If we know one thing about winter, it is that the weather is colder and skin can dry out easily. The constant changing of environments does not do the skin any favors. Being bundled up outside in the cold and then going inside to the warm, dry heat is a recipe for dry skin. Fortunately, you can pamper your skin and bring it back to life with the homemade body butter in this article. It is filled with natural ingredients that help to leave the skin feeling soft, radiant, and supple. 

What’s The Difference Between Body Butter And Lotion?

Both body lotions and body butters work to moisturize the skin below the neck. Each of these skin care products can help soften skin and minimize dryness, but they work differently. The primary difference between lotion and body butter is the texture. While lotion has a higher water content and more liquid consistency, body butter is thicker and creamier. Body butter also tends to have a higher concentration of heavy moisturizers, such as shea butter. Body lotion tends to be formulated with glycerin, or other lightweight hydrators. 

Generally speaking, body butter is ideal for dry or rough skin. The ingredients work to replenish the skin’s natural oils and protect them from stressors that increase irritation or dryness. Below, we’ll detail two ingredients that make this body butter highly nourishing for the skin.

Shea Butter

Shea butter comes from the kernels of shea trees, which are native to sub-Saharan Africa. To this day, most shea butter still comes from this region. Shea butter helps promote hydration because it contains several types of fatty acids, including oleic, linoleic, palmitic, and stearic acids. These work to improve the skin barrier and protect the skin from damaging environmental pollutants. Shea butter also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, making it great for nourishing inflamed or upset skin. Additionally, shea butter is thought to offer mild protection from the sun, although it is not a replacement for standard sunscreen. 

Coconut Oil

Promoted for its ability to moisturize dry skin, coconut oil offers many compounds that help improve overall skin health. It exhibits antibacterial, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties when applied topically. Studies have shown that it may help relieve symptoms of atopic dermatitis or eczema, which can cause itchy rash. The anti-inflammatory properties work to improve skin barrier function and prevent moisture loss. And while coconut oil may not be able to remove stretch marks, it is possible that topical application may help reduce their appearance. More research is necessary on that topic, though. 

Whipped Gingerbread Body Butter

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup raw shea butter
• 1/2 cup coconut oil 
• 1/4 tsp  gingerbread spice
• 4 drops ginger essential oil
• 4 drops cinnamon essential oil
• 2 drops clove essential oil
• 2 drops vanilla essential oil

Instructions:

• Add the shea butter and coconut oil to a heat-safe bowl or measuring cup. Melt the two ingredients in the microwave for one minute. 
• Remove and stir well. If the shea butter and coconut oil are not fully melted, heat in the microwave for an additional 30 seconds. Remove and stir well again to combine.
• Transfer the melted mixture to the bowl of a stand mixer and refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour. 
• Remove from the refrigerator and use the stand mixer to whip the mixture on high for five minutes. Stop to scrape down the sides every minute and continue blending until you have a light, fluffy cream. 
• Add the gingerbread spice and essential oils and mix on low to incorporate. Spoon the mixture into a jar, cover, and store in the fridge. Use as needed.

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Did you ever think of putting coffee grounds on your skin? Did you have the same thought about oats? If you did, then you clicked on the right article! This homemade face and body scrub is incredibly easy to make and helps nourish the skin. Learning about the different uses of ingredients, especially foods, can open your world to exciting possibilities. Plus, there are many benefits to scrubbing different foods on the skin. 

Is Coffee Good For Your Skin?

In short, yes, or it is possible that caffeine encourages healthier skin. A 2013 study found that caffeic acid, an antioxidant in coffee, may enhance collagen production, which works to reduce signs of aging. A separate study from 2015 found a link between drinking coffee and reduced signs of “photoaging.” In the case of the study, photoaging referred to pigmented spots and wrinkles. 

There is one caveat about coffee and cosmetics. Most coffee-related research focuses on drinking coffee or using cosmetic products that contain caffeine. Most studies do not focus on coffee scrubs, so it is difficult to generalize the results of these studies in relation to the coffee scrub in this article. That said, there is likely no harm in using a coffee scrub on your body. Much like other exfoliants, coffee scrubs can help:

• Unclog pores
• Slough away dead skin cells
• Temporarily reduce the appearance of cellulite
• Brighten skin

Are Oats Good For The Skin?

