Secrets to Natural Radiant Beauty:

Rejuvenating Skin Care Recipes

Disclaimer
The recipes in this book are for informational use only Nothing in this book is a substitute for medical advice !f you have a skin condition or health problem" consult your personal health care provider

Table of Contents
!ntroduction # Chapter $ The %roblem: Dangers of Commercial Skin Care & Chapter ' The Solution: Create (our )*n Natural Skin Care Treatments $& Chapter + The ,acial Recipes: -asks" Scrubs and -ore '& Chapter # The -oisturi.ing Recipes #/ Chapter / The Recipes ,or 0nder (our 1yes // Chapter 2 The Recipes: -assage )ils 2/ 3ppendi4: 5lossary of Skin Care Terms 6+ References

7/

!ntroduction

ave you noticed?

You continue to use cosmetics products promising you an acnefree life, anti-aging results, smoother glowing skin.

But the more you use these products, the fewer results you see. If you're like millions of other people, you may begin to feel they only pro e to be a waste of both your money !the best of these products come with a hefty price tag"# and your time.

$here ery well could be something else that is being %wasted,% too your ery health. It's true"

Every year, Americans buy nearly 50 billion dollars worth of cosmetic products.

$he cosmetic and skin care industry is definitely a huge market. It includes the soaps and gels we use e ery day, as well as acne treatments, anti-aging skin products, deodorants, moisturi&ers well, you get the point.

'rom the looks of things, there appears to be no end in sight when it comes to market growth. (ach and e ery year, thousands of new treatments are created, tested, and brought to market.

But if they aren't impro ing your skin, reducing your acne symptoms, smoothing

your skin, reducing or lessening the effects of wrinkles then what)s the use of your skin care rituals?

( en the so-called natural and organic cosmetics seem to carry potential dangers -- despite the soothing assurances of commercials and manufacturers.

)ur largest organ: Barrier or sponge9

*ne of our misconceptions of our skin -- our body's largest organ -- is in the fundamental function it plays. +any of us !including me for the longest time# think of it as a barrier.

It keeps en ironmental to,ins from entering our body. It protects us in the winter from the effects of the cold. It guards us in the summer from the ra ages of the -. rays of the sun. $his is a misconception we need to correct.

Your skin acts more like a sponge, soaking up everything it comes in contact with.

If you put cosmetics on it with less than healthy -- e en to,ic -- ingredients, guess what happens?

/ll the potentially to,ic items soak directly into your skin and into your system. 0urely there must be a better way to make you look and feel better without putting your health on the line e eryday"

To4ic free skin care Right at your fingertips

1hat if I told you there were products a ailable that are natural, and many times organic that wouldn)t harm your skin or endanger your health?

1hat if I told you there were products you can use and be absolutely sure of the ingredients you were using?

1hat if I told you the ingredients for these outstanding skin care remedies are waiting for you right now in your ery own kitchen? /ll you need to do is gather the items and make them.

/re you cra&y, you ask? 2o, I'm not. $hey aren't difficult to create and the ad antages of these treatments are huge"

1hat could homemade skin care recipes do for you? 3onsider these results, the ery same ones that you see ad ertised on tele ision and in maga&ine pages4

Hasten collagen production mprove your skin!s moisture content "oost your skin!s ability to protect itself from environmental to#ins $educe the effects of free radicals that can damage your skin Encourage and stimulate the renewal and repair of your skin cells

If you belie e you're incapable of making such therapies, think again. It doesn't take much time, it doesn't take any fancy e5uipment, and it doesn't take much space. You could e en get started today"

:here should you start9 :ith the recipes in this book;

*kay, you)re considering the health ad antages and thinking about the relati e

ease of making your own skin care products. But even if its true, where should I start? I ha e no directions or recipes for such products.

$hat's where this book comes in. 2ow you do. $his book is a compendium of some of the easiest and most effecti e skin care therapies around. $hey are easy to create and they all come with years of pro en use. +any of these formulas ha e been handed down for generations from grandmother to mother to daughter.

+any of these recipes were created by professional herbalists who studied for years and put their wisdom to use de ising the most effecti e remedies.

Imagine pulling honey and milk out of your kitchen cabinet, perhaps adding a smidgen of one or two other ingredients, and making a moisturi&er that makes your skin radiantly beautiful and healthy.

$hat's what this book comes down to. It pro ides you with starter recipes for facial scrubs, moisturi&ers, and more" I say starter recipes because once you become e,perienced in creating these easy treatments, you'll e,periment to find the perfect proportions for your personal skin type.

/s well you should. $he number one ad antage of making your own therapies is so your skin can recei e the optimum beneficial effects possible.

-ore than just 3 recipe book;

But this book is more than that" 3hapter 6 discusses %he &roblem4 the inherent dangers of the modern cosmetics industry. I pro ide you with only a handful of potentially dangerous and to,ic ingredients included in almost e ery commercially a ailable treatment. 0ome of these items are e en found in products proudly proclaiming their naturalness and their organic nature.

1ith a little more research of your own, you can disco er e en more dangers, deceits, and damages you can e,pect from these products.

In 3hapter 7, I present you with %he 'olution4 the inherent ad antages of creating your own recipes, therapies, and treatments. I' e included directions for making facial scrubs and masks, moisturi&ers, under eye treatments, and e en soothing massage oils.

+any of these re5uire only the items you probably ha e in your kitchen cabinets right now. 0ome of these treatments use natural herbs. If you grow an herb garden, you may be lucky enough to ha e these herbs right outside your kitchen door. If not, don't worry. 'resh herbs !which are highly recommended# can be found at local herbal shops and many health food stores.

But think about this. If you intend to create these treatments for the long term, you may want to consider growing your own herbs. You can start small with a windowsill garden. $hen you can always e,pand to a small outside garden. But that's for later down the road.

8ight now, let's get started by arming you with ital information about the dangers of the state of the modern /merican cosmetics industry. $hen we'll talk about the ease and ad antages of creating your own skin care items"

'ollow me to 3hapter 6. $ogether we'll disco er some of the dirty little secrets to the cosmetics industry and its potential dangers to you and your family"

Chapter $
The %roblem: Dangers of Commercial Skin Care %roducts

"eauty may be only skin deep, but the items you use to make yourself beautiful soak into your skin creating potential (( and deadly serious (( health care problems. )learly more than beauty is at stake here.

ere<s a 5uick anatomy 5ui&

1hat is the largest organ in your body? Belie e it or not, it's your skin. Yep" It's definitely considered an organ, ranking right up there with your li er, kidneys, and other organs ital to maintaining your health.

9id you e er really iew your skin -- all 7: s5uare feet of it, gi e or take some -from that perspecti e? /s one of the ma;or lines of defense against infection? 1ell, it is. In fact, your skin is the ma;or line of defense.

If you thought about your skin as protection before now, you may ha e en isioned it as a barrier. But that's not really an accurate perspecti e.

Your skin acts more like a sponge, indiscriminately soaking up and transferring whate er you put on it. 1hen it comes to commercial skin care products, this usually means %foreign substances.% /t least, that)s how your body iews them.

<ealthy skin is far more important than we reali&e. But yet few of us pay much notice to the commercial products we use to cleanse and moisturi&e with.

/ccording to some health e,perts, our skin is attacked and stressed e ery day, barraged by the myriad of substances we use to clean and help it to look healthy. +ost of which is performed in the name of beauty.

*f course, there's nothing wrong with stri ing to look as attracti e as you can. But at what price are we, as a society, paying for this 5uest for beauty and youthfulness?

-ore than beauty !s at stake;

/s it turns out, the price could ery well be our health. $hat's right" 3onsider this4 we're putting substances on our skin that we would ne er dream of eating. !2ot knowingly, at least"#

/re you aware that the -.0. 'ederal 9rug /dministration !'9/# has a list that contains some 6:,::: cosmetic and skin care ingredients that you can find right now in your bathroom? You take for granted that they' e safe.

But more than a whopping =:> of them ha e ne er been tested for safety. 2ope. 2ot by the '9/. 2ot by any other publically accountable institution.

<mm. +akes you think, doesn't it?

The 1uropean 0nion 3nd cosmetics

By contrast, the (uropean -nion has already banned more than 6,::: ingredients used in personal and skin care products. Yes, 6,:::"

<ow many ingredients has the '9/ banned? *nly 6:" ?ust a one hundredth of those that (urope has found to be risky.

But the (uropean organi&ation is ;ust beginning. It's still looking into potentially dangerous, damaging, and downright deadly ingredients.

If the substance is e en suspected of causing cancer, birth defects, or other health problems, officials o erseas challenge the ingredients' safety.

Commercial skin care products: !mproving or damaging9

$here's a bitter irony to all of this. It)s a pro en fact that the greater 5uantity of synthetic, damaging ingredients in a skin care product -- from soap to moisturi&ers -- the less effecti e they actually are.

$he greater the amount of non-natural substances in your bath scrub, for e,ample, the less likely it is that it's actually pro iding you with cleaner, clearer, and healthier skin. /nd if you're looking for that radiant glow, well, you can ;ust forget about it.

<a e you e er indulged yourself to a isit to an elite beauty spa? If you ha e,

you' e probably noticed that these establishments rarely -- if e er -- put any of the commercial, synthetic-based products on your skin. Instead, they often ha e their own pri ate-label products. *r products they create especially for use at the spa.

1hat are these skin care products made of? You guessed it" /ll natural ingredients" 2ow that sets your mind thinking.

:hat makes Synthetic skin care So dangerous9

2ow that I' e got you asking 5uestions, you're no doubt wondering e,actly what it is that makes commercial synthetic skin care products so damaging. 1hat do they possess that poses a health risk to us?

'irst, I'll gi e you a 5uick o er iew of a few of the ways ordinary, seemingly harmless products are damaging your skin and your health. $hen I'll dig into some of the more to,ic specific ingredients.

Think acne medication 8armless9 Think again;

/nd again. +any acne treatments actually make your skin e,tremely sensiti e to the sun. $his in turn may cause complications with sun o ere,posure while you or your teen is wearing them.

0tudies ha e e en showed these chemicals are present in the biopsies of breast cancer patients. $his left many scientists wondering if the parabens actually caused the breast cancer. *f course, I need to add there is no proof of this"

$he problems e,tend e en to gels and soaps -- items we depend on e eryday to clean us. +any commercial soaps contain something called sodium laureth sulfate. You' e probably ne er heard of it. But, nonetheless, it's irritating to your skin.

+any of these soaps also contain a substance called parabens !you may be more familiar with this# that actually penetrate the skin. 8emember, we said the skin acts more like a sponge than a barrier" *nce parabens get into your body, they stay there and slowly damage your system.

