When you were a child, do you remember your mother slathering your legs with pink calamine lotion to relieve bug bites? Perhaps you played outside by a pond or lake, or just amongst nature and mosquitos got you good. Those bites were itchy, no doubt! After a soothing bath, it was time to later on that pink calamine lotion. 

What Is Calamine Lotion?

Calamine lotion is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication that is meant to soothe mild itchiness (pruritus). It has demonstrated an ability to soothe redness, discomfort, pain, and itchiness associated with chickenpox, bug bites, and poison ivy. You can also use calamine lotion to help dry out oozing skin irritations. Calamine lotion is only for topical use, so please do not swallow it, as it can be very dangerous. 

What Is Calamine Lotion Used For?

The primary benefit of calamine lotion is that it relieves itchiness. Poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, and other poisonous plants can cause skin irritation and rash. Applying calamine lotion to relieve the itch from these poisonous plants, in addition to other discomforts, can soothe the skin and aid recovery. You can also calamine lotion to help relieve the following:

• Heat rash: A heat rash is an area of the skin that becomes irritated when sweat gets trapped in your pores and ducts under the skin. Calamine may help relieve the burning or itchiness. 
• Chickenpox: You may be able to relieve the itchiness and other symptoms of this infectious condition by applying calamine lotion. The lotion may also prevent you from developing additional skin conditions. 
• Swimmer’s itch: Calamine lotion may help get rid of rashes like swimmer’s itch, which you can develop if you swim in water that contains certain parasites. 
• Scabies: A small mite can cause scabies, which can cause a rash and intense itching. In order to ease the itching from scabies, try to apply calamine lotion to relieve symptoms. Unfortunately, it will not kill the mites. 
• Shingles: In addition to antiviral medications, you may be able to use calamine lotion to help relieve shingles. Apply the lotion directly to the skin in order to get some relief.
• Acne: Unfortunately, calamine lotion will not cure acne, but it may help dry out a pimple, making it a potential spot treatment. 
• Chigger bites: Chiggers are mites that feed on human skin and their bites cause intense irritation and scratching. Apply the calamine lotion to help relieve itching, but it will not kill the mites.

Homemade Calamine Lotion

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons bentonite clay
• 1 tablespoon pink kaolin clay
• 1 tablespoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 cup water
• 10 drops lavender essential oil
• 1/2 teaspoon glycerin

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients to a glass bowl and whisk with a silicone whisk or wooden spoon. Don’t use anything metal or it will affect bentonite clay’s health properties. 
• Once you have thoroughly mixed the ingredients, transfer the mixture to a clean jar and screw on the lid. 
• Store in the refrigerator and use within two weeks. Apply liberally as needed for sunburns, poison ivy, or itchy bug bites. 

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You might be thinking, “Isn’t castor oil known for its laxative properties?” You’re not wrong, but castor oil has had numerous uses for thousands of years. In Ancient Egypt, for example, castor oil was used to treat eye irritation and induce labor in pregnancy. Nowadays, you can commonly see castor oil in skin and hair care applications, particularly because it has incredibly moisturizing properties. 

What Is Castor Oil?

Extracted from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, castor oil is a vegetable oil that must go through processing for safe usage. The reason for that is because the seeds, castor beans, contain high levels of ricin, which is a toxic enzyme. Ricin is removed during processing, making it safe for people to use. Nowadays, castor oil is a common ingredient in many lotions, makeup products, and cleansers as a humectant, hydrating agent, and moisturizer. Continue reading to learn how using castor oil benefits facial skin. 

May Reduce Fungal Infection

In a 2013 study, researchers aimed to determine the antimicrobial activity of different natural extracts against Candida albicans and Enterococcus faecalic in root canals. The results indicated that castor oil was able to significantly reduce the number of CFU of the tested bacteria. Candida albicans is the fungus that can cause nail fungus, athlete’s foot, diaper rash, and jock itch. 

May Soothe Sunburn

According to anecdotal evidence, the moisturizing properties of castor oil may soothe the irritation and pain of a sunburn. Researchers believe that the anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil are responsible for this ability. 

