Healthy skin daily secretes an important protective covering. This covering is called our “acid mantle” because the secretions are acidic and it helps to protect our body from harmful organisms and harsh environmental effects. To keep your skin healthy and your acid mantle functioning properly you should follow a daily regimen of:
- Eating a healthy, whole foods diet
- Getting a daily dose of essential fatty acids through the intake of unrefined, expeller pressed plant oils or fish oils
- Daily lubricating your skin using a nourishing, natural, skin-friendly moisturizer (find natural moisturizers here)
- Drinking plenty of fresh water
- Getting regular outdoor exercise
Avoid Petroleum Products
Petroleum products, such as petroleum jelly, baby oil, mineral oil and preservatives that are commonly found in store-bought lotions, creams and skin care products are foreign to our skin cells and clogging to our pores. They also attract dirt and bacteria and can become vehicles for these unwelcome substances. When our skin has to deal with this abuse everyday it ultimately weakens and breaks down the strength and durability of our skin and can cause an allergic reaction. This is very evident with the rise in skin allergies, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, dry skin and skin cancer.
A Daily Skin Care Routine for Your Face
Developing a healthy daily skin care routine can work wonders for your skin. The three basic steps to healthy skin are:
- Cleanse
- Tone
- Moisturize
Cleanse
Avoid using soaps that are harsh to your skin. Many of the “Beauty Bars” and so-called moisturizing bars available in the stores contain detergents that strip your skin of nutrients and upset the acid mantle. These detergent based bars should definitely not be used on your face. The best way to cleanse is with just plain warm water on a soft, all cotton washcloth. A gentle rubbing action with the washcloth exfoliates dead skin cells and removes dirt while the warm water opens and cleans out the pores.
If you must use a cleanser be sure to use a natural, botanical soap that contains moisturizing plant oils such as olive, almond, avacado, and jojoba (find Natural Soaps here). Check the label for these products and be sure the label says “soap”. Otherwise, even if it has some good botanical oils, the detergent it contains will strip the oils away and promote dryness.
Liquid cleansers can also be full of skin drying chemicals so It is best to use one that contains moisturizing oils such as castor and coconut. Our liquid Organic Facial Cleanser is chemical-free and leaves your skin clean and dewey soft! You can read more details here>>
Do not cleanse more than once daily unless necessary. Excess cleansing upsets the skins natural oil balance.
Tone
Toning helps to tighten and close your skin’s pores which in turn helps keep bacteria and dirt out and also creates a smooth appearance.
Avoid facial toners that contain alcohol. Alcohol is harsh and can destroy your skin. Instead use botanical waters (a.k.a. hydrosol), such as Lavender and Rose water. These make excellent and effective facial toners. Our Aromatherapy Complexion Mist is made using organic botanical hydrosol and they smell heavenly! Get more details about our Toners here>>
Moisturize
The most important step! To prevent premature aging and wrinkling of your skin you must moisturize it.
Avoid moisturizers that contain alcohol, petroleum products (see above), parabens and synthetic preservatives as they will rob your skin of vital nutrients and ultimately cause a mottled, wrinkled appearance to your skin.
Use moisturizers that contain natural, botanical oils such as jojoba, avocado, olive, shea butter, sunflower and essential oils such as lavender, carrot seed, rosemary, myrrh and chamomile. We have several lotions and oil based serums to help safely and holistically moisturize your skin. You can read about our natural facial moisturizers here>>.
Essential Oils are Essential
The regular use of pure essential oils and botanical plant extracts also help to keep your skin healthy. These nutrients from nature contain minerals and botanical constituents that are essential to proper skin health. Our skin cells recognize these nutrients and will readily accept them in through our pores. Essential oils promote health and balance to our system.
Your choice of which essential oils to use depends on your skin type.
- For acne-prone or oily skin, consider using lavender, tea tree, or lemongrass essential oils to regulate sebum production and combat bacteria. (see Skin Therapy Cream here).
- Dry skin can benefit from the hydrating properties of chamomile, geranium, or rose essential oils, restoring moisture and promoting a supple complexion. (see Sandalwood Rose Complexion Mist here).
- Sensitive skin types may find relief with calming essential oils like chamomile, lavender, sandalwood, or neroli, soothing inflammation and reducing redness.
- Mature or sun-damaged skin can benefit from rejuvenating essential oils such as bergamot, lavender, myrrh, carrot seed, or frankincense, combating signs of aging and promoting skin renewal. (see Evening Primrose Rejuvenating Cream here).
In conclusion, maintaining a healthy acid mantle is crucial for protecting your skin against harmful elements and preserving its vitality. By adopting a daily regimen that includes nourishing your body from within with a balanced diet, hydrating adequately, and using natural, skin-friendly products, you can support the integrity of your skin’s protective barrier. Remember to avoid harsh chemicals and opt for gentle cleansing, toning, and moisturizing routines. Incorporating essential oils tailored to your skin type can further enhance its health and resilience. Embrace these practices to nurture your skin and promote a radiant, youthful complexion for years to come.
@2012, Kelly Frohnauer, Natural Family Botanicals