You might be thinking, “Isn’t castor oil known for its laxative properties?” You’re not wrong, but castor oil has had numerous uses for thousands of years. In Ancient Egypt, for example, castor oil was used to treat eye irritation and induce labor in pregnancy. Nowadays, you can commonly see castor oil in skin and hair care applications, particularly because it has incredibly moisturizing properties. 

What Is Castor Oil?

Extracted from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, castor oil is a vegetable oil that must go through processing for safe usage. The reason for that is because the seeds, castor beans, contain high levels of ricin, which is a toxic enzyme. Ricin is removed during processing, making it safe for people to use. Nowadays, castor oil is a common ingredient in many lotions, makeup products, and cleansers as a humectant, hydrating agent, and moisturizer. Continue reading to learn how using castor oil benefits facial skin. 

May Reduce Fungal Infection

In a 2013 study, researchers aimed to determine the antimicrobial activity of different natural extracts against Candida albicans and Enterococcus faecalic in root canals. The results indicated that castor oil was able to significantly reduce the number of CFU of the tested bacteria. Candida albicans is the fungus that can cause nail fungus, athlete’s foot, diaper rash, and jock itch. 

May Soothe Sunburn

According to anecdotal evidence, the moisturizing properties of castor oil may soothe the irritation and pain of a sunburn. Researchers believe that the anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil are responsible for this ability. 

Exhibits Moisturizing Qualities

Castor oil is rich in fatty acids, which work to keep your skin healthy and hydrated. It acts as a humectant, creating a barrier on the surface of dry skin to help lock in moisture. In doing so, castor oil can help prevent moisture from evaporating from the skin. Skin and hair care manufacturers add castor oil to beauty products for this reason. It’s also added to these products as an emollient to promote hydration. Because castor oil is thick, you may want to dilute it in a carrier oil, such as sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, or coconut oil, prior to applying it to the face. 

Can Help Soothe Inflamed Skin

One study found that the analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties in castor oil helped reduce inflammation in mice. Researchers observed similar effects in guinea pigs. Although gels containing ricinoleic acid can reduce inflammation, more human studies are needed to fully understand the scope of castor oil’s ability to soothe inflammation.

May Exhibit Antibacterial Properties

According to scientific studies, castor oil contains analgesic, antihistamine, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. A study from 2016 aimed to determine if castor oil exhibited antibacterial activity. Study authors noted that the protein from castor seeds contained antibacterial and anti-proliferative properties, inhibiting the growth of S. aureus, which causes acne. 

How To Use Castor Oil

As mentioned earlier, you can incorporate castor oil in various creams, lotions, or oil combinations. Because it is thick, you may want to dilute it with a carrier oil before applying it on your face. Alternatively, you can dip a cotton ball in castor oil and gently dab it on the face and neck. In circular motions, gently massage the areas of application for three to five minutes before washing your face with a mild cleanser. 

Risk Factors Of Castor Oil Use On The Face

When testing any new oil on the skin, you run the risk of irritation. One study found that undiluted castor oil caused severe irritation on rabbit skin, while only causing mild irritation on rat and guinea pig skin. In human trials, castor oil wasn’t found as a skin irritant. That said, people with sensitive skin or occupational dermatoses (a form or skin inflammation) may experience skin irritation. Castor oil may also cause eye irritation and discomfort if it gets in your eye, so be careful when using castor oil on the face. A few tips to follow include:

• Always do a patch test: This rule applies to any new oil or skin care product you have concerns about. Test a small amount of the oil on your hand or arm and allow it to sit for 24 hours to see if you have a reaction.
• Check the label: The preservatives in castor oil may cause irritation. Always read the label to check the ingredients, as not all oils are created equal. Choose oils that are cold-pressed organic without any additives.

