How great is it that you get to enjoy the beautiful summer months? The sun rises early, sets late, and you get to enjoy hiking, gardening, beach or lake days, and backyard barbecues. As incredible as all that sounds, the bugs, depending on where you live, can be relentless. From mosquitos and ticks to chiggers and spiders, summertime can be a brutal time for bug bites. Fortunately, you can be ready to soothe that itchiness with a homemade plantain salve. 

What Is Plantain? 

Let us first clarify one thing regarding the name of this herb. Despite sharing the same name, plantain weed is unrelated to plantain fruit. With a long history as a healing plant, plantain is widely known in the herbalist community as “nature’s band-aid.” Plantain (Plantago major), grows naturally in many yards and fields all over the United States. It only came to the U.S. by way of new settlers from other countries. Natives in both America and New Zealand referred to plantain as “Englishman’s foot” or “white man’s foot.”

Believe it or not, you can find plantain weed in most yards and fields across the U.S., and it will take over unless you control it. It grows as a rosette with leaves that surround the stem at the base. The leaves are more oval and somewhat large, with the stems standing above them with seeds at the top. No matter the variety of plantain weed, all of them work interchangeably, so you don’t have to worry about which one is more potent for your DIY salve. 

Plantain Benefits

Plantain weed has a long list of benefits for both internal and external uses. For the purpose of this article, we will focus on plantain’s benefits for the skin. Exhibiting antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and astringent properties, plantain may help relieve a variety of common skin ailments and bug bites. Historically, plantain leaves were used to help heal minor wounds, scrapes, cuts, bumps, infections, bruises, and burns. 

On its own, plantain weed is a complete medicine, meaning you don’t need to add anything to it to create an effective herbal remedy. At the same time, you can incorporate other herbs or ingredients to incorporate other soothing benefits, which is especially beneficial for relieving bug bites. Typically, it isn’t the actual bite that causes the itch; rather, it is an anesthetic that the bug injects you with as it drinks your blood! If you are allergic to that anesthetic, the body attacks the substance with white blood cells, causing the area to become inflamed and red. 

The salve in this article calls for you to infuse dried plantain leaves into a carrier oil of your choice. We listed sweet almond oil, but you can use olive oil, avocado oil, coconut oil, or jojoba oil if you prefer. Once you infuse the oil, you will melt beeswax and mix in the infused oil with it before allowing it to solidify at room temperature. The beeswax helps moisturize and protect the skin, which may help relieve itching. It also creates a barrier on the skin that protects the bite to promote healing. 

DIY Plantain Salve

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried plantain leaves
• 1.5 cups sweet almond oil (or carrier oil of choice)
• 1 ounce beeswax

Instructions:

• Put the dried plantain leaves into a glass pint jar and pour the oil in to cover the leaves. 
• Screw on the lid and allow the oil to infuse for about four to six weeks. Ideally, place the jar in a cool spot away from direct sunlight. 
• Once the oil has infused, strain the leaves from the oil through a fine mesh sieve and make sure to press out any remaining oil from the leaves. 
• Pour one cup of the plantain infused oil into the top of a double boiler over medium-low heat and add the beeswax. Stir occasionally until the beeswax is fully melted. 
• Remove from heat and stir more to combine. Pour the mixture into several small tins or jars and allow the salve to set at room temperature (this will take a couple hours). 
• The plantain salve is ready to use once it is solidified. The salve will keep fresh for a year if kept in a cool, dry place.

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When it comes to the world of DIY skin care products, some are much better than others. Sometimes, you have to make the recipe a few times in order to get it right. Maybe you tweak a couple ingredients or adjust the measurements to achieve the results you want. We are happy to say that we finally landed on a quality all-natural sunscreen recipe that you will love. 

Typically, Americans have to choose between chemical sunscreens and mineral sunscreens. Chemical sunscreens have inferior stability and penetrate the skin, which can disrupt the body’s hormonal system. Mineral sunscreens that contain zinc or titanium tend to contain nanoparticles or they are micronized. With the DIY sunscreen in this article, you do not have to choose between chemical and micronized sunscreens. What you do get is a combination of natural ingredients that help protect the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. 

