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Best Facial Cleanser and Lotion ... And It's Homemade

Economical, Home-Made, Organic, Skin, Skin Conditioning, Skin Health

I have never grown out of the acne-prone skin I developed in high school. It's not as bad as it was back then, but I still have monthly breakouts that sometimes include very painful pimples across all layers of my skin. During the past two decades, I have experimented with every acne product in the drugstore: the cleansers, the scrubs, the lotions, the creams, the vitamins, the sponges, the soaps and the masks. I have tried multiple brands of each of these products, as well. In college, I even tried that expensive monthly club that charged $40 a month for a little bottle of cleanser and astringent that I could barely stretch over the 30 days. It didn't help, anyway.

So, here I am, with acne that isn't quite that bad, but skin that still breaks out and, worse, has pitted scars to remind me of the skin that plagued me in my teens and early 20s. My adequate drug-store skin regimen included a Buff Puff sponge with Noxema to exfoliate, wash with antibacterial Dial soap, and then moisturize with Cetaphil lotion. But I still wasn't happy with my skin.

The Recipes

I use two 2-ounce baby food jars: one for my face cleanser and the other for my homemade moisturizer. The cleanser lasts me about two weeks washing morning and night, and the lotion lasts for weeks. There is at least one night per week, however, that skip my cleanser and go straight for a pure baking soda scrub for a microdermabrasion effect. A regimen of one microdermabrasion a week is helping reduce the appearance of my pitted acne scars. After two months, people have started to notice that my skin is smoother and more even without any prodding from me whatsoever.

Face Cleanser

3 Tbsp ground oatmeal (not instant)

3 Tbsp baking soda

3 Tbsp of honey

3 Tbsp of water

1. Ground up your oatmeal in a blender. I have another container I use to store the unused portion so that, when it's time to make a new batch, my oatmeal is ready to go.

2. Add the oatmeal and the baking soda to the baby food jar.

3. Next, add the water. Put the lid on the jar and shake it vigorously. This helps shrink the mixture down and thin it out enough to mix it with the honey.

4. Add the honey to the jar and shake again. Really shake it so that all of the ingredients mix together well. The solution will likely be thin at first, but will thicken overnight as the oatmeal absorbs the water and honey.

5. When it's time to use the cleanser, you may need to reshake the jar or stir it with your finger first. The thinner the mixture is, the more the ingredients will separate with the heavier baking soda settling on the bottom.

Understanding that this recipe is the one that has been working wonders on my skin, you may require a slight adjustment. For example, one of the recipes I tried included a tablespoon of unrefined coconut oil. This reduced the abrasion of the baking soda and thickened the solution into a paste-like texture. If you find that my recipe is too harsh for your skin, consider reducing the baking soda to 2 tablespoons and add a tablespoon of unrefined coconut oil.

Moisturizing Lotion

2 Tbsp unrefined coconut oil

.5 Tbsp of honey

.5 Tbsp of water

Put everything in a jar and, if your coconut oil is soft enough, just shake the jar until everything is mixed; if not, use your finger to mix it together. It should be creamy when you're done, with a slight brown tint. For your morning moisturizing, use a small amount on the tip of your finger. A little bit of this lotion goes a long way. If you do a pure baking soda scrub at night, use a bit more and really coat your skin to protect it.

Since this lotion is oil-based, be aware that its texture is dependent upon the temperature in the room. If it gets too warm, it will liquify; if it gets too cold, it will be harder. Additionally, keep the lotion in an air-tight jar. The honey in it will crystallize if you leave the lid off. If this happens, simply put some on your finger, run it under water and rub your hands together to smooth it back out.

Pure Baking Soda Scrub

If you have scars that you want to treat, one or two nights per week, wet your face, add about half a tablespoon of baking soda to a damp washcloth, and massage it over your face for about a minute. Thoroughly rinse and put a generous amount of coconut oil over your skin to protect it overnight.

The Research

How did I come to these recipes? Well, first I spent some time researching homemade facial scrubs. I came across a lot of recipes online. Some mixed different combinations of these ingredients with oils, vinegar toners, citrus juices, and other household and food products. As I researched those products, I found that the four ingredients in this recipe had all the properties I needed in a skin-care regimen.

After selecting my ingredients, I experimented with different combinations until I found a texture that gave me that clean-skin feeling without being too abrasive, and there were a few days where I scrubbed off a bit too much skin. It's hard not to get a little zealous about a new scrub, but do start slow or you can do more harm than good, even with these all-natural, homemade recipes.

Let me share a summary of this research with you, including some cautions about using baking soda recipes on your skin as it can affect the pH of your skin.

• Oatmeal is not only a gentle exfoliant, it helps reduce swelling, dryness and itching in skin. Its starches, beta-glucan, saponins and phenols have been shown to not only help problem skin heal, but actually buffer and clean skin.

• Honey is both antiseptic and provides a layer of protection for wounds. It is also a natural preservative for your homemade recipes. It's also a great way to lighten scars, moisturize skin and treat eczema.

• Baking soda is an abrasive that exfoliates the skin. In addition to whitening teeth, baking soda can provide various levels of skin cleansing from light exfoliation to a microdermabrasion-like treatment.

• Unrefined coconut oil is a great natural moisturizer for hair and skin. Various studies suggest that coconut oil is effective at treating some skin conditions and conditioning hair. Remember, a little bit goes a long way.

Balancing the pH

In my research, I encountered some who caution against using baking soda on your skin. After all, some use this chemical to scrub their sinks and toilets. The main objection is that our skin has a natural acidic top layer, or an acid mantel, that protects us from bacteria. Scrubbing this layer away can cause worse breakouts, and do that is especially easy with baking soda, which is a base. The above recipes and skin care regimen works to keep your skin's pH at the right level and maintain a protective layer at all times.

If you find that you're breaking out too much, reduce how vigorously you scrub. I noticed, in the first couple weeks, that I was breaking out after doing my microdermabrasion treatments with baking soda. Of course, I was doing it two consecutive nights. When I cut that down to one night a week, I stopped breaking out. Your skin is unique so you'll need to use a little trial and error to find the right regimen for you, but err on the side of caution.

• Oatmeal pH is about 5.5 (weak acid) - about the same as black coffee or urine

• Honey has an average pH of about 3.9 (moderate acid) - about the same as tomato juice and acid rain

• Baking soda has a pH of about 9 (weak alkaline)

• Water is neutral

Using only the oatmeal and baking soda with water would create a slightly acidic, but close to neutral solution. Adding a bit of honey tips the scale toward the acidic side, which helps fend off bacteria and match the natural pH of your skin, which is about 4.5 to 5.

Evening Out Your Skin Tone

Health, Skin, Skin Conditioning, Skin Health

How to Keep the Tone of Your Facial Skin Even and Smooth Without Blotches or Discoloration the Natural Way

No matter what your natural skin color is, it's entirely possible to have problems keeping the skin tone on your face smoothed out and even. This is caused by a variety of problems that all people face - stress, depression, pigmentation issues, fatigue, exposure to excessive wind and sun, nutrient and vitamin deficiencies, age, and other common and unavoidable things. There are ways to even out and fix your skin tone though, and you can do it naturally and easily right in your own home without visiting the spa or a dermatologist.

Naturally, keeping yourself hydrated has a lot to do with the way your skin looks. Drinking lots of water and making sure you don't go too long without a drink (especially in the summer time!) can really help improve the way your skin looks. Blotching in your face can occur through the course of just one day if you don't keep yourself hydrated enough. Always carry water with you!

The products you use to wash your face can have a big affect on how your skin looks when you rinse it off, and the way that you use the products can ultimately improve or completely diminish the effect of your face wash. If you rub too hard or too many times in the wrong directions, you could end up just pushing around dead skin cells and clogging your pores - exactly the opposite of what you'd be trying to do! Small circular motions are the best for foaming and cream facial cleansers alike, and using the same patterns in small soft motions is the best way to apply face masks no matter what their consistency.

Moisturizing is another huge factor that effects your skin tone. Keeping your face properly moisturized without adding too many excess oils is important, especially if you plan to put makeup on! Putting any sort of foundation on skin that's not properly moisturized won't do anything to help even out your skin tone - instead, it will simply make your blotches and discolored spots even more noticeable after your makeup sinks into your skin. Using oil-free moisturizers with an SPF is a great idea for keeping your skin safe and smooth before you apply your makeup. Not using any unnecessary oils can also help keep your skin tone even.

There are certain things you could make it a point to eat and drink as well, like tomato, lemon, lime, and carrot juice. Alternatively, you could also use any of those four ingredients to make an invigorating scrub for your skin. Halving a lemon or lime and dipping the exposed flesh side in some pure cane sugar, and then using it as a sponge to clean and exfoliate your skin is a great way to keep your skin tone even and help get rid of any dirt, oil, and bacteria.

