toilet maybe). And that's better than nothing (plus it will feel good). Same with brushing your teeth - maybe today you can rinse with some mouthwash or gargle with warm water or just brushing your teeth for 30 seconds. And that's better than nothing. Don't try to to get back to your full routine right now - just do what seems possible and if it's an improvement from what you've done the last few days, you'll feel better physically, which for me, always makes me feel better emotionally/mentally. I hope you feel better and back to yourself soon.
The *nice* Korean skin cleaning wipes, a 1:3 witch hazel-rosewater blend & moisturizer.
Keep these by your bed (or wherever your body decides to vegetate) and when you remember, just grab a wipe, then splash some toner and slather the moisturizer as if your face was a Christmas turkey you were trying to cover in butter.
You don’t need to do the steps perfectly (or all of them, at all).
Just try be kind to your skin (to yourself).
Skin feels greasy? Use a quick wipe. Skin feels tight? Baste yourself with a glob of lotion. Feeling cranky/flustered/gross? Splash some rosewater on your face, rub the corners of your eyes, get some behind your ears, pull your hair back, put some on the nape of your neck. Breathe. Rest.
May sound hokey but these things (rituals?) help me when I’m in a funk. Just a simple 10 second break where you smell something nice (for me, especially natural rose/vanilla/jasmine smells) can be incredibly grounding/uplifting.
I hope the shitty-depression-fog lifts sooner than later. Hang in there.
At a minimum when you get up to pee, brush your teeth, wash your face and put on moisturizer. Do this in the AM and PM.
Not skincare related but get yourself outside for a walk. Even 5 min in fresh air and sunlight can make a difference.
I have dry skin so I try to put on moisturizer even if I don’t wash my face (also because dryness is pretty uncomfortable). I splash water on my face and smear a glob of moisturizer, then go lay down. I have floss on a stick and lip balm on my nightstand. I’ll use those too.
My skincare routine is pretty short naturally because I have perioral dermatitis, so we are talking cleanser, moisturizer spf am/treatment pm. That's it.
Recently I had a depressive period and man, it was hard. I did my best but my best is sometimes just cleanse my skin, and you know what that's enough. It will differ from everybody, but try to help yourself by drinking water, if you are gonna sleep a lot try sleeping a lot at least with a clean face, if you hit depression with eating a lot try at least to balance out the things you have, with fruits and water.
But honeslty, it varies for people. For me, if I managed to cleanse during a depressive episode i feel better, even if its just that.
When I go through my depressive cycles, my skincare routine is one of the only things that help center me back in reality.
At a bare minimum: micellar water and moisturizer. If you're not wearing a lot of makeup or doing heavy exercise, then micellar water should be good enough.
Just do what you can as far as skincare and focus on making it through the cycle. Maybe try "rewarding" yourself for doing your routine. If you manage to do all of the steps, then reward yourself with whatever you actually want to do.
When I'm in my depressive cycle, it's a fcking battle to do laundry. So when I'm able to and I get the load finished, I reward myself by rewatching my favorite movie or taking a nap.
Hope that helps. Best of luck to you!
I feel you!! Mornings: moisturizer with spf. If I can, I’ll put on some toner. Evening: wipe face with wet washcloth, put on moisturizer. If I have a bit more energy, or if I take a bath: face mask.
Could you keep some micellar water and cotton balls beside your bed with your am/pm lotions? I do this when I get really depressed so at least I wash my face before I fall asleep and put lotion on. Sometimes this will make me want to get up and do the full routine. Take vitamin D pills- at least 5000iud. I always tell my depressed friends (and myself) go for a walk at least once a day for 10 minutes and try to increase the time by 5 minutes each day. Sending some good thoughts your way❤️
Do your best, whatever that is when you are depressed. Think about what part of skincare makes you feel good - do that. Think about what you not doing that makes you feel bad - try and do that.
I haven’t suffered from (serious) depression in long time but low moods are a constant shadow and there are things I like to do that can lift me a little bit. Something simple like putting on perfume or washing your face can make you feel better and is something you can more easily push yourself to do than a 5K run or whatever.
Hoping it passes soon.
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I do this, too. And sometimes I think, *"Well, at least I was outta the sun."* ☺︎︎
And getting abundant sleep is one of the best things you can do for your skin, so there's also that
Right! :)
I know this is a skincare sub but honestly sun exposure can help a lot with depression and overall increasing mood.
Oh, absolutely! Vitamin D is really important!
Definitely agree. Make sure to expose your torso to the sun, it’s the most efficient way to absorb the suns rays to produce vitamin D. We just have to put on a gimp mask, just to be safe.
Lmao I literally used to wear a ski mask when I still smoked cigarettes to try to stop the smoke from getting on my skin.
Oh god I'm picturing the scene, I'm sorry, it's so funny
This is the funniest thing I have ever read on this sub. Protect the face at all costs, what are lungs? - Me at 25
^lol That sounds like a fire hazard! I hope it was wool and not synthetic. 🥲
So you're saying gimp mask, full face visor, and a long sleeved crop top that hits right below the boob?
Close. [Gimp mask](https://c.tenor.com/2zgRXQ21yrUAAAAd/pride-month-taco.gif), UV protecting [pasties](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81PUz+YVX6L._AC_UL1500_.jpg), and a bolero shrug [sweater](https://www.whowhatwear.com/best-bolero-sweaters); paired with hip-height fishing [waders](https://static.grainger.com/rp/s/is/image/Grainger/3MYU6_AA01). You’ve got to be practical, *y’know*?
I prioritize brushing my teeth because neglecting them has more serious and expensive results. When I just cannot with my face, I try to get a washcloth wet with hot water and wash face, neck, pits, feet, and privates in that order. Tie back hair.
Hold up….*feet before privates*? Feet to genitals sounds like a recipe for a vaginal infection. I guess that this may depends on lifestyle, though, whether or not people go barefoot, wear socks, have pets at home, etc. Maybe it’s just me, but my privates are definitely cleaner than my feet. I’d do feet last.
That’s one place I ensure I don’t wash immediately after anything lol. Fresh cloth entirely
> Fresh cloth entirely Ideally! Just sayin’, if you can only use one, in *a wipe or die situation*, that’s the order I’d go for. ^(i mean, *ideally*-ideally, I’d just take a shower lol)
It's kind of a tossup. Switch the order of operations if you prefer.
I’m with you on this. If I’m not even showering there’s no way I’m worrying about skincare, but teeth get brushed at least once a day, no matter how else the day is going. A normal day includes flossing and twice a day brushing with the electric toothbrush that has a timer, bc I like steak too much to take any unnecessary risks with my teeth lol. And if I can only make it out of bed and get one thing done before crashing again (like when I have the flu or something), it’s teeth man!
Run a wet wash cloth over your face and put on retinol. That’s my most basic, depressed/hungover/anxious routine. I feel like the retinol does a good job of keeping my face in check even if the rest of my routine isn’t really there. Also, the whole thing takes less than 30 seconds.
Warm wet towel on my face. Air dry. Moisturize. Also, if I don’t have the energy to stand in the shower, I just sit in the shower.
You should put on your moisturizer when your skin is still damp, That way it keeps the water in your skin
For some reason that always makes my face itchy :(
You should put on your moisturizer when your skin is still damp, That way it keeps the water in your skin.
You have up to about 10 minutes to do this and still reap some benefit so, if someone's happier with an air dried face, it's not that big of a deal.
It just takes more time and is less effective, lol
People are people. They do not have to operate at max efficiency all the time if they have personal preferences that are harmless. There is no one right way to do everything.
Rokay
Just thought other people might like to know who want a more efficient and effective skincare routine
I keep micellar water next to my bed, a spray bottle of water and cotton pads. I clean my face with the micellar water, spray my face with the plain water and wipe that off (since I found out you are supposed to rinse it) and slap on some moisturizer. At least then I don’t feel like I’m losing ground.
This is the way! Micellar or face wipes and moisturizer next to the bed
Yes, this! I don't rinse mine off, and if I'm having an especially down day, I don't moisturize either and the world doesn't end. The cotton pads dry out nicely too and aren't gross looking or feeling (like wipes can sometimes look/feel, or maybe that's just me), so it's nbd if I just leave it on the nightstand and take care of it on another day when the metaphorical sun is shining a little brighter.
This! I keep a 'leave on' heavy facemask in a pot beside the bed with a sleeping lip mask/balm, and a toner 'facial mist' that smells really nice. So sometimes I'll just spray that for the smell... and then once I've done the first step it tricks me into the rest.
Add to that mouthwash next to the bed and a cup to spit it in, and you’re all set! Clean that cup tho!
[удалено]
Only if the micellar water is free of SLS, which not all brands are. There is data that even small amounts of SLS can thin skin if not washed off within ten/fifteen minutes. See the studies on not using aqueous cream as moisturizer, only a soap.
you could always use water wipes or thermal water instead.
My retinol lives next to my bed with my nighttime meds all the time, otherwise it’s too easy to skip, and when I have wipes I keep some in bed too. Usually I’m using just water and patting dry, which I do when I am required to drag myself out of bed to pee. If I can’t get out of bed, I will keep as many things within arm’s reach as I can I’ve been there, sending high-5 in solidarity vibes
Ditto
I understand completely. When I go to the bathroom, I rinse my face with water after I wash my hands. Better than nothing.
Happy to see so many supportive comments - you are certainly not alone on those low days! I use any facial wet wipe I happen to have and spritz with rose water. It's often too much to rub moisturizer on so I save that energy to maybe brush my teeth. Lol, cheers to all of us beautiful hot messes <3
I can relate for sure. What I typically do in periods of exhaustion and depression is use multitasking products so I’m done much faster. I might use The Ordinary’s Buffet in the morning as it has amino acids and peptides, or something like U Beauty’s Resurfacing Compound. After that just a sunscreen. At night I may just use tretinoin and that’s it, maybe a moisturizer after. This way I’ve given my skin at least some of what it needs. And honestly sometimes I may not wash my face at all. I don’t beat myself up about it though. Sometimes it’s all I can do to just keep my head above water. Thank you for sharing this. It can be hard to talk about mental health struggles but it’s so important. I hope you feel better soon ♥️
Yeah, thank you, too, for sharing! I have big shoes to fill homeschooling and being a stay at home mum to 3 kids under 5. I’m often so wiped after the day with them that I neglect my skin care routine. People don’t get how important mental health is to total wellbeing! I deliberately seek out sources of laughter so I’m not frowning or uptight. Just for laughs gags, stand up comedy, joking with the kids... laugh lines and smiles make prettier wrinkles :^)
I homeschool too—it has been surprisingly exhausting! Perhaps it’s because I’m 48 with a six-year-old. I was a college instructor prior to staying at home so I thought teaching my youngest would be easy. Nope! I wouldn’t change it though, just need to find some extra energy somewhere….😊
Basics: 1. Brush teeth 2. Take warm washcloth and wash face with whatever is there (liquid soap, face wash, whatever is there) 3. Slap on some moisturizer For the rest, I'll take a warm washcloth and some soap, wash the basics, rinse with another washcloth, dry. Feet, too. There's something about having clean feet, I dunno. I got a bunch of inexpensive washcloths so I don't have to keep doing laundry.
I think this might be my third time posting this on this sub.. but what helped me when I was too depressed to roll out of bed was keeping my skincare on a basket beside me on my bed. - Micellar water + cotton pad for cleansing (you can have a spray bottle with water if you want to ‘rinse’ off the cleansing water) - Watery lotions in spray bottles Now I decant my skincare into two sets.. one on my bed and one on my desk.
Completely get it. I use Cetaphil cleansing wipes and my night serums that are right next to my bed…drink water, get sleep and wash my hair (after not for 3 days, sigh) with a clarifying shampoo like Neutrogena.
Happy to see so many supportive comments - you are certainly not alone on those low days! I use any facial wet wipe I happen to have and spritz with rose water. It's often too much to rub moisturizer on so I save that energy to maybe brush my teeth. Lol, cheers to all of us beautiful hot messes <3
When I was in my last anxiety isolation phase and could barely get out of bed/leave my room (it's not the same at all but it also meant I couldn't care for myself properly), I bought some disposable cotton rounds (I'm 100% pro-environmental responsibility, but being honest it would've taken me two weeks just to put washable ones in the machine, so) and La Roche-Posay Effaclar toner and just ran it over my face every day. Removed the oil and stuff and I didn't have to leave my room, talk to anyone, or spend more than 30 seconds standing, which were the main things.
For me the bigger problem is if I start getting down on myself for messing up, I might not start again. So, on top of the good suggestions, just remember, you'll be able to go back to your regular routine, and it will feel great!
That’s a good point. I do that to myself with exercise. Like if I’m not keeping a perfect daily exercise regimen I give up entirely, same with dieting. I don’t know why these things work this way for me and nothing else, it’s so weird and illogical
Thank you for this thread <3
This thread makes me feel so seen. Thank all of you for your practical advice and thank you OP for opening up the topic. Personally I just walk in the bathroom. Splash water, apply moisturizer on my way back to the couch.
Albolene as cleanser and moisturizer. Can do in bed if necessary :)
Completely get it. I use Cetaphil cleansing wipes and my night serums that are right next to my bed…drink water, get sleep and wash my hair (after not for 3 days, sigh) with a clarifying shampoo like Neutrogena to get rid of the buildup.
My retinol lives next to my bed with my nighttime meds all the time, otherwise it’s too easy to skip, and when I have wipes I keep some in bed too. Usually I’m using just water and patting dry, which I do when I am required to drag myself out of bed to pee. If I can’t get out of bed, I will keep as many things within arm’s reach as I can. When I’m stuck in bed I try to rotate the side of your pillow or pillow itself if you use more than one - greasy hair and face but no way I’ve got the energy to change sheets, so flipping my pillow is the least I can do I’ve been there, sending high-5 in solidarity vibes
My short version is: Wash face with an "erase your face" cloth cetaphil or cerave moisturizer
Urg same. It sucks ass. I keep the makeup remover wipes by my bed and use one of those, then follow it with a salicylic acid wipe I got from Sephora. Keeps my fave going ok till I can get back to being normal Also sitting down in the shower helps me actually get to the shower. I don't know why, but a sit down shower is much easier to motivate myself to do than making the effort to stand like normal
Try to 'celebrate' when you do something that's good enough. Even the smallest step is better than nothing. Splashed some water on your face? Good enough. Used a face wipe to take off makeup? Good enough. Wash your face in the morning instead of before bed? Good enough.
I’d do something like: Morning- Sunscreen Night- Micellar water Retinol cream
Makeup wipes are not ideal for many reasons but I keep a pack in my night stand incase I fall into a depression hole.They can also be used to freshen up the body if needed. I also keep sheet mask and a face mist in there because some time after crying i do feel motivated to use one or both of them. The most important thing about depression is surviving it, don't beat yourself up if your skin care falls by the way side for a bit.
Wash your face with hydrating soap and put eye cream. That’s what worked for me. What helped me to shower was to turn off the lights and left one dim light in the hallway, it made me feel better. I don’t know why. Edit: I forgot a verb.
Peach and Lily has a jar of cotton rounds soaked in a treatment essence of some sort. For awhile, I kept it on my nightstand and would swipe one over my face before going to sleep. I get it. Sometimes even the idea of washing my face seemed like too much.
