It's hard to believe all that we have endured the past year and a half. Between mask mandates and shutdowns, we have been cooped up in the house longer than we would have ever expected. And while our bodies have experienced change, so has our skin. "Quaranskin" is a whole thing – how our skin has been impacted during the quarantine. You may have been looking in the mirror wondering what's different and how can I get my old glow back? Two words: face mask.
We recently learned the magic behind face masks from Penn Medicine. "The mask traps the moisture or ingredient in the skin and creates film that helps to either hydrate, moisturize, dry or exfoliate the skin depending on the ingredients used and its purpose." Basically, face masks understand their assignment. We also understand our assignment to help you shine all summer. We have rounded up some amazing face masks that will not only revive your skin but feed your soul as a means of self-care.
LUSH Mask of Magnaminty
When LUSH says this is a cult classic, they are speaking facts! Its powerful ingredients intensely clean and exfoliate your skin in ways you can't even imagine. Kaolin, peppermint, aduki beans, and honey work together to discard the debris and promote hydration. Trust us when we say that this is the awakening your face needs.
Glossier Mask Duo greens + moon masks
The tagline: "Two masks to put skin in a good mood." And we love a good mood, honey. Packed with superfruit antioxidants, the mega greens mask detoxes while the moon mask brightens and hydrates. You can use them alone or you can give your skin a one-two punch by applying the moon mask and then the mega greens, in that order. Whether you struggle with hormonal acne, combination skin, or random breakouts, this duo is life-changing.
fresh Mini Rose Face Mask
It's basically self-care in a jar. The real rose petals make this face mask luxurious and we believe you and all your homegirls deserve luxury in all ways. Not only does it soothe and tone, but it also plumps your skin to keep that melanin glowing. 90 percent of reviewers said it nourished and visibly improved the appearance of their skin.
RéVive Masque de Radiance Brightening Moisture Mask
RéVive
The Vitamin C in this souffle-like mask boosts moisture for a radiance you've never experienced. The way the formula transforms from pearlescent white to a shimmering shade of gold is truly magical. If you're struggling with dull skin, you need to add this to your cart ASAP. Best of all, it now comes with a "dual-applicator to invigorate skin with a gentle massage."
Eminence Organic Skincare Clear Skin Probiotic Masque
Eminence Organic Skincare
Did you know that Tamron Hall said she's in love with Eminence's Clear Skin Probiotic Masque? "Sometimes I'll walk the dog with the mask and sunglasses on and scare my neighbors." That means it has to be worth it! Clear skin is much more achievable with this product in your beauty arsenal.
Youth to the People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask
Lather this creamy mask on before bed for bright, even-toned skin. It's formulated with a proprietary Superberry Blend: Maqui, acai, prickly pear, goji berry, sunflower, moringa, squalane. Word on the street is that it's the most tolerable Vitamin C face mask. You'll look forward to your nighttime routine for this reason.
Kiehl’s Turmeric & Cranberry Seed Energizing Radiance Mask
Still nervous about getting a facial in a pandemic? Try this Kiehl's masque. It is an instant facial that will have you looking like a new woman. Turmeric is known for its antioxidant properties so it is ideal for brightening skin. Then, you have the effervescent cranberry made up of antioxidants and resveratrol. The seeds from the cranberries assist in delaminating the skin which equals smooth and radiant.
Versed DOCTOR'S VISIT INSTANT RESURFACING MASK
In just two minutes, this Versed mask begins tackling hyperpigmentation. From lactic to glycolic acids, you can count on Doctor's Visit to make dead skin and dark spots disappear. Your pores will never be happier than after drenching it with this vitamin C-rich pineapple and papaya enzymes mask.
Herbivore Botanicals Prism Exfoliating Glow Facial
Herbivore Botanicals
What's better than rose water and aloe vera? The answer is nothing. That's why this jelly-textured facial is what dreams are made of. It sits comfortably at the intersection of cleansing and exfoliating so you'll notice brighter and softer skin before you know it. It doesn't hurt that the packaging is super cute!
ORIGINS ORIGINAL SKIN™ Retexturizing Mask With Rose Clay
Keeping with the rose theme, we are obsessed with the way this mask makes our skin soft as a baby's bottom. With ease, the clay mask "gently draws out dirt and debris, exfoliates to refine skin's texture and visibly minimizes the look of pores in one simple step." The results? Skin like Beyonce.
Keys Soulcare HARMONY MASK
Manuka honey is known to improve your skin's appearance. Activated charcoal is infamous for being a super cleanser. When you put them together, you get long-lasting hydration and a balanced stillness that is unmatched. We also can't get over the affirmation that comes with this mask: "I walk in my own strength." What a vibe!
