Sharing my working-from-home morning routine.
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Do you have a morning routine? I do, but it’s definitely changed since I started working from home in March. (Pandemic fun!) Buckle up and let’s dive in!
Make the bed.
Making the bed just makes me feel more ready to start the day. I’m all about tidying up a room before I leave it (“resetting the space,” if you will), so making my bed right away in on-brand. It’s also a little accomplishment to kick the day off and it’s one less thing you have to do later. Highly recommend!
Shop my bedroom:
A maxed-out a.m. skincare routine.
Working from home means I have the time to do a more robust skincare routine each morning. (It also means I rarely wear makeup– more on this below.)
First: I start by wiping my face down with an exfoliating wipe and then spritzing with that rosewater and glycerin toner I’ve been using for years and years. It provides some gentle hydration and definitely wakes the skin up.
Second: serums! First is the much-loved C E peptides. (I have been using this serum for over a year and it’s so legit!) It’s one of the most expensive items in my beauty routine, but worth it. It contains a super-stable form of highly-concentrated vitamin C, a proven anti-ager and brightener. Vitamin E provides topical protection from free radicals. It’s medical-grade goodness!
Next serum: the Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum, which is a new-to-the-regimen product. I just finished up my first bottle and am now on my second. Peach & Lily is a Korean beauty online store that also developed its own line. “Glass skin” refers to the K-beauty practice of achieving luminous, hydrated, glass-like skin (minimal pores, major glow). This serum is packed with good-for-skin ingredients: peach extract to protect the skin barrier, hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate, niacinamide to soothe and brighten, and a peptide complex to boost collagen production. I love this stuff! It is lightweight, non-sticky, and absorbs quickly.
Third: a little neck cream (which I also bring down onto my chest). This cream from StriVectin is a winner. It smooths wrinkles and crepey skin (I don’t have this just yet, but prevention is the name of the game) and brightens (perfect for the decolletage area). A little bit goes a long way with this stuff, so even though it’s pricey, it lasts a long time.
Fourth: moisturizer to seal in those serums and provide SPF protection. This Garnier moisturizer is a really solid drugstore find– plus it doesn’t have that classic sunscreen smell. It provides a decent level of hydration and has vitamin C for brightening + free radical protection.
Fifth: an undereye brightener to perk up those peepers. I’m not wearing much makeup while working from home, but I pat this peachy-colored cream under my eyes and it just wakes things up. It soothes, blurs, and has a little illuminating effect. It’s not a concealer, but it does soften those dark circles a bit. Plus another dose of vitamin C! (Are you sensing a key ingredient here?) Perfect for wearing under a pair of blue light glasses on a Zoom call.
Sixth: a soothing face oil. This one from Pixi does triple duty: antioxidant protection with turmeric, brightening with– you guessed it– vitamin-C, and hydration with carrot oil. I get a lovely glow from this oil.
Last step: a hydrating lip balm with just a hint of color. Keeping my lips moisturized is so key! Winter = dry air, which can be the road to chapped lips. No thank you. Lately, I’ve been using this one from Dior, but I also love the Pixi colored lip balm with shea butter.
Skincare tips:
- Wash your hands before touching your face (especially if you’re going to be dipping into jars of product). Always touch your face with clean hands.
- Give your serums a little time to soak in before applying the next step. I’ll brush my teeth or apply body lotion, deodorant, etc., to allow for absorption.
- Speaking of serums, always bring them down to your neck and chest (and the backs of your hands if you have extra). You want that anti-aging effect on those areas, too!
- You need SPF protection even in the fall and winter and even if you aren’t going outside. SPF is the number one way to prevent fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots!
Shop my skincare routine:
Bonus round: give the hair and body some love.
If I have time, I’ll slather on a body lotion and scrunch in some hair oil. I love this lotion from Paula’s Choice because it has retinol in it– retinol is another time-tested anti-agers, helping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and boost collagen production. Why not get some of those effects in your body lotion?
This hair oil from Aussie has been in the heavy rotation since I revamped my curl routine a few months ago. It is great for redefining and hydrating curls when you get second-day hair and beyond. It’s mega-affordable, too!
Shop hair and body:
Hydration, vitamins, and supplements.