Exhibits Moisturizing Qualities

Castor oil is rich in fatty acids, which work to keep your skin healthy and hydrated. It acts as a humectant, creating a barrier on the surface of dry skin to help lock in moisture. In doing so, castor oil can help prevent moisture from evaporating from the skin. Skin and hair care manufacturers add castor oil to beauty products for this reason. It’s also added to these products as an emollient to promote hydration. Because castor oil is thick, you may want to dilute it in a carrier oil, such as sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, or coconut oil, prior to applying it to the face. 

Can Help Soothe Inflamed Skin

One study found that the analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties in castor oil helped reduce inflammation in mice. Researchers observed similar effects in guinea pigs. Although gels containing ricinoleic acid can reduce inflammation, more human studies are needed to fully understand the scope of castor oil’s ability to soothe inflammation.

May Exhibit Antibacterial Properties

According to scientific studies, castor oil contains analgesic, antihistamine, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. A study from 2016 aimed to determine if castor oil exhibited antibacterial activity. Study authors noted that the protein from castor seeds contained antibacterial and anti-proliferative properties, inhibiting the growth of S. aureus, which causes acne. 

How To Use Castor Oil

As mentioned earlier, you can incorporate castor oil in various creams, lotions, or oil combinations. Because it is thick, you may want to dilute it with a carrier oil before applying it on your face. Alternatively, you can dip a cotton ball in castor oil and gently dab it on the face and neck. In circular motions, gently massage the areas of application for three to five minutes before washing your face with a mild cleanser. 

Risk Factors Of Castor Oil Use On The Face

When testing any new oil on the skin, you run the risk of irritation. One study found that undiluted castor oil caused severe irritation on rabbit skin, while only causing mild irritation on rat and guinea pig skin. In human trials, castor oil wasn’t found as a skin irritant. That said, people with sensitive skin or occupational dermatoses (a form or skin inflammation) may experience skin irritation. Castor oil may also cause eye irritation and discomfort if it gets in your eye, so be careful when using castor oil on the face. A few tips to follow include:

• Always do a patch test: This rule applies to any new oil or skin care product you have concerns about. Test a small amount of the oil on your hand or arm and allow it to sit for 24 hours to see if you have a reaction.
• Check the label: The preservatives in castor oil may cause irritation. Always read the label to check the ingredients, as not all oils are created equal. Choose oils that are cold-pressed organic without any additives.

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Bergamot, which you may know if you dabble in essential oils or drink Earl Grey tea, is a citrus fruit primarily found in the Calabria region of Southern Italy. That area of Italy has a long tradition of using bergamot in folk medicine to treat fevers and infections. In recent years, researchers have examined bergamot’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which indicate that it may help lower total cholesterol levels. 

Can Bergamot Improve Cholesterol?

According to clinical trials that involved oral administration of bergamot, it may help reduce total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (the bad one). Other lab studies indicate that bergamot’s polyphenols may influence enzymes that relate to cholesterol metabolism. In fact, a systematic review of 12 studies found that supplementing with bergamot demonstrated the following:

• LDL cholesterol decrease: ranging from 7.6% to 40.8%
• Triglyceride decrease: ranging from 11.5% to 39.5%
• Total cholesterol decrease: ranging from 12.3% to 31.3%

An additional eight trials found that bergamot was able to increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (good cholesterol). The studies revealed a potential dose-dependent effect and synergy with statins. That means that bergamot could be an alternative for dyslipidemia, especially in statin-intolerant people. In fact, one study found that bergamot fruit extract reduced overall cholesterol levels in liver cells. Although it didn’t block the enzyme involved with making cholesterol, it did limit cholesterol absorption in intestinal cells. 

How Long Does It Take For Bergamot To Lower Cholesterol?

