The transition from day-to-night is, at least for us at TF HQ, something that deserves more attention than just slipping into our pyjamas and hopping into bed. It’s a time to decompress, wind down, to reflect on the day past and to prepare for the day to come. It’s a process underpinned by an inner-circle of products – those that have survived rigorous testing, those that we actually finish, all eventually earning their rightful place as permanent bedtime fixtures. THE FILE raison d’être is all about ‘beauty behind closed doors’ – and today, we bring you The Office Edition.  Read on for the bedside staples, PM routines and go-to products our trusty team members swear by.

You may just like what you find…

Jordan Samuel Ètoile with Retinol Treatment Oil

“Usually, I’m not one for retinol as my sensitive skin is happiest with a minimal routine consisting of gentle, non-toxic products. But, as 28 fast approaches, and after running out of this oil a few months ago, I finally restocked and will never look back. It has all the benefits of a typical retinol but, with a blend of organic sweet almond, argan, marula, cranberry seed, evening primrose, rosehip, and seabuckthorn oils and vitamin E, it is gentle and hydrating enough to use every single night. After regular use for a few weeks, skin is noticeably clear and soft, redness is reduced and post-summer acne marks have faded. Because of it, I’ve even been able to replace my usual tinted moisturiser/concealer routine with just a bit of RMS Un-Cover Up, in turn allowing for a few additional minutes of beauty sleep in the morning. Win-win!”

Meghann Stephenson, Contributor

Magnesium Supplements

“When it comes to supplements, I’m still very much on the fence. Any multi-billion dollar industry that filters its claims with a dithering lexicon – may boost libido, assists focus, provides support etc – is unregulated in many countries, and is supported by little conclusive research, should really be approached with a high level of discrimination. HOWEVER, when your mum insists that you do something more than six times over the space of a month, you just do it (for the sake of your sanity and hers). This time it was magnesium supplements which, she insisted, would be a wonderful cure-all for my stress levels and my quality of sleep…the thing is, I think it’s actually working. How so? Magnesium increases GABA, the compound crucial for telling your nervous system that it’s safe to relax; it also plays a key role in regulating the body’s stress-response system. Look, I’m still a little skeptical, but in the two months since I’ve been taking them, I’ve felt brighter and more alert throughout the day, even while falling short of my desired 8 hours a night.”

Rose Howard, Associate Editor 

Essential Oil Diffuser and Blend

“My favourite, favourite way to end each and every day is with my little evening skincare ritual. I swear, conducting this ritual has become so synonymous with my pre-bed routine, my brain starts pumping out melatonin as soon as I begin. Fresh out of the shower and skin still a little damp (this is key), I slather pure organic jojoba or Mukti Organics Bioactive Body Elixir (this is super dreamy) over my entire body. This is followed by a step-by-step skincare ritual I never stray from and, considering I stick to it 95% of the time, keeps my skin in fairly good condition: The Beauty Chef Probiotic Skin Refiner, Votary Super Seed Facial Oil and Mukti Organics Age Defiance Night Serum. Following this – I’ll apply my The Beauty Chef Beauty Fix Balm on any extra dry spots. Conducted with my essential oil diffuser and Aesop Catherine Blend Essential Oil in the background. Believe it or not, this skincare ritual has become the best way for me to decompress after a long day. Not doing it would be like not brushing my teeth before bed.”

Gemma Clarke, Content Producer

Maison Balzac Bonne Nuit Candle

I love kicking into wind down mode a few hours before bed. It’s sacred time for me and it prepares me for a good night’s rest. No screens, no calls, no interruptions, it’s my favourite time of day. I’ve always loved rituals, and so bedtime is no different. In the early evening I light a candle and burn incense as it marks the completion of the day and helps me re-connect. I’m currently burning Bonne Nuit from Maison Balzac – it has the most beautiful scent.

I also recently started wearing silk PJs to bed and these ones from Peter Alexander are my current favourites; super soft, super luxurious. I also wear a linen set from Deji studios on warmer nights, they get softer with every wash and they’re so beautiful to wear around the house.

Carlie Fowler, Founder and Editor.

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution and Eve Lom Brightening Cream

“My number one priority before going to bed is to rid my skin of all traces of the outside world. Obsessive, maybe, but it helps me sleep better. I’ll shower, use my Eve Lom cleansing balm and muslin cloth to cleanse, and pat my face dry with a towel. I’ll then soak a cotton pad in The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution (the hero of this story). The 240ml bottle cost me a whole $14.50, so I figure I can use it with abandon. Most glycolic acid products I’ve used have been too harsh for me, but this one is a dream. I don’t often double cleanse, so it’s a nice final swipe before my moisturiser. Only every second night, though!”

Betsy Greaves, Social Media Producer