When we think about skincare and in particular issues that affect the skin, there is often a sense of urgency to solve them in the fastest possible time. This is understandable as having visible problems with the skin, particularly on the face can cause big problems when it comes to self-image and self-esteem.
In a rush to clear up problematic skin, many turn to commercial skin care products that include complex chemicals. Whilst these might clear up the issue, it is only a superficial remedy- superficially healing it, yet not curing the root of the problem. When it comes to skincare, there is no one-size fits all and what works for one person, may not for another.
The good news is that there are now many options for new approaches to skincare. One of these is the holistic approach that takes into consideration the whole body, including the mind and soul. We don’t realise that we need to be more aware of what affects our skin and that we need to nurture a gentle relationship with it. We need to evaluate other parts of our body and give ourselves a constant level of attention.
The next step is to put the harsh weapons down- step away from the chemicals, many of which can actually exacerbate the problem rather than help it. Most cleaners for oily skin or acne prone skin contain AHA (Alpha hydroxyl acid) glycolic acid, and salicylic acid which are synthetically derived and are found in large amounts in commercial skincare. These chemicals strip the oil from your skin, including the oils that are needed to keep your skin healthy. This, in turn, makes the skin dry as well as encourages increased oil production which actually worsens the issue in the long run. These type of products can also thin the skin and make it more prone to irreversible skin damage. Whilst these compounds can be found in natural products as well, they are naturally derived and occur in much smaller amounts.
So what is the alternative?
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If you have oily skin, lather up in that clay (green clay, bentonite clay) for just 2 minutes daily as this will help to both detoxify and balance your skin. If your skin is more normal to dry, then it is best to avoid all foaming cleaners and instead use hydrosol as tonic once a day, or a milk such as almond milk. You can then wash every 2 or 3 days with a mild clay such as kaolin clay or rhassoul clay.
If you are prone to sensitive skin, kaolin clay and vegetarian milk are perfect to nurture and soothe the skin. Mature and sun damaged skin is well suited to Moroccan red clay combined with goats milk.
For combination skin, you can use all of the above alternately and in perfect harmony with one another.
Don’t forget to be gentle with your skin- touch it as you would a loved one and try to avoid scrubbing or being rough with it. Your skin needs TLC, remember that!
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Also, remember that cleansing does not include moisturising so you need to be sure to include a moisturiser after each cleanse.
Be present to your skin and it will love you back!
Anxhela Panxhi
Holistic Beauty Crafter
Holistic Esthetician
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