There is one component in bergamot fruit extract, neohesperidin, which studies found decreased the activity of the enzyme responsible for cholesterol production. Additionally, neohesperidin boosted the function of another enzyme related to cholesterol management. Clinical studies suggest that cholesterol levels may reduce after weeks of regular bergamot supplementation. The effects may last one to six months, depending on lifestyle factors and personal biology. The time it takes for bergamot to work its magic may vary among individuals, and you should consult your healthcare professional about supplementation if you suffer from high cholesterol.

How Much Bergamot Is Necessary?

Determining how much bergamot to take to manage cholesterol levels will depend on a few things. The form of bergamot, such as extract, oil, supplement, the concentration of bergamot, and the individual’s overall health, including underlying conditions. In studies, typical doses ranged from 150 milligrams (mg) to 1,500 mg of extract daily. Unfortunately, the best form of bergamot for managing cholesterol is still unclear. Different forms of the fruit, including extracts, juices, or supplements are the available forms, at least in the clinical studies confirming their efficacy. 

Are There Side Effects?

In certain cases, bergamot may cause side effects, which are detailed below: 

• Drug interactions: Antibiotics and diabetes medications, in addition to drugs that cause photosensitivity, may negatively interact with bergamot. As stated earlier in this article, some studies suggest that bergamot extract may enhance statin effects. Combining bergamot with other medications, however, could intensify their effects and increase the risk of muscle pain. 
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight: Bergamot contains compounds that may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, increasing your risk of skin irritation or sunburn. 
• Allergic reactions: Some people are allergic to bergamot, which can result in rash, itching, or difficulty breathing, but this depends on the severity of the allergy. If you are allergic to other citrus fruits, you may want to reconsider bergamot supplementation, or get a food allergy test.

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Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic, people have upgraded their hand soap game. There are so many soaps on the markets, and the truth is that many of them are filled with harmful chemicals that are difficult to pronounce. Are there non-toxic hand soaps in stores? Some brands use reputable ingredients, but they may also use fragrances or other substances that can disrupt the skin barrier. 

Unlike making body butters, lip balms, or bath bombs, making your own non-toxic soap is a very simple process. When you go to purchase ingredients for the soap, you will also need to acquire a soap dispenser. You can either purchase a foaming soap dispenser, or any old hand soap dispenser. If your old hand soap is running out, give it a good rinse, let it dry, and use that for this DIY hand soap. 

Castile Soap

Is castile strong enough to kill germs? The short answer is: no, but it is still effective. Rather than killing bacteria, castile soap, which is a surfactant, removes germs and bacteria (like dirt and grease) with the aid of running water. That makes castile soap an excellent ingredient for cleaning your hands. Liquid castile soap, such as Dr. Bronner’s, is free of synthetic ingredients or foaming agents. It is a blend of ethically sourced carrier oils and aromatic essential oils.

Dermatologists like to say that castile soap speaks the language of the skin. That means that it incorporates three essential moisturizing components: humectants, emollients, and occlusives, all of which benefit the skin. 

Humectants

Humectants are substances that attract water from the air or from deeper layers of the skin. Coming in naturally derived, unchanged, or synthetic forms, humectants bind with water and break down dead skin cells. They typically break down those skin cells first, making it so your pores remain unclogged. Once humectants loosen dead skin cells, they draw moisture from the air or deeper layers of the skin. 

Emollients

Emollients are ingredients in skin care products that help to relieve dryness or skin irritation. Skin care experts refer to emollients as skin barrier creams because they help form a protective film on the skin’s outer. Dermatologists usually recommend emollients for skin conditions that cause dryness, for example, eczema and psoriasis. Emollients attract moisture to the skin, help prevent moisture loss in the skin, and work to soften peeling or scaling skin. An emollient differs from a moisturizer because it works to soften the skin, whereas a moisturizer contains other ingredients that bring water into the skin.

Occlusives

Occlusives are moisturizing agents that help form a protective barrier on the skin’s surface. Typically, they are waxy or oily and almost act like plastic wrap for the skin. What we mean by this is that plastic wrap forms a barrier between food and the outside environment. Similarly, occlusives aim to prevent harmful pathogens or particles from entering the skin, while keeping the skin moist at the same time. They help protect against dehydration, infection, and environmental damage, making them a great addition to any skin care regimen. 

