How do you use avocado oil? You probably use it in a variety of culinary applications, such as salad dressings, stir-fries, and more. Did you ever think to lather it on your skin, though? Just like olive oil, avocado is a great carrier oil that provides beneficial nutrients that may help improve the health of your skin. 

For starters, avocado oil can benefit your skin, especially if your skin is rough, dry, mature, or easily irritated. Avocado oil is naturally rich in oleic acid, which is a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid. It also contains linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid, along with vitamin E, phytosterols, and other compounds that help researchers understand avocado oil’s benefits. However, avocado may not benefit everyone’s skin in the same way. It is richer than lightweight oils, such as jojoba oil, so people with acne-prone skin may need to use it cautiously. Continue reading to learn how avocado oil promotes healthier skin. 

Fights Inflammation

If acne is a concern, will avocado oil improve the health of your skin? Avocado oil does help people with inflamed skin conditions, such as acne, due to the inherent anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. You do not have to strip your skin of oil to reduce breakouts. In fact, that may worsen acne symptoms. Some people, not all, find that avocado oil provides necessary moisture to the skin, which decreases the likelihood of sebum overproduction, which may cause acne. 

May Soothe Sunburn

One scientific review from 2011 determined that avocado oil is rich in vitamin E, vitamin D, beta-carotene, lecithin, and essential fatty acids. That makes it a great addition to after-sun care. Although avocado oil is not a replacement for mineral sunscreen, it may help soothe the skin and reduce the side effects of sunburn.

Supports Skin Barrier

The skin barrier is the skin’s outermost layer and it works to keep out harmful aggressors and maintain hydrated, healthy skin. It depends on fats to remain resilient, flexible, and hydrated. Avocado oil supplies emollient fatty acids that soften the outer layer and reduce feelings of tightness caused by dry skin. That is why you commonly see avocado oil in creams, moisturizers, shower oils, cleansing balms, and other skin care products. Although you can use avocado oil on its own, many people find that it works best when paired with other humectants, such as aloe vera or vegetable glycerin, or other ingredients that support skin barrier function. 

Exhibits Anti-Aging Properties

Aging is a natural part of life, but that does not mean you cannot do little things to fight that process. Collagen production declines with age, making the skin appear less youthful, dryer, and rougher. Consider using avocado oil to help combat skin dryness and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. A scientific review of plant oils observed the topical application of avocado oil on animal subjects. The review noted that avocado oil increases collagen synthesis and reduces the amount of inflammatory cells during the wound-healing properties. Additionally, research found that avocado seed extracts exhibited a protective effect against UVB-damaged fibroblasts. That means that avocado oil has anti-photoaging properties. 

May Improve Psoriasis 

Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune skin condition that causes inflammation and the development of scales or plaque. According to the results of a clinical trial published in the Dermatology journal, a vitamin B12 cream containing avocado oil revealed steady beneficial effects on people with psoriasis over a 12-week period. At the end of the study, researchers noted that the B12 cream with avocado oil had considerable potential for long-term topical therapy for psoriasis. 

May Calm Eczema-Prone Skin

Avocado oil is not a cure for eczema; rather, it serves as a supportive, moisturizing ingredient. People with eczema tend to require gentle, fragrance-free products that help encourage a healthy skin barrier and reduce dryness. Avocado oil is a natural emollient, so it may help soften flakey, rough areas of skin and reduce itching or discomfort that comes with dryness. One thing to note is that you should not apply avocado oil to open, infected, or actively weeping skin unless approved by your dermatologist. Always do a patch test to see if you have an allergy before applying liberally.

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Facial mists may be the most misunderstood of all the skin care products in existence. The role of a facial mist seems simple enough: it works to hydrate your face. That isn’t all these refreshing sprays are good for, though, as they offer more benefits than you realize. Not only do facial mists have skin-healing benefits, but their aromatic nature also promotes mental well-being. 

It may surprise you to learn that facial mists have been around for thousands of years. Historically, people used them between cleansing and moisturizing steps because people used to wash their faces with bar soap. Bar soap is very alkaline and mist tends to be more acidic, helping to rebalance the skin’s pH. The role facial mists play has remained constant throughout history, in that they prepare the skin for maximum absorption of moisturizers, oils, or serums. 

