I have to say, I think I probably spend most of my winters with a cold. My immune system has definitely taken a hit since I started university. That being said, I am still in university, and I (unfortunately) do not have the time to lay in bed all day to wait out a cold. If your colds tend to last a few weeks like mine, then you know we don’t have that kind of time to waste. Here are some tips for when you need to pull yourself together, but you’re feeling under the weather.
Now is not the time to skimp on moisturizer
Ottawa can be dry in the winter as it is, but especially when I have a cold, I find my skin can be extra flakey. I always carry a small makeup bag around with me containing the essentials: lip balm, hand cream, a mini packet of Kleenex, some Advil cold, and a mini travel size of my moisturizer (for when my nose gets flaky from all of the Kleenex!). I always find myself reapplying my moisturizer pretty often in the winter months, but if you’re wearing makeup, then I also recommend having a moisturizing mist or setting spray with you!
Minimal makeup
I’m not one to skip my makeup entirely, even when I am not feeling well. That being said, I will usually pass on the contour in lieu of some extra rest. To keep myself looking fresh, and to avoid those “wow, you look awful!” comments, I stick to a few essential makeup products. First, I like to apply a little bit of tinted moisturizer to even out my skin tone. My can’t-live-without-it product is definitely blush. I use a cream-based one from Nars, which helps add a little colour back in my face. To finish off, I’ll throw on my best mascara to make my eyes pop, and look more awake, and I’ll apply a tinted lip balm (my favourites are Burt’s Bees and YSL).
Eucalyptus + scarf
When I am not feeling well, I will often trade my perfume and opt for a eucalyptus essential oil instead. I like to put a couple of drops on my scarf (something I am never found without), and then a few around my nose, which helps me breathe more clearly. Now, if you have never been introduced to Vick’s VapoRub, you are missing out. It’s an ointment that’s infused with eucalyptus and it definitely helps me breathe better as well as suppress my cough. It’s also perfect for applying on your chest and neck underneath of your scarf.
The right layers
If you have a cold or the flu, you know the struggle of dealing with conflicting temperatures. One minute I’m sweating and the next I’m so cold, I’m shivering! Because of this, I like to make sure I’m wearing layers to accommodate for all of the possible temperatures. I often wear jeans with a tank top, and a super cozy cardigan over, as opposed to my usual blazer. That way my outfit checks all the boxes: comfortable, cute, with the option of taking off layers. If you’ve ever read any of my other articles, then you know I live by the rule that comfort does not have to mean sweats. I always like to look a little put together, even when I’m wishing I was in my bed, 3 layers deep in blankets.
We all have those days when we just can’t afford to be sick, so I hope these little tricks will help you get through your yearly winter colds!