Cucumbers and melons are incredibly effective at removing any darkness that's under your eyes or anywhere else on your face. The old favorite remedy - using cucumber slices over your eyes - can also be just as effective if you use melon slices as well. Also, you can use slices of cucumber and melon (preferably honeydew) to dab away excess makeup that sticks around after you wash your face. Cucumbers are also great at removing puffiness, so holding cucumber over your cheekbones can help make them look less puffy if you've been crying or exposed to a lot of sun or wind.

Using natural methods to keep your face one solid, smooth color is a great way to boost self confidence and make your makeup look even more perfect.

Homemade Alpha Hydroxy Acids and Beta Hydroxy Acids Skincare

Cosmetics, Economical, Home-Made, Organic, Skin, Skin Conditioning, Skin Health

Do-it-yourself Beauty Products

Acids for skin care are all the rage right now. They are more effective exfoliants than manual exfoliators, as they pose less of a risk for irritating inflamed or sensitive skin. However, skin care products featuring such acids can be pricey sometimes. This doesn't mean that you can't experience their benefits. You can make masks and toners containing these acids right at home for a fraction of the price!

Glycolic acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) which helps exfoliate your skin cells. Glycolic Acid is found in brown sugar, and you can make a great exfoliant by mixing brown sugar and your choice of a skin-friendly oil (such as jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, olive oil, castor oil, almond oil, etc.) and apply as a paste to your face. Leave it on up to 10 minutes and apply warm water to your face. Scrub gently (if you sensitive skin, just wipe it off) and make sure to rinse off completely.

Lactic acid is another type of alpha hydroxy acid that not only exfoliates superficial skin cells but is also used to hydrate and soothe flaky,dry skin. Lactic acid is found in milk and yogurt, and Cleopatra purportedly bathed in milk to keep her skin supple. To utilize this acid, mix powdered skim milk with honey for a mask that soothes and exfoliates simultaneously. Or, you can put milk in a spray bottle filled 3/4 of the way with water, and use it to hydrate your face anytime you need a pick-me-up, the way that Cindy Crawford does when she travels (this is to counter the drying effects of the dehydrating air within the airplane cabin, which can sometimes get drier than the Sahara Desert!) For acne, you can mix lemon juice, cucumber juice and yogurt and put it on as a mask for around 10 minutes. You'll find that your skin is brighter and pinker and more uniform in color.

Citric acid is often used in skin-creams, toners and face cleansers to balance the PH of your skin, and also, works as a natural preservative of the ingredients in the products. Citric acid is found in lemons, oranges and grapefruits. You can use lemon juice in your masks (great when mixed with egg whites) or you can grind the rind of an orange and mix it with oatmeal for a clarifying mask.

Malic Acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid and is found in apples. If you have never tried apple cider vinegar for your skin, you should try it. It's great for reducing the amount of oil your skin produces and also helps even out your skin tone. You certainly should try organic apple cider vinegar (such as the cult-favorite, Bragg's), as it isn't processed (it still contains the mother-web at the bottom of the bottle).

Tartaric acid is yet another type of alpha hydroxy acid that is found in grapes. Grape masks are great for rejuvenating aging skin and really makes the skin look brighter. Crush a few grapes and leave it on your face for 5-10 minutes. Wash off and make sure to apply a suitable moisturizer for your skin type.

Salicylic Acid (which is found in aspirin, and trace amounts can be found in aloe vera and strawberries) is a type of beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) which penetrates yours pores and gets beneath the sebum and dissolves and exfoliates dead skin cells. My favorite mask to use for my acne-prone skin is a mixture of honey, aloe vera and crushed and dissolved aspirin pills. When applied for 10-20 minutes, it works to exfoliate my skin and helps soothe any painful zits I have. This is great for reducing any cysts you might have, and also helps de-plug any blackheads and clogged pores. Also, you can make a great toner by mixing apple cider vinegar, green tea and a few aspirin pills. Let the pills dissolve, and make sure to use this up within a few days.

Five Effective Ways to Have a Smooth and Even Skin Tone

Cosmetics, Health, Skin, Skin Conditioning, Skin Health

Skin Tone Treatments that Really Work

Who doesn't want beautiful skin? Unfortunately, there are so many things in our lives that cause our skin tone to become uneven and unsightly. As I get older, I find that damage from sun and chemicals has played havoc on my skin. I have tried just about everything to even out my skin tone, and these are some of the most effective.

Facial Scrubs and Masks

The best and easiest way to even out skin tone is to remove the old, dead skin cells. You can easily do this at home with facial scrubs and masks, or have a professional microdermabrasion performed at a salon. I find baking soda and oatmeal effective and safe scrubs for sensitive skin. I like Bentonite clay masks for drawing out toxins and tightening pores.

Skin Lightening Creams

Skin lightening creams, also called bleaching creams, reduce melanin production in the skin. They are helpful for age spots, melasma and skin discolorations caused by hormones. The active ingredients in most over-the-counter bleaching creams in the United States is hydroquinone. The problem I found is that noticeable results can take up to 12 weeks. For faster results, concentrations of hydroquinone higher than 4% are available with a doctor's prescription.

Acid and Chemical Peels

Acid peels can be achieved over time with a gentle over-the-counter alpha-hydroxy or retinoic acid cream. Medium-depth peels are performed by estheticians or skincare technicians, while strong chemical peels should only be performed by a qualified dermatologist. I found that over-the-counter products take up to 8 weeks to achieve results, while medium peels show results in just a few days. Professional chemical peels can cause burning and scarring, and take weeks for total healing to occur.

Lemon Juice
Lemon juice contains vitamin C and citric acid, both known to help remove and lighten the top skin layer. I find that fresh lemon juice works better and faster. When using lemon juice to even your skin tone, always protect the skin around your eyes and your lips with petroleum jelly. Also protect your hair to keep it from being bleached. Apply fresh lemon juice with your fingertips or a makeup brush and leave on for about 10 minutes before rinsing well. Repeat this every day until you achieve your desired skin tone.

Prescription Alpha-Hydroxy Products
High-potency alpha-hydroxy creams, such as Retin-A, are prescribed by your doctor and are used in conjunction with hydroquinone creams for skin lightening. I got my prescription to treat rosacea. They come in strengths of .025, .05 and .10 percent, and can even skin tone and remove superficial wrinkles and scarring. They cause your skin to peel much faster, which can be unsightly. They also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. You must start at a lower concentration and work up to the strongest. Your doctor will give you instructions on how to use alpha-hydroxy creams safely.

The best way to perfect skin is through proper nutrition and drinking plentiful amounts of water. These treatments are more to repair skin tone that has been damaged by time, age and bad habits. Treat your skin well, because it is your main protection against the harmful elements in the world.

Natural Skin Care: Homemade Honey Face Wash for Acne Prone Skin

Acne, Economical, Home-Made, Organic, Skin, Skin Conditioning, Skin Health

I thought that once I entered my twenties, my fight with acne was over; boy was I wrong. As an adult, I have continued to fight intermittent breakouts that are both frustrating and embarrassing. While there are many companies that cater to the adult acne sufferer, I have found that homemade treatments work just as well for a fraction of the cost. Here are some healthier alternatives to chemical laden acne face washes that use honey and other natural ingredients.

The Bacteria Acne Connection

While bacteria don't specifically cause acne, bacteria can make acne prone skin worse. Natural bacteria that is found on the skin's surface can become trapped in pores and produce chemicals that can irritate skin, causing inflammation and leading to breakouts. In order to fight acne, it is important to kill the bacteria that can hinder your fresh faced look. One of the best natural ways to kill bacteria is by using honey.

Why Honey?

Honey is a great natural way to fight acne breakouts because it has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Honey also has natural antioxidants that help get rid of harmful toxins from your skin. The antibacterial properties found in honey help to kill harmful bacteria that can make acne worse. Unlike over the counter acne face washes which can be harsh, irritating and overly drying to skin, honey is soothing and cleanses while also hydrating.

Tips for Buying Your Ingredients

There are a few tips to follow when you buy ingredients for a honey face wash. Make sure you use raw honey. Raw honey is the most effective at preventing acne as many of honey's antibacterial properties can be lost when it is processed. Manuka honey is all the rage right now and has been shown to be more effective than regular raw honey at fighting bacteria, but any raw honey will work well. Whatever type of honey you decide to use, you always want to make sure you purchase pure ingredients. I buy my honey and other ingredients for homemade beauty treatments at a health food store to ensure the best possible quality.

Here are two homemade honey facial treatments that are gentle enough to be used daily to stop acne in its tracks.

