Natural Skin Care Guide

Eczema is a skin condition in which the outer most layer of the skin (epidermis) becomes inflamed. Other symptoms of this disease are skin developing redness, skin edema (swelling), itching and dryness, crusting, flaking, blistering, cracking, oozing bleeding, temporary discoloration of skin or scarring of skin. There are various types of eczema. In atopic eczema itchy rashes appears in areas like head and scalp, neck, inside of elbows, behind knees, and buttocks and are often followed by hay fever and asthma. The cause of this type of eczema is thought to hereditary. Contact dermatitis can result from delayed reactions to some allergens or as a result of direct reaction from a solvent like sodium lauryl sulphate. In Xerotic eczema the skin becomes so dry that it turns into eczema. The problem is confounded during the dry winter. Limbs and trunks are generally the target areas. Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin condition characterized by dry or greasy peeling of the scalp, eyebrows, and face, and sometimes trunk.

The symptoms of eczema can be suppressed effectively by using glucocorticoid (a corticosteroid) ointments, creams or lotions. For mild-moderate eczema a weak steroid may be used (e.g. hydrocortisone or desonide), whilst more severe cases require a higher-potency steroid (e.g. clobetasol propionate, fluocinonide). However, prolonged use of topical cortisosteroids can make the skin thin and fragile (atrophy). In severe cases of eczema oral cortisosteroids such as prednisolone or injections such as triamcinolone injections are also prescribed. In some cases, topical immunomodulators are used for suppressing the immune system in the affected area. When the skin becomes dry and cracked the protective barrier of the skin is disrupted making it easier for the bacteria to enter. Constant scratching makes the condition worse by spreading the infection from one area to another. To check any further deterioration antibiotic is generally used. Drying of the skin can aggravate the skin condition. So, it is important to moisturize the skin properly. Avoid using soap and harsh detergents on the affected area as it can rip the skin of its essential oils and increase the dryness. Instead use emollient, a non cosmetic moisturizer found in form of creams, ointment, lotion and gel. The patient should wash the affected area with plain water only and use cleanser only when water is unable to remove the dirt from the skin. Choose a fat based unscented soap. Do a patch test before using the soap. Try a non soap based cleanser to clean the area. It is advisable not to use soap regularly. Since eczema can start as an allergic reaction to house dust mites and excrements, measures should be taken to reduce the amount of mite antigens. Light therapy using UVA rays, UVB and Narrow Band UVB can be used to control eczema. Allergic reactions to some food products like dairy products and coffee (both caffeinated and decaffeinated), soybean products, eggs, nuts, wheat and maize (sweet corn) s can trigger atopic dermatitis. So, it is necessary to indentify the allergens and avoid taking them.

Hygiene is more than just cleaning our body. It includes the practices that help us stay healthy. Good hygiene not only saves us from many diseases but also makes us feel good about ourselves and our bodies. Good hygiene includes regularly washing the body, hair, brushing and flossing the teeth. While a certain amount of bacteria is harmless to our body, a buildup of bacteria can lead to many diseases. So, good hygiene is necessary for us to stay healthy. The skin is made up of two layers. The outer layer consists of dead skin which shed from time to time and the inner layer made of blood vessels, glands etc. the oil glands secrete oil to keep the skin from drying out. Washing of the skin makes it free of the dirt, excess oil and dead skin.

When children grow up they experience physical and mental changes due to certain hormonal changes. It becomes extremely important for them to give more time and care in cleaning their body while dealing with bad breath, acne or a stronger body odor.

Skin hygiene particularly of the hands, has been accepted as a primary mechanism to control the spread of infectious agents through fecal -oral transmission. In industrialized countries due to changes sociological patterns (eg. frequent consumption of commercially prepared foods, expanded childcare facilities) the risk of exposure to infectious agents has increased many folds.

Washing hands can prevent the common cold bacteria from spreading and infecting others. Though most of the people wash their hands they generally do not follow the proper washing procedure. Wash your hands with mild soap and warm water. Rub both the hands against each other, work up the leather and then rinse off. Wash the back and front of your hands and the wrists as well. However washing a damaged skin is less effective is reducing bacteria than the normal skin.