Beeswax

For centuries, many cultures have used beeswax for a number of reasons. Traditionally used to make candles, beeswax has a host of health benefits and can be used in various skin and hair care products. The Ancient Egyptians used beeswax to make paint and the Ancient Romans used it to help soften the skin. Today, research studies note that beeswax may form a barrier on the skin, protecting it from dryness and environmental assaults. It also attracts water to the skin, which helps keep the skin hydrated over time. In one study, beeswax and zinc oxide exhibited an ability to protect from UVA and UVB to a certain extent. That said, it had a lower water resistance value than other sunscreens. 

Non-Nano Zinc Oxide

Non-nano zinc oxide is the active ingredient in many natural mineral sunscreens. It has been proven to provide broad-spectrum coverage against UVA and UVB rays. The “non-nano” means that you can enjoy all the benefits of zinc oxide in the safest way possible. Non-nano zinc oxide sunscreen is probably the safest for your skin. It doesn’t pose the risk of entering your bloodstream, so you can steer clear of potentially harmful toxins that may exist in commercial sunscreens. Just keep in mind that not all non-nano zinc oxide is created equal. Zinc leaves a white cast on the skin, so some manufacturers have developed nano-sized particles to make it less chalky and more sheer after application. 

Jojoba Oil

This oil is a popular ingredient in many natural sunscreen products. Jojoba oil contains both vitamin E and an assortment of antioxidants. One study suggests that the combination of vitamin E and other antioxidant compounds can help protect the skin from sun damage. In addition to the vitamin E that’s naturally present in jojoba oil, the sunscreen recipe in this article also contains vitamin E oil. If you are sunburnt, you can use jojoba oil to help restore moisture and promote healing to soothe the skin. 

DIY Sunscreen

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup virgin, unrefined coconut oil
• 1/3 cup jojoba oil
• 1 tablespoon beeswax
• 1 tbsp organic shea butter
• 1/3 cup non-nano zinc oxide
• 1/2 teaspoon vitamin E oil

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients (except the zinc oxide) to a heat-safe glass bowl. 
• Place the bowl over a pot of shallow, slightly simmering water. Leave on the pot until the ingredients in the bowl are fully melted. Stir every so often to move the process along.
• Remove the pot from the stove and carefully take the bowl off the pot. Add the zinc oxide powder slowly and stir to combine. 
• Carefully pour this mixture into the container of your choice and store in a cool, dry place. Use when fully cooled.

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As people become more aware of the chemicals in commercial skin care products, they slowly transition to natural alternatives. According to research, the average woman applies more than 200 chemicals to the skin during her skin care routine. The skin can absorb those chemicals, whereby they end up in the bloodstream. Not only does this decrease the overall health and appearance of the skin, but it also causes internal damage to bodily organs and systems. 

Within recent years, carrier oils increased in popularity as natural options to improve skin health. These oils, which are not the same as essential oils, work to nourish, moisturize, and care for the skin. Carrier oils come from the fatty portion of a plant, typically from seeds, nuts, or kernels. In the case of avocado oil, for example, the oil is extracted from the avocado fruit. While carrier oils have countless therapeutic properties, not all are meant for every skin type. For example, one carrier oil that assists one person with acne reduction may not benefit another person the same way. 

Check out some of the most common carrier oils below and see which one works best for your skin type. When you purchase these oils, make sure to purchase high quality varieties. There’s one for each skin type, so if we somehow didn’t include one for you, let us know in the comments below. 

Carrier Oils For Oily Skin

Tamanu Oil

Known for the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties, tamanu oil helps to fight bacteria and accelerate wound healing. It comes from tamanu nuts and is an excellent oil for oily, acne-prone skin. Some preliminary research studies found that it may help reduce the appearance of stretch marks and scars. The anti-inflammatory properties may also help relieve itching associated with eczema. 

Sweet Almond Oil

Sweet almond oil is a hypoallergenic carrier oil that’s great for all skin types. It’s particularly beneficial for people with sensitive or oily skin. The fatty acids in sweet almond oil work to remove excess sebum, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Let almond oil clear excess oil so your skin can be clean and bacteria-free. It also has emollient properties, meaning it helps your skin retain moisture.

Carrier Oils For Combination Skin

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil is perfect for all skin types, working to enhance moisture and offer skin protection. Technically speaking, jojoba oil is a liquid polyunsaturated wax that has a similar consistency to the skin. Because of this, jojoba oil can effortlessly mix with sebum to form a thin, protective layer. Not only does it allow the skin to breathe, but it also keeps moisture in. It has the potential to fight acne and may even offer anti-aging and regenerating properties. 