Facial mists refresh, cool, and soothe facial skin, but they also provide a few other benefits. Some facial mists exhibit rich aromas by way of plant extracts and essential oils. The powerful scents may lift your spirits, boost mood, and even promote higher energy levels. Depending on the ingredients, some facial mists may also give you an antioxidant boost. For those who wear makeup, a quick spritz after applying face makeup may give your skin a dewy finish. 

Mint

Mint is an integral component to many popular beauty products, including face washes, conditioners, shampoos, conditioners, and more. Loaded with aromatics and an impressive nutritional profile, mint leaves offer an array of healing properties. The menthol in mint exhibits strong antibacterial properties, making it an excellent toner and astringent. Mint also contains specialized plant compounds, including flavonoids, polyphenols, and carotenoids. They all help to reduce inflammation, which is why mint helps to fight acne. Mint also helps to control the secretions of sebum oil in the skin, drying up acne and cleansing pores in the process. Because mint is an astringent, it works to tone the skin, remove dead skin cells, and leave your skin looking more supple. 

Lemon

As a rich source of vitamin C and citric acid, lemon does wonders for your skin. Because lemons have a lower pH level, they work to decrease inflammation and oil that may contribute to acne development. The citric acid in lemon also works to break down dead skin cells that lead to noninflammatory forms of acne. Lemons also exhibit antimicrobial effects, helping to reduce the bacteria that leads to inflammatory acne. Some people who use lemon on the skin claim that it helps to increase collagen in the face. Vitamin C is a natural antioxidant, which may prevent free radical damage to collagen, leaving your skin smoother, softer, and healthier. 

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a common household plant with powerful healing and moisturizing properties. Applying a small amount of aloe vera to the face on a regular basis may help reduce the presence of acne, eczema, and sunburn. The anti-inflammatory properties work to reduce swelling, pain, and soreness, while the antibacterial properties reduce the risk of bacterial infection. In addition to supporting the production and release of collagen, aloe vera also supplies the body with water, helping to moisturize and hydrate the skin. 

DIY Cooling Mint Facial Mist

Ingredients:

• 8-10 mint leaves
• 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 cup rosewater 

Instructions:

• Add mint leaves and aloe vera gel to a blender and blend to combine.
• Pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve, collecting the liquid in a bowl or vessel. 
• Add the lemon juice and rosewater to the strained liquid and mix well. 
• Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and screw on the lid. Your mist is ready to spray whenever you feel like it. It’s beneficial to spray your face twice daily. 

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Don’t let your skin go another week without lathering it with this honeysuckle whipped body butter. It is creamy, anti-inflammatory, and highly moisturizing for the skin. Unlike store bought skin care products, this homemade body butter does not contain synthetic fragrances, harsh preservatives, or other chemicals that can harm or irritate the skin. Plus, making your own body butter is very easy and affordable, especially compared to store bought products of a lesser quality. 

What Is Honeysuckle?

Beloved for its aroma, honeysuckle is a very versatile plant regarded for its medicinal properties. The flower is a staple in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) because of its anti-viral, cooling, and antibacterial properties. TCM practitioners believe that honeysuckle clears “wind-heat,” “toxic-heat,” and “damp-heat,” or combinations of those three. When applied topically to the skin, it helps to cool and soothe irritated skin, especially rashes and eczema flare-ups. 

Studies confirm that Japanese honeysuckle flower buds exhibit anti-cancer properties, in addition to cryoprotective, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. A 2015 study deemed honeysuckle to be “a plant of phytopharmaceutical importance.” The study identified a large number of flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolic acids, and terpenes in the plant. 

Honeysuckle is naturally rich skin-enhancing vitamins and nutrients, which may help enhance complexion. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of honeysuckle. 

Sun Damage

Honeysuckle is naturally rich in saponins and flavonoids, which help protect the skin against free radicals that can accelerate aging and skin damage. If you spend a lot of time in the sun, make sure you use a moisturizer or sunscreen that contains honeysuckle or honeysuckle extract. It will help keep your skin safe from damaging UV rays and prevent damage by too much sun exposure. That said, honeysuckle will not prevent your skin from sunburn, nor will it stave off skin cancer. 

