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DESCRIPTION
A balance of oil and moisture is crucial for healthy, attractive skin. Oil is secreted by the sebaceous glands and lubricates the surface of the skin. Moisture is the water present inside the skin cells, and comes to the cells through the bloodstream. It is the water in the skin cells that keeps them plumped-up, healthy, and youthful-looking. Oil and moisture work together; there must be enough moisture in the skin cells, but there must also be enough oil to act as a shield, preventing excessive evaporation of moisture from the skin's top layers.
CAUSES
Dry skin is most common on areas of the body that are exposed to the elements, such as the face and hands, but it can be a whole-body problem as well, especially in the winter. It is probably primarily a genetic condition, but it may be caused (or aggravated) by a poor diet and by environmental factors such as exposure to sun, wind, cold, chemicals, or cosmetics, or excessive bathing with harsh soaps. Nutritional deficiencies, especially deficiencies of vitamin A and the B vitamins, can also contribute to dry skin. Fair-skinned people seem to be more likely than others to have dry skin, especially as they age; most people's skin tends to become thinner and drier as they get older. Many people have skin that is dry in some areas and oily in others. In the classic case of "combination skin," the skin on the forehead, nose, and chin tends to be oily, while the skin on the rest of the face is dry.
FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
There are actually two types of dry skin: simple dry skin and complex dry skin. Simple dry skin results from a lack of natural oils. The reasons for this lack of oil vary. This condition most often affects women under the age of 35 years. Complex dry skin lacks both oil and moisture, and is characterized by fine lines, brown spots, discolorations, enlarged pores, and sagging skin. It is usually associated with aging.
Dry skin tends to be dull-looking, even scaly and flaky, and readily develops wrinkles and fine lines. It usually feels "tight" and uncomfortable after washing unless some type of moisturizer or skin cream is applied. Chapping and cracking are signs of extremely dry, dehydrated skin.
TREATMENT
The skin has many ways of protecting itself from harsh environmental conditions that lead to chapping and drying. Its acidic pH helps protect it from numerous pathogenic substances. In addition, the sebaceous glands produce a fatty lubricant, called sebum, which is the skin's natural moisturizer. Furthermore, the top layer of skin, known as the epidermis, forms fibrous proteins that create a thick, protective coat. On the hands, this coating is even thicker, to protect the skin from constant use and friction. Still, circumstances of daily life, such as frequently coming in contact with water - as well as exposure to cleansers, soaps, detergents, and other chemicals, dry heat and cold weather - can result in dry, chapped skin on the hands and body. The condition may worsen existing skin ailments, such as dermatitis. Many natural healing methods can both prevent and healing dryness and chapping. Also, eating oil-rich foods, avoiding potential allergens, using moisturizing salves and wearing gloves can help provide relief.
Dry skin can be a sign of an underactive thyroid. See Hypothyroidism for more information.
Certain drugs, including diuretics, antispasmodics, and antihistamines, can contribute to dry skin.
Cocoa butter is a good skin cream and is not expensive. It also helps reduce skin wrinkling. Keep it in the refrigerator after opening.
Balanced skin depends on the production of natural moisturizing factors that help the skin attract and retain moisture. A group of acids known as alpha-hydroxy acids, applied topically, help to stimulate production of these naturally occurring substances. Alpha-hydroxy acids also encourage the formation of new skin cells. These acids occur naturally in apples, milk, sugar cane, citrus fruits, tomatoes, grapes, and blackberries. Of the alpha-hydroxy acids, lactic acid appears to be the best for improving moisturization, while glycolic acid is more effective at sloughing off dead skin cells and promoting cell renewal.
HOLISTIC RECOMMENDATIONS
Eat a balanced diet that includes vegetables, fruits, grains, seeds, and nuts. Eat quality protein from vegetable sources. Increase your intake of raw foods.
Eat foods high in sulfur, which helps to keep the skin smooth and youthful. Good sources include garlic, onions, eggs, and asparagus. Sulfur is also present in the amino acid L-cysteine, which can be purchased in supplemental pill form.
Consume plenty of yellow and orange vegetables. These are high in beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A.
Drink at least 2 quarts of quality water every day to keep the skin well hydrated.
