Herbs have been used in maintaining and enhancing the condition of the skin since time immemorial. More recently the use of essential oils and nutrients has been incorporated into our skin care rituals. Herbs, nutrients and essential oils offer a range of actions that directly impact the epidermal and dermal layers of the skin promoting a reduction in damage to skin cells as well as promoting the overall health of the skin by maintaining good moisture levels and sebum balance. Actions of these herbs and nutrients are many and varied including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, astringent, moisturising and anti-microbial as well as anti-ageing effects. Some key skin care ingredients have more than one beneficial action.

With any skin care products, there are base ingredients that provide essential nutrition and a moisturising effect where as active ingredients are more likely to have a therapeutic effect on the skin.

One of the key base ingredients used in skin care formulations is Aloe barbadensis gel. Aloe has a powerful soothing, calming effect on skin and so is good on mild burns and sunburn. It is also an excellent moisturiser with good penetration qualities ensuring it carries synergistic nutrients through to the deeper layers.

Avocado oil is another penetrating base ingredient that can rapidly transport active substances into the skin. Rich in lecithin, plant sterols and fat soluble vitamins, it has a protective effect on the skin as well as being an excellent carrier. Avocado oil is ideal for drier skin that is finely textured.

Jojoba oil is a unique base ingredient as it is very fine liquid wax that is completely stable to oxidation. It penetrates into the dermis layer, enhancing skin hydration and softness as well as helping reduce fine lines. Jojoba oil is ideal for all skin types however it is light enough to be used for oily skin as well.

Active ingredients are needed in smaller quantities than base ingredients and are considered to have a more targeted and therapeutic effects. Alpha lipoic acid is a nutrient that is used extensively as an internal antioxidant. Increasingly it is also being used in skin care as a topical antioxidant. The unique benefit of Alpha lipoic acid is that it works to dampen free radical damage in both the watery and oily part of our cells. It also works to regenerate other important skin antioxidants, such as Vitamins C and E.

Vitamin B5 is another ingredient used both internally as well as topically to great effect. It acts to hold water in the epidermal layer of the skin as well as promoting skin healing.

Another herb you may recognise is Ginkgo biloba. Due to its very high level of bioflavanoids, Ginkgo can help reduce free radical damage, one of the promoters of skin ageing. Internally Ginkgo works to improve circulation. Externally the herb also has this effect, working to improve the microcirculation under the eyes and thereby reducing the appearance of dark circles.

Tea is becoming an increasingly popular ingredient in skin care as well. In particular Green Tea Leaf extract which is derived from the unopened bugs of the camellia sinensis plant. White Tea is a powerful antioxidant which reduces sun damage as well as boosting cellular immune function.

One novel ingredient that stems from a natural source is Squalene from olive oil. Squalene works on the epidermal layer of the skin to help protect against moisture loss as well as having a deeper effect on the dermis by improving skin elasticity. As a carrier it also effectively delivers active ingredients into the skin.

Essential oils are also prevalent in many modern skin and hair care ranges. Among the most popular are Chamomile, a very effective anti-inflammatory ingredient ideal for red or sensitive skin, Geranium an astringent ideal for combination and oily skin types and Jasmine which is used for dry and aggravated skin and scalp.

Herbs, nutrients and essential oils now have an established place in skin care as is evidenced by the variety of product ranges now routinely including one or a number of these natural ingredients. The benefits to the skin are considerable and these ingredients can certainly enhance the effect of the products you use and of course enhance the look and feel of your skin.

For more information about natural & organic skin care products contact Ananda Mahony ND at http://www.vitalenatural.com.au or at info@vitalenatural.com.au

As a naturopath Ananda has been involved in the natural skin care industry for many years. She specialises in the treatment of skin disorders such as acne, eczema, rosacea and dermatitis as well as anti-aging.

Please include this credit if you use this article.

Here are a list of beauty fruits that can give your skin a boost. Give it a try and your skin will thank you for them

Beauty Fruit 1: Apples

Apples are a great conditioner and toner for your skin. They have amazing skin-healing powers and have been used as a beauty aid for centuries. Add a cup of apple juice to your bath to cleanse and soften your skin. The juice of apple can be used as a breathe freshener too. Apple juice when applied to your hair scalp can prevent dandruff. Use as a final rinse after shampooing your hair. Also, remember, apples are filled with pectin – essential for fighting the dreaded acne

