Skin Care

Acne Breakout? 5 Tips To Clear Your Complexion

July 27, 2021 by Sarah Gray

Do you notice an acne breakout every time you look in the mirror? Complexion issues are not only for teenagers. The truth of the matter is that many adults suffer acne as well.

When we have acne, it not only can leave scars on our skin, but it can also cause emotional scars. Feeling self conscious while out in public is common if you suffer with acne breakouts.

Don’t give up hope. There are things you can do to improve your skin and it doesn’t have to be expensive.

Let’s take a look at several tips on how to clear up an acne breakout:

1. Tea Tree Oil

A study of tea tree oil on actinic skin, revealed that when a solution of 5% tea tree oil is used, it is effective to treat mild to moderate acne. The oil aids in killing the bacteria that causes the inflammation and infection of the acne.

To use this method, simply apply tea tree oil to a cotton swab and dab on the acne affected areas. Reapply the oil three times a day, until healed.

2. Zinc Supplements

A study on the intake of zinc supplements shows that it is helpful in the treatment of acne.

This study was to compare the treatment of an acne breakout treated with zinc vs an antibiotic. The antibiotic had more efficiency, but if you wanted to take a natural route, zinc still provided good results.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

If you have oily skin that is prone to breakouts, then using a toner made with apple cider vinegar may be something you want to try.

Be sure you don’t have any open sores or you will feel a sting, but if you are trying to eliminate oil, give it a try.

To make your own apple cider vinegar toner, just follow these simple steps:

Use Apple Cider Vinegar “With The Mother”.
Combine one part vinegar with two parts filtered water.
You can also add in a few drops of essential oils, such as tea tree oil, frankincense, or lavender.
Shake to mix.
Apply to skin with a cotton ball. Do not rinse off with water after application.

4. Baking Soda Mask

Baking soda is a powerful anti inflammatory and works wonders if you are experiencing an acne breakout. It also works as an excellent exfoliant to help remove the buildup of dead skin cells.

To use, simply combine baking soda with filtered water to create a paste. You can spot treat blemishes if you do not have a lot or you may choose to treat your entire face.

To do so, gradually increase the time you leave the baking soda mask on your skin. It may make your skin become a bit sensitive, so test it out for ten minutes or so and gradually work your way up to one hour at a time.

5. Tomatoes

The antioxidant properties and carotene that are found in tomatoes make them a great choice in skin care. Tomatoes work well to relieve inflammation and helps to heal tissue that is damaged by acne.

To use, crush a fresh tomato into a pulp like consistency. Apply it to the face and allow it to sit for fifteen to twenty minutes. Rinse off with lukewarm water and softly dab dry with a towel.

Conclusion

An acne breakout doesn’t have to cost a lot of money and time to treat. The methods above may help you to get your skin balanced and acne free.

For further reading, check out: 4 Natural Ingredients You Can Use At Home For Your Skin and 5 Ways Vitamin E Is Helpful For Skin Health.

Image: Flickr

4 Natural Ingredients You Can Use At Home To Improve Your Skin

July 13, 2021 by Sarah Gray

Natural ingredients you can use at home to improve your skin can be easily found in most pantries.

Despite what you may been lead to believe, great skin doesn’t have to cost a fortune. You can easily give your skin a healthy glow with things you most likely have on hand.

Another bonus to using natural ingredients on your skin, is that you won’t have to worry about your skin absorbing harsh chemicals. Many additives and chemicals are used in the production of commercial skin care products.

Allergic reactions, skin inflammation or irritations are more probable when using commercial products. We can never be sure how our skin will react to certain chemicals.

As an alternative, let’s take a closer look into some natural ingredients to improve your skin:

1. Oatmeal

You may not realize that oatmeal is not just for breakfast. It can also be a healthy part of your weekly skin regimen.

Oatmeal works great when used in facial masks, if you are looking to treat inflamed or dry skin.

2. Cucumbers

This article suggests adding equal parts of oats and water in a blender or food processor, along with a bit of honey. Apply it to the face and gently lather the mixture, to use as a light scrub. This will soothe the skin, as well as remove any buildup of dead skin cells.

If you have excess oil on the skin or acne issues, you may want to try incorporating cucumbers in your skin care routine.

This article reveals that cucumbers have natural ingredients that will actually help remove excess oil from the surface of the skin.

Cucumbers are very hydrating when eaten, as well as when used topically on the skin. Diluted cucumber juice can be used as a skin toner. This will remove any excess makeup and debris left behind after cleansing. It will also help to balance the pH on the surface of the skin.

