Natural skin care can be an effective way of caring for sensitive skin as they are less likely to trigger a reaction compared to harsher products containing fragrances and preservatives.
Diet and Sensitive Skin
Diet can play a big part in skin breakouts. A healthy diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables will help skin stay healthy by providing vital vitamins and minerals. Those with sensitive skin should pay attention to their diet and work out if any foods are triggering a skin reaction (could be an indication of a food allergy). The foods more likely to cause a skin reaction include hot and spicy foods.
Drinking plenty of water is important in eliminating toxins in the body as well as keeping skin hydrated and prepared to fight off skin irritations. Alcohol is best avoided as it makes skin more sensitive by changing the dilation and constriction of the skin capillary walls.
General Care for Sensitive Skin
Blotches, rashes and general irritation can be prevented by following certain tips:
- Minimise the amount of product used on skin as well as hair spray and perfume.
- Avoid harsh exfoliation, rubbing, massaging and washing the skin too often.
- Avoid extreme temperatures when showering and cleansing skin.
- Avoid smoking.
Natural Cleanser for Sensitive Skin
A skin test should be performed even with organic products on sensitive users. Skin prone to irritation requires gentle products, and this rose-based cleanser is a good way to get skin clean:
- 125ml rose water
- 100 vegetable glycerin
- 2 drops rose essential oil
Combine ingredients in a glass bottle and shake well. Dampen face with warm water and massage the cleanser into skin. Finish by rinsing skin carefully with warm water.
Natural Sensitive Skin Toners
Rose water is an excellent toner for sensitive skins as it is very mild and soothing. Other good choices for toners include:
- comfrey steeped in water
- lavender water
- cucumber juice
Moisturiser for Sensitive Skin
Pure shea butter is excellent for irritable skins as it has therapeutic soothing properties. High in antioxidants and vitamin E, shea butter also protects against skin damage from sunburns, eczema and other minor dermatosis. Other alternatives to shea butter include aloe vera gel, jojoba oil and coconut oil which all can soothe skin prone to sensitivity.
Facial Treatment for Sensitive Skin
The following honey and oats recipe soothes skin and is perfect for a home facial:
- 2 tablespoons oatmeal
- 1 tablespoon almond milk
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 drop chamomile essential oil
Combine all ingredients and mix well. Cover skin with mask and leave for 15 minutes. Remove with a damp warm flannel.
Sensitive skin requires a gentle touch and natural skin products can help calm irritation and protect it from the elements. Treatments using honey, aloe vera, chamomile and rose water soothe the skin naturally and provide affordable and easy home skincare. Read How to Have a Facial at Home with Natural Products for more advice on deep cleansing skin. The following articles give more information about taking care of skin and hair at home:
Natural Dry Skin Remedies: Skincare at Home
Natural Oily Skin Remedies - Easy Treatments at Home
Natural Acne and Blemish Solutions - Easy Homemade Treatments
Natural Age Spot Treatments
Source:
Vukovic, Laurel 1001 Natural Remedies Dorling Kindersley, 2003
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