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It’s safe to say that people are not afraid of putting oils on their skin anymore, and rightly so. That’s great, considering that beauty shelves used to be replete with oil-free ads. Applying oil to the skin is not a new practice; rather, many cultures have used oils to benefit the skin for centuries. Various oils exhibit skin-nourishing properties, but you do have to find the right oil for your skin type. 

What Is A Carrier Oil?

A carrier oil is plant-based and tends to have a neutral or mild scent. You can use them on their own, or mix them with other oils, such as essential oils. The great thing about carrier oils is that they do not contain fillers or chemicals that you typically find in store bought skin care products. The main thing to keep in mind when buying these oils, though, is to make sure they are cold-pressed. That is the best method of extraction for preserving their health properties. 

A carrier oil can help to naturally moisturize, protect, and improve the overall quality of the skin. Different carrier oils may benefit certain skin conditions, while others aim to rejuvenate and improve the skin’s appearance. Some can even help you balance oil production, offer anti-aging effects, and enhance the skin barrier. Below, you will find great carrier oils for different skin types. 

Hemp Seed Oil

Hemp seed oil is naturally rich in both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which help it function as a natural humectant. A humectant is a substance that attracts water, so it helps to hydrate the skin, nails, and even hair. Hemp seed oil is non comedogenic, meaning it will not clog your pores, and that makes it suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone or oily skin. The antioxidants in hemp seed oil work to reduce the signs of aging, while the anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritated skin. 

Sunflower Oil

Beauty experts note that sunflower oil is naturally balanced, meaning it is not too heavy or too light. Sunflower oil is widely available and works to promote skin hydration, protect the skin barrier, and reduce water loss. According to research, sunflower oil is naturally rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which is why it is a common ingredient in anti-aging skin care products. Several studies indicate that the anti-inflammatory properties in sunflower oil benefit people with eczema, or general redness or skin irritation. Use it as a post-shower body oil, an anti-aging mask, or after-sun nourishment. 

Olive Oil

Rich in vitamins A and E, olive oil is a great carrier oil choice if you want to reduce premature signs of aging. Olive oil’s polyphenols, antioxidants, and immune enhancers make it great for skin protection. It works to fight the effects of sun damage and may even soothe inflammation. That said, do not use olive oil topically if you have a history of eczema or allergic contact dermatitis. It has been associated with worsening atopic dermatitis.

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil is extracted from the seeds of the jojoba plant, jojoba oil is one of the most common carrier oils in existence. It is beneficial for nearly all skin types and is rich in antioxidants, vitamin E, and nourishing fatty acids. Jojoba oil can help moisturize the skin without leaving a heavy residue behind. You can use jojoba oil if you have combination skin, dry skin, or oily skin because it mimics the skin’s natural oils. Jojoba oil is also a natural emollient, helping to maintain a protective skin barrier. 

Sweet Almond Oil

Sure, almonds are a healthy, filling snack, but have you ever used sweet almond oil to nourish your skin? If you have very sensitive or dry skin, sweet almond oil will be a great moisturizing treat for your skin. It is replete with vitamin E, fatty acids, proteins, and various minerals, all of which encourage healthier skin. You can use sweet almond oil as a body oil, combining it with rose petals for an optimal floral scent and enhanced antioxidant activity.

Argan Oil

Great for the hair and skin, argan oil has been an effective moisturizer and cosmetic oil for centuries. Although evidence-based studies are lacking, argan oil has helped many people reduce premature signs of aging. Some research indicates that argan oil can restore some of the skin’s natural hydration and elasticity after menopause. Its anti-melanin action makes argan oil great for evening out skin tone. Argan oil also works to promote collagen production, replenish the skin with fatty acids, and treat acne.

Avocado Oil

As you know, avocados are naturally rich in fatty acids and beneficial nutrients. That makes avocado oil the perfect oil for moisturizing dry skin. Because it has vitamins A, D, and E, avocado oil helps support collagen production and fights signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles. Among other beneficial properties, avocado oil works to moisturize dry skin and fight free radicals, which contribute to early signs of aging.