DIY Non-Toxic Hand Soap

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup filtered water
• 1/4 cup liquid castile soap
• 20 drops lemon essential oil
• Soap dispenser

Instructions:

• Pour the water into the soap dispenser, followed by the liquid castile soap. 
• Add 20 drops of lemon essential oil, which works to remove odors and provides a refreshing aroma. 
• Screw the top on the soap dispenser, shake well, and use when ready.

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It can be difficult to keep track of so many different creams, treatments, masks, salves, and more on the beauty market. Wouldn’t it be nice if you just had a cream that could moisturize the skin, nourish the hair, and even remove makeup? That’s why you are in need of your own Egyptian Magic Cream, which offers multiple beauty benefits in one DIY balm. 

The original Egyptian Magic Cream was released in 1991, and it’s been rumored to be the best-kept beauty secret for celebrities. It is 100% natural and may help you unlock more beautiful, healthy skin and hair. Unlike most beauty products, Egyptian Magic Cream is free of additives, parabens, chemicals, preservatives, and fragrances. It contains olive oil, beeswax, honey, bee pollen, royal jelly, bee propolis, and divine love. What are these things and how can they help you? We aim to highlight some of those ingredients before providing you with your own recipe. 

Olive Oil

Commonly used in culinary applications, olive oil has many health properties, but it also exhibits beauty benefits. The high concentration of antioxidants helps to fight free radicals on the skin, which helps protect against early signs of aging. Olive oil also contains vitamins A, D, E, and K, and compounds like oleocanthal and squalene, all of which may help repair skin damage. Olive oil is hypoallergenic, antimicrobial, and non-toxic, making it an excellent carrier oil for topical use. 

Beeswax

Beeswax works to soften the skin and enhance skin elasticity, both of which help reduce the signs of aging. According to studies, beeswax exhibits antibacterial, antioxidant, germicidal, and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties make beeswax a highly stable base ingredient, which extends the product’s life. If you have sensitive skin, beeswax is an excellent choice because it will unlikely cause skin irritation. 

Bee Propolis

Propolis is widely used in medicine because it exhibits antiseptic properties. In fact, propolis is used in dermatology to treat streptococcal, staphylococcal, and fungal infections. It is highly effective in the treatment of skin burns and it has comparable therapeutic effects to certain over-the-counter burn creams. Propolis also stimulates glycosaminoglycan accumulation, which is necessary tissue growth and wound closure. 

Royal Jelly

With a broad spectrum of biological activities, royal jelly has positive effects on the skin. Studies have shown that royal jelly exhibits antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-aging properties. The anti-inflammatory activity may help accelerate wound healing and reduce inflammation. Because royal jelly can stimulate metabolism in tissues, it may improve the regenerative processes, which may reduce early signs of aging. 

DIY Magic Cream

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1.5 tablespoons beeswax pastilles
• 1 tablespoon raw honey
• 1/2 tablespoon bee propolis
• 1/2 tablespoon royal jelly
• 1 teaspoon bee pollen powder

Instructions:

• To start, reserve about one to two teaspoons of olive oil and then add the rest to the top of a double boiler. Add the beeswax pastilles to the double boiler as well. 
• Once the beeswax is melted, remove from heat and allow them to cool for about five minutes or so. 
• Pour the olive oil beeswax mixture into a heat-safe glass bowl and mix until it turns into an off-white cream. Make sure to allow the mixture to fully cool before adding the rest of the ingredients, as heat can destroy the enzymes in honey. 
• In a separate bowl, whisk the honey, bee propolis, royal jelly, bee pollen powder, and the reserved teaspoons of olive oil. Make sure to whisk well to fully mix the ingredients together. 
• Add the honey mixture to the olive oil mixture and whisk to combine. You can do this by hand because it doesn’t need to fluff up like body butter. 
• Spoon the mixture into glass jars or metal tins and let the mixture harden completely before storing in a cool, dark place.

