This June, we dedicate ourselves to ourselves wholeheartedly. It’s about recognising our worth and making time for personal well-being in this busy world. You truly matter.
In the relentless rush of modern life, especially in cities like Lagos, it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly juggling a dozen different things at once. Career, family, social commitments, personal growth — the demands on our time and energy can feel endless. In the midst of this beautiful chaos, the idea of setting aside time for yourself often slips to the bottom of the priority list, almost feeling like a luxury we can’t afford. But what if I told you that tending to yourself isn’t a luxury, but a necessity?
This month, I want us to pause, take a deep breath, and rediscover the profound joy of looking after ourselves. It’s about encouraging each of us to find dedicated time for self-care, no matter how busy life gets. For me, that balance comes from the simple but essential things: sleeping well, eating well, and taking care of my body from the inside out.
Beauty, in its purest form, is as much ritual as it is anything else. It’s about the conscious, deliberate acts you perform to nurture your mind, body, and spirit. This June, we’re focusing on refinement — choosing what replenishes, what invigorates, what allows you to show up feeling your absolute best. From jewellery that births springs of joy within to skincare that protects, and sleep time treats that make dozing off at the end of the day just as joyful, this month’s edit of Elevate & Illuminate is a gentle reminder that we should find joy in looking after ourselves, being beautiful for ourselves, and being totally ourselves.
These are my handpicked favourites for a deeply meaningful June:
Beauty, Refined: colour, playfulness, and the great outdoors
Embracing bold, playful makeup
If you’re looking for something beyond the minimalist “clean-girl” aesthetic, I totally understand you — my makeup is becoming more colourful yet again! I am wholeheartedly embracing the vibrant energy of bold colours, dramatic pop wings, and playful artistry that truly speaks to my soul. This isn’t just about trends; it’s about finding freedom and joy in expressing every facet of myself.
Here are the makeup essentials currently bringing me immense delight and helping me craft that effortlessly confident, authentic look:
Arielle Eyeshadow Palette
₦13,500
Yanga Beauty
This eyeshadow palette is pure creative joy and adventurous self-expression in a pan. Its vibrant, intensely pigmented shades make it a dream to work with, instantly lifting my mood and sparking my creativity. It’s now my go-to for adding that playful, whimsical touch to my day, a joyful reminder that beauty should always be fun and truly expressive.
Ultimate Blurring Setting Powder
₦74,800
One Size
For that effortlessly polished finish, this has become an absolute staple. This powder is incredible; it leaves my skin looking flawlessly smooth and blurred, with little to no creasing, even on the busiest days. It’s the perfect final touch to ensure my makeup stays impeccable, giving me that confident, put-together feeling that’s all about looking and feeling my best.
Nourishing my hair’s natural joy
Lately, I’ve been embracing the freedom and creativity that come with styling and truly playing around with my natural hair. But, as we all know, especially living in humid climates like Lagos, leaving your hair out for extended periods can be incredibly drying. This is precisely where truly wonderful hair masks become non-negotiable. They penetrate with deep, nourishing hydration, transforming my strands and leaving my hair feeling lush, beautiful, and ready to be celebrated. These are the masks I’m loving:
My timeless favourites are:
Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Masque
₦14,560
Shea Moisture
First up, this is a true lifesaver for my coils. From the moment you open it, the scent is absolutely divine – it transforms my wash day into a truly indulgent ritual. But beyond the beautiful aroma, this masque truly delivers on its promise: it deeply hydrates my hair, penetrating every strand to combat the dryness that comes with our humid Lagos weather. My hair feels incredibly soft, lush, and undeniably beautiful after every use, making it easy to style and wear out with confidence.
Curl Expression Glycerin 3% + Urea H + Hibiscus Seed Hair Mask
₦45,465.76
L'Oréal Professionnel Paris
Another standout in my hair care arsenal, especially for those days I want my natural texture to truly pop, is the Curl Expression Glycerin 3% + Urea H + Hibiscus Seed Hair Mask by L’Oréal Professionnel Paris. This mask is pure magic for my coils. It doesn’t just hydrate thoroughly, it truly works wonders on my curl definition. After using it, my curls are beautifully defined, bouncy, and deeply hydrated, looking their absolute best without any frizz. It’s become essential for maintaining that lush, healthy feel, especially when I want my natural curl pattern to truly shine with joyful confidence.