Avoid fried foods, animal fats, and heat-processed vegetable oils such as those sold in supermarkets. Use cold-pressed oils only. Beware of any oils that have been subjected to heat, whether in processing or cooking. Heating oils leads to the production of free radicals, which may have a destructive effect on the skin. Do take supplemental essential fatty acids. This may be the best supplement available for dry skin, but be patient; it may take a month or more to see results.
Essential Fatty Acids - Oil Rich Diet: Chronic dryness of the skin can indicate a lack of oils in the entire body. Ironically, it is possible to eat a very high-fat diet and still not provider your body with the type of essential fatty acids it needs. Flaxseed, black currant, borage, avocado, olive and evening primrose oils help to provide an abundance of beneficial fatty acids. Fresh, raw and unprocessed seeds and nuts are also rich in fatty acids. Take 1 tablespoon of oil or nuts daily; you may see an improvement in your skin in as little as 4-6 weeks.
Herbal Remedies: Barlean's Flax Oil, 100% Highest Lignan Content, Organic, 16 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Evening Primrose Oil With Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA), Barlean's, 1300 mg, 120 Softgels
Herbal Remedies: Black Currant Oil, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 Softgels
Herbal Remedies: Borage Seed Oil With Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA), Barlean's, 60 Softgels
Herbal Remedies: Avocado Oil, Refined, NOW Foods, 4 fl. oz.
Mountain Rose Herbs: Bulk Carrier Oils
Do not drink soft drinks or eat sugar, chocolate, potato chips or other junk foods.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine. These substances have a diuretic effect, causing the body - including the skin cells - to lose fluids and essential minerals.
Do not smoke, and avoid secondhand smoke. Smoking has a harmful effect on the skin for several reasons. First, nicotine constricts the blood vessels, including the tiny capillaries that serve the skin. This deprives the skin of the oxygen and nutrients it needs for good health. Second, smoking involves the frequent repetition of certain facial postures, which eventually become etched in the skin in the form of wrinkles. The characteristic "smoker's face" has wrinkles radiating in a circle outward from the mouth. Smoking also can make the skin dry and leathery.
Do not use harsh soaps, cold cream, or cleansing creams on your skin. Cleansing creams are made from hydrogenated oils, which can cause free radical damage to your skin, resulting in dryness and wrinkles. Instead, use pure olive, avocado, or almond oil to cleanse the skin. Pat the oil on, then wash it off with warm water and a soft cloth.
Twice weekly, use a loofah sponge for the face and warm water to boost circulation and remove dead skin cells. Avoid using the loofah around your eyes, however.
Always moisturize your skin after cleansing, and at other times throughout the day, if necessary, to keep it from drying out. Use a liquid moisturizer or facial oil that contains nutrients and other natural ingredients. Do not use solid, waxy moisturizing creams. Wrinkle Treatment Oil and Vitamin A Moisturizing Gel from Derma-E Products are both good for dry age lines caused by the sun and the skin's natural aging. The Wrinkle Treatment Oil is also good for cleansing the skin. The moisturizing gel is non-oily and fast-absorbing.
Look for skin care products that contain humectants. Humectants are substances that attract water to the skin to hold in moisture. Natural humectants include vegetable glycerine, vitamin E, and panthenol, a form of pantothenic acid (vitamin B-5).
Humidifiers moisten the air. When the moisture in the room is too low, natural moisture is removed from skin (hands and entire body). You can avoid chapped, irritated skin by using an air humidifier.
Use a humidifier (or even a pan of water placed near a radiator) to humidify your environment, especially in winter. This helps to reduce the amount of moisture lost from the skin through evaporation.
Once a week, use a facial mask to clarify the skin and remove dull, dry surface skin cells. (This can be done immediately after the facial sauna described under HERBS below.) Blend together well 1 teaspoon green clay powder (available in health food stores) and 1 teaspoon raw honey. Apply the mixture to your face, avoiding the eye area. Leave it on for 15 minutes, then rinse well with lukewarm water. While your skin is still slightly damp, apply a natural skin oil or liquid moisturizer.
If your skin is chapped or cracked, increase your consumption of water and essential fatty acids. Keep any chapped areas well lubricated and protected from the elements.
For cracked, dry skin on the fingers, use calendula cream or oil with comfrey, vitamin E oil, and aloe vera. Apply the mixture to hands at bedtime, then wear plastic gloves overnight. Pure vitamin E oil can be found in health food stores.
Daily Ritual - Soaking your hands daily in apricot-kernal or sweet almond oil makes the hands soft and supple. Warm up 1 cup of the oil and soak your hands in it for 10 minutes. Then massage in the oil well.
