It should be noted that not all honey is created equal. Most of the honey found in grocery stores has been processed with heat, which kills off healing enzymes and destroys a lot of the nutrient-rich content. But, raw honey hasn’t been processed and will give your skin the healing benefits that it needs. Also, if you have allergies, try a patch test first and/or ask you physician if raw honey is a right for you.

BENEFITS

Raw honey is an amazing natural beauty solution for all skin types because of its healing skin benefits. It does wonders for a wide variety of skin ailments including:

Acne and enlarged pores
Rosacea
Eczema
Hyperpigmentation
Sensitive, mature, and dull lifeless skin

With its natural pH level of 4.5, raw honey falls within skin’s naturally healthy pH range (Is pH Balanced Skin Care Important?). Its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties make it great for healing cuts and burns by killing bacteria and fungus. Raw honey also contains gluconic acid, a mild alpha hydroxy acid that brightens the complexion, evens out skin tone, and lightens scars and age spots.

Depending on where the honey is collected from, it contains many nutrients and minerals excellent for skin health such as vitamin B, iron, manganese, copper, potassium and calcium. It also acts as a humectant drawing moisture to the skin and is perfect as a gentle cleansing solution for even very sensitive skin. When mixed with water, honey releases peroxide properties which helps heal acne and impede bacterial growth causing more acne.

HOW TO USE
Mask: To use raw honey as a mask, simply cleanse your skin, put a layer of honey on your face, and relax for 10 to 15 minutes. The heat from your skin can make it thin out, so raw honey works best.
Cleanser: As a face wash, add a quarter size amount or more to wet hands, massage into skin and rinse. Follow with your usual serum or moisturizer.

If no product works for you, it  may be time to go natural with honey.  No matter your skin type or the state of your skin, honey is a great product to incorporate.

This golden gel provides deep hydration for dry, stressed skin by delivering essentials oils and vitamins into the skin, giving the complexion an extra boost of moisture.

The Golden Flame Hydration Mask contains Hyaluronic acid, which attracts water like a magnet to your cells. Hyaluronic acid actually plumps and moisturizes the cells that make up your skin.

This mask also contains calendula, chamomile and cucumber extracts to improve skin’s texture and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

How to Use:

Use this mask in the morning or evening after you cleanse.  A dime to a quarter-sized amount does the trick, a little goes a long way.

Apply it to your face and neck, and leave it on overnight or all day under your makeup. The mask is a light golden color, but when you put it on, it’s clear. It has a gel-like consistency, almost like aloe vera gel, that absorbs into skin. Since it is so light, I didn’t have to worry about ruining my pillowcase.  The fragrance is very light too, almost unnoticeable.

After using, my skin looked well-hydrated, felt smooth and soft to the touch, and it reduced redness. Of course, this mask can also be applied to skin for 15 to 20 minutes and then rinsed off if you prefer, but it is better to leave the ingredients on your skin for maximum potential.

The Astara Golden Flame Hydration Mask should last about six months with bi-weekly use. It’s also available in a 15ml sample-sized jar as part of the Astara Mask Kit.

This mask is suitable for all skin types and revives dry skin, restores clarity and exfoliates with the help of oatmeal, spirulina, lemongrass, ginseng, citrus bioflavinoids, Vitamin A, sage extract, and algae.

The mask itself is a fresh smelling, pearl-white, thick cream with blue jojoba beads swirling around in the mix. Those little blue beads bring oxygen and moisture to the skin. It also has a slightly grainy consistency, so it’s perfect as a gentle exfoliator.

Using it is pretty simple. Once or twice a week, after cleansing skin, apply a generous layer to a damp face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Massage with gentle circular motions, and then allow the mask to activate and work its magic for 15 minutes.  Rinse off and finish by applying a serum or moisturizer.

After using the product, my skin felt refreshed, smooth, hydrated and brightened.  It is cool going on and seems to be a perfect mid-week mask to do for a quick brighten-up.

The Astara Sea Mineral Mask should last about six months with bi-weekly use. It’s also available in a 15ml sample-sized jar as part of the Astara Mask Kit.

A good mask can make the difference between good skin and glowing skin.  We recommend everyone incorporate a mask into their routine for great skin.

You asked, and we’re answering! Here is a list of our Top 10 products that we can’t live without:

Skinceuticals C+AHA

A BeautyatSkinDeep.com anti-aging favorite! With daily use your skin will feel softer, look firmer and brighter. Skinceuticals C+AHA exfoliates dead skin cells and firms with 15% L-ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) and 10% concentration of hydroxy acids. This powerhouse:

• Builds collagen, firms the skin, brightens skin tone
• Clears blemishes
• Exfoliates dead skin cells to reveal newer, more youthful skin
• Reduces the appearance of age spots

If there is one anti-aging product to splurge on, it is the C+AHA, everyone sees results with daily use!

Astara Daily Refining Scrub

This scrub has teeny-tiny grains, almost like a meal or clay, to buff away dead skin. You can see the difference with just one use, our skin was left clean, fresh and glowing.  This is a great product for men to use as a cleanser so that they buff away dead skin while they’re at it.

Dr. Denese Hydrating Cleanser
An intensely hydrating cleanser, Dr. Denese Hydrating Cleanser nourishes and cleanses dry, partched skin. Formulated for dry and sensitive skin types, a little goes  a long way and the hydration will plump the skin.  The pearl-like formula rinses clean without any residue, and all it leaves behind is soft, silky skin. 