3. Papaya

There are numerous benefits to using natural papaya on the skin. As stated in this article, papaya is chock full of vitamin C, which is an incredible antioxidant. It also contains high amounts of vitamin A, which acts as an exfoliant.

Papaya is highly moisturizing, which will help to ease dry skin and plum up fine lines and wrinkles. You will also see that papaya is great for lightening dark spots and scars on the skin. Papaya also works very well to help treat acne and inflammation.

To make a papaya face mask, just simply mash the papaya with a fork until smooth and add a little milk. You can also add honey. Mix until smooth and apply to your face. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off with cool water.

4. Eggs

Eggs are one of the amazing natural ingredients to improve your skin. If you are looking to tighten the skin on your face, try using this method.

Simply separate an egg, removing the yolk. Using a fan brush, paint the egg white on your face in an upward motion. Let it sit on the skin until it dries. Once dried, lay a warm towel over your face to loosen the mask. Once soft, gently rinse off with lukewarm water.

Conclusion

As you can see, skin care doesn’t have to break the bank. You can use the natural ingredients in your kitchen to give your skin the youthful glow you have always wanted.

For further reading, check out: Why Your Skin Has Different Summer And Winter Needs and 5 Ways Vitamin E Is Helpful For Skin Health.

Image: Flickr

Non-Abrasive Cleanser For Your Face

June 22, 2021 by Sarah Gray

Using a non-abrasive cleanser, can be a part of a healthy, daily skin care routine.

There is a time and a place for abrasive cleansers, such as scrubs, but you should avoid using them every day. Even the toughest skin can be damaged on the microscopic level, if scrubs are used too often.

Let’s take a look at why you should be using a non-abrasive cleanser:

Abrasive Scrubs Contain Harmful Ingredients

On the contrary, this type of scrub is actually harmful to the skin, as this article suggests. The sharp edges of the nut shells cause micro injuries to the surface of the skin. The skin’s texture will actually become uneven, because the edges of the nut shells are are sharp and jagged.

Many facial scrubs are made with the ground up shells of apricots or walnuts. It is said, that these tiny particles will help to slough off the dry skin cells. It is usually claimed that this type of scrub will leave the skin bright and healthy.

A Non-Abrasive Cleanser Is More Gentle

Since non-abrasive cleansers are more gentle on the skin, you can use them more often, without damage.

Choose a cleanser that is geared towards your skin type. Avoid using a cleanser for oily skin if you have dry skin and vice versa.

Some Scrubs Harm The Environment

Due to the damage that the ground nut shells caused to the skin’s surface, cosmetic companies developed facial scrubs that contain microbeads. The beads in this type of cleanser are much gentler on the skin, but they have built up in the ocean.

This article reveals that in 2017, the United States put a ban on the use of microbeads in personal products, such as facial scrubs. Not all countries have followed suit.

Let’s take a look at how to make your own non-abrasive cleanser for your face:

Coconut Oil Cleanser

Coconut oil is an excellent natural remedy for many things, and it is great to keep on hand to use as a non-abrasive facial cleanser.

To use, simple place a small dollop of coconut oil in your palm and rub your hands together to liquefy it. Gently apply the oil to the face, using a circular massage motion with your fingertips.

Apply a warm, damp towel to the face, sit back and relax until it completely cools. Remove any excess oil by patting your face with a dry, soft washcloth.

Honey and Lemon Cleanser

Combine a tablespoon of honey with juice from a half of a lemon and apply to the face. Let this sit on the skin for around twenty minutes. Gently rinse off with warm water.

This cleanser works as an astringent and contains Vitamin C, which is a great skin brightener.

When Should You Wash Your Face?

This article recommends that you should cleanse your face twice a day, unless you have sensitive skin. Morning and night are the ideal times to wash your face. You want to be sure to remove any oil, dirt or makeup from the skin before going to bed.

Conclusion

Facial scrubs and cleansers each have their place in your skin care regimen. Although, you should never substitute one for the other. Use a non-abrasive facial cleanser before your facial scrub to remove and loosen any buildup of oils or cosmetics.

To further care for your skin, you should always protect it from the harmful ultra violet rays of the sun. To do this, wear a sunscreen of at least 30 SPF when going outdoors and reapply as directed on the label. Also, it is a good idea to wear sunglasses and a wide brimmed hat to protect the skin on your face from the sun.

For further reading, check out: Forehead Wrinkles, Causes & How To Stop Them and Why Your Skin Has Different Summer And Winter Needs.

