Is it finally time to treat ourselves to a shell day? A day “off” that helps us recharge and consciously rediscover the pleasure of self-care
In a present where burnout is almost the norm, self-care is increasingly becoming a real triggering topic. The most hyped rituals, such as the ultra-long everything shower or the loved-and-hated Korean skincare routine, according to the POVs of many beauty creators and industry experts, promote a rather unrealistic and performative idea of self-care. Yet, despite this, we remain fascinated by them, as if among those countless steps of cleansing and in&out purification there were the antidote to every anxiety and worry. I’m also one of the many victims of #beautytok and its quirky rituals, and it’s precisely there that I discovered the shell day trend, a day entirely dedicated to our favorite beauty pampering.
What is a shell day?
On days when stress risks taking over, unplugging and dedicating time to self-care can be lifesaving: this is the concept behind the shell day philosophy. Just like a snail that protects itself in its shell when faced with harsh conditions, the walls of our bedroom or bathroom become a comfort zone where we can retreat to rest (and restore ourselves) for as long as we want. There are no time limits or strict schedules, only the need to get back on track and face the remaining days of the week with at least a small dose of calm. However, like any self-care routine that racks up millions of likes, it’s important to approach it thoughtfully and mindfully, always listening to your own needs.
What can we do during a shell day?
Most content creators on social media plan their shell day with rituals that include lash extension touch-ups, applying self-tanner, or experimenting with different makeup trends. All great ideas, no doubt, but if you’re not into these treatments, you can shape your restorative day exactly how you like. Whether it’s a more thorough skincare routine than usual, a walk outdoors to test the sunscreen you recently bought, or a body care routine that makes you feel like you’re in a five-star spa, all it takes is dedicating time to anything that helps you rediscover the sense of well-being lost in everyday life. In this wide shopping gallery, we’ve selected some must-try products for an unforgettable pampering moment. Don’t thank us.