The Movement Control Order that was enforced four months ago was eye-opening in many ways. One of it was the need to be self-sufficient, especially where self-care is concerned.
With hair salons and spas closed, shopping limited to groceries and make-up applied for Don't Rush challenge (instead of going out with family or friends) everyone was finding ways to make herself feel better without stepping out of the house.
Some found TikTok. Some found cooking talent and mishap. Me? I considered myself lucky if I could breeze through my day in one piece.
Being cooped up at home with a toddler who was constantly asking for attention while I tried to work from home did take its daily toll and I realised when I showered in the evening, when my son was asleep, that my Aesop Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser (which I used until the last drop) was my daily sanity saviour.
It was at that time that I found a deeper appreciation for my evening shower routine and my bath gel. I've always liked good quality bath gels but until the MCO, the effects were mostly transient.
But during MCO, my body cleanser made me feel so much lighter and relaxed after each shower.
NEW ADDITION
Post-MCO, the Melbourne brand launched its newest bath gel, the Citrus Melange Body Cleanser and I was as excited at it as Cookie Monster would be with a plate of cookies.
Aesop fans love the brand for its botanical scent and minimal packaging. And I'm happy to report that this new addition is just as good as its predecessors. There's a slight bitter scent to it, given that it has lemon and grapefruit rind, so don't expect a fresh orange scent.
What you get is a mild, low-foaming shower gel that's very kind to the skin with a bitter, citrus accent that gives a slight burst at the end of the rinse.
I find the scent to be milder than the Geranium Leaf, my favourite for many years. But in terms of performance, they are both on par with each other. What I like is the gentleness of the concoction.
UPLIFT THE SPIRIT
I tried it in the shower and was delighted by the scent and by how light it was on the skin. It washed off very easily, leaving no residual film on the body. Suds are small, meaning it doesn't dry skin as much.
Its scent is relaxing, so it's best to keep it for evening shower when you need the extra TLC after a long day. The best part with this, and with any Aesop bath product, is that the scents are not gender-specific. They are not too woody or floral, and great for sharing.
It comes in two sizes, 500ml with the option of a pump dispenser which is hygienic and a 100ml travel-friendly size.