LaLicious Sugar Souffle Scrub
Yum, and yum! LaLicious’ Sugar Souffle Scrub smells as amazing as it sounds (and we aren’t just saying that, it’s true!).  It’s a great way to slough off dead skin cells from your body AND moisturize at the same time. We love its all-natural, paraben-free formula which is also enriched with decadent and nourishing vitamin E, coconut and almond oil.  Comes in multiple scents that will blow you away!

Skinceuticals Daily Moisture
A daily moisturizer for normal to oily skin, this product cannot be beat. The lightweight pore-minimizing lotion hydrates and nourishes skin, and helps reduce the appearance of pore size with an exclusive combination of natural extracts. High levels of pure vitamin E heal and protect, while Brazilian sea algae delivers proteins, amino acids, and essential minerals to the skin. And, if that wasn’t enough, Daily Moisture contains burnet, cinnamon and ginger to help reduce pore size without leaving the skin feeling greasy.

Aminogenesis Photolagen
We cannot say enough about this product. In our opinion, it is a must-have for any anti-aging arsenal. Photolagen is an intensive treatment for sun damaged, photo depleted and prematurely aged skin.
In addition, this light lotion clears mild acne, increases moisture, reverses sun damage, diminishes age spots and dark circles and improves skin’s firmness and texture all with the help of amino acids. What a powerhouse!

Astara Mask Sampler Kit
One of the only skin care lines to have  a line of masks.  LOVE.

We adore this kit, because what is better than a mask? Well, six of them, of course! The good people at Astara thought of everything—in addition to the 15ml-sized masks, the kit comes in a handy travel case and includes an application brush. Masks include:

• Sea Mineral Mask – Detoxifies and revitalizes for a healthy complexion.
• Nourishing Vitamin Mask – Extreme nourishment to revive and renew skin.
• Blue Flame Purification Mask – Quick relief for oily skin and blemish spot treatment.
• Green Papaya Nutrient Mask – Heals and protects irritated sensitive skin.
• Violet Flame Enzyme Mask – Rescues and nourishes damaged mature skin.
• Golden Flame Hydration Mask – Hydrates severe dry skin.

Skinceuticals Ultimate UV Defense
Perfect for all skin types, cleanly absorbs and is great to wear under most makeup.  This PABA-free sunscreen contains 7% transparent zinc oxide to help protect against the damaging effects of UVA and UVB rays. Cosmetically elegant and moisturizing, it’s ideal for daily use and perfect for high-altitude climates.

Clarisonic Skin Care Brush
If you have blemishes, dry skin or large pores, this is your savior.

The Clarisonic Skin Care Brush removes makeup and cleans the skin 6xs better than manual cleansing.  You can use it two times a day and is perfect for all skin types.  Not only does it clean better, it removes dead skin cells so that your product will absorb better and becomes more effective (moisturizers, peptide and antioxidant serums).

St Tropez Self-Tanners
This line of self-tanning products go on evenly and have a great, rich color .  Application is simple (we love the mousse the most), and results look like you spent a week on the beach—no orangey, streaky or patchy skin. The fragrance is light and pleasant, and clean-up is easy.

If you’ve tried any of these products, let us know what you think. We hope our favorites become some of yours.

I haven’t used a lotion-type moisturizer in years, I opt for liquid serums to moisturize so that I don’t breakout, but as I age, I have to change my routine.

After trying multiple moisturizers that made me oily and breakout, this moisturizer did the trick, even under my sunscreen.

In the morning, I use a sparingly amount all over my face and follow with sunscreen.  At night, cleanse, apply vitamin serums and follow with Daily Moisture.

There is barely a scent to this lotion and it doesn’t feel greasy or heavy going on.  It is very light and cleanly absorbs into the skin so that makeup goes on evenly.  In fact, your makeup may go on better if you have had dry skin that you were trying to cover-up.

If you are looking for a moisturizer that won’t enlarge your pores (it is formulated to shrink pores) or make you oily, this might be the moisturizer you have been waiting for.

Skinceuticals Daily Moisture is $47.50 for a 60ml jar.  One jar will last you 6 months with daily use, a little goes a long way.

The skin is the largest organ in the body, and treating it with pure, natural ingredients, such as essential oils, is a great way to keep skin looking and feeling its best.

Here are some beneficial essential oils for the skin:

Rose
In aromatherapy, rose oil inspires emotional calm and stability without sedative effects, and the aroma is considered powerful and comforting. But, rose essential oil also works well on a variety of skin types due to its mild anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties which help tone and balance the skin. Rose oil and rose water can also be used to hydrate skin and is perfect for use during drying winter months and on dry, mature and aging skin.

Jasmine
Although expensive, this essential oil does more than just smell exquisite – it deeply relaxes, lifts depression and boosts confidence.

As a skincare treatment, Jasmine essential oil tones and improves skin elasticity, while helping to reduce stretch marks and scars. It tones dry, greasy, irritated and sensitive skin and is often used to assist with stretch marks and to reduce scarring.

It’s non-toxic, non-irritant and generally non-sensitizing, although some people do have an allergic reaction to the oil, and it should not be used in pregnancy.