Much like coffee, oats are best known for their culinary uses. Oats have been a cultivated food source for humans for over 3,000 years. Some researchers note that the oldest cultivated oat grains date back to the early Bronze Age. Despite the mass consumption of oats, people have used them for a variety of cosmetic purposes, including natural skin cleansers. One of the primary benefits of oats is that they help to hydrate and nourish dry skin. Many studies show that skin care products containing oatmeal can reduce skin dryness and associated symptoms, such as itching, flaking, or tightness. In addition to keeping the skin well-hydrated, oats also help to balance the skin’s pH. Oats are essentially a pH buffer, helping your skin maintain a healthy pH of around 5.0.

Does Avocado Oil Encourage Healthier Skin?

Avocado is naturally rich in vitamin E, potassium, and lecithin, all of which work to nourish and moisturize the skin. The skin’s outermost layer, the epidermis, can easily absorb these nutrients, which can encourage the formation of healthy, new skin. The antioxidants in avocado oil may help to repair damaged skin or soothe irritated skin and redness. That makes avocado oil a helpful ingredient for people with psoriasis or eczema. Finally, some studies have suggested that avocado oil may help ease the symptoms of sunburn. A 2011 review of studies found that the vitamin E, protein, essential fatty acids, and beta-carotene in avocado oil help soothe the skin and encourage healing. 

DIY Face And Body Scrub

Ingredients For Coffee Infused Oil:

• 1 cup avocado oil
• 1/2 cup coffee grounds

Ingredients For Scrub:

• 8 tablespoons coffee grounds
• 4 tablespoons oats
• 4 tablespoons coffee infused oil
• 20 drops vanilla essential oil

Instructions:

• To make the coffee infused oil, put the coffee grounds into a glass jar and pour the avocado oil into the jar. Screw the lid on and let it sit in the sun for a few weeks, shaking every so often. 
• After a few weeks, strain the oil through a cheesecloth and save the strained oil to make the scrub. 
• Add the coffee grounds and oatmeal to a blender or food processor and blend until you get a fine powder. 
• Pour in the blended mixture into a bowl and then add in the coffee infused oil and essential oil. Mix well until you achieve an even consistency. 
• To use, mix this scrub with a little water and spread over your face and body. Rinse with lukewarm water and then finish your skin care routine.

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If your skin is dry, then it lacks moisture. What causes this lack of moisture, though? To correct the problem, you apply moisturizer, but that doesn’t seem to relieve dry skin. It’s more likely that there are other, more surprising, causes for your dry skin. In this article, we aim to highlight some of these causes, so that you can address the problem accordingly. 

Dermatologists agree that dry skin is caused by an impaired skin barrier and a deficiency or dysfunction in the healthy fats in the skin’s top layer. This outermost layer is made up of natural oils and dead cells, which trap moisture to keep the skin supple and soft. If there isn’t enough water in this layer, however, the skin dries out. The good news is that dry skin is not really a major concern, as it can happen to people of all ages at any time, on any area of the body. 

Although your first thought may be to lather on the moisturizer, you may want to first get to the root of the problem. What is causing that dryness? Read on to find out. 

Hard Water

If tap water has a high concentration of minerals, such as magnesium and calcium, the U.S. Geological Survey classifies that as hard water. Those minerals leave a film on the skin that dries out. Heavy metals turn the skin’s oils into a thick substance that can clog glands, which aggravates acnes and rosacea. They also make it so the skin cannot absorb moisturizers. You can invest in faucet filters or skin care products that contain vitamins A and C to help counteract the hard water problem. 

Overzealous Hand-washing

Ever since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, people started washing their hands a lot more than they did before. Clean hands are great, and you should wash your hands. The problem is that constant hand-washing will not help dryness. In fact, it increases the risk of cracked or dry skin. That can be a problem if you work in an industry that requires frequent hand-washing, such as healthcare or food service. Try to use lukewarm water instead of hot water and opt for moisturizing soaps. Gently wash your hands and finish with a lotion or moisturizer. 

Fragrances Cause Irritation

If you see the word “fragrance” on a lotion, soap, or other skin care product, you should avoid it. Dermatologists note that fragrances have a tendency to irritate dry skin or make it worse. Fragrances are common sources of allergens, including those that cause contact dermatitis, and endocrine disruptors. It may take a few exposures or applications before your skin reacts, or your skin may react the first time. Always check the ingredients on your skin care products, especially if you deal with dry skin. 

