Natural Skin Care

Skin care is a daily routine that most men and women struggle with each day. Over the counter and department store options abound. But what about options for taking care of the skin without using processed chemicals manufactured in a lab which don’t have established long- term effects on humans?

Over the counter products often contain chemicals that have a negative effect on our health. While research shows that these chemicals are only hazardous when used on laboratory animals at amounts much higher than would be used in skin care products, what research doesn’t account for is that these same or similar chemicals are used in many products that people come into contact with each and every day. The increased exposure to these chemicals increases the risk to those who use them.

The better, and more natural option, is to use natural products that don’t have additives, chemicals and has no risk to our health or the environment. Many specialty products boast these same natural products but they are more costly than using the same common household items or items from the grocery store or health food store.

One of the most common skin care problems for men and women are age spots and liver spots. To get rid of age spots there are no shortage of creams sold over the counter many of which are unsafe and sometimes just plain ineffective. Even people in their twenties can suffer from hyperpigmentation called melesma. One natural product found in the home is vinegar. You can dilute the vinegar equally with water and use it as an astringent or toner after you’ve washed. Vinegar is chemically acetic and will also whiten and brighten making your skin smoother and more radiant. Apple cider vinegar or other natural vinegars are recommended, although some people use distilled white vinegar.

Another natural skin care product to remove pigmentation is to remove the juice of an onion and mix it with equal parts of apple cider vinegar. Apply this twice a day with cotton. It will take several weeks to see results. Although it has been found effective it also leaves a rather unusual odor. Lemon juice from a fresh lemon over the pigmentation may have a similar effect. Although the results from this product may not be as effective, or take longer to see results it does smell better!

A problem common to men and women is the issue of softening and providing moisture to the skin cells. This process will keep the skin looking younger longer. Moisture will help to plump the cells and give the face a youthful glow. Aloe oil, olive oil and coconut oil are all natural moisturizers that can be found in the health food store. These products have molecules that are too large to penetrate the skin but protect the out layer from the environment.

An avocado paste made from a mashed ripe avocado and placed over the face should be left on for about 5 minutes and then gently removed with a warm wet wash cloth. This process will deeply moisturize the skin. Because the avocado is protected by a thick skin it isn’t necessary to purchase an organic fruit to use on the face.

Before a night out you can rejuvenate dull or dark skin by using chamomile or lavender as a toner. They are natural, sweet and will revive dull and tired skin. Make your toner from natural chamomile or lavender leaves that you steep into a mild tea.

Once or twice weekly women should use an exfoliating product to help remove the outer layer of dead skin. Men exfoliate each day they shave, which helps to keep their skin looking young. Women must be intentional in their efforts to exfoliate. Combine cornmeal, oatmeal, apricot seeds and almonds with water to make a paste and use as a scrub. Women who have sensitive skin should avoid this particular combination.

A recipe for more sensitive skin is to use 2-3 teaspoons of raw oats (not pre-cooked) sent through the food processor then mixed with pure honey and ¼ teaspoon of natural apple cider vinegar until it forms a smooth mixture. When the texture is just right, add one drop of basil oil. For those with problem skin add a drop of tea tree oil instead to help in the healing process.

In either case apply the mixture in gentle circular motions. Avoid the eye area because the combination is too rough for the gentle skin around the eyes. After applying leave it on for 5-15 minutes and then remove using lots of tepid water. Finish off with a rinse of cold water to close the pores of the skin.

By using natural products from the grocery store you’ll be able to decrease your cost, remove the risk of using processed chemicals and decrease your imprint on the earth. It is an easy way to make a change in your habits that will make a difference to the environment.