Ylang Ylang
Considered a somewhat masculine-scented essential oil, Ylang Ylang has been traditionally used in beauty and skin care since its plant hormones promote cellular regeneration. Its moisture balancing effect on the skin’s natural sebum production makes Ylang Ylang oil suitable for sensitive, oily, dry and mature skin types.

Ylang Ylang also has antibacterial, antiseptic and anti-seborrheic properties and works well as a skin care treatment for normal-combination and oil-rich stressed skin. It is also beneficial for those suffering from acne, broken capillaries, scars, seborrhea and varicose veins. Because it is bactericidal, Ylang Ylang also functions well as a deodorant.

Tea Tree
Tea tree oil has a unique fragrance that some may found overpowering. But, it makes for an effective natural acne and oily skin treatment due to its antibacterial, anti-fungal, antiseptic, and germicidal properties.

Testing the oil on a small patch of skin is recommended before using it over a larger area. As with any product or treatment, if a rash develops, discontinue use. You can also dilute tee tree oil (or any essential oil) with a base oil of Jojoba or Almond Oil.

For those with acne, tea tree oil can be applied to skin once or twice daily by directly dabbing it onto a pimple with a cotton swab. A few drops can also be applied to the oily T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) or to the entire face. But, be sure to keep it away from eyes and out of the nose.

Many essential oils should be used with a base oil such as Jojoba or Almond. A general guide is 5 drops of essential oil per 25mL of base oil.

Pomegranate Seed Oil

Pomegranate seed oil revitalizes dull or mature skin, assists in smoothing wrinkles and soothes minor skin irritations. Without moisture, wrinkles become more abundant and pronounced, the skin looks tight and lacks luster. This little oil packs quite the multi-useful punch:

• Adds moisture back into the skin
• Improves skin elasticity and protects the skin with antioxidants
• Relieves minor skin irritations and inflammation, including dry skin, eczema, psoriasis and sunburned skin

Several studies, including one conducted by the University of Michigan Medical School, have shown that pomegranate seed oil promotes skin regeneration and strengthening.

Pomegranate seed oil can be used alone or combined with a lotion or base oil such as Jojoba, Almond or Olive and then applied to the skin.

Grape Seed Oil

Grape seed oil is high in procyanidolic oligomers, or PCOs, which are powerful anti-oxidants. They’re the same antioxidants found in berries, green and black teas, and red wine. According to some experts, PCOs are more powerful than vitamins C and E. It’s also rich in essential and non-essential fatty acids: like linoleic acid, oleic acid and palmitic acid, which are vital for healthy skin.

Like all oils (and even serums), grape seed oil is readily absorbed through the skin instead of simply sitting on top of it like a lotion (see serums vs lotions.) And, it can fight free radicals and inhibit several enzymes that reduce collagen, elastin and other connective tissue that make skin youthful. In other words, grape seed oil actually helps the underlying structural problems caused by the loss of collagen and elastin. How great is that!?

Grape seed oil can be applied straight to the skin or mixed with lotion and then applied to the skin, and it’s suitable for all skin types.

Camellia Oil

Rich in vitamins A, B, and E, monounsaturated fats, plant collagen and antioxidants, Camellia oil is suitable for a variety of skin types including those with sensitive skin, and is great for combination skin.

It has a non-greasy texture similar to grape seed oil, absorbs quickly and has great penetration properties because it is close to the skin’s natural sebum. It also has a light sweet floral fragrance that many seem to like.

For skin care, simply rub a few drops of the oil into dry skin areas to help moisturize. It’s excellent on elbows, knees, hands and cuticles to help moisturize. Face, neck and chest will also reap the rewards of Camellia oil by firming and moisturizing. And, since it isn’t greasy, you can put it on over serums and under make-up.

To learn more about Camellia Oil, see our post Natural Skin & Hair Care with Camellia Oil.

Rosehip Seed Oil

This oil is best for dry, mature and aging skin and is not recommended for use on acne, or on very oily skin. Rosehip seed oil is truly an amazing product believed to be the best oil available for anti-aging and skin rejuvenation.

Rosehip seed oil contains Vitamin A, which helps to delay the effects of skin aging, assists with cell regeneration and promotes collagen and elastin production. This results in firmer, smoother, and more youthful skin with greater suppleness.

It also contains a high amount of essential fatty acids and Vitamin E, which further promotes healthy skin. In particular, it is rich in linoleic and linolenic acids, which are important skin nutrients.

Rosehip seed oil has been used successfully to treat many skin problems including:

• Stretch marks
• UV damage from overexposure to the sun
• Scars from surgery, burns, and acne
• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Wrinkles and premature skin aging
• Hyper-pigmentation
• Age spots

This mighty anti-aging oil is easily absorbed into the skin without a greasy residue. It’s a great hydrator, and penetrates dry or damaged skin immediately. This oil may be used straight from the bottle as a moisturizer, or it can be mixed with a lotion or base oil such as Jojoba, Almond or Olive and applied to the skin. Because it is so gentle, rosehip seed oil may be used undiluted on the skin, even on sensitive skin.

To learn more about facial oils, including how to use them on their own, with serums, lotions, or other oils, read out our post Want to Try Facial Oils? Here’s the Skinny.