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Featured image by Getty Images
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It's easy for couples to fall into a routine, going through the motions and letting their connection sit on autopilot. While comfort is natural in a long-term relationship, it’s important to remember: that what you don’t nurture, eventually fades. So, why not make 2025 the year you reset your relationship? Here’s how to start the year with a renewed bond, reigniting the spark that brought you together.
Step 1: Schedule Your Reset Meeting
The first step to hitting the reset button is a State of the Union meeting with your partner. This is your chance to take a pulse on the relationship, discuss what's working, and identify areas that need attention. It’s all about creating space to reflect, without distractions.
Grab a pen and paper (or open a shared note on your phone) and come prepared to share your top 2-3 desires for your relationship.
What do you both want to feel more of in 2025? Maybe it’s feeling more appreciated, or perhaps you want to reignite the passion you had when you first started dating. Whatever it is, get clear about it, and make sure both of you are on the same page.
This isn’t just about listing your own wants, it’s also about discussing ways to nurture each other’s needs. Relationship goals should be focused on fostering deeper intimacy, trust, and mutual respect. Use this time to check in, not only with each other but with your individual feelings and expectations. Set the foundation for a fulfilling year ahead.
Alistair Berg/Getty ImagesStep 2: Set A Date (Or Multiple!)
Having the meeting is only the first step. Now, it’s time to take action. One of the simplest ways to breathe new life into a relationship is by reintroducing consistent, intentional time spent together. For many couples, life gets busy, and date nights fall by the wayside. But dating doesn’t stop when you say "I do"—in fact, it’s even more essential.
During your reset meeting, lock in a regular date night that works for both of your schedules. This could be a weekly dinner date or an every-other-week adventure—whatever keeps things fresh. The goal is consistency. It’s easy to push date nights aside when life gets hectic, but if you set a specific date each week or month, you’re making your relationship a priority.
If you’re unsure what to do for your date nights, don’t worry! The key is creating new experiences together. This is what sparks excitement and brings you closer as a couple. Whether it’s cooking a new recipe together, trying a dance class, or exploring a nearby town, it’s about creating shared memories that build your connection.
Getty ImagesStep 3: Find an Accountability Partner
Just like you might have a personal trainer to help you crush your fitness goals, an accountability partner for your relationship can do wonders for keeping both of you on track. Consider hiring a marriage coach or therapist—someone who can meet you where you are and guide you in strengthening your relationship.
When selecting a professional, it’s important to choose someone who truly wants the best for your marriage and can provide actionable advice.
Don’t be afraid to set high standards for your relationship, and seek guidance on how to keep it thriving for the long haul. In your reset meeting, discuss your commitment to growth, and be honest about areas where you may need support.
Marriage isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it endeavor—it’s an ongoing process. Regular check-ins with a professional can help keep your relationship in tip-top shape and “divorce-proof” by addressing issues before they become insurmountable.
DMP/ Getty ImagesStep 4: Try Something New Together
Stale routines can easily make a relationship feel monotonous. Spice things up by trying something new! Couples that explore new activities and create new memories together have stronger, more fulfilling bonds.
My husband and I host one of the top luxury marriage retreats, A Weekend For Love, designed to help couples experience new things together. From couples' workshops to outdoor adventures, the retreat provides a platform to rediscover each other and reconnect on a deeper level.
The element of surprise can reignite your connection. It’s exciting, fresh, and shows your partner that you’re committed to growing together. This doesn’t have to be a huge commitment—it could be as simple as trying a new hobby or planning an impromptu weekend getaway.
Your Relationship Should Be A Priority
As you start the year with personal goals in mind, don’t forget the importance of nurturing your relationship. It’s easy to get caught up in work, fitness, and family obligations, but your bond with your partner deserves to be at the top of your list. Resetting your relationship offers an opportunity to reignite that spark and remind each other why you fell in love in the first place.
In 2025, make a commitment to prioritize your partnership, to nurture it daily, and to invest in its growth. Take time to celebrate each other’s victories, support one another’s dreams, and build a foundation of love and respect. When you start the year with a clear focus on your relationship, you’re setting it up for success.
So, before you start mapping out your new workout plan or work goals, do yourself a favor: put your relationship at the top of that list. Your love story deserves a fresh start, too.
Happy New Year, and here’s to a love-filled 2025!
Couples, if you are ready to do the work and invest in your relationship register for A Weekend For Love: Heart Retreat Feb 21-23, 2025.
Featured image by zamrznutitonovi/Getty Images