Wear gloves while washing the dishes and doing housework to protect hands from harsh cleansers and detergents. For those with sensitive skin, cool temperatures and wind can dry and chap the hands, so wear gloves outside in the fall, winter and spring. Avoid using very hot water, and moisturize the hands frequently.
Hot water dries the skin. Hot water severely dries out the skin on your hands and your body and causes itching. If your hands are chapped, always wash them in lukewarm or cool water. Instead of regular soap, try using a mild pH-balanced soap, such as calendula and oatmeal. These products are readily available at health food stores or online and in body-care shops.
To care for combination skin, simply treat the dry areas as dry skin and the oily areas as oily skin. See Oily Skin for more information.
Allergies are often the culprit. Chronic dermatitis, severe itching, chapping, or blisters can be the result of allergies or extreme sensitivities. Eliminate the potential sources of allergens that might be present in lotions and soaps. These include coloring agents, synthetic oils, mineral oils, lanolin and fragrances.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
Take 5 mg daily the skin protecting vitamin Biotin in supplement form. Biotin is also contained in such foods as liver, soy flour, mushrooms, egg yolk, nuts, sardines, and almonds.
Take 1 tablespoon of flaxseed oil daily.
Take 30-60 mg Zinc 1-2 times daily.
Take 25,000-50,000 IU of Beta-Carotene every day.
See SUPPLEMENTS below.
HERBS
Used topically, Aloe Vera has excellent soothing, healing, and moisturizing properties. It also helps to slough off dead skin cells. Apply aloe vera gel topically on affected areas as directed on the product label.
Calendula and Comfrey have skin-softening properties. They can be sued in a facial sauna or to make herbal or floral waters (see below). Comfrey also reduces redness and soothes irritated skin. Allantoin, an ingredient in many skin care products, is derived from comfrey. Note: Comfrey is recommended for external use only.
Calendula Oil for chapped hands. Calendula is a type of marigold that's very easy to grow and has skin-healing properties. Pick a handful of the barely opened flowers on a dry day and put them in a blender. Add enough olive oil to cover the flowers and purée. Store in a glass jar away from direct heat, and shake daily for several weeks. You can add more blossoms and olive oil over the weeks. When the oil has taken on a deep orange color, strain it a few times. Apply to chapped skin as needed.
Olive Oil moisturizer for supple skin. The fatty compounds in olive oil soothe chapped hands, promote the regeneration of skin cells and help to seal in the skin's natural moisture. Each night before you go to sleep, coat your hands with a thick layer of olive oil. Put on a pair of light, cotton gloves. In the morning, rinse your hands.
Spray an herbal or floral water mist on your skin throughout the day to replenish lost moisture. Almost all skin types, but particularly dry skin, benefit from lavender. You can purchase lavender water already made, or you can make your own by adding a few drops of Lavender Essential Oil to 4 ounces of distilled water, or by making an infusion of fresh Lavender leaves and flowers.
A weekly facial sauna using the herbs Chamomile, Lavender, and Peppermint is good for dry skin. Using a glass or enameled pot, simmer a total of 2 to 4 tablespoons of dried or fresh herbs in 2 quarts of water. When the pot is steaming, place it on top of a trivet or thick potholder on a table, and sit with your face at a comfortable distance over the steam for 15 minutes, splash your face with cold water and allow your skin to air dry or pat it dry with a towel. Then either apply a good natural moisturizer or facial oil, or apply a clay mask. After the sauna, you can allow the herbal water to cool and save it for use as a toning lotion to be dabbed on your face with a cotton ball after cleansing.
ALL-PURPOSE HEALING SALVE
To make an all-purpose healing salve for dry, irritated or inflamed skin, mix in a pot:
4 tablespoons Calendula Oil
4 tablespoons Comfrey Oil
4 tablespoons Arnica Oil
4 tablespoons Vitamin E Oil
Gently warm the oils on the stove or in a microwave oven. Melt 1/3 ounce of Beeswax in a double boiler. Mix the herbal oil and beeswax together, pour into glass jars and cool.
NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS
Unless otherwise specified, the following recommended doses are for adults over the age of 18. For a child between 12 and 17 years, reduce the dose to 3/4 the recommended dose. For a child between 6 and 12 years old, use 1/2 the recommended dose, and for a child under 6, use 1/4 the recommended dose.
