Natural Skincare Treatments

Your skin is a vital organ that requires care and attention to stay healthy. Skin is your frontline of defense against bacteria, viruses, free radicals and other enemies of good health. Natural skincare treatments can nourish and protect your skin so that it can effectively protect you from illness.

Antioxidants

Your skin is exposed to harmful, cell-damaging free radicals throughout the day. The air you breathe, food you eat and stresses you endure can create an opportunity for free radicals to diminish the health of your skin. Eating foods high in antioxidants can provide your body with the necessary compounds to combat skin damage. According to Renee Loux, author of "Easy Green Living," green tea, dark red berries, pomegranates, leafy green vegetables, red wine and chocolate are foods rich in powerful, skin-promoting antioxidants.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera contains a myriad of healthful nutrients, including antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and amino acids, which can promote healthy skin. According to the "Indian Journal of Dermatology," there are mucopolysaccharide compounds present in aloe vera, making it an effective skin moisturizer. Additionally, aloe vera gel promotes the production of collagen and elastin to prevent wrinkling and encourage supple, elastic skin. Amino acids contribute to soft skin, while zinc can tighten your pores, states the "Indian Journal of Dermatology."

Avacado Mask

Loux recommends you treat yourself to a rejuvenating facial mask using nothing more than avocado, honey and lemon juice. She explains that avocado contains rich emollient oils, vitamins and minerals; honey has healthful antioxidants and enzymes; while lemon juice adds alpha hydroxy acids to restore your skin cells. Mash together the meat of one avocado, 1 ½ tbsp. of honey and 1 tbsp. of lemon juice to create your mask mixture. Begin by washing your face and then steaming it for two to five minutes by using a hot, wet cloth, being careful not to burn yourself. Apply the avocado mask mixture to your face, and allow it to set for 15 minutes. Rinse your face with warm water followed by cool water, and finish the process by applying a moisturizer or toner.

Sea Algae

Sea algae are nutrient-rich, gelatinous substances that are quickly becoming a popular component of the natural cosmetic industry. According to the Yoga Journal website, Ben Fuchs, a cosmetic formulator, asserts that sea algae can benefit your skin when used in cellulite and wrinkle creams, eye gels and facial masks. He adds that the high mineral content in sea algae may contribute to the removal of toxins from your skin.

Pumice Stone

Pumice stones are a type of volcanic rock that you can use to naturally exfoliate dry, scaly patches of your skin to soften and prepare the area for moisturizing. Pumice stones are primarily used on the feet, where you are likely to develop dehydrated, cracked skin. According to the American Diabetes Association, use a pumice stone while your skin is wet, and follow up with the application of a moisturizer.