Self-care is a buzzword that comes up a lot in the emotional and mental health spheres. More than just a wellness term, self-care is often a key component to any activity that helps you make your body feel better. Think of self-care for atopic dermatitis like alternative remedies that help lessen your need for medication in the long run.

What Is Atopic Dermatitis?

Atopica dermatitis (eczema) is a skin condition that causes dry, inflamed, and itchy skin. It is very common in young children, but it can occur at any age. Atopic dermatitis is a chronic condition that can flare up occasionally, causing red, irritated areas on the skin. Although it is irritating, atopic dermatitis is not contagious. Moisturizing regularly and following an anti-inflammatory diet, among other things, can help reduce the risk of flare-ups and irritation. Continue reading to learn more about some science-backed self-care tips of atopic dermatitis. 

Moisturize Twice A Day

Dermatologists encourage people with atopic dermatitis to moisturize within three to five minutes after a bath or shower. The reason for this is because the moisturizer helps to lock in moisture when the skin is still slightly damp. That creates a protective barrier and allows your skin to heal. Not all moisturizers are beneficial, with some being better than others for eczema-prone skin. Choose a moisturizer that is dye- and fragrance-free, and consider a skin barrier cream, which contains lipids and ceramides, both of which are present in a healthy skin barrier. Moisturizers that feel “greasy” are usually the most effective at protecting the skin.

Take Shorter, Cooler Showers

You don’t have to think about conserving water just because you have atopic dermatitis. That said, dry skin (a common trigger of atopic dermatitis) is commonly caused by hot water, especially if you are in it for a long time. When you shower in cool or warm water (not hot), the water is less likely to dry out your skin. Another tip is to limit the time you spend in a bath or shower to about five to 10 minutes maximum. Too much time in the water can irritate the skin. If you have a flare-up, a lukewarm oatmeal bath will help soothe the skin.

Try An Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Inflammation is a healthy response to injury or infection, helping to heal the body. In people with atopic dermatitis, the immune system remains triggered, even when there is no infection or injury. That excess inflammation is a contributing factor to atopic dermatitis. The foods you eat can either help or harm inflammation levels, regardless of overall health. Dietary strategies, such as adopting an anti-inflammatory diet, may help relieve symptoms. It isn’t a specific diet; rather, it is an eating pattern that focuses on more foods that help reduce inflammatory markers in the body. Click here to learn more about an anti-inflammatory diet. 

Use Gentle, Fragrance-Free Cleansers

Certain hand soaps, dish soaps, and face or body washes, especially those with fragrances. Soaps can remove the natural oils on the skin, and damage it as well. Mild, fragrance-free soaps or cleansers are the best for sensitive skin, or for people with atopic dermatitis. Try experimenting with non-soap cleansers that do not contain dyes, fragrances, sulfates, or alcohol, all of which can increase the risk of flare-ups. 

Find Ways To Reduce Stress

Stress affects many aspects of your health, and is a common trigger for atopic dermatitis symptoms. Finding effective ways to manage stress can not only benefit your mental health, but also your atopic dermatitis. Mindfulness is a great technique to help manage stress, as it helps you focus on the present moment. There’s no sense in worrying about the past or future when you can only control the present. Scientific studies have proven that practicing mindfulness regularly can reduce atopic dermatitis flare-ups. Along with lowering stress, mindfulness can help reduce itch perception, which triggers the urge to scratch. Meditation, journaling, and yoga are three great ways to practice mindfulness. 

Exercise is another great way to ease stress, but it isn’t advised for everyone with atopic dermatitis. Too much heat and sweat can increase itching and inflammation. Some helpful ways to exercise with atopic dermatitis include:

• Wearing loose, cotton clothes, which are less irritating than moisture-wicking fabrics
• Choosing activities that elevate your heart rate without making you sweat as much, such as Pilates
• Moisturizing your skin before and after your workout, and showering in lukewarm or cool water after a workout
• Making sure to hydrate with plenty of water during exercise to keep the body and skin hydrated
• Doing workouts indoors in climate-controlled environments so as not to heat up too much

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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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Do you suffer from crow’s feet, dark circles, or puffy bags under the eyes? Even if you hydrate throughout the day, those pesky bags show up the morning after. Sometimes, you just don’t get the sleep you need and you wake up looking like a zombie. Whatever the reason, puffy eyes and dark circles are not welcome and we have a great cooling face mask to help get rid of them. 