NUTRIENTS Supplement Suggested Dosage Comments Very Important Primrose Oil Up to 500 mg daily. Contains linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid needed by the skin.
Evening Primrose Oil With Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA), Barlean's, 1300 mg, 120 SoftGels,
Evening Primrose Oil, 100% Pure, NOW Foods, 4 fl. oz.,
Evening Primrose Oil, Cold Pressed, Nature's Way, 1300 mg, 120 SoftGels,
Evening Primrose Oil, Cold Pressed, Nature's Way, 500 mg, 250 SoftGels,
Barlean's Evening Primrose Oil With Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA), 1300 mg, 120 SoftGelsVitamin A 25,000 IU daily for 3 months, then reduce to 15,000 IU daily. If you are pregnant, do not exceed 10,000 IU daily. Helps prevent dry skin. Strengthens and protects the skin tissue.
Vitamin A, 10,000 IU, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 100 SoftgelsPlus
Natural Beta-Carotene
Or
Carotenoid Complex15,000 IU daily. Helps prevent dry skin and aids in healing of tissue. Potent antioxidant and precursor of vitamin A.
Beta Carotene (Natural Dunaliella Salina), Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 25,000 IU, 100 Softgels,
Multi-Carotene Antioxidant, Nature's Way, 60 SoftgelsOr
ACES Plus Zinc from Carlson LabsAs directed on label. Contains antioxidants that protect the skin by neutralizing free radicals.
Vitamin B Complex As directed on label. B vitamins are needed for healthy skin. Anti-stress and anti-aging vitamins.
Ultimate B (Vitamin B Complex), Nature's Secret, 60 Tabs,
Vitamin B-100 Complex, w/ Coenzyme B-2, Nature's Way, 631 mg, 100 CapsPlus
Vitamin B-121,000-2,000 mcg daily. B vitamins are needed for healthy skin. Use a lozenge or sublingual form.
Instant Energy B-12, 2000 mcg/Packet, NOW Foods, 25 Packets/Box,
Vitamin B-12, NOW Foods, 5 oz.,
Vitamin B-12 Lipospray, NOW Foods, 2 oz., Vitamin B-12 (Cyanocobalamin), 2000 mcg, 100 Sublingual LozengesImportant Kelp 1,000-1,500 mg daily. Supplies needed minerals. Needed for good skin tone.
Kelp Supplement, Nature's Way, Certified, 650 mg, 100 Capsules,
Kelp Seaweed, Norwegian, NOW Foods, 100% Natural, 550 mg, 250 CapsVitamin E Start with 200-400 IU and increase slowly up to 800 IU daily. A potent antioxidant. Protects against free radicals. Used topically, it can minimize wrinkling. Use D-Alpha-Tocopherol form.
Ester E Natural Vitamin E, California Natural, 400 IU, 60 Softgels,
Vitamin E, 400 IU, 100% Natural, NOW Foods, 100 Gels,
Vitamin E-1000, NOW Foods, 1000 IU, 100 Gels,
Vitamin E, d-alpha-tocopherol, 400 IU, 100 Softgels
Zinc 50 mg daily. Do not exceed a total of 100 mg daily from all supplements. Protein metabolism depends on zinc. The skin is composed primarily of protein. Necessary for proper functioning of the oil-producing glands of the skin. Use zinc gluconate lozenges or OptiZinc for best absorption.
Zinc Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 100 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.,
Colloidal Silver & Zinc Lozenges, Silva Solution, 90 Lozenges,
Zinc Lozenges W/ Echinacea & Vitamin C, Nature's Way, 23 mg, 60 Lozenges,
Zinc (Chelated), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 30 mg, 100 CapsHelpful Ageless Beauty
(Biotec Foods)As directed on label. Protects the skin from free radical damage. Aloe Vera As directed on label. Has excellent soothing, healing, and moisturizing properties. Helps to slough off dead skin cells. Apply aloe vera gel topically on affected areas.
Aloe Vera Gel, NOW Foods, 32 oz.,
Aloe Vera Gel, NOW Foods, 1 GallonCollagen Apply topically as directed on label. Good for very dry skin. A nourishing cream that can restore a healthy tone to damaged skin. Elastin Apply topically as directed on label. Helps prevent and smooth wrinkles. Glucosamine Sulfate
Or
N-Acetylglucosamine (N-A-G)As directed on label. Important for healthy skin and connective tissue.