Soap May Zap The Skin’s Moisture

A lot of soaps, shampoos, and detergents can zap the skin and scalp of moisture. These products are made to remove oil, which is not something you want if you deal with dry skin. Choose your face washes, body washes, and laundry detergents carefully. A moisturizing body wash is better than a harsh soap, so long as that body wash doesn’t have harmful fragrances. Additionally, watch out for harsh detergents and fabric softeners if you have dry skin. 

Genetics

Researchers note that you can inherit dry skin. Thanks a lot, parents. One study observed mutations in genes that control filaggrin, which plays a role in forming and hydrating the skin barrier. The findings indicated that people with these mutations suffer from drier skin and have a higher risk of developing eczema. If you have dealt with dry skin throughout your life, or it runs in your family, be diligent with moisturizing. Ceramides and lipids, which you can find in moisturizers, help build and strengthen the skin barrier. 

Long Hot Showers Can Dehydrate The Skin

How great does it feel to stand under steaming, hot water for a long time? It’s quite relaxing, especially if the weather is colder. Standing in that hot water can cause skin issues, though. If you take long, steamy showers or baths, you can dry out the moisture in your skin. Limit your showers to no more than five minutes and try to keep the temperature lukewarm. Apply a moisturizing cream within one minute of exiting the shower because moisturizers work best on damp skin.

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Making your own beauty or skin care products does not mean your home has to look like a science experiment. You don’t need beakers of sweet almond oil, gallons of olive oil, tubs of shea butter, and essential oil dropper bottles around the house. A few simple ingredients can take you far on your journey toward a more natural skin care routine. The homemade facial moisturizer in this article is an easy entry point, provided you’ve been looking to get started.

Oils Moisturizing 101

To moisturize with oils may be counterintuitive for some people, especially if you have oily skin. Well, we are about to change your life. Your skin is most likely oily because it doesn’t get the moisture it requires. It likely over-produces oil to compensate for the lack of moisture. Before you just dunk your hand in a vat of oil, though, keep in mind that certain oils benefit facial skin, while others do not. That isn’t to say you cannot use them on your body, but facial skin is delicate and requires the right ingredients. 

Start With Your Base Oil

Before we get started on your base oil, just keep in mind that you should never moisturize a dirty face. Always cleanse your face in some way before you moisturize. Your base oil is your carrier oil, which makes up two-thirds of the facial moisturizer. Great carrier oils for all skin types are argan oil and jojoba oil. Not only are both of these oils very light and nourishing, but they are easily absorbed by the skin, so they don’t leave a greasy residue. Other oils you can choose from include:

• Apricot kernel oil: Great for any skin type, especially dry, normal, or aging skin.
• Sweet almond oil: This is an all-around great oil for the skin, but it takes a little longer to sink in than others.
• Avocado oil: Great for dry or aging skin. 
• Grapeseed oil: Great for oily, normal, or acne-prone skin.

Extra Nourishing Oils

For your second ingredient, you want to add a nourishing oil that builds on the benefits of your base oil. Some of these oils come with a hefty price tag, but they last a long time and have the benefits to boot. Here are some ideas for nourishing oils to add to your moisturizer:

• Rosehip seed oil: Known for its firming and anti-aging abilities, this oil is incredibly regenerating and great for dry and aging skin.
• Evening primrose oil: Whether you have acne-prone, normal, aging, or oily skin, this oil can help even out complexion and fight acne. 
• Tamanu oil: This is a wonderful oil for oily or acne-prone skin, or even skin with lots of scars. 
• Carrot seed oil: You don’t need a lot of this oil, which is superb for any skin type. 
• Sea buckthorn oil: A powerfully nourishing that benefits people with aging or dry skin. 

Add Your Essentials

Essential oils are potent, so a little goes a long way. There are so many essential oils with varying benefits, so it can be hard to choose which one to add to your DIY skin care products. Some are more intense, so always do a patch test on your arm and wait 24 hours to see if you develop a reaction before applying to the face. Never apply essential oils directly to the skin, as they require dilution to reduce intensity. Some great essential oils include:

• Chamomile essential oil: This is wonderfully soothing and great for all skin types, but it can be a bit expensive.
• Rose essential oil: A fairly inexpensive essential oil, rose is great for dry, normal, or aging skin. It is also possible to find this mixed with jojoba oil. 
• Lavender essential oil: Great for acne-prone, oily, or dry skin, lavender is quite healing, but just remember that a little goes a long way.
• Peppermint essential oil: great for oily or acne-prone skin, peppermint is very astringent, so it may tingle the skin. 
• Lemongrass essential oil: This oil may help brighten and tone the skin, and is beneficial for oily or normal skin. 