After I let the dogs out and get them food + water, I get to work on my morning beverages. They are extensive, ha.
Apple cider vinegar. I start with a glass of water mixed with lemon and apple cider vinegar. There are a lot of claims about the benefits of ACV, but the science-backed facts are that it helps with blood sugar levels and contains a lot of good-for-your-gut bacteria. I mix about a tablespoon or two in a 16-oz pint glass with a splash of lemon. (The lemon offers a little bit of vitamin C, but it’s mostly to help mask the ACV and make it palatable.)
Coffee with collagen and adaptogens. I boost my coffee with a few extras. A little creamer (I just used up the last of this maple oat milk from Trader Joe’s) followed by a scoop of collagen and a small spoonful of adrenal adaptogens.
Collagen is not only good to apply topically to the skin, but it can also improve skin health when taken as a supplement. It may also help relieve joint pain, prevent bone loss, and promote heart health. The main benefit you see touted about collagen powder is healthier skin, hair, and nails. Studies are still out about whether or not it really helps hair and nails, but I feel like I’ve seen a positive difference in mine.
Adaptogens are supplements that help your body better respond to stress. I like Dana James’s version because it’s specifically geared to the Wonder Woman archetype (aka over-achieving perfectionists who don’t know how to take a mf-ing break, like yours truly). If you’re curious about your archetype, Dana has a free quiz on her site.
I mix both of these in with a handheld milk frother (which doubles as a mini-mixer). It’s my (cheap!) secret weapon to perfectly-blended beverages.
Greens and reds. Greens and reds are powder forms of whole fruits and veggies. You mix with water to make an easy, get-your-vitamins health drink.
My greens include 50 different vegetables, wheatgrass, beets, spirulina, mushrooms, and more. There’s a little bit of fiber in there, too, as well as some probiotics and prebiotics. Greens help with digestion and are associated with boosting energy levels and supporting immune health. The reds I take contain 48 antioxidant-rich fruits and berries and promote heart and circulatory health.
The brands I get are affordable (there are some seriously expensive versions out there) and I’ve definitely noticed a difference in my digestion, bloating, and energy level. I also feel better about getting my vitamins and nutrients because I’m not always the best about eating the rainbow of whole foods, you know?
The key to making this drink tasty and not just tolerable? Make sure it’s fully blended and super cold. This handheld frother means no random powder chunks, which is always a plus. I use cold water and a scoop of ice, then put it in the fridge while I drink my coffee. By the time I’m done, it’s ice cold!
Shop greens + reds:
That is quite the beverage lineup, I know. One of the biggest pros? I get over 40 oz of hydration before 9 a.m. Staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do for your body.
Aromatherapy.
I don’t know about you, but I’ve been buying all the candles and essential oils since I’ve been working from home. I like to light a candle or get my diffuser going to infuse the house with a feel-good fragrance. Since we’re on the cusp of winter, I’ve been using a lot of basalm and clove.
Inbox check + news perusal.
I sit down at my desk (you can see all my home office details here) and fire up my computers. (Yes, plural. One for work and one personal, two monitors each. Bluelight glasses are pretty essential for me.) I do a quick sweep of my inboxes over coffee, checking for any fires. I also read my daily Skimm email to get a speedy update on what’s happening in the world.
Shop my home office:
What my morning routine doesn’t include:
- Makeup. One pandemic positive is I’ve learned to be more comfortable without makeup. In the past, I’d never show up at the office sans foundation, brows, and mascara– but now I routinely hop on a Zoom call with a fresh face. Also: my skin gets to breathe all day long!
- Getting “dressed.” I don’t wear my pajamas to work in, but I definitely don’t put on real pants. Loungewear and athleisure are the name of the style game in my work-from-home life. I totally understand that some need to get dressed in order to be productive at work (different strokes, different folks), but that’s not the case for me. It’s been nice to take a relaxed approach to everyday fashion this year.
That wraps up my working-from-home morning routine! Has your morning routine changed this year?
