Many studies have now shown most over the counter acne medication to be harmful to pregnant women - even to the point of causing birth defects!  So, use extreme caution when choosing your acne treatment. When in doubt - go for the most natural or herbal method available; treatments like anti-acne herbal facials and clay-based or herbal based anti-acne facial masks can do wonders without all the abrasive chemicals.

HOW ACNE STARTS

Acne is common in young adults, teens and pre-teens and may cause emotional and self-esteem problems. In severe cases, medical treatment may be needed. There are many over-the-counter products that can help treat acne.

Acne is caused by inflammation of the oily glands in the skin - they are called sebaceous glands - that contain a fatty material called sebum. When the duct of the gland becomes blocked either by layers of skin, fatty secretions or dirt, a mini-cyst or pimple forms. The cyst can become infected with acne bacteria.

Treatment of Acne

Just as acne can range from mild to severe, acne treatments also vary, depending on how serious the problem is. The basic treatment is to remove what is plugging the duct of the gland and, if necessary, kill the acne bacteria. This is usually done either by applying a product to the skin topically or by taking medication internally.

Herbal Facial Masks

Topical prescription products may contain antibiotic ingredients such as erythromycin that help control inflammation but they may also be dangerous to delicate systems.  These chemical products are designed to clean the area, dry up the oiliness, peel the skin and eliminate the acne bacteria present, but there are many other herbal options you can choose that do the same thing.

Oatmeal - will help relieve redness and itching and inflammation associated with acne

Rosemary - is a natural antiseptic and anti-bacterial

Lavender - is a natural antiseptic and anti-bacterial and anti-microbial

Yogurt - will lighten and even out dull, patchy skin tones

Chamomile - will soothe redness and inflammation

When in doubt, choose a natural facial mask to help heal acne scars and prevent further breakouts.

If you are concerned about sensitive skin issues and want a treatment that is effective yet also gentle, you should check out herbal facial masks.  Many drugstore anti-acne facial masks may contain harsh chemicals or parabens that might not be safe for your skin or can actually cause more damage.  Harsh chemicals like salycidic acid and benzoil peroxide can actually increase redness and inflammation and increase your chances of breakouts and acne erruptions.

If you use a skincare regime, try to find ingredients that will gently cleanse your skin and allow inflammed tissues to regenerate naturally, without shocking them into submission.

Natural ingredients like Chamomile, Marshmallow, Confrey, Calendula and other herbs are the best way to papmer acne-prone skin and relive redness. Acne erruptions are caused by excess oil and clogged pores, so you want to find an acnti-acne mask that will also help pull the dirt and oil out of the clogged pores - clay based masks work well.  if you can, look for an all-natural option or a 100% herbal option to meet both requirements, to heal skin herbally and remove toxins.

Acne scars can also be produced from using treatments that are too harsh or abrasive on the skin. Your skin’s natural lipid barrier is there to protect you from infection and bacteria. Each time you wash it away with harsh scrubs or chemicals, you are changing the PH of your skin and limiting its natural ability to heal.

So, the next time you are thinking about an acne-treatment, go for the herbal facial mask or herbal options and treat your skin with the kindness it deserves.

The most common types of facial masks are:
First let’s start with the clay or herbal facial masks. These are typically found in a powder form and you have the opportunity to custom-blend them with water, or facial toner, any ingredient you like. Most clay masks are detoxifying and also very good for all skin types. If you have oily skin, the clay will reduce the amount of oil by absorbing it. If you have dry or wrinkled skin, you can adjust the mask by adding a natural moisturizing agent - like oatmeal or Aloe Vera. Herbal masks are sometimes sold in specialty or “whole food” stores as they tend to be the most natural lines you can buy. Also, since they are dry, they won’t go rancid or spoil the way other natural / organic masks might.

Next we have moisturizing masks. These are typically cream-based and the most common type of facial masks. There are hundreds of varieties anhd price ranges to choose from, just look for the ingredients that suit your skin type the best - whether that is dry, oily or wrinkle-prone. Look for healing agents like, Aloe Vera, Calendula, Comfrey, Marshmallow or Lavender as these are all excellent herbs to heal skin and “plump up” skin cells.