Homemade Facial Moisturizer

Ingredients:

• Base oil (such as argan oil or jojoba oil)
• Nourishing oil (such as rosehip seed oil or tamanu oil)
• 4-7 drops essential oil of choice

Instructions:

• Fill a small four-ounce bottle two-thirds of the way full with your base oil. 
• Add your bonus nourishing oil until the bottle is just about full. If you use carrot seed oil, just put a few drops in. 
• Add four to seven drops of essential oil, screw on the cap, and shake well to combine. Make sure to shake the bottle before every use. 
• Keep the moisturizer in an amber-glass bottle in a cool, dark place for eight to 12 months.

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Although it’s not officially summer, the sun is out and the weather is warming up. That means that your exposure to UVB rays from the sun is inevitable. These rays cause the skin to redden and blister if you don’t take the proper measures to protect your skin. Allowing the sun to damage the outer protective layers of the skin increases the risk of dry skin and skin cancer. In fact, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) said that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer at one point during their lifetime. 

There’s nothing like a relaxing day in the sun. While it’s important to swim in the lake or ocean, get a tan, throw a football, and enjoy snacks outside, it’s equally as important to protect the skin while outside the water. You may find it shocking that a recent study found that 46% of Americans never wear sunscreen. The same study revealed that 62% of Americans use anti-aging products. This is strange, considering that sun-damaged skin looks older, as too much sun exposure damages the outer layers of the skin. It’s actually better to apply a natural sunscreen daily to keep the skin looking young and healthy. 

Summer is around the corner, which means that sunburns are as well. The sun can burn your skin quickly if you are not prepared. Keep the following tips in mind to help you prevent sunburn this summer. 

Be Selective About Your Outdoor Time

If you want to keep your skin healthy and safe, avoid time in the direct heat, which tends to occur during peak sun hours. Generally speaking, peak sun hours range from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., but these times may vary upon your location. If you are out on the lake or on the beach, water reflects the sun’s rays, giving you more sun exposure. Not only does spending time in peak heat increase the risk of sunburn, but it also makes you prone to dehydration. If you have to be in the sun during peak hours, wear sunscreen, light clothing, and a hat for extra protection. 

Apply Sunscreen At The Right Time

There are sunscreens that are both gentler on your skin and eco-friendly. They are reef-safe, meaning that they don’t damage the coral, which is dying or already dead in most areas of the ocean. Apply sunscreen about 15 to 30 minutes before you go outside. This allows the sunscreen time to set on the skin, and you won’t start sweating it off immediately in the sun. You should also choose a lip balm with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. 

Wear Sunscreen Responsibly

To piggyback on the aforementioned tip, you should wear the right type of sunscreen. If you are going to spend time near or in the water, purchase water-resistant sunscreen, otherwise it will wash away easily. Another thing to consider is that you should apply enough sunscreen to fill a shot glass when you first apply. Additionally, opt for non-spray sunscreens for your children. According to the FDA, spray sunscreens are discouraged for children because the chemicals can be inhaled and cause respiratory problems. Many people think that spray sunscreens are easier to apply, but they don’t apply enough and it’s easier to miss spots. 

Don’t Be Shy, Accessorize

Hats and sunglasses are your friends during the warmer summer months. While a regular baseball cap may suit you on a slightly sunny day, a hat with a wide brim that goes around the hat is best for peak heat sun time. Sun hats and farmer/beach hats offer wonderful protection for your ears, neck, and face. While all sunglasses are beneficial, sunglasses that have polarized lenses with 99-100% UV protection better protect your eyes and the surrounding skin.

Seek Shade When Possible

Naturally, an efficient way to avoid sunburn is to seek out shade. Depending on how shady the area is, though, you may still need to apply a layer of sunscreen for protection, especially if you are prone to sunburn. If you have fair skin, 15 minutes of direct sun exposure can lead to sunburn. A good rule of thumb is to spend at least as much time under cover as you do in the sun. 

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If you want to rid your skin of impurities that settle on it during the day, you have to cleanse. Failure to cleanse will cause these impurities to clog your pores and increase the risk of skin infections or blemishes. Your pores allow your skin to breathe, so you have to keep them clean in order to keep the skin from suffocating. 