Linking up with Elegantly Dressed and Stylish, The Fashion Canvas, I Do DeClaire, Style Splash, Straight A Style, Rosy Outlook + Seeking Sunshine, Jersey Girl Texan Heart, Living on Cloud Nine, Effortlessly Sophisticated, Curly Crafty Mom + Doused in Pink, Mummabstylish, Elegance & Mommyhood, Nancy’s Fashion Style, Confessions of a Montreal Styling Diva, Lizzie in Lace, A Pocketful of Polka Dots, Shelbee on the Edge, My Random Musings, Mutton Years Style and I, Glass of Glam, and Away from the Blue.
I always love getting a peek into others routines. I need to check out some of these serums in your regime! And that Paula’s Choice lotion sounds amazing!
Jill – Doused in Pink
Serums are liiiiife! And yes- this Paula’s Choice retinol lotion is so nice!
Thanks for sharing your skincare routine and loving your bedspread!
https://www.kathrineeldridge.com
Thank you so much, Kathrine!
I also love that rosewater spray!
I haven’t been wearing much makeup either – my company has a ton of calls, but most don’t require video so you bet your butt that I’m not clogging my pores with makeup if I’m not on camera lol
That rosewater spray is SO GOOD and SO AFFORDABLE! I’ve been using it for years and years.
Let that skin breathe, gf! I’m right there with you!
Sounds like you have such a great and cozy morning routine!! I love that throw blanket, it looks perfect for this time of year. Also, your desk space is so cool. I just have one extra screen haha. Great idea with the blue glasses though, I should look into that too! Xx
I really like the blue light glasses for all the blue light I’m exposed to, but they also help “finish” my bare face! Haha!
You have a great morning routine – I loved finding out about your skincare and your morning beverages! I have heard that ACV is really good for you but I hate the taste so I will try to combine it with lemon juice!
Julia x
https://www.thevelvetrunway.com/
Add a little lemon juice and dilute it with water and ACV is MUCH more tolerable! Also make sure it’s cold! 🙂
So fun to learn about your routine. Making the bed is a nice way to start the day. Your bedroom looks gorgeous btw. Love the grey tones. It was also interesting to learn about the products you use. Being able to be fresh faced and not wear make up is a nice benefit to working from home. I’m sure it is good for the skin to breathe. Your home office looks lovely!
Thank you so much, Ivana! I love the gray tones in the bedroom, too! And a fresh face is truly nice- letting that skin breathe is important!
I always have to make the bed!
Jennifer
Curated By Jennifer
Yes! It makes me feel super productive, right away. 🙂
It’s a lovely routine. Mine is just a face cream and also no make up. as little as possible at the moment 🙂
Elegant Duchess xx
https://www.elegantduchess.com/
Yes! Letting that skin breathe is so important!
Thank you for sharing your morning routine! I love exploring new products 🙂
https://www.mariannyc.com/staycation-at-the-langham-nyc/
Thanks for swinging by, babe!
Yes to making the bed, and I could use some eye brightener to perk up my peepers and of course blue light glasses. I have been loving this extra time at home, and honestly am in no rush to return to the office.
Green Fashionista
I am in NO HURRY to return to an office, either! Really unnecessary for my particular job!
I love that you add in supplements and greens to your breakfast Ashley. We are the same way!!!
XOOX
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
It’s a nice way to start the day on the right foot! 🙂
I love these kinds of posts!! I am def. going to check out some of these products. I was sent that neck cream in the past and I love it, I need to stock up on it again. I love fruit, but I def. don’t eat enough greens. I need to check out that Super Greens! Going to pin this and come back to it later!!
Carrie
curlycraftymom.com
I’m the same- getting all my greens is definitely a struggle. This powder really helps!
Your skin care routine looks great! I need to check on the retinol body treatment. It sounds good! Making my bed is the first thing I do in the morning.
xoxo
Lovely
http://www.mynameislovely.com
I’ve been looking into more body treatments rather than just lotion- this retinol is lovely!
Dang girl, I’m impressed! You have that routine down to a science! I use that curl oil and it’s amazing! Smells so SO good! I need to try out that glycerin and rose water spray!
I used to be so good about making the bed! Now my Husband has taken over that task haha. He says he can’t start the day without having it made. Love your pretty room too!