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Lathering a fluffy body butter on your body is such a treat, especially after a relaxing bath. The ingredients, especially from homemade recipes, are easily absorbed into the skin. And with a two-ingredient recipe, like the one in this article, you don’t have to worry about other preservatives, endocrine disruptors, or any of that nonsense. 

Now, we’ve published our fair share of body butter recipes, and most of them tend to have coconut oil. Although coconut oil is a moisturizing ingredient, it does not always agree with everyone’s skin. In fact, people with oily or sensitive skin can sometimes develop acne after applying coconut oil to the skin. The reason for this is because it has a high comedogenic rating, meaning that it can clog pores and cause skin irritation. That said, it is a miracle oil for the skin and many people love to use it. 

From start to finish, this recipe takes about one and a half hours to make, including one hour of freezing/waiting time. It yields approximately 12 ounces of homemade body butter, and you can learn about the two ingredients below. 

Sunflower Oil

Sunflower oil is made from pressing sunflower seeds, typically through the use of chemical solvents or cold-pressed. When you purchase sunflower oil, do your best to look for organic cold-pressed sunflower oil. Sunflower oil is naturally rich in vitamin E, a protective antioxidant that can help protect the skin from environmental factors that age the skin prematurely. Additionally, sunflower oil contains protective antioxidants, including vitamins A, C, D, and K. These antioxidants can help the skin retain moisture, which can minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Unlike coconut oil, sunflower oil is non-comedogenic, so you don’t have to worry about it clogging your pores. In fact, sunflower oil may decongest pores by clearing them of dead skin cells. 

Shea Butter

Shea butter comes from the kernels of shea trees, which are native to sub-Saharan Africa. Parts of the tree are famous for their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, and have been known to relieve nasal congestion and skin issues. Shea butter is a common ingredient in many beauty products, especially face moisturizers and body lotions. It acts as an emollient that softens and hydrates the skin. The fatty acids, including oleic, palmitic, stearic, and linoleic acids, work to protect the skin from environmental pollutants. Research states that shea butter’s anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe irritated skin. It may help to fight breakouts, especially for people with dry skin. Dry skin is acne-prone because it overproduces sebum, which can clog pores. Shea butter stops this cycle and helps prevent skin from drying out. 

Homemade Body Butter

Ingredients:

• 2/3 cup raw unrefined shea butter
• 1/3 cup organic cold-pressed sunflower oil

Instructions:

• Pour a couple inches of water into the bottom of a double boiler and place that over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to medium-low. 
• Place the top on and add the shea butter and sunflower oil to the top. Stir gently until fully melted and then remove from heat. 
• Pour the melted oil mixture into a heat-safe glass measuring cup and place that in the freezer for one hour so that it can harden. 
• Remove from the freezer and use an electric hand mixer to whip the frozen mixture until it turns into a fluffy whipped body butter. It may take about 10 minutes to achieve this texture. 
• Spoon the body butter without coconut into clean containers and lather on your body when ready to use.

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Did you know that about 70% of women wear a bra size that is too small for them? It may not seem like a big deal, but an ill-fitting bra can increase chest or rib pain, general discomfort, irritated skin, or completely restrict certain movements. The goal is to be comfortable, but bras, along with tight jeans, may not always make the list of comfortable clothing items. If taking off your bra has become the highlight of your day, you’re probably wearing the wrong bra size. 

Women who get into the habit of wearing the wrong bra size commonly experience similar symptoms. Underwire may poke at your chest, straps may dig into your shoulders, and the band may cause rib pain. While these are not life-threatening symptoms, they can lead to other symptoms that include headaches, backaches, or even shortness of breath. All of those symptoms can make any woman want to unlock her bra strap immediately.

Wearing a bra that fits correctly can be a life-changing experience. A well-fitting bra will allow for maximum mobility and optimal bodily functions. In fact, many chiropractors say that ill-fitting bras increase the need for regular adjustments to realign the spine. Ideally, the band should rest at the bottom of your shoulder blades and all of your breast tissue should fit in the cup. That means no spillage out of the top or the bottom. Once you find the perfect bra, which can be a challenge, you may spare yourself from the following symptoms. 

