5 Natural Winter Skin Remedies
We all know that winter can be harsh on our skin, especially if you're like me and a sneeze makes you break out. I've gone through it all, and (like everyone else with sensitive skin) tried everything on the market. For a long time I was following my dermatologists instructions and using a slew of prescription cremes and gels and my skin was happy for a few years. And then, like it always does, something changed and I began to break out again.
I recently read somewhere that it's a huge myth that your skin 'gets used to products'. Our skin is constantly changing, shedding layers, growing, and reacting to our daily lives. A product that once worked miracles for you may not work for you a few months later simply because your skin isn't the same skin and now needs something different.
The same conditions apply from person to person. A product that your friend loves might be horrible for you. We are all different, with different levels of stress, different hormones, different diets. We're going to be experimenting forever it seems. A few things that do remain a constant for everyone: your skin is going to look better with the right nutrients, hydration, and proper exercise.
With that said, if you've found that your skin is a bit lackluster lately, see if any of these natural remedies do the trick. I've always favored natural remedies over chemical filled prescriptions, and I've recently started a new regimen incorporating a bunch of products that you have or can make at home, and are relatively inexpensive. So far I've been seriously pleased with the results.
1. Coconut Oil
I know, I know, everyone and their mother is obsessed with this stuff. We've all read a bajillion articles online about the benefits and how it is the cure to literally all of your problems. Coconut oil has fast become my new best friend. I've been using it every morning and night for about 2 weeks now, and holy shit my skin has never been so soft in my life. I have a hunch that you need to use this product regularly for a period of time to see results. If you just use it a few times, or on and off, it won't have the same effect.
Tips From the Horn: Make sure to buy organic, virgin coconut oil. A jar can be pricey, but you only need to use about a teaspoon each time so it's going to last forever.
3. Brown Sugar and Honey Face Mask and Scrub
This one is super simple, yet crazy efficient. Honey has anti-bacterial and anti-aging properties, while brown sugar helps moisturize, and reverse sun damage. Pour a little honey into a small bowl and mix in about a tablespoon of sugar. Mix and apply all over the face for as long as you want. When you're done, turn the mask into a scrub to remove dead skin cells and then easily rinse off.
Tips from the Horn: If you have extra left over, save it to use for a body scrub in the shower. As long as it doesn't get wet this mixture will last a few days.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
This is another popular one with a myriad number of reasons that it's great for our bodies. I recently started using it as a toner, soaking a cotton ball in the stuff and carefully wiping it throughout the face. It's said to balance out the skin's oily-ness and dryness, shrink pores and pimples, and even fade sunspots and scars. So far my skin looks much more even and my acne has definitely subsided.
Tips from the Horn: ACV can burn when you put it on undiluted. Most people add a little water or herbal tea before applying it to the face. Play around and see what's best for you. Be aware that it also smells pretty strong, and can make your eyes water for a minute.
4. Clay FACE MASK
My favorite face mask for all skin types is Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay. I've had this tub for going on 3 years now; it lasts FOREVER and is only 8 or 9 bucks. You don't have to worry about it going bad or getting old because it's in powder form. Grab your bowl and scoop some out, then add water or apple cider vinegar (I use the vinegar) mix it up and apply a thick layer all over the face, avoiding eyes and mouth. This stuff literally makes your face pulsate, you can really feel it working. Let it dry for 10-20 minutes and then wash.
Tips from the Horn: This stuff can be a bitch to get off, but it's worth it. I suggest doing it in the shower and using a washcloth to slough it off.
5. VITAMINS: HAIR SKIN AND NAILS, COLLAGEN, and HYALURONIC ACID
I have seen a tremendous difference taking vitamins for my skin. Collagen was a life saver and taking it with hyaluronic acid is even better. These supplements work to help the skin to stay hydrated and increase cell turnover. Collagen and hyaluronic acid are compounds already found in the body so they are 100% natural. We can develop a deficiency due to lack of nutrition or aging, and taking these daily helps to replenish the body. Hair, skin, and nails is a no-brainer. It's a multivitamin you can find at your local drug store or super market and its packed with goodness for your largest organ.
Tips from the horn: I highly recommend buying only NeoCell collagen. I've used other, cheaper brands before and felt nauseous after taking them.
Share your favorite beauty remedies with us below!