Winter has brought dryness to our skin and it can affect everyone in the family and let's not forget every part of the body too. Be consistent with daily applications to keep your skin subtle and soft.
Over the last couple of weeks, I have been receiving many messages about what can be used to alleviate dry skin, so here are some tips.
First, I am a believer in using what you already have that is natural and without toxic ingredients, rather than adding more to your bathroom cabinet. The key is to refrain from parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances which are hormone disruptors.
Number 1
Lips- If you haven't tried Young Living's Lavender lip balm it is a thumbs up. It can actually be used for any small dry patch on the body too. It is easy to throw in any bag. If you are a DIYer and have coconut oil, shea butter/cacao butter, and beeswax in your home you can make your own. Equal parts of each in a bain-marie and then add luscious lavender to the mix.
Number 2
Face- The sandalwood moisturizing cream is luscious and thick and if you are looking for a layer of protection this is a win, but if you happen to have the kid's scent lotion, save your money and use this versatile lotion. It is thick and moisturizing for the season, and you can add any essential oil to help with dryness. Add a drop of any of these essential oils you have on hand to your daily application (add 1-2 drops to 1 tsp unscented kids lotion); geranium, lavender, gentle baby, roman chamomile, myrrh, elemi, davana, jasmine, neroli, patchouli, frankincense, sandalwood. And remember, to use what essential oils you have on hand and resonate with your skin type.
The Bloom Skin Care which includes a brightening cleanser, brightening essence and lotion has my official stamp of approval. I have been using it for almost a year. You can use it through all seasons and incorporate the collagen drinks every year to keep your skin looking juvenile. One set has lasted over 6 months and I have not noticed my skin drying out over this colder month. There has been no need to add additional moisturizers, the daily attention it is receiving is sufficient.
DIYers you can also consider making your own serum with as simple as 2 ingredients: V6 and your favourite skin essential oil. Adding vitamin e will add the additional love needed right now.
Number 3
Hands and Body- V6 is a loved staple and this is when I would say a must-have if you are a lover of essential oils. This 6 vegetable carrier oil is moisturizing and makes it easy to massage over a large area of the body. Again, add one or a combination of the recommended essential oils above to V6 for an all-body hydrating lotion. You may even want to warm this for use as a massage oil by placing it in warm water.
The versatile kid's scents lotion is also a match for the hands and body. I never understood by it was a lotion branded for children because it can certainly be used by anyone in the home. It is fragrance-free and certainly thick enough for winter dryness. Adding essential oils for the skin will provide better moisturizing benefits and help the body to detoxify.
If you are a DIYer you can enjoy making your own body butter by ordering ingredients from iherb.com and adding your Seed to Seal essential oils. The internet is your oyster for so many beautiful combinations. The fun part is whipping it up and this is the perfect time of the year to make it as you do not need to keep it in the fridge.
A must add, consider making your own liquid foaming hand soap and adding extra vitamin e to the recipe. Oh !!! Hand sanitizers have been a highly overused product since the pandemic, but please consider hand sanitizers that have glycerin, aloe, honey extract, calendula extract, chamomile, or other skin-soothing ingredients.
Number 4
Rough patches and cuticles- This includes any furry animal in the home. If your cuticles, elbows, knees, heels of feet are feeling a little rough, a protective layer of thick ointment is the way to go. The rose ointment is what you are after, but do not shy away from the economical animal scents ointment which is equally as effective and moisturizing. It is a staple in our home for chaffing too.
Number 5
Nose- Yes, the nose can be a place of dryness and although very little is required to keep this area moist, any of the above ointments are perfect for moisturizing and supporting the respiratory system. I like to mix a small pot of ointment with immune-supporting essential oils such as these ready blends: Thieves, RC, Raven, and Exodus is another favorite. Swab with a clean finger or cotton bud. Even if you do not experience a dry nose, this is one of my favorite applications to use when I know I am going to be wearing a mask for longer periods. A relaxing essential oil such as Lavender is perfect, a replacement for a homemade Aroma Ring.