/ctually, parabens are a chemical preser ati e in addition to being a fairly common additi e in cosmetics and skin care products. $hey)re also !belie e it or not"# found as a food additi e as well"

%arabens: ,ound in more than $+"=== products;

$he -.0. 'ood and 9rug /dministration !'9/# estimates that this class of chemical is the most widely used family of preser ati es in cosmetics today.

t!s found in some *+,,00 skin care ingredients" /nd if you think that the products you're using are parabens-free because they're labeled %organic,% think again.

Yep" @arabens ha e raised their ugly faces e en here. /ll you need to confirm this is to read the labels on your shampoos, your makeup and hair care products, your moisturi&ers, and e en your sha ing products.

1hen you read the labels, though, be igilant for prefi,es before this word, especially methyl, propyl, butyl and ethyl. %hey are all types of parabens.

?ust how dangerous could this chemical preser ati e be? @arabens are linked to a greater risk of breast cancer in women. $hese substances soak into your skin, lingering in your body and apparently setting into the breast tissue, according to the 1omen's 3ommunity 3ancer @ro;ect of 3ambridge, +assachusetts.

*nce they)re in your system, parabens begin what's called %estrogenic acti ity.% $his means they mimic the hormone estrogen. /nd estrogen is belie ed to stimulate breast cancer acti ity.

In a nutshell, the parabens actually fool your body into thinking there's more estrogen present than there really is. In the process, they raises your risk of breast cancer.

Sulfates: The most dangerous Substances you<ve never heard of

You) e probably heard of them, but I'm sure you ne er thought that this family of chemicals could ha e a ery real effect on your health.

/s the research unfolds, sulfates could be related to such health conditions as premature baldness, the formation of cataracts, and contact dermatitis. 0ome research e en shows that sulfates may be e en responsible for the de elopment of certain en ironmental cancers.

2ow these chemical additi es are hitting home -- and hard"

0cientists seem to agree. $he most dangerous of this family is called sodium lauryl sufate. It's a detergent that is found in a whopping =: percent all shampoos on the market today.

You may also see it listed as sodium docecyl or sodium laureth sulfate. ?ust one serious concern about this chemical is in its apparent association with the de elopment of cancer.

In this case, the sulfate reacts with the ingredients in the cosmetic product, forming a potent carcinogen. ( en if you're ;ust shampooing with a product that contains this ingredient, it can be absorbed into your body.

Ironically, the use of skin care treatments with sulfates often end up irritating the skin you're trying to maintain and sa e. $his occurs, according to researchers, because the sulfate can literally knock down your skin's barrier.

2ot only that, but it also has the ability to enhance allergic responses to other to,ins you may ha e, as well as damaging and altering skin cells. $he end result? / roughness that ends up in a se ere modification of the skin.

The alternative: Buy natural brands9

$hat)s your first instinct. 2ormally, it's a great reaction. But there's only one problem4 e en brands labeled as %natural% may ha e this dangerous substance lurking inside. 0o there's no two ways about it. You ha e to become a igilant label reader -- or dare I suggest it? -- make your own skin care treatments"

:hat the heck is %ropylene 5lycol9

In a word4 trouble. It's another ingredient that is both ubi5uitous and dangerous. +ore dangerous than you may guess. /nd ;ust as with the sodium lauryl sulfate, there's an irony to this chemical as well.

Aook at ;ust about any skin care treatment at your local drug store or grocery store. You'll see propylene glycol listed on a myriad of types of products4 beauty creams, cleansers, makeup, and more"

It might gi e you a start to think that this same substance is also used in other industries as well. t!s an ingredient in anti(free-e, airplane de(icer, and brake fluid. <mm.

<ere's the kicker. ( ery chemical comes with information that's commonly called a .aterial 'afety /ata 'heet, or .'/'. And one of the cautions listed on this sheet for propylene glycol is simply0 1Avoid skin contact.1 <mm. !/gain"#

(ou<ve got to be kidding9; 8o* could this be9

*kay, you say, how could a small amount of this chemical possibly affect my health? You) e probably been using this %small amount% of the chemical for most of your life. It was first added to many cosmetics more than +0 years ago2

$his substance has been linked with not only contact dermatitis, but kidney damage and li er abnormalities in the latest research.

2ot only that, but propylene glycol has been linked to triggering sei&ures in epileptics and to cardio-respiratory arrest.

@ropylene glycol is also associated with premature aging of the skin. 0cientists estimate that for e ery decade you actually use this product, your skin is aging 6B years" $he ery products you're depending on to help retain your youthful skin are causing it to age beyond its years.

)nly t*o out of :ho really kno*s9

$hese are only two substances that are linked with ad erse health conditions. $here are many more out there. 'ar too many to relate in this format. But, I' e listed another eight more dangerous ingredients you may want to be alert to. $hese are found in nearly all skin care treatments and other cosmetics.

*. &hthalates.

-npronounceable? 2ot 5uite, they're pronounced as $</Y-lates. !Yes, both the initial %@% and %h% are silent"# $his is a group of synthetic chemicals use to stabili&e fragrances. $hese chemicals are also said to make plastic more pliable.

$his substance has been linked to kidney damage, problems with the li er, and problems with the lungs. $he sad statistic is that appro,imately C percent of women between the ages of 7: and D: carry more than DC times more phthalates in their bodies than pre ious thought. $his statistic comes directly from the -.0. 3enters for 9isease 3ontrol and @re ention !393#

,. 3reas.

$hese are preser ati es and there are a ariety of them lurking in your skin care treatments. %hey come in the form of dia-olidninyl urea and imida-olidinyl urea. $hese preser ati es can potentially release formaldehyde in small amounts. 8esearchers cite ureas as the ma;or cause of contact dermatitis.

But more than that, high concentrations can produce ;oint pain, depression, headaches, chest pains, and ear infections as well as chronic fatigue, di&&iness, and sleep problems. 0ome health e,perts estimate that up to 7: percent of indi iduals e,posed to ureas e,perience some type of allergic reaction.

+. &etrochemicals

$hese, as the name implies, are deri ati es of crude oil. %hey can come labeled as petrolatum, mineral oil, and paraffin. $hese petrochemicals basically suffocate your skin, not allowing it to breathe. $he effect is the clogging

of your pores.

4. .EA5/EA5%EA

$hese amines, or ammonia compounds, sound harmless in their abbre iated forms. But they're nothing of the sort. *nce in your body, they ha e the potential to create harmful nitrosamines. $his occurs when they meet a nitrate. $hese ingredients are used as foaming agents and synthetic stabili&ers. $hey are also used to ad;ust the p< le el of many cosmetics.

0o ;ust how dangerous are they? %hey not only cause allergic reactions, and eye irritation, but they can also dry out your hair and skin . I'm sure the irony isn't lost on you. @roducts you buy to soften your skin only end up drying it out more"

5. )hemical sunscreens

1hen you read the label on your cosmetics, you'll see these listed as o#yben-one and octylmetho#ycinnamate. $hey're known to disturb your body!s endocrine activity -- the functioning of your hormones"

6. 7uats

Yes, it is a strange name. $he name would e en be funny, if the substances weren't so dangerous to your body" E#amples of 8uats include ben-alkonium choloride, steardimonium chloride, cetrimonium bromide, and cetrimononium. 1hew" $hese substances are definitely a mouthful. $hey are added to cosmetics to pre ent static.

$he chemical compounds can cause a spectrum of health problems, from skin and respiratory irritation to severe caustic burns on your skin and gastrointestinal lining.

9. Antibacterial compounds

$hese compounds include triclosan and chlorphenesin. $here are two ma;or problems with them. 'irst, they don't break down in the en ironment. /nd second, continued use of these are known to contribute to the growing resistance of bacteria to treatment with antibiotics.

:. )oal tar

3oal tar? ( en the name sounds bad" 1hy in the world would they be in cosmetics. $hey're needed in commercial cosmetics to help create synthetic colors. 3oal tar contains hea y metal salts that can be deposited into your skin. $he result can be skin sensiti ity and irritation. 'tudies on animals show that they can be carcinogenic, or cancer(causing.

You probably won't see the word coal tar on the label of your store-bought skin care product, but you'll know, without a doubt, it!s included if you find 1;/<)1 or 1/<)1 followed by a color and a number on the label2

Yes, you'll e en find some of these ingredients in so-called natural products. 0o what are you supposed to do? 1hy not make your own skin care products. It's much easier than you think.

Banish all doubt about safety;

1hen you create your recipes you also ha e the peace of mind of knowing full well what your treatment is made from. 2e er thought about? 8ead on to the ne,t chapter to learn a little more about the process.

Chapter '
The Solution: Create (our )*n Natural Skin Care Treatments

How do you avoid the potentially dangerous products= "y making your own, of course. t!s easier than you think. You may even have many of the necessary ingredients already in your kitchen2

o how do you a

oid all these potentially dangerous synthetic

ingredients? You could become a diligent label reader, but you'd no doubt find there are few products on the shel es today that are fully natural -- despite the ad ertising hype surrounding them.

+ore people than e er before are sol ing this problem by creating their own skin care products. Yes" @erhaps you' e ne er considered this before. You're probably thinking right now that you're no chemist.

/ctually, you don't need a doctorate in chemistry to create your own natural skin care treatments. /fter all, you're not going to use any of those chemicals that commercial manufacturers use.

2o, when you create your own recipes, you use nothing but natural ingredients.

/nd when we say natural, we mean it. In fact, many of the ingredients in these recipes can be found right now on your kitchen shel es.

:hy make your )*n skin care treatments9

$here are really two reasons for you to consider creating your own treatments to pamper your skin -- and belie e me, you really will feel a wondrous difference from the commercial produced items you' e been using"

'irst is the fact that the treatments, lotions, and cosmetics you buy in the store are far more dangerous to not only the health of your skin, but to your entire system.

Natural is Better than synthetic

But there's a second reason as well. /ll commercially deri ed products contain sophisticated and comple, substances that are actually beneficial to your skin. $hey include antio,idants, proteins, itamins, en&ymes as well as a host of phytochemicals.

1ell, you say, that's a good thing. 8ight? 1ell, it would be but

.when they are duplicated synthetically, as they more often than not are in

these store-bought products, they are far less effecti e than the natural ersions.

/sk any professional herbalist and he'll tell you the same thing. $he chemical ingredients in herbs actually work in harmony to create an ama&ing ability to actually re;u enate your skin. <erbal-based treatments are far more effecti e than the ones the cosmetic companies churn out.

1hen you pluck out certain substances which ha e been identified as the acti e ingredients and then create them synthetically instead of using natural ingredients, you lose 5uite a bit of the effecti eness.

$hink of it as using itamins or eating healthy. It's always better to ha e a good diet than to rely solely on itamin tablets -- especially synthetic itamins -- for your nourishment.