Facial oils penetrate and deliver natural plant ingredients to the skin, creating more radiant and velvety soft skin. Over time, lines may soften and skin will take on a youthful glow.

Types of Facial Oils

A facial oil is water-free and consists of pure plant oils that are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids and other valuable nutrients for the skin. There are two types of oils—base oils and seed oils.

Base oils, such as Jojoba or Almond, are typically less expensive and are pretty mild. Seed oils, like Rose Hip, Camellia and Grape, are typically more expensive and pack a powerful punch and need to be blended with a mild base oil to dilute their concentration. Base oils and many seed oils can be used alone on the skin.

For the best anti-aging benefits, mix a few drops of seed oil with a base oil to boost antioxidants, vitamins and polyphenols to promote a healthy complexion, prevent aging and regenerate skin cells.

Using Facial Oils

Facial oils can be used morning or night in place of a moisturizer, or a few drops can be added to lotion when skin needs extra hydration. Facial oils can also be used on top of fully absorbed serums. But, be sure to allow 30 minutes for the oil to fully absorb into your skin before going to bed or applying make-up.

Just two to three drops of oil per application is needed to cover the face and about one to two drops for décolleté. If skin is very dry, use an extra drop or two. If too much is used, lightly blot off the excess.

Storing Oils

Once oils are exposed to air, oxidization occurs. Oils come in capsule form ensuring the freshest product possible with each application. But, bottles of oil stored out of sunlight in a cool, dark location will also keep the products integrity. If keeping oil in a bottle, it’s best that the bottle be dark in color to help keep as much light away from it as possible.

Facial oils are easily incorporated into any skincare routine and can be used by themselves or with serums and lotions. Read our post Why Using A Serum vs A Lotion Matters to learn about the difference between serums and lotions.

SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF, because of its high Vitamin C content, will firm and tighten your skin, no matter your skin type. Phloretin CF has antioxidants that build collagen, clear blemishes and even skin tone. Watch our video on “Vitamin C: What it Does & Why You Should Use It”

After five years of extensive research, SkinCeuticals developed this patent-pending breakthrough technology combining the newly-discovered, broad-range power of phloretin (an antioxidant derived from apples) with vitamin C and ferulic acid (thus the “CF”) in a formulation to divide and conquer sources of damage at every level.

Phloretin CF, is a liquid serum that protects against not only free radicals, but a range of other reactive molecules known to cause damage and DNA mutations among cell. (Read our post, “The Difference Between Serums & Lotions”) In addition, it corrects existing damage by stimulating the production of essential proteins and fibers and accelerating cell turnover (aka exfoliation.) The result is a more youthful, firm and radiant appearance.

What exactly can it do?

• Works to prevent the premature aging of your skin and corrects photodamage that has already occurred
• Stops the mutation of cells and shields the skin’s DNA to speed up cell turnover
• Blocks the discolorations produced by UV rays
• Improves the skin’s natural support system

For best results, it’s important to use in conjunction with a total skincare routine. Start with a good, strong facial cleanser and then apply SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF. To use, simply apply 4 or 5 drops to your face, neck and chest after you’ve dried off from washing. After that, you can follow up with the application of other SkinCeuticals products, or other skincare products of your choosing.

Phloretin CF 30ml bottle, $106 (reg price $152)

Formulated with an exclusive selection of natural extracts and oils, this fresh-smelling, rich and restorative moisturizer is perfect for use on dry or sensitive skin, but can be used on some combination skin, too. It has a light scent and I felt like it absorbed cleanly and evenly. I used it as a night cream every other night. Every night would have made my skin oilier.

The Brazilian sea algae contains a variety of nutrients that nourish and hydrate the skin, while grape seed, rose hip, and macadamia oils restore and maintain moisture, naturally. Emollience works very well for those who live in high altitudes, and cold or dry climates.

BENEFITS

• Nourishes and hydrates the skin
• Restores and maintains moisture
• Absorbs evenly and quickly

APPLICATION
A little bit goes a long way. Apply once or twice daily to face, neck, and chest (a pea-sized amount is about right for face and neck.) For optimal results, use after a SkinCeuticals serum and before a SkinCeuticals sunscreen.

Give your skin a much needed drink with SkinCeuticals Emollience. $47 for a 60ml jar.

So, what’s a girl gotta do to get rid of these pesky marks?

SkinCeuticals Pigment Regulator lightens and reduces existing spots, improves overall skin tone, and protects skin from future discolorations without the potentially harmful side-effects of harsh bleaching agents like hydroquinone.

To provide powerful, skin-brightening results without the potentially harmful side-effects of hydroquinone, the patent-pending formula combines:

• Two percent kojic acid
• Two percent emblica (an all-natural ingredient derived from gooseberries)
• Ten percent of a highly efficient exfoliating blend

SkinCeuticals Pigment Regulator is ideal for those with hyperpigmented or uneven skin tones who want clear, smooth, and bright skin without irritation or side effects.

Benefits:

• Reduces brown spots, freckles, dark patches, and blotchiness by breaking up melanin clusters on the skin’s surface
• Improves overall skin tone for a brighter, more radiant appearance
• Prevents future discolorations by inhibiting the production of excess melanin and preventing excess melanin from traveling to the skin’s surface

Usage:

As with any spot treatment, you need to be patient and give the product it at least two months to work its magic. You can use it daily, year-round and long term without an unhealthy side-effects.

