Spa Substitutes to Try at Home

[Photo by Riley Crawford]

Quarantines, social distancing and stay-at-home orders have no doubt changed life as most of us know it. Like you, we’re majorly missing social outings, school, work, the gym and more. Let’s not forget our coveted ‘alone’ and collective group time spent in spas, salons and wellness centers. Why not take a few deep breaths and transform your home into a beloved spa retreat? It’s one way to pass some time, lower stress levels, and treat your skin and body to some much-needed TLC.

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Between Netflix binging, homeschooling kids and meeting deadlines from your home office, you deserve a break. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite home care products we’ve been swapping in lieu of the spa, from devices and diffusers to skin care, and more. Whether you make it a family affair or a solo endeavor, please don’t neglect yourself during this unprecedented time. 

Try a Device

Dr. Gross Pro Facial Steamer ($149)

I’m a believer in the power of steam. It’s one of the factors that sets spa visits apart from everyday self-care as it infuses hydration, detoxifies skin, and prepares it to better absorb products. I appreciate steam during a facial and can feel the benefits right away. And can we talk about aromatic steam rooms? Beyond the warmth and relaxation, I always leave able to breath better with every inch of my body feeling soft and supple. 

Dr. Gross Pro Facial Steamer brings home care up a notch thanks to micro-streaming technology. Ideal for all skin types, this portable at-home steamer hydrates and purifies skin in as little as 9 minutes. Simply add distilled water, sit back and relax for the start of an incredible at-home facial. Suggested use is 1-2 times a week.

Ecooking Derm Roller ($100)

Missing your medi-spa micro needling appointments? Revamp skin at home with Ecooking’s Derm Roller. Stimulate skin with a system of 540 micro-needles to reduce fine lines, improve the appearance of scars, deep pores or skin discoloration. This at-home tool employs the professional principles of stimulating the skin to repair itself, thus retaining elasticity and balance. All skin types can benefit from the recommended 2-3-minute process, 2-3 times a week.

We tried this tool at night when skin was feeling particularly dry, followed by a moisturizing serum and cream, and noticed visibly plump and hydrated results the next morning. Our roller even came with a disinfecting bottle to add diluted alcohol in order to keep things clean and sanitary. 

DERMAFLASH DERMAPORE Ultrasonic Pore Extractor & Serum Infuser ($99)

When a device offers multiple beautifying benefits, I’m all ears and more likely to use it on the regular. The DERMAFLASH DERMAPORE Ultrasonic Pore Extractor and Serum Infuser is an ultrasonic skincare device that unclogs pores to minimize the appearance of blackheads, and infuses serums and other products deep into skin.

It has two modes that are easy to use, the first being Extraction: a deep cleanse, exfoliation and extraction process obtained by the ultrasonic technology coupled with manual passes over the skin and neck. The next mode is Infuse, which is suggested after applying serum or moisturizer to enhance the penetration of active ingredients.

Wanting to get the most bang for your buck with your extensive serums? This just may be your answer. After testing DERMAPORE I was pleased to finally get rid of dry, peeling skin around my nose for good thanks to the help of more ultrasonic modes. This handy accessory can be used up to 3 times a week for optimal pore-fighting/product penetration.

Up the Ambiance

LAFCO Bluemercury Spa Candle ($65)

When an iconic spa brand partners with an iconic fragrance brand, magic can be made. That’s exactly what happened when LAFCO and Bluemercury came together for LAFCO’s first namesake candle. An ode to wellness in the form of solid soy wax, cotton wicks and Venetian blue hand-blown glass was created.

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Mood-boosting elements come together in this spa-inspired scent, including the freshness of grapefruit, lime, orange and cucumber with aromatic lavender, eucalyptus, basil, rosemary and geranium with cedar wood and sandalwood to complete the experience. Times are stressful—lighten the mood by lighting up this beautiful candle!

Guru Nanda Tower XL Diffuser ($79.99)

Freshen up any stuffy space with the first-ever humidifier + aromatherapy diffuser to instantly change the vibe of your home. The brand’s XL model holds 2 liters of water, providing up to 12 hours of aromatic mist. Boost your mood while experimenting with different oils (think invigorating peppermint orange for daytime and sleepy lavender to wind down before bed.)

Since most humidifiers aren’t made to be used with oils, not only do you get improved air quality but a sensory experience to boot. Noise-free, remote control access, and multiple mist and LED lighting are even more advantageous to this ambiance saver. Oils aren’t included, so be sure to stock up on your signature scents while ordering. 

Perform an At-Home Treatment

MyChelle Ultra Hyaluronic Water Mask ($16.50)

A treatment mask is both calming and effective, especially after exfoliating or using an at-home device. Since I’m always on the hunt for something hydrating and gentle, I was thrilled to discover MyChelle Ultra Hyaluronic Water Mask to use as a deep moisture soak or an overnight treatment mask. Hyaluronic acid, blue agave and prickly pear come together to condition dehydrated skin, soothe irritated skin, and offer protection from free radicals. Affordably priced, this hydrating mask ritual is an easy at-home addition that can be enjoyed several times a week.  