Pomegranate Seed Oil

First of all, pomegranate arils are excellent for the skin because of the impressive antioxidants. The same goes for pomegranate seed oil, which works to promote a youthful glow by rejuvenating skin cells. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties offer protection for all skin types, and may even keep your skin safe from UVB damage. 

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil may be the holy grail of carrier oils. It contains a diverse mix of antioxidants and beneficial fatty acids that help protect against premature aging and moisture loss. Additionally, coconut oil exhibits antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fungal activity that may fight acne and candida. Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that is safe to use on dry, sensitive, or oily skin. If you have oily skin, however, don’t lather coconut oil on your face because it may increase the risk of breakouts. 

Carrier Oils For Dry Skin

Avocado Oil

Extracted from dried avocado fruit, avocado oil is a thick oil that can penetrate the deepest layers of the skin. Naturally rich in vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids, avocado oil helps to encourage cell growth and increase collagen production. People with dryer skin benefit from avocado oil because it noticeably improves moisture levels. Because it is a heavier carrier oil, introduce it slowly as a body moisturizer before slathering it on your face. 

Rosehip Seed Oil

This deeply moisturizing carrier oil is excellent for anyone who has skin in need of moisture. Rosehip seed oil contains vitamins A, C, E, and myriad antioxidants that contribute to healthier skin. It’s actually one of the richest plant-based sources of vitamin C, which is great for your collagen! The antioxidants work to reduce sun damage and may even inhibit the development of aging spots. The essential fatty acids in rosehip seed oil may also neutralize free radicals, which can reduce fine lines and wrinkles. 

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Cracked and chapped lips are not only painful, but also hard to conceal. You do your best effort to make it look like the skin isn’t flaking from your lips, but it may show through, despite your best efforts. Lip balm is a helpful product that can moisturize the skin on your lips, but it is even more beneficial when you have the right ingredients in the product. That is exactly the case for this peppermint elderberry lip balm. 

What Is Lip Balm Essential?

Lip balm is a soft, waxy substance that you can apply to the lips to ease the soreness or burning caused by chapped or cracked lips. The skin on the lips is very thin, so it is more prone to dryness than other areas of the skin. The waxy lip balm, then, essentially creates a protective shield on your lips. This helps keep the lips safe from air, wind, and colder temperatures. 

A lot of people will use lip balm to remedy chapped lips during the wintertime, but lip balm can be used year round. If your lip balm does a good job, then you will not need to apply regularly. The right ingredients promote long-lasting moisture, nourishment, and comfort.

Infusing The Oil With Elderberry 

In order to make this lip balm, you have to infuse the olive oil with dried elderberries and alkanet root powder. This is a powder that is effective for naturally tinting lips. Now, if you do not want this lip balm to tint your lips, you do not have to use it. You can simply use another teaspoon or two of dried elderberries. Additionally, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare professional before using products that contain alkanet powder. Traditionally, it is usually not advised. 

Although you can use sunflower oil or jojoba oil, we opted for olive oil, as it is highly nourishing. It is also a great oil for infusing, whether you want to make a lip balm or flavored oil for culinary use. The only thing to keep in mind is that the infusion process takes a couple weeks. Add the elderberries to the oil and keep in a sunny spot, such as the windowsill, for two weeks. 

After the infusion period, strain the dried elderberries and collect the oil in a container. If you store the oil properly, this will keep for about one year. Once you have your infused oil, you are ready to make the lip balm. 

DIY Peppermint Elderberry Lip Balm

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon shea butter
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1/2 tablespoon jojoba oil
• 1/2 tablespoon castor oil
• 1 tablespoon infused olive oil
• 1 teaspoon pomegranate seed oil
• 1 tablespoon beeswax pellet (plus 1 more teaspoon)
• 12 drops peppermint essential oil

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients (except the essential oil) to a heat-safe glass measuring cup. Place that cup in a small saucepan containing a couple inches of water over medium-low heat. 
• Keep on the stove until all of the ingredients are melted. Stir well to combine and then remove from heat. Add the essential oils once removed from heat. 
• Pour the mixture into lip balm tubs or tins and allow to set at room temperature before putting the lids on. Use when ready.

