CosmoBiz Magazine November 2015 | Page 77

imize the effects of sun damage and give skin a dose of antioxidant protection. Why are these three ingredients the ideal gentle exfoliant? • Honey really is the bee’s knees! As one of the most versatile natural ingredients in skincare, it will gently remove any traces of makeup left behind, while whisking away environmental debris and other impurities without stripping the skin. • “Oatmeal contains both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and as such is ideal for sensitive skin and to treat a variety of skin disorders,” explains Dr. Susan Stuart, a Board Certified Dermatologist at La Jolla Dermatology. • Buttermilk in natural skincare dates back centuries. It contains beneficial Vitamins A & D and leaves the skin feeling supple and soothed. Deep clean congested pores with egg whites and strawberries. • Instead of buying a high-end salicylic acid treatment for blackheads, reach for strawberries. Rich in natural salicylins, which are oil soluble, the gentle fruit acids can reach into the hair follicles and clear out trapped sebum. Combine a handful of strawberries with two egg whites. The whites will help tighten and rejuvenate as they draw out excess oil. Simply whisk together and leave on the face for up to fifteen minutes before rinsing with warm water. Ease skin inflammation with this medicine cabinet staple. • Dr. Josie L. Tenore, MD, MSc., of Fresh Skin MedSpa in suburban Chicago tells us that a popular upset stomach treatment is actually great for the skin. “Pepto-Bismol® has anti-inflammatory properties, and a thin layer applied to the face can help reduce redness,” shares Dr. Tenore. Who knew? STEP 5: Moisture with coconut oil. STEP 4: Apply a soothing mask with affordable easy to find ingredients. “Masks can be made from much of what we have in our homes,’” says Dr. Palette. “We can use fresh dry oatmeal, honey, plain yogurt, beer, egg white, whole egg, coffee grounds, strawberries, any berries, bananas, or even a few tablespoons of red wine.” Defeat dullness with two simple ingredients. • Try a mask made with blueberries & sunflower oil. Combine a tablespoon of sunflower oil with ½ cup of mashed blueberries. Pulse in the blender, and then brush it on your face. The berries contain anthocyanins, which boost collagen levels, plus the Vitamin C brightens the complexion. Sunflower oil contains an abundance of phytosterol to help min- Why use coconut oil to moisturize the skin? World renowned dermatologist Dr. Jeannette Graf says, “Coconut oil is made up of anti-inflammatory dietary fatty acids, which are important for skin health. When applied topically, it has wonderful moisturizing properties for the skin, increasing elasticity and emolliency. In addition, coconut oil enhances wound healing and has antioxidant properties.” There are so many varieties available. Look for an unrefined, virgin coconut oil. That way you can be sure that no chemicals or bleaches have been used to alter the oil. Warm a small amount between the fingers to soften and massage into the skin. Coconut oil solidifies under 76 degrees, so if you are storing it at a cooler temperature, you may need to run the jar under warm water to soften. It’s been a long day. Make some time to pamper your skin with a budget-friendly facial. Just think—the money you save on a spa treatment can be used to add to your shoe collection savings account. 77