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If you’ve perused the skin care aisle at any drugstore, you’ve seen bottles of toner. Typically a lightly-tinted or clear liquid, toner is a curious skin care product for many people. There are quite a few misconceptions about its purpose as well. Your reason for using toner depends on the type of skin you have. We are big fans of toner and what it can do for your skin. In this article we will explain how a toner benefits the skin, in addition to providing simple recipes for every skin type. 

What Does A Face Toner Do?

Simply put, toner removes any traces of dirt, impurities, or grime that remain in your pores after cleansing. When you incorporate toner into your skin care routine and use it regularly, you can improve the tightness of pores and overall appearance of skin. Toner also works to restore the skin’s pH level and smooths it out by refining any rough patches. 

Ideally, you want the skin to be at its natural pH as much as possible. The skin has an acid mantle, which is a protective layer on the surface, and it should sit around 5.5 pH. That is slightly acidic, but that is where the skin can function its best and renew itself. That said, toner doesn’t just help to balance the skin’s pH; rather, it also aids with: 

• Hydrating the skin: Spritzing toner on the skin helps to replenish moisture, but make sure to use it before moisturizing the skin.
• Helping other skin care products sink in: Toners help prepare your skin to optimally absorb other products in your skin care routine.
• Removing leftover dirt: Toners act like second cleansers, removing the remains of makeup and general grime that don’t get picked up when you wash your face. 
• Making the skin appear smoother: Apply toner with a cotton round to remove the buildup of dead skin cells, which can make the skin appear smoother. 

How To Make Your Own Toner

It is very easy to make a simple DIY toner for every skin type. If you’ve been looking for a simple toner that doesn’t upset your skin type, consider the following two-ingredient recipes. Let us know if one works for you in the comments below. 

Toner For Sensitive Skin

One of the best ingredients for sensitive skin is rose water, which exhibits powerful antioxidant properties that balance the skin. Rose water also replenishes the skin with moisture and offers soothing properties, making it great for those with sensitive skin. Because of its gentle nature, rose water makes for a great DIY toner. 

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup dried rose buds
• Hot filtered water

Instructions:

• Pour the hot water over the rose buds (enough to submerge them) and allow them to sit for one to two hours. 
• Use a strainer to separate the rose buds from the rose water. Pour the strained rose watering a spray bottle and use when needed.
• Ideally, spritz your face with this rose water twice a day after cleansing. Just store it in the fridge and use it within seven to 10 days. 

Toner For Dry Skin

If you have dry or dull skin, toner can help provide hydration. In the case of this recipe, the rose water helps to soothe the skin and even out skin tone. 

Ingredients:

• Rose water (see above recipe)
• Geranium essential oil

Instructions:

• Use the above recipe to make the rose water. Add three to five drops of geranium essential oil to the rose water and shake to combine. 
• Make sure to shake the bottle before each use. Store in the refrigerator and use within seven to 10 days. 

Toner For Oily And Acne-Prone Skin

Green tea, just like rose water, is rich in powerful antioxidants. It also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and acne. The apple cider vinegar works to restore your skin’s pH level back to normal. 

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup steeped green tea
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

• After you steep the green tea bag in hot water, allow the tea to come to room temperature before discarding the tea bag. Pro tip: place the tea bag on your eye if you need to reduce puffiness. 
• Pour the green tea and apple cider vinegar into a spray bottle, screw on the lid, and shake to combine. 
• To apply, you can either spritz the toner on your face or apply it to a cotton round and gently pat your face. Store it in the fridge and use it within 10 days.

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Tea tree oil is an essential oil that has been commonly used to treat acne, athlete’s foot, nail fungus, and insect bites.

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If you eat certain foods, especially unhealthy foods, you probably know how they affect your body. Perhaps your stomach hurts more if you eat a lot of fried foods. Maybe you feel more bloated after consuming a lot of pasta. The foods you eat influence your digestive health, but research shows that there is a link between nutrition and skin health. 

