During wintertime, we protect ourselves from the cold with jackets, heavy sweaters, scarves and layers that allow us to enjoy our favorite outdoor activities. But sometimes we forget to take care of our skin. In the cold season, our skin is less able to protect itself from becoming dry and dull. That is when we start struggling with skin problems like flaking and cracking.
Having a skincare routine that includes a gentle, non-foaming cleanser that won’t strip moisture from your skin is a must during this time. Also, you can complement your daily routine with natural ingredients that are hiding right in your kitchen. These can help you boost your skin’s smoothness while locking in moisture to finally beat the winter blues.
COCONUT OIL
Coconut oil is an amazing natural moisturizer. It’s packed with vitamin E, saturated fats and essential amino acids to keep your skin hydrated, which preserve its protective barrier function to ward off cracks and flakes.
Coconut oil also has antibacterial properties that help keep skin clear and promote scar healing. We recommend using pure extra virgin raw coconut oil for best results.
Try this three-step recipe to get all the benefits from this superstar ingredient: Make a face and body oil using coffee grounds and coconut oil. Mix equal parts of coffee grounds with coconut oil and massage it into the skin on your face and body. Spread it like a mask or body lotion for 15 minutes, then rinse.
BROWN SUGAR
You should try to avoid sugar intake to maintain a healthy diet, but in winter, don’t forget to use it as a natural exfoliator. Brown sugar has small particles that make it a gentle and safe exfoliator to remove dead skin cells and support cell turnover.
Brown sugar also helps hydrate and condition your skin due to its humectant properties.
Chapped lips? Try this three-ingredient lip scrub: Mix 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of raw honey and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Combine all the ingredients, and then gently massage onto your lips for three minutes. Allow it to sit on your lips for five more minutes, then rinse.
RAW HONEY
Honey is an incredible ancestral ingredient that has tons of benefits for your skin, and you probably have some in your cabinet just waiting for your favorites waffles. Not any more!
Honey contains enzymes that easily penetrate the skin while conditioning it and softening from within. It also has antioxidants that help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while improving skin elasticity and texture.
Keep your skin moisturized using just one ingredient. Try this inexpensive beauty treatment today: Apply raw honey on you face for five minutes to keep your skin hydrated all winter long.
AVOCADO
Who doesn’t love avocado to mix with your favorite toast or green salad? I’m a big fan of avocado. Although it is a great complement to almost any meal, this powerful fruit is your skin's best friend when it comes to fighting winter skin woes.
Avocado is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, potassium and vitamins A, D and E, all of which help to heal dry, irritated and flaky skin.
Try this tasty recipe: Mix equal parts avocado and olive oil and apply the mixture to your skin once or twice per day. This nourishing blend will leave your skin soft and smooth.
OATMEAL
Whether or not you have sensitive skin in wintertime, oatmeal will help replenish skin’s natural oils thanks to its healing, moisturizing and antioxidant properties.
Oatmeal flakes are packed with protein, antioxidants, vitamins and fiber, which help prevent the appearance of dead skin and alleviate redness.
To fight winter skin damage, try this easy face mask: Mix 2 tablespoons of applesauce (you can even make it at home), 2 tablespoons of oatmeal flakes and 1 tablespoon of raw honey. Apply the mixture to your face and neck, let it sit for 15 minutes and then rinse the mask off with warm water.
Let us know what your favorite ingredient is, and how you like to use it on your skin!