Beauty Fruit 2: Lemons

A classic home beauty ingredient. Lemons are used to cleanse and freshen the skin and hair. Use lemon slices to soften rough skin spots such as elbows and heels. Lemon slices also help deodorize and mix a few teaspoons of lemon juice in your bath and you will feel fresh the whole day. Lemon juice can be added to your favourite cleanser or shampoo to refresh and tone your scalp. It also helps prevent dandruff. Lemon rinds can be rubbed on to scars as it aids healing. Lemon is a ,natural bleach it can help to fade out dark spots and acne scars too

Beauty Fruit 3: Bananas

Banana is a great emollient for your skin and hair. They are rich in protein and natural fats and can be used on all skin types. An easy facemask that will make your skin supple is to apply mashed banana all over your skin and leave it on for 2o minutes, rinse off with warm water and moisturize after that. Mashed banana also makes a wonderful hair conditioner when mixed with a 1 tablespoon of honey. Perfect for keeping hair beautiful even if dyed regularly

Beauty Fruit 4: Pineapple

Like papaya, pineapples are great skin softeners, which cleanses and rejuvenates dull and dry skin. Use pineapple slices on rough skin spots like knees, elbows, and heels. Use a slice of pineapple as you would a sponge or loofah to scrub your body in the bath or shower.

Beauty Fruit 5: Papaya

Papaya- rich in papain enzyme and Vitamin A, is the best treatment for exfoliating your skin. For having a fresh and glowing skin apply mashed papaya and 3 teaspoons of aloe vera gel and massage all over your body monthly. Leave on your skin for no more than five minutes and rinse thoroughly. Use it with caution for the first time as it may sometimes irritate sensitive skin.

Beauty Fruit 6: Peaches

Peaches are highly emollient and perfect for dry skin types. Mash a fresh peach and combine with a tablespoon of plain yogurt to make a smooth paste. Apply on the skin and leave it on for 20 mins and then rinse off with warm water. Your skin will feel moisturized and supple to the touch.

So, why not start munching on all these healthy fruits and leave some to be applied on your skin too. They are scrumptious and oh so irresistible. They can satisfy your sweet tooth and none of the calories!

For beauty tips and secrets: http://www.beauty-tyrant.blogspot.com

A laugh a day keeps your worries at bay: http://www.free-jokes-daily.blogspot.com

For marketing tips: http://www.physics-of-marketing.blogspot.com

Clinique skin care items are some of the most well-known skin care items on the market. Some are beloved by millions of females, and even males, throughout the world, and particularly in North America, Eastern Asia and Europe. Clinique products and solutions are superior quality, efficient products and solutions tested by dermatologists for allergy typical reactions to ensure they’re suitable to everybody. All Clinique skin regimen products are also fragrance free. They are really great for sensitive skins.

Clinique is a prominent manufacturer of skin care solutions and has thus a huge assortment of cleansers and make-up removers, exfoliators and masks, moisturizers, serums, eye and lip care products, and body care products, as well as de-aging products, treatments for redness and acne, treatments for pores, radiance and uneven skin tone products. This product was tested by skin experts who specialize in skin allergies. So you are guaranteed a skin product regimen that knows exactly your skin needs and sensitivities.

Imagine, how disastrous it can be if you use just about any product offering a promise of youthful skin glow and rejuvenation and yet yield otherwise. With this skin care product, you need not worry a thing. It’s primary components are safe for sensitive skin, meaning there are practically no harmful chemicals added to these products. This combines the finest barrier restoratives and skin comforters from nature. A world of comfort!

Clinique dermatological items are incredibly well-liked and therefore relatively easy to find in most department stores. However, you may need to order the solutions on the internet. You’ll find a few great online stores widely popular among women which have a huge variety of Clinique products and solutions and do not charge for shipping and delivery. In case you can’t find what you want near you, ensure you pay a visit to this web site!

Seth writes a fashion blog about skin care rejuvenation, beautification and more. You can read information on how to revitalize your skin at his blog: Clinique Skin Care.

There is great news in skin care! You can actually make your own organic skin care products at home and get great results. So if you are into the more natural way of maintaining your hair and skin, you should try some of these recipes and enjoy not only making them, but also using them.

Yogurt

If you want a great cleanser that moisturizes as well, you should opt for plain yogurt. You can add a little honey to the mixture and spread it right onto your face. Avoid your eyes, just in case they are sensitive to the mixture. Leave it on your face for about ten minutes and then wash off with water. You will love the silky way your skin feels after using your yogurt cleanser. You can even use this several times a day. Be sure to store it in the refrigerator.

Eggs

Raw eggs are wonderful for fast face masks. Simply beat two eggs, a little water, and some honey into a bowl. Rub it onto your face and let it dry for fifteen minutes. After it dries, wash it off well. Be sure to keep it away from your eyes and mouth. Raw eggs can contain bacteria and you don’t want to eat them. This is a great way to lightly exfoliate your skin as well.