Glucosamine Sulfate Powder, NOW Foods, 6 oz.,
Glucosamine Sulfate (FlexMax), Nature's Way, 750 mg, 80 Tabs,
N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG), Allergy Research Group / Nutricology, 90 CapsGH3 Cream
(Gero Vita International)Apply topically as directed on label. Excellent for the prevention of wrinkles. Also good for any discoloration of the skin. Herpanacine
(Diamond-Herpanacine Associates)As directed on label. Contains antioxidants, amino acids, and herbs that promote skin health. L-Cysteine 500 mg daily, on an empty stomach. Take with water or juice. Do not take with milk. Take with 50 mg vitamin-6 and 100 mg Vitamin C for better absorption. Needed for flexibility of the skin. Contains sulfur, needed for healthy skin.
L-Cysteine Structural Support W/Vitamin B-6 & C, Vegetarian, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 CapsLecithin Granules
Or
Capsules1 tablespoon 3 times daily, before meals.
1,200 mg 3 times daily, before meals.Needed for better absorption of the essential fatty acids.
Lecithin Vegetarian Granules, NOW Foods, 97% Phosphatides, Identity Preserved Non-GE, 1 lb,
Lecithin Liquid, NOW Foods, Vegetarian, 16 fl. oz.,
Lecithin Concentrate, Nature's Way, 400 mg, 100 SoftGelsPycnogenol
Or
Grape Seed ExtractAs directed on label.
As directed on label.A free radical scavenger that also strengthens collagen.
Pycnogenol W/ Vitamin E, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 50 mg, 30 Tabs, Grape Seed (Grapeseed) (Vitus vinifera), 100% Pure, NOW Foods, 16 fl. oz.Selenium 200 mcg daily. Encourages tissue elasticity and is a powerful antioxidant. Protects against ultraviolet-induced damage.
Selenium Supplement, Yeast Free, NOW Foods, 200 mcg, 180 Caps,
Selenium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 50 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.,
Ionic Selenium, 300 mcg, 2 fl. oz., Trace Minerals,
Selenium, 100% Natural, 200 mcg, 100 CapsSuperoxide Dismutase (SOD) As directed on label. A free radical destroyer. Also good for brown age spots.
GliSODin Antioxidant Catalyst, NOW Foods, 100 mg, 90 VCaps,Tretinoin (Retin-A) As prescribed by health care provider. Removes fine wrinkles; also excellent for age spots, precancerous lesions, and sun damaged skin. Available by prescription only. Takes around 6 months to show results. Vitamin C With Bioflavonoids 3,000-5,000 mg daily, in divided doses. Necessary for collagen production; strengthens the capillaries that feed the skin.
Vitamin C Liquid w/ Rose Hips & Bioflavonoids, Kosher, Natural Citrus Flavor, Dynamic Health, 1000 mg, 16 fl. oz.,
Ester C With Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 1000 mg, 90 Tabs,
Vitamin C 1000 With Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 VCaps,
The Right C, Nature's Way, 1000 mg, 120 Tabs
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR PREGNANT WOMEN
PREGNANCY & SELF-TANNER SAFETY
There are no studies that show self-tanner to have any type of harmful affects on pregnant women or a developing fetus. The one caution is that skin might react different than normal to these creams due the changes the skin experiences during pregnancy. Applying a small amount of cream to a hidden area is highly advised to determine the skin reaction. However, it is wise to check with your midwife or health care provider before using any chemical substance during pregnancy, internally or externally. It is always better to refrain from using these products until after your baby is born, just to be on the safe side.
PREGNANCY & OVER-THE-COUNTER (OTC) ACNE MEDICATION SAFETY
You should always double-check any questions you may have with your midwife or health care provider who is, after all, your primary care provider during pregnancy. And keep in mind, many midwives and health care providers tend to follow the "better safe than sorry" rule and very often are conservative when giving advice. Most cosmetics ingredients are probably safe for pregnant women, but to be on the safe side, it's wise to avoid those that penetrate the skin and have not been studied for use in pregnant women.
SUBSTANCES PREGNANT WOMEN SHOULD AVOID
Avoid oral antibiotics often prescribed for acne. If you have a severe inflammation, ask your midwife or health care provider about oral erythromycin, which is considered the safest for use during pregnancy. Usually, this medication is reserved for those who have very painful and inflamed lesions.
