Once upon a time, in the era Before Babe, when I had smooth skin and all the time in the world to indulge myself with twice-a-day hot showers, I must admit I didn’t think much about skin hydration (or conserving water, admittedly). I could exfoliate and steam open my pores and take a long time to dry off, so whatever inexpensive lotion came in the prettiest ‘leave-out-on-my-shelf-so-my-bathroom-looks-fancy’ jar was what I’d apply. I was warned, mildly, that I would not get to have long showers once the Babe came along, but I was not prepared at all for the reality. Now, when I do have the opportunity to take a hot shower (sometimes twice a week!), it is a functional activity –in, clean, rinse, out, and dry if I’m lucky –before the Babe realizes I’m gone. My skin is dry, my pores are parched, and I really don’t care what my bathroom looks like, as long as the floor is visible. As a result, stealing an extra 2 minutes of steamy, baby-free bathroom time each day is my new indulgence.

Making this secret small luxury all the more worthwhile is VedaMom Purify. It’s a detoxifying moisturizer meant for the face, though I have found it useful on my arms and elbows, too. It has an airy consistency that reminds me of whipped butter, and an herby, complex aroma.

I must admit that it took me awhile to get used to the scent, it was a little too aromatherapeutic for me at first. One night, though, I realized it was actually easing my migraine symptoms, and I was won over. In fact, I am all the more satisfied knowing that the smell comes from actual herbs, like rosemary, and other all natural ingredients and essential oils (especially with a baby who likes to get into things). I put it on quickly before bed (remember Grandma’s overnight cold cream? It’s not like that at all!) and I wash it off in the morning only to find that I have a great healthy glow! Last time I had that, it was called pregnancy. Using this lotion is much easier, and holds an extra special bonus—no morning sickeness!