As you can see, you don’t need to spend a fortune to get great facial products. Just look in your kitchen and see what you can make with the ingredients you already have. You just might be shocked at how well these natural products work.

Jeanette Pollock is a freelance author and website owner of skincare-101.com. Visit Jeanette’s site to learn more about skin care recipes [http://www.skincare-101.com/2006/07/10/homemade-skin-care-recipes/].

When you have sensitive skin, you can go round and round trying to find something that works for you. Just because your skin is sensitive doesn’t mean you should not use cleanser however. Use these tips to help find a skin care plan and products that work for your sensitive skin.

Check Ingredients

The best thing you can do for your sensitive skin is to limit your skin care routine to products that don’t have fragrance in them. Even with your makeup, you should avoid fragrance. Most products you buy at the drug store will contain fragrance. However, you can find some products in department stores that don’t have any added fragrance and will be so good for your skin.

Stick With It

When you do find something that works for your skin, you should always be sure to be consistent. Don’t think that just because your skin is doing so well that you should change your routine or your products. When your skin is accustomed to one skin care routine and you switch it without much notice, it may react negatively. So, when you do find something that works, stick with it!

Sunscreen

One great way to take care of your sensitive skin is to always use sun screen. The sun can make your skin even more sensitive. You should check out products by the brands you trust so you can be sure your skin will tolerate them well. In addition, you should only use sunscreen on your face that is safe for facial use.

Jeanette Pollock is a freelance author and website owner of skincare-101.com. Visit Jeanette’s site to learn more about skin care for sensitive skin [http://www.skincare-101.com/2006/07/11/skin-care-for-sensitive-skin/].

Although walnut oil is used in cookery, it is an excellent skin care oil that leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth, and you feeling great. When you consider that its major ingredients include Omega-3 fatty acids that are very easily absorbed by the skin, it is little wonder that this oil is such a popular natural skin care product.

A major problem with the commercial skin care oils and lotions available in most stores is that they contain synthetic chemicals such as detergents and surfactants that can irritate your skin. You might not notice at first, but eventually might feel a tightening as your skin dries up, rather than being left with a silky feeling such as that provided by walnut oil. This drying sensation is caused by the astringency of many modern cheap ‘skin care’ products formulated with inexpensive mass-produced chemicals.

This is not the case with skin care products based upon walnut oil. That is because, rather than containing detergents that cleanse your skin fairly harshly, this is what is known as a regenerative oil that is particularly effective on more mature skin where it possesses slight acidic properties that kills of unwanted skin bacteria. Although it is particularly effective on what is commonly known as acne skin, walnut oil is also effective in soothing sunburned skin and eczema.

That does not mean to infer that the oil cannot be used on normal skin; on the contrary – it is a very smooth oil that makes your perfect skin feel pampered in luxury, and the ideal solution to an evening in yourself with a long hot bath, a glass of wine a box of chocolates. And a body rub with lovely aromatic luxurious walnut oil.

You won’t get that with any of the many commercial products that claim to do the same as walnut oil. Be careful when you buy walnut oil skin care products and check the label carefully for any synthetic ingredients. This contains none – just walnut oil.

When checking labels, look particularly for sodium lauryl sulfate, or laureth sulfate (same thing): that is a chemical foam stabilizer that can irritate your skin and even cause hair loss. You will find this surfactant in bath products because it is relatively cheap and is used in several different types of cosmetic product that involve foam. This is just one example of the type of ingredient that you can find in synthetic cosmetic products that you will not find in natural ones.

Walnut oil is particularly free of synthetic chemicals, and it too is used in bath products such as bath oils, and also in lip balms, lotions and face and body creams. It is also used in anti-wrinkle creams for the skin around the eyes and mouth, and also as a massage oil. The benefits of such a natural oil to the care of your skin cannot be over-emphasized, since many people have suffered skin damage and irritation by coming into contact with the synthetic ingredients of commercial preparations.

Laura’s website Castle Baths Spa Products offers information on a large number of different natural skin care products.

Lanolin softens and protects. It’s harvested without harming animals. It’s quickly absorbed by the skin without clogging pores. So why are people avoiding it?

What Is Lanolin?

A pure, natural product, lanolin is simply the wax taken from sheep’s wool, after the sheep has been shorn. The sheep is not hurt. He probably does not enjoy having his fur cut off, but the people who do this are highly trained, they do it quickly, and the sheep joins his herd again in a matter of minutes.

The clipped wool is naturally covered with a pale-yellow, water repellent wax. Also known as wool fat, it’s purpose is to keep the sheep healthy and dry. It’s extracted from the wool by a boiling process. This is crude lanolin.

