Natural Beauty

Do you ever wonder how celebrities get their skin so smooth, flawless, and wrinkle-free? Do you wonder what beauty treatments might help you achieve that same youthful glow? Well, truth be told, no beauty treatment can be truly successful without a good basic skin care regimen of cleansing, toning, and moisturizing.

Natural beauty products (meaning they are derived directly from plants as opposed to being produced synthetically), have received great attention in recent years as causing fewer allergic reactions. Research carried out in 1994 by the US Food and Drug Administration found that nearly one-quarter of people surveyed had suffered an allergic reaction to synthetic cosmetic products.

Steps to Healthy Skin

Getting into a daily skin care regimen can help improve the texture of your skin, minimize fine lines, and protect your skin from aging.

Cleansing helps remove pollutants, although cleansing your skin incorrectly can strip it of natural oils that are essential for healthy, soft skin. If you have dry skin, try a cream- or lotion-based cleansing product. If you have oily skin on your face, try a gel- or water-based product. Those who are prone to breakouts may want to use a medicated soap or lotion formulated to decrease breakouts. Cleansing should be done both morning and night.

The most common natural ingredients used in cleansers include tea tree oil, which acts as an antiseptic, and aloe vera, which is a natural moisturizer. For the body, use a gentle body wash. Fruit oils are commonly found in shower gels and soaps to nourish and hydrate the skin. Common fruit oils include citrus fruits, banana, melon, pineapple, and apple.

Toners help tighten the pores and restore the skin's pH balance. They also help cleanse the skin of leftover cleanser or make-up. Rose water is a natural toner that also has anti-inflammatory effects. Other additions to natural toners include the antioxidant vitamin C, alpha hydroxy acids (fruit and milk-based acids), and almond oil extract.

A moisturizer is essential to hydrate and protect the skin from damage, and to keep it looking young. Natural moisturizers generally contain cocoa butter, shea butter, essential oils, and aloe vera, which all help to protect and soften the skin.

A moisturizing cream should be applied every morning and evening to the face and body (you probably want to buy one specifically designed for the face). If you have dry skin, you should choose a moisturizer containing oil, and if you have oily skin you should choose water-based creams and oil-free formulas.

For a natural facial moisturizer, mix 50 mL of pure hazelnut oil, 10 drops of pure camomile essential oil, and 10 drops of pure lavender essential oil. Place in a dark glass bottle and shake well before use.

Natural exfoliants help remove the dull layer of surface skin and reveal the new skin beneath. They also help to reduce the appearance of pores and fine wrinkles. Natural exfoliating treatments may contain alpha hydroxy acids, natural muds, or salts to remove impurities in the skin. Try exfoliating once or twice a week, depending on your skin type.

Drinking plenty of pure distilled water is essential for healthy, hydrated, and clear-looking skin.

Healthy Diet

Radiant skin also comes from the inside out. Ensure a wholesome diet filled with fruit, vegetables, essential fats, whole grains, and lean proteins.

Maintaining optimal health as well as developing a routine that keeps your skin clean, toned, exfoliated, and moisturized can help you look your best so you too can shine like your favourite star.