Researchers already know that the gut-skin axis influences skin inflammation management. If you eat more pro-inflammatory foods, the skin can age more quickly. High-glycemic foods can trigger acne flare-ups, especially in people who are genetically predisposed to acne. Eating too many sugary foods can lead to fragmented or hardened collagen, which weakens the skin’s foundation and increases the risk of premature aging. 

Learning about the foods that negatively affect the skin is just as important as figuring out which ones promote healthy skin. When you focus on consuming foods with skin-enhancing nutrients, you may notice more youthful skin. If you want to promote smoother, softer, and firmer skin, add the following three foods to your diet.

Mangos

If you enjoy the tropical sweetness of mango, consider your skin lucky! As long as you consume mangos in moderation, they may help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. One study monitored the effects of consuming either a half-cup of mangos or a cup and a half of mangos, four times per week for 16 weeks. At the end of the study, researchers found that there was a reduction in wrinkle severity with the half-cup of mangos. The study authors attributed that to the carotenoid and flavonoid content of mangos. In the one and a half cup serving, however, the appearance of wrinkles increased. That is likely because of the higher sugar content. 

Almonds

If you need a midday snack to keep you full between meals, almonds are a great option. Not only do they satiate you, but they may also reduce the appearance of wrinkles. In a prospective randomized controlled study, dermatologists found that snacking on almonds helped ease dark spots and wrinkles. A separate study consisting of post-menopausal women examined almond consumption on several skin parameters. Study results suggested that daily almond consumption was able to reduce wrinkle severity and facial pigment intensity. In fact, daily almond consumption for 16 weeks showed a 16% reduction in wrinkles, compared to a controlled group. Dark spots reduced by 20%. Study authors attribute this quality to the antioxidant compounds in almonds, such as vitamin E. 

Salmon

The thing to note about salmon is that you want to purchase wild caught salmon, not farm-raised salmon. Does salmon reign supreme when it comes to omega-3 content? Although it does not top the omega-3 charts, it does have a high content, which is good news for your skin, heart, and brain. Studies have found that omega-3 fatty acids decrease UV-induced skin stress, enhance skin hydration, and provide photo-protection. The fatty acids are just the tip of the beneficial iceberg, though. Salmon contains lots of antioxidants, including an impressive one called astaxanthin. According to research, astaxanthin improves skin hydration, elasticity, and texture. It may also help reduce fine lines and age spots. 

In a randomized controlled trial with 46 healthy female participants, researchers monitored a group that took astaxanthin capsules and a group that took placebo pills. In the astaxanthin group, researchers noted decreased wrinkle parameters in comparison to the placebo group. Another trial found that astaxanthin supplements helped reduce wrinkles after 16 weeks. 

In conclusion, what you eat influences how your skin looks as you age, for better or for worse. Although we are not advocating an all-or-nothing diet, keep in mind that the more you know about food, the healthier, and sexier, your body can be. Eat things that bring you joy, but know how different foods affect you.

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As the body’s largest organ, the skin provides a physical barrier that protects you from the outside world. If the skin isn’t functioning optimally, you may notice irregular or unpleasant symptoms, including pimples, lumps, bumps, and infections. You may not need to worry about some symptoms, while others may be cause for concern. Some may even require medical treatment to prevent symptoms from worsening. 

Underarm bumps, for example, are one such symptom that can be quite annoying. There are several cases to these bumps, so understanding how they came to be is integral to getting rid of them. To get to the root cause of symptoms and find the right course of action to take care of the issue, continue reading. 

Acne

If you have had acne before, you know that it typically occurs on the face, chest, back, and arms. Those little blemishes can rear their heads under the arms too, according to dermatologists. Acne has several causes, the most common of which include clogged hair follicles, excess oil, skin inflammation, or bacteria. Because the armpits have oil glands, you may see blemishes in those areas. Dermatologists recommend seeking out washes with active ingredients that fight acne. If you cannot clear up underarm pimples with an acne wash, a topic cream or oral medication may be necessary. 