Avoid daily use of benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. If you need to dry out a pimple now and then, dab on benzoyl peroxide, just don't slather it all over your face every day. As for salicylic acid, no studies have been done. In both cases, it's safe to use in a cleanser, which is rinsed off the skin.
Avoid products that contain vitamin A and it's derivatives (retinals, including Retin-A, and retinoids). A vitamin-A derivative in Accutane, which is taken by mouth, has been shown to cause birth defects.
Avoid alpha-hydroxy acids in creams you leave on your face.
Avoid depilatories (cream hair removers) because the chemicals seep into the pores and loosen hair follicles. Shave while you're pregnant.
Avoid self-tanners. They are probably safe, but require leaving the chemicals that dye skin cells on your skin for several hours. It is better safe than sorry.
Avoid hair dyes that cover your entire head as the dyes usually saturate the scalp and could be absorbed into your system. Theoretically, these are safer towards the end of your third trimester, but there are cautions against hair dye because there are even safety questions about hair dye for non-pregnant women.
OK PRODUCTS FOR PREGNANT WOMEN
Nail polish remover that is used on the nails and immediately washed off is OK. Ditto for nail polish that is only wet for a short amount of time and is usually not applied more than once a week. Neither polish nor remover are absorbed by the nail plate.
Sunblocks are more than just OK, they are required! Look for sunblocks that contain transparent zinc oxide, micronized zinc oxide or titanium dioxide -- the products that contain these ingredients contain fewer chemicals. Protecting your facial skin from the sun is essential during pregnancy to prevent a condition called melasma, which is known as the mask of pregnancy. The brown patchy skin that can crop up on your outer cheeks and outer forehead is caused by a combination of your hormones and sun exposure.
Highlights or hair painting are OK if the dyes do not touch your scalp.
Moisturizers and skin-soothing oils and creams are great to treat dry skin and avoid uncomfortable itching where your skin is stretching. There is no proof they prevent stretch marks, but some women swear by them!
SPECIAL NOTE ABOUT STRETCH MARKS
Contrary to popular belief, stretch marks cannot be prevented. Your best defense is healthy skin, and good genetics behind you. These marks will fade and turn silvery after the birth.
Here are some suggestions:
- Eat the proper diet to help your skin be healthy.
- Drink plenty of fluids (Skin that is well nourished stretches better).
- If you have itching, use a cream to moisturize the area, some people prefer a Vitamin E oil.
- Take Homeopathic Calc Fluor 6X 3 times daily for a week starting in early pregnancy, continue alternate weeks for the rest.
RECIPE FOR STRETCH-MARK OIL:
- Dark glass 50 ml bottle.
- 50 ml of Wheat Germ oil, or mixture of Wheat Germ and Almond oil.
- Essential oils of Lavender and Neroli.
Fill the bottle with wheat germ oil, or the mixture of wheat germ and almond oils for a thinner solution. Add 15 drops of the essential oil of lavender and 10 drops of the essential oil of neroli. Massage daily after bathing.
If you have no major skin problems, cleanse with a mild cleanser and use a light moisturizer at night; apply a moisturizer with a sunblock in the morning.
If you have a skin condition, whether it's acne, rosacea or eczema, inform your dermatologist you are pregnant when discussing treatments and check your dermatologist's prescriptions with your midwife or prenatal health care provider.
HOMEMADE RECIPES FOR DRY SKIN
MASK FOR DRY SKIN
Ingredients:
6 ounces Plain Yogurt
1/4 finely crushed Almonds
2 teaspoon Beeswax or Honey
2 teaspoon Wheat Germ Oil
Directions: Mix all the ingredients until you obtain a smooth texture. Apply and massage into skin. Keep the mask on for twenty minutes.
Ingredient Benefits:Crushed Almonds -
- Exfoliating power.
- Eliminates dead skin.
Honey
- Aids in adhering mask to skin.
Wheat Germ Oil -
- Contains Vitamin E.
- Fights free radicals.
HOMEMADE LIP BALM
To make lip balm, gently heat 1/2 cup of Almond or Grapeseed oil in a double boiler. Add 2 tablespoons of grated Beeswax. Melt the beeswax and then add 1/2 teaspoon of Alkanet root to color the mixture red. When the beeswax is entirely melted, strain the oil into a measuring cup and remove the alkanet root. Add ten drops of a natural flavoring oil and 3 drops of Vitamin E Oil.