During puberty sweat glands especially those near under arms become very active as a result the person perspires more. When he perspires more he gets stronger body odor. Generally taking bath regularly is enough to control the body odor still some people who are prepared to go beyond that can use deodorants and antiperspirants. Deodorants work to cover up the body odor, while antiperspirants work to control, or dry up, perspiration. Some people even prefers to use perfume, cologne, or a scented soap, While there’s nothing wrong with these products, it’s important to be careful about irritating sensitive skin. During adolescence the hormone triggers the oil glands and makes them more active. They produce more sebum which results in clogging of skin pores and acne breakouts. So, keeping your skin clean can prevent the frequent occurrence of acne.

For good care of the skin it is recommend that a person washes his face two times a day with a mild soap or gentle cleanser. It is best to avoid washing too often, as the skin will become dry out. If the natural oil of the skin is washed away, the skin may become very dry and begin to itch and flake. When the skin’s natural process is interrupted, the skin may begin to produce more oil than usual, which can cause more breakouts of acne. Dermatologists also recommend that people avoid sharing makeup as it can increase the spread of bacteria. There are certain scalps problems which occur even though one’s hair is clean. However, good hygiene can prevent infection. Head lice are one of them. These parasites causing itching on the scalp and can lead to bacterial infection due to constant itching. Head lice are spread through personal contact and through sharing things such as combs, brushes, and hats. So, avoid sharing combs, brushes and hats with others. However, the problem is treatable by using a cream, lotion, or shampoo, all of which are available at pharmacies. Dandruff is another scalp problem which needs much attention. It causes swelling on the upper layer of the scalp. Dandruff can be treated using medicated shampoos and lotions available in the medical stores. There are shampoos available for all hair types. How often a person shampoos varies and depends upon that individual’s hair type. Proper oral care is also necessary to prevent tooth decay, gum diseases and bad breath.

Water comprises approximately 60% of your body. It’s basic for survival. There are also health benefits of drinking water for our skin and body. The health of our skin is related with the overall health of our body. Drinking water keeps our body hydrated and helps improve many bodily functions. These functions include digestion, absorption, circulation, and excretion. Water helps in flushing out the harmful toxins from our body. Much of the harmful toxins are held in kidney. Therefore water helps the kidney to remove the metabolic waste. When water is pure and free of chemicals it proved miracle drug as it increases your mental and physical performance. Drinking water carries the nutrients into the cells of the body. Some claim that best benefits of water can be obtained from drinking fresh distilled water as opposed to tap water. However there is no second opinion that long as the water is clean, then it is acceptable. Water is needed for the body to digest and absorb vitamins and minerals. Water gives a fresh glow to the skin and helps delay the aging process.

Drinking inadequate water cannot flush out the body toxins. As a result they build up inside our body and make escape through skin pores which leads to acne breakouts. Drinking water in large quantity helps in the treatment of skin diseases like eczema and psoriasis. In addition proper hydration helps in to remove sunken eyes and circles under the eyes.

There is no consensus on what should be the amount of water to be consumed regularly. However the reasonable option is to follow the body signals. If you are lacking in energy, having dark urine or is thirsty constantly then your body is in need of water. It is essential for the older people to drink more water because of the physiological changes in their body.

Drinking water and weight loss are directly linked to each other. Water boosts our metabolism activities and aids in weight loss. Lemon water increases the weight loss process faster by burning calories. Drinking plenty of water also reduces our appetite. Those who are doing physical exercise should drink more water to make up the loss of water that occurs through sweating.

Fruits like water melon, vegetables are good source of water. It is said that the water obtained from this source are absorbed better and retained by the body for longer time than liquid water. Beverages such as milk and juice also contribute to the daily water intake total. However it is better to avoid caffeinated drinks and alcoholic beverages which have dehydrating affects on the skin.

Here are some remedies with water which you might find useful.

• Drinking warm lemon water is the morning aids digestive system and prevents the problem of constipation and diarrhea from taking place, by ensuring smooth bowel functions.
• Spraying water on body and face frequently helps to keep skin smooth and supple.
• Good water intakes keeps headache away.
• Consumption of warm water eases the discomfort during bronchitis and arthritis.

If your skin reacts to some skin products are shows signs of irritation and redness then you probably have sensitive skin. This type of skin is very delicate that why they react adversely to environmental changes. Sensitive skin has fine texture and is prone to broken capillaries, allergies, sun burns and ingredients, fragrance oils, and artificial colors. Sensitive skin benefits greatly from natural, gentle, skin care products and treatments, including light steaming and some essential oils. It’s always a good idea to consult a dermatologist. Because he can tell you better how sensitive your skin is. You can also go for an allergic test. However if you are not considering the option of consulting a dermatologist, then you can do a test yourself before trying any new skin and beauty products. Apply a sample of the new product on a small area around your jaw line and watch for the reactions. Here are some more ways of taking care of sensitive skin.