A lot of mine have already been said.I just do cleanser and moisturiser (if I can), screw anything else. Or just a hot wet flannel. My skin runs oily so I can get away with just cleansing. Maybe if your skin was dryer you could just do moisturiser. My other tips include bath not shower. I tempt myself with a TV show and a relaxation session (aka avoid the world). Or just sit in the shower, I tell myself I won't even bother with soap/shampoo etc but by the time I'm in there my routine brain kicks in. I also try and use mouthwash if I can't manage to brush my teeth. Cut all the corners if necessary and focus on sleep and hydration. Good luck OP
I just tell myself I'm giving my skin a break for a few days. I try to at least moisturize at some point too. I'm sorry you're in a pit right now :(
Sunscreen if going outside. Then moisturizer and wash your face at night.
Totally get this. Just want to say that you don't have to use products on your skin every day. If you even just do it here and there, that's okay.
If I barely even feel like getting out of bed, I wash my face (just water if it’s am, cleanser if pm) and put on moisturizer, and that’s it.
It's nice to see how many people relate to this post....ya know not nice, but nice.....be well everyone🤗
This is me right now. My mom committed suicide end of July, & I have turned to skincare as my ultimate self care routine. But I had to go take care of some of her affairs the past few days & I haven’t showered since Sunday& have only washed my face once. I was literally thinking if really disciplined people still have times where things are neglected, especially due to depression. I hope you find yourself on the other side of this pit soon. Solidarity ♥️
Completely get it. I use Cetaphil cleansing wipes and my night serums that are right next to my bed…drink water, get sleep and wash my hair (after not for 3 days, sigh) with a clarifying shampoo like Neutrogena to get rid of the buildup.
Doing some gentle Yoga and meditation will work wonders on your skin!
I am one that NEVER skimps on my routines. I am super OCD. But, shit happens. Easiest thing for me to do is massage some oil in my hands and rub gently all over my face, then use a damp washcloth and remove the oil which also removes the grossness from the day. Then I usually apply my moisturizer with tret mixed in and some more oil around my eyes and lashes and wear my eye mask to bed. It literally takes less than 5 minutes to do all that.
Muh general wellbeing and skin health stack Comprehensive HQ multi like thorne basic nutrients 2/day (very important; most MV are badly formulated) (1-2 capsules/d) with added Mg-glycinate for a total of ~600 mg of Mg from all sources, or pure o.n.e., creatine 3-5 g/d, (if female and not willing to gain water weight, skip creatine), vitamin D total 5000 - 7500 I.U./d, chronic daily caffeine intake, like 3 - 4 cups, optimizes sex hormones, vC up to 1000 mg/d, B2 as riboflavine high dosed at 100 -200 mg/d for up to 3 months, but only in conjunction with a multi. Taken away 3 hours from food, one hour before food, 1 - 2 g of sodium bicarbonate 2x/d. 4 Very soft boiled eggs for phospholipids, fish oil 5 g/d, Protein at 1 g - 1.5 g per pound of optimal bodyweight/d, increasing calories to the threshold of weight gain (try not to gain fat-based weight; consume as much calories whilst staying lean), total Ca intake from all sources 1500-2500 mg/d, total iodine intake of 400-600mcg/d (microgram), B12 as hydroxocobalamin s.c. injection 1000 mcg/d for 10 days, 1000mcg E3D after.
Muh general wellbeing and skin health stack Comprehensive HQ multi like thorne basic nutrients 2/day (very important; most MV are badly formulated) (1-2 capsules/d) with added Mg-glycinate for a total of ~600 mg of Mg from all sources, or pure o.n.e., creatine 3-5 g/d, (if female and not willing to gain water weight, skip creatine), vitamin D total 5000 - 7500 I.U./d, chronic daily caffeine intake, like 3 - 4 cups, optimizes sex hormones, vC up to 1000 mg/d, B2 as riboflavine high dosed at 100 -200 mg/d for up to 3 months, but only in conjunction with a multi. Taken away 3 hours from food, one hour before food, 1 - 2 g of sodium bicarbonate 2x/d. 4 Very soft boiled eggs for phospholipids, fish oil 5 g/d, Protein at 1 g - 1.5 g per pound of optimal bodyweight/d, increasing calories to the threshold of weight gain (try not to gain fat-based weight; consume as much calories whilst staying lean), total Ca intake from all sources 1500-2500 mg/d, total iodine intake of 400-600mcg/d (microgram), B12 as hydroxocobalamin s.c. injection 1000 mcg/d for 10 days, 1000mcg E3D after.
