November is National Healthy Skin Month and it’s the perfect time of the year to take a moment to reevaluate your skincare routine. Winter weather and drying indoor heat can cause anyone to have a bad skin day. What works in the spring and summer may not work now that we are leaving behind all that gorgeous sunshine. So, I am here to help you start the season off right with three all natural DIY skin products.
- Bentonite and Turmeric Facial Mask
Women all over the world have trusted these two ingredients for radiant skin for centuries. Bentonite clay is basically ground volcanic ash. It sounds exotic, but it is readily available in places like Walmart or Amazon for a low price. And one jar will last you a long time. If you google it you will find that people claim this wonder clay to heal a variety of aliments, but let’s focus on the skin for now. It is rich in minerals that promote healthy skin as well as drawing out toxins and impurities. The second ingredient, Turmeric, is a great compliment to the clay. Yes, it’s that same yellow powder in your spiced rack and it works magic in its own way. Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and collagen booster.
Try this recipe 1-3 times a week:
¼ teaspoon of Tumeric (local grocery store)
2 teaspoons of clay (Amazon, Walmart)
1-2 teaspoons or water or apple cider vinegar
Mix and apply to the skin. Let the mask set up to 15 minutes and rinse off. Everyone has different skin and more sensitive skin types may find that a few min is more than enough.
Hacks: I like to use a foundation brush to apply the mask.
Metal deactivates the clay so use a wooden or plastic spoon
Add in ¼ teaspoon ground mineral salt for anti-inflammatory properties to treat acne (ground mineral salt contains sulfur and the smell is a bit stinky but it works wonders. Locally, you can get this in the bulk salt section at Market District for just a few bucks.)
- Mint and Basil Facial Toner
For a refreshed face this is an easy recipe to have on hand. Mint and Basil are easy to find and work wonders for you skin. Mint has naturally occurring salicylic acid that helps soothes and acne flare ups and smooth out wrinkles. Basil on the other hand is great at reducing excess oil and unclogging pores. And the best part about this is that you probably already have the ingredients at home.
Try this after your routine face wash:
Boil 2 tablespoons of fresh, crushed mint leaves and 2 tablespoon of fresh, crushed Basil in 2 cups of water. Cool and strain in to your preferred container. Add ¼ cup of Witch Hazel. Shake Well. You can apply with a cotton ball after your face has been washed and dried.
- Aloe Facial Moisturizer
This is one of the item that women spend the most money on at the beauty counter. Wouldn’t it be great to make your own and save a few dollars. This is also a very simple and quick recipe. Aloe is nature’s moisturizer. It heals and rejuvenates the skin. And when you combine it with skin quenching oils you get a winning combination. One of the best kin oils is sweet almond oil. It is rich in anti-oxidants such a vitamin A and E, which combat acne and wrinkles.
Try this after using your Mint and Basil Toner:
Mix equal parts:
- Aloe Gel (Amazon, Whole Foods)
- Sweet Almond Oil (Amazon, local grocery store)
Store in an air tight container. Apply with fingertips to the face. If you want added benefits you can add a few drops of rose hip oil or dive into the world of essential oils and their many benefits.
I have three daughters and we go through a ton of health and hygiene products. Switching to natural homemade options has been a lifesaver. We use these recipes on a daily basis. My oldest daughter loves the mask and brags about the glow her skin has. Another bonus is we hardly ever run out, we just go to the kitchen and make more. Between this and switching to cloth pads we probably save almost $80 a month. WOOOOHOOOO. So, for that reason alone I think it is worth a try. Try Natural, Glow and Be Merry!