Refining – the Key to Safety

The next step is to refine this wax, and remove impurities. PBS recently made a documentary on lanolin, and they purified it by mixing it with olive oil and water. The impurities dissolved into the water and oil, leaving the lanolin as an off-white wax which could be gathered up.

In commercial lanolin processing, refining is done in sterile environments and through many stages. This refining process is the key to the safety of the lanolin. Depending on the needs of the manufacturer, the lanolin can be refined crudely, in which case it may still contain impurities. Or it can be refined to medical grade – safe enough for nursing mothers to use on cracked nipples.

So Why the Bad Press?

There are two potential problems with lanolin.

1. It can be refined to acceptable cosmetic grade and still contain impurities, some of which can be allergens. People who are allergic to lanolin are probably allergic to unrelated ingredients that were not removed in the refining process. Also, some manufacturers use a chemical bleach to whiten the color. And the finished product may have been mixed with vegetable oils or soft paraffin that comes from other sources. There could be impurities in these additives.

2. Some lanolin can be tainted with DDT, dieldrin, lindane, or other toxic pesticides. It’s possible for these carcinogens to make their way into our skincare products. This is because the sheep may be eating food that has been treated with these or other insecticides.

How to Make Sure Your Lanolin Is Safe

Both problems are solved by buying your lanolin-based products from a reputable company; a company you know and trust; a company with visibility – a website with contact information; a detailed label on their product. Make sure the lanolin in your lotion is labeled as pure grade, fine grade, highly refined, or medical grade. If you’re unsure about the grade, email the company through their website. The well-refined lanolins will be free of pesticides and impurities.

When purchasing a finished skincare product, make sure, too, that it has not been tested on animals.

Lanolin itself is not likely to cause allergic reactions, although each individual must check with their doctor before using anything that is absorbed into the body.

Pure lanolin is obtained without harming the sheep – as opposed to emu oil, which is gathered by killing the bird. Lanolin is a near-perfect skin softener and emollient. Many lanolin-based products are non-animal tested. And by making sure the soap, lip balm, skin cream, moisturizer, or hair product you use contains only high grade or medically graded lanolin, you can breathe easy, and enjoy lanolin’s benefits.

Suzann writes for the website My Makeup Mirror http://www.MyMakeupMirror.com – a potpourri of articles, product reviews, and how-to’s on hair, cosmetics, and well-being.

Hormones essentially act as chemical messengers and are produced by the thyroid glands, adrenal glands as well as the ovaries. Most of the changes that occur in the skin are primarily influenced by the hormonal changes that take place within the body. There is an array of skin care products out there that help in alleviating the ravaging effects of the hormones.

Premenstrual and Menopausal women

Women who are premenstrual or menopausal experience skin changes as well as changes in hair, moods, sexual desires etc. The level of the estrogen hormone is reduced in women who are menopausal (in their 40s and 50s) and this exerts an influence on the overall appearance and health of their skin.

These changes are usually characterized by dryness, wrinkles, skin tends to become more fragile and sensitive (due to reduction in collagen synthesis and therefore loses elasticity), skin also looks paler as a deficiency of estrogens causes a reduction in the amount of blood vessels and could lack the glow of youthful-looking skin. Skin care that focuses on increased moisturization ca help. Hyaluronic Acid, panthenol, and Emu Oil products help to hydrate and soothe dry or frail skin.

Dry Skin caused by thyroxin

The thyroid gland produces the thyroxin hormone. An over activity of this hormone can result in the skin becoming sweaty, flushed, warm and smooth. Likewise, an under activity of this hormone makes the skin dry and coarse with a reduced ability to perspire.

Acne and Hormones

Testosterone is yet another hormone which controls the activity and levels of oil glands in the skin. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome causes an increase in the levels of testosterone which in turn results in acne, increased facial hair as well as irregular periods. Most premenstrual women also experience skin changes and acne flare ups before or during menstruation. This is another hormonal phenomenon that comes into play.

Pregnancy

There are many hormonal changes that take place within the body of a pregnant woman. Estrogen related skin changes are usually characterized by melasma which is commonly referred to as “mask of pregnancy”. A broad spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor 30 is highly advisable during this period in order to arrest the skin condition.

Various over the counter medications are also available like retinoid, azeleic acid, hydroxyl acids or skin lighteners like kojic acid or hydroquinone. Additionally, pregnancy often brings on the chance (in fact likelihood) of stretch marks.

Hormones can affect the fluid level in skin cell membranes reducing elasticity and lowering elastin fiber and collagen production. Reduced elasticity combined with weight gain can lead to tearing and ripping of dermis and epidermis skin layers…the result can be stretch marks. Using a stretch mark cream can help improve elasticity and help maintain adequate hydration.

