A clean and fresh face is attainable, safely and naturally. Using simple ingredients you can find at your nearest grocery store or even in the comfort of your own pantry can save your life. Here are some skin-cleansing and freshening products that work well , or better than most commercial brands.
Facial cleansers
Experts recommend a routine for achieving clear, clean, glowing skin. It begins with cleansing, usually morning and night. Cleansing skin removes dirt, dead skin cells, oil build up, and dissolves impurities that can block pores. It also improves circulation, protects against breakouts and stimulates skin cell renewal.
Olive oil- One of the oldest and simplest ways to cleanse facial skin is to use what the Egyptians used: pure olive oil. Simply smooth a little extra-virgin olive oil onto skin and massage gently into the surface avoiding the eye area. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Olive oil or any natural plant oil acts as solvent to dissolve dirt and residues.
Whole milk or yogurt- Another ancient cleansing approach is to wash your face in whole milk or cream. Simply use fingertips to apply these dairy products in gentle circular motions and then rinse. Yogurt which contains lactic acid that gently exfoliates dead skin cells also makes an effective facial cleanser.
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Natural exfoliators
Exfoliating clean skin is a way to gently but thoroughly remove dead skin cells that are constantly forming on the skin's surface, a process that leaves skin soft, smooth and vibrant. Exfoliating may also help combat some of the visible signs of aging.
Almond meal- Grind a small handful of almonds to a fine powder. Moisten about a teaspoon of the almond meal with enough purified water or plant oil (try avocado oil if you have dry skin and grapeseed oil if you have oily skin) to make a thin paste. Apply to skin using small circular motions. Rinse well.
Papaya and pineapple- Both pineapple and papaya contain natural enzymes that can effectively exfoliate skin. Cut a slice of either a ripe pineapple or green papaya and rub the fruit over your face, avoiding your eyes. Leave on until the juice dries, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
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Toners
Using a toner on freshly cleansed, exfoliated skin helps close pores and can help improve skin tone. Most toners also work to restore the skin's natural acidity. All soaps even the gentlest and most natural ones are alkaline and disrupt the skin's acid balance to some degree. Toners counteract this effect.
Apple cider vinegar- One of the easiest toners is probably in your pantry already: apple cider vinegar preferably organic. Use a cotton ball to apply to your face. Leave on for five to ten minutes and rinse well with cool water. Another option is to mix equal parts of the apple cider vinegar and cooled green tea in the same way.
Watermelon- When watermelon is in season, mix 2 tablespoons watermelon juice with 2 tablespoons filtered water and 1 tablespoon vodka (choose a brand made with real extract). Apply with a cotton ball and wait for a few minutes and then rinse.
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