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A leave-in conditioner is a hair care product that you use after washing your hair and before you style it. More often than not, you apply it to towel-dried hair. Unlike traditional conditioners, which are washed out during the shower, a leave-in conditioner remains in your hair post-shower. By leaving the conditioner in, not only does it add moisture to the hair, but it also protects it from damage and helps detangle strands. 

Almost every hair type, be it curly, straight, color-treated, or natural, can benefit from a leave-in conditioner. You may find this leave-in conditioner especially useful if you deal with dry, damaged, or frizzy hair. A leave-in conditioner can also be helpful if you use heat-styling tools, such as straightening or curling irons. 

How To Use A Leave-In Conditioner

After you finish shampooing your hair in the shower, towel dry your hair before applying the leave-in conditioner. It will replace the conditioner that you’d normally use in the shower. That said, you can use both a conditioner and a leave-in conditioner if your hair is particularly damaged or dry. Ideally, use it while your hair is still damp, and follow the steps below for best results:

• After shampooing your hair in the shower, rinse thoroughly. At that point, you can use your regular conditioner if you want and then rinse out. 
• When you are done showering, gently pat your hair dry with a towel to remove excess water. Apply a small amount of the leave-in conditioner through your hair. You can start at the ends and work your way up to your scalp. 
• Brush your hair with a comb or brush (one that you are ok getting a little oily) and gently detangle your hair. Ideally, use a wide-toothed comb to help evenly distribute the conditioner throughout the hair strands. Allow the hair to dry, or you can style as needed. 

Why Should You Use This Leave-In Conditioner?

Unlike a lot of other leave-in conditioners, this DIY version is oil-based. The oils in it are very hair-friendly, some might say the most hair-friendly. The oils make it easier to brush or comb the hair, but it can cause the hair to look slightly oily. If you have an issue with this appearance, use it while you are at home. Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients:

• Argan Oil: Some people refer to this oil as “liquid gold,” primarily because it has been used for centuries in health and beauty applications. It can help moisturize the skin and hair, as it is rich in fatty acids, primarily oleic acid and linoleic acid. These healthy fats work to lubricate the hair shaft and help hair retain moisture. Due to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, argan oil also encourages a healthier scalp. 
• Jojoba Oil: This is the closest oil to sebum, which the body naturally produces. Because of that, jojoba oil doesn’t tend to make the skin or hair feel greasy after application. That makes jojoba oil a great choice for people with oily hair. It is quickly absorbed by the hair and skin, making it a popular addition to various skin and hair care products. 

Those two oils are the base of this leave-in conditioner recipe. If you desire, you can add a little rosehip seed oil or pomegranate seed oil during the winter or early spring, while the weather is still dry. Additionally, you can swap out the essential oils, but both rosemary and lavender essential oil benefit the hair and scalp. 

DIY Leave-in Conditioner

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon organic argan oil
• 1 tablespoon organic jojoba oil
• 5 drops rosemary essential oil
• 5 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

• Pour the argan and jojoba oils into a one-ounce glass dropper bottle. Add the essential oils and then screw on the cap. 
• Shake well to combine the ingredients and store in a cool, dark place until ready to use. 
• When ready to use, place a couple drops on your fingertips and run them midway through to the ends of your hair. Don’t add oils directly to the scalp, but you can massage the scalp after running fingers through your hair.

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Scalp care is having a moment, and for good reason. Too often does the hair receive more attention than the scalp, but you cannot have healthy hair without caring for the scalp. Think of your scalp as an extension of your face skin. You cleanse and moisturize your face, right? Well, the scalp deserves the same TLC!

The scalp has to put up with unwanted dry flakes and itchy patches, so you can say that it goes through a lot. More often than not, hair problems tend to result from poor scalp care. Since scalp care is having its time in the sun, we want to provide you with tips that help you keep your scalp hydrated, moisturized, and healthy.

Apply A Hair Oil Or Serum

If dry scalp or dandruff is not your primary scalp issue, you can use a scalp serum, oil, or moisturizer. These items help you replenish the scalp’s moisture, which in turn benefits the hair. You can also just moisturize with a carrier oil, such as jojoba oil or sweet almond oil. If you do this at the beginning of the day, make sure to wet your hair first to avoid too much oil buildup in hair strands. Use a cotton swab to apply it directly to the scalp. Experiment with a non-fragrant scalp oil, which may help add shine to your hair and control frizz. 