Homemade Honey Face Wash Recipe

To make natural homemade honey face wash for treating acne, mix together 1/4 cup of honey, 1/2 cup of water and two tablespoons of a natural mild soap. Two of my favorites are Dr. Bronner's Baby Mild Liquid Soap and Burt's Bees Baby Bee Shampoo and Wash. Put mixture into a clean bottle with a pour or squeeze spout. To use your homemade face wash, simply massage wash into damp skin. Rinse with warm water, then pat skin dry. Store honey wash in a cool dry place and it will keep for up to two weeks.

Honey Almond Oil Cleansing Mask

Another great homemade honey cleanser for acne prone skin can be made by mixing one tablespoon of almond oil and two tablespoons of honey. To use, apply a light layer to damp skin and massage using a circular motion. Allow mask to sit on skin for twenty minutes before removing with a warm cloth. If your skin is extra oily, add a few drops of lemon juice. Some rosewater added to the honey mixture will help lessen the appearance of scars and smooth skin. Store this mask in the fridge, as almond oil is highly perishable.

How to Have Great Looking Skin the Natural Way

Acne, Economical, Health, Home-Made, Organic, Skin Conditioning, Skin Health

In todays world, clear and healthy skin however, is often something that is hard to accomplish. Pollutants in the air, foods and beverages we ingest and our own bodies chemical composition are just some of the things that can play a part in how our skin looks. Problem skin can basically be broken down into three areas. Acne, dry skin and oily skin. There are literally thousands of products on the market to help combat these problems, however many of them can be extremely harsh on your skin and many are just simply ineffective. What many people don't realize, is that there are also many natural products that can be used to help you skin that are far more gentle and less damaging.

For Acne

Acne is an inflammatory disorder of the skin. Acne is formed when oil becomes trapped in sebaceous glands. Bacteria then begins to multiply in the follicle causing the skin to become inflamed. Acne is not caused by your pores being dirty, but by over active oil glands. The pores become sticky due to excess oil which allows the bacteria to become trapped inside. Blackheads are also not caused by dirt, but form when sebum combines with skin pigment and plugs the pores. There are many, many factors that can contribute to acne. Hereditary conditions, oily skin, allergies, stress, certain medications, junk food and cosmetics are only some of the causes. There is however, one key factor behind many skin disorders. One of the skins functions is to remove a portion of the bodies waste products by sweating. As toxins escape through the skin, it disrupts the skins balance, and can cause break outs. As you can see, there are numerous reasons why we have break outs, which is why acne can be so difficult to overcome.

There are quite a few natural vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements that can be taken though that can help with acne. Some of the vitamin and mineral supplements are:

Chromium picolinate- Aids in reducing infections in the skin.

Essential Fatty Acids (flaxseed oil, primrose oil, etc.)- Helps keep skin smooth and soft, repairs damaged skin cells and dissolves fatty deposits that block pores.

Vitamin B Complex- Needed for healthy skin tone. Improves blood flow to the surface of the skin.

Zinc- Aids in the healing of tissues and helps prevent scarring.

Colloidal silver- Is a natural antibiotic and disinfectant.

Vitamin A- Strengthens the protective skin tissue.

Vitamin E- An antioxidant that enhances healing.

Some herbal supplements and remedies that can be used for acne are:

Burdock root and Red clover teas- Are strong blood cleansers which aids in having healthy skin.

Green clay powder and Raw Honey- Can be mixed and used as a facial mask. Green clay powder can be found in most health food stores. Mix 1 tsp. green clay powder with 1 tsp. raw honey. Apply to face avoiding the eye area. Leave on for 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

Tea Tree (Melaleuca) oil- A wonderful natural antibiotic and antiseptic for the skin. Add 1 dropperful of tea tree oil to 1/4 cup warm water and apply to face with a clean cotton ball. You can also find soaps that contain tea tree oil. One body wash that works very well for acne is called Body Essence Ultra Moisturizing Tea Tree Oil Body Wash with Olive Oil proteins. This product is available at Wal-Mart and is great to use on your entire body.

Witch Hazel- A wonderful cleanser and astringent for your skin. Helps reduce excess oil and tones the skin. Is extremely mild and non irritating. Apply with a clean cotton ball once or twice daily.

For Dry Skin

The correct balance of oil and moisture is essential to healthy, clear skin. Contrary to the popular phrase "Oil and water don't mix," oil and water work together to keep your skin healthy. Your skin must have enough moisture in the skin cells, but there also has to be the proper amount of oil to prevent excessive evaporation of moisture from the skins top layers. There are actually two different types of dry skin. Simple dry skin and complex dry skin. Simple dry skin comes from an insufficient amount of natural oils. Complex dry skin is lacking in both oil and moisture. Dry skin is often dull looking, scaly and flaky. Complex dry skin is often shown by signs of fine lines, discoloration, enlarged pores, brown spots and sagging skin. Chapping and cracking are also signs of dehydrated and dry skin. Dry skin is most often found on areas of the body that are most exposed to the elements, although in areas where the air is quite dry, it can be a problem on the whole body. It can also be aggravated by environmental factors, chemicals and detergents, poor diet habits and bathing with harsh soaps. Nutritional deficiencies can also cause dry skin.

Some vitamins and minerals that can help with dry skin are:

Primrose oil- Contains linoleic acid, which is an essential fatty acid needed by the skin.

Vitamin A- Strengthens and protects the skin tissues.

Kelp- Supplies balanced minerals and helps to provide a good skin tone.

Vitamin E- Applied topically, can help to minimize wrinkling.

Zinc- Is necessary for the proper functioning of the oil-producing glands of the skin.

Collagen- A cream that can restore a healthy tone to dry and damaged skin.

Some herbal supplements and remedies that can be used for dry skin are:

Aloe Vera- when used topically, Aloe Vera has healing and moisturizing properties.

Calendula, Comfrey and Lavender- Can be made into herbal or floral water mists and sprayed onto the skin to help moisturize and soften skin and sooth irritation. Add a few drops of essential oil to 4-5 ounces of water or make an infusion with fresh leaves and flowers. Use to mist your skin throughout the day.

Other ways to help with dry skin are:

Drink plenty of water to help keep skin well hydrated.

Do not use harsh soaps, cold cream or cleansing cream made from hydrogenated oils.

Use a loofah sponge to improve circulation and remove dead skin cells.

Soak in a warm bath with 2 tablespoons pure olive oil added to the water.

Use a moisturizer after cleansing. Use a liquid moisturizer. Do not use solid or waxy moisturizing creams.

Oily Skin

Oily skin is caused by the bodies sebaceous glands producing more oil than is needed for lubrication of the skin. This can clog pores and cause blemishes. Doctors presumably think that oily skin is mainly heredity, but other factors such as hormone levels and diet can cause excess oil as well. Hot weather and humidity can also stimulate sebaceous glands to produce more oil. Negative aspects of oily skin include break outs, enlarged pores and a constant shiny, greasy appearance. Oily skin however, does have a few positive points. It helps to slow the process of fine lines and wrinkles as well as age spots.

Some vitamins and minerals that can be used for oily skin are:

Flaxseed oil and Primrose oil capsules- Supplies necessary fatty acids.

Vitamin A- Necessary for healing and for building new skin tissue.

Vitamin B Complex- Are important for healthy skin tone.

Kelp- Supplies balanced minerals that are needed for good skin tone.

Some herbal supplements and remedies that are good for oily skin are:

Aloe Vera- Applied topically, helps to heal skin problems.

Burdock root and Chamomile- Help provide essential nutrients to the skin.

Witch Hazel- Has astringent properties and helps to tone the skin.

Other ways to help oily skin are:

Keep your skin clean. Use gentle soaps with no artificial additives. Wash 2-3 times daily.

Do not use cleansers or lotions that contain alcohol.

After cleansing, use an oil free moisturizer.

Use a loofah sponge to improve circulation and help remove dead skin cells.

Use a clay mask to help clear away excess oil.

With so many different types of skin problems, it can often be difficult to achieve clear, healthy looking skin. With a little persistence and experimentation though, there is bound to be something out there that will help you. Even if you have combination skin, a mixture of dry and oily skin, it can still be fixed. Simply treat the dry skin for dry skin, and the oily skin for oily skin. Please also note that some of these vitamin, mineral and herbal supplements are meant to be taken orally. I highly recommend that before starting to take any new regimen, you check with your family physician as some natural substances can have adverse affects when mixed with prescription medication. Also, it is always best to take any new supplement under a doctors supervision, as anyone can have an allergic reaction to anything they may ingest. Good luck to all in your quest for clear, beautiful and healthy skin.