Don’t you just love getting food on your face? Sorry, let’s rephrase that. Don’t you love putting food on your face because it has healing properties that can improve the health of your skin? You don’t need a lot of food; rather, a cucumber, coconut oil, and some aloe vera will do the trick! If you want to get fancy and take things up a notch, add a few drops of carrot seed essential oil to help regenerate and renew the skin under your eyes. 

Unlike other face masks that we’ve posted in the past, this face mask is not a concoction that you lather on your face. After blending the ingredients together to form a smooth cream, you transfer the mixture to an ice tray and freeze. When your eyes are puffy, pop out a cube, apply all around the eye area, leave on for 10-15 minutes, and then rinse away. It’s so refreshing and cooling!

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil contains small- and medium-chain fatty acids that help reduce inflammation and enhance circulation. Both of those abilities make coconut oil an excellent ingredient for under-eye care, because the skin under the eyes is prone to puffiness and dark circles. The skin under the eyes becomes thinner as you age, making the blood vessels more visible, which explains the darkness that you see. Coconut oil works to strengthen the skin barrier, making those blood vessels less prominent. Additionally, coconut oil may help accelerate cell regeneration, leading to a quicker replacement of damaged skin cells with new, healthy ones.

Cucumber

One study found that cucumbers work to soothe the skin and reduce the appearance of swelling. Due to their water content, cucumbers help to replenish dry skin. Some research indicates that cooled cucumbers can help reduce inflammation and offer vasoconstriction to vessels in the eye area. Vasoconstriction helps to drive fluid away from the eye area, which helps reduce the appearance of puffiness and bags.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is highly beneficial for the skin, and is often used around the eyes to help relieve swelling, moisturize dry skin, and relieve redness. It may also help to repair damaged skin and treat sunburned skin. According to research, aloe vera contains nutrients (zinc, magnesium, potassium, and selenium), which offer antioxidant benefits. Antioxidants help repair damaged cells, which works to strengthen the skin and repair damage. Aloe vera also contains enzymes and fatty acids that help reduce inflammation. The amino acids may help reduce puffiness or general redness. Finally, aloe vera offers moisturizing properties that may help reduce irritation and inflammation. 

DIY Cooling Cucumber Face Mask

Ingredients:

• 1 large cucumber, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons unrefined coconut oil
• 1/4 cup aloe vera gel
• 8 drops carrot seed essential oil (optional)

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients to a blender and blend until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. 
• Transfer the mixture to an ice cube tray (preferably made of silicone for easy removal) and place in the freezer until frozen. 
• When ready, pop out one cube, apply to the eye area, and leave on for 10-15 minutes. If you added carrot seed essential oil to the face mask, make sure not to get it in your eyes, otherwise they will burn.
• Rinse with lukewarm water and pat your face gently to dry.

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For many years, people have been advised against using oils on the skin to keep it clear. For this reason, people purchase oil-free skin care products in hopes of achieving clearer skin. According to researchers, there are surprising benefits to applying oils on the skin. In fact, certain oils have soothing and calming properties that can benefit irritated or inflamed skin. Other oils can help cleanse the skin, remove makeup, and reduce the risk of breakouts. 

What Is Cleansing Oil?

A cleansing oil is an oil-based cleanser that has the ability to remove makeup, surface debris, and excess oil from the skin. They work differently from water-soluble cleansers, which have a gel, cream, or foaming texture. Those traditional cleansers use surfactants, which are ingredients that interact with makeup, surface debris, or oil on the skin in a way that allows you to rinse them away with water. If a cleanser contains hydrating ingredients, it will feel smooth and soft on the skin. Cleansing oils may also contain surfactants, but they are not the primary ingredients; rather, the oils do the work to cleanse the skin.

Benefits Of Cleansing Oils

First of all, the best cleansing oils for the skin contain non-fragrant plant oils. Those oils offer beneficial glycerides, which help remove grime, makeup, and more, while simultaneously hydrating your skin. Some of the primary benefits of using a cleansing oil include:

• They leave the skin feeling smooth and supple
• Compatible with most cleansers, should you want to double cleanse
• They aid with the quick and easy removal of most sunscreens and makeup types

How Do Cleansing Oils Work?

Oils do not simply moisturize or hydrate the skin, even though there is a difference between those two actions (click here for more info). Oils work as solvents, which are a group of ingredients that dissolve similar substances. If you remember chemistry class, like dissolves like, meaning polar compounds dissolve polar compounds. Polar and nonpolar compounds do not dissolve in each other, hence why oil and water don’t mix. 