Avoid Shampoos That Contain Sulfates

There are many hair and skin care products (typically shampoos and conditioners) made with sulfates. It is better to avoid sulfates in shampoo because they tend to be a bit harsher on the skin and can strip it of natural oils. Avoiding products that contain sodium laureth sulfate is best because it can be overly stripping. Sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate are effective cleansers, but they strip the hair of its oil, which can cause dry scalp and strands. 

Keep Dandruff Under Control

Experts suggest that dandruff is a common cause of itchy or dry scalp. Redness, thick greasy scale, and itch are common symptoms of this inflammatory scalp condition. By keeping dandruff under control, your scalp will feel a lot more comfortable. For mild dandruff, try to cleanse with a gentle shampoo in order to reduce oil and skin cell buildup. You may have to experiment with several shampoos to find the one that works best for you. If these options do not work, consult a dermatologist for further treatment. You may even require a ketoconazole shampoo three times per week to control dandruff. 

Experiment With Scalp Oiling

By massaging oil into your scalp, you can help add hydration to both the scalp and dry hair strands. This is an easy at-home treatment for dehydrated hair follicles that will help prepare the hair for styling. A word to the wise: scalp oiling is not recommended for people who have dandruff, just dry scalps that require extra hydration. Scalp oiling may also help improve circulation and decongest the scalp. 

Visit A Head Spa

What is a head spa, you ask? A lot of people on TikTok make videos of themselves at these places, which offer head treatments that address dryness and buildup. Head spas are very popular in Japan, where scalp-focused services are readily available. If you are dealing with dryness, visiting a head spa for treatment may offer temporary relief, but a visit to the dermatologist may be necessary to get to the root of the problem. 

Exfoliate The Scalp

If you notice that you have a lot of dead skin and product buildup on the scalp, you can exfoliate the scalp, just as you would the rest of your skin. Just make sure that you do not overdo it with exfoliating. Over-exfoliating can irritate the skin, which is why you should only do it about once every one to two weeks. As a reminder, make sure to avoid exfoliating if you have psoriasis or eczema on the scalp, as the skin is already inflamed. 

Use A Scalp Scrub

If you have a dry or itchy scalp, using a scalp scrub may seem counterintuitive, but it is exactly what the scalp needs in certain instances. Scalp scrubs can help get rid of dead skin cells, which can allow serums and oils to penetrate deeper into the skin for optimal hydration. A scalp scrub can also help free up the hair follicles, which may increase hair growth.

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Changing weather, washing dishes, gel manicures and excessive nail polish use can wreak havoc on your fingernails. You may experience dry, brittle, or weak nails that easily split. Fortunately, you do not have to live with these nail issues. Take matters into your own hands and use the homemade strengthening nail serum in this article to help repair nails. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make this serum!

What Causes Nails To Become Weak?

The nails are made up of keratin, which is a protein that is also found in skin and hair. As you get older, the body starts to produce keratin at a slower rate, which can cause nails to appear dry, dull, or even brittle. As mentioned previously, though, a number of factors influence nail health. Extreme weather, excessive hand washing, or contact with chemicals can leave nails dry and vulnerable. 

Signs Of Damaged Nails

Although the signs may vary, you may want to take better care of your nails if you experience the following signs:

• Changes in nail thickness
• Peeling nails
• Nail discoloration (yellow nails, or nails with white or dark spots)
• Changes in nail shape (ridges or curled nails)

You can strengthen your nails with various natural remedies, such as moisturizing daily or ditching nail polish removers that contain acetone. The following ingredients in this strengthening nail serum help encourage healthier nails. 

Vitamin E Oil

Anyone with brittle, ridged, or yellow nails will find that vitamin E oil is highly beneficial. Vitamin E oil helps to hydrate and protect nails, fighting off bacteria and viruses. It also works to widen blood vessels, which means that it helps make your nails stronger and healthier with less ridges. Vitamin E oil also works to repair damage done by harsh nail polish removers. You can apply vitamin E oil to your nails and cuticle beds for maximum benefits. Plus, it helps to increase moisture to the nail bed and skin around the nails. 

Jojoba Oil

Regular application of jojoba oil can help boost the moisture content of your nail plates, making your nails less prone to flakiness. You may sometimes notice a whitish or yellowish accumulation under the nail if you have psoriasis. Jojoba oil may help thicken the nails, which works to restore your nails to a healthier state. If the keratin in your nail beds break down, you can experience splitting or breakage. Jojoba oil can help strengthen the nails, helping them become less brittle when they are exposed to harsh products or extreme conditions. 

