We’ve all heard of items such as toilet paper and hand sanitiser selling out during self-isolation, but what hasn't made headlines is that certain beauty products are also flying off shelves, as many people turn to beauty as a form of self-care, or as a means to fill time.
In fact, online beauty retailer, Adore Beauty, reported growth in its face masks (61.2 per cent) and skincare tools (112 per cent) categories for the period of March 23 to April 23. And as most of the world remains in lockdown, it's no surprise that products such as lipsticks and mascaras haven't made the cut. People are instead turning to self-indulgence to make the indefinite time inside more bearable.
“It's been fascinating to see what customers prioritise during isolation,” Adore Beauty CEO and founder, Kate Morris, told The Sydney Morning Herald. “We've always believed that beauty is more about self-care than it is about appearance. People are feeling anxious and uncertain, and looking for products that give them comfort and a feeling of being looked after.”
Sheet masks
It seems sheet mask preferences are generally coming down to desired results and different skin types.
DB Cosmetics’ Hydrating Peach Sheet Mask with Icelandic Water, for example, helps achieve maximum skin hydration. Meanwhile, Andalou’s Instant Brighten & Tighten Hydro Serum Facial Sheet Mask helps lighten, tighten and brighten the skin by targeting UV sun damage and activating collagen and elastin.
And then there’s others, such as the Neutrogena Purifying Boost Peel-Off Mask, which is great for acne-prone skin. It penetrates deep down into skin to unclog pores and remove dead skin cells, excess surface oil, dirt, and makeup, leaving skin clear and soft.
Skincare tools
Pairing a sheet mask or face oil with some sort of skincare tool has also proven to be popular during self-isolation. Think jade rollers, gua sha tools, facial massage devices and more.
The Samson & Charlie Jade Facial Roller is handmade with natural aventurine jade. When used for self-massage, it pushes skincare products deeper into the skin. It also encourages the lymphatic system’s natural detoxification process, as well as “brightening” – by boosting the circulation and blood flow beneath the skin.
To take it a step even further, many people like to keep their tools cool by storing them in devices such as The Beauty Fridge. This in turn delivers an even more refreshing massage, while relieving tension and reducing skin puffiness.
The FOREO LUNO fofo, on the other hand, is a different kind of skincare tool. It is an enhanced silicone facial brush that helps to both deeply cleanse and amplify treatments. When used twice a week, if cleans out the pores, leaving skin super soft and clean, without drying it out.
Home fragrance
Adore Beauty also reported a 105 per cent increase in its home fragrance category, which comes as no surprise considering most people are self-isolating indoors.
According to Glasshouse Fragrances founder, Nicole Eckels, home fragrances such as candles make staying inside more exciting, and they have the ability to transform a mood.
“It’s the tangible feeling of watching the warmth of the flickering light work in tandem with the scent to melt away the stress of a busy day,” she said.
The ECOYA Sweet Pea & Jasmine Diffuser, with its floral fragrance and uplifting notes of watermelon and fresh cucumber mixed with sweet pea and jasmine, is great for keeping spaces such as the living room fresh and inviting.
For the bedroom, Glasshouse Fragrances Kyoto in Bloom - Camellia & Lotus Soy Candle is sensual and soothing enough to deliver calmness and relaxation.
For the study, or for where people are spending time working from home, Eckels said notes like cinnamon or sandalwood can be great for encouraging focus and concentration. MOR’s Scented Home Library Fragrant Candle - Mediterranean Chateau is a great option. It is inspired by the sandy coastlines and aromatic, fragrant gardens overlooking the Mediterranean. It has top notes of saltwater, heart of iris and base notes of sandalwood.
