Saturday, July 21, 2012

Oily skin: Problem Solved!




Here we are in the middle of the summer months when the weather is the hottest. Sunny days are great for showing off summer dresses and relaxing by the poolside although the heat can present a common problem: oily skin. 

A greasy complexion requires special attention and care making the fight of oily skin harder to fight. To keep unnecessary oils at bay and keep your pores unclogged it calls for a different game plan and new tricks to get you through the summer. 

Now, I know you’re thinking that oily skin is impossible to live with and is the worse skin type to have, but think again, there are actually advantages that come along with this specific skin type. For example your skin will age less and you’re less likely to get unwanted fine lines and wrinkles. I told you this skin type wasn’t so bad after all.


Mask:







Mango Facial:

Accompanying oily skin acne tends to make an unwanted appearance. This facial helps target acne and keep your pores clean. The best part of this facial is it will help give you baby soft skin.

Simply mash a mango on a plate. Taking the content, massage the pulp into your skin using circular motions. Leave it on your face until it dries. Wash it off with warm water and cleanse as normal. 






Clay Mask:

Use a clay mask once a week to help keep your pores from clogging. This type of mask is very effective in helping you fight a greasy complexion and keeping oily skin under control. Apply it to a clean face. Leave it on until it hardens. 




Astringents:

Astringents stimulate circulation, reduce oiliness and help to refine pores and rough, uneven skin texture. Here are seven options to get you started.

Stimulating Astringents:

•   Witch Hazel
•   Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
•   Lemon 
•   Basil Essential Oil 
•   Chamomile Essential Oil
•   Tea Tree Oil

Toners:

Toners are used to remove excess dirt, and oil from your skin. They should be applied after you have completed cleansing.  These are gentle yet an effective way to heal and calm your skin.




Sage Toner:

Sage will provide your skin cells with vitamins and help with excessive oil production.

Take a small amount of sage in a small cup and pour hot water over it. Let the herb steep for fifteen minutes. Simply dip a cotton ball into the sage tea and cleanse your face.




Aloe Vera Gel Toner:

Making your own toner is very easy to do. Add three tablespoons of Aloe Vera gel into a bowl with four drops of an essential oil of your choice (listed below). Apply this simple mixture onto your skin. 






Soothing Toners:

•   Geranium
•   Lavender
•   Sandalwood
•   Grapefruit 
•   Thyme
•   Rosewater

You can mix and match these oils to your facial routine to help maintain your oily skin.




Blotting Papers: 

Blotting papers are a temporary fix that will help eliminate surface oil when you are on the go. They are extremely handy for discreet bathroom touch-ups. They prevent you from having to reapply makeup throughout the day.



Water:

Drinking water will help flush out toxins and keep your skin moisturized, preventing your glands from overcompensating.


When Treating your Skin:
 



Come Clean: 

Having a well-defined skin care regime for your oily complexion is essential, especially in the summer, to keep your skin in check. A common misconception is to constantly wash your face or to “dry out” your skin in order to control oil production. When this simply communicates to your body to produce more oils, making the problem worse than before.

Proper cleansing and exfoliating go hand-in-hand to keep your pores unclogged, remove dead skin cells, reduce excess oils from the surface of your skin and help control the production of oils.

Use a gentle gel-based or water-based cleanser is best to get a thorough cleanse. Wash your face morning and night is the perfect amount, no more no less. Use sugar as a gentle yet effective exfoliate.



Moisturize Your Skin: 

Seriously, even if you have oily skin, it is still important to moisturize your skin after cleansing. When your face is moisturized there is no need for your skin to produce excess oils. You can find an all-natural moisturizer at any health food store that is created specifically for oily skin that will help you control the shine.


Makeup: 

Always remove all of your makeup at the end of the day. Check the type of makeup you are using to ensure you aren’t wearing makeup that will make the problem worse.


Hopefully these tricks will help you enjoy your summer to the fullest, boot-kicking any excess oil off your skin and out of your life. Now you can enjoy a radiant look despite the heat.