Forget about Netflix and chill. When we need a respite from the cold, harsh elements outside, the bathtub is definitely the place to be. The warm water can make us forget about lengthy to-do lists, looming deadlines and frigid temperatures, especially if we have a good book and music playing softly in the background. While a foaming bubble bath will almost never let us down, bath oils can upgrade the entire experience to spa-like levels.
Bath oils are certainly a welcome addition to the tub on the dark days of winter when central heating and arctic temperatures have left our skin flaky and dry. A few drops of a rich bath oil will turn the water into a fragrant pool that nourishes parched skin without leaving behind a greasy coating. Not to mention pretty colors that rival a bath bomb and a soft, relaxing scent. After a few minutes of soaking, troubles (and dry skin) can seem very far away. Making saying goodbye to the holidays much, much easier.
Get ready to clear that calendar and spend a tranquil spa day at home enjoying these best bath oils.
REN Clean Skincare Moroccan Rose Otto Bath Oil, $48 at Sephora
A splash of this oil in a full tub of water will make it seem like you're immersed in a bed of rose petals. The Moroccan rose otto oil leaves skin softer, while the delicate scent helps calm the senses.
Aveda Stress-Fix Composition Oil, $32 at Aveda
Stress-Fix is music to fried brains. The remedy comes in a calming body oil that can be applied as part of an all-over body massage or added to the bath. Instead of badgering roommates for another massage, use it during a soak in the bathtub. The lavender, lavandin and clary sage composition creates a zen environment as the oil hydrates skin.
Lush Ceridwen's Cauldron Luxury Bath Melt, $12.95 at Lush
Lush's packaging-free oil boasts cocoa butter, oats and lavender. It instantly calms irritated and sensitive skin. Its light scent is also a real treat.
Jo Malone Peony & Blush Suede Bath Oil, $69 at Jo Malone
This bath oil is the epitome of luxury. It's all thanks to its mix of peonies, red apple, jasmine, rose, gillyflower and blush suede.
The Organic Pharmacy Rose & Jasmine Body Oil, $66 at The Organic Pharmacy
We love a multitasker. You can use this oil in the bath, during a massage, as body perfume or even in your hair. It moisturizes all skin types and smells fantastic.
Aromatherapy Associates Deep Relax Bath & Shower Oil, $70 at Net-a-Porter
Relax, take it easy. We know it's easier said than done, but this soothing oil should help. It's a hero product for those who have trouble sleeping. Far better than counting sheep, use the chamomile and sandalwood oil at night for a calming pre-bed ritual.
Estée Lauder Youth-Dew Bath Oil, $45 at Estée Lauder
Experience the classic scent that's still considered one of the sexiest fragrances to have ever been created. The oil has notes of rose, lavender, patchouli, moss and jasmine that make for an indulgent bath.
Susanne Kaufmann Oil Bath For The Senses, $92.50 at Space.NK
Bath oils appeal to many senses. This one not only looks gorgeous in the bottle, the mixture of lavender, ylang-ylang and patchouli essential oils delight our sense of smell. As for touch, smooth, moisturized skin is the ultimate payoff.
Diptyque Paris Precious Oils for Body and Bath, $82 at Amazon
Our favorite posh candle brand also crafts some gorgeous bath products. Pour a capful of this oil into the bath and it neutralizes hard water and acts as a protective emollient. And since this is Diptyque, the oil also smells luxurious. The scent is meant to embody the elegance of Florence with notes of iris, sweet almond, argan oil and cedar.
Avon Skin So Soft Radiant Moisture Bath Oil, $23.99 at Walmart
It's tempting to buy this nourishing bath oil in bulk because it keeps skin super-hydrated. The secret? The formula contains argan oil, which helps lock in moisture. It even doubles as an after-shower softening treatment when applied to damp skin.
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