Essential Oils

There are many essential oils that can help strengthen weak or brittle nails. Naturally, the serum in this article does not contain all of those essential oils, but it does contain lemon, lavender, frankincense, and myrrh essential oils. Lemon essential oil hydrates and strengthens the nail, helping to improve their natural shine. Lavender essential oil is excellent for cuticle care and boosts the skin’s firmness and elasticity. Frankincense essential oil has anti-fungal properties that help fight fungi, which can slow nail growth, and also adds moisture to nail beds and cuticles. Finally, myrrh essential oil is one of the best oils for keeping nails healthy and strong. It works to protect your nail beds from becoming brittle and thin. 

DIY Strengthening Nail Serum

Ingredients:

• 1.25 teaspoons jojoba oil
• 1/2 teaspoon vitamin E oil
• 5 drops each: lemon, lavender, frankincense, and myrrh essential oils

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients to a 10-milliliter glass bottle with a rollerball top. Screw on the top and shake well to combine. 
• This is a 10% dilution of essential oils, which may be greater than you are used to, so feel free to reduce the amount of essential oil drops you use if you have more sensitive skin or nails. 
• Apply two to three times per week, shaking before each use.

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Making your own beauty or skin care products does not mean your home has to look like a science experiment. You don’t need beakers of sweet almond oil, gallons of olive oil, tubs of shea butter, and essential oil dropper bottles around the house. A few simple ingredients can take you far on your journey toward a more natural skin care routine. The homemade facial moisturizer in this article is an easy entry point, provided you’ve been looking to get started.

Oils Moisturizing 101

To moisturize with oils may be counterintuitive for some people, especially if you have oily skin. Well, we are about to change your life. Your skin is most likely oily because it doesn’t get the moisture it requires. It likely over-produces oil to compensate for the lack of moisture. Before you just dunk your hand in a vat of oil, though, keep in mind that certain oils benefit facial skin, while others do not. That isn’t to say you cannot use them on your body, but facial skin is delicate and requires the right ingredients. 

Start With Your Base Oil

Before we get started on your base oil, just keep in mind that you should never moisturize a dirty face. Always cleanse your face in some way before you moisturize. Your base oil is your carrier oil, which makes up two-thirds of the facial moisturizer. Great carrier oils for all skin types are argan oil and jojoba oil. Not only are both of these oils very light and nourishing, but they are easily absorbed by the skin, so they don’t leave a greasy residue. Other oils you can choose from include:

• Apricot kernel oil: Great for any skin type, especially dry, normal, or aging skin.
• Sweet almond oil: This is an all-around great oil for the skin, but it takes a little longer to sink in than others.
• Avocado oil: Great for dry or aging skin. 
• Grapeseed oil: Great for oily, normal, or acne-prone skin.

Extra Nourishing Oils

For your second ingredient, you want to add a nourishing oil that builds on the benefits of your base oil. Some of these oils come with a hefty price tag, but they last a long time and have the benefits to boot. Here are some ideas for nourishing oils to add to your moisturizer:

• Rosehip seed oil: Known for its firming and anti-aging abilities, this oil is incredibly regenerating and great for dry and aging skin.
• Evening primrose oil: Whether you have acne-prone, normal, aging, or oily skin, this oil can help even out complexion and fight acne. 
• Tamanu oil: This is a wonderful oil for oily or acne-prone skin, or even skin with lots of scars. 
• Carrot seed oil: You don’t need a lot of this oil, which is superb for any skin type. 
• Sea buckthorn oil: A powerfully nourishing that benefits people with aging or dry skin. 

Add Your Essentials

Essential oils are potent, so a little goes a long way. There are so many essential oils with varying benefits, so it can be hard to choose which one to add to your DIY skin care products. Some are more intense, so always do a patch test on your arm and wait 24 hours to see if you develop a reaction before applying to the face. Never apply essential oils directly to the skin, as they require dilution to reduce intensity. Some great essential oils include:

• Chamomile essential oil: This is wonderfully soothing and great for all skin types, but it can be a bit expensive.
• Rose essential oil: A fairly inexpensive essential oil, rose is great for dry, normal, or aging skin. It is also possible to find this mixed with jojoba oil. 
• Lavender essential oil: Great for acne-prone, oily, or dry skin, lavender is quite healing, but just remember that a little goes a long way.
• Peppermint essential oil: great for oily or acne-prone skin, peppermint is very astringent, so it may tingle the skin. 
• Lemongrass essential oil: This oil may help brighten and tone the skin, and is beneficial for oily or normal skin. 

