Having a skin care regime is a great habit to protect your skin against the constant exposure to the elements. Our faces interact with the elements more than any other part of our bodies. And it is the face we show to the world!
A skin care regime can be as simple as cleanse, rinse and moisturize. Simple ingredients can be used for a great complexion. There are some great ingredients as close as your kitchen which can help create this regime.
Honey: a natural humectant (helps retain moisture in the skin) also has antibacterial properties, making it great for acne-prone skin! You can use it by applying a thin layer of raw honey as a face mask. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
Oatmeal: this ingredient is soothing and can help reduce inflammation, making it ideal for sensitive or irritated skin. You can use it by mixing oatmeal with water or milk to create a paste. Apply it as a face mask, leave it on for 15 minutes, then rinse off.
Coconut Oil: a great moisturizer which can help with dry skin. It also has antibacterial and antifungal properties. You can use it as a makeup remover or as a nightly moisturizer. Apply a small amount to your face, and massage it in before rinsing or leaving it overnight.
Yogurt: this ingredient contains lactic acid, which can gently exfoliate the skin, leaving it soft and smooth. It's also soothing for sunburns. You can use it by applying plain yogurt directly to your skin as a mask. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off.
Lemon: lemon juice is high in vitamin C and can help brighten the skin. It also has astringent properties that can help reduce oiliness. You can use it by mixing lemon juice with honey or water to dilute it before applying to the skin. Use it as a toner or in a DIY mask.
*Be cautious as lemon can make your skin sensitive to sunlight.
Olive Oil: rich in antioxidants and vitamins, this oil is highly moisturizing and can be used for dry or mature skin. You can use it by applying a few drops of olive oil as a facial moisturizer or mix it with sugar for a gentle exfoliating scrub (rinse with warm water and a clean cloth to remove any residue).
Cucumber: cucumbers are very hydrating and can help reduce puffiness and soothe irritated skin! You can use this ingredient by placing slices over your eyes to reduce puffiness or blend it into a puree and apply it as a cooling face mask.
Turmeric: this spice has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it great for brightening the skin and reducing acne scars. Ou can use it by mixing it with honey or yogurt to create a mask. Apply it to your face, leave it on for 10-15 minutes, and then rinse.
*Be careful as turmeric can stain the skin temporarily.
Sugar: a natural exfoliant, sugar can help remove dead skin cells, leaving your skin smooth and silky feeling. Use this ingredient by mixing sugar with honey or olive oil to create a scrub. Gently massage it onto your skin in circular motions, then rinse off.
Aloe Vera: is well known its soothing and healing properties. It's great for sunburns, acne, and dry skin.
You can use it by applying fresh aloe vera gel directly from the plant to your skin. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off.
Apple Cider Vinegar: is wonderful for balancing the pH of the skin. This helps keep the skin healthy and less prone to breakouts! You can use it by as an exfoliant (the acetic acid in ACV acts as a mild exfoliant, helping to remove dead skin cells and promote a smoother complexion), or skin soother. You can use it as a toner by diluting it with water in a 1:2 or 1:3 ratio (1 part ACV to 2 or 3 parts water)and use it with a clean cloth or cotton ball. This can help balance your skin’s pH and clear up breakouts. Use this toner no more than once a day to avoid over-drying your skin. Blemishes can be treated in the same way.
In a bath soak, Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) can be used by adding 1-2 cups of ACV to a warm bath. Soak for 15-20 minutes to soothe irritated skin, reduce body acne, and restore your skin’s natural pH balance.
Got a sunburn? Mix equal parts ACV and water, and gently apply it to sunburned skin using a soft cloth or cotton pad. The cooling effect can provide relief, and ACV may help prevent peeling.
*You need to use some precaution with this ingredient: always dilute ACV before applying it to your skin, as it’s highly acidic and can cause irritation or burns if used undiluted. Perform a patch test on a small area of your skin to ensure you don’t have an adverse reaction. Keep ACV away from your eyes and any open cuts or wounds, as it can sting or cause irritation.
Apple cider vinegar can be a great addition to your natural skincare routine when used correctly and with caution.
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