Natural Remedies for Acne

Acne, Health, Home-Made, Organic, Skin, Skin Health

There are many individuals around the world who suffer from bad skin flare ups on a regular basis. Skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, blotches, acne, cuts, burns and under eye circles can be cause for much embarrassment and hassle for anyone who has to deal with them. But before you run out and buy the most expensive creams, lotions and prescriptions to treat your skin condition, you should know that there are natural ways to alleviate your skin problems.

Though it's always best for you to go to your doctor for traditional medicine, it's also a good idea to treat yourself naturally between costly prescriptions and for good health. So before you start a natural skin cleansing routine, you should first clear it with your doctor. Here are a few natural remedies found around the house that can help to treat skin problems:

String or Snap Beans: If you are plagued with acne, you may just want to brew your bumps away. Boil a tablespoon of string or snap beans in water and allow it to cool completely. When it is cool to the touch, use the tea to wash your face morning, noon and night. Also, for the best results you can brew and additional tea and drink it.

If you suffer from chronic eczema, just add three tablespoon of dried chamomile flowers to the snap beans after it has been removed from the stove. Cover the pot and let the tea leaves steep until tea cools. Strain and bottle the tea. Use the tea to wash the face every three hours if possible or at least three times a day.

Horseradish and Vinegar: Vinegar is good at lightening the tone and texture of the skin; horseradish clears up the skin beautifully. So if you suffer from spots and blemishes, a horseradish vinegar mix is perfect for you. Grate a horseradish root into some apple cider vinegar and allow the mixture to sit in the sun for 10 days (on a window sill). Strain the vinegar and place it in an airtight jar. When you are about to use the mixture, you should dilute the vinegar with water or milk by 50% and use it to wash the face. Diluting the mixture with milk really helps to relieve eczema itch.

Olive Oil: Olive oil is one of those natural ingredients that work many wonders for the skin. It provides the skin with sheen, nourishment and healing. But if you suffer from regular skin lesions from psoriasis or acne or you would like to help cuts to the skin heal faster, then look no further than olive oil. Mix two cups of virgin olive oil with six egg whites. Sterilize a basting brush and apply the egg/olive oil mixture to the wound. Gauze and bandage the wound for healing. You should change the bandage regularly to keep the area hygienic.

Cucumber: Cucumber slices are excellent to use to fight off under eye puffiness and dark circles under eyes. The ascorbic and caffeic acids found in cucumber make them potent against sunburn, swollen eyes, and dermatitis and make cucumber good for smoothing out the skin. You may also grate cucumber and use it as a facial mask to help clear the skin of blemishes, spots, bumps and acne.

Honey: Honey is a great natural ingredient that helps to heal wounds. So if you have psoriasis and eczema outbreak that leaves your skin damaged and cut a treatment from honey is what you need to undo the damage of these skin ailments. You can mix 80% honey with 20% Vaseline or Crisco shortening and apply it to your wounds and cuts. This mixture is also effective for people who have minor burns. Get a sterilized basting brush and apply the honey/Vaseline mixture to the affected area and bandage.

Amaranth: Amaranth is a natural herb/flower that is also used as a whole grain cereal and as a vegetable in different parts of the world. Amaranth contains essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin K, vitamin C and iron. Amaranth is good for treating many skin problems such as psoriasis, hives, acne and eczema. Just steep a cup of dried amaranth into some boiling water and use it on the affected area for results. Also, you can but amaranth scrubs or amaranth oils if you cannot but amaranth anywhere.

Sea Salt: Sea salt is an amazing natural remedy for skin ailments such as psoriasis, eczema and dermatitis. Sea salt has been shown in studies to relieve the itch, burning and sores associated with these skin problems. Just add some sea salts to the bath water and apply the remedy generously over the body at bath time for relief.

Natural, inexpensive and effective is the way to go to heal your skin conditions. You can get rid of your acnes, bumps, blemishes, dark circles, sores all with nature's very own help.

How to Get Healthier Skin

Cosmetics, Health, Skin, Skin Conditioning, Skin Health

Keep Your Skin in Great Shape with These Easy Tips!

When meeting someone new, most people take notice of the person's face first. For this and other reasons, maintaining clean, healthy skin is paramount to self-esteem, confidence and even attitude.

Getting healthier skin is not contingent upon high-cost prescription medications or obsessive skin care routines. Modifying your daily routine a tiny bit and upholding disciplined cleansing habits can help to add flawless skin to the list of your best qualities.

Eat healthier...

By avoiding foods that often make your face breakout, your skin will be less oily and more resistant to blemishes. Some problem foods that may cause pimples or breakouts include chocolate and other candy, French fries, fast food, pizza and soft drinks.

To get your skin in better shape, you may not have to give up everything that has negative effects on your skin, but rather, eat those things in moderation. Enjoy greasier foods as a special treat or on rare occasion when eating a healthy, balanced meal is out of the question.

Hydrate and exercise...

Drinking the recommended eight glasses of water per day coupled with some regular exercise - walking, running, bicycling, engaging in sports - should have a great impact on one's complexion. Increased blood flow due to aerobic exercise will positively impact one's complexion with a glowing look to replace dull skin.

Not only will exercise and drinking water help skin tone and texture, but it will also make you feel more energized and even better about yourself. By keeping your body in shape, you will feel less stressed and more capable of achieving those things you set out to do.

Monitor sun exposure...

By using a moderate strength sunscreen, you will be protecting your skin from sun damage, skin cancer, aging and premature wrinkles. Too much sun can blister one's lips, leaving them red, sore and charred. Sunburned skin will eventually peel most times, leaving skin areas blotchy and sensitive. The best approach to preventing sunburn and other sun-caused skin problems is to monitor how much time one spends in the sun and to avoid sun exposure by using sunscreen with SPF 15 or greater.

Practice a regular cleansing routine...

Cleanse, exfoliate, tone and moisturize...this daily routine should carry you on your way toward healthier skin. Select a gentle skin cleansing solution that works for your specific type of skin - dry, oily, normal. Using your selected product, cleanse face in a circular motion and rinse with lukewarm water, as hot water zaps skin's moisture.

Follow the cleansing stage with an exfoliant. A granular product is often especially effective in smoothing rough areas and releasing dead skin cells, allowing the face to be better moisturized.

After the exfoliation process concludes, use a toner or an astringent to tighten skin and remove any makeup or cleanser residue. A nice alternative to a toner or astringent would be doing a facial masque at least once a week, which tackles clogged pores while also firming skin and leaving it soft and silky.

Finally, pat skin dry with a soft towel but do not dry up all the water. Apply a moisturizer (with or without sunscreen) to help protect skin from dryness. Those who have oily skin do not have to moisturize as often as those who have dry, normal or combination skin.

By following the daily skin care routine along with drinking lots of water, exercising and protecting your skin from sun damage, you should soon notice positive results. Maintaining discipline and adhering to your goal to achieve healthier skin make the actual task at hand so much easier to accomplish.

Natural Skincare Regimen for Oily Skin

Economical, Home-Made, Oil, Organic, Skin, Skin Health

Skincare Remedies You Can Find in Your Kitchen

Do you struggle with trying to keep your oily skin under control? If your face looks shinier than ever, maybe you are overdoing your skincare regimen in an attempt to dry up the grease. Switching to a gentle, natural routine might be more beneficial in the long run. The last thing you want to do is dry out your face - it will only cause your skin to produce more oil.

Cleanse: Try washing with a natural oil

Washing your face with oil seems like it would do just the opposite of what you want. Oil cleansing is a method of breaking down oil with natural oils to achieve perfectly balanced skin. Read this post on oil cleansing to learn more. On days that you use the oil cleansing method, there is no need to scrub, tone, or hydrate. Another option is to simply use an oil (coconut, for example) as you would a normal cleanser.

Scrub: Mix up a honey and sugar scrub

Mix honey and sugar together to create a scrub in your desired consistency; rub it onto your skin in a circular motion, then rinse. Honey will keep your face from drying out while the sugar exfoliates to remove loose skin cells to prevent clogged pores. Clogged pores cause breakouts, after all - especially with skin that is naturally oily.

Tone: Try a gentle, homemade astringent

Make your own gentle facial toner using ingredients found in your kitchen. Brew a cup of tea and let a packet of green tea steep for about five minutes. Let the tea cool, then apply it to your face with a cotton pad and let dry. Or, mix one part apple cider vinegar with two parts distilled or filtered water. You may need to experiment with the recipe to find what works for you. Let dry and moisturize.

Hydrate: Use a natural moisturizer

Even if you have naturally oily skin, it's a good idea to keep it hydrated; attempting to dry out skin will actually have the reverse effect, and you will produce excess oil to compensate. A small amount of a natural oil will keep your face moisturized. Experiment to find out which type works best for you; I tried coconut oil and found that, even after a couple months, my face felt greasy while using it. Not every product works for everyone, so play around to find what works for you.

