Let’s face it. Having sensitive skin can be a challenge. Whether dry or oily, filled with acne or flaky patches, it is very rare to find someone with flawless skin. And for every skin problem, there are dizzying arrays of products on the market to combat that problem. Most people don’t have the time or the budget to test the latest products for sensitive skin. And although the beauty industry would have us believe we need to be millionaires and buy into the latest product trends to keep our sensitive skin looking its best, there are many home remedies that will work well.
Not only are home remedies cheaper, but they also have fewer harsh chemicals or additives that can harm our skin. With a few items that you probably already have in your cupboard, you can easily combat the problems of sensitive skin in a more natural and budget friendly way!
Aloe
Because of its gel-like consistency and anti-inflammatory properties, aloe is a great help for difficult skin. Aloe promotes cell regeneration and heals inflammation, helping your skin look tighter and healthier. Aloe can be taken directly from the aloe plant; all you need to do is break off the tip of the leaf and squeeze out the gel. It can also be purchased at local drug stores in a variety of gels or sprays. The more organic and natural the better. Aloe is a great remedy for burns and insect bites as well. Like most home remedies, aloe can be added to other ingredients to boost effectiveness. For instance, the combination of refreshing aloe and cooling cucumber makes an energizing spritz on a hot day.
Avocado
Since the skin is the largest organ in the body, its care is paramount to making you look and feel your best. Avocado is a great natural remedy that contains vitamins C and E and has anti-inflammatory properties. Amazingly, avocado can actually help your body produce more collagen, which makes your skin smoother and tighter. You can reap many of these benefits by eating avocado, but applying avocado to your face is even more beneficial. Using avocado as a mask makes it a moisturizer, exfoliant and anti-inflammatory all at once. Mashing the avocado and adding honey or oatmeal is even more soothing and effective.
Honey
Honey is a great natural moisturizer for skin, especially skin suffering from eczema or psoriasis. The more raw and organic the honey, the better. Honey is good at balancing the bacteria on the skin, so it is very helpful with acne problems, as well. Honey could also help any blemishes on your skin heal faster. A dollop of honey can be used as a spot treatment, or as part of a mask. Mixing honey with cinnamon does wonders for your skin, and is both an antioxidant and anti-microbial potion. Honey is also an exfoliant, and as it helps you shed dead skin cells, it reveals healthier, brighter skin. It is also more gentle than more over-the-counter exfoliants, so even if you are breaking out this will help.
Natural oils
There are several oil that serve as natural remedies for sensitive skin. Olive oil is a simple ingredient that you probably already have in your pantry. The antioxidant properties prevent aging, and could also help with winkles or dry spots. Olive oil also contains anti-inflammatory properties, and could reduce the appearance of puffiness. Using a cotton ball to dab olive oil on your skin is a sensible way to apply this natural moisturizer. Olive oil is especially effective if you have had too much sun. Coconut oil is another oil that can be used to moisturize. Additionally, the fatty acids in coconut oil harness microbial properties that are good at combating acne, and balancing the skin’s bacteria.
There are other oils that can help sensitive skin that are not as well-known as olive and coconut oils. The Village Green Apothecary has some all-natural products that solve the dryness issue if your own cupboards are bare. Made with organic argan, jojoba and kukui oil, this skin hair and nail oil can be applied with a pump spray if you would prefer not to fuss with cotton balls. Another product, Skin Food, contains sunflower seed oil, rosemary, and vitamin E to tone your skin and heal it.
Oatmeal
According to dermatologists, oatmeal is a wonder treatment for sensitive skin such as eczema. Oatmeal has anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and can even be used to treat itchy skin. Oats can be used in a variety of different ways. Their rough texture makes them perfect for a scrub which can be used in the shower, but since they contain lipids and proteins they also make a great moisturizer. Put a cupful in the bath to unleash their moisturizing powers and also to soothe itchy skin. Finally, oats can be used in paste form as a homemade face mask, or mixed with other helpful ingredients such as honey to multiply the benefits.
As you can see, the world of nature offers a plethora of treatments for difficult skin problems. There is no need to break the bank or use severe chemicals to make your skin shine.