3n ancient art Being revived

<omemade skin care therapies are more popular than e er. But few people think about the history of such treatments. You can trace naturally made cosmetics as far back as ancient ci ili&ations. $he ancient Ereeks, for e,ample, used honey as a moisturi&er, keeping their skin soft and youthful.

But more than that, honey acts as a natural antibacterial agent. <ow cool is that?

It's belie ed that the (gyptian ruler -- and beauty -- 3leopatra routinely soaked in a rose petal and milk bath to soften her skin. By the way, scientific research has recently confirmed her wisdom. 0tudies ha e pro ed the astounding re;u enating properties of rose petals, along with rose hips.

But honey and milk aren't the only items that can soften the skin. 'or e,ample, Italians ha e been known for centuries to soften their skin with oli e oil.

5etting started !s easier than you think;

Interested in creating a few recipes of your own to see how they work? If you make one recipe, I guarantee that you'll soon be on your way to making your own personal line of products. Your skin will be healthier and more radiant than e er before. I wouldn't be surprised if friends and family comment on your %new look.%

In fact, your entire family can benefit from these ama&ing homemade recipes. $he therapies range from moisturi&ers to soaps to deodorants.

I wouldn't be surprised if you started gi ing some of your fa orite skin-care treatments to friends and family as gifts" 1ouldn't that be a uni5ue present?

5etting started !s a bree.e;

0o, ;ust how do you get started? 'irst, to make the most effecti e treatments, you'll need to use fresh ingredients. 0ince many of these therapies in ol e herbs, stock your kitchen up with fresh, potted herbs. You may e en already be growing some in your garden now. If so, that's great.

You'll also want to stock your kitchen shel es with the most popular skin care ingredients. 2ow you're ready to mi, your own skin care products.

9on't worry, you don't ha e to run out to the grocery store and buy e ery item immediately. $ake an in entory of the ingredients you already ha e, then slowly stock up on the ones you'll need in the future.

You can simply add se eral items to your grocery list on a weekly basis. 0ome of the most common items used in homemade cosmetics include4

Aspirin >Yes, Aspirin2 %he uncoated type.? )itrus fruits

/airy products Eggs Honey @atmeal @live oil 'ugar 'alt %ea bags Ainegars

In addition to these ingredients, you'd be wise to buy a funnel for your recipes -it makes the process a lot easier -- and a small colander or strainer.

You'll also want se eral small glass or plastic containers for your new treatments. /lso a small spray bottle for facial mists and a bottle for toners.

Benefits of Specific" natural ingredients

Indi idually, the specific ingredients these recipes are made with do more than merely counter the ad erse effects of synthetic contents of commercially made products. $hey pro ide your skin with itamins and minerals needed for radiant beauty and robust health.

Aet's ;ust look at a few of these items. 'rom this short re iew, you'll get a good idea of how making your own cosmetics can impro e your long-term beauty and health.

5reen Tea: -ore than just a beverage;

1e'll start with green tea. 1e all know that drinking se eral cups a day can help reduce your risk factor of de eloping many degenerati e diseases -- that is, diseases associated with the aging process.

But few of us gi e green tea much if any thought as an aid for skin care treatments. But it's true" <ere's why.

'irst, green tea contains potent antio#idants. $hese substances are known to help battle %free radicals% in your system, which are responsible for the aging process. But antio,idants contain antiseptic 5ualities, anti-inflammatory abilities, as well as the capability of fighting iral and fungal infections.

But green tea can do e en more than that as part of a homemade skin care remedy. ?ust look at the following health, beauty, and skin care benefits of green tea4

Bowers your risk of ac8uiring rheumatoid arthritis Heals minor cuts, rashes, spots, and other blemishes $educes acne &rovides a youthful appearance %reats sunburn 'lows the signs of gaining

)atmeal
*atmeal contains an abundance of itamins and minerals to nourish your skin. It also gently cleanses and heals the skin. It's a natural aid in relie ing dry skin by ad;usting your skin's natural moisture.

$his particular natural ingredient is also used in skin-care treatments as a

natural e#foliate, helping to clear dead skin cells from your body. You'll also disco er oatmeal in some facial masks. It helps to clean out your pores without irritating or drying your skin.

Banana
$he tele ision commercial tells us the banana is the perfect food. It's not ;ust for eating, though. $he same itamins that make it a potent health food also make it an ama&ing skin care tool. $he fruit contains vitamin A among other antio,idants and is rich in potassium.

You'll find plenty of recipes in this book that employ bananas as a ital ingredient. $here's good reason for that. $he inclusion of this fruit helps to soften your skin. It's also been used as an aid in clearing acne.

1ggs
'rom the ancient 3hinese to modern celebrity use, the incredible, edible egg is also an incredible skin care ingredient as well.

$he egg, as you may already be aware, contains lecithin. /mong its health benefits is the fact that it)s a natural skin emollient, which works at softening your skin. But that's ;ust a small portion of how eggs can impro e the health of your skin.

+any indi iduals ha e that disco ered facial masks using eggs are wonderful at reducing acne. $he egg also helps to firm your skin, reduce any redness and inflammation.

8oney

$his natural sweetener is sweet for your skin" It helps to maintain its natural acid mantle. In addition to containing sugar, it also is possesses necessary en&ymes and an abundance of health-gi ing itamins and minerals. It's rich in amino acids to help impro e the health of your skin.

3onsider also that honey is a natural antiseptic, which gi es it astounding healing properties. It's also an ama&ing natural cleansing agent.

6 >ital Skin Care Tips

2ow that you're considering making your own homemade skin care remedies, here are ;ust a few tips on how to use them. It's always best to get into a routine when it comes to any health issue.

It's ;ust as important that you de elop definite habits when it comes to personal skin remedies. You can start with a few of the easier ones. /s you go along, you may de elop a more specific routine that suits you better.

Homemade 'kin )are %ip C* E#foliate Every Evening

*nce you wash your face at night, e,foliate" Be sure to use a delicate scrub. If you ha en't yet made an e,foliating recipe or are temporarily out, you can easily e,foliate with ;ust sugar or oatmeal. It's as easy as that"

Homemade 'kin )are %ip C, 3se ;acial .asks

$his step many of us !including myself# are guilty of ignoring. @erhaps it's the

image tele ision shows portray of women who practice this. @erhaps we don't want to look silly in front of spouses or endure the endless kidding of our children.

1ell, ;ust forget about those possible conse5uences and employ masks anyway" It's a mar elous tool to keep your skin looking beautiful. I' e e en written one chapter dedicated to mask recipes. 0o, indulge" You deser e it"

Homemade 'kin )are %ip C+ 3se .oisturi-er and &lenty of t

I didn't learn the benefits of moisturi&er until I was older. 'ortunate are the women who start using them when they're younger. 1hy? +ostly because your skin actually craves moisturi-ers.

+any skin care e,perts recommend you use moisturi&ers at night, so they can penetrate your skin undisturbed. $hese same e,perts suggest that you %treat% your skin to applications of alpha hydro,yl acids, itamins / or 3, and then put on the moisturi&er. In this way these treatments are sure to be absorbed into your skin.

Homemade 'kin )are %ip C4 %reat Your 'kin with )are

( en though you're using natural homemade ingredients, treat your skin gently. 9on't act roughly when you clean your skin. ?ust because we call them facial scrubs, doesn't mean you should be scrubbing your skin the way you do the kitchen floor"

If you treat your skin gently, you'll decrease the odds of damaging it and ac5uiring wrinkles. 0eems like an easy thing to do considering the conse5uences.

Homemade 'kin %ip C5 &rotect Your 'kin ;rom /irect 'unlight

I'm not saying you need to shirk the sun like a ampire. But you definitely need to take precautions, especially when you sunbathe. !Yes, I know you're going to do it"# Before you enture outside, for e,ample, co er your skin with all the proper lotions.

You may also want to a oid the tanning booths. 'ar too many indi iduals get addicted to this method. $heir skin gets golden brown, yes, but it also gets dried out and it increases their chances of de eloping wrinkles. 1orse yet, it still comes with all the dangers of real sunlight, including that of skin cancer"

Homemade 'kin )are %ip C6 Eat ;resh ;oods

1hat you put into your system shows up in the health of your skin. But you probably already know that in a limited way. +any indi iduals a oid chocolate because it worsens their acne.

It should come as no surprise, then, that proper nutrition should help impro e the appearance of your skin. $his tip may be one of the most important suggestions you'll e er recei e"

Homemade 'kin %ip C9 /rink &lenty of Dater

Feeping your skin hydrated goes a long way toward maintaining healthy skin. You' e already been told that it impro es the functioning of all of your cells and your organs. 1ell? Your skin is your largest organ, so this only makes sense"

+ost health e,perts say you need to drink a minimum of eight to 6: glasses of water a day. If you can do this, then you're doing your skin a big fa or"

2ow that you're armed with the benefits of natural skin care, you're ready to take the plunge. You're ready and e en eager to make your own treatments. You'll disco er it)s e,citing. But more than that, you'll notice an immense impro ement in your skin -- and your o erall health.

$he following chapter pro ides you with plenty of starter recipes for facial scrubs and masks. But don't limit yourself to these recipes. Before long, you'll be ad;usting these to suit your specific skin characteristics. You may be e en creating recipes of your own"

Chapter +
The ,acial Recipes: -asks" Scrubs" and -ore
Eow we get to the portion of the book you!ve been waiting for. .aybe you!ve even Fumped ahead. Here are some easy, healthy homemade skin care recipes for masks and scrubs. EnFoy2

or the most part, the following recipes are short and concise.

$hey

contain only a ery few ingredients. 0imilarly, the instructions for creating them are simple. /nd as an added bonus, many of them use ingredients you may already ha e around the house.

You simply gather your ingredients, combine them and poof! You ha e natural homemade skin care products that aren't going to irritate, damage, or destroy your health. /ma&ing"

8ecipes for facial scrubs pro ide you with a perfect opportunity to e,foliate and condition your skin with ;ust a small effort and practically no e,pense.

1hile the term exfoliation may sound like it's beyond your capacity to carry out at home, you'll find the concept is ama&ingly simple. $here's two ways you can do it. $he first is achie ed through what many call a mechanical means, as in a

scrub. *r it may be achie ed through a chemically based method by using alpha hydro,yl acid !/</# or beta hydro,yl acid !B</#.

$he aim of e,foliation is two-fold. 'irst, the process aids in the removal of old, dead skin cells. $hese linger on the surface of your skin. 0econd, it actually stimulates the creation of new collagen.

14foliation9 :hat<s the big deal9

You'd be surprised by the importance of the e,foliation process in your skin care regimen. t helps the skin to become softer and more supple. It)s also ital in helping to decrease those fine lines and wrinkles.

(,foliating regularly can actually firm your sagging skin and e en out a mottled skin tone. !I knew you'd be impressed"#

+any of the recipes in this book, you'll soon disco er, use that so-called mechanical means to create an e,foliating effect. $hat's the reason such ingredients like salt, sugar, or e en aspirin are used.