Top 10 Ways to Use Coconut Oil as a Beauty Product

Cosmetics, Economical, Oil, Organic, Skin, Skin Conditioning, Skin Health

You might already use coconut oil as a healthy fat in your cooking--but did you know it also has many uses as a natural beauty product? To be honest, there are way more than ten ways to use coconut oil as a beauty product. It wasn't easy, but I finally narrowed it down to the top ten.

1. Facial cleanser. I have heard many people swear by coconut oil as a cleanser and makeup remover. Simply massage it into your skin and remove with a damp washcloth. Pamper yourself further by letting it absorb for a few minutes while placing a warm, damp washcloth over your face, then remove the oil with warm water.

2. Moisturizer and body lotion. Coconut oil is a safe and effective, natural body lotion. You can use coconut oil to moisturize virtually any area of the body. I mainly use it as a facial hydrator, but you can use it on dry knees and elbows, hands...even on your lips and as an anti-wrinkle eye cream.

3. Sunscreen. Coconut oil can help filter the sun's harmful rays to keep your skin from burning. Of course, as this solid oil will melt in the sun, it can be somewhat messy to take to the beach, but it is all-natural and doesn't contain the chemicals that are in most commercial sunscreens.

4. Scalp treatment. I haven't personally tried coconut oil in my hair (yet), but in doing some research, I have found that coconut oil can be used either alone or combined with other natural products to treat a dry, itchy scalp and dandruff. Simply massage it in, allow to absorb for twenty minutes and follow up with shampoo and conditioner.

5. Frizz tamer. It can also be used to tame dry, frizzy hair. After shampooing, simply massage the coconut oil into the ends of your hair, let it absorb while you do the rest of your shower tasks and rinse well.

6. Cuticle cream. Who needs fancy cuticle creams when you have a natural alternative at home? As you are rubbing coconut oil into your hands, massage a little extra into your cuticles for pretty nails. You can do the same with your feet and the skin around your toenails.

7. Heel softener. Soften dry, cracked heels with a coconut oil treatment. Simply rub it into your feet before bedtime and put some socks on to keep the oil on your feet (and not the sheets!) then take them off in the morning for soft, summer-ready feet.

8. Deodorant. I haven't used coconut oil as a deodorant yet, but I have found several different ways to do so. The first option is to simply rub it on with your fingers. You can also make a paste using coconut oil and baking soda. Optionally, you could also add your favorite essential oil for a scented deodorant.

9. Shaving cream. Coconut oil may not lather up like commercial shaving cream, but it will soak into your skin, leaving you with smooth, soft legs. While in the shower, make sure to stay out of the stream of water while shaving and rinse the razor often.

10. Oral hygiene. You will find numerous toothpaste recipes that include coconut oil as an ingredient. Personally, I like to use coconut oil for "oil pulling", during which you swish the oil for twenty minutes then rinse with water. It has many health benefits in addition to healthy teeth, but that is an article for another time.

How do you use coconut oil in your beauty regimen?

Puffy Eyes: Some Do's and Don'ts

Cosmetics, Eye Make Up, Make Up, Skin, Skin Health

People often talk about puffy eyes and bags under the eyes as if they were the same thing. But the two conditions are actually quite different. Bags under the eyes are caused by fat that has accumulated in the under-eye area over time. Once you have bags under your eyes, there's not much short of plastic surgery that can get rid of them. (Although there are ways to conceal them.)

Puffy eyes are a temporary condition often caused by fluid retention. Changes in your hormones (which can occur during pregnancy or menstruation), or even changes in the weather can cause puffy eyes.

Other things that can cause puffy eyes are lack of sleep, crying, drinking alcohol, eating salty foods, or sleeping on your stomach. Drinking a glass of water as much as two hours before going to bed can make you wake up with puffy eyes. If your puffy eyes are red and itchy, they may be caused by allergies. And, in some cases, puffy eyes are hereditary.

Here are some home remedies that can help you deal with puffy eyes.

Use a cold compress on puffy eyes.

Wet a washcloth with cold water (you can use tap water or ice water), and ring it out. Hold the compress over your puffy eyes for fifteen minutes. (Whenever the compress starts to get warm, dunk it in cold water again.) This should relieve the swelling.

Cucumbers are good for puffy eyes.

For decades, people have been using chilled cucumber slices to take away the swelling of puffy eyes. So, if you have a cucumber handy, give it a try.

Sleeping with your head elevated could prevent puffy eyes.

If puffy eyes are a constant problem for you, try sleeping with a few extra pillows. This may help prevent fluids from accumulating around your eyes.

If your puffy eyes are itching, don't rub them.

Rubbing puffy eyes will only irritate them, and make them even puffier. So, no matter how much your puffy eyes itch, resist the urge to rub them.

Don't use hemorrhoid cream on your puffy eyes.

Some people swear that hemorrhoid cream will reduce the swelling from puffy eyes. And maybe it will. However, the chemicals in hemorrhoid cream could be harmful to your eyes, and the delicate skin around your eyes. So, this is one home remedy you might want to pass on.

When should you see a doctor?

Usually, having puffy eyes is a strictly cosmetic problem. However, you should see a doctor if:

• The swelling is really severe, or is only affecting one eye. This could mean you're having an allergic reaction to something.

• Your eyelids won't close all the way, a sign of possible thyroid disease.

• The puffiness doesn't go away.

• You've noticed swelling in other parts of your body.

Puffy eyes might not be a serious condition. But nobody wants to leave the house in the morning with swollen, puffy eyes. And, with these home remedies, you can make your puffy eyes a thing of the past in no time.

The Best Products to Get Rid of Puffy Eyes

Eye Make Up, Make Up, Skin Conditioning, Skin Health

A Quick Guide to Get Rid of Puffy Eyes

If another long night has left you looking slightly under the weather, it's good to know there's help available for the puffy eye dilemma. Puffy eyes are a result of fatigue, stress, dehydration, and too much salt or alcohol in your diet. There are thousands of products claiming to reduce puffy eyes or dark circles overnight, but if you don't have time for the trial and error process, here's a quick guide to the best products to get rid of those puffy eyes immediately:

Biotherm Hydra-Detox Yeux is a powerful moisture infuser, and will perk up the eye area instantly. Just apply about a quarter of a teaspoon on the eye area to tighten and tone your skin and protect this delicate area in the process. The gel-like cream is easy to travel with, and will give your face an instant pick-me-up during those long afternoons at the office.

Clinique Daily Eye Benefits is a great eye cream to firm up and tighten your skin; it's a richer moisturizer, but will give you the instant lift after a late night. Just apply about half a teaspoon to the lids and let it dry; it stays put under makeup, and using this daily will help improve the area over time.

The Pacifica Blue Chamomile Soothing Eye Gel contains potent herbal extracts and vitamins. You'll enjoy the tightening effect of this gel for instant relieve, and keep in mind that just a little goes a long way. The gel is fragrance-free and perfect for sensitive skin.

St. Ives Cucumber & Elastin Eye and Face Stress Gel is another leading contender for your puffiness-reduction plan. The gel is easy to apply and works as an instant refresher; if you're at the computer for extended periods of time, keep this one by your side for some easy refreshment. Use this one each night to reduce the chances of morning puffiness; it's an easy treatment to include in your nightly beauty routine.

If you're looking for something with SPF protection, the Dermalogica Total Eye Care cream is the best pick for all-day treatment. The cream absorbs quickly but you do need to rub it in; just apply it at night before bed as an ongoing treatment, or use it as an emergency solution for puffy eye relief.

Simply drinking plenty of water on a regular basis will help reduce your risk of the 'Shrek effect', and even a splash of cold water can deflate swollen eyes. However, if you're suffering from aleergies, you'll need to get some antibiotic medication from the doctor. Take your pick of these products next time puffy eyes are your biggest beauty dilemma!

Skin Care Products that Will Keep Your Skin Happy and Healthy

Cosmetics, Review, Skin, Skin Conditioning, Skin Health

My Top 5 Skin Care Products on the Market

Your skin is the largest organ of your body so it is important to take good care of it. There are millions of products to help you do this, so I am going to help you make this task a bit easier. Whether you are suffering from acne issues, dry skin, or just want some products to pamper yourself, I've got you covered with an overview of 5 products that are currently on the market right now.

Neutrogena Wave

When I saw commercials for the Neutrogena Wave I was like, "wow, I wonder if that really works?" I didn't rush out an purchase it, but eventually gave in and got one. I was surprised at how much I liked it and how great my skin felt after using it. Once I used it I noticed how my skin felt tingly and clean and I really liked that feeling. My skin also felt softer and my complexion looked better. The Neutrogena Wave kit comes with a 2 week supply of pads, a battery operated power-cleanser, and a battery. You can purchase a Neutrogena Wave at retailers like Wal-Mart.