Oils are lipophilic, meaning they are attracted to other oils, including sebum, which is what the skin produces. They are also attracted to oil-like ingredients in makeup, which is what gives them their ability to quickly dissolve makeup and excess oil.

Who Should Use A Cleansing Oil?

If a cleansing oil is made to be rinsable with water, then it is generally safe for all skin types. The use of a cleansing oil depends on a couple things: personal preference and how much long-wearing makeup or water-resistant sunscreen you wear. A good cleansing oil will break these products down easily. Just make sure that your cleansing oil does not contain any problematic ingredients, such as fragrances. Fortunately, you don’t have to worry about that with the following cleansing oil recipe. Please enjoy and let us know if it works for you in the comments below. 

Homemade Cleansing Oil

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup jojoba oil
• 1/4 cup + 2 teaspoons grapeseed oil
• 2.5 teaspoons castor oil
• 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon cromollient SCE
• 1/4 teaspoon vitamin E oil 

Instructions: 

• Once you’ve measured out all of the ingredients for the cleansing oil, pour them into a glass bottle, screw on the top, and shake well to combine. 
• Use as needed to help remove makeup or sunscreens.

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Dermatologists agree that dry scalp occurs when the scalp cannot produce or hold enough moisture. Just as is common for other forms of dry skin, dry scalp can cause irritation, flaking, and itching. It can also cause your hair to look dry, given that oil from the scalp helps condition the hair. 

People with dry skin tend to have an increased risk of dry scalp, meaning many of the things that cause dry skin also cause dry scalp. Such causes include excessive washing, dry air, and inflammatory skin conditions like eczema. Thankfully, there are many easy and effective ways to moisturize the scalp. Below, you’ll find the best tips to help keep your scalp moisturized and healthy.

Apply A Hair Oil Or Serum

If dandruff is not the primary cause of dry scalp, then you may have success using scalp serums or oils that provide moisture. Replenish your scalp’s moisture with one of those products at the start of your day. Before you apply the serum or oil, wet your hair first because you don’t want your strands to pick up the majority of the product. In fact, beauty experts recommend using a cotton swab to apply it to the scalp. Serums, instead of oils, may reduce the risk of clogged hair follicles, which can cause other issues. 

Avoid Shampoos With Sulfates

If you care about your hair, scalp, and skin, you will do your best to avoid skin and hair care products that contain sulfates. Some shampoos can strip the scalp of its natural oils, leaving it irritated and dry. Shampoos that do not contain sulfates are usually much gentler on your hair and scalp. If you have mild dandruff, consider cleaning daily with a gentle shampoo. If that doesn’t fix the issue, you may require a medicated dandruff shampoo. You may even need to experiment with more than a single shampoo or hair care product to address the issue. 

Cut Back On The Number Of Products You Use

Instead of adding more products to your hair and scalp care routine, you may need to take a step back and leave some out. If you use a wide variety of products, try to simplify your hair care routine. Eliminate harsh ingredients and chemicals, opting for a more natural and streamline approach instead. Too many products can mess with the pH balance of the scalp and create additional issues that you don’t want. 

Incorporate A Scalp Scrub

A scalp scrub may not seem like the correct choice if your scalp is dry, but your scalp may need it in certain instances. Much like exfoliating your skin, scrubbing your scalp can help to remove dead skin cells and excess build-up. That process can make it easier for oils and serums to penetrate deeper into the skin for optimal hydration. Scalp scrubs also help free up hair follicles for better growth. 

Exfoliate Your Scalp Every One To Two Weeks

Although a scalp scrub can aid exfoliation, you may not require one to address your situation. Another thing to note is that you do not want to over-exfoliate, and avoid exfoliation if you have eczema or psoriasis. A scalp massage brush may dilate blood vessels under the skin, which may encourage hair growth. If you use a scalp scrub during a massage with this brush, you may help slough away dead skin cells, oils, and anything else clogging your hair follicles. 

Try Scalp Oiling

If you regularly massage oil into your scalp, you may help address dryness or build-up. Scalp oiling is especially beneficial for dehydrated hair follicles, and it preps the hair for styling. If you have dandruff, however, avoid scalp oiling. This is a process that you should only do if your scalp is in need of more moisture because it helps boost circulation and decongests the scalp. 

