It’s
easy to create a skincare routine using all-natural items you’ll find in your
own kitchen or garden. Home remedies work just as well as many store-bought
products, and you’ll be avoiding a lot of harmful chemicals – not to mention
saving some money.
Use this article as a guide and also try different variations on things to get
the best results for your skin.
What are your skin concerns?
First things first, you need to determine what skin type you have as this will inform your skincare concerns. Most people have either normal, balanced skin or else oily, dry, or a combination of the two. If your skin is very oily or very dry, chat to a dermatologist to determine if medical help is appropriate.
You should also think about what skin concerns you want to address. Wrinkles, acne, dull skin, dark spots – what’s got you worried?
Is your skin sensitive?
Work out whether your skin is sensitive to harsh ingredients. If your skin often becomes red, irritated, or breaks out in acne you probably have sensitive skin. Especially if this occurs after using perfume or skincare products.
How much time can you give to skincare?
Think about how much time and energy you can devote to your skin. A full skincare routine involves cleansing, toning, exfoliating, moisturising, and spot treatments. You don’t have to do all these but make sure you’re at least cleansing and moisturising.
Designing your natural skincare routine
Choose some natural skincare ingredients you want to use. We’ve listed some of the best below.
For dry skin:
- Olive oil
- Coconut oil
- Almond oil
- Cream
- Honey
- Avocado
- Aloe vera
For oily skin:
- Lemon juice diluted with water
- Egg white
- Tomatoes
- Shredded apple
- Shredded cucumber
- Apple cider vinegar
For combination skin:
- Yogurt
- Milk
- Honey
- Avocado
- Shredded apple
- Shredded cucumber
For normal skin:
- Yogurt
- Honey
- Avocado
- Almond oil
- Green tea
Make an organic exfoliating scrub
Exfoliating scrubs slough off dead, dull skin cells while locking moisture into the remaining skin. Most scrubs are made from a liquid and exfoliant mixed in equal parts. You can use one of the liquids listed above and blend it with one the following:
- Sugar, brown or white
- Flour
- Oatmeal or dried oats
- Fresh strawberries
Create spot treatments for acne
Spot
treatments for acne are great because you can apply them very locally to clear
up pimples without irritating other skin. Try the options below, applying
gently with a q-tip or cotton ball.
- Apply 3 drops of tea tree oil to the problem area – diluted in water to 10-15%
- Apply 6 drops of jojoba oil to your skin to keep it moisturised and prevent acne
- Apply 3 drops of lemon juice to the problem area each day. The acid in the lemon will kill off acne-causing bacteria.
Choose a daily moisturiser
Your daily moisturiser can be an oil, aloe vera gel, or any other moisturizing lotion. The key thing is to find one that can be left on for up to 15 minuted without irritating your skin.
As strange as it may seem, using an oily moisturiser if you have acne, but it will help to dissolve and clean away the excess sebum in acne. Dermatologists often recommend oil-based moisturisers as they attract and hold water, hydrating your skin effectively.
There are some great store-bought organic moisturisers out there, such as Okana’s Natural Berry Night Moisturiser or Natural Vegetable Day Moisturiser.
Starting your skincare routine
Start your new routine slowly so your skin can adjust. First, try 1 day out of the week, then 2, then 3, and so on.
Depending on your skin and the ingredients you’re using, you may only need to scrub 2-3 times a week or use your face mask just once. Find the balance that works for you.
Wash and moisturise
Wash your skin once every day, and moisturise afterwards while your skin is still a little damp. Use warm water, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin.
Cleanse using light, circular massaging motions – always pushing upwards. This will help prevent wrinkles and avoid irritating your skin.
Moisturise before bed
As long as your skin isn’t oily, you should always moisturise before bed. That way, your skin can absorb moisture while you sleep, maximising hydration.