Clean & Clear Advantage Acne Spot Treatment

As a sufferer of random breakouts I am always grateful to have a product like Clean & Clear Advantage Acne Spot Treatment. I noticed that upon use my face looked clearer the next day. I'm sure that there are numerous products that do this same thing, but this is the first one I have found that I'm not allergic to (does not contain benzol peroxide). If you have the same skin sensitivity as me then you might want to give this product a try. I purchased my treatment from Wal-Mart, but you should be able to find it at Walgreens and other stores similar to it.

Skin ID Acne Treatment

First came Proactiv, then came Murad Acne Complex, next it was the various over the counter copycats, and finally we have Skin ID. So what makes Skin ID different from the aforementioned products? Well first off, Skin ID is tailored to each individual who needs the product. You can head over to www.skinid.com and take the free skin evaluation test. The makers of the treatment determine what medicines you need based on factors such as your skin type, breakout spots, stressors, and a few other factors. If you feel that over the counter products are unable to give you what you need then you might want to give Skin ID a try. Hey if you don't like it you can always send it back, since it has a 100% money back guarantee.

Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturizing Lotion

The winter itch gets me every year but I always turn to Aveeno to help me battle my dry skin. It is the first lotion that I have found that soothes my dry skin. After using it my skin feels all cool and tingly and very refreshed. I would recommend Aveno to anyone looking to sooth their dry skin as well. The active ingredient in Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturizing Lotion is natural colloidal oatmeal. You can purchase this product at most local retailers like Walgreens or Wal-Mart.

Any of the products at Burt's Bees

If you are looking for natural skin care products then you need to head over to www.burtsbees.com and check out their line. They sell products for your lips, face, hands and feet, and hair. Burt's offers products for both men and women and baby and mom. If you are looking for some great lip balm then you might want to purchase one of their seven types of balm. You can even get Burt's Bees lip balm in some local drug stores. There are so many great products on the site that you should head on over there and check it out for your self!

Dealing with Oily Skin

Skin, Skin Conditioning, Skin Health

Tips on Keeping Oily Skin Under Control

If you have oily skin then you understand what a pain it can be. The shimmering glossy look isn't exactly in as far as one's skin in concerned, and the last thing any girl wants to deal with is having to blot their face every couple hours in hopes that the oil will disappear and their make up will stay. The one thing that people with oily skin are hardly taught is just how to care for it.

Unfortunately many people with oily skin take to the idea of washing their face more often. Wait! Turn off that faucet! Repeatedly washing an oily face will only cause the glands to up oil production. So, when you wash your face three to for times a day, you're really instigating the problem and making it much worse. Twice a day (morning and night) is really enough. There are other methods of getting your oily skin to work for you.

First off, we'll start with face washing. Look for a facial cleaner that is a gel as creams may leave residue on your face making the oil problem worse. People with dry to normal skin use creams because it adds the moisture needed, but oily skin doesn't need that. So search for a nice cleansing gel that removes make up, dirt, and oils, and stay away from the creams. Most companies make a gel form facial cleaner, so look for your favorite brand or reviews of the best cleansers for oily skin. Also, try weekly exfoliation. Buy an exfoliation gel, or cream if gel is unavailable, that has nice soft beads to massage your face instead of rip it apart. An exfoliating solution will help to remove any clogged pores and help to reduce the visibility of your pores. If you're using a toner, look for nonalcoholic toners. Alcohol can over dry, and by now you should know what that means. Over dried oily skin will lead to an excessive production of oils to make up for those lost, so a toner with no alcohol or a low alcohol content is best. The same goes for your daily cleanser, gel or no, if it over dries your face drop it like a bad habit.

When moisturizing look for something light. Don't buy a heavy cream or anything that is for dry to normal skin. Look specifically for "no oil added" moisturizing creams. When you find one, moisturize in moderation. There is no need for you to cake on the moisturizing cream before bed and in the morning before make up. Your face produces its own oils, so dab a little on as needed and leave the rest for another day.

Now, it's time to talk make up. If you wear it you're probably used to the mid-day touch up. Just remember, if you have oily skin your mid day touch up needs to be a little different. You need to get that oil off your skin before adding any more make up. By simply adding an extra layer of powder on top of the old oily layer, you're inviting your natural lines and creases to come out. Power tends to settle in the lines around the eyes, mouth, forehead, wherever you have them and can really make you look washed up and worn out. Even if you don't have wrinkles who likes a layer of caked on make up? The remedy? Those nifty little blotting papers. You'll want to carry them around, but use them only in private. Really, blotting your facial oils in public is hardly lady like. Still, they are handy and your mid day touch up will require one of these. Dab (don't rub!) the oily areas to rid them of excess oils. Only once the oils are gone should you apply extra make up as needed, that means apply sparingly to avoid the risk of still seeming cakey.

Additionally, choose the right make ups for you. For one, choose a concealer that caters to oily skin. An acceptable concealer would be oil free but still with some SPF protection. Use a natural, light powder instead of a full matte. If you want the matte finish, try finding a light feeling matte that won't accentuate your oily skin by mid-day. You can ask a make up counter representative, or someone of the like and they might be able to recommend something. It may also help to get the color you want from your concealer so you can go with a completely translucent powder finish.

While these tips aren't going to change your skin type, they will help you deal with it. If after all these changes your skin is still unmanageable, a dermatologist will be able to advise you of medical creams and the like. However, most people learn to deal with their oily skin just fine on their own. You just have to know how to control the oil, and the aforementioned tips are sure to help.

Natural Beauty Treatments: The Ingredients Are in Your Fridge and Cupboards

Economical, Home-Made, Oil, Skin, Skin Conditioning, Skin Health

10 One-Ingredient Natural Beauty Treatments

As women, we spend millions of dollars each year on beauty products. In the process of purchasing the latest and greatest beauty products, we are also putting things on your bodies, which we would not put in our bodies. We could save a bit of money and time of beauty products if we just stopped and looked into the refrigerator for natural beauty treatments. Other added bonuses of natural beauty treatments: these products have no animal testing, and there is a lot less risk of damage to your skin. Following is a list of 1-ingredient natural beauty treatments that will bring out the best in you.

Natural beauty treatment 1

Rich in vitamins and enzymes, the avocado nourishes the body inside and out. The peel especially is the source of essential beatifying oils. Therefore, you can have the avocado on your salad and rub use the peel on your skin. Just massage your face with the inside of the peel and leave on for 15 minutes. You can also rest for 20 minutes with avocado slices under your eyes to relieve puffiness. You can also rub mashed avocado into your skin and rinse after 15 minutes.

Natural beauty treatment 2

The banana is rich in potassium and a great moisturizer for your hair and skin. You can use it alone by mashing the banana and rubbing on your face, neck and hair. Your other option is to add oatmeal to the banana to make an ex-foliating mask or honey for additional softness.

Natural beauty treatment 3

Olive oil can be used as a beauty treatment in many ways. For cuticles and nails, you can soak in it or massage into the cuticles. Use it as a nighttime hand moisturizer under gloves. Dab it on your lips to soften and moisturize. Use it on hair to repair split ends, heal dandruff and make it shiny. Put a few drops of olive oil in the bathtub to moisturize skin. Some people prefer to add essential oils to olive oil to mask the smell.

Natural beauty treatment 4

Egg yolk mask can be used to replenish and tighten skin. Just beat one egg yolk and apply to skin with cotton ball. Rinse your skin after 15 minutes.

Natural beauty treatment 5

Honey is used for oily or blemished skin. Apply it straight from the bottle to your face and neck. Leave it on for 15 minutes and rinse with very warm water. Honey can also be mixed with many other natural ingredients to make and effective mask.

Natural beauty treatment 6

Papaya can be used to remove dead flaky skin. The enzymes in papaya help to dissolve dead and damaged skin cells revealing healthy skin. Mash ½ papayas and apply it to the face. Rinse after 10 minutes.

Natural beauty treatment 7

Witch hazel is just as effective as any expensive as any other astringent. Refill your astringent bottle with witch hazel and you will never notice the difference. Besides, it costs a lot less.

Natural beauty treatment 8

Strawberries should be smashed and used as toothpaste to whiten teeth. It is also used to relieve puffy eyes and remove oil from skin.

Natural beauty treatment 9

Basil leaves can be rubbed on the teeth for whitening. It can also be dried, ground and used as a toothpaste. Basil is also known to have medicinal properties.

Natural beauty treatment 10

Pepto Bismol and Milk of Magnesia, though not naturally occurring, are used to settle and sooth the stomach. These products can be applied to the skin straight from the bottle as a clarifying mask.