Eczema And Rosacea

Due to honeysuckle’s anti-inflammatory properties, it may help calm skin conditions like eczema and rosacea. Honeysuckle is very soothing to the skin and may help curb itchiness. Researchers note that Japanese honeysuckle extract is best for relieving any sort of skin irritation. 

Rashes

A rash is a body’s reaction to inflammation. That is why people use anti-inflammatory products to get rid of rashes. Because honeysuckle is naturally rich in anti-inflammatory properties, it is an excellent option to treat rashes and poison ivy encounters. Honeysuckle is also very gentle, making it a great option for people with sensitive skin. If you have honeysuckle extract leftover after applying it to your rash, you can add a few drops to a bath and soak in it for about 20 minutes to soothe the skin, or even sore joints and muscles. 

Grime

Honeysuckle exhibits antibacterial activity, so it may help cleanse or tone the skin. For this reason, it is gradually making its way into more skincare products. It has not demonstrated abilities to fight acne, but its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties suggest that it may help clean pores and potentially prevent breakouts. 

Homemade Honeysuckle Whipped Body Butter

Ingredients For Honeysuckle-Infused Oil:

• Dried honeysuckle flowers
• Carrier oil of choice (such as jojoba oil, coconut oil, sweet almond oil, or olive oil)

Instructions For Honeysuckle-Infused Oil:

• Place dried honeysuckle flowers into a pint-size glass jar and fill with carrier oil of choice. Make sure the honeysuckle is completely covered in oil. 
• You have a couple options to infuse the oil. The slow infusion method involves screwing the lid on that glass jar with oil and honeysuckle and storing it in a dark place for four to six weeks. Shake the jar every once in a while. 
• You can also place the jar in a sunny window for a few weeks to infuse the oil. 
• The quick double boiler method involves placing that jar in a saucepan with a couple inches of water in it and keeping it over a low simmer for about two hours. 
• Once you finish the infusion method, strain the oil through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth and keep in a glass jar, discarding the honeysuckle flowers. 

Ingredients For Honeysuckle Whipped Body Butter:

• 2/3 cup honeysuckle-infused oil
• 2 tablespoons beeswax
• 1/3 cup shea butter
• 1/2 teaspoon vitamin E oil

Instructions For Honeysuckle Whipped Body Butter:

• Pour the infused oil into the top of a double boiler over low heat, and then add the beeswax and shea butter. Stir until melted. 
• Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool for about 10 minutes. Place the bowl with the mixture in it inside the fridge to cool for an hour, or until the mixture is completely solidified. 
• Remove from the fridge and add the vitamin E oil. Use an electric hand mixer to whip the mixture for about three to five minutes, or until it becomes nice and fluffy. 
• Spoon the whipped body butter into small glass jars and screw on the lids. To keep the body butter fresh, store it in the fridge and it will keep for up to one year.

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If you are trying to achieve glowing skin and the smoothest complexion, you may think that you need a 10-step skin care routine. You may also think that you have to eliminate all sorts of foods and limit your consumption of others. True skin resilience begins with a more balanced approach: simplify your skin care routine and diversify your diet. You do not need to hit the beauty aisle and grab a cart-load of products, nor do you need to demonize so many foods. 

A lot of health experts believe in the gut-skin connection. Basically, you can prepare different meals or eat specific foods that encourage healthier skin. Below, you will find three tips that not only change how your skin looks and feels, but also how you feel in it. None of the tips are restrictive, which is a huge bonus.

Watch Your Blood Sugar

As a quick note, you do not have to track your blood sugar daily. Even if you do not track your blood sugar, your skin can tell you that something is awry. Blood sugar spikes can promote inflammation, which can trigger flare-ups in certain skin conditions, such as acne, rosacea, and eczema. You do not have to swear off carbs or sugar forever, though. Just know that it’s all about balance, and pairing your carbs with protein can help curb spikes in blood sugar. Instead of eating oats on their own, for example, add some Greek yogurt and almond butter to the oats. Ideally, consume 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of bodyweight, which is ideal for a sedentary person. A moderately active adult will need significantly more protein, with very active individuals needing a higher amount. 