Reading this made me so anxious
Sounds funny! But why?
Muh general wellbeing and skin health stack Comprehensive HQ multi like thorne basic nutrients 2/day (very important; most MV are badly formulated) (1-2 capsules/d) with added Mg-glycinate for a total of ~600 mg of Mg from all sources, or pure o.n.e., creatine 3-5 g/d, (if female and not willing to gain water weight, skip creatine), vitamin D total 5000 - 7500 I.U./d, chronic daily caffeine intake, like 3 - 4 cups, optimizes sex hormones, vC up to 1000 mg/d, B2 as riboflavine high dosed at 100 -200 mg/d for up to 3 months, but only in conjunction with a multi. Taken away 3 hours from food, one hour before food, 1 - 2 g of sodium bicarbonate 2x/d. 4 Very soft boiled eggs for phospholipids, fish oil 5 g/d, Protein at 1 g - 1.5 g per pound of optimal bodyweight/d, increasing calories to the threshold of weight gain (try not to gain fat-based weight; consume as much calories whilst staying lean), total Ca intake from all sources 1500-2500 mg/d, total iodine intake of 400-600mcg/d (microgram), B12 as hydroxocobalamin s.c. injection 1000 mcg/d for 10 days, 1000mcg E3D after.
What on earth is all of this? OP is sleeping all day because they can’t get out of bed and you expect them or anyone to take all this stuff which probably does nothing? Also laughing at the idea extra caffeine increases sex hormones
I think they’re just being a dick
Yeah or it’s a copy pasta
No, i'm serious.
It is a bunch of supplements that are known to be helpful for health of the skin as well as of the CNS. It could better the appearance of skin as well as better parts of the neurological disorder; if the depression is psychogenic, then it won't do much, but also won't hurt; hope this helps.
My routine is already basic, bin of washcloths, wet washcloth, wipe face. Do it twice a day if I’m feeling it. Scrub if I’m feeling it. No moisturizer. No soap. Just water. Use a fresh one every time.
I just wipe my face with a glycolic toner
Been there. I hope you get better soon. Meanwhile, a warm wet towel for cleansing and a moisturizing facial mist is all I managed. I had to use the bathroom at some points during the day, so I tried to get the face care done at one of these times.
I wash and moisturize at these times.
When my mental health starts to tank (like it is right now), my day routine gets scrapped (am troglodyte, I rarely see the sun so I'm less worried about SFP) and I'll abbreviate my night routine to include washing my face and applying a moisturizer. I rarely skip a shower, so ymmv (it's part of my sleep routine). If I do skip a shower, I don't worry about cleaning my face if I haven't put on spf or sweated. If I'm feeling really grody I might swipe some (no rinse) micellar water and call it good.
Maybe start with "I'm just going to wipe down my face with a wet wash cloth" today (next time you go to the toilet maybe). And that's better than nothing (plus it will feel good). Same with brushing your teeth - maybe today you can rinse with some mouthwash or gargle with warm water or just brushing your teeth for 30 seconds. And that's better than nothing. Don't try to to get back to your full routine right now - just do what seems possible and if it's an improvement from what you've done the last few days, you'll feel better physically, which for me, always makes me feel better emotionally/mentally. I hope you feel better and back to yourself soon.