How to Naturally Treat Oily Skin

Health, Skin, Skin Conditioning, Skin Health

Help Stop Oily Skin and Prevent it Too

Oily skin can cause several skin problems, including blackheads, shiny skin, makeup that won't stay on the face, and of course, acne. While there are other causes, oily skin is the most likely causes of these conditions. Unfortunately, just washing the face regularly isn't going to prevent oily skin much, and over-washing the face can actually cause more problems than it prevents.

There are over-the-counter products made to treat oily skin, but many of these contain harsh chemicals. Read the label carefully to determine what is in an oily skin care treatment, because sometimes oily skin care products end up leaving the face dry and rough, which really only causes another set of skin care problems. Some products upset the delicate Ph balance of the skin or skin tone, not to mention the chemicals in these products are harsh and just flat out may not be safe to use regularly.

When looking for a solution to oily skin, why not look for a more natural solution?

Essential Oils for Oily Skin

Essential 'oils' is a bit of a misnomer if you're wondering why there's a suggestion of using 'oils' on an oily face. Citrus essential oils, such as lemon, grapefruit, tangerine and orange, can help with oily skin problems without the harsh effects of using the actual juice from the fruits themselves. Find an all-natural herbal lotion base and add 3 to 4 drops per ounce of the citrus essential oil of choice to the base (herbal lotion, skin toner, aloe vera gel, witch hazel). Use it on the face in the evening to help prevent oily skin. Wash the face well in every morning with a gentle antibacterial soap prior to applying any other products on the face.

Blackheads and Oily Skin

Mix an oatmeal paste with unflavored oatmeal, lemon juice and olive oil, using just enough olive oil to wet the mixture. Warm the mixture slightly in the microwave. Scrub it onto the face to pull oil from pores and help reduce blackheads. Be sure to wash the face thoroughly with warm water afterward.

Shiny and Oily Skin

Mix some lemon juice with warm water and a dash of vinegar and then soak a cotton ball in the mixture and rub it on the face. Allow the skin to dry thoroughly without rinsing before applying makeup or other facial products. This will help reduce shine and may also help with excess sweating on the face that can cause makeup to slide off.

Excessive Sweating and Oily Skin

Prior to applying makeup to the face, using a natural and non-scented delicate antiperspirant, such as Dove's natural products, in the solid form can help with excessive sweating, help reduce shine and actually allow makeup to be applied more smoothly on the face. Just gentle apply to the forehead, down the sides of the face and across the cheeks, careful not to get too close to the eyes. This will also help smooth the face and makes the skin very soft and makeup easy to apply.

Wash an Oily Skin Face Gently

Do not overwash the face. Washing the face too frequently can actually cause the body to make more oil because it tricks the body into thinking the face and oil ducts are dry. When washing the face, avoid harsh soaps or chemicals, and settle for more natural alternatives or simply use warm water and a soft washcloth. Do not over scrub, but lightly and gently rub the face with the cloth.

Wear Oil Free Makeup or No Makeup for Oily Skin

Wearing oil based makeup when oily skin is a problem only adds to the problem. Wear as little makeup as necessary to achieve the desired look. When wearing a liquid or cream foundation is desired, choose an oil-free foundation and finish with a powder to seal the foundation. If possible, opt for mineral and all natural powder based foundations to help prevent oily skin.

***

Following these simple, natural tips can help reduce oily skin and improve skin's appearance. Try several of them and see which one works best for you, because every skin type is slightly different, so all these tricks won't work for every person. There's surely one or a combination of them that will work to help prevent and treat your oily skin problems!

Lip Glosses and Balms May Increase Your Risk of Skin Cancer

Cosmetics, Health, Skin Health

If Your Lip Balm Doesn't Have Sunscreen, You Are Putting Your Lips at Greater Risk of Developing Skin Cancer

The next time you step outside, dermatologists recommend thinking about your lips. If you are wearing a lip balm or gloss without sunscreen, you could be increasing your risk of skin cancer. Dr. Christine Brown, a dermatologist at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas, reports that shiny lip balms and glosses actually attract the sun's ultraviolet rays to the lips, which can increase your risk of skin cancer. Dr. Brown says you actually increase the light penetration through the lip surface by applying lip balm or gloss to your lips.

Protecting your lips from the sun is as important as protecting your skin. Dr. Brown recommends applying a base of lip sunblock of SPF 30 under lipsticks or lip glosses. For extended exposure, you should continue to reapply the sunblock to your lips.

Dr. Brown cites a recent study that found that less than 25 percent of Americans use a form of sunscreen on their lips. Most people don't realize that lips are more susceptible than skin to aging from sun damage, which make lips more prone to developing serious cancer. And once skin cancer has developed on the lower lip, it has the potential to be much more aggressive and metastasize to surrounding lymph nodes.

According to the U.S. National Cancer Institute, possible signs of lip cancer include: a sore on the lip or in the mouth that does not heal; a lump or thickening on the lip; a white or red patch on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth; and bleeding, pain, or numbness in the lip or mouth.

People should always check their lips for signs of cancer. If you notice any changes to the color, or if you have persistent peeling or flaking of a spot on your lip, you should see a dermatologist.

Paula Begoun, author of Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter without Me, recommends the following lip balms with a SPF of 30 or more:

Blistex Clear Advance SPF 30 ($1.89)

Blistex Pro Care SPF 30 ($2.49)

Shiseido Sun Protection Lip Treatment SPF 36 ($18.00)

To keep your lips protected on a daily basis, Begoun recommends the following lipsticks and glosses with sunscreen:

Aveda Lip Tint SPF 15 ($11)

Chanel Aqualumiere Sheer Colour Lipshine SPF 15 ($24.50)

E.L.F. Super Glossy Lip Shine SPF 15 ($1)

Paula's Choice Sheer Cream Lipstick SPF 15 ($10.95)

Since these lipsticks have a SPF lower than 30, you should apply additional sunscreen if you are outside for more than twenty minutes at a time.

What Causes Dark Under Eye Circles and How Can You Remedy Them.

Eye Make Up, Health, Skin Conditioning, Skin Health

What Causes Dark Under Eye Circles and How Can You Remedy Them.

Dark under eye circles are for many of us a fact of life we can not seem to escape. At times the Causes are simply a lack of sleep or stress which makes our face look drawn and almost zombie like. At others it is a skin condition or at the worst a medical condition. Over the course of this Article we will address the causes of dark under eye circles in Adults in Section One and in Children in Section two, as well as the Remedies either cosmetic, medical or natural.

Section One: Adults

First we must understand that the skin beneath the eyes is one of the thinnest on the Body. Every little change seems to be magnified and shows strongly. Those of us with fair complexion further more show it the most. Often times these under the eye circles are persistent and give us a continuously tired, sallow and worn out look. Making our Faces look older then we really are. Needless to say, that is not something we are striving for.

Let us take a look at some of the Factors of what can cause these unsightly "Raccoon Eyes" and what we can do to diminish them.

Family Genetics can be a factor.

Dark under eye circles can run in a family, more often seen in those with fair complexion then in darker skins. In that case sadly the only option we really have is to use cosmetics to cover them up. Use a yellow based concealer and blend it in carefully, please make sure not to rub it in too hard. You don't need to stretch or damage the already sensitive area under your eyes. An artful applied eye make-up that draws the eyes of the beholder to the upper eye Area can help as well. By using whites under your eyebrows and then sexy, tastefully or elegantly matched with other colors in combination with a brown or black eyeliner and mascara will make it appear more as an illusionary shadow then an actual under eye circle. A nice hairstyle, colorful clothing or darker lipstick all can help in deverting the attention away from the problem area. Make sure to get enough Vitamins E & D as well as sleep to not further darken those circles.

Lack or poor quality sleep.

The lack of sleep or poor quality sleep cause the blood vessels to become more pronounced under your skin. Your eyes are the first sign of sleepless nights.

Here the solution is pretty simple. Try to get more sleep. If the not the amount of sleep but the quality is the problem, find out what causes you to toss and turn at night. At times when we have a bad mattress that doesn't suit our particular body types we can wake up constantly and going back to sleep can pose a problem. Pillows can be the culprit as well. Make sure you have a relaxed atmosphere before you drift off to sleep. A sleep inducing incense or oil can be helpful, sometimes even a satchel under the pillow. Lavender/Vanilla or Jasmine/Vanilla are relaxing and calming fragrances used in Aromtherapy. A nice cup of milk (hot with honey) or refreshingly cool can also aid your sleep. The Calcium in the Milk is a relaxing factor. Lactose intolerant or just don't like the taste of Milk, try a cup of herbal tea. Chamomile (use the tea for drinking and the tea bags after for placing over your eyes - helps to relax the eye area and is a natural antinflamatory) or a mixture of mint and lemongrass can help you as well. Make sure your room is well ventilated and not too hot or cold for your liking.