SkinCeuticals Pigment Regulator $65.50 for a 30ml bottle.

Specifically formulated for acne-prone, combination-oily skin, SkinCeuticals Clarifying Cleanser combines:

• Two percent salicylic acid to unclog pores and remove dirt, oil, and other cellular debris
• Glycolic and mandelic acids to gently exfoliate dead skin cells
• Microbeads to loosen skin cells without lacerating healthy skin

SkinCeuticals Clarifying Cleanser can be used with SkinCeuticals Blemish Control Gel. This fresh smelling, mild, creamy cleanser treats existing whiteheads, blackheads, and other acne-related blemishes, while helping to prevent future acne breakouts.

If you suffer from acne, please read our other post, “I Have Acne and Wrinkles. What Do I Treat First?”. Many users of this Clarifying Cleanser are very satisfied with the clearing results of this cleanser. It clarifies the skin and smoothes out any rough texture. Thus it’s a “Clarifying Cleanser”.

To use, simply wet the face, apply a small amount of cleaners into the hands with a few drops of water, lather between palms and gently massage the face. Make sure the cleanser is rinsed thoroughly off of the skin. If drying or peeling occurs, reduce the application to once per day or use every other day.

SkinCeuticals Clarifying Cleanser ,150ml bottle for $24.50

Make-up brushes make a big difference in the way your cosmetics enhance your beautiful features. Buy the best you can because when it comes to brushes, you get what you pay for. And, if cared for properly (see below), brushes can last decades. Really!

There are two kinds of brushes: natural and synthetic bristled. Natural bristles (animal hair) work best with powder products and synthetic brushes are best for applying creams and liquids.

 

 

SELECTING BRUSHES
For the most part, when selecting new brushes, make sure they are dense with a silky texture and a tapered, rounded shape. Four of the most useful brushes are the powder brush, blush/bronzer brush and two different eyeshadow brushes:

Powder Brush
The brush should be fairly flat with rounded edges so it gives a great all over application. It can also be squeezed into areas–like the nose–where oil and shine flare up. Let it also be known, that bigger does not mean better when it comes to powder brushes.

Blush/Bronzer Brush
Size matters in the case of this versatile brush. If it’s too large, the area you cover will be too wide. And, if the brush is too small, you will get a not-so-lovely stripe across your cheeks and forehead. Of course, the amount of product you use, the angle and pressure applied will effect the end result.

Eyeshadow Brushes
Using two different types of eyeshadow brushes with give you amazing results. About the size of a finger tip, one of the eyeshadow brushes should give a soft, even application across the entire eyelid. This brush should be soft and rounded. The other one should be used to apply shadow around the rim of the eyes, for a smoky effect and to smudge and blend.

BRUSH CARE
Once a month, mix warm water with a little soap and swish the head of the brush around in it. For natural bristles, a mild shampoo works well, and for synthetics, a simple mild dish soap will work. Once they’re clean, rinse them well in cool water, blot with paper towels, then lay flat until they dry completely. DO NOT stand them up in a cup to dry—gravity will pull them out of shape.

With continued care and proper use, make-up brushes can give you a flawless look year after year.

Autumn signals a time to begin slowing down as the days shorten, the temperature drops and Mother Nature puts on a fanciful foliage show.

APPLE-CIDER VINEGAR

Great for blocked pores, unprocessed and unheated organic apple-cider vinegar–which is a light brown, cloudy liquid—helps prevent inflammation and contains malic acid a natural alpha-hydroxy acid, that gently loosens dead skin, leaving it smooth and silky.

Apple-cider Vinegar Toner
2-3 cups of distilled water with a
1/2 cup of raw organic, unfiltered apple-cider vinegar
Mix together
Apply mixture to cotton and gently swipe over face

PUMPKIN

From our blog archives, we’ve pulled out the Pumpkin Face and Body Mask recipe for you.

It’s high in Vitamin A, C and Zinc – all of which are extremely beneficial to your skin. Everyone can benefit from the collagen-building and antioxidant properties of Vitamin C and A, and Zinc works in tandem to help clear up blemishes.

CINNAMON

Used for thousands of years as an antiseptic, astringent, antifungal treatment and anti-viral aid, cinnamon also helps ease digestion and menstrual cramps, and works as an exfoliant. What a powerhouse!

This relaxing cinnamon foot scrub smells divine and will give your sweet feet much needed pampering.

Cinnamon Foot Scrub
Juice from 5 Organic Lemons
1 T Olive Oil
1/4 Cup Whole Milk
1/2 Cup Water
1 t Cinnamon

Mix ingredients together and place in your tub or other foot-size bucket. Slather all over your heels (perfect for dry, cracked skin), balls of your feet, and toes. Keep scrub on for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water.

People with eczema often have asthma or hay fever, and there is often a family history of allergic conditions such as asthma, hay fever, or eczema.