Phytomer Oligomer PURE Lyophilized Sea Water Bath ($11.50)

One of the reasons why we’ve looked to the French for spa and beauty inspiration lies in thalassotherapy, or the idea of using seawater as a form of therapy. Thalassotherapy centers have dotted French coastlines since the 1800s, engraining the belief that the sea yields natural healing properties. Luckily, French brand Phytomer offers an at-home version of this concept in the form of Oligomer PURE: a freeze-dried, sodium-reduced seawater solution containing 104 trace elements essential to cellular balance and vitality.

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Soaking for 15-20 minutes is recommended for a recharge in energy and a boost in cellular functions. Available in single sachets (perfect to tackle jet lag when traveling) or a pack of 20. Plunge into an ocean soak, at-home bath treatment with Oligomer. 

Aura Cacia Lavender Shower Tablets ($7.80) 

No time to linger in the tub between Zoom meetings and homeschooling? We get it. Amp up your shower experience with aromatherapy in the form of Aura Cacia Lavender Shower Tablets. Made from 100% pure essential oils, simply place a tablet in the direct stream of water on your shower floor for an aromatic, spa-like escape. Each box comes in a three-pack, perfect to use on especially stressful days, nights or travel trips. Lavender steam? Yes, please!

DefineMe Payton Whipped Body Polish ($33)

Shed scaly, dry skin for good with an at-home body scrub. DefineMe’s Whipped Body Polish is made with cane sugar to provide a healthy exfoliating action paired with shea butter and coconut oil to lock nourishment and moisture back into skin. We’ve been reaching for the ‘Payton’ scent: a blend of orange blossom, mimosa, clove and musk—a welcoming aroma that lingers on the body. Packaged in a luxe glass jar, this brand gives back by donating a portion of each purchase to fund educational scholarships for girls in need. 

Farmhouse Fresh Pedi Delight Instant Pedicure Sampler ($19)

Elevate your at-home pedicure with this trio mini set that includes an exfoliator, heel treatment and lotion. Honey Lavender Fine Body Scrub is your first step. Natural sea salt, rice bran oil and vitamin E remove dead skin, and provide moisture and nourishment while transporting your senses into a field of lavender balanced with an aroma of raw honey.

Next, holy-grail favorite Honey Heel Glaze can be applied to dry, cracked areas of the feet (or knuckles) and left on like a moisturizer. Live cells including papaya and pineapple are suspended in the glaze to treat rough patches, while honey and aloe vera provide a deep moisture soak.

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The last product in the pack is Honey-Chai Steeped Milk Lotion. Made by an intricate process of slow-steeping, this luxe lotion includes sunflower and safflower oil, along with honey and mushroom extract to lock in moisture and replenish the skin’s barrier. If you’re a sucker for cardamom, you’ll love this infusion of sweet + sultry in an organic coconut milk base. Complete your pedi by applying your favorite polish for renewed and refreshed feet!

Pro tip: The heel glaze can also be used as an overnight treatment. Generously apply to heels and dry spots, and apply dark-colored socks before bed.

Kat Burki Body Butter ($72)

All beauty lovers know that sometimes a well-meaning splurge can really bring you happiness. Luxurious and nutrient-rich, Kat Burki Body Butter leaves skin feeling silky and hydrated with a formulation of cold pressed oils, KB5 Complex and arnica. Elasticity and firmness are restored with the proprietary blend of vitamins and extracts in the KB5 Complex, acting as an anti-aging powerhouse. Quick to absorb into the skin and providing lasting results, the body butter features a luxe fruity scent from head-to-toe. Use on damp skin post-bath or post-shower for best results. 

Brite Vegan Birthday Cake Hair Mask ($12)

If you’re like me, your hair has probably been enjoying a much-needed break from daily styling and heat while staying home. Why not up the ante with a nourishing hair mask while you’re at it? Perfect to use during a relaxing bath since they require 10-15 minutes of time, Brite’s low-irritant formulas are full of nutrients like vitamin E and fatty acids to deeply moisturize locks.

These Birthday Cake-Inspired Products are Super Fun(fetti!)

The array of sweet treat scents includes options like Caramel Macchiato, Blueberry Muffin, and my personal favorite, Birthday Cake. The Australian brand is cruelty-free and makes the process easy by providing a resealable cap that is designed for multiple uses. 

[Images courtesy of brands]

Alisha Racker’s beauty career has spanned over a decade as she's worked as a master esthetician, skin care PR-pro and freelance writer. She lives in the beautiful mountains of Salt Lake City with her husband and daughter.