12 Beauty Essentials That Will Turn Your Dorm Shower Into a Spa Oasis
©Sony Pictures/Courtesy Everett Collection1/13Fun fact ‘bout me: I’m still in college! Holler at all my Penn State-ers out there. OK, school pride aside, let’s discuss living situations. As a senior, I’ve upgraded to an off-campus apartment, but that doesn’t mean I’ve forgotten how awesome dorm life was. It was an amazing experience that offered a much-needed sense of community and taught me so much about living with others. That said, while I do miss certain aspects about my dorm-dwelling days, I most definitely do not miss the bathroom setup. I can still remember exactly what it feels like — inherently cold and devoid of tranquility or homey-ness. And, if you’re anything like me — who cherishes shower time as much as a delicious at-home meal — the whole thing is pretty tragic. But, it’s not hopeless, my friends, and I’m here to show you why. Enter: Operation turn your dorm shower into spa-central. All you need are an array of products (and maybe a few bells and whistles) that elicit all the spa feels. Think luxe body oil, skin-smoothing scrub, and 10 other ballin’ buys that are bound to boost your dorm shower experience. Scroll through for the deets, and be sure to let us know your fave in-shower beauty products in the comments below.
2/13Origins Clear Improvement Purifying Charcoal Body Wash
You heard it here: Never underestimate the power of a good ol’ detox. This heavy-duty purifying wash contains activated charcoal to draw out unwanted toxins and impurities, so you’re left with a lovely, so-fresh-so-clean feel. It also smells like straight-up spearmint and rosemary, which instantly revitalizes your senses in the best way possible.
3/13Josie Maran Argan Sugar Balm Body Scrub
Go ahead and slough off that stressful day — and the dead skin and dirt that tend to accompany it. All you need is a luxe-feel body scrub like this sugar-based one by Josie Maran. Sure, your basic drugstore scrub will probs get the job done, but we’re partial to anything that looks like a sweet-smelling candle and leaves our skin baby-soft — which this one does expertly, thanks to a blend of coconut and argan oils, as well as über-moisturizing shea butter.
4/13Clarisonic Pedi-Buff Foot Smoothing Exfoliant
Treat your feet to some much-needed TLC with this potent scrub by powerhouse exfoliation brand, Clarisonic. Infused with lactic acid, apricot seed, and a tri-fruit complex, it works away at the rough dead skin that builds up on our heels and toes. Use alone or in conjunction with the Clarisonic Pedi Sonic Foot Transformation Device, if you wanna get fancy like that.
5/13Human + Kind In-Shower Body Moisturizer
Having a moisturizer that can be seamlessly applied in the shower takes convenience to a whole new, stellar level. This natural one contains nourishing avocado oil, which leaves the skin feeling ultra-soft and buttery smooth — no lavish spa treatment necessary.
6/13Lavanila Vanilla Bean Creamy Body Oil
Okay, let’s get something straight: Nothing feels more spa-esque than slathering on a delicious-smelling body oil — and this one by Lavanila is everything. Its unique formula is totally non-greasy (despite containing coconut and argan oils), and revives dull skin in a matter of seconds. Apply in the shower or immediately after for silky skin that screams, “I just had an ah-mazing spa treatment.”
null7/13Philosophy Pink Marshmallow Buttercream Shampoo, Shower Gel, & Bubble Bath
It goes without saying that any product with both marshmallow and buttercream in it is going to be, in a word: mind-blowing. And this multi-use formula by Philosophy is exactly that. Lather up and prepare yourself for a sweet experience.
8/13St. Tropez In-Shower Gradual Tan
Forget that spray tan you wish you could splurge on — St. Tropez has got you covered with their groundbreaking in-shower gradual tan. As the name suggests, you apply while you’re in the shower — with the water off — and the result is a natural-looking bronzy glow that develops even more throughout the day.
9/13Lush 93,000 Miles
When it comes to spa-worthy shower prods, Lush brings it on every level. Their shower jellies are some of our all-time faves, and this one, which works to alleviate aches and pains, is obvi no exception. Infused with peppermint and cinnamon leaf oils, you can bet it will leave your bod (and your senses) feeling invigorated. And it’s under $10, so score!
10/13T3 Source Hand-Held Shower Filter
The water from dorm showers can sometimes feel a little — how do we say this? — meh. So, if you’re looking to enhance the overall water quality, try a hand-held filter like this one, which removes 95% of chlorine and impurities. Bonus? Better water equals healthier hair and skin!
11/13Rita Hazan Weekly Remedy Treatment For Deep Hydration & Superior Shine
You didn’t think your spa-like shower experience could be complete without a kickass hair treatment, now did you? (Rhetorical question.) This intense, two-step treatment by Rita Hazan works to completely transform dry, damaged hair with an impressive blend of oils and rice protein — leaving your locks looking shinier, bouncier, and healthier overall.
12/13Shaveworks Pearl Soufflé Luxurious Shave Cream
Who ever said shaving couldn’t be a luxe process? With this rich, deeply nourishing shaving cream, it most def can be. The benefits: it smells delish, diminishes ingrown hairs, and leaves your skin kitten-soft.
tompenpark.com13/13Essio Aromatherapy Shower Kit
Now here’s a game-changer: Your very own aromatherapy essential oils kit, which can be easily hooked up to any shower you want. The starter kit comes with three unique oil pods (breathe, passion, and unwind) that are sure to leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed — aka exactly how you’d feel after leaving a spa.
Oh damn that was only a few short years ago for me, but I think I'd tell myself to just chill and try my best to always live in the moment. College classes and trying to secure internships and all that ... Read More