Count Your Plants

According to research, the state of your gut can reveal itself on your skin. One of the best ways to support a healthy gut microbiome is by eating a diverse mix of plant-based foods. Some research from the American Gut Project examined stool samples from healthy individuals. The researchers noticed that the common denominator between the samples was that the gut microbiome was very rich. Most of the participants consumed at least 30 different plants per week. That is not normal for people who follow the typical Western diet, which lacks fiber and plant diversity. 

Most people eat about 14-16 grams of fiber per day, but the recommended daily intake (RDI) is 25 grams for women, and 38 grams for men. In fact, nearly 95% of American children and adults fail to meet their daily fiber needs. Keep things simple by aiming to consume five different plant-based foods every day. If you do that seven days a week, you will consume 35 different plant foods per week. When you go grocery shopping, your cart should look like a garden exploded in it. 

Eat More (Especially Protein)

It is very common to under-eat, especially protein. Your skin needs way more protein than you think it does, especially if you have wounds you are trying to heal. If you want to repair or enhance your skin barrier, you also need to focus on protein intake. Doubling your protein at meals can have a big impact, not just on your skin, but also on your energy, sleep, and overall mood. Protein is essential for skin health because it provides the aminos acids necessary for building and maintaining collagen and elastin, both of which work to keep your skin firm, elastic, and youthful.

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Waking up with puffy eyes, or even a puffy face, the morning after a night of crying or a very salty dinner is never fun. Those are not the only causes of puffy eyes, though. Common culprits include allergies, eye rubbing, or even underlying health conditions. Although puffy eyes can feel uncomfortable, you can use a variety of natural solutions to treat them, such as the under-eye treatment in this article. 

What Causes Puffy Eyes?

Sometimes, lack of sleep or stress is enough to cause puffy eyes or dark circles. Other times, your body may be trying to tell you to drink more water or eat foods that are less salty. Most health experts agree that the following causes can lead to puffy eyes:

• Salty foods can cause the body to retain fluid, which can lead to puffy eyes. 
• Dehydration, especially alongside a high-salt diet, can make your eyes puffy. When the body is in a state of dehydration, salt can concentrate in different areas, which pulls in water around the eyes and causes swelling. 
• Eyes can become puffy when there is excess fluid in the skin, for example, when you cry. That happens when fluid builds up in the eyes and does not drain normally. 
• Allergic reactions, such as contact dermatitis, eye drops, or even eye makeup can trigger under-eye puffiness. Allergies, in particular, can cause blood vessels to become leaky and cause swelling.
• Rubbing your eyes frequently, or even aggressive eye makeup removal, can cause low-grade eye trauma, which invites puffiness.
• Medical conditions, including some autoimmune disorders, infections, or inflammatory issues may lead to chronically puffy eyes. Contact your physician if you have any concerns about ongoing eye puffiness. 

Why Use Natural Ingredients?

Using coffee in a homemade under-eye treatment helps stimulate circulation and reduce swelling, due to the caffeine. The tea tree oil offers anti-inflammatory activity that works to calm irritated or inflamed skin. Together, coffee and tea tree oil form a power duo that helps address multiple skin concerns, making it a great addition to your skin care routine. Each ingredient offers a unique set of benefits, which we will detail below:

Coffee:

• Caffeine works to stimulate blood flow, making the under-eye area look more refreshed. 
• Coffee contains unique antioxidant compounds that help protect skin cells and improve the overall appearance of skin. 

Tea Tree Oil:

• Tea tree oil’s anti-inflammatory properties work to calm redness and swelling, even working to get rid of blemishes. 
• The antimicrobial properties work to reduce the risk of infections and may help alleviate breakouts caused by clogged pores around the eyes. 

Homemade Tea Tree And Coffee Under-Eye Treatment

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon brewed coffee
• 1 teaspoon tea tree oil
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil

Instructions:

• First, brew some coffee and set aside one tablespoon. Feel free to drink the rest, if you are in need of a caffeine boost.
• Mix the brewed coffee with the tea tree oil and coconut oil in a small bowl. 
• Using your fingertips, gently apply the mixture to your under-eye area by tapping. Allow it to sit on your skin for about 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water. 

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If you are looking to support the health of your skin, joints, and hair, you will need collagen. Many people purchase collagen powders or supplements and add them to their teas, coffees, smoothies, and more. Although collagen products are incredibly popular, most people are unaware of what collagen does and how they can preserve it. 