DRY, FLAKY LIPS REMEDY
Apply your favorite lip balm and rub lips together. Using a dry toothbrush, brush lips gently in circular motions until the flakes have dislodged. Wipe lips clean and rub in more lip balm. Repeat daily and skip the lipstick until your pout returns to normal.
CHAPPED SKIN REMEDY
Moisten dry, chapped hands with a Sandalwood, Chamomile or Rose essential oil that has been mixed with a hydrating base oil such as Hazelnut, Avocado or Evening Primrose.
DRY HANDS REMEDY
To soothe dry hands, make a honey paste to use overnight. Stir together one tablespoon each of ground almonds, ground oatmeal (use a spice mill or coffee grinder), zinc oxide paste and honey, as well as one egg yolk. Rub the mixture over your hands, and recruit someone to help you into a pair of cotton gloves. Leave the gloves on overnight. In the morning, rinse your hands with cool water -- and feel the softness.
HOMEMADE HAND CREAM
It is always important to keep your hands moisturized. For a natural hand moisturizer, combine Wheat Germ Oil with a favorite essential oil. Keep an energizing blend handy during the day and a calming blend nearby at bedtime.
SOFTENING CRACKED HEELS
Cracked heels are uncomfortable, not very pretty and during the summer months they put a serious crimp in your shoe wardrobe. During the winter you can hide them, but cold weather and indoor heat sap moisture away nonetheless. Your best bet is to exfoliate daily while you are in the shower - pumice stones or foot files (they are like nail files, only bigger) are great for softening calluses. Then carefully pat them dry and immediately apply a rich moisturizing cream. Curel's Skin Healing Stick looks like a solid deodorant but it is an intense moisturizer that easily targets problem areas such as your heels. Before bed, slather on a lot and slip on a pair of socks for intense healing while you sleep.
TREATING ROUGH, DRY FEET
Use a rich emollient cream (Aloe Vera is especially softening) on your feet every night, massaging the cream in well. Try a foot massage cream with a touch of mint or a hint of menthol for a soothing fresh feeling. You would also do well to start the day with a dab of the same cream.
DRY SKIN SUPPLEMENTS & PRODUCTS
Supplements and products for Dry Skin.
Aloe Vera Skin Gel, Herbal Aloe Force, Organically Grown, Unprocessed Whole Raw Aloe Vera, 4 fl. oz.
Can keep your skin looking clean, clear, smooth, toned, hydrated and glowing with health. Can also reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and sun damage.Burt's Bees Honey & Grapeseed Thoroughly Therapeutic Hand Creme, 2.6 oz.
This naturally therapeutic Burt's Bees hand creme combines Honey, a natural humectant, and vitamin rich Grapeseed oil to moisturize and rebalance dry, damaged hands.Burt's Bees Hand Salve, 3 oz.
Burt's Bees Hand Salve is made from sweet almond oil, olive oil and beeswax, with vitamin E, comfrey root extract, rosemary, lavender, eucalyptus oil added for their healing and soothing properties.Burt's Bees Hand Salve, Mini Carry Tin, 0.30 oz.
Burt's Bees Hand Salve is perfect for those who work outdoors in gardens or on farms.Cocoa Butter, 100% Pure, NOW Foods, 7 oz.
Cocoa butter is used in confections and in the manufacture of tobacco, soap, and cosmetics. By itself, it is used to improve skin elasticity and to reduce wrinkles.Colloidal Silver Lotion, SilvaSolution, Homeopathic, 4 fl. oz.
Effective for minor skin irritations, rashes hives, insect bites, sores, burns, inflammation, skin swelling and dry, itchy, cracked skin.Colloidal Silver Salve, SilvaSolution, 2 oz.
SilvaSolution Colloidal Silver Salve now contains added homeopathics that add a benefit that will enhance the SilvaSolutions effectiveness.Eczema Cream, Homeopathic Florasone, Boericke & Tafel, 1 oz.
Florasone Homeopathic Eczema Cream is fast acting, pleasant to use, non-greasy and absorbs quickly.Emu Oil Soap, Unscented Bar Soap, Thunder Ridge Emu Oil Products
This Unscented Emu Oil Soap Bar is moisturizing, condition, non-irritating, and accompanied with all the benefits of emu oil.Emu Oil Scented Soap, Organic Bar Soap, Thunder Ridge Emu Products
This lightly Scented Emu Oil Soap Bar is organic, moisturizing, conditioning, non-irritating, and accompanied with all the benefits of emu oil.Episilk Natural Hand & Body Lotion, Hyalogic, 8 oz.