Ingrown Hairs

Certain cultures, especially here in the United States, have normalized getting rid of body hair. If you shave, wax, or move your armpit hair in other ways, you increase the risk of ingrown hairs. Commonly associated with shaving, ingrown hairs, or razor bumps, resemble small pimples. As the hair grows between shaves, the hair shaft can curl back and penetrate the skin. That causes red, irritated skin and the pimple-like appearance. Although anyone who shaves can experience ingrown hairs, they are more common in people with curly or coarse hair. You can click here to learn about a lot of home remedies for razor bumps, which tend to clear up on their own. In some instances, you may need to treat ingrown hairs with dermatologist-recommended products. Word to the shavers out there: replace your blades because shaving with dull blades can easily cause ingrown hairs. 

Hidradenitis Suppurativa

The what now? Commonly known as HS, hidradenitis suppurativa is a lesser-known cause of underarm bumps. This commonly occurs where skin touches skin, making the armpits a prime spot for the issue to occur. HS also goes by acne inversa, which can be mistaken for acne, even though it is not a type of acne. The underarm bumps are similar to lumps, but they can appear painful and drain pus, according to experts. Failure to treat them can result in scarring. HS is a chronic skin condition and there is no cure, unfortunately. Consult your dermatologist to determine the best course of action to take, i.e. antibacterial creams, oral antibiotics, or medical cleansers.

Swollen Lymph Nodes

If you notice a lump or swollen area in your armpit area, you may have swollen lymph nodes. The lymphatic system’s primary functions are to filter out foreign substances and fight off infection. You have hundreds of lymph nodes throughout the body, some of which are under your arms. Swollen lymph nodes in the underarm area can cause bumps or lumps, which you may be able to move with your fingers. There is always an underlying cause to swollen lymph nodes, as they don’t swell up on their own. Certain cancers, autoimmune disorders, and medications can cause lymph nodes to swell up. Because swollen lymph nodes are common, they aren’t always cause for concern. Your immune system may not be in its best working order and the swelling will calm down once it fights off the infection. Should swollen lymph nodes persist, especially if they are hard or tender to the touch, you may want to consult your healthcare professional.

Folliculitis

If you suspect that acne is the cause of your underarm bumps but the pimples don’t go away with over-the-counter treatments, folliculitis may be the culprit. Folliculitis is a common skin infection of the hair follicles, and the pus-filled bumps resemble acne. Bacteria can get into damaged hair follicles and cause folliculitis bumps, which mimic ingrown hairs. Hair follicles are easily damaged by shaving, wearing tight clothing that causes friction, or spending too much time in sweaty clothes after a workout. In mild cases, folliculitis will go away on its own. You can apply a warm compress to your underarms several times per day to help accelerate hair follicle recovery. You can also experiment with peroxide washes or antibacterial treatments, should folliculitis persist.

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Lemon balm is a relaxing, calming herb loved by bees and humans alike. It is a common ingredient in stress-reducing creams or supplements that aid sleep and rejuvenation. As a relative of the mint family, lemon balm has dense green leaves that emit a fresh lemon aroma. It is a lovely addition to any herb garden and complements other shrubs and flowers. If you have good soil and sunlight, lemon balm will grow easily!

How Does Lemon Balm Benefit The Skin?

Rich in caffeic and ferulic acids, both of which are antioxidants, lemon balm can help neutralize free radicals on the skin. Free radicals, which are commonly created by pollution, are oxidizing agents that cause damage to skin cells. If left unchecked, these free radicals can cause premature aging, including fine lines, dark spots, and wrinkles. Creams or salves that contain lemon balm work to increase circulation, while simultaneously tightening the skin. 