Skincare for the outdoor girlie
My commitment to holistic self-care has truly brought me closer to my body, quite literally! As I’ve been exercising more and actively toning up, firming has naturally become a top priority for my skin. And of course, spending more time outdoors, enjoying the vibrant Lagos sun, means I’m even more mindful of protecting and nourishing my skin. This journey of strengthening my body goes hand-in-hand with giving my skin the targeted care it deserves, ensuring it feels as radiant and resilient as I do. Here’s what’s at the top of my list:
Ethnobotanical Firmness Body Cream
₦102,000
Enudium
To specifically address my new firming priorities, this cream has been an absolute game-changer. This cream is truly remarkable; I’ve noticed a significant increase in my skin’s firmness, particularly around my arms, which has been incredibly encouraging as I continue my toning journey. It feels luxurious to apply, and knowing I’m actively supporting my skin’s resilience makes this a deeply satisfying part of my daily self-care ritual, leaving my body feeling toned, smooth, and beautifully cared for.
Aloe Invisible Sunscreen
₦21,500
Uncover
Given my increased time outdoors, the Aloe Invisible Sunscreen by Uncover has become an indispensable companion. This is especially true for my long walks, when I need that extra layer of reliable protection against the Lagos sun. What makes it truly stand out is how wonderfully light and lovely it feels on the skin; there’s no sticky residue or heavy white cast, just pure, comfortable protection. It allows me to fully embrace my outdoor activities, knowing my skin is shielded and cared for, letting my radiance shine through without compromise.
Luscious, loved and luminous lips
Let’s talk about the power of the perfect pout! For me, luscious lips are key to feeling radiant and complete, a subtle yet impactful statement. This section is all about discovering products that truly strike with bold, beautiful makeup, offering that desired pop of colour or a defining statement, while also ensuring deep, lasting moisture. Because what’s more joyful than lips that not only look stunning but feel incredibly soft, healthy, and cared for? It’s the ultimate combination for any lovely lady looking to elevate her everyday presence. Here are my luscious favourites:
Slick Salve Lip Balm in “Açaí”
₦26,400
Topicals
For a truly delightful and deeply nourishing experience, I’m currently obsessed with the Slick Salve Lip Balm in “Açaí” by Topicals. This balm is absolutely lovely; it instantly melts onto my lips, providing intense moisturization that lasts. But it’s not just about the hydration — the way it smells is heavenly, and frankly, it tastes even better! It’s such a joyful little luxury that keeps my lips feeling soft, smooth, and perfectly prepped for anything, embodying that ‘loved and luminous’ feeling from within.
Super Stay Vinyl Ink Longwear Liquid Lipstick in “55 Royal”
₦16,000
Maybelline
To truly make a statement and embrace that bold lip look, this liquid lipstick is my ultimate go-to. This vibrant shade of red is simply captivating; it truly pops against my beautiful skin, instantly brightening my complexion and adding a touch of undeniable allure. Beyond its lovely radiance, what I truly appreciate is its incredible long-wear power. It stays put flawlessly for hours, allowing me to focus on my day with absolute confidence, knowing my vibrant pout is always on point and reflecting my joyful self.
Style, Elevated:
Blouses with an elevated presence
For building a wardrobe that truly reflects my evolving self, blouses and tops are the unsung heroes. What I absolutely love about them is their incredible versatility — I can effortlessly combine them with so many different pieces, instantly transforming an outfit and adapting to any mood or occasion. More than that, they’re pure fun! They offer endless opportunities to play with textures, prints, and silhouettes, allowing me to express my mood and creativity with every single look. It’s in these pieces that the magic of bridging my past inspirations with my future fashion aspirations truly comes alive.
Collared Plunge Blouse in “Mermaid”
$220
Laina Rauma
Speaking of fun and expressive tops, this top is easily a shining star in any wardrobe. I absolutely adore this piece because it is truly iridescent, catching the light in the most enchanting way and shifting colours with every movement — it’s like wearing pure magic! The elegant plunge neckline adds that touch of unexpected sophistication, making it feel incredibly fancy and perfect for elevating any occasion, from an evening out to a chic daytime event.
