Girl-on-the-Go Beauty Hacks for Busy Ladies
As a plastic surgeon with my own surgery center, I’m what one might call an ultimate ‘girl-on-the go’. Every segment of my day, even my free time, is planned out. When I’m not in the O.R., I’m spending time with my kids, unwinding with a work out, or seeing friends. To get through all the different phases of my day, I need more than a few tricks up my sleeve to keep myself looking as together as I feel. Here are a few of my favorite beauty and lifestyle hacks for fellow girls-on-the-go, to provide that extra boost of confidence while juggling plates.
Peppermint Oil
A heavy workload can leave you feeling less than radiant. Need a quick, natural fix? Peppermint oil. This essential oil stimulates the circulation under the skin, bringing brightness to the cheeks and face. It can also stimulate the blood under the lips, creating a swelling effect, making your lips look fuller. All you need to do is grab a Qtip and dab two drops of this oil, then apply. It’s an easy, natural way to brighten up when you’re most bogged down.
Facial Wipes Next to the Bed
At the end of a demanding the day, it’s easy to forget to wash your face. Yet, as any dermatologist knows, keeping your face clean and hydrated is essential to any skin care regimen. For the busiest days, here’s a trick: keep facial wipes for cleaning your face placed next to your bed so you never forget. Keep a vial of moisturizer or eye serum next to them as well so you can moisturize before bed, and wake up fresh faced.
A ‘Quick-Change’ Bag
When you’re running between roles and tasks, you might need a wardrobe change. I sometimes have to swap my scrubs for workout wear, and then change into a business casual look all in the course of one day. To keep things easy, I keep a ‘quick-change’ bag at the office, which has essentials I might need that week: I might put in basic jewelry to glam up a simple outfit for a dinner, or running sneakers to go on a short hike or power walk if I want a breath of fresh air. This is my version of Clark Kent’s phone booth, and gives me the flexibility I need throughout my day to get everything done while staying stylish.
Add Fresh Herbs
When it comes to planning meals, you can save time and energy by taking a staple lunch or snack item and spicing it up with fresh herbs. I have a fresh herb garden, and like to use herbs like chives, rosemary, and thyme to bring flavor and zest to what otherwise might be a boring salad. Instead of wasting time coming up with new recipes or planning a new grocery list every week, find some staple favorites and add variety with herbs from the garden. An extra perk? Herbs have vitamins and minerals and won’t add to the waist line.
Feet First
As a surgeon, I’m on my feet all day. I love my job, but don’t necessarily have time for a weekly pedi to keep my feet pampered. If your heels start to feel rough or your skin starts to crack from running around all day, give yourself a relaxing foot treatment while you sleep for smooth, soft sandal-ready feet. Cover each foot with a healing foot lotion or oil, and slip them into socks before hopping in bed at night. In the morning, your feet will be soft and smooth.
When you’re a girl-on-the-go, there’s always more to do. But just because you’re busy doesn’t mean you can’t feel fabulous. With a few beauty and lifestyle hacks, you’ll find you can take care of business and feel beautiful doing it.