Evergreen Goodness of Herbal Facial Masks

Herbal facial masks have a WOW effect of facial skin. The goodness of herbal and other natural facial masks is unbeatable. The usage of herbs as beauty enhancing agents dates back to many centuries ago. As such, people have been aware of the herbal secrets from quite a long time.

Women’s obsession with beauty is not new. It has lingered on since ages. In earlier times, women used to explore variety of herbs and botanical extracts in order to enhance their outward looks. The richness of herbal extracts has been tried and tested by a number of women. In fact, the trend of herbal cosmetic compositions is on the upward swing these days.

One of the oldest beautifying facial treatments, herbal facial masks contain a wealth of advantages. Herbs provide a natural soothing effect on one’s soul, body and mind. The tranquil effect of certain peculiar herbs is matchless. Since it is very difficult to catch hold of herbs in their actual form, it is relatively easier to get them in a form of effective herbal facial masks. These masks have an unruffled effect on facial skin.

While purchasing herbal facial mask, it is very important to check the list of active product ingredients. This is important since there are a lot many people around the world who have an acne prone skin. For example there are many people out there who are allergic to nuts. Grounded nuts form a major component of many facial masks. The rest of you must also give a quick look at the list of constituents. There is no apparent harm in doing that! Facial products must never be bought without checking the list of constituents.

So, get a pack of herbal facial mask guys and explore the evergreen goodness of natural beauty enhancers!

Herbal Facial Masks to Rev up your Looks

Different herbal facial masks contain different herbal ingredients but they all basically strive to achieve same purpose. Increased blood circulation, skin tightening, reduction in wrinkles and other signs of aging is basically what all herbal facial masks strive to achieve. Isn’t it?

In olden times, people had easy access to exotic spices and herbs which they used for spiritual, ritualistic and cosmetic purposes. They were not acquainted with anything like laser acne removal, cosmetic surgery, facelifts, nose jobs etc but they were still beautiful. Weren’t they? It is because the people in ancient times made use of naturally available products to enhance their beauty. History provides evidence to the fact that ancient Greek and Egyptian women were exceptionally beautiful. There is also enough evidence that goes into proving that people used herbal extracts to rev up their looks in those days.

Facial masks are an unmatched way of revitalizing the facial skin. Herbal masks are all the more beneficial since they help to maintain the pH level of the skin. That is to say that an herbal facial mask actually helps to prevent premature aging of the facial skin.

It is very important to cover the neckline along with the facial skin while you indulge in mask application. Most people are heedless to this important aspect but actually this is one of the most important facts to consider.

If you go out to check which all herbs can be used for cosmetic purposes, you will be rapt to find the answer. There are millions of small yet powerful herbs which can lend you a soft, glowing and beautiful skin. All you need to do is convince yourself of the benefits of herbal facial skincare and start looking out for such products that contain genuine herbal extracts. Good luck to you!

Herbal Facial Masks for Smoothest Skin

Most of you have heard about herbal facial products but have not used it till yet. Why? If you have any confusion regarding the usage of herbal products then forget them. This is because these are the best skin products introduced till date. Herbal products for skin are used to open unclogging pores, remove dead cells and prevent re-occurrence of premature aging signs. Applying herbal facial masks once a week can lead to dramatic changes in your overall skin texture.

The most wonderful thing about herbal resources is that they can be easily made at home. A bulk of paste with best herbs from nature can be prepared with ease, which can be stored in refrigerator for quite a long period. Using these products not only creates wonder on skin but also saves lot of money which is being wasted on expensive chemical products. Such masks hydrate the skin texture from deep within. They make it soft, smooth and even toned from all areas. You can prepare different masks according to your skin tone. They can be applied on face and every other body part to make it clean and glowing.

The herbal masks benefits the skin in a number of ways and so varied natural resources can be used for making a great facial mask. Cucumber, avocado, lemon, egg white, yogurt and milk are some of the best products that can be used to make almost any kind of facial mask. Milk and yogurt provides natural moisture to skin which is extremely vital to maintain skin’s elasticity. Avocado is the best natural herb for any skin type. It fights with acne, removes pigmentation, evens out skin tone and removes signs of aging. Lemon is highly suitable if you have oily and acne prone skin.

The herbal masks are great things to be used. So, you can introduce them in your daily skin care regimen as they make it clean and clear in a much gentle way.