• Choose make up which are hypo allergic and fragnance free. Restrict washing your face with a mild soap free cleanser to utmost twice a day only. Discontinue using astringent if it shows any sign of discomfort. Avoid cleansers and toners that contain alcohol or benzoyl peroxide as these tend to be too strong for sensitive skin. Instead find cleansers and lotions with calming ingredients such as lavender, sandalwood, chamomile, and rose. Tone only once daily.
• Avoid exfoliators as far as possible and limit exfoliating to once a week or every other week.
• Minimize using facial products. Use oil free, water-based and non-comedogenic (non-pore clogging) make up.
• Be sure to use a daily sunscreen that is not oil-based of minimum SPF of 15. Wear sun screen lotion even on cloudy days.
• Remember an healthy skin the reflection of a healthy diet. So, drink lots of water which will flush out the toxins. Include fresh fruits and leafy vegetables in your diet.

Herbal remedies are good for sensitive skin as they are free from the adversity of chemicals. Here are some herbal remedies for this type of skin.

• Cleanse your face with almond and jojoba oil.
• Use a fruit mask on your face
• Exfoliate your facial skin with a mixture of grapefruit with oatmeal
• Green tea can reduce the inflammation of your skin and has a soothing effect on the skin.
• Mix yoghurt and cucumber juice. Apply them on your face as a face mask.
• Aloevera also treats the blotchy sin when applied directly.

The sebaceous gland in oily skin is overactive, which leads to excesses secretion of oil as a result the skin surface becomes greasy. However one advantage of having oily skin is that they tend to age slowly. Because of oily nature of the skin wrinkles do not appear early. But as the skin remains greasy dirt and dust from the environment sticks to the skin very easily giving rise to skin problems like pimples, blemishes, white head, black heads etc. So, it is very important to keep the skin clean and clear. This type of skin has a very dull look. Here a few tips on skin care for the oily skinned people.

• Keep your skin clean but do not wash your face more than three times a day. Use a mild natural cleanser and hot water to wash your face as it dissolves oil better than cold water. Use oil based cleanser as it dissolves skin oil better than the non oil based cleansers.
• Moisturize your skin with oil free moisturizing lotion.
• Drink lot of water as this will help to flush out the toxins out of the body. Eat foods rich in protein. Your diet should have required quantity of Vitamin B5 and B2 and iron. Some rich sources of Vitamin B5 and B2 are wheat germ and organ meat. Other sources of Vitamin B2 are whole grains, beans, nuts, and royal jelly. Include leafy vegetable and fresh fruits in your diet and avoid sweet dishes, fried foods, alcoholic beverages, chocolates etc.
• Choose skin care products specifically formulated for this type of skin only.
• If required then use antiseptic night creams once or twice a week.
• Pimples are common to oily skin. To get rid of the pimples apply a paste of turmeric and neem (Meliaceae) on the pimples.
• To remove black spots apply a paste of turmeric and basil on the affected area.
• To remove excess oil from your face make a clay mask of 1 teaspoon of green clay mixed with 1 teaspoon of honey and apply it on your face. Leave it for 15 minutes then rinse off with luke warm mater.
• Apply a coat of cucumber juice on your face before applying any makeup to prevent it from becoming patchy.
• Apply cucumber and lime juice on your face for half an hour before taking bath.
• Lavender is very good for oily skin. Splash lavender water on your face several times during the day.
• Witch hazel has oil absorbing property hence is excellent for oily skin.
• Exercise benefits skin as it boosts circulation and encourages blood flow. Regular exercise will nourish and cleanse the skin from within.
• Get sufficient sleep as the skin repairs its cells during this resting phase.
• Use an astringent daily to remove excess oils. Avoid using alcohol-based products because stripping too much of oil from face will make the skin overcompensate and produce even more oil.
• Use makeup that is water based and non-comedogenic to avoid clogged pores.

Many people long for a perfectly tanned look. But sun tanning can at the same time lead to many health hazards. Skin cancer is one of the negative aspects of sun tanning. It can also make the skin age prematurely. For those who want to avoid sun tanning here are some simple tips.

• