Here are 4 natural products that may be used in your skin care routine.
1. Coconut Oil is a versatile skin (and food) ingredient, even being popular in ancient times. Virgin coconut oil contains medium chain fatty acids and some long-chain fatty acids. These fatty acids are good at fighting bacteria, fungi, viruses, free radicals and parasites that attack your outer and inner layer of skin.
Coconut oil may be used on skin and hair to help cleanse, moisturise, remove makeup, heal wounds or scars quicker and prevent razor burn. Coconut oil used internally is also beneficial for your looks as it contains healthy fats that help nourish your gut and increase the immune function.
2. Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca alternifolias) is a native plant of Australia and is known for its topical antiseptic and anti-fungal treatment or infection-reducing properties. It also has antibiotic elements and helps aid against breakouts, redness and inflammation on the skin. While many people react harshly to some topical acne treatments, tea tree oil is usually well-tolerated and comes with few, if any, of the nasty side effects.
Tea tree oil uses include working as a natural anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, antimicrobial and anti-fungal agent and can even help as a natural way of dealing with lice and ticks. The main active ingredients responsible for its ability to reduce harmful bacteria include Terpene hydrocarbons, Monoterpenes and Sesquiterpenes.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar is a natural skin care product which contains a high amount of Alpha Hydroxy Acid, often used in skin care cleansers. Apple cider vinegar benefits include helping to kill pathogens (aka bacteria), clearing skin problems caused by gut issues, cleansing the skin and helping to stop acne, plus providing antifungal properties. This must be used diluted on the skin (in a ratio of about 2 tablespoons of Vinegar per 250ml of water)
It also contains highly beneficial Malic Acid and Acetic Acid (AHA's) and vitamins like potassium and magnesium, that make it a detoxifying agent when consumed internally, helping the liver function.
4. Raw Honey is one of the best natural sources of nutrients, enzymes, vitamins and skin-boosting acids. As it has a pH level of 4.5, raw honey falls within skin’s naturally healthy pH range. Its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties make it great for healing cuts and burns by helping kill bacteria and fungus. Raw honey also contains gluconic acid, a mild alpha hydroxy acid that contributes towards brightening the complexion, evening out skin tone and lightening scars and age spots.