What Is Collagen?

Collagen is the most abundant structural protein in animals. A structural protein makes up the structure or framework of both cells and tissues. There are 28 types of collagen, but type 1 collagen accounts for nearly 90% of all collagen in the human body. Collagen is mostly composed of the amino acids proline, glycine, and hydroxyproline. These amino acids form strands that make up the triple-helix structure characteristic of collagen.

The body naturally produces collagen, but collagen production starts to decline some time during your twenties at a rate of about 1% per year. UV exposure, inflammatory diets, lack of sleep, harsh products, and stress can exacerbate this decline. For this reason, many dermatologists encourage a skin care routine that helps preserve collagen. Use vitamin C serum, experiment with retinol if the skin can tolerate it, and wear sunscreen if you go outside. 

Although there are things you can do to help protect collagen, one of the best ways to care for it is through a healthy diet. The food you eat can influence collagen production. Certain foods, especially those with antioxidants, can help protect the skin from free radicals and support the skin barrier. Continue reading to learn about five antioxidants that help keep the skin firm.

Astaxanthin

Astaxanthin is a carotenoid phytonutrient and powerful antioxidant that has demonstrated an ability to protect skin cells. Other studies confirm that astaxanthin can help preserve the collagen layer because it has impressive photo protective and anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers note that astaxanthin’s free radical fighting powers are five times more powerful than beta-carotene. It’s about 6,000 times more potent than vitamin C! Although vitamin C, which we will get to next, is a powerful antioxidant, it should not be the only one you rely on to encourage collagen production.

Vitamin C

You cannot talk about the skin without having vitamin C in the conversation. Vitamin C is a cofactor in the collagen production process. The skin’s fibroblasts rely on vitamin C to synthesize collagen. According to many studies, fibroblasts cannot effectively make collagen when vitamin C levels are low. Vitamin C works to stabilize the collagen molecule and preserve existing collagen by neutralizing free radicals. For this reason, researchers believe that ingesting vitamin C is the best way to support overall skin health. 

Blood Orange Extract

Blood orange is not in season all year, but it’s very popular during the winter months. What is even more popular, especially in the world of skin care, is blood orange extract. It contains numerous antioxidants, including anthocyanins and flavanones, vitamin C, and hydroxycinnamic acids, which are non-flavonoid phenols. That means that you get all of the benefits of those compounds in one extract. Due to the antioxidant power of blood orange extract, it helps reduce oxidative stress, which causes collagen breakdown. A 100-milligram dose of blood orange extract is effective at reducing proinflammatory levels of cytokine TNF-a in the body. Additionally, one study found that it was able to improve skin elasticity by 5.9% in just 14 days, and 13.9% in 56 days. 

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an oil-soluble antioxidant that helps support vitamin C inside the body. Vitamins C and E have a synergistic relationship, with one study confirming that vitamin E increased vitamin C’s efficacy eightfold. On top of that, vitamin C regenerates vitamin E after vitamin E scavenges for free radicals in the body. Finally, vitamin E can help protect against collagen cross-linking, a process during which collagen becomes hard and stiff. That process can cause the skin to appear hard and stiff, and it contributes to accelerated aging. 

Polyphenols

Polyphenols are plant compounds that are types of antioxidants commonly found in fruits and vegetables. According to research, polyphenols can help boost digestion, improve brain function, and protect against several chronic diseases. Additionally, polyphenols have proven effective at helping the skin manage UV exposure. That is particularly important because UV damage is one of the leading causes of collagen breakdown. Although sunscreen is the most effective way to protect the skin, eating more foods rich in polyphenols will help that process.

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You’ve likely seen an array of mushroom-infused products lately, from mushroom coffee and chocolates to adaptogenic powders and skin care serums. Earthy, rich, and powerful mushrooms have entered the health world in a big way, but they are far from new. For centuries, people have used functional mushrooms in various health and wellness rituals. 

Functional mushrooms are not just some passing health trend; rather, they are being celebrated for their unique, bioactive compounds. Modern science is now confirming what ancient traditions understood: mushrooms have health properties that support immune function, maintain skin health, and support energy levels. 

Why Choose Functional Mushrooms?