Lemon balm exhibits antibacterial properties that work to cleanse pores and reduce the frequency of blackheads. Some anecdotal reports indicate that it may aid healing, being a natural remedy for insect stings, bites, cuts, and small wounds. Lemon balm contains rosmarinic acid, which works to benefit oily skin by reducing oil production. In turn, that effect may help reduce acne breakouts. 

What Does The Research Say?

An in-vitro study that used lemon balm oil found it to be very effective against a series of human cancer cell lines. Lemon balm oil exhibits antioxidant activity, evidenced by a reduction of 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH). Another study from 2004 found that lemon balm may offer anti-tumor properties, but more research is necessary to determine this. 

Lemon balm works to relax the blood vessels and offers antiviral activity. Historically, Greek and Latin cultures used lemon balm to calm nerves and treat fevers. In America, the Cherokee tribe used lemon balm to remedy digestive disorders and mitigate stress. Even today, lemon balm offers therapeutic properties that help soothe wounds, anxiety, acne, eczema, and even chickenpox. 

What Is Lemon Balm Oil?

Lemon balm can also be found in oil form, but you can make your own lemon balm oil if you have the time. Please note that lemon balm oil is not the same as lemon balm essential oil, which is made by distilling lemon balm leaves. To make lemon balm oil, you have to crush the leaves and slowly heat them in a carrier oil, such as jojoba oil, almond oil, or fractionated coconut oil. This process can take a couple weeks before it is ready to use, and the longer you wait, the better. If you don’t have the time, though, you can buy lemon balm oil for the following DIY salve. 

DIY Lemon Balm Salve

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon candelilla wax
• 2 tablespoons jojoba oil
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 tsp lemon balm oil (not essential oil)

Instructions:

• Melt the wax with the jojoba oil and olive oil in a small saucepan over low heat. Once the wax is melted, you can stir in the lemon balm oil. 
• Transfer this mixture to a metal storage tin and allow it to cool before placing the lid on. Use as needed, but do not use lemon balm if you have thyroid issues.

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From jojoba and argan to coconut and beyond, many oils reportedly improve the skin’s appearance. Which ones are the most effective for improving the overall health and integrity of your skin, though? Whether you want to moisturize, protect, cleanse, or reduce fine lines, face oils may be exactly what your skin has been missing. 

First off, you must understand that each oil is unique and offers its own set of benefits. Additionally, one oil that works for one person may not work for another person. The unique biology of the skin may agree with oils in different ways. What is for certain is that many oils have been researched and reviewed by scientists and beauty experts. In this article, we’ll take a look at five different face oils and how they contribute to flawless-looking skin. 

Grapeseed Oil

Rich in high amounts of omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E, grapeseed oil works to increase the skin’s moisture levels. It also makes the skin more supple and less prone to cracking, which reduces the risk of wrinkles or fine lines. According to beauty experts, grapeseed oil is one of the best natural oils for facial skin, primarily because it contains proanthocyanidin. This antioxidant helps to even out skin tone and enhances the skin’s ability to bounce back. One study found that oral consumption of grapeseed oil reduced the appearance of melasma, which is characterized by blue-gray or brown patches on the face. 

Olive Oil

It shouldn’t be a surprise that olive oil, although a staple in many kitchens, made the list of beneficial face oils. Olive oil results from a process of pressing olive fruits to extract their oil. It contains vitamins A, D, E, and K, in addition to antioxidants and squalane. Research suggests that olive oil helps to fight free radical damage, slow skin aging, and hydrate dry skin. One animal study involving mice found that olive oil application to their skin yielded lower rates of tumors caused by ultraviolet rays. If you have sensitive skin, however, steer clear of olive oil because it may cause allergies. 

Marula Oil

If you are chasing the fountain of youth and yearn for beautifully radiant skin, marula oil offers impressive anti-aging benefits. Made from the marula trees in South Africa, marula oil can help smooth fine lines and may reduce the appearance of wrinkles. If you have dry facial skin, apply this oil to your face to leave it feeling soft and refreshed. Because marula oil has a high oleic acid content, it helps restore moisture in skin that is on the drier end of the moisture spectrum. The skin quickly absorbs this oil, so you can apply other products after without worrying about a greasy residue. 