Combat Skin Disorders Naturally

Air around us is teemed with toxic substances that are harmful for skin. Since, face is the most exposed body part, so all kinds of problems are clearly visible on it. Most common, is acne, premature aging which is increasing due to prolong exposure to ultra violet radiations. This, however, can now be cured with nature itself. Yes, it is true! Wide assortments of herbal facial products have been introduced in market that is free from all kinds of side effects.

The most amazing thing about herbal facial treatments is that they are free from all kinds of side effects. This means that even if you have sensitive skin, you can use them without any fear. So, if you don’t want to buy products from outside then you can make them at home to ensure a glowing and soft skin. This is interesting as you can make useful herbal facial masks at home according to your skin type and your skin’s needs. These masks act as skin boosters that can make your skin healthy and rejuvenating.

Herbal masks benefits are countless and for this reason a vast number of herbal companies have introduced wide assortments of their products in market. Such products not only help you in fighting aging and acne problems but also increase blood circulation in your body which is pre-requisite for a clear skin. Mud face pack inclusive of jojoba, almond, centella, aloe, olive and kaolin are the most effective ones for treating all kinds of skin issues. If you are suffering from skin disorders like psoriasis, dermatitis and eczema then you must go for a natural herb known as MSM herb.

In addition to these herbal masks, you can also go for herbal scrubs, cleansers and moisturizers for glowing skin. These items will help you in combating all skin disorders in a natural and healthy way.

Help Your Skin Glow With Herbal Products

Herbal facial products are gaining immense popularity due to amazing benefits rendered by them. They are actually products prepared with natural herbs and ingredients that contain freshness of nature. Since, they are free from all kinds of chemical substances; these products have been considered the safest option for various skin problems.

Accompanied with numerous benefits, herbal facial masks are suitable for all skin types. This is the foremost reason for their increased usage among people. You would be happy to know that such soothing elements can be used by both men and women. Type of herb that has to be included in herbal product depends upon ultimate use which has to be obtained from it. Most common natural herbs and products used in varied herbal products are rose, neem, fuller’s earth, lemon, tulsi and fenugreek. In addition to these, other natural products included have been prepared with beneficial items of nature.

The most wonderful thing about herbal masks is that they are free from harmful chemicals. These chemicals are suitable for short time use but can cause long lasting adverse reactions if you continue using such harsh products. Natural products are free from these side effects and when once used provides long term effects. You can own a glowing, soft and shining skin that with the use of these natural products. Everyone can find a facial mask according to different skin types from variety of herbal facial products that are available today. There are clay masks, oxy masks, mud masks, anti-acne masks and various others that can produce desired skin results.

So, whether you are a teenage girl or a boy, an adult or old age, you can get an herbal facial mask for yourself. These products will not only make your skin glow but will also provide amazing long lasting skin effects.

Herbal Facial Care with Green Tea

What is Tea?

So How Is Green Tea Good For My Skin?

There have been number studies of skin benefits of green tea. One of these studies show protection from skin cancer by demonstrating topical green tea formulations can reduce sun damage.(1) Another fascinating study in 2003 was conducted by Dr. Stephen Hsu of the Medical College of Georgia Department of Oral Biology. His findings determined green tea was able to rejuvenate old skin cells at the end of their life cycle.

A quote from Dr. Hsu’s paper explained, “…we report here for the first time, that at certain concentrations, EGCG or a mixture of the major green tea polyphenols stimulated aged keratinocytes to generate biological energy and to synthesize DNA, possibly for renewed cell division.

Therefore, green tea constituents may be useful topically for promoting skin regeneration, wound healing, or treatment of certain epithelial conditions such as aphthous ulcers, psoriasis, rosacea, and actinic keratoses.” (2) Dr. Hsu went on to comment he was “so surprised” to discover EGCG actually reactivated cells that had migrated toward the surface of the skin to ‘die’.

Green tea appears to manipulate sun damage protection by fighting free radicals and reducing inflammation rather than by blocking UV rays. Therefore, green tea enhances sun protection when used in addition to a sunscreen. To boost sun protection, apply a green tea formula under your sunscreen to elevate the level of sun protection. It is best to combine green tea with zinc oxide-based sunscreens because zinc oxide is chemically inert and should not react with green tea (which some chemical sunscreens might do, especially in sunlight). You can also look for green tea in natural soaps, and other facial cleansers.

Topical green tea is also very beneficial for sensitive skin types by reducing inflammation and irritation in the skin. Wrinkles, skin sag and other signs of aging have been shown to benefit from Green tea. The tea’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory polyphenols slow down signs of premature of aging

Green Tea and Pimples

A green tea and pimples study suggests it to be as good as benzoyl peroxide cream in treating acne conditions with fewer side effects. Scientific research has shown that green tea fights bacteria, inflammation and reduces stress. Perhaps it would be an excellent candidate for treating acne?