Chaga, reishi, turkey tail, lion’s mane, cordyceps, and other mushrooms are considered to be functional mushrooms. Unlike your standard white button mushroom, functional mushroom varieties contain unique compounds like triterpenes, antioxidants, and polysaccharides. Many of these compounds, especially beta-glucans, have been studied for their effects on stress response, physical performance, skin health, and immune function. 

Traditionally, people consumed these functional mushrooms in the form of teas, powders, or tinctures. Nowadays, you can obtain these mushrooms in more easily accessible formats, such as gummies, supplements, and coffee powders. Just make sure that you do your research before you purchase products, because you want to avoid added sugars and unnecessary preservatives, fillers, or binders. 

3 Functional Mushrooms To Try

You can easily incorporate many mushrooms into your daily diet, but it can be difficult to know where to start. Not all functional mushrooms are created equal, nor do they offer universal benefits. Consider your goals before you just start taking mushrooms at random. Make sure the ones you choose fit your health and wellness needs. Below, you will find three, well-researched mushrooms that support common wellness needs. Incorporate them into your routine to help improve skin texture, beat fatigue, and support overall resilience. 

Tremella For Healthy Aging And Skin Hydration

This edible, gelatinous fungus has been used for centuries in Chinese herbal medicine and cuisine. Due to the high levels of polysaccharides that function similarly to hyaluronic acid, tremella mushrooms have a unique ability to retain moisture. For this reason, you can commonly find tremella mushrooms in anti-aging and moisturizing products. A small study from 2021 found that a hand sanitizer gel with tremella mushroom extract was more effective than a placebo in moisturizing the skin. Other research indicates that the polysaccharides may decrease skin damage caused by UV rays. 

Cordyceps For Energy And Endurance

Traditional Chinese Medicine has used cordyceps, a genus of fungus, to help treat kidney diseases, renal dysfunction, fatigue, and cardiac dysfunction. More recently, researchers have focused on the benefits of cordyceps for athletic performance and energy. In fact, some studies show that cordyceps help increase oxygen utilization and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production. That is essential for optimal muscular function during exercise, making cordyceps beneficial for overall vitality and physical performance. A small study from 2024 monitored young adults who were either given a placebo or one gram of cordyceps prior to high intensity interval training. Researchers noted after taking cordyceps, people experienced less muscle damage and after cell repair. Not all research is consistent with these findings, though, so more studies are necessary.

Chaga Mushrooms For Immune Support

Some people refer to chaga as the “king of mushrooms” because it is rich in antioxidants and beta-glucans, to which researchers attribute the immune-modulating effects. Research indicates that chaga mushroom acts as a potent immune modulator, encouraging stronger immune function by increasing white blood cell production. Additionally, researchers note that chaga aids the formation of beneficial cytokines, while reducing inflammation in the process. Beneficial cytokines are specialized proteins that regulate the immune system. That could help the body fight infections, from minor colds to more serious illnesses.

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When you have a lot of rosemary on hand, you cannot simply make roasted chicken and potatoes for every meal. You can add rosemary to stocks, soups, or infuse it into oil, but eventually, you will tire of the herb’s flavor. Too much of a good thing is real…or is it? When you no longer want to enjoy rosemary in culinary applications, use it to make nourishing products for your skin and hair. 

Why Should You Use A Facial Toner?

Facial toner works to remove traces of grime, dirt, and impurities that remain in your pores after you wash your face. Adding a toner to your daily skin care routine can have a positive impact on the overall appearance and tightness of your pores. Turning back the hands of time? Although it isn’t the anti-aging secret of the century, facial toner does help to restore the skin’s pH balance, creating a smoother appearance and tone. 

Everyone can benefit from using facial toner, but people with oily or acne-prone skin benefit a great deal. The reason for this is because toner goes the extra mile to clean the gunk out of those pores. If you have acne-prone skin, though, consider a toner that contains salicylic acid. People with oily skin may benefit from toners that help to balance oil production. Continue reading to learn more about the ingredients in this homemade toner and how they benefit your skin. 

