Slow lives
Photography by Jo Ritchie
Art Direction by Emma Morton
A creative duo have taken their need for home pampering into their own hands, developing ‘Slow Beauty’ a series of beauty remedies and treatments, that can be made from ingredients found in your kitchen cupboards.
The idea for Slow Beauty came about as Art Director, Emma Morton and Lifestyle Photographer, Jo Ritchie, recognised people in isolation would like to do some pampering but can’t necessarily afford, or get access to, luxury products. Slow Beauty is the perfect antidote to days spent lounging, lazing...and more lounging. Inspired by the global slower pace of life and looking for a way to channel their creative energy, ‘Slow Beauty’ is the first in a series of treatments and accompanying still life photographs called ‘Slow Lives’, which have been styled and photographed from their respective homes, using kitchen staples, household props and the power of a now-very-well-known video conferencing platform.
Our original idea came from needing a creative outlet during the lockdown but wanting to put something into the world with a bit of purpose, something people could also use to pass some time. Luckily, I have quite a colourful house! So the aesthetic quickly became about using the food with the wall colours and a slightly odd selection of props, hopefully creating serene and beautiful scenes like you might see in a Wes Anderson film. I have also always been inspired by old Dutch Masters paintings so it was great to go back to basics with a food-based still life concept.“
Jo Ritchie
“We scoured the internet to find recipes that looked delicious, but you wouldn’t want to eat! Inspired by the colours of the ingredients, we gathered eclectic props and made use of every nook, cranny and spare wall in our homes, to create images that capture the stillness of recent moments and the slower pace we are now living. We liked the idea of making an everyday item look beautiful—like when you suddenly see something in a new light. Despite not being in the same postcode, this project was a really enjoyable collaboration during such an isolating time.”
Emma Morton
Invigorating Coffee Body Scrub - Skin Smoothing & Firming
Ingredients
1 cup ground organic coffee (used grounds are best, just dry them first)
1 cup brown sugar (even caster sugar works to scrub)
½ cup coconut oil
½ tsp vanilla extract
5-10 drops of your favourite essential oil (optional)
Instructions
Heat the coconut oil until it melts to a liquid consistency. Allow to cool, but not re-harden.
Stir in the dry coffee grounds and sugar, until all are thoroughly combined.
Add the vanilla essence and stir (you can add any other drops of essential oils you like)
Store the mixture in an airtight mason jar or another glass container.
How to apply
Use about a tablespoon or two 1-2 times a week in the shower for an all-over glow and moisturised skin. The coffee granules can be a little messy so be prepared to rinse the shower down after!
How it works
Brown sugar is a natural humectant that pulls moisture from its surrounding environment, so when it’s used in a scrub it deposits the ‘borrowed’ moisture into your skin. It also contains hydroxyl acid which sloughs away old skin cells and promotes the growth of new skin.
Coffee contains caffeine, which helps with firming, toning and tightening of the skin. It’s actually best to use ground that’s been used, as the hot water has already activated the powerful ingredient in the beans and it reduces unnecessary waste. Source: Deborah Burnes’ book Natural Beauty Skin Care
Coconut oil contains Vitamin E, which is an antioxidant, preventing premature ageing and wrinkles. Making your skin smooth and radiant, it can also be an effective moisturizer and aid in the treatment of dry skin and eczema.
Cider Vinegar Food Soak - Soothing and detoxifying
Ingredients
¼ cup apple cider vinegar (organic if possible)
1 tsp oil of choice (avocado, olive or coconut)
Warm water
Shredded fresh mint if available (or 2 mint tea bags or peppermint essential oil)
Instructions
Measure the vinegar and oil into a dish or washing up bowl large enough for your feet to be submerged in.
Add enough warm water to cover your feet.
Stir in the fresh mint, peppermint tea bags or essential oil to take the edge of the vinegar smell. Once you get used to it it’s not so bad—promise!
How to apply
1. Turn on Netflix, find a comfy seat and soak your feet for 15 minutes in the bowl.
2. Use a cloth to rub dry skin off heels and rub off any excess oil.
How it works
Apple cider vinegar is full of alpha hydroxy acids -these are often added to skin care products to help remove dead skin cells. The acids in apple cider vinegar are from a natural source, making them alive, active and more powerful, It also has anti fungal properties which is great for feet.
Benefit Source: Deborah Burnes’ book Natural Beauty Skin Care
Silky Smooth Hand Oil - To Combat all That Washing!
Ingredients
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (organic if possible)
A few drops of fresh lemon juice
Instructions
This one couldn’t be more simple–just mix the two together. Done.
How To Apply
1. Ensuring there’s no cuts apply the mixture to your palms and rub into both your hands
2. After you’ve rubbed it in take a damp cloth and pat your hands to take away any excess
3. Ideal to use before bed so it soaks in overnight (the oil will soak in fast) ready for soft hands in the morning
How it works
Olive oil is full of antioxidants which the skin loves. In particular a micro nutrient called polyphenol which protects the skin from UV rays. It also has vitamin E which is known to preserve youthful skin and can help reduce fine lines.
Lemon contains phytonutrients, which are skin-healthy chemicals derived from plants. The scent of lemon is also known to be uplifting.
Benefit Source: Deborah Burnes’ book Natural Beauty Skin Care