0ome of the recipes use a chemical approach. Before you start wondering if I threw the natural part of this book out the window, rest assured. 2o harsh chemicals are called for.

You can achie e a %chemical% e,foliate simply by using freshly s5uee&ed citrus fruit ;uice. $he abrasi e nature of the ;uice is ama&ingly effecti e at dislodging your dead skin cells.

/nother important aspect of facial scrubs is their mar elous ability to help to clean pores. $his is important if you're attempting to a oid or reduce outbreaks of acne and the recurrence of blackheads.

0sing scrubs %roperly

*h yes, there's a certain routine in applying facial scrubs to your face in order to recei e their ma,imum beneficial effects. Before you place the recipe on your face, ensure that you' e already applied a warm face cloth to your skin first. $hen, using gentle circular motions, massage the scrub lightly onto your skin. /fter that, rinse and dry. I guarantee you'll feel an incredible difference in your skin.

2ow, here a few recipes - not only for facial scrubs, but other skin care treatments for your face as well. By the way, don't be afraid to alter these instructions. You may find you need a little less of one ingredient and a little more of another to create the perfect therapy for your skin. If that's the case, then do it"

$hat's another great benefit of making your own skin care treatments. /nd remember4 /lways ha e fun"

3spirin?Citrus ,acial Scrub

You'll lo e this recipe. It's ersatile. You

can adapt it to suit your personal skin type.

ngredients0

C to 6: plain aspirin4 generic brand is fine, non-coated 6 to 7 tsp freshly s5uee&ed citrus fruit4 lemon, lime, orange, or grapefruit

nstructions0

3rush aspirin tablets into a fine powder. You'll find a small coffee grinder is perfect -- especially if you're making a large amount of this.

/dd ;uice one teaspoon at a time to crushed aspirin. +i, well. -se this recipe before you cleanse and tone your face in the morning.

8oney?3lmond Scrub
ngredients0

6 $bsp honey 7 tsp almonds G orange 6 mint leaf

nstructions0

'inely grind almonds in small food processor or coffee grinder. 'inely chop mint. 05uee&e ;uice from orange. +i, these, along with honey together.

-se as facial scrub, rinsing well with warm water. 0tore unused portion for up to a week in your refrigerator.

3cne Scrub
ngredients0

6 $bsp (psom salts 6 tsp sage lea es 7 tsp fresh thyme 6HI cup mango, ripened

nstructions0

8emo e sage from stem. @eel and chop mango. 3ombine all ingredients in a food processor. @ulse until you ha e a paste.

-se to gently scrub your face. /fterward, rinse well using warm water.

@avender Scrub
Lavender is legendary in healing the body. It also carries a delightful fragrance. ou!ll feel as if you!re pa"pering yourself when you use this therapy!

ngredients0

6HI cup la ender petals

7 $bsp brown sugar, dark 7 $bsp grapefruit ;uice, fresh

nstructions0

'inely chop la ender. 05uee&e the grapefruit ;uice to attain 6HI cup. +i, both ingredients together with brown sugar until you ac5uire a smooth mi,ture.

Eentle scrub your face, rinsing well afterward.

No?,rills Cleansing Scrub

ngredients0

C to I tablets of aspirin !no coating, generic brand works well# 6 tsp itamin water

3rush aspirin creating a fine powder. /dding only se eral drops at a time, add grapefruit ;uice. +i, this into a thin paste.

Eently massage this mi,ture into your face, rinsing well afterward.

3ma.ing )live )il Sea Salt Scrub

ngredients0

7 $bsp coarse sea salt 6 $bsp honey *li e *il !as much as needed#

nstructions0

+i, salt and honey together. 0lowly add oil, one drop at time. 0tir well. You should get a thick paste.

-se this to scrub your skin. $his rinse well with warm water.

Softer Skin Scrub

#rust "e, you!ll love this recipe. $orn"eal, believe it or not, has been an ingredient in ho"e"ade skin recipes for generations. It receives its best results when used with dairy products or fresh citrus fruit. ou!re in for a real treat!

ngredients0

7 $bsp cornmeal 7 to B tsp buttermilk 6 tsp coconut oil

nstructions0

3ombine all ingredients to form a thick paste. !Yep" $hat's all there is to this one. (asy, isn't it?#

Eently massage into your skin. 8inse well afterward using warm water.

Simple 8erbal Scrub

ngredients0

6 tsp oregano, fresh 7 tsp parsley fresh 6 tsp mar;oram, fresh 7 $bsp lime ;uice, freshly s5uee&ed

nstructions0

-sing a food processor, pulse herbs and ;uice together. $he mi,ture should not only be mi,ed well, but the herbs should be finely chopped.

-se this mi,ture to gently scrub your skin. 8inse afterward with warm water.

5rape ,acial Scrub

#his recipe works as an effective exfoliate due to the presence of the grapes. %rapes contain a substance called tartaric acid. #his is a natural for" of alpha hydroxyl acid, which we!ve already "entioned as a &che"ical& exfoliate.

ngredients0

J cup cornmeal 6 $bsp ginger root

9ash of light cream C grapes

nstructions0

'inely grate the ginger. 3ombine all ingredients in food processor. @ulse until they are well mi,ed.

Eently massage mi,ture into skin. 8inse well afterwards with warm water.

@ime Scrub
ngredients0

6HI cup rolled oats 6 lime 7 $bsp honey

nstructions0

Erate the rind of the lime, putting it into a small bowl. 05uee&e all the ;uice from fruit into the same bowl. 3ombine this with oats and honey. +i, well together.

Eently cleanse your skin with it, rinsing well after with warm water.

!ndulge yourself :ith an herbal facial steam

<a e you e er e,perienced the decadent delight of an herbal facial steam? If you ha en't, now is the perfect time to start. <ere's all you need to do.

$o create a facial steam, place two to three 5uarts of water in a large pot. Bring this to a boil. $oss in the following ingredients !as you become addicteduhm "ore fa"iliar with this process, you'll ad;ust and create your own combinations#4

B parts comfrey leaf 7 parts calendula 6 part raspberry leaf 6 part sage J part rosemary

3ombine these, then place a large handful of them in the heated water. 3o er this and allow it to simmer for se eral minutes. 8emo e the pot from the heat source. @lace it on a heatproof surface at a height you can sit and place your face o er the pot.

$aking a towel, lean o er the pot and drape the towel o er your head and pot. In this way, you'll be capturing the steaming herbal water.

-se caution because it will get ery hot under there. You can easily ad;ust the heat by simply raising or lowering your head. /nother method you can use is to lift a corner of the towel slightly to allow some cool air to enter.

9on't be afraid to emerge from underneath the pot occasionally if you need to. 0team in this way for about fi e to eight minutes.

(es" you can make (our o*n facial masks;

*f course you can create your own facial masks using simple e eryday ingredients. It's ;ust as easy as making your facial scrubs.

<ere are ;ust a few masks. 9on't be afraid, as you go along, to tweak these recipes to bring out the best in your skin. /fter all, e ery person is an indi idual with specific needs.

3 -ask for 3ny Skin Type

ngredients0

6 $bsp honey, preferably raw B drops la ender essential oil

nstructions0

+i, the two ingredients together well. 9ampen your face with warm water, smooth the mi,ture on your face. Aea e this on for about 6C minutes. 8inse off with warm water.

I told you it was easy"

8oney and Banana -ask

#his facial "ask is especially beneficial for those of you with sensitive skin. 'n(oy its soothing benefits!

ngredients0

G banana, mashed J cup oatmeal, cooked with milk 6 egg G $bsp honey, raw if possible

nstructions0

+i, the four ingredients together. -sing slow, circular motions, massage onto your face. Aea e it there for appro,imately 6C minutes, then rinse it off with tepid water.

Soothing Carrot -ask

es, carrots! If you!ve got oily skin, you!ll want to definitely test this recipe. ou!ll be a"a)ed at its effectiveness and you!ll love the way it pa"pers your skin.

ngredients0

7 to B carrots DG $bsp honey, raw if possible

nstructions0

3ook the carrots. +ash them. +i, the carrot with the honey. 8efrigerate this mi,ture of about 6: minutes.

Eently apply the mi,ture to your skin. Aea e it on for about 6: minutes. $hen, gently rinse with cool water.

Refreshing %apaya -ask

#his "ask is "ade especially for individuals with oily skin. But "ore than that, this recipe is a great tool to help reduce the aging process of your skin. It!ll help dry your skin, while refreshing it at the sa"e ti"e!

ngredients0

6HB cup cocoa B $bsp hea y cream 6HB cup papaya, ripe

J cup honey, raw if possible B tsp oatmeal powder

nstructions0

+i, all the ingredients together well.

/pply to your face. Aea e it on appro,imately 6: minutes. $hen rinse it off with warm water.

The 3ma.ing 3pple -ask

*h, yes! + facial "ask "ade with apples. +nd why not? ou already know how incredibly healthy apples are. It!s only sensible this delicious fruit holds the sa"e health benefits for your skin.

ngredients0

6 apple, cored and 5uartered 7 $bsp honey, raw if possible

nstructions0

@ut the apples in a food processor. 3hop them. /dd the honey. 8efrigerate this mi,ture for about 6: minutes.

Eently pat this onto your skin using a light tapping motion. 9o this until the honey feels tacky. Aea e this on your face for about B: minutes. 8inse.

The 3ma.ing Banana -ask

ngredients0

6 egg yolk 7 tsp almond oil 6 ripe banana

nstructions0

3ombine all ingredients in a bowl. 3rush this, using a fork, until it ac5uires a paste-like 5uality.

/pply this to your face. Aea e it on for 7: minutes. 8emo e it with cool water. @at your face dry.

,acial Toner Recipes

1hy use a toner? $oners help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on your face. 0o if you're at the age when their presence make your cringe, then gi e toners a try.

$he same toners can also help reduce the presence of acne. 1ho knew?

Before you start in on these recipes, here are ;ust a few tips on how to apply toners properly.

Your skin should always be cleansed before applying a toner. 2ot only that, but use toners in con;unction with skin masks for the best effects. It really doesn't matter the order in which you use them. You can use the toner before or after the mask.

1hen applying this skin care tool, use a cotton ball. /pply the toner in sweeping gentle motions across your face.

5reen Tea Toner

ngredients0

7 tsp, powdered green tea G cup of boiling water

nstructions

0teep the tea in boiling water for 6: minutes. /llow it to cool. $hen apply it to your face with cotton balls.

-int Toner
ngredients0

6 peppermint tea bag J cup witch ha&el 6 $bsp lemon ;uice, fresh 6 cup boiling water

nstructions0

0teep the peppermint tea in water for 6: minutes. 8emo e the tea bag and allow the tea to cool. +i, in the lemon ;uice and witch ha&el. 8efrigerate in a glass ;ar.

