4 Bodycare Must-Dos to Improve Quality of Life

Before searching for ways to improve quality of life, you should know what the phrase means. So, what is quality of life? Encyclopedia Britannica (EB) defines it, in its simplest form, as "the degree to which an individual is healthy, comfortable, and able to participate in or enjoy life events." You'll hear it mentioned in conversations about healthcare, international development, and finance, among other contexts.

What constitutes a high or low quality of life (QOL) can be incredibly personal. For example: if skincare is an integral part of your daily health and wellness routine, skipping it can negatively impact your life experience. For others, exercise and mindful meditation are their non-negotiables. Some might consider financial excess as the be-all and end-all of high QOL – on the flip side, some are happy to simply meet their basic needs, like food, shelter, and safety.

Given the holistic nature of the concept, improving your overall QOL might seem like a lofty goal. Instead of tackling it as a singular task, it helps to break it down into smaller parts. Ask yourself what you can tweak about your current situation to increase satisfaction bit by bit. If you're here, you must be curious to know how impactful body care can be to your well-being. Say no more! We'll fill you in.

Since many consider skincare (and, by extension, body care) a "luxurious" practice, most people forget it's part of health and hygiene upkeep. That’s right! Yes, it feels nice, but it’s far from frivolous. After all, the skin is your body's largest organ – it only makes sense to care for it like you would your heart or lungs. Here's how even a basic body care routine can drastically improve your quality of life.

Existing in the modern world can wreak havoc on your skin. Pollution clogs pores, weather fluctuations aggravate dryness, and UV rays lead to sunburn (and worse). Practicing consistent body care can help manage those side effects while strengthening your skin against stressors.

When your skin is smooth, supple, and healthy-looking, it's easier not to feel self-conscious. While there's nothing wrong with having imperfections, it's only human for your confidence to take a hit when you're having a "bad skin day." That's why body care can be so empowering. When you’re able to address whatever’s making your skin act up, you can feel more in control of your image.

Making time to focus on yourself can ground you in the present. That's the beauty of soothing routines. When washing up and applying your favorite body cream, the only thing that should matter is you. When you live a busy life, those quiet, stress-free moments do wonders for recharging your spirit.

Are you new to body care? Here’s how to take care of your body with skincare.

You always want to start the day with clean skin, free of dirt, sweat, and irritants. Wash up with LIFEBUOY Antibacterial Bodywash Total 10: it creates a rich, creamy lather that feels ultra supple upon application. Not only does it get rid of germs, but it also leaves you smelling fresher than ever.

Follow up your cleanser with a mild (read: non-abrasive – you don’t want micro tears!) exfoliator once or twice a week. Exfoliating helps buff away skin-dulling dead skin cells and dirt, giving you a more noticeable glow. Try the Dove Gentle Exfoliating Body Wash: it combines Nutrium Moisture Technology with gentle exfoliating beads for smooth, soft-to-touch skin with regular use.

Find a moisturizer that works for your skin type. Go with whatever feels comfortable! You don’t want anything too heavy, or so light that you still feel dry after application.

For example: if you have dehydrated skin, thicker creams might give you relief. But if you're on the oilier side, a lightweight lotion may be better. In any case, layer on your hydrator while the skin is still damp – this helps with absorption! Well-moisturized skin is less prone to problems, like breakouts and excess oil.

Last but not least, never skip sunscreen. It's your best defense against harmful UV rays, which can cause sunburns, premature skin aging, and (God forbid!) skin cancer. Use a formula with at least SPF 30 (for UVA protection – more is better!) and a PA++++ rating (for UVB protection). Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you're sweating or swimming.

How do you improve quality of life? Start small by incorporating these simple body care practices into your daily wellness routine. It won’t transform your life overnight, but its long-term effects on your mental and physical well-being are worth the extra effort.