Episilk Natural Hand and Body lotion contains high concentrations of hyaluronic acid.Hyaluronic Acid Hydraplenish With MSM & BioCell Collagen, Vegetarian, Nature's Way, 60 VCaps
Hyaluronic Acid Hydraplenish contains the patented BioCell Collagen II complex for healthy connective tissue and synovial fluid plus Opti MSM to support healthy hair.Hyaluronic Acid Hydraplenish With BioCell Collagen, Vegetarian, Nature's Way, 60 VCaps
Hyaluronic Acid Hydraplenish contains the patented BioCell Collagen II complex for healthy connective tissue and synovial fluid.Kalladerm, Heartland Natural Skin Cream For Calloused Skin, 2 oz.
Kalladerm, Heartland Natural Skin Cream helps eliminate calluses and corns. It is also great for dry cracked feet.Lemon Butter Cuticle Creme, Burt's Bees, 0.60 oz.
Lemon Butter Cuticle Creme is for strong, lovely healthy fingernails. Burt's Cuticle Cream is for a soothing blend of natural ingredients for intensive care of dry cuticles, chapped hands and cracked or brittle nails.Macadamia Nut Oil, Organic, Non-GE, NOW Foods, 16 oz.
To ensure quality and purity, NOW Foods Macadamia Nut Oil uses only unrefined, unhybridized macadamias, grown in Australia.NutriBiotic Skin Ointment, With Grapefruit Seed Extract & Lysine, 0.5 oz.
NutriBiotic Skin Ointment with GSE can be used topically for such things as scrapes, scratches and cuts. NutriBiotic Skin Ointment with GSE can also be used on the lips and in the mouth on cold sores and canker sores.Organic Flax Protein / Fiber / Lignan Cold Milled Powder Plus Omega 3, Certified, Nature's Way, 16 oz.
Nature's Way EFAGold is the highest quality flax seed protein powder, and one of nature's richest sources of protein, fiber & essential fatty acids.Pasca-Balm Bentonite Ointment & Skin Softener, 5 oz.
For minor skin irritations, cuts scrapes, bug bites, itchy rashes, dry and cracked skin. Rub into or dab on skin as desired or several times daily.Propolis & Tea Tree Ointment, 3.53 oz.
Propolis & Tea Tree Ointment is especially helpful in assisting tissue repair after burns. It can be applied directly to the skin to help the healing process.Pure Emu Oil, 100% Pure, Naturally Refined, 8 fl. oz.
Thunder Ridge's Pure Emu Oil is a natural skin softener and protector. This pure Emu Oil supports skin hydration and elasticity and improves skin surface blood flow & healing.Pure Lanolin, NOW Foods, 7 oz.
Pure lanolin can be used like petroleum jelly on chapped skin and as a moisturizer When rough, troubled, chapped patches of skin. Pure lanolin is considered a heavy duty moisturizer.Pure Shea Butter, 100% Pure, NOW Foods, 7 oz.
Pure Shea Butter is derived from the seeds of the Karite Nut of the Mangifolia Tree in Africa. A powerful emollient, Pure Shea Butter can be used alone as a moisturizer or as a lip balm.Unker's Medicated Salve, 7 oz.
Unker's Medicated Salve has been providing healing and relief for over 60 years. It works great for arthritis, sore muscles and joints, cuts, burns, bruises, throat congestion, sinus problems, psoriasis, and much more.
Herbal Remedies: Dry Hands / Eczema on Hands Supplements & Products
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
If you or a family member are or have symptoms of dry skin and feel you need to have medical assistance to alleviate the problem.
If you or a family member experiences severe chapping, cracking and/or bleeding of broken skin.
If you or a family member experience symptoms of infection from broken skin.
You have any unexpected or unusual symptoms. Some people may have sensitivity, allergies, or other health conditions which would prevent them from using certain medications, herbs, or other treatments. Some medications used may produce side effects.
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HELPFUL PRODUCTS & FURTHER EDUCATION
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 2nd Edition
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 4th Edition
Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
-- by Phyllis A. Balch
The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
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