Ground-level air pollutants and particles pose the greatest threat to our health, according to AirNow.gov. This particulate matter is a known skin irritant that also affects the lungs, eyes and nose. You can remedy this persistent onslaught of pore-clogging pollutants with homemade facial products that naturally and effectively eliminate contaminants from your skin.
Cleansers and Scrubs
Using mild cleansers and natural scrubs helps to rejuvenate skin on the epidermis--the outermost layer with keratin-filled cells. Commercial products use chemicals and preservatives that can irritate the skin and facilitate more breakouts. The U.S Environmental Protection Agency, for example, reports that sodium lauryl sulfate, a common cosmetic ingredient, is a pesticide. Using the best ingredients conducive to your skin type, you can naturally clarify and tone your skin.
The Homemade Beauty Recipes website suggests making a simple cleanser and scrub. For a basic cleanser, mix 1/2 cup of finely ground oatmeal with 2 tbsp. of heavy cream or milk. Smooth the cleanser over your face in circular motions. The oatmeal soothes and moisturizes the skin while also acting as a mild exfoliant.
For a mild facial scrub, combine 1 tbsp. of olive oil with 2 tbsp. of dark brown sugar in a bowl. Apply liberally to the face by pressing down gently in circular motions. It will initially feel greasy, but once you rinse with warm water, your skin will feel silky and soft. Olive oil is a well-known anti-aging ingredient.
Toner
Facial toners help to refine and close pores for optimal protection against the elements. Unfortunately, many commercial toners have high levels of alcohol and other irritants that inflame the skin making it appear dry, flaky and dull.
For a simple homemade facial toner, follow this simple recipe: Combine 4 oz. of witch hazel with 15 drops of essential oil, such as thyme oil--a natural antibacterial and antifungal. Depending on your type of skin, the essential oil can vary. For example, tea tree and patchouli oil help acne-prone skin, as they are natural anti-inflammatories.
Masks
Natural facial masks are effective in pulling debris and impurities from deep within the pores. Commercial facial masks usually have high levels of preservatives or petroleum-based additives that inflame pores and irritate sensitive skin. Instead, use common household ingredients to create a gentle, purifying facial mask.
In a bowl, combine 1 beaten egg white, 1/2 cup of coconut oil and 1 tbsp. of honey. Blend the ingredients to a thick consistency similar to whipped cream. Apply to the face and let dry for approximately 15 minutes, then wash it off. If your skin is in dire need of moisture, consider freezing the mask in ice cube trays and then rubbing on the face; leave it on your face for 10 minutes and then wash off. Your skin will feel smooth and hydrated.
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