Summer Top
₦320,000
Ibilola Ogundipe
Another top that has me absolutely enchanted is the Summer Top by Ibilola Ogundipe. This piece is pure artistry! It literally looks like a sunset captured on a top, with its warm, glowing hues that evoke the beautiful Lagos evenings. And the rose details — they are simply breathtaking, so incredibly beautiful and intricate. This top feels like carrying a piece of wearable art, allowing anyone to express their appreciation for craftsmanship and natural beauty. It’s perfect for adding a touch of sophisticated whimsy to any summer look, truly elevating my style with its unique charm.
On my feet, on my game
As an active girlie and a media girlie navigating the bustling energy of Lagos, I know firsthand the importance of footwear that can truly keep up. My days often involve being on my feet for extended periods, from bustling sets to dynamic events, so comfort and practicality are absolutely non-negotiable. Yet, style never takes a backseat! This season, I’ve found incredible options that seamlessly blend the need for ease with the desire for chic expression. These shoes aren’t just about getting from point A to B; they’re about moving with confidence, comfort, and undeniable flair, truly embodying that effortless presence we discussed.
2002R Protection Pack Trainers in “Pink”
₦89,000
New Balance
These sneakers are giving my active lifestyle a serious style boost. These are truly super cute, and their vibrant pink shade makes them an instant favourite – you know how much I adore pink! Beyond their undeniable aesthetic appeal, these trainers are the perfect blend of comfort and performance. They’re my go-to for everything from long, invigorating walks and challenging runs to my daily training sessions, offering superb support and cushioning. They let me tackle my active schedule with ease, proving that you never have to compromise on style, even when you’re on the go.
Vlogo Signature Slide Sandal With Crochet Embroidery 60Mm
$1,100
Valentino
I absolutely adore these sandals because they genuinely can go with everything! From sophisticated daytime looks to relaxed evening outings, they seamlessly elevate any outfit. And the crochet embroidery — it is simply divine, so beautifully intricate and adds such a unique, artisanal touch. These slides offer that perfect blend of comfort for being on any feet and luxurious style, allowing me to transition through any day with grace and undeniable flair.
Jewellery with charm and character
No outfit, or indeed any self-expression, feels truly complete without the perfect finishing touches, and for me, that often means jewellery. I absolutely adore jewellery, not just for its shimmer, but for its incredible power to tell a story and add depth to a look. My heart gravitates towards pieces with true character – those with exciting motifs, intricate details, and a personality all their own. These aren’t just accessories; they’re little sparks of joy, allowing me to bridge different facets of my style and express my unique spirit with every glint and gleam. They’re a beautiful way to mark a moment, celebrate myself, and subtly illuminate my presence. These are the pieces I truly love:
Eyes Rhinestone Earrings
€1 ,850
Schiaparelli
Speaking of jewellery with unparalleled character, I am truly obsessed with the Eyes Rhinestone Earrings by Schiaparelli. These earrings are simply breathtakingly beautiful! The iconic eye motif, adorned with dazzling rhinestones, is utterly captivating and adds such a powerful, almost mystical allure to any look. They’re more than just earrings; they’re tiny works of art that spark conversation and tell a story, perfectly embodying that exciting, unique spirit I seek in my jewellery. They feel like a celebration of bold creativity and individual expression, illuminating any presence with every turn of a head.
Zane Acrylic Ring
₦25,300
Curio Class
This ring truly embodies understated elegance with a modern twist. I absolutely love it because it’s a beautifully classy piece that effortlessly dresses up any look, seamlessly taking me from day to night. Its unique acrylic material adds a subtle, intriguing touch without overpowering, allowing it to bridge casual chic with evening sophistication. It’s a wonderful reminder that even a single, well-chosen piece of jewellery can elevate your entire presence and bring a quiet joy to your personal style.
Mindful Living: As within, as without
Wind down treats
After navigating the demands of a busy day, there’s nothing quite like truly unwinding and making that transition into evening feel like a special ritual. I dedicate this next section to my favourite Winding Down Treats – those cherished items that transform the end of my day into a little extra reward. These aren’t just indulgences; they are intentional acts of self-care, designed to soothe my mind, body, and spirit, ensuring I replenish my energy and embrace complete relaxation before a new day begins. It’s about finding that quiet joy in the everyday, no matter how hectic life gets.
