You've probably heard the expression, "You're never too young to moisturize." That's because moisturizers do so much
more than prevent wrinkles in more mature skin. A good moisturizer provides protection from the elements, lubrication to prevent cracking and flaking, and the glow we've all come to associate with healthy skin.
The Mayo Clinic describes it this way: "On the most basic level, moisturizers hold water in the outermost layer of skin. They also act as a temporary barrier allowing damaged surface cells time to repair themselves." Most moisturizers contain either humectants (glycerin, alpha hydroxy acids, and milk-based cremes), which draw water from the air and hold it in the skin, or emollients (oils, nut bases, etc.), which replace your skin's natural fats and smooth and fill in any gaps between cells in the skin, giving a smoother look and a more lubricated feel. Both humectants and emollients are found in nature, as well as some of your cosmetic counter favorites, and are excellent choices to give you smoother, softer, healthier skin.
What to Look for in a Moisturizer
Non-clogging oils like avocado oil, mineral oil, primrose oil, or almond oil are best for the face; thicker oils might keep the skin on your face from breathing and functioning the way it needs to in order to glow. If you've ever heard the natural beauty myth that vegetable shortening is a good natural moisturizer -- it's not true. It would just sit on top of your skin, clog your pores, and feel really greasy. Now, on to moisturizers you can use!
Olive Oil
People have used extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) for centuries as an all-purpose moisturizer. A tiny dab of EVOO makes an excellent hair conditioner. Wet your palms with EVOO, run it though your hair, and sleep on it. Shampoo twice in the morning and you'll see excellent results.
Small amounts of EVOO used on the skin make excellent makeup removers for your face as well as soothers and smoothers for your body, nails, and feet. Use it as a massage oil, as well.
Glycerine
Glycerine is a humectant and will borrow moisture from the air in order to help hydrate your skin. For normal skin that needs just a touch of moisture, glycerine-based moisturizers are perfect after-cleansing soothers. Want to mix your own? Try this one from Stephanie Tourles in her book, Organic Body Care Recipes:
Light Moisturizer
- 1/2 cup distilled water
- 2 teaspoons vegetable glycerin
- 5 drops of essential oil (choose from lemon, geranium, grapefruit, or rosemary)
Mix ingredients in a bottle and shake to blend. Apply with a cotton ball or with a light spritzer. Use within 6 months of mixing. Source:
Organic Body Care Recipes by Stephanie Tourles
Honey
Another easy-as-pie mask is made with honey. Just spread a thin layer across your face and neck with your fingers and wait. It will bead up some, like oil on water. Don't worry -- that's normal. Simply rinse with cool water. Pat your face dry with a fluffy towel and enjoy your soft, delicious, and newly moisturized skin.
Moisturizing Creams and Masks
Want a heavier moisturizing cream? This might be a good time to look into products blended by your favorite cosmetic companies, as creams can be tricky to blend at home and often require refrigeration or creation in small batches to avoid spoiling. Read the labels of products that catch your eye, and keep an eye out for botanicals and natural bases. If your heart's set on mixing your own, consider supplementing a commercial moisturizer with a DIY moisture mask weekly.
Where creams are tricky, masks couldn't be easier. Just mash up an avocado or a banana, smooth it on your face, wait 10 minutes, and then rinse completely with cool water. You'll feel moisturized, refreshed, and happy to know you did it all naturally.