Toning is another integral aspect of your skin care routine. Despite what you may think about toners, they help to balance the skin’s pH and clean whatever cleansers leave behind. Healthy skin should have a slightly acidic pH in order to prevent microbial overgrowth, which ultimately prevents skin infections. 

Why Do You Need A Moisturizer?

You thought we were never going to get to moisturizers in an article about a DIY moisturizer, right? We finally did it! Moisturizing is necessary if you want to preserve and strengthen the skin’s structural integrity. Topical lubrication (moisturizing) helps keep your skin soft, supple, and elastic. Dry skin is usually less flexible and can rupture easily if overstretched. The breakdown of fibers causes the skin to lose elasticity, which contributes to saggy skin. Loose skin also tends to crease and fold, which leads to fine lines and wrinkles.

Additionally, collagen synthesis within the body declines with age. Collagen is the main structural protein that is needed to build new skin cells. An inadequate supply of collagen makes it more difficult for the skin to repair itself. To sum that up for you, don’t take skin dryness lightly because it can increase the risk of long-term skin damage. By regularly treating your skin with a topical moisturizer, you can help strengthen the barrier function to make it look and feel better. If your skin is more hydrated, it is less prone to acne!

Dry Skin And Acne

When you think of acne, you probably think of oily skin, but acne affects dry skin as well. The sebaceous glands in the skin produce lipids (fats) that keep it hydrated. If you have dry skin, these glands produce too much oil to make up for the lack of moisture in the skin. The excess oil (sebum) builds up in the skin’s pores and can congest the skin. Clogged pores are breeding grounds for acne-causing bacteria, which feed on the excess sebum and skin debris. With all that food available, the bacteria proliferate rapidly and cause breakouts. 

Moisturizers come in many forms, such as creams, lotions, and ointments. They also have varying consistencies, usually oil-based and thick or water-based and lightweight). Ideally, choose a moisturizer that suits your skin’s needs. If you have a skin condition or know your skin type, choose a moisturizer that will benefit your skin. The following DIY moisturizer contains two standout ingredients that benefit a variety of skin types and conditions: 

• Aloe vera: The gel from the aloe plant acts as a humectant, drawing moisture from the environment and locking it into your skin. This provides long-lasting hydration! It also contains anti-inflammatory properties that help to ease redness, swelling, pain, and itching, all of which are associated with inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and acne. 
• Coconut oil: Commonly used in hair care, coconut oil works to keep the skin supple, soft, and young by providing nourishment and hydration. The skin can easily absorb coconut oil, which allows it to moisturize at a deeper level. Additionally, coconut oil offers antibacterial and antifungal properties, which may help prevent skin infections. 

DIY Moisturizer

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup each: coconut oil, beeswax pastilles, and fresh aloe vera gel
• 1 tablespoon vitamin E oil
• 4 drops peppermint essential oil

Instructions:

• Place a small saucepan filled with a few inches of water over medium low heat. 
• Add the coconut oil and beeswax pastilles to a heat-safe glass jar and place it in the saucepan on the stove. Leave the jar in the saucepan, stirring occasionally until the ingredients are completely melted. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool for an hour or more. 
• Once the mixture has cooled, spoon it into a medium-sized mixing bowl and whisk with a hand mixer or immersion blender to combine. Pour in the aloe vera gel while whisking with your mixer of choice. 
• Add the vitamin E oil and peppermint essential oil and continue to whisk. Use a spoon to transfer this mixture into a glass jar. Store a small amount in a small container to extend the shelf life. 
• To use, smear a thin layer of this moisturizer on your skin after washing with a mild cleanser. Massage the moisturizer into the skin in gentle, circular motions until properly absorbed. Apply twice daily.

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It’s safe to say that people are not afraid of putting oils on their skin anymore, and rightly so. That’s great, considering that beauty shelves used to be replete with oil-free ads. Applying oil to the skin is not a new practice; rather, many cultures have used oils to benefit the skin for centuries. Various oils exhibit skin-nourishing properties, but you do have to find the right oil for your skin type. 

What Is A Carrier Oil?

A carrier oil is plant-based and tends to have a neutral or mild scent. You can use them on their own, or mix them with other oils, such as essential oils. The great thing about carrier oils is that they do not contain fillers or chemicals that you typically find in store bought skin care products. The main thing to keep in mind when buying these oils, though, is to make sure they are cold-pressed. That is the best method of extraction for preserving their health properties. 