@avender Toner
'ach ingredient in this recipe serves a specific purpose. #he witch ha)el acts as a gentle astringent. #he apple cider vinegar aids in restoring your skin!s natural p, balance. +nd the lavender soothes your skin.

ngredients0

7HB cup witch ha&el 6HB cup apple cider inegar B or D drops la ender essential oil

nstructions0

+i, all the ingredients together. @lace in a clean bottle. 0hake the bottle well before using the toner. 0aturate a cotton ball with this mi,ture. -sing a sweeping motion, apply to your skin.

)atmeal?(ogurt Toner
ngredients0

7 $bsp oatmeal D $bsp yogurt, plain 6 $bsp lemon ;uice, fresh 6 $bsp parsley, chopped 6 tsp oli e oil

nstructions0

+i, all ingredients into a paste-like consistency.

+assage this into your skin. /llow it to soak in for C minutes. 8inse off with warm water.

@emon?8oney Toner
ngredients0

6 egg white 6 tsp lemon ;uice, fresh

6 tsp honey, dark organic if possible

nstructions0

1hisk the egg white until it begins to thicken. 0tir in honey and lemon ;uice.

/pply it to your skin, being careful not to get it too close to your eyes or lips. /llow it to sit for 6: minutes. 1ash it off with warm water. $hen splash a bit of cold water on your face.

Rosemary Toner
#he rose"ary in this recipe sti"ulates cell re"oval as well as helps to eli"inate ble"ishes. It also helps to i"prove the appearance of spider veins. #he orange is a gentle exfoliate.

ngredients0

6 orange -- use entire fruit, including peel 6 $bsp rosemary, preferably fresh 6 cup boiling water

nstructions0

Boil these ingredients for se eral minutes. /llow the mi,ture to cool. 0train. 8efrigerate.

3loe >era?Citrus Toner

ngredients0

6 small aloe era leaf -- peeled and mashed 6 tsp citrus ;uice -- lemon, lime, or orange

nstructions0

+i, these ingredients thoroughly. $hen apply the mi,ture to your skin in gentle sweeping motions. 8inse your face well.

Cucumber Toner
ngredients0

C tsp cucumber ;uice, freshly s5uee&ed 6 tsp distilled water 7 tsp mint hydrosol 7 tsp yarrow tincture 6 tsp lemon ;uice, freshly s5uee&ed

ngredients0

3ombine all the ingredients. @our the li5uid into a glass bottle. 1hen not in use, store it in refrigerator. 0hake well before using. It can be stored for up to a week.

0crubs, masks and toners are only part of a skin care routine. If you use homemade masks and scrubs but continue to buy commercially made moisturi&ers, you're defeating the purpose.

$he ne,t chapter pro ides you with some homemade recipes to moisturi&e your skin.

Chapter #
The -oisturi.ing Recipes

'kin that!s properly moisturi-ed slows signs of aging. You!ll find some familiar ingredients in these recipes, including honey and citrus. ndulge yourself in soft, hydrated skin2

oisturi.ing your skin is an important part of any skin care

regimen. It's not only ital in maintaining a youthful appearance, but it's actually good for your skin and your o erall health.

$his ital step actually protects your skin. It acts as a barrier from wrinkles and dead skin cells.

2o wonder that this specific skin care product is one of the most common o erthe-counter items sold -- not only in this country, but all o er the world.

$here are se eral reasons for this e,plosi e growth in sales. I' e already

mentioned the role moisturi&ers play as a protecti e barrier. But that's really only one of the reasons.

+oisturi&ers also increase the water content of the dermis and epidermis layers of your skin. 2ot only that, but they also help to reduce your skin's ulnerability to what is known as trans-epidermal water loss. In effect, this means that you're less likely to lose water through your skin.

But more than that, the moisturi&er you use daily also helps to rebalance the skin composition of lipids !what most of us would call fats# both inside and outside your skin's cells.

'inally, moisturi&ers also carry nutrients and other essential substances to the epidermisHdermis layers of your skin.

1hew" 1ho knew? You probably thought you were only keeping your skin soft and youthful looking. It turns out using moisturi&ers actually feeds and waters your skin.

It only makes sense that you try your hand at making your own natural moisturi&ing creams and lotions. $hat way you'll know e,actly what)s soaking into your skin"

$his chapter pro ides you with a ariety of recipes to get you started"

Basic -oisturi.ing Recipe

#his recipe is exactly as it!s labeled- it gives you a basic, no.frills crea". But it works .. and it works well. %ive it a try and you!ll see what I "ean.

ngredients0

6 cup almond oil G cup beeswa, B itamin ( capsules B drops la ender !or essential oil of your choosing#

nstructions0

+elt the beeswa, and almond oil o er low heat. 8emo e from heat, then whisk until it has cooled. *pen the itamin ( capsules. /dd their contents to the beeswa,. $hen add the essential oil.

@our this into a sterile, airtight ;ar. 0tore in a dark, cool location.

8oney?Coconut )il -oisturi.er

ngredients0

6 tsp honey 6 $bsp coconut oil 6 tsp lemon ;uice

nstructions0

+i, all the ingredients together.

$his can be used as a deep moisturi&ing treatment for dry skin. /pply it to your skin. /llow it to remain one for a minimum of B: minutes. You can e en lea e it on your skin for se eral hours, if needed, depending on the condition of your skin.

8efrigerate any unused portion. 9o not keep for more than se eral days.

5rape -oisturi.er
ngredients0

C grapes 7 tsp lemon ;uice 6 $bsp castor oil

nstructions0

3ombine all ingredients in a food processor. +i, until smooth.

/pply to your skin for at least a half hour and up to se eral hours, if necessary. 8inse your skin well with warm water. 8efrigerate any unused portion for no longer than a week.

Cucumber?3lmond -oisturi.ing @otion

ngredients0

6 small cucumber, peeled and seeded ?uice from one lime 7 $bsp almond oil

nstructions0

@lace all the ingredients in a food processor. +i, until smooth.

/pply to your skin for at least B: minutes and up to se eral hours, depending on the condition of your skin. 8efrigerate any unused portion for no longer than B days.

Cocoa Butter @otion

ngredients0

G cup cocoa butter 7 $bsp beeswa,, grated 7 tsp distilled water B $bsp sesame oil 7 $bsp coconut oil 6$bsp oli e oil

nstructions0

3ombine the beeswa, with the water. +elt o er low heat. *nce melted, add the cocoa butter. Blend well. Eradually add the coconut, sesame, and oli e oil.

@our the mi,ture into a glass ;ar. $his will thicken as it cools. /pply to your skin.

Natural 3ll?%urpose -oisturi.er

#his recipe is perfect no "atter what your skin type! If you can!t find these ingredients at your local health food store or herbal shop, you can purchase the" through the internet.

ngredients0

D $bsp egetable oil 7 $bsp lanolin

7 $bsp glycerin 6 $bsp beeswa, 6 $bsp emulsifying wa, J $bsp Bora, B $bsp water

nstructions0

+elt oil, wa,, and lanolin. $hen heat the water and bora,. 0tir in the glycerin. /dd the glycerin, bora,, and water into the melted wa, slowly. -sing a wooden spoon, stir continuously until the mi,ture is well blended. /llow it to cool.

Cocoa Butter -oisturi.er

ngredients0

G $bsp cocoa butter 7 $bsp beeswa, 7 $bsp distilled water 7 $bsp sesame oil 7 $bsp coconut oil 6 $bsp oli e oil

nstructions0

* er low heat, melt the beeswa,. +i, it with the water. /dd the cocoa butter to this and blend well. $hen add the coconut, sesame, and oli e oils. 0tir well. @our this mi,ture into an airtight ;ar. /llow it to cool.

Stra*berry @otion

7 $bsp pureed strawberries 6 $bsp of each4 3oconut oil .egetable oil *li e oil 7 drops itamin ( oil

nstructions0

@uree strawberries. 0eparately, mi, itamin and oils. 0tir well. @lace these oils with the strawberries. 0tir again. @our into an airtight ;ar.

Aasmine -oisturi.er
ngredients0

7 $bsp emulsifying wa, 7 $bsp sunflower oil 6 tsp lanolin G tsp bora, 6 tsp witch ha&el 6 G tsp glycerin I $bsp water D drops ;asmine oil

nstructions0

+elt wa,, oil, and lanolin together. <eat the water, glycerin, and bora, separately, ensuring the bora, is completely dissol ed. /dd witch ha&el to this. $hen add the water slowly to the oils, stirring constantly until the mi,ture cools.

1lderflo*er -oisturi.er
If you!re not fa"iliar with the herb elderflower, you!re in for a real treat! It!s used in "any skin washes. ,erbalists say elderflowers &refine the co"plexion/ and relieve such skin conditions as acne, ec)e"a, and psoriasis. 'ven if you don!t suffer fro" any of these skin proble"s, you!ll love how this "oisturi)er feels on your face! 'n(oy!

ngredients0

B $bsp almond oil

D $bsp elderflower blossom 6 $bsp lanolin

nstructions0

+i, all the ingredients together in a double boiler. /llow this to simmer for an hour. 0train the mi,ture. /llow to cool.

,resh 5inger -oisturi.ing @otion

ngredients0

Einger, 7-inch piece, fresh 7 tsp light sesame oil 7 tsp apricot kernel oil 7 tsp itamin ( oil G cup cocoa butter

nstructions0

@reheat o en to lowest le el possible. 'inely grate fresh ginger. You should ha e about 6HI tsp of ;uice when you s5uee&e the gratings. @lace ginger and rest of ingredients in glass container. <eat until butter melts.

3ool the mi,ture in another, clean container.

3loe >era -oisturi.er

ngredients0

6 tsp almond oil 6 tsp glycerin G cup dried rose petals 67 drops grapefruit seed e,tract 6: drops essential oil 9istilled water

nstructions0

<eat the distilled water. @our it into a ;ar, co ering the rose petals. 3lose the ;ar, allowing it to sit o ernight. $he following morning, strain this water. +i, all the other ingredients into container. 0hake well.

3vocado Beauty -oisturi.er

ngredients0

B tsp beeswa, B tsp emulsifying wa, G cup almond oil G cup a ocado oil 7 $bsp rose water

nstructions0

+elt wa,es in a double boiler. /dd the a ocado and almond oils to this. $hen add heated rosewater, slowly, one drop at a time. 0tir this continuously.

8emo e from heat. 3ontinue to stir until mi,ture is cool

Carrot?Based -oisturi.er
ngredients0

6 carrot, cooked and mashed 6 a ocado, mashed G $bsp hea y cream 6 egg, beaten 7 $bsp honey

nstructions0

3ombine all ingredients in a bowl. 0tir until the mi,ture is smooth.

