Mastering the Art of the Perfect Bath

Elevate Your Bath to Spa-Level Luxury: Expert Tips for the Ultimate Relaxation

A good book, a cup of tea, a night out with friends—these are just a few of life’s simple pleasures that help us unwind after a stressful week. Yet, nothing quite compares to the transformative power of a relaxing soak. While spas offer an unparalleled experience, they aren’t always convenient or budget-friendly. Thankfully, creating a spa-quality bath at home is entirely possible. We consulted dermatologist Dr. Rachel Nazarian and Bathing Culture cofounder Tim Hollinger to uncover their top tips for crafting the perfect bath experience.

Expert Insights for a Dermatologically Approved Bath

Dr. Rachel Nazarian, a board-certified dermatologist with Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City, emphasizes that the ideal bath is often misunderstood. “Dermatologically speaking, a perfect bath should last no more than 15 minutes, with lukewarm water and no perfumed or scented bubbly cleansers,” she advises. “Super hot, long baths with lots of soap and fragrance weaken the skin barrier, leading to dryness, irritation, and inflammation.”

Preparing Your Bathtub Oasis

To transform your bathroom into a serene retreat, Hollinger suggests several simple yet effective steps.

1. Set the Scene: Keep your bathroom clean and clutter-free. “Add some plants or a flower cutting, put on some low-key music, and gather a pile of plush towels next to the bath,” recommends Hollinger.

2. Rinse the Tub: Remove the shower curtain and scrub the tub lightly to ensure a clean soaking environment.

3. Perfect the Temperature: “Bath temperature is key,” Hollinger notes. “We recommend around 107 degrees Fahrenheit—hot but not scalding.” Remember, excessively hot water can strip your skin of moisture.

4. Add Soaking Salts: Enhance your bath with mineral-rich salts. Magnesium salt flakes and Epsom salts are excellent choices for relaxing muscles. “The best soaks use blends of different types of salts,” says Hollinger, citing Bathing Culture’s Big Dipper Mineral Bath as a favourite.

5. Use Calming Ingredients: Dr. Nazarian advises using oatmeal-based cleansers and chamomile oils, which are less likely to irritate the skin. Avoid citrus-based oils that can be harsh.

Creating the Perfect Ambiance

The ambiance of a spa is an integral part of the experience. Here’s how to replicate it at home:

1. Light Candles: Candles can set a tranquil mood. Choose unscented candles for soft lighting or your favourite scented candles for an immersive experience. Be cautious with competing aromas to avoid sensory overload.

2. Essential Oils: Add at least 10 drops of essential oils to your bath. Lavender promotes relaxation, while rose and geranium are also soothing. Bath oils can protect your skin from the effects of hot water, so opt for hydrating products.

3. Snack Smartly: Enhance your self-care ritual with a light, healthy snack. Hollinger prefers crisp grapes and suggests pairing your bath with a glass of wine or a cup of tea. Always keep a cold glass of water nearby to stay hydrated.

4. Comfort is Key: Ensure your comfort with a bath pillow or a rolled-up towel under your neck to prevent stiffness.

Making the Most of Your Bath

Maximise your bath’s benefits with these additional steps:

1. Read and Unwind: Use this time to catch up on your favourite book or magazine. Hollinger advises against bringing digital devices to the tub to escape from digital noise.

2. Get Creative: The bath can be a sanctuary for creativity. “I know people who paint, pull tarot cards, light incense, or bring crystals into the bath,” says Hollinger.

3. Apply a Face Mask: Enhance your skincare routine by applying a face mask during your bath. Whether it’s a hydrating, soothing, or purifying mask, let it sit for 10 minutes and then rinse off with a warm washcloth.

4. Exfoliate: After soaking, exfoliate your skin with bath mitts or an exfoliating soap bar. DIY scrubs made from coconut oil, brown sugar, or oatmeal and honey can leave your skin feeling soft and supple.

5. Finish With Moisturizer: Hot water can dehydrate your skin, so follow up with a good moisturizer. Focus on areas prone to dryness, like elbows and knees. For added hydration, apply a body oil over your moisturizer to lock in moisture.

Rediscover Tranquillity and Self-Care

“There is a special moment while bathing when your body and the water temperature reach equilibrium, bringing a sense of calm akin to the safety of the womb,” says Hollinger. “To make the world a better place, we must first take care of ourselves.”

By following these expert tips, you can create a luxurious, spa-like bath experience in the comfort of your own home, elevating your self-care routine to new heights.