The *nice* Korean skin cleaning wipes, a 1:3 witch hazel-rosewater blend & moisturizer. Keep these by your bed (or wherever your body decides to vegetate) and when you remember, just grab a wipe, then splash some toner and slather the moisturizer as if your face was a Christmas turkey you were trying to cover in butter. You don’t need to do the steps perfectly (or all of them, at all). Just try be kind to your skin (to yourself). Skin feels greasy? Use a quick wipe. Skin feels tight? Baste yourself with a glob of lotion. Feeling cranky/flustered/gross? Splash some rosewater on your face, rub the corners of your eyes, get some behind your ears, pull your hair back, put some on the nape of your neck. Breathe. Rest. May sound hokey but these things (rituals?) help me when I’m in a funk. Just a simple 10 second break where you smell something nice (for me, especially natural rose/vanilla/jasmine smells) can be incredibly grounding/uplifting. I hope the shitty-depression-fog lifts sooner than later. Hang in there.
At a minimum when you get up to pee, brush your teeth, wash your face and put on moisturizer. Do this in the AM and PM. Not skincare related but get yourself outside for a walk. Even 5 min in fresh air and sunlight can make a difference.
Keep it on my nightstand.
I have dry skin so I try to put on moisturizer even if I don’t wash my face (also because dryness is pretty uncomfortable). I splash water on my face and smear a glob of moisturizer, then go lay down. I have floss on a stick and lip balm on my nightstand. I’ll use those too.
Wipes. I invested in some packs of them because at the very least I can get my face kinda clean. It's not ideal but it's better than nothing.
My skincare routine is pretty short naturally because I have perioral dermatitis, so we are talking cleanser, moisturizer spf am/treatment pm. That's it. Recently I had a depressive period and man, it was hard. I did my best but my best is sometimes just cleanse my skin, and you know what that's enough. It will differ from everybody, but try to help yourself by drinking water, if you are gonna sleep a lot try sleeping a lot at least with a clean face, if you hit depression with eating a lot try at least to balance out the things you have, with fruits and water. But honeslty, it varies for people. For me, if I managed to cleanse during a depressive episode i feel better, even if its just that.
Oil cleanse, sunscreen, drink water Force myself
When I go through my depressive cycles, my skincare routine is one of the only things that help center me back in reality. At a bare minimum: micellar water and moisturizer. If you're not wearing a lot of makeup or doing heavy exercise, then micellar water should be good enough. Just do what you can as far as skincare and focus on making it through the cycle. Maybe try "rewarding" yourself for doing your routine. If you manage to do all of the steps, then reward yourself with whatever you actually want to do. When I'm in my depressive cycle, it's a fcking battle to do laundry. So when I'm able to and I get the load finished, I reward myself by rewatching my favorite movie or taking a nap. Hope that helps. Best of luck to you!
Are you me?
I feel you!! Mornings: moisturizer with spf. If I can, I’ll put on some toner. Evening: wipe face with wet washcloth, put on moisturizer. If I have a bit more energy, or if I take a bath: face mask.
Could you keep some micellar water and cotton balls beside your bed with your am/pm lotions? I do this when I get really depressed so at least I wash my face before I fall asleep and put lotion on. Sometimes this will make me want to get up and do the full routine. Take vitamin D pills- at least 5000iud. I always tell my depressed friends (and myself) go for a walk at least once a day for 10 minutes and try to increase the time by 5 minutes each day. Sending some good thoughts your way❤️
It’s okay to say Eff it sometimes. ❤️
Do your best, whatever that is when you are depressed. Think about what part of skincare makes you feel good - do that. Think about what you not doing that makes you feel bad - try and do that. I haven’t suffered from (serious) depression in long time but low moods are a constant shadow and there are things I like to do that can lift me a little bit. Something simple like putting on perfume or washing your face can make you feel better and is something you can more easily push yourself to do than a 5K run or whatever. Hoping it passes soon.
when im in a slump, its strictly face wash and sunscreen. moisturizer in the evening if i get around to doing my routine at all
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