A carrier oil can help to naturally moisturize, protect, and improve the overall quality of the skin. Different carrier oils may benefit certain skin conditions, while others aim to rejuvenate and improve the skin’s appearance. Some can even help you balance oil production, offer anti-aging effects, and enhance the skin barrier. Below, you will find great carrier oils for different skin types. 

Hemp Seed Oil

Hemp seed oil is naturally rich in both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which help it function as a natural humectant. A humectant is a substance that attracts water, so it helps to hydrate the skin, nails, and even hair. Hemp seed oil is non comedogenic, meaning it will not clog your pores, and that makes it suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone or oily skin. The antioxidants in hemp seed oil work to reduce the signs of aging, while the anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritated skin. 

Sunflower Oil

Beauty experts note that sunflower oil is naturally balanced, meaning it is not too heavy or too light. Sunflower oil is widely available and works to promote skin hydration, protect the skin barrier, and reduce water loss. According to research, sunflower oil is naturally rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which is why it is a common ingredient in anti-aging skin care products. Several studies indicate that the anti-inflammatory properties in sunflower oil benefit people with eczema, or general redness or skin irritation. Use it as a post-shower body oil, an anti-aging mask, or after-sun nourishment. 

Olive Oil

Rich in vitamins A and E, olive oil is a great carrier oil choice if you want to reduce premature signs of aging. Olive oil’s polyphenols, antioxidants, and immune enhancers make it great for skin protection. It works to fight the effects of sun damage and may even soothe inflammation. That said, do not use olive oil topically if you have a history of eczema or allergic contact dermatitis. It has been associated with worsening atopic dermatitis.

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil is extracted from the seeds of the jojoba plant, jojoba oil is one of the most common carrier oils in existence. It is beneficial for nearly all skin types and is rich in antioxidants, vitamin E, and nourishing fatty acids. Jojoba oil can help moisturize the skin without leaving a heavy residue behind. You can use jojoba oil if you have combination skin, dry skin, or oily skin because it mimics the skin’s natural oils. Jojoba oil is also a natural emollient, helping to maintain a protective skin barrier. 

Sweet Almond Oil

Sure, almonds are a healthy, filling snack, but have you ever used sweet almond oil to nourish your skin? If you have very sensitive or dry skin, sweet almond oil will be a great moisturizing treat for your skin. It is replete with vitamin E, fatty acids, proteins, and various minerals, all of which encourage healthier skin. You can use sweet almond oil as a body oil, combining it with rose petals for an optimal floral scent and enhanced antioxidant activity.

Argan Oil

Great for the hair and skin, argan oil has been an effective moisturizer and cosmetic oil for centuries. Although evidence-based studies are lacking, argan oil has helped many people reduce premature signs of aging. Some research indicates that argan oil can restore some of the skin’s natural hydration and elasticity after menopause. Its anti-melanin action makes argan oil great for evening out skin tone. Argan oil also works to promote collagen production, replenish the skin with fatty acids, and treat acne.

Avocado Oil

As you know, avocados are naturally rich in fatty acids and beneficial nutrients. That makes avocado oil the perfect oil for moisturizing dry skin. Because it has vitamins A, D, and E, avocado oil helps support collagen production and fights signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles. Among other beneficial properties, avocado oil works to moisturize dry skin and fight free radicals, which contribute to early signs of aging.

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Do you suffer from crow’s feet, dark circles, or puffy bags under the eyes? Even if you hydrate throughout the day, those pesky bags show up the morning after. Sometimes, you just don’t get the sleep you need and you wake up looking like a zombie. Whatever the reason, puffy eyes and dark circles are not welcome and we have a great cooling face mask to help get rid of them. 

Don’t you just love getting food on your face? Sorry, let’s rephrase that. Don’t you love putting food on your face because it has healing properties that can improve the health of your skin? You don’t need a lot of food; rather, a cucumber, coconut oil, and some aloe vera will do the trick! If you want to get fancy and take things up a notch, add a few drops of carrot seed essential oil to help regenerate and renew the skin under your eyes. 

Unlike other face masks that we’ve posted in the past, this face mask is not a concoction that you lather on your face. After blending the ingredients together to form a smooth cream, you transfer the mixture to an ice tray and freeze. When your eyes are puffy, pop out a cube, apply all around the eye area, leave on for 10-15 minutes, and then rinse away. It’s so refreshing and cooling!