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a common ingredient in many DIY face washes, acne spot cleansers, and toners. At this time, there isn’t sufficient research or scientific evidence to support the use of apple cider vinegar for facial skin care. That said, there are many anecdotal reports that suggest it works wonders for the skin. Apple cider vinegar works to remove excess oil, dirt, and other debris from pores. When incorporated into a toner or cleanser, apple cider vinegar can aid your skin-cleansing efforts. Because it is an astringent, apple cider vinegar lends itself to toners, creating more even skin tone and tighter pores. 

Rosemary

Rosemary, specifically rosemary oil, acts as a refreshing astringent that helps to balance skin tone. Topical application of this oil can help decongest oily skin types and acne-prone skin, while simultaneously maintaining the skin’s balance. The antimicrobial properties of rosemary help to invigorate the skin and increase circulation to the skin’s surface, contributing to a more youthful glow. Rosemary works to hydrate the skin and control oil production, while also providing antibacterial properties that help to keep breakouts at bay. Additionally, the use of rosemary oil on the skin has been associated with less flaking and dryness. It is a common ingredient in skin care products because it encourages healthier skin tissues. 

Homemade Facial Toner With Rosemary

Ingredients:

• 2 cups water
• 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

• Combine the water and rosemary in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and allow it to simmer until the liquid has reduced by half. 
• Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the liquid to cool before straining it through a fine mesh strainer and into a glass jar. 
• Pour in the apple cider vinegar and mix well to combine. 
• When ready to use, shake well to combine, dip a cotton ball or pad in the mixture, and gently pat your face with it to apply. 
• Leave for a minute or so and then follow with your favorite moisturizer.

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It is very common for people to neglect their feet. They are out of sight, out of mind, especially when the weather is a little colder. Only when the socks come off and the sandals come on do people realize that they need to do something about their cracked heels. After all, nobody wants to walk barefoot in the grass and have those thin blades enter those cracks. 

What Are Cracked Heels?

Cracked heels are very common and they occur when the dry, thick skin on the bottoms of your heels crack and split. Most cases are relatively minor and cracks are only a small nuisance or unattractive to look at. If you do not treat the cracks and heel fissures become deeper, you may experience difficulty walking or have a higher risk of infection. 

Cracked heels are not an overnight problem. In the beginning stages, you will see dry, hard skin around the heel, also known as calluses. As you walk and put more pressure on that area, the pads under your heels expand and force those calluses to develop small cracks. Other factors that contribute to cracked heels include:

• Hard or unsupportive footwear (open-back sandals or flip flops)
• Obesity
• Chronic health conditions, such as diabetes
• Being on your feet for long periods of time, especially on hard surfaces
• Walking around barefoot because that provides not support or protection for your feet
• Taking long, hot showers

How Do You Treat Cracked Heels?

You treat cracked heels the same way you treat dry skin: you moisturize. If the cracks are minor, moisturize your heels two to three times per day to help relieve symptoms. You can also use a pumice stone before moisturizing to help remove any hard, dead skin that prevents the moisturizer from penetrating the skin effectively. After one week of this general foot care, check to see if symptoms are better or worse. If your heels have not gotten any better, you may need a combination of some of the following treatments:

• Use a dermal foot balm for skin nourishment and optimal moisture. This is similar to a moisturizer, only it uses urea, an ingredient that helps increase the balm’s efficacy. 
• Mechanical debridement of thick calluses or fissures using a scalpel blade to reduce skin buildup. 
• Foot and ankle strapping, which involves placing bandages around the heel to reduce skin movement. 
• Using appropriate footwear that provides sufficient cushion to the heel pads. 

Using A Heel Balm

Natural ingredients can help heal and protect your rough, dry and cracked heels. Specifically, shea butter, a featured ingredient in this DIY cracked heel balm, works effectively because of its emollient properties. It is also rich in anti-inflammatory properties and vitamins A and E. Dry skin can thoroughly absorb shea butter because of the fatty acid content. That helps create a protective moisture barrier on the heels, keeping them hydrated. 

Coconut oil is another ingredient in this cracked heel balm that helps moisturize and protect the skin. Just like shea butter, coconut oil offers anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce swelling and redness. Beeswax works to enhance the skin barrier, protecting your heels from the environment. This barrier helps lock in moisture and protect the skin from future damage. 