Moisturizing Bath & Body Oil, Sleep Blend with Melatonin
₦10,220
Dr Teal's
To truly elevate my evening winding-down ritual, this oil is an absolute dream. From the moment I open the bottle, the scent is simply heavenly, with its calming notes of lavender and chamomile instantly soothing my mind and setting the perfect mood for sleep. More than just a beautiful aroma, this oil is a powerhouse for hydration; it effectively locks in moisture for the night ahead, leaving my skin feeling incredibly soft and moisturised, even when I wake up the next morning. It’s the perfect treat to nourish both my skin and my spirit, making every night’s rest feel deeply rewarding.
Sorrel & Ginger Tea
₦4,500
Tropical Sun
To truly round off my evening with a warm, comforting embrace, the Sorrel & Ginger Tea by Tropical Sun has become an absolute favourite. I simply love this blend! Its rich, comforting aroma and distinct flavour feel incredibly nice and refreshing, a perfect palate cleanser after a long day. It’s more than just a beverage; it’s a moment of quiet contentment, allowing me to sip away the day’s hustle and welcome a sense of calm. This tea is a wonderful way to bring that ‘extra rewarding’ feeling to my nightly ritual, preparing me for a peaceful rest. Add a dash of honey, and you’re perfect.
The Season’s Affirmations
Affirmations aren’t just feel-good phrases; they are deliberate acts of self-love, shaping our mindset, boosting our confidence, and guiding our energy. By consciously choosing positivity, we cultivate an inner glow that truly elevates and illuminates every facet of our lives, regardless of challenges the day may bring.
Here are 10 affirmations to help you rediscover the joy of taking care of yourself:
1.
I am embracing the profound joy of nourishing my mind, body, and spirit.
2.
I am worthy of the time and attention I dedicate to my well-being.
3.
I am making self-care a sacred, non-negotiable priority in my busy life.
4.
I am cultivating my inner radiance through every intentional act of self-love.
5.
I am finding deep contentment in the small, mindful rituals of looking after myself.
6.
I am replenishing my energy and spirit with every moment devoted to my needs.
7.
I am celebrating my authentic beauty by tending to myself with joy and care.
8.
I am empowered by the choices I make to support my own happiness and health.
9.
I am building a resilient and vibrant self through consistent self-nurturing.
10.
I am present and grateful for the beautiful journey of rediscovering myself through self-care.
A June dedicated to you
Beyond the essentials, self-care is also a beautiful opportunity to rediscover forgotten parts of yourself. It’s about indulging in those whimsical touches that soothe your inner child, like experimenting with colourful eyeshadows, trying out playful, whimsical hairstyles, or even painting your nails a bright, unexpected shade. Looking after yourself in this way isn’t just a chore; it’s a profound privilege and a vibrant exercise in joy. It’s about creating moments that truly make your spirit sing.
And as you embark on this journey of self-dedication, we urge you to immerse yourself in our inaugural Beauty Issue, featuring our luminous cover star, Temi Otedola. This issue is a deep dive into the very soul of African beauty, a reclamation whispered through generations and now spoken with a confident voice. This is an invitation to a homecoming – to critically examine external pressures, honour the deep wellspring of African beauty within, and redefine what it truly means to be beautiful, not as a fleeting trend, but as a powerful and enduring act of self-love and cultural pride.
Let this month be a gentle yet firm reminder that self-care is your anchor, your source of joy, and your pathway to truly shining. Embrace the rituals, big or small, that replenish your spirit and make you feel truly seen, by yourself, for yourself. You are worthy of every moment of care you give.
Love always,
P.S – Special thanks to Beauty Hut Africa for sending over these beauty must-haves: the Ethnobotanical Firmness Body Cream by Enudium, Aloe Invisible Sunscreen by Uncover, Slick Salve Lip Balm in “Açaí” by Topicals, and Super Stay Vinyl Ink Longwear Liquid Lipstick in “55 Royal” by Maybelline
