Water, as wonderful as it is, does not hydrate our skin. We've had it pushed at us for eons of time, and while water is necessary for internal body parts to function properly, it doesn't do much for the dead cells that make up our skins tissue.
The moisture level in our skin is not determined by internal factors, but rather, external factors. Interesting, right? A cold blowing wind on a winter's day, or the blistering scorch of a summer sun, yes, even dry heat from being cooped up inside with the furnace running all day...all these affect the moisture level in that wonderful, protective, stuff we call skin.
Yesterday, I promised a solution to the dilemma of maintaining beautiful skin. So, here it is!
We can approach this in a couple of different ways. Body & Face Scrubs flood the retail market these days. The only problem I can see in choosing a scrub would be not knowing which one would best suit your personal skin condition. And, yes...it does make a difference. Some of us have what is known as "couperose" skin, a thinning of the skin that exposes broken capillaries and general redness across the nose and cheeks. One should never apply a sugar exfoliant to this type of skin.
For those of us that can tolerate scrubs, I've decided to give you a home-made recipe to use once a week to reveal a glowing skin. Or, you may just want to pick one up at your favorite retailer. Elements Salon is looking into the possibility of carrying few skin care products. We'll keep you updated on any progress.
You can use one of several exfoliants in your scrub. Sugar, Salt, Fennel Seed, baking soda, even coffee grounds. They all will remove dead skin cells by scrubbing them away. Much better than the micro beads we find in many over-the-counter, store-bought scrubs, which never disintegrate. I use sugar. It feels awesome and is the most popular of all natural exfoliants. Choose a small granule sugar, so you won't tear your skin. Actually, dark brown sugar is equally wonderful, as is coconut sugar.
Just remember that scrubs can be abrasive to sensitive skin. If you have acne-inflamed skin, rosacea, excessive redness, or a sunburn, please don't use a scrub on your skin. You could use an enzymatic peel instead. There are no beads, no granules, nothing to irritate your skin further.
You've gotta have oil to mix with the sugar (or whatever exfoliant you've chosen). Ones that work well, are: extra virgin coconut oil (awesome sauce!), sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, avocado oil, grape seed oil, safflower oil, olive oil, and even vegetable oil (even though I don't recommend this last one...too slimy for me).
INSTRUCTIONS: You'll want 1 part oil to 2 parts sugar. In other words, for a single exfoliation, mix 2 Tablespoons sugar, to 1 Tablespoon oil. Stir well, or put in a small container with a lid, and shake it up good. If you use salt instead of sugar, don't be surprised if the salt settles to the bottom.
Now, the fun part!
1. Personalize it by making your own concoction! Add 1 teaspoon of coffee grounds for extra exfoliation
2. If you want your scrub to smell fabulous, add a drop or two of your favorite essential oil!
3. Want your scrub to be more moisturizing? Add a drop or two of honey! Mix well.
4. Refreshing mint! Awesome!!! You may want to blend it a bit first to muddle it up before adding to the mix.
5 Lemon Zest is a natural astringent and toner. Great to use if you have excessive oil in your skin.
6. Did you know that tea leaves are a natural skin brightener? Yup! After you use your tea bags, bust one open and sprinkle some grounds in your scrub.
MEMO: If you have sensitive skin, it's not a good idea to use the essential oils OR the lemon zest!!!
Instructions for Application:
1. Always cleanse your face before applying the scrub. The scrub should be the second part of your skincare routine, and works best on moist skin. Apply in a circular motion all over your face...gently, please. No need to be aggressive, It will work best when treated with a soft touch. You may use a little more diligence on flaky parts of the skin, if you must. Just don't use a lot of pressure.
2. Rinse with a warm wash cloth and splash your face with cool water.
3. Apply your moisturizer immediately while the skin is still a bit damp. The moisturizer will just sit on top of the skin if applied to towel dried skin. We want it to be absorbed into the skin to keep the softness we so much desire.
QUESTIONS? Please post a note in the comment section below and I'll get back to you.
Enjoy your new soft and glowing skin!