Rosehip Oil

Beauty experts consider rosehip oil as one of the top anti-aging oils on the market. It is gentle enough for sensitive skin and is a dry oil, meaning it is fast-absorbing so as not to leave your skin greasy. Instead, applying rosehip oil can help contribute to smoother, softer, and more supple skin. Research shows that rosehip oil encourages cell turnover, so it acts as a natural exfoliant. It is a rich source of vitamin E and essential acids, which work to keep your skin soft and healthy. Rosehip oil may also be effective for eliminating hyperpigmentation, which is usually difficult to get rid of. 

Argan Oil

Harvested from the kernels of the argan tree in Morocco, argan oil is rich in antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamin E, making it an excellent face oil. It helps to protect the skin and absorbs quickly, so you can use it with other skin care products. One of the attracting factors to argan oil is that it is great for all skin types, from very dry to very oily. It may help get rid of acne because it helps reduce inflammation and stays out of your pores. Lastly, argan oil’s antioxidants may help repair the skin and fight the signs of aging.

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If you wear makeup then you probably use micellar water to remove it at the end of the day. It dissolves makeup gently and cleanses the skin with ease. If you are conscious of what you put on your skin, perhaps you use a non-toxic micellar water, which can be quite expensive. Can you make your own non-toxic version and will it be as effective? The last thing you want is to have to scrub your face with elbow grease to remove makeup.

What Is Micellar Water?

Micellar (pronounced “mi-sell-ar”) water originated in France and is a common skin care product that aids makeup removal. Additionally, it works to remove impurities from the skin in a gentle way. The name comes from the word micelle, which is a collection of molecules. Micellar water has a mild concentration of soap or detergent molecules in the water, so there are microscopic bubbles that float in the water. It doesn’t feel like a soapy solution when you apply it; rather, it just feels like washing your face with water.

How Is It Different Than A Toner?

In a typical skin care routine, you apply a toner to your face after washing it with a cleanser. You usually follow up the toner application with a moisturizer or serum. Traditional toners help to get rid of excess oil or residual dirt or makeup that you don’t wash away with your cleanser. New toners are more focused on skin hydration, with cleansing taking a back seat. Water is the primary ingredient in most toners, and the same goes for micellar water. The difference between micellar water and toners is in the added ingredients (there are no micelles of soap, but low concentrations of alpha or beta hydroxy acids for anti-acne purposes). 

Does Micellar Water Remove Makeup?

Dermatologists agree that micellar water can get rid of most makeup and some waterproof cosmetic products. This is because regular micellar water contains a mild detergent. It doesn’t remove all types of makeup, though. Specialized makeup like stage makeup or certain types of waterproof cosmetics, such as mascara, prove difficult for micellar water to remove. It may remove some, but not all of it, and that is usually sufficient for most people. 

The Non-Toxic Version

The non-toxic micellar water recipe in this article only contains five ingredients, all of which are completely natural. It contains jojoba oil, coconut oil, vegetable glycerin, almond oil, and witch hazel. Jojoba oil is perfect for anyone with sensitive skin and it is incredibly hydrating, working to lock moisture into your skin. Some people use coconut oil to naturally remove makeup because it dissolves makeup and cleanses the skin with its antimicrobial properties. Almond oil isn’t necessary for the recipe, but it helps to add extra moisture and reduces puffiness. Vegetable glycerin is another moisture-locking ingredient that helps to soothe the skin and break down grime and makeup. Finally, witch hazel works to relieve inflammation, fight acne, and tighten your pores. 