THINGS THAT CAN WORSEN ECZEMA
I can thank my mom for my eczema. I consider myself fortunate as I can go years between occurrences. Once, after some investigative work, I discovered my mousepad was creating eczema symptoms in my hand. Here are some other causes:

Allergies to pollen, mold, dust mites, or animals
Contact with rough materials
Dry skin
Exposure to environmental irritants
Exposure to water
Feeling too hot or too cold
Fragrances or dyes
Stress

SYMPTOMS
Some may experience symptoms on their face, scalp, hands, and feet. For others, it’s seen on the inside of their knees and elbows, as well as their neck. During a severe outbreak, rashes can occur anywhere on the body. Symptoms also vary by person and can include:

• Blisters with oozing and crusting
• Itching
• Raw areas of the skin from scratching
• Skin coloring changes
• Skin redness or inflammation around the blisters
• Thickened or leather-like areas, which can occur after long-term irritation and scratching

SOLUTIONS
So what can one do when eczema comes knocking?

• Relieve the itch by using a cold compress and taking antihistamines to reduce severe itching.
• Avoid scratching and consider wearing light gloves during sleep.
• Keep skin moist with the use of ointments, creams, or lotions 2 – 3 times a day. Moisturizers should be free of alcohol, scents, dyes, fragrances, or other chemicals.
• Reduce Stress.
• Keep water contact brief and use less soap. Short, cooler baths are best.
• Avoid anything that makes your symptoms worse. This may include:
  • Certain foods
  • Irritants such as wool and lanolin
  • Strong soaps, detergents, chemicals and solvents

Of course, it’s always important to have a health care provider examine the lesions to rule out other possible causes and to properly diagnosis any skin problem.

Tamanu Oil is extremely healing because in addition to possessing many antioxidants, it is antimicrobial, antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory.

Research shows that Tamanu Oil is a strong anti-inflammatory and for that reason, it is used for rheumatism, eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions.

The oil also helps skin regenerate new healthy cells. Its extraordinary healing properties have been used for patients with a variety of ailments including:

• extreme burns and skin ulcers (including sunburns)
• acne and acne scars
• blisters
• diabetes sores
• dry and scaly skin
• bug bites and stings
• stretch marks
• age spots

It can also be used daily to keep skin healthy, supple and moisturized.

As a daily moisturizer, a few drops of Tamanu Oil can be applied to the face, delicate eye area, neck and chest. It can also be applied all over the body, preferably after a shower or bath to help seal in moisture.

Tamanu Oil is easily absorbed into the skin without an oily residue. The oil is a rich, deep golden brown color, and some say it smells like butter pecan ice cream. Yum!

With so many wonderful uses, Tamanu Oil just might be one of nature’s little miracles.

Also called tea seed oil, Camellia oil, comes from the Camellia Sinesis plant, a wild flower that grows in China and Japan. The seeds from the fruit are cold pressed to create an oil that is rich in vitamins A, B, and E, monounsaturated fats, plant collagen and antioxidants.

It has a non-greasy texture similar to grapeseed oil, absorbs quickly and has great penetration properties because it is close to the skin’s natural sebum. It also has a light sweet floral fragrance that many seem to like.

Camellia oil is a wonderful multipurpose oil that can be used as a face moisturizer, around the delicate eye area, hair treatment, body oil, lip balm, cleansing makeup remover and nailcare product. It’s been touted to revitalize hair, skin, and nails, reduce scars and new stretch marks, and it’s even suitable for sensitive skin.

Because it is high in olein acids, it protects, conditions, and provides shine to hair, similar to what you would find with silicone-based hair serums, but without the chemicals. It is best added all over to damp hair and also to dry hair ends.

For skin care, simply rub a few drops of the oil into dry skin areas to help moisturize. Its excellent on elbows, knees, hands and cuticles to help moisturize. Face, neck and chest will also reap the rewards of Camellia oil by firming and moisturizing. And, since it isn’t greasy, you can put it on over serums and under make-up.

Because of its versatility, you may want to try Camellia oil on face, body and hair to see where it works best for you.

While cleaning my cabinets, I came across my pouch of tried-and-true Rhassoul clay. I’ve used it for the past several years as an occasional mask, but I was excited to discover it has so many more uses.

Rhassoul Clay has a fine texture that easily mixes with water, and has a higher ratio of silica, magnesium, potassium, calcium, and other trace minerals compared to other clays, making it very nourishing to the skin.

Rhassoul clay comes from Morocco and has been used for 1,400 years to cleanse and detox the face and body, and has been used as a shampoo.

It also balances skin’s natural oil production, and is hydrating to dry skin and calming to oily skin. I have found that it leaves my skin smooth and glowing.

CLEANSER
I recently tried it as a facial cleanser by mixing a teaspoon of clay with enough water to make it somewhat watery. I then applied it over my face—just like I would any face wash—by gently massaging and then rinsing.

MASK
For a mask, add less water to make a paste, leave on the skin for about 10 minutes, and rinse. Over the years, I have experimented with the consistency of the mask so it’s easier to rinse off. If it’s too thick, spots of the clay can stick to your face and be difficult to rinse off. Watering it down a little will solve that problem.

SHAMPOO
Though I haven’t tried it as a shampoo, many claim that Rhassoul clay is surprisingly moisturizing, and because of its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties, it can also be used to treat dandruff.

It’s exciting to find new uses for old products!

The rate your body absorbs a substance is proportional to both the concentration of it and the surface area over which it is applied. So, the wider the contact area and the more concentrated the substance, the greater the absorption.

Many cosmetic products contain questionable ingredients that have been found to be toxic, irritating, cancer causing, suppress the immune system, create nervous and respiratory disorders, damage DNA and cause allergies.