Image: Flickr

6 Hacks To Wake Up Tired Skin

June 8, 2021 by Sarah Gray

Do you have tired skin? Does it appear lackluster and dull? If so, you are not alone.

Tired skin can and will happen to most of us at one time or another. You may be wondering if there is anything you can do to improve the appearance and condition of your skin. Don’t fear! You don’t have to be stuck with it forever.

Let’s take a closer look on how to brighten and wake up tired skin:

1. Keep Your Body Hydrated

When our body is lacking in fluids, our skin is lacking also. To prevent this, you need to ensure that you are taking in enough water.

In order for the body to be completely hydrated, it is recommended that you drink half of your body weight in ounces, on a daily basis. This will not only plump up dehydrated skin and fine lines, but it will also give you a healthy glow.

Toxins will be flushed out of the body more easily, which will also result in clearer skin.

2. Apply Cold Water

A quick fix to wake up tired skin is to apply cold water to the skin. You can do this by simply splashing the water onto clean skin or by using a soft cloth to gently cleanse the face. Afterwards, lay a cold towel on the face for several minutes.

Doing this, will help brighten tired skin as well as reduce any puffiness around the eye area.

3. Eat A Healthy Diet

If we ingest processed foods that are filled with chemicals and preservatives, it will show on our skin. The same thing holds true for foods that contain large amounts of refined sugar.

Stick to green, leafy vegetables and save the treats for special occasions.

4. Exfoliate

Using a scrub regularly on the skin, will help to remove buildup of cells on the surface. It is difficult for old cells to rejuvenate, if there is a barrier of old, dead skin cells blocking it.

Use scrubs and exfoliants that contain gentle ingredients to loosen debris. Avoid any harsh scrubs that contain ground nut shells. These will create microscopic damage to the skin, due to the sharp edges of the shells.

5. Vitamin C

Ingesting Vitamin C on a regular basis, will help the skin look fresher and brighter. In addition to taking in Vitamin C internally, it is also very beneficial if we use it topically.

This article reveals that applying Vitamin C and products which contain it, will help reduce dark circles, reduce pore size and help heal acne.

6. Moisturize

When we seal in moisture and add the extra hydration that our tired skin needs, there will be a visible improvement. Our face will appear more vibrant, smooth and glowing.

After cleansing the skin, apply a moisturizer that is dedicated to your skin type to achieve the most benefits from the product.

Conclusion

If you have any deep concerns about your tired skin, it is always recommended to consult with your dermatologist. They will be able to refer you to the exact products to be used on your skin and how to treat it on a daily basis.

To keep your skin the healthiest it can be, always wear a sunscreen of at least 30 SPF. This will protect you from the damaging UV rays of the sun. Whenever possible, also wear sunglasses and a large brimmed hat to protect your eyes and face from the sun, as well.

Following the tips above should help you to achieve bright and glowing skin and tired skin will be a thing of the past.

For further reading, check out: Laugh Lines Diminish With The Help Of These 3 Steps and 5 Ways Vitamin E Is Helpful For Skin Health.

Image: Flickr

6 Tips For Shrinking Pores

May 25, 2021 by Sarah Gray

Shrinking pores is a great way to make skin appear smoother and more vibrant.

You may be wondering what is the main purpose of pores and how are they beneficial to the skin. Sebum (skin oil) and sweat flow through the pores, to the surface of the skin. This is where the pores become larger and more visible.

The desire for shrinking pores is common in people who have oily skin. The larger the pores are, the oilier the skin tends to be. Sweat tends to excrete through smaller pores.

According to this article, genetics, exposure to sun and age also affect the size of pores.

Let’s take a look at several tips for shrinking pores:

1. Use A Scrub

If pores are clogged with dead skin cells, makeup residue and sebum, they will appear larger than normal.

Use a gentle scrub 1-2 times a week, depending on skin sensitivity. This will loosen and release the debris, so that pores can shrink and appear smaller.

2. Try A Chemical Peel

This article suggests using a chemical peel to treat large pores.

Dermatologists can provide the peels, but you don’t have to go to a dermatologist. You can visit your local esthetician for a lower strength peel that can help shrink pore size for a much lower cost.

3. Wear A Sunscreen

The ultra violet rays of the sun can wreak havoc on your skin. Not only can it cause skin cancer and damage, but it can also make the pores on the skin larger.

You should always wear a sunscreen of at least 30 SPF whenever you go outdoors for any length of time. For extra protection, you can always wear a brimmed hat and sunglasses.