Too much Sun Exposure can be the culprit as well.

If you don't take proper care of your skin during sun exposure you are running a high risk of not only Cancer but can also triggering age spots around the eyes. This can weaken the skin even further, which in turn can lead to dark under the eye circles.

Don't misunderstand me here, I am not advising you to stay out of the sun. Our Bodies need sun or we can easily fall into depression if we are deprived of the necessary sun light. Just be smart while going out into the sun. Stay out of the hottest heat, wear a Hat or put on SPF 15 or higher. For us woman there are foundations that have the SPF factors already included. A nice cool Wash clothe treatment after sun exposure is helpful and refreshing as well. Just put a cold compress over your eyes gently for about 10 minutes to once again shrink the veins to their normal size.

Too much smoking or salt use.

Smoking or the use of too much dietary salt can cause the veins to retain too much fluids, therefore becoming engorged and dilated. The obvious course of action is to watch your salt intake and either reduce your smoking habits or quit smoking all together if you are able.

Your Diet might be at fault.

Extreme weightloss is often a factor as well. The Body is reacting to the changes. When you are on a diet make sure to lose the weight at a healthy pace. Make certain to get the required Vitamins and Minerals your body needs and to eat healthy.

Simply getting old.

As we get old the fat pads under our eyes start shrinking which gives us that shrunken in look. At this point you can either see a cosmetic surgon and discuss cosmetic procedures or you can once again reach for the good and tried make up magic. However, a good diet and a healthy active lifestyle can help you stay younger looking.

Stress

Stress is a silent killer of humankind. Not only can it cause us to have mental and physical ailments if kept unchecked, but it can wreak havoc with our looks as well. By trying to reduce your stress, you can help reduce the appearance of dark under eye circles.

The wrong Make-up.

Believe it or not if you purchase make up (foundations and powders) that are too heavy for your particular skin it can cause minor bruising under your eyes. That is why a smart make up Artist avoid pushing, rubbing or applying of make up too heavy handed under this very delicate Area of your Face.

Allergies.

If you suffer from Hay Fever or other Sinus Related Allergies you can find your Under the Eye Area affected as well. See a Doctor or purchase some over the counter medicine to take care of your allergies. Once you have those under control your under the eye circles will diminish as well.

Section Two: Children

What however is the cause in dark under eye Circles in our littlest ones? Research has shown that dark under eye circles are more prominent in fair skinned Children. It however is no reason to panic. Besides the lack of sleep that even kids have at one point or the other the origin is often as simple as congestion of the nose. This congestion of the nose causes the fine little veins around the eyes to darken and grow larger.

Kids are more prone to Allergies and Colds then us adults.

Summertime Hay fevers, recurring colds and allergies or a chronic sinus infection can be to blame. Constant breathing through the mouth due to abnormally large adenoids can be counted as the core problem in some cases as well. See a Doctor and have him address and fix the problem. By describing the appropriate medical procedure in case of Adenoids this can be brought under control at a very young age.

Treat the underlying cause of the dark eyes;

be it by using allergy medicine for allergy or hay fever or other medicines and the dark circles will disappear.

Try a washcloth Treatment.

Since dark circles are a result of enlarged veins you can help them vanish by "shrinking" those Veins again. Try applying cold washcloth compresses to the area. Wring the cloth out for 10 - 15 min in cold water and make sure to reapply it often. If your child is a little fussy (for younger ones around 3 Years) you can also soak the Washcloth in a cooled down chamomile tincture. (Strongly diluted Chamomile Tea).

Make sure they have the sleep their little Bodies need.

If you have kids you already know the bedtime battles we all face. No matter how much they protest and think they have all the sleep they need, kids need to get their 8 Hours of sleep and their undisturbed REM Periods. Make their Bedtime a constant and set Ritual which makes it easier for them to go to sleep.

We can see Advertisements all over the News, Magazines and TV Advertisements for quick fixes for dark under the eye circles. Before you spend hundreds of Dollars on Remedies that may or not work please try to work with the causes listed above first and see if by treating the culprits you can go the natural route, if not please make certain to ask questions on Forums first. Get unpaid testimonies and read the labels carefully

How to Naturally Cure Black Circles Under Your Eyes

Eye Make Up, Health, Skin Conditioning, Skin Health

I'm a big believer in using natural remedies to treat common beauty problems. I come from a family where black circles are just a fact of life because of genetics, but that doesn't make me hate how they look any less. For years I tried to cover them up with make-up which of course only partly took care of the problem because as soon as I rubbed my eye the make-up would come off, sometimes before I even realized it had happened. I began searching for natural ways to take care of this problem and was pretty astonished to discover that some of the ingredients for these treatments I already had in my kitchen.

There can be a number of reasons you have black circles under your eyes. Lack of sleep, stress, genetics, fluid retention, and aging. Whatever the reason for those dark circles under your eyes, they can be treated and naturally.

One thing that is recommended over and over to treat dark circles under the eyes is to drink plenty of water, and have a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables. So, one of the first things you want to do if you are trying to get rid of those dark circles beneath your eyes if you haven't already is to start drinking plenty of water. Then if you haven't already begin adding fruits and vegetables to your diet until they become a staple for you.

Are you in a hurry though? Do you want to see some results right away without having to wait? There are plenty of remedies that you can try in the comfort and convenience of your own home. Here are some of my favorites.

1. Put two teaspoons in the refrigerator, and then wait for them to get cold. Once they are cold, lie down on your back and put the spoons on your dark circles. This has a two fold benefit in that it will refresh the area underneath your eyes as well as the eyes themselves.

2. Dip two cotton balls in cucumber juice and place them on your eyes for 15 minutes. They will refresh tired eyes and take care of those black circles!

3. Cover your eyes with cucumber slices when you're feeling stressed.

4. Put cool teabags on the eyes. Teabags with chamomile in them are best as chamomile is an anti-inflammatory meaning it will reduce swelling in the tissue beneath the eyes.

5. You can also make and apply a paste of milk and powdered almonds to your dark circles.

6. Massage your eyes regularly. Take your ring finger and start at the corner of the eye, then push down with very gentle pressure a few times. Then using your middle finger as well, move your fingers from the inside corner of your eye to the outside corner, traveling along the dark circle beneath your eye. Put gentle pressure on the dark circle area with your middle finger.

The one where you put two cold teaspoons on the under eye area is my favorite and seems to be the easiest one that works well. The great thing about all these remedies is that you can find everything in your kitchen, or get it easily at the store. So, try one or more of these natural remedies and banish those dark circles while looking years younger in the process!

How to Fix Tired Eyes Quick

Eye Make Up, Make Up, Skin Conditioning, Skin Health

Going out tonight but your eyes make it look like you have had the week from Hades? Don't worry. There are a few makeup tricks that will have your eyes looking fresh in just minutes. Knowing what to use and how to use it will keep you from answering all those nagging questions about what is keeping you up at night.

Here are some quick ways to fix tired eyes.

Condition Your Lashes: Lush eyelashes do not stick around forever so take of your eyelashes now. Healthy looking lush eyelashes can really make a huge difference to the look of your eye taking them from drab to fabulous. Conditioning your lashes with conditioning mascara is a great way to strengthen you eyelashes. For those who already have skimpy eyelashes, teh conditioner is a great product because the ingredients will plump up your lashes when applied. You can buy clear conditioning mascara for a natural look or colored mascara to get both the defined lashes and the conditioner at once.

Choose the Right Concealer: The quickest way to fix the dark circles under your eyes that just will not go away is with concealer. Any concealer will not work though, look for cover up that is one shade lighter than your skin tone and has a yellow color base. Tired eyes will look instantly lighter and fresh. A word of caution here, avoid overloading your eyes with concealer which will just end up making your eyes look worse. Also use the following tip to draw attention up and away from your lower eye lid.

Line Your Eye Lids: Lining your upper lash lines serves two purposes. The first is to help solve the problem of darck circles under yoru eyes, adding eye liner will draw the people's attention up and away from those dark lids. Second, eyeliner opens the eye making it pop more and help fake a fresh looking eye. Avoid using very rich and dark tones of eyeliner; instead try on a natural color that is also smudge proof.

Add Shimmer: Do not go glitter crazy!! A little bit of shimmer in the right places can drastically change the appearance of your eyes making them look wider and brighter. Instead of adding shimmery eye shadow to your entire lid, use a muted eyeliner in as natural a color as possible. Then with the tip of your finger dab on some shimmery eyeliner in the inner corner of your eye and spread it halfway across your eyelid. Do this on the bottom eyelid as well.

With the right products you can have your tired looking eyes looking fabulous in minutes.

You Are Beautiful

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