In the study, conducted by Dr. Jennifer Gan-Wong from the Memorial Medical Center in the Philippines, 108 participants were divided into two groups. One applied benzoyl peroxide cream and the other green tea extract cream twice daily for 12 weeks. Subjects were examined and photographed each week by dermatologists. The researchers noted the green tea cream seemed to lighten patients’ skin color and improve the overall appearance of their complexion.

The preliminary data suggests that green tea cream causes fewer side effects than benzoyl peroxide. Patients in the green tea group reported fewer cases of dry skin, itching and allergic responses.

Use green tea at home to boost your skins health, appearance and reduce signs of aging by freezing freshly brewed green tea as ice cubes and use them as a toner. Let them start thawing first before applying directly to the face to avoid irritation. You can also drink green tea or take green tea extract in capsules to benefit from the anti oxidant properties. The polyphenols will reach your skin via the bloodstream in sufficient amounts.

Using green tea in your skincare routine has definite proven benefits to slow skin aging, reduce acne and protect your skin from cancer among many others. Just be aware of the products you choose. Like most antioxidants, green tea polyphenols are oxidized and can lose their active constituents when exposed to air.

By Tiffany Oney and Rachelle Dupree

References:

(1) Green Tea Polyphenol Treatment to Human Skin Prevents Formation of Ultraviolet Light B-induced Pyrimidine Dimers in DNA (2000). Santosh K. Katiyar, Anaibelith Perez and Hasan Mukhtar. Clinical Cancer Research Vol. 6, 3864-3869, October 2000.

(2) Green Tea Polyphenols Induce Differentiation and Proliferation in Epidermal Keratinocytes (2003). Stephen Hsu, Wendy B. Bollag, Jill Lewis, Qin Huang,Baldev Singh, Mohamed Sharawy, Tetsuya Yamamoto, and George Schuster. Journal of Pharmacology And Experimental Therapeutics. First published on March 27, 2003; DOI: 10.1124/jpet.103.049734

Herbal Skin Care History and Aloe Vera Plants

HERBAL SKIN CARE was used as far back 1400BC. The ancient Egyptians are known to to have used herbs, and oils. IN Queen Thuthu’s tomb a box was found containing a pumice stone for smoothing rough skin, eye pencils of wood and ivory used for applying kohl and antimony to the eyes. A bronze dish for mixing ingredients such as lapis lazuli powder for eye shadow, along with three cosmetic pots she probably used for making her own skin care henna, scented oils and creams.

The ancient Greek were well known for their use of herbs and oils for making herbal skin care beauty preparations. Even going to the point of making a connection between health and beauty. The science of dermatology was developed by Hippocrates, the famous Greek physician.

The Romans dyed their hair with myrtle and walnut husk, darkened their eyes with kohl, bathed their heads with extracts of myrtle and juniper berries to prevent their hair from thinning and rubbed alkanet root on their ckeek to make them rosy. Back in those times I’m sure they had the freshest of herbs, and used a lot of them.

Aloe Vera is porbably one of the oldest and most-well know of the medicinal herbs.

Medicinal and Cosmetic uses of Aloe Vera

Scientific evidence for the cosmetic and therapeutic effectiveness of Aloe vera has been contradictory unfortunatley. The cosmetic and alternative medicine industries regularly make claims regarding the soothing, moisturizing and healing properties of Aloe vera. But if you are a skeptic, all you have to do is rub a little aloe vera leaf on your stinging burn or bug bite, to immediately feel relief.  You know it works when you use it.

Aloe vera gel is used as an ingredient in commercially available lotion, yogurt, beverages and some desserts. Aloe vera juice is used for consumption and relief of digestive issues such as heartburn and irritable bowel syndrome. It is common practice for cosmetic companies to add sap or other derivatives from Aloe vera to products such as makeup, tissues, moisturizers, soaps, sunscreens, incense, razors and shampoos and facial masks.

Aloe vera juice for ingestion.

Aloe vera has a long association with herbal medicine, although it is not known when its medical applications were first discovered. Early records of Aloe vera use appear in the Ebers Papyrus from 16th century BCE, in both Dioscorides’ De Materia Medica and Pliny the Elder’s Natural History written in the mid-first century CE along with the Juliana Anicia Codex produced in 512 CE. Aloe vera is non-toxic, with no known side effects, provided the aloin has been removed by processing.