4. Use A Facial Mask

Try using a clay based facial mask on a regular basis. This will decrease the oil on the skin and help shrink pore size, as well. You will notice that your skin will appear smooth and brighter, making you appear more youthful.

5. Choose Products Wisely

When your large pores are from excess oil production, you should avoid using moisturizers that contain oil. This will make the issue worse and your pores will look even bigger.

On the contrary, facial cleaners that contain oil are helpful for oily skin. The oil in the cleanser actually binds to the oil on the skin’s surface and helps wash it away.

Products with glycolic or lactic acid work well to rid the excess oil from the skin. It also helps to dissolve any debris that has built up inside the pores. This method is like a weaker version of a chemical peel.

6. Remove Makeup

When the pores are clogged with makeup residue, they will expand and appear larger.

By removing your makeup at night when you go to bed, you can prevent this from happening. You will also notice that you will have less breakouts and your skin will appear overall healthier.

Conclusion

By implementing the tips above you will not only be shrinking pores, but you will also be treating your skin. You will notice that your skin will look and feel great!

To take healthy skin one step further, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. It is recommended to drink half of your weight in ounces on a daily basis.

Also incorporate a healthy diet into your lifestyle. Avoid processed and fried foods and eat green, leafy vegetables regularly. It is true that you are what you eat.

For further reading, check out: Why Your Skin Has Different Winter And Summer Needs and Send Your Under Eyes Packing With These 5 Tips.

Image: Flickr

5 Ways Vitamin E Is Helpful For Skin Health

May 11, 2021 by Sarah Gray

Vitamin E is an essential nutrient that can do wonders for the skin. Not only does it have anti aging benefits, but it can help nourish and heal the skin as well.

According to this study, Vitamin E has been used for over fifty years in the area of dermatology. It is derived from soybeans and is a grouping of eight fat soluble compounds.

This article reveals that Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps prevent cancers. The oil found in Vitamin E capsules can be applied directly to the skin.

It is a healthy supplement to add to your daily intake, but be sure to consult with your doctor before taking any vitamins or other supplements.

Let’s take a closer look at the ways Vitamin E is beneficial for the skin:

1. An Excellent Moisturizer

The hydrating and moisturizing benefits of Vitamin E will help treat and eliminate dry skin.

Many topical products contain this amazing nutrient because of the healthy effects that it has on the skin.

2. Relieves Itching Of The Skin

Since Vitamin E is such a great moisturizer, it will help to relieve dry, flaking and itching skin. This can be done orally, by taking a supplement or by using topical products which contain the vitamin.

3. Helps Prevent Fine Lines And Wrinkles

Another benefit to having well moisturized skin, is that there is little or no dryness. When our skin is dry, we are more prone to fine lines and wrinkles, which make us appear older than we actually are.

Always keep your skin as hydrated as possible to prevent premature aging.

4. Helps Improve Atopic Dermatitis

This study reveals that taking oral 400 IU of Vitamin E, helps to improve atopic dermatitis. Some of the symptoms of this condition are itching, eczema, dry skin and thickening of the skin.

5. Can Be Used As A Sunburn Treatment

If are experiencing a sunburn, apply topical lotions that contain Vitamin E. This can help speed up the healing of the epidermis layer of the skin and prevent further damage.

Make Sure You Do A Patch Test!

As with anything that you apply to your skin, you should first do a patch test, to ensure that you don’t have any allergic reactions. This is a simple and safe way to protect yourself.

To do the patch test, all you have to do is take a small amount of the Vitamin E oil, or whatever you are testing, and put it on a cotton swab.

Apply it to an inconspicuous place on your body, such as behind you knee or ear. Dab a small amount on the skin and observe it 24-48 hours later. If there is no redness or itching, you are most likely not allergic to it.

Conclusion

In addition to incorporating Vitamin E in your skin care regimen, there are more ways to help create and maintain healthy skin.

The most important thing to do for your skin is to protect it from the ultra violet rays of the sun. To do this, always wear a sunscreen of at least 30 SPF when spending time outdoors. Apply it twenty minutes before stepping outside and reapply as needed.

You should also protect your face not only with sunscreen, but with sunglasses as well. This will help prevent crow’s feet. It is also a good idea to apply a lip balm that has sunscreen in it, to protect the delicate skin on your lips.

For further reading, check out Why Your Skin Has Different Summer And Winter Needs and So Which Is Better To Wash Your Face, Hot Or Cold Water?

Image