“Peel-off” facial masks. Note: Some believe that “peeling” the mask off the face actually tears or harms the skin tissue, making wrinkles more noticeable. Some like to use them for the “fun” factor. They usually come in gel form that has a fruit-acid base like cucumber or grape seed. The gel transforms into a thin transparent film that picks up dead cells, dirt & impurities. Once dry, you then peel off the film after 15 minutes.

Finally, we have Gel Masks. Gel Facials are a great alternative if you suffer from really oily skin or have acne problems. The gels won’t be as thick as the standard moisturizing agent and will still help remove toxins from your skin without clogging your pores. Look for facial masks with natural acids or enzymes like papaya, pumpkin and fruits to gently loosen and dissolve dead surface cells. These gel masks do NOT dry into a peel-off film, they just help pull impurities and usually act as a mild acid-peel.

It’s really quite simple. Once you get your routine down (usually 1-2 times per week is best) and find the best face mask for you, you will be amazed at the results.

Rest easy, there is no need to be overwhelmed, just follow a few simple rules for the herbal masks that suit your skin the best and you will be loving your new and improved skin in no time.

First, many of you might not know what a face mask is. It’s simple.  Face masks (or Facial Masks) come in all types, but they are basically a skin treatment that you leave on your face for a certain amount of time then wash off.  Face Masks can remove toxins from your skin, help pull the dirt and impurities out of your clogged pores - like blackheads, lighten your skin, reduce wrinkles, moisturize or balance your skin.  Depending on the mask you choose, it can perform a variety of skin treatments. The best herbal facial mask - is the one that’s right for YOU.

First, decide what type of skin you have so you can better choose the herbal mask that suits you. Do you suffer from oily skin or dry skin? Do you breakout easily and have sensitive skin or redness or rosacea? Maybe you have combination skin - its all ok. There is a specially formulated mask out there to help all skin types.

Even if you suffer from acne, your face mask should be calming and balancing - meaning they contain ingredients that help reduce redness and allergic reactions. Natural, herbal facial masks tend to solve these problems best. Acid Peels and harsh chemicals are typically NOT a good way to treat your skin.

Key ingredients to look for in a good herbal facial mask would be:

Oatmeal - natural anti-inflammatory and skin softener

Chamomile - a natural anti-inflammatory, reduces redness and inflammation

Rosemary - Natural antibiotic, anti-microbial, astringent (great for acne)

Aloe Vera - natural skin healer, helps repair damaged cells or acne scars

Lavender:  natural anti-microbial and astringent

Marshmallow ( the herb - not the desert)  - helps reduce redness and inflammation

Green Tea - helps repair cellular damage to skin cells

Vitamins - A, C, E - all help repair skin and nourish

Of course you can use a multitude of at-home ingredients such as these to create your own herbal masks - so experiment and have fun!

While many of you may remember the face masks of years gone by - those gelatinous masks that you  put on Your answer?  ” I don’t know, do I need an herbal facial mask?”

Chances are you might. If you aren’t one of the really lucky ones blessed with perfect skin that never breaks out, never had any blemishes and never shows signs of age or wrinkles - then you might want to check out the benefits of herbal facial masks.

What’s the difference you ask?

To start, your skin is not supposed to be “used to” taking in chemicals and harmful parabens.  The human body has been raised over millennia to absorb the natural benefits of nature - sun, water, minerals, and natural vitamins to keep us healthy. In this chemical age, we have adabpted our bodies to take in so many more chemicals that our skin can handle.

The truth is, if we continue to overload our skin - including our face - with chemicals, it will no longer be able to process them.  So, we have to be aware of what facial products we are using and be very careful to use only facial products - like herbal facial masks - that can help our bodies take the constant chemical deluge we put against it.

If you start young or old, it does not matter - it is never too late to do the right thing for your skin.  try to choose herbal facial products or natural facial products as much as possible.  If you have skin conditions that have not been solved by general drug-store products full of chemicals, then it might be time to turn to herbal choices. If you choose and herbal facial mask or herbal facial treatments, you might be surprised how well they will work.  natural herbs like Chamomile and Comfrey are great at reducing your acne-prone skin be reducing inflammation and helping pull the toxins out of your skin.  If you have dry skin, then and herbal facial mask made out of oatmeal will help  pull all the moisture into your skin by  the natural ability of oats to ” plump up” and become mucilaginous>

So, don’t turn to drug store remedies - trust the herbal facial way!