Homemade Facial Moisturizer

Ingredients:

• Base oil (such as argan oil or jojoba oil)
• Nourishing oil (such as rosehip seed oil or tamanu oil)
• 4-7 drops essential oil of choice

Instructions:

• Fill a small four-ounce bottle two-thirds of the way full with your base oil. 
• Add your bonus nourishing oil until the bottle is just about full. If you use carrot seed oil, just put a few drops in. 
• Add four to seven drops of essential oil, screw on the cap, and shake well to combine. Make sure to shake the bottle before every use. 
• Keep the moisturizer in an amber-glass bottle in a cool, dark place for eight to 12 months.

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If you start to feel a stuffy nose, you likely know what lies ahead. Before long, you feel a lot of sinus pressure and you cannot drain them properly. Perhaps you feel a headache from either the intense nose blowing or general congestion. You most likely have a sinus infection, or one has begun to brew. 

What Is A Sinus Infection?

A sinus infection, or sinusitis, is the inflammation of tissues in the sinuses. Your sinuses are the spaces in your forehead, cheeks, and nose typically filled with air. A sinus infection can cause facial pain, stuffy or runny nose, and occasional fever. More often than not, you can attribute a sinus infection to the common cold, but other viruses, fungi, bacteria, and allergies can cause sinusitis. 

If you experience long-term sinus infections, then you may have forgotten what it’s like to breathe properly. Is one nostril always clogged? There is no need to live with blocked sinuses, especially when there are many natural remedies that can relieve sinus pressure. 

Is It Sinusitis, COVID-19, A Cold, Or An Allergy?

Colds, allergies, sinus infections, and COVID-19 have very similar symptoms. The common cold typically builds, peaks, and then slowly disappears. It can last anywhere from a couple days to a couple weeks. Nasal allergies cause itchy eyes and nose, sneezing, congestion, runny nose, and postnasal drip. Allergies don’t tend to cause the same facial pain the sinus infections do. Additionally, COVID-19 tends to cause symptoms like shortness of breath and fever. 

If you want to avoid over-the-counter (OTC) drugs and experiment with natural remedies to help promote healthy sinuses, experiment with essential oils. The following remedies can help with nasal decongestion. 

Steam Inhalation 

This blend works to promote drainage and helps clear out the sinuses. In order to do this, you’ll need to follow the recipe below. 

Ingredients:

• 3 drops rosemary essential oil
• 3 drops peppermint essential oil
• 2 drops eucalyptus essential oil
• A blow of hot, steaming water

Instructions:

• Five to 10 minutes before you engage in this natural remedy, clear your nasal passages by blowing your nose. You can use a xylitol-based sinus spray to enhance the clearing if you want. 
• Add your essential oils to a large, non-reactive bowl filled with boiling water. 
• Grab a large towel, cover your head with it, and lean over the bowl, allowing the towel to create a tent over the bowl.
  Keep your eyes closed and inhale the steam vapors for five to 10 minutes. Repeat several times per day. 

The Cajeput Bath

Cajeput essential oil is distilled from the branches and leaves of the cajeput tree. This is a subtype of melaleuca, which is indigenous to tropical regions of Southeast Asia and Australia. It is a strong, antiseptic oil that can directly combat sinusitis, especially when inhaled via steam vapors.

Ingredients:

• 6 drops cajeput essential oil
• 1 tbsp jojoba oil

Instructions:

• Add the cajeput essential oil and jojoba oil to a small glass bowl and stir to combine. 
• Draw a warm bath and add the oil mixture to the running water. The water doesn’t have to be very hot. 
• Soak in the bath for 15 minutes and repeat this treatment once per day until symptoms subside. 

Warm Compress

For this remedy, you essentially soak a cloth in warm water that contains various essential oils. You then drape that soaked cloth over the nose and sinus area for as long as you desire. This should help clear the nasal passages. 