Given that hormonal changes can greatly influence skin changes, a little skin care prevention and equipping oneself with all facts and the right skin care products one can definitely alleviate the onslaught of these hormones.

Skin Energizer is one of the leading skin care companies on the web! Stretch mark creams and targeted skin care solutions – anti wrinkle, anti aging, acne, antioxidants, rashes, cellulite, spider veins, sunburn relief and body firming.

Here are some cool little tricks I have learned over the years that will do just as good job as any leading commercial product on your complexion, hair and body but without adding the toxic cocktail or compromising your style or budget. Enjoy!

In the morning, slap a spoonful of plain organic yogurt on your face. Higher fat % for dry or normal skin and fat-free for oily. Excellent moisturizer and you can have the rest for breakfast.

Instead of your usual hairspray or gel try to apply plain aloe vera gel to style your hair. Add a little melted sugar for extra hold. Works just great!

Ummm…strawberries! Mash one or two extra-ripe berries in a cup, dip a cotton ball in the juice and wipe your face and neck area. Leave for 5-10 minutes, wash off with cold water. Your face will instantly look fresh and glowing, like after 8 hrs good night sleep. This one is my personal favorite, – being a mom to a teething toddler, 8 hours of sleep is unimaginable luxury I can only dream of, so this trick really does the job of looking good in the morning!

Good old cucumber will take the puffiness out of your eyes in no time. Cover your eyes with fresh, cold (must be cold!), thin slices and leave them on for a couple of minutes. Re-apply a fresh batch if needed. Camomile tea bags and ice cubes will do the trick too!

Lemon juice will get the skin discoloration caused by sun damage out, but you have to be persistant! Keep your skin well moisturized to avoid dry patches and remember to use good sunblock in between the applications (actually, you should use one All the time!).

“For extra fun, let your boyfriend or spouse kiss your lemon-juiced face – the look on his face will be priceless!”

Tips:

Use as much organic products as possible – you don’t want to add pesticides to your skin, right?

Olive oil is a great moisturizer and skin softener. WARM olive oil is even better.

Sour cream or fresh yogurt will sooth sun and wind burns, and your fabulous tan will stay a lot longer too!

Take it easy with lemon juice – it can dry your skin quickly.

Shop for locally made products to avoid transportation carbon offset and to

support local businesses.

Look for locally produced food. Locally grown peaches or watermelons are better for you (and the environment!) then organic ones from Chile.

Choose items with less or no packaging on them to reduce waste to our landfills.

Read your labels carefully. “Natural” does not always mean “organic”.

Enjoy!

Natallia. Organic Mom and Founder of Organic By Nature company

http://www.organicbynature.ca

Natural hair care products have the same potential to give you a voluminous mane that most chemical products offer. However, they also have the advantage of the absence of side effects that are associated with many of these chemical products. Quite a few people having experienced extensive hair fall and other problems associated with using chemical products have turned towards natural treatments.

Like your skin, your mane also requires a daily beauty regime for getting strong and healthy. This regimen will include proper cleansing, conditioning along with good quality hair shampoo and hair oil applications. So, when you are looking for the top four natural hair care products, choose from each of these three essential categories to stock up the best nature care available for you.

Best Natural Hair Oil

Oil keeps your locks soft and supple. When you have turned to natural products, this can sustain the health and volume of your mane for a long time. There are different types of natural hair oils that you can pick up according to your hair type. While you can choose Basil for oily hair, Peppermint oil will be beneficial for dry hair. If you want to pick up a product that goes with hair of any kind, select Clary Sage that suits all types.

Best Natural Shampoo

Shampoo is a thing that is necessary for taking care of your hair and yet its excessive use can get your beautiful locks damaged. You should be very cautious when choosing the shampoo. Picking up a shampoo made of natural ingredients is not only a great way to clean your scalp and keep it healthy, but it will also take good care of your hair in the long run.

Best Natural Hair Conditioners and Packs

A wide range of natural hair conditioners and hair packs are available in the market today. Due to the lack of time, most people prefer to pick up one natural product that is available readily. However, if you can spare a little amount of time, both hair conditioners and hair packs can be made at home. A mixture of henna and curd works both as natural hair pack and an excellent conditioner.

These are just 3 tips for natural hair care and you will be able to find countless recommendations for hair care products. When choosing the best solution for you, pay attention to your hair type before picking up anything as our hair are unique to us.

Nioxin shampoo has a wide range of hair care products for you to choose from such as the Nioxin Follicle Booster, a great solution if you are suffering from thinning hair.