/pply to your face and neck, allowing to sit for 6C minutes. 8inse with cool water.

$his is an e,cellent ariety of arious moisturi&ing recipes to get you started using natural recipes. But you should also consider using homemade skin care recipes for one of the most stubborn areas of your face4 the area under your eyes.

It's here, in fact, that using natural ingredients, a oiding harsh additi es, and pampering the area is crucial. It's actually one of the most delicate and sensiti e areas of your skin.

8eady to gi e natural under-the-eye treatments a try? 'ollow me to the ne,t chapter. I'll make sure you get started on the right foot"

Chapter /
The Recipes for 0nder (our 1yes
"elieve it or not, the area under your eyes is the most sensitive part of your face. How are you treating it= Dhen you use these recipes, you can be sure you!re being kind to this delicate area.

t may be the most re

ealing part of your face4 that area under your eyes. It

seems the moment we're stressed, go without sleep, or encounter bad weather, the under-the-eyes area shouts it to the world.

/s if to add in;ury to insult, there's not a makeup on the market today that can totally hides the problem. Basically, you're a walking billboard e,claiming your e,haustion, allergy problem, or stressed state.

You may refer to this problem as %bags.% 0ome indi iduals complain of puffiness. 8egardless of what you call it, this skin care problem is troublesome to many people.

:arning: 14tremely sensitive skin;

$hat's the caution label that should come with the care and feeding of your under-the-eye area. Indeed, the skin in this area is ery sensiti e. $hat's all the more reason to create your own recipes for this condition. 1hy put your eyes at risk with a host of preser ati es, additi es, and potentially dangerous ingredients?

$he following recipes are not only natural, but they work better than most -- if not all -- commercially bought therapies. You ha e a ariety to choose from. You may decide to alternate using specific ones. *r you may decide you ha e a downright fa orite and refuse to use anything else"

/nd, of course, feel free to ad;ust these recipes to suit your specific skin care needs"

Before we dig into the recipes, though, here are some health tips you can use to help reduce that puffiness.

"anish the &uffiness %ip C* /rink water2

*h, I know. You' e heard this before, not only in this book, but from countless other authors and possibly your own doctor. You may think it's a clichK or ;ust an old wife's tale, but it's an established fact.

2ow you ha e an additional reason to drink plenty of water4 to help reduce those unsightly bags under eyes" 3onsumption of water aids in the flushing out of to,ins. $his fact alone keeps your skin healthy"

"anish the &uffiness %ip C, %he .agic of Aitamin E

Belie e it or not, this unassuming itamin may be your best friend in your attempt to banish the puffiness. 0imply apply itamin ( oil in this area. -se of itamin ( in this way is recommended by many doctors to hasten healing of the skin.

"anish the &uffiness %ip C+ )old )ompress to the $escue

0ometimes the simplest remedies are . . . well, right before our eyes. /nd this is certainly one of them. 1hen you wake up in the morning, apply a cold compress to your eyes. 0ome e,perts say this should be done while you're standing. !You may think that lying would be more appropriate. 'ooled you"#

$his compress encourages and stimulates drainage. $hat's why it's recommended you stand while you do this. It actually ensures that fluid buildup has someplace to go.

"anish the &uffiness %ip C4 Apply )old 'poons2

1hat? 0ure, you' e heard of applying slices of cucumber or tea bags under your eyes, but you probably ne er thought about applying cold spoons. !/nd I can't really blame you there"# Yes, e en before you ask, I'm talking about ordinary tableware. Eo figure"

/ccording to some skin care e,perts, it's a ery effecti e way to ease those tired eyes. Before you go to sleep at night, place two spoons in the refrigerator. $hen, when you wake up in the morning, hold these spoons to your eyes. You don't need to keep the sil erware there long. / few moments will do.

$he reason this works so effecti ely is because the metal of the spoons is actually colder than a cold compress. You may ha e trouble doing this e eryday merely because the spoons are so cold on your eyes. But if you can stand it, this method is great"

"anish the &uffiness %ip C5 %ap %hose "ags Away2

$his remedy sounds too easy to be true, doesn't it? But, it's pro en to be a reliable way to help reduce that irritating puffiness. -pon wakening in the morning, simply lightly tap the skin under eyes. /nd I do mean lightly. 8emember that this area is among the most delicate areas of your skin. 0o as much as you may be irritated or angry with it, treat it with kindness.

0tart with the inside corner of your eyes and work to the outside. You'll disco er that it's a 5uick fi, when you're pressed for time"

"anish the &uffiness %ip C6 /on!t 'kimp on the 'leep2

/nother sound piece of ad ice that's easier said than done. 1e' e all had those nights. +aybe because it was due to working late, or an early morning meeting.

0ometimes it's ;ust tough to fall asleep you're running the day's e ents through your mind and thinking about tomorrow. 1hen you replay the day and worry about the future, it's hard to sleep.

It's a fact, though. If you can sleep the ideal hours for your body !most of us need I hours, e en though we deny it"# then this is one of the healthiest and most effecti e methods of banishing puffy eyes"

1hen you practice e en one of the abo e tips combined with the recipes below, you'll be sure to banish the puffiness"

"anish the &uffiness %ip C9 'tep Away from the 'alt 'haker2
Eo lightly on the salt. 1hen you eat salt -- especially too much -- your body tends to retain water. I'm sure you already knew this. But you probably ne er reali&ed that the water retention could be accumulating under your eyes"

You don't shake that salt shaker that much, you say. 1hat about the processed and packaged foods you eat? You'd be ama&ed at the amount of sodium in these meals. /nd if you eat fro&en meals of any kind, you'll also be contributing unwittingly to your salt consumption"

5reen Tea 1ye Treatment

ngredients0

J cup potato, peeled 6 $bsp green tea lea es 6 tsp sesame oil

nstructions0

@lace all ingredients in a food processor. +i, until the ingredients are smooth. 8efrigerate any unused portion.

/pply a thin layer under your eyes before you retire for the e ening.

Soothing Chamomile 1ye @otion

ngredients0

6 o& ?o;oba oil C drops chamomile essential oil C drops rose essential oil

nstructions4

3ombine both essential oils with the ?o;oba oil. +i, well. 0tore in a one ounce glass bottle with dropper top.

You only need one drop of this treatment. /pply it to your finger. Eently smooth is beneath your eye as well as the area ;ust beneath the brow bone. 9o not apply to your eyelids.

Refreshing 3loe >era 1ye Cream

ngredients0

G tsp aloe era gel 6 tsp apricot kernel oil 6 tsp grapefruit seed essential 6 tsp grated beeswa, 6 itamin ( capsule

nstructions0

In a double boiler, combine apricot kernel oil and beeswa,. <eat this until it's melted. 8emo e from heat. +i, the aloe era gel into this using a wooden spoon. /llow it to cool. /dd the essential oil and the contents of the itamin ( capsule.

/pply e ery night before retiring.

@avender 1ye Treatment

ou already know how soothing and healing lavender is. 0ow, i"agine it under your eyes!

ngredients0

B $bsp ;o;oba oil 6 $bsp grape seed oil C drops la ender essential oil

B drops chamomile essential oil 7 drops bergamot essential oil

nstructions0

+i, all the ingredients in a glass eye dropper ;ar. 0hake well. Be sure you shake well before e ery use as well.

Cucumber?3loe >era 1ye Treatment

ngredients4

6 tsp fresh cucumber ;uice 6 $bsp aloe era gel J tsp cornstarch 6 $bsp witch ha&el

nstructions0

+i, together aloe era gel, cucumber ;uice, and cornstarch. <eat this until its ;ust boiling. !$his should take about one minute.#

8emo e from the heat and stir in the witch ha&el. /llow the mi,ture to cool completely. $he te,ture should resemble a gel.

0tore in a cool place.

The 0ltimate %ineapple Auice Therapy

1on!t let the si"plicity of this recipe fool you. It really works!

ngredients0

7 tsp pineapple ;uice 6 tsp turmeric powder

nstructions0

3ombine the two ingredients together until you ha e a fine paste. /pply this to the area under your eyes. /llow it to remain for appro,imately 6C minutes. 1ash it off with cool water.

3lmond %o*der?-ilk 1ye Therapy

ngredients0

6 tsp almond powder 7 tsp milk

nstructions0

+i, these ingredients well until they reach the consistency of a fine paste.

/pply this under your eyes, allowing it to remain for appro,imately 6C minutes. $hen rinse it off.

Cocoa Butter Surprise

It!s a surprise because you!ll be unexpected delighted at the richness of this nourishing under.the.eye treat"ent. +nd you!ll love how easy it is to "ake!

ngredients0

6 $bsp cocoa butter 6 $bsp lanolin 6 tsp wheat germ oil 6 drop rosemary essential oil

nstructions0

-sing a hea y saucepan, slowly melt the cocoa butter and lanolin. +i, in the wheat germ oil. 8emo e from heat. /dd the essential oil of rosemary. 0tir until the mi,ture is cool. @lace in a sterile container.

/pply a small amount under your eyes before retiring for the e ening, working from the inside corner to the outside area. Aea e it on o ernight in order for your skin to absorb it.

8erbal 1ye Therapy

ngredients0

6 sprig of elderflowers !or 6 elderflower teabag# G tsp eyebright lea es, dried 6 tsp powdered gelatin C o& water

nstructions0

+i, the elderflowers, eyebright, and water together in a saucepan and bring it to a boil. 0immer for appro,imately 6: minutes.

3ool. 0train. /dd gelatin to B tablespoons of this infusion in a saucepan. /llow it to sit for 6: minutes. /fter this, place it o er low heat, melting the gelatin.

0tore this mi,ture in a clean ;ar with a lid.

9ab a small amount of this to your under eye area.

3*esome Rosemary Skin Tightening Treatment

ngredients0

6 sprig of fresh rosemary 6 tsp almonds, ground 6 $bsp egg white B o& boiling water

nstructions0

@lace the rosemary spring in a bowl. @our the boiling water o er the herb. 3o er and allow it to cool.

8emo e the herb from the water. If necessary, strain the li5uid.

+i, the egg white, almonds and 7 tablespoons of the rosemary infusion together.

9ab this treatment under your eyes. /llow to absorb into your skin for 6C minutes. 8inse with warm water.

You' e got a sampling of a ariety of homemade skin care recipes. $here's only one more category I feel compelled to include, and that's the creation of uni5ue massage oils.

Before you close this book, thinking a massage is pure indulgence, at least glance at the opening paragraphs of the ne,t chapter. You'll disco er that as delightful as a massage may feel, it's e en a better way to promote good health.

