Unlike the parts of your body covered by clothing, your face has little protection from the elements. The sun, the wind, dust and airborne pollutants can wreak havoc on your tender facial skin, leaving it parched and dry. Numerous over-the-counter creams and emollients are available to treat dry facial skin but they may contain chemicals, scents or additives. You can use natural remedies to protect your face from additional drying and to soothe and soften the skin.
Cleansing
Harsh soaps and hot water may strip away vital oils from your skin, so the Mayo Clinic advises using warm water and avoiding soaps that contain antibacterial ingredients or deodorants. Beauty Den recommends a natural cleanser, made by combining the juice of a fresh cucumber with milk. Apply with a cotton ball, wipe off and rinse your face with lukewarm water.
The Mother Nature website recommends oatmeal as a moisturizing alternative to soap. Pulverize in a blender or food processor until the oatmeal is a fine powder and put a tablespoon or two into the center of a handkerchief or washcloth and twist or tie to secure. Dip the cloth into warm water and use it to gently wash your face.
Seal in Moisture
After cleansing your face, you can seal in the moisture by applying a moisturizing cream or oil. Svetlana Konnikova, author of “Mama’s Home Remedies,” recommends applying a thin layer of aloe vera gel to your face. Not only does aloe seal in moisture, it soothes dry skin irritations and acts as an emollient to soften rough skin. You can break off the tip of an aloe vera leaf and squeeze out the gel, applying it evenly with your fingers. All-natural aloe vera gel is also available in health food stores.
Soothe
Dry skin may cause itchiness or irritation. Konnikova suggests juicing a cabbage leaf and applying the fresh juice with a cotton ball to the dry skin of your face to soothe irritation and promote healing.
Fresh grape leaves may also offer soothing relief for dry facial skin. Simmer 10 fresh grape leaves in 2 cups of boiling water for 10 minutes then allow the liquid to cool. Strain and apply the liquid to your face with cotton balls. Do not rinse. Reapply as desired.
Moisturizing Masque
Prepare a moisturizing facial masque by combining 1 egg yolk, 1 tsp. of real mayonnaise, 1 tsp. of jojoba oil and 1 tsp. of honey. Mix and add just enough powdered oatmeal to make a thick paste. Apply to your face after cleansing and leave on for 30 minutes or longer before rinsing with cool water.