We’ve written about some products to avoid in personal care products and wish to expand that list.

Aluminum

DEA (Diethanolamine)
Used as a foam booster in cosmetics, DEA is a known skin and eye irritant and causes contact dermatitis. DEA is absorbed easily through the skin and can accumulate in body organs and even the brain. With repeated use, DEA has resulted in increased liver and kidney cancer.

Dioxin
Often contained in antibacterial ingredients, dioxin is highly toxic and can cause reproductive and developmental problems, damage the immune system, interfere with hormones and also cause cancer. It’s a hormone-disrupting chemical with toxic effects in which our bodies have no defense against its damage. The most visible example was in 2004 when Viktor Yushchenko, the Ukrainian President, mysteriously developed very old looking skin, which was then determined to be caused by dioxin poisoning.

PABA
Commonly found in sunscreens, PABA works as a UV absorber. Recent studies have shown that PABA can increase cellular damage, which can lead to cancers and cause liver damage.

Before making a purchase, I’ve made it a habit of looking up the ingredients of a product and the product itself online. There are several reputable databases, but I prefer the Environmental Working Group’s Cosmetics Safety Database to find the health rating.

There are multiple kinds of masks to try – vitamin masks, acne masks, firming masks – this Clark’s Botanicals mask is a clay mask.

Clay masks are exactly what they sound like – clay mixed with vitamins and botanicals that dry on your skin. As it dries, the clay “sucks” the impurities from your skin. Clay masks will reduce redness, help with acne as it dries and absorb all the impurities in and on your skin. Your skin will look brighter, smoother and more luminous.

Clark’s Botanicals Intense Radiance Mask is:

• a brightening and clarifying white-clay face mask
• very fine-grained and smooth and will increase collagen production, reduce redness and treat acne
• great for almost all skin types – problematic, combination and aging skin

We have tried a multitude of masks over the years and I can’t say this Clark’s Botanicals Intense Radiance Mask blew me away. It was another clay mask that did its job, nothing more, nothing less. As a disclaimer, I can’t say I have ever been blown away by a clay mask, they are all about the same.

I love the Clark’s line, but if you already have a clay mask that you love at home, you may be better off finishing that one up before purchasing this one.

After use, my skin felt smooth, a lot less blotchy and my pores were very tight. One thing that did stand out about this mask is how easy it was to wash off. Clay masks often have spots that are so hard and dry that they take lots of water and scrubbing to remove from your face. Not with this one, it was a true mask that easily washed off and had a light, pleasant fragrance.

This mask contains a few other ingredients worth mentioning:

• Green algae extract which stimulates collagen production and calms redness
• White genepi plant extract, an organic Alpine plant, that has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and also infuses antioxidants into the skin
• Algae extract which tightens the skin and helps it to retain moisture

To use, apply mask to freshly cleansed skin once or twice and week, and leave on for 30 minutes. The mask has a fresh botanical scent and is thick and slightly gummy in texture.

Clark’s Botanicals Intense Radiance Mask, 1.7 fl.oz., $61.20 (it is currently 15% off of $72)

The product has a thick and creamy consistency. The mask has a wonderfully light smell and is cool to the touch; just placing my fingers in the jar for the first time made me want to put it all over my face.

Clark’s touts their Deep Moisture Mask as an intensive skin treatment that revitalizes aging, dry and environmentally stressed-out skin. With each use, your skin will retain more moisture and begins to glow. Over time, the appearance of wrinkles becomes diminished.

So, what ingredients make this mask so special? It’s the high concentrations of algae extract, coupled with comfrey root, Jasmine Absolute and Japanese Green Tea that make it one of the most potent antioxidant treatments on the market.

Let’s break down the ingredients and their benefits:

• The algae in this product, along with the comfrey, calm the skin.
• Jasmine Absolute, an essential oil with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and stimulates your immune system. All of which nurture the skin and stimulate collagen production.
• Japanese Green Tea infuses skin with powerful antioxidants.

Francesco Clark, founder of Clark’s Botanicals, wanted to develop a mask that could hydrate and soothe skin quickly, and be used year-round, nourishing the skin and restore a natural glow. Besides being able to use this mask throughout the year, it is suitable for all skin types including those that are prone to acne.

After cleansing the skin, apply serums and then the moisture mask. You may use this as a regular moisturizer OR a facial mask!

• To use as a mask, apply a thick coat over the face and neck area. Leave on for 15-25 min and wash off with warm water.
• For extra hydration as a mask, apply prior to showering and let the steam do the work for you. Leave the Moisture Mask on for the duration of your shower and wash off prior to exiting.

After each use, my skin felt softer to the touch, didn’t look as red and tightness subsided. And, I loved that it was a natural skin care solution for my dehydrated skin.

Clark’s Botanicals Deep Moisture Mask, 1.7 fl.oz., $72

Created to combat dryness while working as an anti-ager, Clark’s Botanicals Smoothing Marine Cream exfoliates, moisturizes and boosts the skin’s collagen production. It uses natural ingredients like glycolic acid, derived from sugar, and algae extracts to soften fine lines and wrinkles. The glycolic molecules are actually wrapped in soothing algae and yeast extracts to make it extra gentle. Jasmine Absolute, a precious essential oil, reduces inflammation, nurtures skin and stimulates collagen production.