Taking Aloe vera that contains aloin in excess amounts has been associated with various side effects.However, the species is used widely in the traditional herbal medicine of China, Japan, Russia, South Africa, the United States, Jamaica and India.

Aloe vera is alleged to be effective in treatment of wounds. Evidence on the effects of Aloe vera sap on wound healing, however, is limited and contradictory. Some studies, for example, show that Aloe vera promotes the rates of healing, while in contrast, other studies show that wounds to which Aloe vera gel was applied were significantly slower to heal than those treated with conventional medical preparations. A more recent review (2007) concludes that the cumulative evidence supports the use of Aloe vera for the healing of first to second degree burns. In addition to topical use in wound or burn healing, internal intake of Aloe vera has been linked with improved blood glucose levels in diabetics, and with lower blood lipids in hyperlipidaemic patients, but also with acute hepatitis (liver disease). In other diseases, preliminary studies have suggested oral Aloe vera gel may reduce symptoms and inflammation in patients with ulcerative colitis. Compounds extracted from Aloe vera have been used as an immunostimulant that aids in fighting cancers in cats and dogs; however, this treatment has not been scientifically tested in humans. The injection of Aloe vera extracts to treat cancer has resulted in the deaths of several patients.

Topical application of Aloe vera may be effective for genital herpes and psoriasis. However, it is not effective for the prevention of radiation-induced injuries. Although anecdotally useful, it has not been proven to offer protection from sunburn or suntan. In a double-blind clinical trial the group using an Aloe vera containing dentifrice and the group using a fluoridated dentifrice both demonstrated a statistically significant reduction of gingivitis and plaque.

Aloe vera extracts have antibacterial and antifungal activities. Aloe vera extracts have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi that cause tinea; however, evidence for control beneath human skin remains to be established. For its anti-fungal properties, Aloe vera is used as a fish tank water conditioner. For bacteria, inner-leaf gel from Aloe vera was shown to inhibit growth of Streptococcus and Shigella species in vitro.  In contrast, Aloe vera extracts failed to show antibiotic properties against Xanthomonas species.

Commodity uses

Aloe vera is now also widely used on face tissues, where it is promoted as a moisturizer and/or anti-irritant to reduce chafing of the nose of users who suffer hay-fever or cold.

So, whatever your cosmetic or medicinal needs, there are thousands of herbal complements to aid healing and skin regeneration, don’t just rely on the same old chemical brands found in your drugstore. Take the time to learn about herbal plants and their medicinal uses and help detoxify your chemical-laden system in the process!

Lavender As A Key Ingredient in Skin Care Products

Our skin is the reflection of our health and vitality, physical, mental and emotional wellness. A radiant and glowing skin indicates good health, positive attitude and vibrates self-confidence. One of the best ways to take good care of your skin is to feed it natural, nourshing ingredients. Avoiding toxins and chemical-laden products will do wonders to help many skin and health issues, such as; clearing up acne-prone skin, gaining a more restful nights sleep, fewer trips to the doctor or pharmacist, gaining an overall healthier appearance and energetic body and mind.

Of the many herbal and organic ingredients we can choose for our skincare and health regimes, lavender is by far the most-well-known, frequently used and most versatile.

What is Lavender?

Lavender’s botanical name is Lavendula officinalis / angustifolia. Lavender is a member of the Labiatae Family and is a native of the Mediterranean and Middle East regions, however, lavender plantations are now widely found around the world as species hybridisation
has enabled lavender to be grown commercially outside its natural climatic range.  The grey-green foliage and purple-blue flower spike of lavender is easily identified and commonly seen in herb gardens. Its aroma originating from the essential oil contained in lavender is readily recognized, especially when the flowers or leaves are touched.

Where does Lavender come from?

The most well known lavender comes from the Mediterranean region of France. The essential oil from the ‘French lavender’, is often preferred by Aromatherapists. However, there are two main species, Lavandula latifolia (spike or sweet lavender) and L. angustifolia (English/French lavender) that are used in commerce. Today, it flourishes throughout southern Europe, Australia, and the United States.

What are the properties in Lavender?

Lavender is used in many forms. Herbalists are most likely to use lavender in the form of tea or as a herbal extract. Aromatherapist
however, will use the essential oil extracted by steam distillation from the flowers of lavender in their treatments. And newer pharmceutical and skin care usage has seen lavender explode as a key ingredient in everything from soaps to skin creams to cosmetics.

