Homemade Facial for Sensitive Skin

Homemade Facial for Sensitive Skin
Photo Credit Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) image by Lars Lachmann from Fotolia.com

Sensitive skin, prone to rashes, redness, irritation and itching, is a common complexion problem. The American Academy of Dermatology notes that sensitive skin can exhibit rosacea, acne, simple stinging and burning, or contact dermatitis. If you have sensitive skin, then it's important to identify and avoid allergens and irritants---which can include fragrances, preservatives and dyes in skin care products---and to select the proper anti-inflammatory ingredients for your skin. You can make a natural facial moisturizer at home to soothe sensitive skin. Apply a small amount to your wrist 24 hours before use to make sure you're not allergic to the ingredients.

Step 1

Liquify 2 tsp. macadamia nut oil along with 2 tsp. jojoba oil, 2 tsp. lanolin, and 2 tsp. cocoa butter over low heat in a double boiler. This remedy, suggested by SharAmbrosia, a website founded by esthetician Sharon Houghton to promote all-natural beauty products, utilizes the properties of four different oils and butters to soothe sensitive skin. According to the website for Mehmet Oz of "The Dr. Oz Show," lanolin is an occlusive, helping to block moisture loss in sensitive skin. Both macadamia nut oil and cocoa butter are natural emollients, while jojoba oil has moisturizing qualities.

Step 2

Blend in 1 tsp. dried chamomile flowers and stir the mixture for 10 minutes over low heat. The American Academy of Dermatology lists chamomile as one of the natural substances appropriate for reducing inflammation caused by rosacea. There is some scientific research supporting the belief in chamomile's therapeutic applications. In a study conducted at Semnan University of Medical Science in Iran and published in the May 2010 issue of "Natural Product Research," researchers found that an extract of chamomile tea had wound healing potential.

Step 3

Pour the mixture through a fine sieve to strain out the dried chamomile, then pour it back into the clean, dried double boiler and re-warm it. Blend in an additional 2 tsp. lanolin, stirring until all ingredients are melted together.

Step 4

Remove the mixture from the heat, and pour it into a glass container with a tight-fitting lid.

Step 5

Apply the mixture lightly to your clean face, using the pads of your fingertips to massage it over cheeks, forehead, chin and throat.

Tips and Warnings

  • All Natural Beauty website recommends using glass or porcelain pots to make cosmetics or lotions, and avoiding the use of stainless steel pans, which can sometimes leach toxic metals into the enclosed liquids.

Things You'll Need

  • 2 tsp. macadamia nut oil
  • 2 tsp. jojoba oil
  • 4 tsp. lanolin
  • 2 tsp. cocoa butter
  • 1 tsp. dried chamomile flowers
  • glass container

References

Article reviewed by Debbie C Last updated on: Aug 2, 2010

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