This is how I used it…

• Before bedtime, I cleansed my skin with Clark’s Soothing Herbal Face Wash and then applied the Smoothing Marine Cream to my face, neck and decollate. (Those with acne or oily skin may want to use Clark’s Skin Clearing Face & Body Wash, which contains salicylic acid, first.)

• Once applied, I experienced a gentle tingle from the glycolic acid in the Smoothing Marine Cream as it exfoliated. Glycolic acid also increases skin’s natural production of hyaluronic acid, the body’s natural water trapping molecule which helps to naturally moisturize the skin from the inside out. Your ability to product hyaluronic acid naturally diminishes with age.

• If you use serums, be sure to place the serum onto cleansed skin first, and then follow with the Smoothing Marine Cream.

I love the way this product smells and feels on my skin. The consistency is creamy, but not heavy or greasy. With this product, a little bit really does go a long way. Clark’s Smoothing Marine Cream is an excellent anti-aging product for any skin type.

Clark’s Botanicals Smoothing Marine Cream, 1.7 fl oz, $115 (plus 15% off automatic coupon taken at checkout!)

It began when he privately complained about the ever deepening lines around his eyes. Note: I actually love those lines because they emerged from years of smiling, laughing and enjoying life. I encouraged him to use sunscreen, and he agreed mainly because his skin is fair and we live in a sunny part of the United States. But, he quickly dismissed all of my other anti-aging lotion and serum suggestions and classified them as “too sticky” or “too girlie smelling.” Not a winner was had in the bunch.

So, imagine my surprise when he tried Clark’s Botanicals Nourishing Youth Serum and wouldn’t give it up!

Clark’s claims this serum fights visible signs of aging by using two topical neuropeptides (for those of us who are not scientists, neuropeptides are strings of amino acids naturally found in the body that work on the skin to slow the signs of aging), multiple antioxidants and an incredible blend of botanicals. Some of those ingredients include algae extract, Vitamin C and aloe.

It also contains jasmine, an essential oil with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and immuno-stimulating effects, to nurture skin and stimulate collagen production.

The serum works to help smooth away crow’s feet, frown furrows, forehead lines, lip wrinkles and bands on the neck. Skin becomes nourished and hydrated, and a more youthful tone and texture is revealed with regular use.

Both my husband and I love its light, non-greasy, non-sticky texture, and I find it can be easily worn under makeup. The scent is neutral and fresh, and a little dab goes a long way.

If you’re looking for an impressive natural anti-aging serum and moisturizer in one, Clark’s Botanicals Nourishing Youth Serum might be the way to go. Suitable for all skin types for use morning and night.

Clark’s Botanicals Nourishing Youth Serum, 1.0 fl oz, $155 Want to try this product?

This cleanser is non-foaming and spreads smoothly across the skin. It includes yummy all-natural ingredients like Vitamin E, lavender, aloe, cucumber and jasmine to calm skin and replenish moisture. It’s very gentle, highly effective for removing make-up, oil and dirt, without irritation. It’s a great cleanser for combination and dry skin.

I even used the facial cleanser as a treatment:

First, I applied a warm, moist washcloth over my face for a couple of minutes, removed it and then applied a thin layer of the cleanser to my face. I let the product sit on my skin for 10 to 15 minutes and then gently blotted it off. My skin felt soft, supple and hydrated, it was like heaven.

As an added bonus, this cleanser is perfectly convenient for the gym and camping because it can be used with or without water:

With Water: Wet the face with warm water and apply a dime-sized amount to entire face using a circular motion. Rinse and pat dry.

Without Water: Apply cleanser with a soft cloth to entire face and massage into skin using a gentle circular motion. Turn the cloth over and remove any excess cleanser. There is no need to rinse.

If you’re looking for a fresh, light and moisturizing facial cleanser that leaves you feeling like you’re treating your skin to something special each day, consider Clark’s Soothing Herbal Face Wash.

Clark’s Botanicals Soothing Herbal Face Wash, 7.4 fl oz, $45

This powder comes in 10 shades ranging from Pale Blonde to Darkest Brown, enabling you to spread out trips to the salon while protecting your scalp from UVA/UVB rays. You can even experiment with a couple of colors for highlights and low lights.

The great thing about this product is that it is dermatologist approved, free of animal testing and 100% natural. Every ingredient in Hair Shadz is derived from Mother Nature and contains zero additives or talc. It offers the first patented sun protection blend for hair and scalp by containing Zinc Oxide.

Hair Shadz can also make roots and scalp look less oily by absorbing oil and prolonging the life of your hair between washings. The powder lasts as long as the next wash and easily washes out once you cleanse your hair.

It gives hair amazing volume and is simple to use. Just remove the cap, tap it on your hand until powder comes out of the brush and tap/brush it onto your roots where you see the growth. Application takes minutes.

Another bonus? The tube comes in a handy travel/purse friendly size, so you can take in anywhere.

So, if you’re looking to blend away roots and grey hairs, protect your scalp from sun exposure and make hair look fabulous between washes, Monimay Hair Shadz is a beautiful all-natural three-in-one solution.

Monimay Hair Shadz is $29.95 for a 1oz bottle. With daily use, it will last 3-6 months.