Overview
Caring for your skin includes skin-problem prevention, as well as treatment of afflictions and conditions after they occur. In addition to the natural processes of aging, your skin must face the affects of sun, wind, cold, dry air and contaminants from dirt, oil and sweat. A comprehensive, natural plan for keeping your skin healthy and face looking youthful is easy with a proactive maintenance and treatment strategy.
Step 1
Hydrate by drinking and soaking in water. Dehydration leads to a lack of lipid retention in the epidermis, which can lead to dry skin, flaking, wrinkles and other skin problems. While you get most of the water you need for good health in the foods and drinks you ingest, people who participate in strenuous physical activity like sports or exercise, and sweat profusely, may become under-hydrated, and should consider drinking more water. According to Dr. Hillard H. Pearlstein at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City, the best way to hydrate skin is to soak in lukewarm (not hot) water for approximately 15 minutes, followed by moisturizing.
Step 2
Juice your fruits and vegetables to get more vitamins and minerals that help maintain healthy skin. Eating an ounce of a fruit or vegetable does not give you the same amount of nutrition as drinking a juiced ounce of that same fruit or vegetable, because the whole food you eat contains mostly dietary fiber. Add juicing to your skin-care regimen not only to increase your vitamin and mineral intake, but to get more water, as well.
Step 3
Monitor weather conditions and respond accordingly. If you will be going outside and spending time in the sun, apply at least a 15 SPF sun block 30 minutes before leaving the house. Applying the lotion this early allows it to absorb into the skin, providing protection as soon as you step outside. Applying sunscreen on the tennis court or poolside does not give you the same timely protection. For cold weather, carry lip balm or petroleum jelly, and consider a scarf if wind will be a factor for a prolonged period. Use a dehumidifier to eliminate dry air in the home or office.
Step 4
Cleanse your skin regularly, including exfoliation. Exfoliation is a gentle, deeper scrubbing that removes more dirt and dead skin cells. Use a loofa bar, dry brush or natural abrasive like oatmeal, rubbed into the skin with your fingers. Use fat-dense soaps for regular washing, like those containing lanolin or cocoa butter.
Step 5
Decrease the temperature of your bath and shower water, and take shorter baths and showers. Hot water depletes skin of lipids.
Step 6
Moisturize your skin with natural compounds like aloe vera or petroleum jelly. You can use both on the face and other problem areas, like elbows, hands or heels.
Step 7
Shave after loosening your beard with warm water. Apply a pre-shave moisturizer before applying shaving cream. Use a sharp blade to avoid nicks, cuts and excessive scraping of your skin.
Step 8
Create homemade skin peels with acidic fruits and vegetables. Apply the juice of a lemon to your face and let it sit five to 10 minutes before rinsing with cool water.