DIY Cracked Heel Balm

Ingredients:

• 1.7 ounces unrefined shea butter
• 0.2 ounces coconut oil
• 0.2 ounces beeswax pellets
• 2-3 drops peppermint essential oil
• 2-3 drops tea tree oil
• 2 drops vitamin E oil

Instructions:

• Add the shea butter, coconut oil, and beeswax pellets to the top of a double boiler over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until liquid.
• Once melted, remove from the heat and allow to cool for a few minutes before adding the essential oils and vitamin E oil. 
• Stir to combine and then transfer to a glass container. Allow the balm to solidify at room temperature. 
• Ideally, use this balm nightly on your feet, massaging it into your heels before applying socks to protect your skin overnight, and to prevent the balm from staining your sheets.

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There is nothing wrong with getting a little sun, especially when the weather is pleasant. It is easy to spend most of the day at the beach, in the park, in the garden, or by the pool. Problems arise if you do not take proper care of the skin when you are in the sun. While sunshine is necessary for vitamin D production in the body, too much sun can lead to a nasty sunburn, even if you are not in full summer heat. 

What Is A Sunburn?

All it takes is some sun exposure without proper protection and the result is red, itchy skin that is warm to the touch. When you have a sunburn, ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning bed burn the skin. Some people get sunburns just doing everyday things like gardening without sunscreen or taking a lunch break outside. If you get sunburnt often, you increase your risk of premature skin aging and skin cancer. Fortunately, you can take steps to reduce sunburn risk by applying sunscreen, being in the shade between periods of sunshine, and wearing protective clothing. You can also: 

• Wear a hat to cover your head, neck, and ears (depending on the hat)
• Stay out of the sun during the most intense hours of sunshine (about noon to four in the afternoon)
• Wear light colored clothing to repel the sun’s rays

Getting out of the sun during intense hours may not always be convenient. You could be at a ball game, a child’s soccer practice, or at a work function. Tank tops and shorts leave skin exposed, and even the best sunscreen may not fully protect the skin. You also have to worry about the severity of skin damage from sunburn. The two most common types of sunburn are:

• First-degree sunburn, which damages the skin’s outer layer, typically heals on its own within a few days to a week. 
• Second-degree sunburn, which damages the middle section of the skin (dermis), can result in blisters on sunburned skin. The skin can take a couple weeks to heal and you may require medical treatment. 

How Common Is Sunburn? 

Sunburns are very common, especially in young people, as they are not as careful about applying sunscreen and taking other measures to protect the skin. Somewhere between 50% and 75% of children under the age of 18 have sunburns every year. More than 50% of adults between ages 18 and 29 reported having one or more sunburns in 2015. If you have a sunburn, the good news is that you can treat it on your own. Some easy ways to promote accelerated healing include:

• Take a cool bath or shower, or experiment with an oatmeal or baking soda bath to soothe irritated skin.
• Cover your sunburned skin when you go outside so that you do not worsen your existing sunburn.
• Once the skin is cool, stop ongoing damage by applying ointments or petroleum jelly to the affected area. These will help moisturize the skin and aid healing without scarring. 
• Drink a lot of water to avoid dehydration. 
• Use topical cooling and hydrating products, such as creams or aloe vera gel.
• Use the sunburn relief lotion bars (recipe below), which contain ingredients that help to soothe and soften sunburned skin, while aiding quicker recovery in the process.

DIY Sunburn Relief Lotion Bars

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup coconut oil
• 4 tablespoons shea butter
• 1/2 cup dried chamomile 
• 6 tablespoons beeswax
• 4 tablespoons aloe vera gel
• 20 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

• Preheat your oven to 200 degrees F. Add the coconut oil, shea butter, and chamomile to an oven-safe pan or saucepan and place in the oven for two hours to infuse the chamomile into the oil and shea butter.
• Remove from the oven, strain the oil, and discard the chamomile. 
• In the same pan or saucepan, add the infused oil and beeswax and then place the pan back in the oven so the beeswax can infuse with the already melted mixture. 
• Remove from the oven and stir in the aloe vera gel and lavender essential oil.
  Pour into silicone molds or ice cube trays and allow them to completely solidify at room temperature. 
• Once firm, pop the bars out of the molds and store in the fridge in an airtight container in the fridge if you want a cooling effect. They will keep fresh for up to six weeks. 
• Apply to sunburned skin as needed.

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