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil contains small- and medium-chain fatty acids that help reduce inflammation and enhance circulation. Both of those abilities make coconut oil an excellent ingredient for under-eye care, because the skin under the eyes is prone to puffiness and dark circles. The skin under the eyes becomes thinner as you age, making the blood vessels more visible, which explains the darkness that you see. Coconut oil works to strengthen the skin barrier, making those blood vessels less prominent. Additionally, coconut oil may help accelerate cell regeneration, leading to a quicker replacement of damaged skin cells with new, healthy ones.

Cucumber

One study found that cucumbers work to soothe the skin and reduce the appearance of swelling. Due to their water content, cucumbers help to replenish dry skin. Some research indicates that cooled cucumbers can help reduce inflammation and offer vasoconstriction to vessels in the eye area. Vasoconstriction helps to drive fluid away from the eye area, which helps reduce the appearance of puffiness and bags.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is highly beneficial for the skin, and is often used around the eyes to help relieve swelling, moisturize dry skin, and relieve redness. It may also help to repair damaged skin and treat sunburned skin. According to research, aloe vera contains nutrients (zinc, magnesium, potassium, and selenium), which offer antioxidant benefits. Antioxidants help repair damaged cells, which works to strengthen the skin and repair damage. Aloe vera also contains enzymes and fatty acids that help reduce inflammation. The amino acids may help reduce puffiness or general redness. Finally, aloe vera offers moisturizing properties that may help reduce irritation and inflammation. 

DIY Cooling Cucumber Face Mask

Ingredients:

• 1 large cucumber, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons unrefined coconut oil
• 1/4 cup aloe vera gel
• 8 drops carrot seed essential oil (optional)

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients to a blender and blend until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. 
• Transfer the mixture to an ice cube tray (preferably made of silicone for easy removal) and place in the freezer until frozen. 
• When ready, pop out one cube, apply to the eye area, and leave on for 10-15 minutes. If you added carrot seed essential oil to the face mask, make sure not to get it in your eyes, otherwise they will burn.
• Rinse with lukewarm water and pat your face gently to dry.

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Dermatologists agree that dry scalp occurs when the scalp cannot produce or hold enough moisture. Just as is common for other forms of dry skin, dry scalp can cause irritation, flaking, and itching. It can also cause your hair to look dry, given that oil from the scalp helps condition the hair. 

People with dry skin tend to have an increased risk of dry scalp, meaning many of the things that cause dry skin also cause dry scalp. Such causes include excessive washing, dry air, and inflammatory skin conditions like eczema. Thankfully, there are many easy and effective ways to moisturize the scalp. Below, you’ll find the best tips to help keep your scalp moisturized and healthy.

Apply A Hair Oil Or Serum

If dandruff is not the primary cause of dry scalp, then you may have success using scalp serums or oils that provide moisture. Replenish your scalp’s moisture with one of those products at the start of your day. Before you apply the serum or oil, wet your hair first because you don’t want your strands to pick up the majority of the product. In fact, beauty experts recommend using a cotton swab to apply it to the scalp. Serums, instead of oils, may reduce the risk of clogged hair follicles, which can cause other issues. 

Avoid Shampoos With Sulfates

If you care about your hair, scalp, and skin, you will do your best to avoid skin and hair care products that contain sulfates. Some shampoos can strip the scalp of its natural oils, leaving it irritated and dry. Shampoos that do not contain sulfates are usually much gentler on your hair and scalp. If you have mild dandruff, consider cleaning daily with a gentle shampoo. If that doesn’t fix the issue, you may require a medicated dandruff shampoo. You may even need to experiment with more than a single shampoo or hair care product to address the issue. 

Cut Back On The Number Of Products You Use

Instead of adding more products to your hair and scalp care routine, you may need to take a step back and leave some out. If you use a wide variety of products, try to simplify your hair care routine. Eliminate harsh ingredients and chemicals, opting for a more natural and streamline approach instead. Too many products can mess with the pH balance of the scalp and create additional issues that you don’t want. 

Incorporate A Scalp Scrub

A scalp scrub may not seem like the correct choice if your scalp is dry, but your scalp may need it in certain instances. Much like exfoliating your skin, scrubbing your scalp can help to remove dead skin cells and excess build-up. That process can make it easier for oils and serums to penetrate deeper into the skin for optimal hydration. Scalp scrubs also help free up hair follicles for better growth. 