Upper Body Pain

One of the most common bra-related issues is that the cup is too small and the band is too loose. An unsupportive and uncomfortable bra can increase the risk of shoulder and back pain. To compensate for a loose band, many women tighten the straps too much, which strains the shoulders. Listen up, ladies, shoulder indentions are not normal and your bra shouldn’t cause shoulder pain. Relying on the straps for support is a mistake because you really want support from the band. 

Chafing

Chafing is a common issue with different types of bras, but many women report the most chafing after wearing sports bras. Movement causes friction between the skin and fabric, and a bra that’s too tight can rub the skin in an uncomfortable way. Tight clothing often increases irritation and the inflammation of hair follicles, according to dermatologists. Regular irritation makes it easier for bacteria on the skin to penetrate hair follicles, which causes infection. If your bra is the right fit and you still experience chafing or irritation, consider a bra with a wider band.

Over-Spillage

If there’s more boob out of the bra than in the bra, one thing is crystal clear: it’s too small for you. There’s no reason that your breasts should not fit snuggly within the cups, nor should the underwire should sit on the breasts. You may need to move up to a cup size that offers more support, less movement, and a smoother look under your clothes. A fitted underwire should trace the root of your breasts and lie flat on the ribcage. No woman wants the quad-boob look!

The Band Squeezes Your Back

There’s no reason that the band should squeeze the life out of your back. This could mean that your band is either too tight or too high up on your back. Since the band is where support comes from, it’s integral to choose the right style and size. Tighter does not equate to a better bra; rather, it typically means that you need a more supportive style with a thicker band. 

Regular Adjusting

You know that there’s a problem with your bra if you pull, tug, and constantly readjust it throughout the day. There are a few reasons that call for regular adjustments. It’s very possible that the style is wrong, but the cups may be too small or too big. Lastly, the band may be too big. If a bra shifts with every movement you make, it’s time to find a bra that fits in order to address these issues. 

Pain Under Your Breasts

If you ever experience a line under your boobs, especially if it’s red or itchy, then something may be up with the underwire. Older bras that have worn fabric that exposes the underwire should be thrown out. The skin under the breasts is very sensitive and should not be directly exposed to wire. If this is not the case, the underwire may not properly fit the chest and is moving around too much. This causes friction and irritation, two things no woman should experience while wearing a bra.

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Skin conditions are uncomfortable for numerous reasons. They can make you self-conscious about your appearance and they can be irritating or seemingly uncontrollable. Both eczema and psoriasis are two common skin conditions that result in flaky, itchy, inflamed skin. Constant itching can make you feel embarrassed and leave you feeling helpless. That’s where this homemade neem balm comes into play.

What Is Neem Oil?

People in the natural beauty world rave about the benefits of neem oil. Neem oil is derived from the neem tree, which his native to India, and the oil contains powerful antioxidant, antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Commonly used in Ayurvedic remedies, neem oil is now used in cosmetic products, including body lotions, hair products, and skin creams.

Helps Prevent Acne

Ayurveda used neem oil to help clear up the skin because of the inherent antibacterial properties. If your acne is caused by bacterial build-up, neem oil can help by killing the bacteria that clog pores and create blemishes. A 2013 in vitro study found that neem oil could be a prolonged treatment for acne. Neem oil also works to moisturize the skin, so it prevents dead skin flakes from clogging the pores.

It May Reduce Signs Of Aging

Neem oil contains powerful antioxidants and fatty acids, which help slow the early signs of aging. Oleic and linoleic acid, both of which are present in neem oil, help to penetrate the skin and encourage cell health. This helps to keep the skin looking young and supple. When applied to the skin, neem oil helps create a moisturizing barrier that prevents skin from losing moisture, which helps prevent wrinkles and dryness.

