For those of you who are concerned about the dangers of repeated contact with harsh chemicals on the body's largest organ (YOUR SKIN) I have decided to to share some simple, effective ways to naturally clean and moisturize your most important protective covering. Our skin is not just a barrier but is a very fine sieve that is designed to absorb, or breath fine particles as well as exhaling or excreting pollutants that would harm the organs it protects, it does this through sweat and cells that have died. In Eastbourne, Sussex, on 20th November 1968 studies were done that showed the quick and effective penetration of lipid-soluble substances and gases through the human skin. If essential oils can be absorbed into the blood stream in as little as 5 to 20 minutes why is it so unreasonable to assume that harsh chemicals cannot do the same thing.
Generally the most popular soaps, body washes and shampoos clean with harsh chemicals, these chemicals are designed to clean by creating a corrosive action that destroys the delicate dermis, epidermis and hair follicles. Over time, the use of these harsh chemicals can lead to a wide variety of health concerns such as diseases of the eyes, problems with headaches, skin irritations, and even bladder infections just to name a few.
When we take the time to educate ourselves and our families about these dangers and then make some simple changes with every day foods, enhanced with essential oils we are then feeding, nourishing and protecting while we clean. Education in my opinion should include the ability to reason it out in our minds and understand that just because our skin may not have broken or torn areas does not mean it has the ability to keep everything out like an exoskeleton might!
A great rule of thumb to use when making up natural recipes is that these types of products cannot sustain a long shelf life and even with refrigeration they must be used quickly. Adding lemon or lime juice, or essential oil of rosemary or tea tree will help to act as a natural preservative.
Included in this blog is a great, gentle cleanser/toner for the face. This will help to remove any traces of soap and quickly restore the skin's protective pH levels. Always start with distilled water or at least purified spring water, this will further ensure your ability to clean and tone.
Mix 1 quart of water with one medium, organic cucumber, 1 ounce of pure witch hazel, 20 drops essential oil of Lemon, 10 drops each essential oil of Rosemary, Tea Tree and Lavender.
Combine all ingredients in a blender until the cucumber is liquefied. Strain through a fine sieve or coffee filter. Put in a dark glass bottle with a secure lid and store in the refrigerator. This is applied to the face and neck after gently cleansing with warm soap and water. If your soap is not the best, this mixture will remove any traces of the soap.
If you don't want to continue using harsh soap try using a simple mixture of ground oatmeal mixed with cornmeal. Take about one tablespoon of the mixture in the palm of your hand and add enough warm water to form a paste. GENTLY scrub your face and neck, then rinse with warm water. No harsh chemicals! You could even add a few drops of Helichrysum and Tangerine essential oil to gently glean and oxygenate your skin.
This type of cleaning and toning is very definitely more than skin deep, it is a nourishing meal that will leave your skin satisfied and happy.
P.S. I bet you will find these simple tips a lot cheaper than commercially produced products even if purchased in bulk sizes.
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