$his is true if you go to a spa, or do a self-massage on spot locations. 3heck the benefits out. You may become an adherent of regular massages"

Chapter 2
The Recipes: -assage )ils

f you!ve never e#perienced the rela#ing effects of a massage, then now!s a good time to start2 And there!s no better way than with natural ingredients created in your own home2

ne of the ultimate indulgences in this life, I'

e often thought, is

getting a massage. +any times I' e wanted one, but disco ered I couldn't ;ustify spending the money going to a spa.

Aittle did I know then that a massage -- either administered by another or a self massage -- is actually not ;ust an indulgence, but has ery real health benefits.

1ho knew something that felt that great could also be good for you? If you already know the full benefits of the massage, good for you"

But if you don't, it's about time you learn. /nd one way to disco er the ama&ing, transforming power of this act is simply by e,periencing it yourself -- with natural ingredients"

It's important to use natural ingredients. +ore than any other skin care productL the oils you use really will soak into your skin. /fter all, you're massaging them in"

Before I present the recipes -- and there are many ariations" -- I'd like to tell you ;ust a few of the many benefits of massages. You'll be con inced after reading ;ust this small list of benefits that you can't put off a massage one moment longer"

Dhy .assage= "enefit C* A vital part of your warm up and cool down e#ercise routine

It's true" / 5uick self massage can be a aluable tool in keeping your muscles in shape and preparing them for e,ercise. 1hen you do this, you stand less chance of in;uring them while you perform you acti ities. Ei e it a try"

Dhy .assage= "enefit C, $elieving muscle and Foint pain

If you suffer from chronic conditions like arthritis or rheumatism, you'll be surprised at the amount of relief you'll recei e from a massage using aromatherapy essential oils.

( en if you only ha e an acute pain such as cramps, a massage with essential oils may be able to help ease the pain.

Dhy .assage= "enefit C+ "etter circulation

$he act of massaging your body actually increases the blood flow throughout your body. $his, in turn, impro es the deli ery of nutrients throughout your body.

Dhy .assage= "enefit C4 $elieve 'tress

If no other reason con inces you of the ad antages of a good massage, this one should. 1ho among us isn't affected by stress in one way or another? / good massage is also an e,cellent way to help relie e a tension headache"

Dhy .assage= "enefit C5 $educes blood pressure

1ho knew? But it makes sense. /fter all it helps to ease your stress, which is, for many of us, a source of high blood pressure. Imagine, instead of taking high blood pressure medicine, simply recei e regular massages. 1hat a sacrifice, huh?

Dhy .assage= "enefit C6 'leep sounder2

Indeed, when you recei e a massage, you'll notice that you'll be able to sleep well that night. $he effects of this single massage doesn't ;ust last one night according to ayu edicure.com. You'll disco er that your sleep impro es for se eral nights"

Dhy .assage= "enefit C9 "oosts the immune system

Your immune system impro es when you get a massage. $he gentle massaging action on your body helps to stimulate your digesti e system as well as helps to acti ate your urinary system.

The -assage )il Recipes

2ow that you understand some of the many benefits of massages, are you ready to create your own recipes? <ere are ;ust a few to get you started.

+any of these recipes call for something called a carrier oil. $his type of oil is not the same as an essential oil. (ssential oils are deri ed from the lea es, roots, bark, and other portions of an herb.

/ carrier oil is pressed from the fatty portions -- the seeds, nuts, and kernels -- of

plants. It doesn't e aporate or e en emit much of an aroma.

You may also hear this referred to as vegetable oil, fi#ed oil, or even base oil. 0ome carrier oils are listed below4

'weet almond oil .acadamia nut Apricot kernel Avocado @live )ranberry seed &ecan Evening primrose &omegranate seed $ose hip Grape seed Ha-elnut 'esame Hemp seed 'unflower HoFoba Datermelon seed

You can find these oils at your local health food or itamin shop. 0ometimes grocery stores carry them. But be careful before you buy them at the supermarket. +any sold there are not cold pressed. $hat's ideally the type of oil you should use.

Chamomile -uscle Relief

#his "assage oil helps to heal sore "uscles after a strenuous workout!

ngredients0

7 drops ginger oil D drops cinnamon oil B drops ca;uput oil B drops chamomile oil 6C ml of sweet almond oil

nstructions0

+i, all oils together well.

Eently massage into your muscles.

1nergi.ing Blend
ngredients0

M drops grapefruit oil M drops palmarosa D drops thyme 6C ml sunflower oil

Blend these oils together. 0hake this mi,ture well. $hen simply use when you need more energy"

@emongrass -assage

ngredients4

I tsp grape seed oil M drops orange blossom essential oil 7 drops lemongrass essential oil 7 drops neroli essential oil

nstructions0

0imply mi, these ingredients well.

%eppermint -assage )il

ngredients0

6: tsp grape seed oil B drops eucalyptus oil D drops rosemary oil 7 drops peppermint oil

nstructions0

Blend all oils together well.

+assage into your skin as needed.

Rose*ood -assage )il

ngredients0

6: tsp grape seed oil C drops rosewood oil 7 drops cedar wood oil 7 drops chamomile oil

nstructions0

+i, the abo e oils together well.

Auniper?@avender Blend
M drops ;uniper essential oil C drops la ender essential oil D drops cypress essential oil C drops chamomile essential oil 7 o& sweet almond oil !as a carrier#

nstructions0

+i, all of these oils together.

0hake well before each use. @lace in an opa5ue glass bottle with a tight cap. 0tore in a dark, cool place. $his mi,ture should last for up to si, months.

)range Bliss
nstructions0

B drops orange essential oil C drops la ender essential oil C drops geranium essential oil C drops coriander essential oil 7 o& sweet almond oil

nstructions0

+i, these oils together. @lace in a dark, airtight glass bottle. +ay be safely stored for up to si, months.

Delightfully Rela4ing
ngredients0

B drops la ender oil B drops tangerine oil B drops mar;oram oil 6 drop chamomile oil 6 o& sweet almond oil

nstructions0

Blend all these oils together. 0tore in an opa5ue glass ;ar in a cool, dry place.

8eadache Buster
ngredients0

C drops la ender oil 6 drop peppermint oil 6 o& sweet almond oil

nstructions0

+i, well. @lace in an opa5ue, airtight glass bottle. +assage on neck and shoulders.

Circulation Blend
#his recipe is specially blended to help increase your circulation. #o see the best results, use two to three ti"es daily for at least six "onths.

ngredients0

7 ml eucalyptus 3itriodora 7 ml lemon 7 ml cedar wood 7 ml sage 7 ml cypress 7 ml niaouli 6:: ml ha&el nut oil

nstructions0

+i, well. 0tore in a dry, cool place. 0hould keep for up to si, months.

3ppendi4: 5lossary of Skin Care Terms 3

Acai0 / nati e of Bra&il, a fruit nutritionally dense and rich in antio,idants often used in products to help the system slow the signs of the aging process.

Accutane0 /cne medication used for se ere cases. Fnown generically as sotretinoin, it may be responsible for birth defects if taken during a pregnancy.

Acid mantle0 $he natural acidic skin mantle that works to guard against bacterial in asion.

Acid rinse0 2othing like acid rain, I promise you" 8ather, it's a solution made from water and either lemon ;uice or inegar.

Acne0 +edically known as +cne vulgaris, it's a skin condition that takes many forms, including blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, and nodules. Its characteristics include plugging and inflammation in ol ing hair follicles and sebaceous glands of the skin.

Actenic keratosis0 / pre-cancerous growth usually caused by repeated damage from the sun.

Adenoma 'ebaceum0 sebaceous gland.

/ small, translucent tumor with its origins in the

Adult(onset acne0 +ore commonly affecting females, this condition occurs in an indi idual o er the age of 6I. It can appear in the 7:s, B:s, or e en later in life. You may also hear it referred to as female adult or post-adolescent acne.

Alkali0 -sed in the soap-making process, this substance has the ability to neutrali&e acids.

Algae0 *ften mistakenly used interchangeably with the term seaweed, algae actually include a wide range of terrestrial and a5uatic organisms other than seaweed. /lgae are found in all marine and terrestrial ecosystems worldwide.

Alpha hydro#yl acids0 3ommonly referred to by its initials, /</s, these are fruit acids found in plants. /</s are found in many o er-the-counter acne treatments, as well as a host of cosmetic products such as sunscreens and moisturi&ers. /</s are also used in chemical peels.

Androgens0 $his is the generic term for hormones with masculine features. @roduced by both men and women, androgens are responsible for the enlargement of the sebaceous gland, which prompts a production of more sebum -- an important factor in the de elopment of acne.

Antio#idants0 0ubstances found in fresh fruits and egetables that neutrali&e the presence of free radicals in your system that cause damage, including such degenerati e diseases as cardio ascular disease and cancer. /ntio,idants can also be applied topically to help heal the surface of the skin.

Antiseptic0 /n agent which pre ents or slows the growth of microorganisms.

Arbutin0 3omposed of glucose and hydro5uinone, this is a natural skin lightening agent. It's e,tracted from bearberry plants.

Aromatherapy0 $he use of essential oils to soothe and heal the body, mind, and spirit.

Atomi-er0 / de ice used to break down a water-based product into a fine mist to spray on the body.

Astringent0 / substance that remo es e,cess oil from the skin. .ery often found as an ingredient in facial scrubs to help eliminate any traces of cleansers.

Ayurveda0 / medical system used in India as well as a philosophy offering methods to create harmony and balance in your life.

A-elaic acid0 @roduced by yeast, this is a naturally occurring chemical. It's used as a topical agent not only to treat acne, but also rosacea. /dditionally, it can also be used to lighten the skin.

B
"asal Bayer0 $his is the lowest layer of the epidermis, which produces the needed replacement cells that tra el up to pro ide new cells for the skin.

"en-oyl pero#ide0 $opical antibacterial agent, used many times as an acne treatment. It's the most used topical agent in o er-the-counter treatments as well as prescription medications.

"eta hydro#yl acids0 /bbre iated B</s, they are members of a class of acids which includes salicylic acid. $hese are commonly used in commercially produced skin care products as e,foliants. $hey're also found in a host of other o er-the counter skin care treatments, like moisturi&ers, sunscreens, and chemical peels.

"lackhead0 In medical terms, it's called open comedo. $his is a dark acne lesion composed of a plug of keratin and sebum. $he dark color of the lesion is due to a buildup of melanin.

C
)affeine0 Yes" It's a stimulant that you may cra e in the morning with your coffee. But it's also a great way to soothe puffy eyes.

)amphor0 $his is an anti-infecti e agent that cools and refreshes itchy skin.

)ellulose0 9eri ed from the walls of plants, it's found in cosmetics as an emulsifier and thickener.

)hemical &eel0 $he application of chemicals to the face for the purpose of e,foliating the outer layer of skin cells.

)lindamycin0 /n antibiotic used topically as an acne treatment.

)old(e#peller pressed oil0 $hese are oils e,tracted from egetables without the use of heat. 3old-pressed oils don't contain trans fatty acids. You can purchase these at your local health food store or online.