Benefits of Lavender:

This versatile essential oil is familiar not only to many herbalists and skin care experts but to many laypersons as well. If you search the kitchen or first aid kit of any serious herbalist - lavender will most likely be there in the largest quantity. Lavender is one of the best natural ingredients to help stop the pain from minor kitchen accidents such as burns from the oven/stove or knife cuts. A drop of lavender can ease the pain, and only the addition of the gel-like innards of a freshly sliced open aloe vera leaf is as good a remedy for instant relief. Combining the two is recommended, as aloe vera instantly cools a hot burn.  For sunburn pain, lavender is also recommended. Pesky mosquito or other insect bites bothering you? Try adding lavender essential oil to the problem area(s) and your skin will thank you.

Headaches may disappear when you massage a tiny amount of lavender on your temples or the nape of your neck.

Lavender and relaxation are two words that are virtually synonymous with each other. However, according to author Erich Keller in his book ‘Aromatherapy Handbook for Beauty, Hair and Skin Care’ he writes: “Lavender is an all-purpose oil for skin care. Its effect is antibacterial, pain-relieving, healing for wounds, soothing for skin diseases, deodorizing, antiseptic, fungicidal, insect-repelling, rejuvenating, and anti-inflammatory. It may be used to treat all types of skin and is effective for acne and oily hair (as it regulates sebum production), itchy skin, hand care, cracked skin, bruises, shock injuries (in ice-cold compresses), acne scars, blisters, abscesses, furuncles, warts, boils, eczema, athlete’s foot (tea tree is more effective here, however), wounds, and burns. A bath with lavender soothes and heals the skin after sunburn.”

In either case, lavender has many powerful, therapeutic applications, which include:  Depression, insomnia, migraine, hysteria, nervous tension and paralysis.

Although it is not really anti-inflammatory, lavender is often useful where there is inflammation, hence its use in burns, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, boils, rheumatism, wounds, ulcers, blepharitis, conjunctivitis, cystitis, diarrhoea, laryngitis, etc. Lavender is well known for its wound healing, cleansing and toning properties and removes redness and heat from the skin, making Lavender oil a suitable addition to any skin care preparation and for any skin type.

Lavender has been shown to be very useful in the relief of burns in which case it can be applied neat to the area. Research has confirmed that lavender produces calming, soothing, and sedative effects.

Using natural ingredients is crucial to making good quality natural skin care products. Not only are using natural ingredients safer to use, but they also have less negative impact on our environment.  Lavender is suitable for use in any skin type. It’s gentle, soothing and calming properties are especially indicated for use on sensitive, dry and/or irritated skin. It is also a popular ingredient in shampoos, soaps, hair conditioners and body lotions.

Lavender’s use in skin care products is far and wide. Because of its soothing, calming properties it is an ideal ingredient in cleansers and moisturizers, but is also of value in toners and masks.  In moisturizers, lavender may be combined with other ingredients such as chamomile, jojoba, calendula, avocado and others, to reinforce the calming and soothing effects of lavender.

Herbal Skin Detoxifier (steam treatment)

Gather the following ingredients:

Juniper berries (Juniperus communus)

Used for: Detoxifying.

Chamomile Flowers (Matricaria recutita)

Used for: Soothing and calming.

Calendula Flowers (Calendula officinalis)

Used for: Softening the skin.

Lavender Flowers (Lavendula angustifolium) and Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Used for: Their antiseptic properties, also Lavender is an anti-depressant, stress reliever and helps relieve insomnia (also adds a beautiful scent).

Before putting head covered with towel over bowl, add the following essential oils:

1 drop of Patchouli (Pogostemon patchouli)

Used for: dry and mature skin, regenerator, moisturizer, fungicide.

2 drops of Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)

Used for: Its high germicidal value.

3 drops of Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)

Used for: cellular regeneration, also balances sebum.

(substitute Lavender if pregnant)

Add all ingredients to warm water in a non-metallic pan and heat slowly (harder substances like roots, berries and bark for a longer period of time, leaves for less time, and flowers for the shortest amount of time).

Pour mixture into a large bowl. Cover your head with a towel surrounding the bowl and lean over the bowl to breathe in the mixture’s properties for about 10-15 minutes.

{CAUTION: Herbs to be avoided during pregnancy: Basil, Clary Sage, Fennel, Geranium, Hyssop, Juniper, Pennyroyal, Peppermint, Sage and Thyme}

Recipe courtesy of SharAmbrosia