Exfoliate Your Scalp Every One To Two Weeks

Although a scalp scrub can aid exfoliation, you may not require one to address your situation. Another thing to note is that you do not want to over-exfoliate, and avoid exfoliation if you have eczema or psoriasis. A scalp massage brush may dilate blood vessels under the skin, which may encourage hair growth. If you use a scalp scrub during a massage with this brush, you may help slough away dead skin cells, oils, and anything else clogging your hair follicles. 

Try Scalp Oiling

If you regularly massage oil into your scalp, you may help address dryness or build-up. Scalp oiling is especially beneficial for dehydrated hair follicles, and it preps the hair for styling. If you have dandruff, however, avoid scalp oiling. This is a process that you should only do if your scalp is in need of more moisture because it helps boost circulation and decongests the scalp. 

Visit A Head Spa

Depending on where you live, a head spa may not be accessible to you. A head spa basically offers treatments that address things concerning your scalp. Think of it like giving your scalp a facial! These places stem from the Japanese practice, where scalp-centric services are offered at many salons. A visit to a head spa can be beneficial, but may only provide temporary relief if your scalp concerns are more serious.

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Whether you follow TikTok beauty trends or get lured into buying commercial beauty products, skin care is an ever-evolving field. There are no breakthroughs, tips, and hacks about how to best care for the body’s largest organ. With so many options to choose from, how do you know which skin care products are right for you? That can be very difficult, considering that each product has a handful of ingredients, some of which may do more harm than good.

Because more people are aware of the negative effects of commercial beauty products, DIY skin care products are more popular than ever. Simple ingredients, many of which have been used for centuries, can help address common skin issues. In case you need more proof, the following five natural skin care ingredients have loads of research to back up their efficacy. Continue reading to learn more about them. 

Green Tea For Inflammation And Aging

Green tea is replete with polyphenols, offering a shocking 30% polyphenol antioxidant count by weight. Researchers state that the most notable antioxidant is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which exhibits powerful anti-inflammatory properties. According to several studies, topical application of polyphenols can help repair sun-damaged skin. Some research even indicated that this topical application may reverse the signs of aging, such as reducing the appearance of dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles.

Oat Extracts For Sensitive Skin

Some beauty experts consider oats, or oat extracts, to be the gold standard for sensitive skin. Both colloidal oatmeal and oat oil are beloved by estheticians for their ability to soothe sensitive skin. For example, colloidal oatmeal has a high lipid and antioxidant content, which helps protect the skin barrier. Colloidal oatmeal has many active nutrients, including vitamin E, ferric acid, and avenanthramides, which exhibit powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Many dermatologists recommend colloidal oatmeal for the treatment of eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions. 

Coconut Oil For Dry Skin

Soothing dryness should not be your only reason for using coconut oil topically on the skin. Coconut oil contains natural fatty acids that help nourish and smooth out the skin. The reason coconut oil is particularly beneficial for dry skin is because it helps increase moisture levels in the skin, due to its occlusive properties. It also helps to improve skin barrier function, which is why people with eczema or psoriasis find coconut oil so soothing. 

Aloe Vera For Dullness

You are probably most familiar with aloe vera for its ability to soothe sunburns and accelerate the healing from burns or mild scrapes. It has been a staple in natural skin care for centuries because of its medicinal properties. Researchers found that aloe vera contains more than 75 (and potentially up to 200) different active compounds, such as sugars, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes, and salicylic acids. Aloe vera is excellent for hydrating the skin because it is a natural humectant, meaning it attracts moisture to the skin. 

Researchers note that aloe vera has proven to increase the water content of the stratum corneum, the skin’s outermost layer. But wait, there’s more! Aloe vera may help brighten the skin, due to its content of aloesin. One study found that it helped treat UV-induced and post-acne hyperpigmentation. Topical application of aloesin may directly inhibit hyper pigmented skin from producing more melanin, which can cause the formation of dark spots. 

Jojoba Oil For Oil Control

The chemical structure of jojoba oil is very similar to human cells, making it a popular ingredient in skin care products. Jojoba oil may help reduce oiliness by modulating the skin’s production of sebum. Because of the iodine content, jojoba oil also works to balance bacterial overgrowth, which can lead to breakouts. Finally, jojoba oil is rich in skin-soothing ingredients, such as vitamin E, copper, B-complex vitamins, and zinc, which give the oil anti-inflammatory properties.

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