Visit A Head Spa

Depending on where you live, a head spa may not be accessible to you. A head spa basically offers treatments that address things concerning your scalp. Think of it like giving your scalp a facial! These places stem from the Japanese practice, where scalp-centric services are offered at many salons. A visit to a head spa can be beneficial, but may only provide temporary relief if your scalp concerns are more serious.

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Sea moss seems to be on everyone’s radar lately. It is a type of seaweed that exhibits potent nutritional benefits when consumed. Studies suggest that it also benefits your hair and skin when applied topically in the form of an oil. That’s why making your own sea moss oil can be an incredibly rewarding experience, primarily because you have complete control over its quality.

What Is Sea Moss Oil?

This is a natural cosmetic made from Irish sea moss, or Irish moss, and nutrient-dense oils. According to researchers, Irish sea moss exhibits antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and hydrating properties. Plus, it is rich in many vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it great for the hair and skin. 

Making your own sea moss oil at home is quite easy, but you need to acquire some ingredients first. The primary ingredient is Irish sea moss, which is rich in carrageenan, a gelatinous substance that is commonly in commercial hair and skin care products. You need different oils to achieve the “oil” component of sea moss oil, though. For the most part, this recipe consists of different carrier oils and one essential oil (peppermint). The reason we chose peppermint essential oil is because it helps soothe inflammation, irritation, and itchiness on the skin and scalp. It may also relieve pruritus, a common skin infection that leads to rashes. 

Skin Benefits

Sea moss oil contains essential fatty acids, including omega-3 fatty acids, that play an integral role in the overall health and appearance of your skin. Fatty acids work to nourish and hydrate the skin, in addition to reducing inflammation associated with eczema and acne. The various antioxidants in sea moss and the different carrier oils may also offer some protection against ultraviolet (UV) rays and damaging free radicals. Carrier oils like jojoba, olive, and sweet almond help lock moisture into the skin, which keeps it from drying out.

Hair Benefits

Sea moss oil is rich in vitamins A and C, both of which nourish the skin and may promote hair growth. While vitamin A helps encourage sebum production to moisturize the scalp, vitamin C strengthens hair follicles, which helps prevent split ends and breakage. Sea moss oil may also benefit those who suffer from dandruff or scalp psoriasis. The anti-inflammatory nature of the ingredients works to reduce scalp irritation, while simultaneously promoting healing. 

How To Use Sea Moss Oil

Sea moss oil makes a great addition to your skin and hair care routine. Working to reduce inflammation, sea moss oil may improve skin elasticity and hydrate the skin. To use properly on the skin, place directly on your face or skin. You can also incorporate other natural ingredients like raw honey or aloe vera to create a nourishing face mask. 

The anti-inflammatory properties in sea moss oil help to soothe an irritated scalp. The moisturizing properties in the oils help to keep the hair healthy from the roots to the ends. For optimal use, massage the sea moss oil into your scalp before you shampoo. Alternatively, add a few drops into your conditioner before you massage it into your hair and scalp. You can also add some sea moss oil to your bathwater, as it can help relax tired muscles after a long day, while simultaneously softening the skin. 

DIY Sea Moss Oil

Ingredients:

• Irish sea moss
• 5 tablespoons apricot kernel seed oil
• 5 tablespoons sweet almond oil
• 2 tablespoons jojoba oil
• 2 tablespoons argan oil
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon peppermint oil (optional for fragrance)

Instructions:

• Wash the Irish sea moss to remove any debris or salt. Dry the sea moss and cut it into very fine pieces to place in a small jar. 
• Pour the carrier oils and optional peppermint oil into the jar. Screw on the lid and place the jar in a cool, dark place for at least two weeks. This will allow all of the oils to infuse with the sea moss properly.
• After two weeks, strain the remaining solids through a cheesecloth and transfer the finished product to a glass jar with a dropper top. It is ready for use!

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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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The skin can take a beating during the winter, and many people experience excessive dryness as a result. Crisp wind, dry and cold air, and heat from furnaces create an unfriendly environment for the skin. You may notice flakier, drier skin that’s prone to itchiness as the temperatures drop. And it seems that all the lotion in the world can’t get rid of the dryness!

Just like any other system or organ in the body, the skin requires nutrients that help it grow and repair on a cellular level. When you eat the right foods or focus on the right nutrients, you can help rebuild the skin’s natural moisturizing factor (NMF). This is a protective barrier that seals in moisture and protects the skin from environmental damage. It’s also beneficial to focus on water-rich foods that help hydrate the skin from within. 

