Room Service Spa Tips
We’ve been know to do a little traveling around the world (ahem) which can wreak havoc on our skin and hair. Recycled airplane air, extreme fluctuations in temperature, changes in diet…all these travel factors often result in skin irritation and lackluster hair. But did you know that the chemicals that are found in many hotel room shampoo, conditioner, lotions and soaps can actually further strip your hair and skin of moisture?
One day, while waiting for room service to come pick up a dinner tray, we realized how many great, natural DIY skin products were on it. Since then, we’ve come up with even more common room service items that are better for your body than the little tubes and bottles provided in the bathroom.
We share some of our tips below in an interview we did with Fox News Extra, and list them (plus a couple more) underneath the video. (If video doesn’t appear, click here)
1. Mayonnaise. Mayonnaise is a fantastic hair conditioner. Its natural proteins and lipids work wonderfully to help smooth hair and add shine. After shampooing, simply rub a packet or spoonful of mayonnaise into your hair and let it sit for about 5 minutes. Then rinse thoroughly under warm (not hot) water.
2. Olive Oil. Rich in vitamin A and E, Olive oil has always been rumored to be the skin care secret of Italian women. Order some with your salad or bread basket, and right before bedtime rub some directly on your face and body just like you would any lotion. It will rinse completely off in the shower the next morning. If you want, you can also add a little spritz of your favorite fragrance to the oil before applying.
3. Oatmeal. Oatmeal is a terrific skin mask. It’s slightly abrasive, so helps remove dry skin after long airplane flights. It also has properties that help sooth irritated skin. Save a few teaspoons from your breakfast bowl and mix it with a packet of sugar to boost exfoliation and create hydroxy acids. Rub the mixture onto your face, allow to dry for 5-10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
4. Tea Bags. Tea bags have natural tannins that can help reduce puffiness under your eyes, and some also claim help reduce dark circles. Place a used, moist (not hot!) tea bag over each of your closed eyes. Lie down and relax for 5-10 minutes, then remove and rinse if necessary. (Try sliced cucumbers from your salad as well…without salad dressing, of course.)
5. Honey. Honey has natural anti-inflammatory properties as well as some anti-bacterial benefits. It usually comes in small packets or tubes when you order tea service to your room, or sometimes can be found at the coffee/tea bar in the hotel lobby. We use honey as a spot treatment for minor abrasions. Or, if you’re prone to acne breakouts, mix a little honey with some salt from the shaker, rub on the acne spots, and leave overnight.