Hey- as long as it gets made, you’re all set! 🙂
Your bed looks so comfy – I’m amazed that you even want to get out of it! That retinoil body lotion would be something for me.
https://www.aproposh.com
I have really been exploring body-focused anti-aging treatments and I’ve learned so much!
Your bedroom is looks so fashionable! I love skincare post!
Thanks for sharing 🌹
♡————————————————————–♡
Fashion┊Lifestyle― HappyEsme.com
Thanks for stopping by! 🙂
I definitely have been bigger on skincare this year than ever before! I have been looking for a good neck cream so I need to check this one out!!
Rosy Outlook
Yesss- it’s seriously good stuff! 🙂
Wow look at all those monitors!! But I totally get it! And for sure making the bed is a must first thing in the morning. It helps set the mood and makes me feel more productive.
http://www.rdsobsessions.com
Haha, I joke that I need more screens- I absolutely do not. But yes! I feel super productive after making the bed, too!
Making my bed is a must for me! That and coffee!
http://www.chezmireillefashiontravelmom.com
Yes! I always feel so productive after I make my bed!
Love your bedroom decor! I’m always looking for new skincare products and need to check out those serums, and serum is so important for good skincare!
Martha
http://www.alovelymessylife.com
Serum is seriously LIFE when it comes to a good skincare routine!
Great morning routine! I love your linings!
Don’t Call Me Fashion Blogger
Facebook
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Thanks, babe!
That’s a fabulous home office set up! The Peach and Lily serum sounds amazing! I need to get some blue light glasses, especially as I’m on the laptop/phone until late. Thanks for linking up!
Emma xxx
http://www.style-splash.com
I need to check out that Peach & Lily serum. And I just clicked on the Paula’s Choice retinol body lotion, it looks so good 🙂
https://www.chicnpink.com
Have had my eye on that neck cream, wondering if it was worth the hype.
Also, retinol body care! You peaked my interest
XX Angelica
https://eraenvogue.com
Thanks so much for sharing your morning routine! I love that throw in your bedroom and your office set up is awesome!!
I also use rosewater. Can’t live without it. It’s especially good in the morning.
http://www.fashionradi.com
I love this product!! Pixi is very good
Cool post i like it
I like this Dior lip balm ❤
Hello
I do nothing before making the bed !! I liked to know about your beauty routine, and your work corner is so beautiful! and, your room too!
xoxo
marisasclosetblog.com
Such a perfect routine and lovely bedroom!
Kisses, Paola.
Expressyourself
My Instagram
Your working space is sooo beautiful, I’d get dressed just to get there!
LackaDaisy
I’m also enjoying most of my days without make up and it actually feels good to let my skin breathe more.
Thanks for sharing all theses tips.
xx
Margot
https://troughthepasturesofthesky.com
Great routine! It is so important to make the bed and nourish oneself every morning 🙂
Lindifique
Love this look at your morning routine! I’m living in joggers and CC cream lately 🙂
Thanks for sharing your morning routine with us in such detail, Ashley! Also can I just say those sheets are gorgeous??
That was a fun read, Ashley! Thanks for sharing your daily routine with us. I absolutely adore your bedroom decor! And apple cider vinegar is one of my favorite natural remedies for about a million different things! Thanks for linking with me.
Shelbee
http://www.shelbeeontheedge.com
Thanks for sharing. I am always unsure of what to use.. in what order.. how many things can be layered upon each other.
I just started to take vegan collegen tabs a week or two ago..
I really need to improve my morning skincare routine!
Danielle xx
https://www.thereluctantblogger.co.uk/
Nice skin routine! I don’t know the products but they seem to be pretty good.
Kind regards,
Leonie from http://eyeofthelion.de
nice seeing how your routine has changed! I really need to try serums in the morning – I just don’t have a lot of time to get myself and the kids ready so I usually just cleanse and moisturise, haha! I do use serums at night though 🙂
I only wore makeup when I was in the office twice a week so I’m not really seeing much difference but I’m sure it’s better for my skin overall not putting makeup on at all!
Hope that you are having a great week! It’s a wet and stormy one here, summer rains have arrived!
Away From The Blue | Handbag Gift Guide
Your routine has some of my fav products! I love them as they works well on my skin!