)ollagen0 $he chief component of connecti e tissue and bones. 3ollagen is a protein. @roduction declines as a person ages, causing thinning of the skin as well as wrinkles and sagging.

)omedo0 / plug of keratin and sebum within a hair follicle. It can surface as either a blackhead or a whitehead.

)omedo e#traction0 / medical procedure that dislodges the contents of blackhead and whiteheads. It uses a loop that applies pressure to the area.

)omedogenic0 /ny product that causes the formation of blackheads and whiteheads.

)omedogenesis0 $he medical term indicating the formation of blackheads and whiteheads.

)omedolytic0 /ny product that breaks up and stifles the formation of blackheads and whiteheads.

)omedone0 / pore clogged not only with sebum, but with dead skin cells as well.

)ongestion0 2ot what you think" $his is a condition in which the skin is bumpy and stopped up. $he natural oils and skin sloughing slows. $his, in turn, lea es the skin appearing dull.

)ontact dermatitis0 $his condition is the result of an allergic reaction or an irritant response to items that ha e touched your skin. (,amples of contact dermatitis include poison i y and poison oak.

)osmeceutical0 /n ingredient in skin care products that alters the skin and its underlying health. $hese are ery often used with other ingredients in skin care products.

)ouperose0 9ilated skin or broken capillaries.

)yclomethicone0 / ariety of silicone, it adds luster and smoothness to skin care creams and other cosmetics.

)yst0 / mass filled with fluid that is usually benign. In terms of acne, a cyst often is used to mean a nodule because of their similar appearance.

D
/ermabrasion0 / medical procedure that uses a rotating instrument to basically sand the skin. $he result is a reduction of scarring and the remo al of some wrinkles.

/ermatitis0 / generali&ed term that refers to an itchy red rash. 0ometimes it's called ec&ema.

/ermis0 $his is a layer of the skin ;ust beneath the epidermis containing blood and lymphatic essels as well as hair follicles, ner es, and glands. You may see it referred to as cutis.

/eto#ification0 / process to cleanse or deto,ify the body. Its aim is to remo e accumulated to,ins.

/issolving e#foliants0 $hese ingredients are made of alpha-hydro,y acids !/</s# and beta-hydro,y acids !B</s#. 0ubstances labeled as /</s include glycolic, citric, lactic, and malic acids. $he commonly used B</s include salicylic acid, sodium salicylate, and willow e,tract.

/.AE0 Its full name is dimethylaminoethanol, and now you know why it's better known by its initials. It's a natural ingredient found in fish. Its benefits include re ersing the onset of wrinkles and sagging skin. You can use this substance both topically and internally.

/o#ycycline0 /n oral tetracycline. It's a treatment for acne and rosacea.

/ry brushing0 @erformed with a massage brush, glo e, or e en a rough towel, dry brushing impro es the skin's circulation. It's performed starting at the feet

and mo ing upward. It lea es the skin slightly red, but it doesn't damage it. $his action can be followed by the use of hydrating oils or moisturi&ers.

1
Ec-ema0 / condition in which the skin is dry, hot, and itchy. If the condition is se ere, the skin can become broken, raw, and bleeding.

Elastin0 / protein located in the dermis, the layer ;ust beneath the epidermis. It's responsible for the elasticity of your skin as well as its firmness. /pplied topically, it can moisturi&e your body.

Ellagic Acid0 /n antio,idant with healing benefits, it's found in green tea, pomegranate, and go;i berry. 0pecifically, this acid helps to inhibit the formation of sun and age spots.

Emollient0 0ubstance which softens the skin through the reduction of the e aporation of water.

Emulsion0 / mi,ture of two or more li5uids, but not e,actly in the way you think. *ne of these ingredients is present as microscopic droplets distributed throughout the other.

En-ymatic E#foliation0 $his ariety of e,foliation uses basically biological factors to remo e dead skin cells. $his e,foliant is applied to the skin and then rinsed off. $he en&ymes used actually dissol e keratin in the skin. In this way, it remo es the dead cells that support the e,foliation. / natural e,ample of en&ymatic e,foliation is the use of papaya and its acti e substance papain.

En-yme &eel0 $his is a type of e,foliation that uses protein en&ymes or alpha hydro,yl acids, also known as /</s, to dissol e dead skin through chemical

means without using the surface abrasi e action of other body e,foliation treatments. +ore often than not, the en&yme peel is applied as a body mask.

Essential ;atty Acids0 $he basic building blocks of your cellular membrane, it pre ents cellular water loss. *mega B and *mega M are essential fatty acids. $hese can be found in fla,seed and go;i berry.

Essential @ils0 *ils e,tracted from certain aromatic plants, they ha e physiological and psychological effects on the body.

Eucalyptus @il0 /lso called eucalyptus globules, this oil is deri ed from the (ucalyptus tree. It's known for its antiseptic action.

Evening &rimrose0 $he oil of this herb contains an abundance of EA/, or Eamma Ainolenic /cid. $his is also more widely known as *mega M fatty acid. It's used as an emollient and skin conditioning agent. It also possesses the ability to help de elop barrier functions.

E#foliation0 $he remo al of dead skin cells, which in turn impro es circulation. It's ery often used to help your body rela,.

,
;/<) /yes and )olors0 $hese are terms describing dyes appro ed by the '9/ for use in cosmetics, food, and drugs.

;acial0 / deep cleansing method for the face using steam. $his may include the use of e,foliates or the application of creams, lotions, cleansers, peels, or masks.

;ibroblasts0 3ells that product collagen.

;i#ed @ils0 2on olatile egetable oils including almond and sunflower. +ay also be referred to as lipids or fats. @ossible uses include massage lubricant or as a carrier for essential oils.

;olliculitis0 / term used to describe inflammation of the hair follicles. @ossible causes of inflammation could be an infection or ec&ema.

5
Glycerin0 / li5uid used in cosmetics and li5uid soaps. <ydrates the skin.

Grape 'eed E#tract0 $his is the substance that is known to be the acti e antio,idant in grapes.

Grapes0 /n e,cellent natural treatment to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. 3an be used crushed and applied to problem areas for about 6: to 7: minutes.

Green %ea0 8ich in nutrients, green tea is also an e,cellent antio,idant. +oisten

green tea bags to use with an e,foliating scrub. /lso a soothing under-eye treatment.

Green %ea E#tract0 green tea.

$he substance that is the natural, acti e antio,idant in

8
Herbal "ath0 / bath using a specific combination of herbs for your own skin care type and needs. /dd to bath water as sachets or e,tracts.

Herbal nfusion0 <erbs which ha e been steeped in water. $hen sheets, bath towels, or hand towels are soaked in this infusion and applied to the body at a treatment.

Herbal Drap0 / warm linen sheet, soaked in herbs, is wrapped around your body. $he procedure promotes perspiration which then draw to,ins from the skin. -sually this treatment lasts about 6C or 7: minutes.

Homeopathy0 /n alternati e healing method based on the theory that %like cures like.% $iny amounts of a specific substance are used to stimulate self healing.

Hydrotherapy0 $erm co ers se eral types of treatment all of which take place in water or use water. $his may include an underwater massage, herbal bath, or other treatments.

Honey0 2atural ingredient with an abundance of itamins used in many natural, homemade skin care treatments.

A
HoFoba @il4 / natural oil e,tracted from the seeds of the shrub known as 0imondsia 3hinese. It's used in skin-care products as an emollient and lubricant.

@
Banolin0 9eri ed from sheep, this substance is used as an emollient and moisturi&er in skin-care products.

Boofah0 / coarse sponge made from natural fibers used on the skin to encourage the sloughing of rough and dead skin.

.echanical E#foliation0 $he physical process of peeling off dead skin cells.

)
@atmeal0 / soothing ingredient typically used to relie e dry, itchy skin. 3an also be used as an e,foliant.

@live @il0

/ common ingredient in many homemade moisturi&ers.

%
&apaya Huice0 /n ingredient used in many skin care recipes due to its ability to treat and pre ent blemishes.

&arabens0 @robably the most commonly used class of preser ati es in skin care products today. $his substance carries a host of potential dangers to not only your skin, but also your health.

&araffin0 / warm li5uid wa, used to relie e pain or rehydrate the skin. +any times it's infused with aromatherapeutic oils.

pH0 +easurement of the acidity of a substance. 2eutral p< is a N.: !the p< of pure water#. If measurement is higher than N, substance is considered to be a baseL lower than N are said to be acids.

R
$ose Hips0 (,tract from wild roses which is abundant in itamin 3.

$osemary0 <erb with antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Eood choice for oily and acne prone skin.

S
'alicylic Acid0 -sed as a e,foliant, it's a mild beta hydro,yl acid.

'alt0 -sed in homemade skin recipes as a %mechanical% e,foliant.

'ugar0 / natural alpha hydro,yl acid used in chemical peels.

0
3ltraviolet A $ays0 3alled by its abbre iation -./ rays, these are produced by

the sun, penetrating deeper into the skin that -.B rays. -./ rays may cause photosensiti ity reactions.

3ltraviolet " $ays0 3ommonly called -.B rays, these are produced by the sun. -.B rays are most associated with skin damage and skin cancer.

>
Ainegar0 -sed as a toner and final cleansing agent. +ost commonly used inegar is of the apple cider ariety, which rebalances the skin's acidity le el.

Aitamin A0 / itamin ital to ensuring renewal of your skin. It's also said to impro e the skin's te,ture and reduce fine lines.

Aitamin )0 / nutrient also known as A-ascorbic acid, which helps create collagen by fibroblasts. .itamin 3 is a water-soluble antio,idant.

Aitamin /0 $his nutrient regulates cell life. It's often used to treat the skin condition psoriasis.

Aitamin E0 /lso known as tocopherol, it's an oil-soluble antio,idant and emollient used in skin care.

Aolatility0 9escribes the rate at which a compound turns into a li5uid and e entually a gas at room temperature, as through e aporation.

:
Ditch ha-el0 / stringent taken from the lea es and bark of the <amamelis .irginnia plant. It helps to impro e acne by remo ing e,cess oil from the skin.

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yhomemade.comHhomemade-

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Books

Berg, 8onaL Froencke, /n;a, ?affe, 9eborah, Beauty: The New Basics, 1orkman @ublishing 3o., 2Y3, 2Y, 7::6.

9olan, 0ue, Naturally Skinsational: Rejuvenating Skin Care Recipes, 0kin 3are 8esource 3enter, 7::=.

Eladstar, 8osemary, Rosemary Gladstar s !er"al Recipes #or $i"rant !ealth: %&' Teas, Tonics, (ils, Salves, Tinctures and (ther Natural Remedies )or the *ntire #amily, 0torey @ublishing, 2orth /dams, +/, 7::6.