DIY Non-Toxic Micellar Water

Ingredients:

• 1 cup distilled water
• 2 teaspoons jojoba oil
• 1 tablespoon fractionated coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon almond oil
• 2 teaspoon vegetable glycerin
• 1 tablespoon witch hazel

Instructions:

• Pour all of the ingredients into a sealable container and shake well to combine. 
• When you use this micellar water to remove makeup, make sure to use it with a reusable cotton round. 
• This recipe feels exactly like any store bought version, if not better! Let us know how you like it in the comments below.

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If you want your skin to glow, you have to treat it right. The matcha clay face mask in this article is a simple, all-natural mask that works to detoxify the skin. Not only does that help remove impurities from your pores, but it also helps the skin look more radiant. Can you go wrong with nourishing ingredients like matcha, French green claw, kaolin clay, honey powder, aloe vera powder, and more?

This face mask helps to absorb excess oil and deep clean the skin. Matcha, spirulina, and goat milk powder help to calm and revive the skin with nourishing vitamins and minerals. Other ingredients help trap moisture into the skin and give it an immediate glow. Whether you have acne prone skin, oily skin, sensitive skin, or dry skin, this mask is highly suitable. Continue reading to learn about some of the standout ingredients. 

Aloe Vera Gel Powder

Aloe vera gel is a natural humectant, which attracts moisture from the air and supplies it to your skin. By deeply moisturizing the skin, you strengthen your skin’s elasticity, helping it appear smoother and more supple. If you notice that facial skin feels dry, this is an ingredient your skin requires.

Spirulina Powder

Spirulina is a notable superfood that provides the body with protein, thiamin, copper, niacin, iron, and more. It is also a great source of antioxidants, which help contribute to a fresh, clear complexion. Spirulina helps nourish the skin, promoting cell growth and regeneration with its amino acid content. 

Matcha Powder

Made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, matcha exhibits impressive antioxidant activity. The leaves dry naturally, so no heating is involved, which better preserves their nutrients. Matcha also offers antibacterial and antibiotic properties, which help rejuvenate skin cells, promote smooth skin, and reduce fine lines. 

Kaolin Clay

Kaolin clay has a fine texture, so it is very gentle on the skin. It is less absorbing than French green clay, which we will discuss next. If your skin is dry or sensitive, double the amount of kaolin clay and omit the French green clay from this recipe. 

French Green Clay

Rich in trace minerals, French green clay works to nourish the skin, clear impurities, and absorb excess oils. Studies show that this clay benefits people with acne because it helps to remove blackheads and germs in pores. It also tightens pores and promotes overall skin rejuvenation. The green color is attributed to the centuries-old plant matter, from which French green clay is made. It also contains iron oxide, which helps draw out toxins from the skin. 

Honey Powder

Honey exhibits antibacterial and antiseptic properties that help soothe inflammation. The antioxidants in honey support cell regeneration and strengthen the skin. Just like aloe vera, honey is a natural humectant, so it helps trap moisture into the skin and add shine to your complexion. 

DIY Matcha Clay Face Mask

Ingredients:

• 1.4 ounces French green clay
• 1.4 ounces kaolin clay
• 0.7 ounces goat milk powder
• 0.35 ounces matcha powder
• 0.35 ounces honey powder
• 0.17 ounces spirulina powder
• 0.04 ounces aloe vera gel powder
• 0.02 ounces allantoin

Instructions:

• First of all, a digital scale to make your life easier. Weigh out the different powders and place them all in a medium-sized mixing bowl. 
• After mixing the powders thoroughly, Pour the mixture into an airtight container and store in a cool, dark place. You don’t want this to be exposed to sunlight or a heat source. 
• When ready to use, put two teaspoons of the powder into a small mixing bowl and stir in one teaspoon of water. Continue stirring until you achieve a smooth paste. 
• Using a brush or spatula, apply the mask to your face, making sure to avoid the lips, hairline, eyes, and eyebrows. 
• Rinse with warm water and a washcloth after 10 minutes. You can then apply a toner and moisturizer.

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