Feelin’ cute, might plan my entire life around the lunar phases IDK.
( Nastya Dulhiier / Unsplash )
We’ve all seen those Mercury in Retrograde memes that seem to explain why our lives may feel especially hectic for weeks at a time. As someone who double-majors in skincare fanaticism and being the typical “astrology friend”, I thought I might try to mix my passions and see how astrology could help bring your skincare routine to the next level. Let’s take a look at how the moon may be influencing us throughout her many phases.
The moon has a significant impact on ocean tides, so some believe that it can also affect the human body since we’re made of 60% water. The moon has been a historical symbol for the concept of sacred, divine feminity. It represents compassion, sensitivity, and a deep connection with our feelings. When it comes to self-care, it never hurts to have such a clear reminder of gentleness and emotional vulnerability. Here's a breakdown of some lunar beauty tips for each phase of the moon:
Moon Phase Guide
🌑 New Moon
🌒 Waxing Crescent
🌓 First Quarter
🌔 Waxing Gibbous
🌕 Full
🌖 Waning Gibbous
🌗 Third Quarter
🌘 Waning Crescent
New Moon
New Moons or “Dark Moons” symbolize awakenings and new beginnings, so this may be the perfect time to start a new healthy habit or add a step to your usual skincare routine. To really put the “fresh” in fresh starts, you might want to kick off a new lunar cycle with a Vitamin C face mask or serum. Lately, I’ve been in love with Lumene’s Nordic-C Glow Boost Essence Serum ($16).
Waxing Moon
The Waxing Moon period in the lunar cycle includes the New Moon, Waxing Crescent, First Quarter, and Waxing Gibbous phases. These phases are considered the more “fertile”, meaning it’s a great time to think about all things involving growth, strengthening, and nourishment. These two weeks may be the perfect opportunity for trimming the dead ends off your hair to allow for faster growth or getting a manicure as your nails will likely be at their strongest.
Full Moon
Full Moons are all about feelings of fulfillment, wealth, and abundance. Form an astrologer’s perspective, this is when your skin is most receptive and welcoming of rejuvenation. This is the perfect opportunity for an “out with the old, in with the new” session of exfoliation, followed by a calming bath and full-body moisturization.
Full Moons also have a reputation for eliciting chaos and strange behavior. Although some may see it as pure coincidence, there tends to be an increase in violent crimes, traffic accidents, and emergency room admissions on Full Moon nights. Instead of texting your ex or cutting bangs for yourself, maybe get a few extra Zs after a little CBD to reduce inflammation and increase relaxation. Truly Beauty’s line of CBD Jelly products has my heart lately, and their Glycolic Acid-based formula is perfect for any acne flare-ups.
Waning Moon
The Waning Moon phases include each stage in the lunar cycle until the next New Moon, meaning the Waning Gibbous, Third Quarter, and Waning Crescent. This stage is all about slowing down and releasing what’s not working for you. It follows that things grow slower at this time, making it an ideal time to shave or get a wax done.
I can see why this would be a great time to detoxify, whether it’s cleaning up your diet, finding your inner balance with some yoga and meditation, or making time for some facial massages with a gua sha or facial roller. Pro Tip: keep your face massage tools in the refrigerator for a bit for a cooling sensation that helps depuff and soothe your skin.
I highly recommend planning a personal spa night on May 26 when we’ll be seeing (but not looking directly at) a Blood Moon Total Lunar Eclipse. So plan accordingly, all you skincare junkies.
Samantha Redditt is an Online Writer at Rowdy Magazine. She enjoys long, romantic walks to the nearest coffee shop and roller skating to obscure Spotify playlists. You can reach her on Instagram at @samantharedditt for more information.
thinking about getting into this more I love the vibes