We aren’t saying that your skin care routine is ineffective or outdated; rather, it may simply need a little enhancement. For example, using a moisturizer may prevent transepidermal water loss, but this won’t matter if the skin’s moisture barrier is weak. Attack the problem from all angles and your skin will be hydrated, moisturized, and supple before you know it. Continue reading to learn about the nutrients that will help hydrate the skin during the winter. 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Many dermatologists recommend people to eat avocado, chia seeds, olive oil, and fatty fish if they want glowing skin. The reason for this is because these foods contain omega-3 fatty acids, which help to improve the skin’s hydration. Omega-3s are an integral component of the skin’s lipid content, and they work to improve the barrier function. If the barrier is working properly, the skin retains more moisture and helps to keep irritants out. Additionally, omega-3s may support the skin by way of hydration and antioxidant photoprotection. 

Vitamin A

During the fall and winter months, it’s very easy to get your daily dose of vitamin A. Many seasonal produce items are naturally rich in this nutrient. Winter squash, sweet potatoes, carrots, or even collard greens and kale are excellent sources of vitamin A. Not only does vitamin A help to maintain skin elasticity, but it also works to fight inflammation, which can contribute to dry skin during the winter. 

Antioxidants

You can include vitamins A, C, E, and other phytonutrients in this category. Antioxidants work to combat free radicals, which can impair the skin’s barrier function and increase the risk of transepidermal water loss. Eating a wide variety of colorful fruits and vegetables can provide you with enough antioxidants to keep the skin hydrated. Astaxanthin, a unique phytonutrient, helps to improve skin elasticity and moisture levels. It may also protect the skin’s collagen layer. Other antioxidants may work to protect the skin from UVB rays and make positive changes to skin microbiome. 

Water-Rich Foods

In addition to drinking water every day, it can help to consume foods with high water content. Roughly 20% of the body’s water intake comes from diet, specifically fruits and vegetables. These foods also offer beneficial antioxidants and nutrients that help protect the skin barrier. Water helps to transport nutrients to your cells, while simultaneously getting rid of toxins. Keeping cells plump and healthy also discourages dry or dehydrated skin. Watermelon, cantaloupe, celery, lettuce, cucumber, radishes, and tomatoes are excellent water-rich produce items. 

Vitamin D

According to dermatologists, it’s easy for the skin to dry out if you are deficient in vitamin D, which is a fat-soluble vitamin. Vitamin D actually triggers receptors that help promote the formation of the skin barrier. Food items provide a low amount of vitamin D, so a supplement may be necessary. Consult with your doctor to determine the correct dosage for your body. As a general note, it’s often better to take a smaller dose every day, as opposed to a larger dose once a week. 

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When the weather is cold and the air is dry, it is very common to experience dry, itchy skin. This is especially true if you run the heater in your house during the winter. Staying warm is essential, but transitioning from the cold, dry air outside to the warm, dry air inside contributes to itching and dryness. That’s why moisturizers are necessary, but using the right one will change how you feel in your own skin. 

If you regularly moisturize, you probably know that you use more during the winter. Besides the outdoor and indoor air, the heavier clothing you wear in the winter can cause significant chafing. Maybe you reapply your moisturizer, only to feel dry again in an hour. Fortunately, there is a remedy in the form of the DIY body oil recipe in this article. Using a body oil in place of your typical lotion or moisturizer will help soothe dry or itchy skin and make your skin feel silky smooth. How does this DIY body oil do that? The ingredients nourish your skin and help it retain water, and you can learn more about how they do that below. 

Fractionated Coconut Oil

Fractionated coconut oil differs from extra virgin coconut oil in that it goes through a process that makes it remain liquid at room temperature. Extra virgin coconut oil is usually solid at room temperature, unless it is in a warm environment. Fractionated coconut oil is made by separating different types of fats in regular coconut oil, and two medium-chain fatty acids remain. It is one of the most versatile carrier oils available and absorbs quickly into the skin. It helps to seal moisture into the skin without leaving a greasy feeling. 

Vitamin E Oil

Vitamin E oil exhibits numerous health benefits for the hair and skin. It is especially beneficial for people with dry skin, itchy skin, eczema, or psoriasis. Derived from vitamin E, vitamin E oil can be applied directly to the skin or added to lotions, creams, or gels. It exhibits antioxidant properties that may fight inflammation and other properties that enhance moisture. Vitamin E oil is a common additive to moisturizers because it helps prevent dry, flaky skin. Some studies suggest that vitamin E oil provides temporary relief from itching caused by dry skin. Additionally, one study suggests that topical application of vitamin E oil may improve psoriasis symptoms. 