Ingredients: 

• 1 drop of each eucalyptus, peppermint, pine, tea tree, and lavender essential oils
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 clean piece of cloth

Instructions:

• Pour one cup of warm water in a non-reactive bowl and stir in the essential oils. 
• Soak your cloth in the bowl of infused water. Wring out enough water so the cloth doesn’t drip. 
• Place the cloth over your nose and sinus area for as long as you want. Repeat often, but be careful to not allow the mixture to drip into your eyes. 

Diffusing Blend

If you are not the type of person to hover your face over a steamy bowl of sinus-cleansing vapors, a sinus relief blend in a diffuser may be more your speed. 

Ingredients:

• 5 drops tea tree oil
• 5 drops eucalyptus essential oil
• 3 drops thyme essential oil

Instructions:

• Add the essential oils to a diffuser with some water and turn on the diffuser. Make sure that your diffuser can diffuse essential oils before you add them. 
• If you don’t like that blend, you can use the same measurements for marjoram, lavender, and myrtle essential oils, respectively.

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Have you looked in the mirror lately, only to see that your skin does not look as young as it once did? That is the curse of time, folks, but you do not have to feel ashamed. Aging is a natural part of life, but it can hurt your soul to see wrinkles or fine lines. Fortunately, there are nourishing ingredients that can help give your skin a healthy, youthful glow. And you don’t have to spend a fortune on these items, either!

Most people spin a lot of plates at once, so they don’t have time (or can’t afford) monthly facials and other self-care luxuries. What if you didn’t have to leave your house to nourish your skin with magical elixirs? Could you get behind that wheel? If so, then you need to familiarize yourself with various oils that help give your skin a nice dewy glow. The thought of putting oil on the skin might seem strange, but certain oils can actually help clean out pores, moisturize, and prevent the skin from producing excess oil.

What Does The Skin Crave After Age 40?

Your skin craves different things as you go through life. During adolescence and into your 20s, you do your best to control oil production and breakouts. Once you reach your 30s, collagen and elastin levels start to decline. That causes skin to lose its plumpness without proper hydration. 

When you hit your 40s, you may see wrinkles, fine lines, and even dark spots. Dryness around the eyes, neck, and lips is quite common, and your complexion craves nourishment to fight off environmental damage. After age 50, the skin becomes thinner and more prone to irritation. Your goals during this time are to minimize loss of firmness and prolong cell turnover. You want to prevent moisture loss at all costs. 

Benefits Of Using Natural Oils

Oils help provide essential nutrients that protect the skin from dehydration. Some of the key benefits of using oils include:

• Sealing in moisture to prevent dryness
• Helping other products penetrate the skin more easily
• Absorbing into the skin without leaving a greasy appearance
• Increasing collagen production to increase firmness
• Soothing inflammation and irritation
• Delivering antioxidants to help reverse signs of aging

There is ongoing research focused on the ability of plant-based oils to benefit from the skin inside and out. They are not as harmful as many commercial skin care products, which can adversely affect the skin. When choosing plant-based oils for the skin, it is better to select cold-pressed varieties because they contain more vitamins, fatty acids, and antioxidants. Continue reading to learn about the top four anti-aging oils. 

Argan Oil

Many beauty experts refer to argan oil as “liquid gold.” Argan oil provides a large amount of vitamin E and fatty acids, and it absorbs quickly into the skin, which helps improve elasticity. A 2015 study found that argan oil improved skin firmness and elasticity after 60 consecutive days of application. Study authors noticed a visible difference in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

Rosehip Seed Oil

Naturally rich in vitamins A, C, and other antioxidants, rosehip seed oil can do wonders for the skin. Researchers note that it exhibits anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and cell-regenerating properties, all of which help to reduce the appearance of fine lines, scars, dark spots, and wrinkles. One study found that rosehip seed oil was able to significantly fade surgical and burn scars in 180 patients. It also stopped premature aging and helped restore skin tone. 

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil mimics the skin’s natural sebum, which helps to balance dryness or oiliness. It may help to improve skin texture and tone because of the vitamin E and anti-inflammatory properties. In several dermatological tests, jojoba oil demonstrated an ability to increase the skin’s suppleness, the effects of which were effective as time passed. Continued use of jojoba oil helped to reduce superficial facial lines. 

Castor Oil

One of the great things about castor oil is that it is able to deeply penetrate the skin with fatty acids, helping to smooth out fine lines. Studies show that it may help fade scars and dark spots, which researchers attribute to the large presence of antioxidants. The antibacterial properties in castor oil can help clear up acne and moisturize dry, flaky skin.

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