It Soothes Itching And Irritation

Unfortunately, neem oil is not a cure for eczema or psoriasis, but it can help manage symptoms and the severity of outbreaks. Dermatologists typically recommend emollients for eczema because they fill gaps or cracks in the skin, preventing loss of moisture. Neem is rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, which penetrate the outer layers of the skin, filling in those gaps and cracks. The antiseptic properties also help keep bacteria out, reducing irritation or severity of outbreaks.

Note: Before using this all over your skin (especially around the face or scalp), do a patch test on your arm. If you don’t see a reaction after 24 hours, which includes redness or swelling, you should be safe to use it on other areas of the body. Neem is incredibly potent so use lightly.

DIY Neem Balm For Eczema

Ingredients:

• 40 grams Shea butter
• 30 grams cocoa butter
• 20 grams castor oil
• 30 grams sweet almond oil
• 10 grams neem oil
• ¼ teaspoon vitamin E oil

Instructions:

• Add the Shea butter, cocoa butter, castor oil, and sweet almond oil to the top of a double boiler. Alternatively, you can combine them in a heat-safe glass bowl/jar that sits in a saucepan with an inch of water over medium-low heat.
• Once the oils melt, stir well and remove from heat. Pour the oils into a heat-safe bowl/jar and place it in the freezer for five minutes, or until oils thicken.
• Remove the bowl from the freezer and whisk in the neem oil and vitamin E oil.
• Spoon the mixture into a container with a lid and let it settle for a couple hours before using it. Use once or twice a day on the affected area(s), but don’t forget to patch test first.

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It’s no secret that face masks help to slow the spread of coronavirus. In conjunction with social distancing, face masks can prevent asymptomatic carriers from infecting at-risk people, according to Mayo Clinic and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). How long will people have to wear these face masks though? Some health experts suggest that people should wear them for the next year and a half.

While face masks can help keep you and others around you safe, the increased friction, heat, and humidity can cause irritation. According to Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, fabric that rubs against the skin is a recipe for irritation. People who have to keep face masks on for full workdays are most susceptible to skin irritation, especially if they have underlying skin conditions like rosacea, acne, or dermatitis.

Why Does Skin Irritation Occur?

Cloth face masks have the potential to harbor bacteria and fungi, which is why they need to be washed routinely. Masks constantly rub the skin, and this friction can lead to breakouts or rashes. The sweat, oil, and trapped breath under the mask create a moist environment, which is a recipe for irritation. Additionally, wearing makeup and other lotions can also increase the risk of irritation. To properly clean masks, throw them in the washing machine or hand-wash them with hot water and soap. After the masks dry, health experts recommend ironing them to provide an extra layer of defense against germs.

People are stuck in a bit of a catch-22. Wearing the masks helps protect them from coronavirus infection, but it also increases skin irritation. Not wearing the masks helps the skin breathe and be healthy, but increases the risk of viral transmission. In order to avoid breakouts or irritation, employ the following tips when wearing protective face coverings.

Consider The Fabric

Whether you opt for a bandana, homemade mask (click here for instructions), surgical mask, or a piece of flannel, the fabric you choose can affect the skin. Dermatologists recommend that people should avoid synthetic materials at all costs. It is more beneficial to stick with 100% cotton fabric. Also, keep in mind that breathable fabrics are less efficient at filtering air, so create multiple layers with cotton fabric to protect yourself.

Keep The Skin Clean

If you wash your masks regularly, you should also wash your face. Less is more when it comes to keeping the face cleansed. Harsh exfoliators, strong soaps, and certain toners can irritate the skin. Instead, calm the skin and provide nourishment by using a gentle soap followed by a healthy moisturizer. Finally, skip the foundation and concealer during this time because the increased humidity under the mask can clog the pores and lead to more breakouts. Allow your skin to breathe under the mask as much as possible.

Wash Your Face Before You Put On The Mask

The added pressure on your pores can increase the risk of folliculitis, which is a condition that occurs when hair follicles become infected or inflamed. The common result is red or pus-filled bumps around the hair follicle. Always wash your face before you put on the face mask, so that you start out with a clean environment. This rule applies for people who wear them all day. If you are a man, leave a small amount of stubble to reduce the risk of ingrown hairs.