Here let us highlight the most common of all herbs that are used as ingredients in most herbal facial masks and creams.

Aloe Vera is a storehouse of herbal qualities. It helps to protect the skin from UV rays of the sun. It also acts as an excellent moisturizer and emollient. Jojoba is also supposed to be a great antioxidant. When it comes to natural skin moisturizer, jojoba has no comparison! The usage of ginkgo Biloba dates back to several centuries. It is known to considerably stimulate circulation of blood in the body.

Chamomile is another major ingredient in herbal beauty products. Apart from being a great stress reliever, it helps to revitalize the skin. It is also proven to be extremely beneficial in treating age lines. Kava Kava is very effective herb used in a plethora of herbal facial masks. Kaolin is another such botanical ingredient. It is usually used as an astringent. Soy is an excellent rejuvenator.

Turmeric is used since long as a beauty enhancer. It has natural cleansing properties and makes the skin appear more radiant and smooth. Basil, likewise has both health and beauty benefits. It is especially used to treat common skin ailments. It helps to reduce skin inflammation. Rosemary is another effective herb. It overflows with beauty secrets.

So, if your herbal facial mask contains most of the above mentioned herbs, you must cheer up! Your skin is going to witness a sea change very soon! All the very best to you!

Most dermatologist and skin experts recommend consistently following a daily skin care routine. This does not have to be complicated or time-consuming.  Your daily routine can be performed in as little as five to ten minutes.

Four Simple Steps

* Cleanse
* Tone / Treat
* Moisturize
* Protect

A typical skin care routine includes the following steps: washing/cleansing, toning / treating (optional depending on skin type), moisturizing and sun protection.

Optimize for your skin type
The steps of the basic routine should be adjusted to fit your skin type. Your skin type may change with the season, diet and age. Skin tends to be oilier in the summer and drier in the winter. Menopause often brings about a change from oily or normal to dry skin. Conversely, a shift from a low-fat diet to that rich in certain fats (particularly essential fatty acids) may turn dry skin to normal. Skin pigmentation affects the degree to which you need sun protection. While sun damages any skin, the damage is far less in dark-skinned people. Conversely, fair skinned people need to be particularly meticulous about sun protection by minimizing sun exposure, choosing an effective sunscreen and applying it frequently and consistently.

Depending on your skin type, you may want to use your routine once in the morning and again before you sleep. Those with dry and/or sensitive skin may do better with once a day washing/cleansing while moisturizing two or more times a day. Exfoliation, to remove excess oils and prevent acne or blackheads, is also recommended in some cases, but exercise caution as daily exfoliation may be excessive and can lead to chronic irritation. Exfoliation once or twice a week is usually sufficient. Younger skin, like that in your 20’s and 30’s will have a fast natural epidermal turnover may need little to no exfoliation.

Cleansing
Cleaning facial skin is even more important than cleaning your body. Your face, unlike your body, is exposed to elements all day long. Dirt, pollution and oil from hands all accumulate on the epidermal layer and can clog pores and cause acne eruptions or inflammation. Like all skin care products, the best cleanser for you will be determined by your skin type. If you suffer from oily or acne-prone skin, you may benefit from an oil-free gel cleanser or one containing salicylic acid. Mature or dry skin will do best with a cream cleanser to help retain moisture. Once your face and neck are cleansed, rinse with lukewarm water and pat your skin lightly with a towel.

Toning / Treating
Toning can consist of using a store-bought toner, astringent or simple Witch Hazel. Toning or treating will balance the ph level of the skin and remove any residual dirt or oil not picked up from your cleanser. For those over the age of thirty, adding a well-selected treatment or two with scientifically proven active ingredients can further improve your results. Treatment can mean anything from skin rejuvenation products, skin discoloration items and oil absorbing agents to applying medicines for acne or eczema. If you suffer from multiple skin conditions, select an initial treatment aimed at the broadest improvement and then fine tune things from there.
Be aware of applying products to un-cleansed skin as the penetration of active ingredients will be greatly reduced. If you cleanse, moisturize and then apply advanced products, the penetration of active ingredients may still be reduced because the moisturizer has blocked some the entryways.

Moisturize
Moisturizers are essential to keep skin cells plump and hydrated. Hydrated skin will show fewer lines, wrinkles and imperfections. Even if you have oily or acne prone skin, you may still need some hydration. Look for gel-based moisturizers or lightweight formulations. Many medications and treatments appropriate for dealing with acne or oily skin automatically are drying. Don’t make the mistake of drastically drying out your skin until it is a challenge to repair. During the fall and winter months your skin may be even more vulnerable thanks to reduced humidity from indoor heating and excessive hot showers or baths.

Apply your moisturizer when your skin is clean, warm and still slightly moist. Since many active treatments have moisturizing ingredients, you may be able to skip a separate moisturizer. If you feel that you need additional moisturizing, wait a few minutes for the active treatments to absorb, and then apply your favorite moisturizer over it.

Protect
Wearing sunscreen or sun protection EVERY DAY is the proven best way to block harmful UV rays and diminish formation of wrinkles, skin discolorations and to reduce your chances of developing skin cancer. A good UVA+UVB sunscreen should be applied on top of your moisturizer or other treatments as a final step of your routine whenever sun exposure is expected.  Sunscreens come in a wide variety of bases, from those meant for oily skin to hydrating versions. Those with sensitivities to chemical sunscreens can choose natural Zinc Oxide formulations. Protective clothing can also now be improved thanks to new laundry treatments with UV protectant for widespread areas of the body mistakenly thought to be protected by your clothing.

Some skin care products or cosmetics contain added UV blockers, but they may not be enough, using a separate, specially formulated sunscreen is proven to be more effective.

And that’s it! Cleanse, Tone / Treat, Moisturize and Protect. Use these four simple steps to achieve beautiful, healthy skin. For a lifetime of skin care that can help leave your skin looking its very best, see your healthy skin as a clean canvass upon which to paint any improvements.

Author: Rachelle Dupree
Vivoderm Natural Skincare

The knowledge as regards the benefits of herbs still remains unexplored till date. People are not very clear about the innumerable benefits of herbs and herbal resources. The following lines will guide you better on some of the common herbs used in cosmetic industry.

Lemongrass is a popular cosmetic herb. The herb is bestowed with the essential anti bacterial and anti inflammatory properties. The natives of Thailand swear by the benefits of lemongrass. Thais have been making use of this wondrous herb since immemorial times. The essential lemongrass oils serve as important constituents in many facial products. Lemongrass is also an active ingredient of many facial masks, anti acne facial masks especially. The herb is known to help in the battle against ugly pimples and zits.

Turmeric is also an effective ingredient of facial herbal resources. Thais have been making use of turmeric since centuries. The herb is blessed with natural cleansing properties. As such, it acts as a magical constituent to treat whiteheads, blackheads and other forms of acne.

Marine seaweed is also famous for its moisturizing properties. Seaweed helps you to get healthy skin, nails and hair.

Besides the apparent advantages of herbal facial products, it is the aromatherapy effect that these herbs lend. The mild, pleasant and exotic scent of botanical extracts provides a soothing effect on one’s senses.

Bring back the ancient wisdom of herbs into your life!

Calendula and comfrey are used as a skin softener. They must not be used in excessive amount. Rosemary is known for its fragrance but besides that it helps to vitalize the skin. Black walnut hulls are great skin products. They are rich in anti fungal qualities and hence they are used to treat skin disorders. They come with a warning though. They are likely to give you temporary skin darkening. Red clover and nettle are great skin detoxifiers. Likewise eucalyptus and lavender help to treat skin itchiness. They are also held to be useful in skin abrasions and burns. Fennel seeds are known to give the skin a sparkle by exfoliating the layer of dead skin cells.

If you choose the herbal skincare way, you are in fact choosing the most secure way. A whole industry thrives on herbal ways to skincare and it is actually flourishing. Herbal beauty products actually make your skin breathe. There is no need to spend a bomb on worthless synthetic creams. They are mere eyewash. Herbal creams are made from the gifts of Mother Nature and there is no way they can be sham.

So, go the herbal way. Your skin will be so grateful to you.