Lavender Essential Oil

Dry skin can overproduce sebum, the skin’s natural oil, to compensate for the dryness. That can lead to clogged pores and blemishes. Lavender essential oil exhibits antibacterial properties that can help kill acne-causing bacteria that may inhabit your pores. It also works to moisturize the skin and is non-comedogenic for pores. It is also an anti-inflammatory superstar, working to soothe irritated or reddened skin from the sun. 

Tea Tree Oil

Dry skin is no laughing matter and it can increase the risk of cracking, flaking, or even bleeding if you scratch too much. The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe dry skin. The best way to enhance moisture with tea tree oil is to mix it with a carrier oil and then apply it to the skin. Tea tree oil is very potent, so don’t apply it directly to the skin, as that may cause further irritation. 

DIY Body Oil With Lavender

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fractionated coconut oil
• 40 drops tea tree oil
• 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
• 15 drops lavender essential oil
• 8-ounce jar with lid

Instructions:

• Pour the fractionated coconut oil into a mixing cup and then add the tea tree oil and vitamin E oil. 
• Finally, drop in the lavender essential oil and stir well to combine the oils. Pour this mixture into a clean eight-ounce jar and screw on the lid. 
• If you have a little left over, treat your skin well right away!
• This is a wonderful body oil to use right after you shower. Make sure to shake up the oil before you massage it gently into the skin while your skin is still moist.

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Hard calluses on your feet can be quite uncomfortable. If they bother you, what can you do to get rid of them? These thick layers of skin form because the skin aims to protect itself from friction or pressure. Calluses typically look like raised, hard bumps of skin that are flaky, dry, or even waxy. 

If you play instruments, you can easily develop calluses on your fingertips. You can develop calluses on your hands if you do a lot of manual labor or if you lift weights. Calluses on your feet, especially your heels, result from wearing tight shoes, avoiding socks, or walking barefoot. The hardened skin actually protects that area from further damage, friction, or pressure, according to foot and ankle surgeons. 

You may go your entire life without experiencing a painful callus. In fact, you should ignore them if they don’t bother you. If they start to hurt, or you simply don’t like how they make your feet look, the following tips can help you remove them. 

File Away With A Pumice Stone

The rough, abrasive texture of a pumice stone can help shave away hardened skin. Most people agree that it is the most effective at-home callus remover. There are electric callus removers that essentially shave off dead skin, but a pumice stone is incredibly effective. Continue reading for a guide on how to use a pumice stone:

• Soak the affected area in warm water for about 10 minutes to help soften the skin. This step will make the callus removal process much easier. 
• Using gentle, circular or sideways motions, rub the pumice stone on the callus until you remove the dead skin. Stop as soon as you reach a layer of skin that is soft and healthy. If you continue to file, you may end up irritating healthy skin.
• After filing away your callus, make sure to rinse and dry the area before applying a gentle moisturizer. This step will help keep your skin soft and supple. 

Use An Over-the-Counter Moisturizer Or Callus Dissolver

If you prefer a gentler approach to filing with a pumice stone, use daily moisturizers to help soften callused skin. This may take a lot longer, but applying a daily moisturizer with smoothing ingredients like salicylic acid, ammonium lactate, or urea can help remove a callus over time. Urea creams can be great because they usually contain exfoliating ingredients, in addition to other moisturizing ingredients that soften irritated skin. 

Should You See A Podiatrist?

A podiatrist, foot doctor, can use a scalpel or surgical blade to trim away the callus if you have difficulty removing the skin at home. This usually is not necessary, but this will depend on the severity and thickness of your callus. Have a podiatrist tend to your calluses if you have diabetes or another condition that causes poor blood flow. A minor cut can become infected very quickly! A doctor can remove the callus without damaging healthy skin, which ultimately helps you avoid other complications. If you notice that your callus is red, inflamed, or pus-filled, see a podiatrist immediately because your callus may be infected. 

If you want to prevent calluses on your feet, there are things you can do once you remove your callus. You can wear a protective covering if you have a spot on your foot that is prone to friction. Felt pads, non-medicated corn pads, or even bandages can protect the area. Keep your toenails trimmed because long nails can push your toes up against your shoe, creating a potential callus over time. Lastly, wear comfortable shoes with socks, and consider getting shoes with a wide toe box so you can comfortably wiggle your toes. You may need custom orthotics from your podiatrist if shoes are an issue in general.

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