Use Moisturizer To Create A Skin Barrier

If you want to decrease the amount of friction between your face and the mask, dermatologists advise that people apply moisturizer before you put the mask on. The friction causes the top layer of your skin to release water, which dries it out. You may not notice it at first, but you’ll eventually see dry or cracked skin that can result in redness. Opt for an oil-free moisturizer and apply it once every two hours to dampen the skin. Non-comedogenic products are also beneficial because they don’t clog pores. Since your hands can also dry out as a result of frequent hand washing, you may want to read this article to help keep your hands moisturized.

Finally, we have to reiterate that you should launder your masks on a regular basis.

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Many people have eczema, which is a term that can be used to describe rash-like skin conditions or the primary condition of atopic dermatitis. Roughly 30 million Americans have eczema, which commonly starts during infancy and continues into childhood. Sometimes people grow out of the condition, but some people have it into adulthood. Eczema is the inflammation of the skin, which often results in red and raised skin, and people with dryer, more sensitive skin often suffer from the condition. Many people will have rashes on their necks, elbows, knees, behind the ears, wrists, ankles, or other areas that bend.

To spread awareness about National Eczema Week, we are striving to make people more aware of the causes, symptoms, and natural remedies for eczema. Strive to use home remedies to naturally improve the condition. You can do your own research about natural remedies, using this article as a starting point.

What Causes Eczema?

The exact cause for eczema is unknown, but the common belief is that it is caused by either hereditary or environmental factors. If a parent has eczema, there is a greater possibility that the child will develop it. On the other hand, research suggests that the cause of eczema is linked to hay fever or asthma. It may also be caused by another allergic disease, or one of the following:

• Irritants (soaps and detergents, disinfectants like chlorine, or contact with juices from fruit, vegetables, or meat)
• Allergens (house dust mites, pollens, pets, mold, or Dandruff)
• Microbes (viruses, certain fungi, or bacteria)
• Temperature (hot weather, high or low humidity, or sweat)
• Food (dairy products, wheat, soy products, nuts or seeds, and eggs)
• Stress
• Hormones

Natural Remedies

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a great natural solution that can be ingested or applied directly on the skin. If you mix two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar with 8oz of water and consume that twice a day, this can help to restore your body’s pH balance, which is sometimes all that is needed to help eczema. For topical use, mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and distilled water and spray this on the affected area several times a day. You can also add apple cider vinegar to baths if the eczema is larger.

Take An Oatmeal Bath

An oatmeal bath can help reduce skin irritation because it helps moisturize the skin. Mix one cup of blended oats in a lukewarm bath and soak in it for 15-20 minutes every day until symptoms decrease.

Use Coconut Oil

Since coconut oil is an incredible moisturizer and has antimicrobial properties, it can help reduce the symptoms of eczema if applied to the affected area(s). For best results, gently apply warm coconut oil nightly before bed, as this softens the skin and fights bacteria from multiplying. Symptoms may take a few days to reduce.

Aloe Vera

Because aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties, it is commonly used to reduce the symptoms of eczema. Applying the aloe vera to the affected area(s) helps to restore your skin’s pH balance and relieve itching and irritation. Like coconut oil, aloe vera also has moisturizing and antimicrobial properties.

Drink A Lot Of Water

Make sure you stay hydrated! Drinking alkaline water can be beneficial as it helps restore the body’s natural pH balance. The suggested amount of water to drink is eight 8oz glasses per day, but a better measurement is to drink half your bodyweight in ounces of water. If you weight 150lbs and divide that by two to get 75, you should drink 75oz of water each day.

Magnesium Bath

Taking a magnesium bath can sometimes decrease the symptoms of eczema. If the person can tolerate the soak, mix magnesium flakes or Epsom salt into the warm water. You can also add sea salt, a few drops of vanilla extract, and the essential oil(s) of your choice. It helps to deep clean your pores, working to clear your skin of oils and bacteria.

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