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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Purdue chapter.

Thanksgiving break is almost here. You made it this far in the school year and you’re needing some time off from hard work. It can put a damper on your break when you’re daydreaming of sipping drinks and jamming to Margaritaville with your toes in the sand somewhere tropical, when in reality it’s 20 degrees out and all you can do is sit on the couch and binge watching Netflix. The best remedy is some much deserved me-time, so pamper yourself with a DIY spa night! 

1. Plan for your spa night and prepare the bathroom ahead of time

This is the most tedious step of a spa night because the preparation can be a lot of work. Clean your bathroom (because relaxing in a dirty bathroom is pretty much impossible), set up the candles, and make any DIY recipes during the day so they are ready for your night of relaxation. Additionally, I like to keep all my spa goodies together in one bag so they are easily accessible.

2. Make a playlist

Depending on what makes you the most relaxed, make a playlist of either relaxing spa music or your favorite songs. Remember, this is the time for you to unwind, so make sure you won’t have to get up often to change songs.

3. Light some candles

Candles are my go-to for a night of relaxation. They provide just enough light to see everything, but dark enough so you can relax. Most importantly, picking your favorite smelling candles will ensure a night of tranquility.

4. Bubbles and bath bombs

A bubble bath is the most relaxing part of a spa night. The hot water will help relieve any tight muscles and the bubbles will make everything smell amazing. If you want, bath bombs are a great addition. They’re perfect for creating silky, soft skin but they can sometimes be a bit pricey. I usually use some from Target that are still high quality, and not too expensive.

5. Skin Care

Taking care of your skin is very important, and when you’re too busy studying you might forget to make your skin a priority. Therefore, a skin care-spa night is very helpful after neglecting your skin for almost half of a semester. First, cleanse your face with your regular facial cleanser. Then, exfoliate using a facial cleansing brush to clear your pores and get rid of dead skin. Next, use a hydrating mask to replenish your skin. Cucumber slices for your eyes are optional, but are great for reducing eye swelling!

6. Hair Masks

If you have any damaged ends, a hair mask is an essential part of a relaxing spa night. There are many recipes out there, but you can always buy one! Not only will most masks heal many of your split ends, but they will make your hair look shiny (but not greasy), reduce fly-a-ways, and make your hair look much healthier.

7. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!

After sitting in a hot tub of soap, it may cause your skin to dry out. Use a moisturizer to replenish your skin of essential oils that may have been stripped by any cleansers or soaps you used. 

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As a sophomore at Purdue University, Abi is pursing a psychology degree with a concentration in I/O Psychology. On campus, she is a writer for Her Campus Purdue, an active member of Zeta Tau Alpha, and the secretary for the Odin Finance Club. When she isn't spending time with her sisters or doing homework, you'll probably catch her binge-watching The Office or Parks and Recreation on Netflix, working the night-shift at First Street Towers, or obsessing over the latest fashion trends. Find her on Twitter and Instagram at @abicheerleader!
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Jennifer Rowella is from Ridgefield, Connecticut. She is a junior at Purdue University studying Speech, Language, and Hearing sciences and is the Senior Editor of Her Campus Purdue. Jennifer enjoys reading, cooking, watching too many episodes of Criminal Minds on Netflix, and being a part of various clubs on campus.