Having skin with a natural, healthy glow is high on everybody’s wish list. However, lack of sleep, dehydration and our health can impact this. The result is often dry, dull, tired looking skin. However, the good news is, you don’t need to spend a lot of time or money to give your skin that fresh, bright look. This look can be achieved using products found in your home and are quick enough to add into your daily routine (without adding to the morning rush).
Here are five simple ways to bring back the glow – naturally.
1. A warm towel
If you’ve ever been on a long-haul flight, you’ll know the refreshing power of a warm towel on tired skin. The heat from the towel opens the pores – an important first step in any natural skin care routine. Once the pores are open, the impurities can be removed. A warm towel also helps to open the blood vessels in your skin, boosting blood flow and oxygen to the area and instantly giving you a healthy, fresh glow.
Simply run a small towel or face cloth under warm water, wring out the excess and place on your face for 10 seconds.
A note of caution: never use boiling water. If the towel is too hot to pick up with your hands, don’t put it on your face. The skin of your face and neck is more sensitive to higher temperatures than your hands, so be sure to test the temperature first and leave it to cool if the cloth is too hot.
2. Exfoliate
Exfoliation is essential if you want a healthy glow. Your pores can become clogged with dirt and toxins that build up over time. Even hair products that are in contact with your skin can result in blemishes if the pores remain blocked. Exfoliation is a process that gently buffs away the dry skin cells on the surface, revealing your beautiful, healthy skin.
The most effective way to remove these impurities and prevent future breakouts is to exfoliate. While there are many products available, we always recommend natural products free of parabens, petrochemicals and other harmful toxins. These natural scrubs can be easily made at home and are an affordable way to achieve healthy skin.
Note: Always patch test first before applying to your face. When applying, be sure to rub very gently in small circles. If you have oily skin, you should exfoliate 1-2 times per week, but if you have dry or sensitive skin, once per week is plenty.
Coffee Scrub
This well-known stimulant works wonders on your skin. Not only is it a powerful antioxidant, it also boosts circulation and can reduce signs of aging.
Combine three tablespoons of coffee grounds with your preferred oil (coconut/olive work well) and apply evenly to your skin. Leave for 10-15 minutes then rinse well.
Sugar Scrub
For those who don’t drink coffee, you can substitute the coffee grounds with sugar. White or brown sugar is best for the face as the grains are finer and less harsh, while raw sugar works well on the rest of your body. You can also add a drop or two of your favourite essential oils – just be sure it is an oil you have already tested on your skin.
Combine three tablespoons of your sugar of choice with your preferred oil (and optional essential oil) and mix well. Apply evenly to your skin using gentle, circular motions and rinse well.
Bi-carb Soda Scrub
This option is not only a great household cleaner, but is great for the skin, too. The best part is, it’s the cheapest scrub of all. The fine granules have a gentle, soothing effect. This is perfect for those with dry skin and works well for those with oily skin as it breaks down the oil in the skin, cleansing as well as removing dead skin cells.
Simply add a teaspoon of bi-carb soda to your favourite cleanser (cream-based cleansers are best), scrub gently in circular motions and rinse well.
3. Lemon Face Balm
Face balms are a soothing way to freshen up your skin. This luscious lemon face balm not only gently exfoliates, but also harnesses the brightening power of vitamin C – a natural antioxidant. Rather than rinsing off immediately, this face balm draws out impurities buried deep in the pores, leaving your skin fresh and bright. Honey naturally reduces inflammation - perfect for those experiencing breakouts.
Combine ½ cup lemon juice, ½ teaspoon bi-carb soda and one tablespoon of honey. Mix well and apply gently to the face and neck. Leave for 10 minutes and remove with a warm, wet face cloth. Rinse well.
4. Oatmeal Mask
Oatmeal has been used for many years for its soothing, anti-inflammatory properties. It is often found in eczema products and has a moisturising effect on the skin – perfect for those who struggle with dryness or sensitivity. Masks naturally detoxify the skin, drawing out any toxins without any harsh scrubbing. To make, combine 1/3 cup oats with ½ cup hot water and allow to sit for 10 minutes to absorb. Add 2 tablespoons of natural yoghurt and 2 tablespoons of honey. Apply to your face and allow to sit for 15 minutes. Remove with a warm cloth and rinse well.
5. Moisturise
Now you’ve removed any nasty toxins and stimulated those beautiful, healthy cells, it’s time to complete your natural skin care routine by adding in some moisture. Moisturiser prevents skin from drying out in harsh environments such as colder temperatures, low humidity, and air conditioning. The Natralus Superfood Body Lotion is packed with papaya and aloe vera to provide light, fast absorbing moisturisation.
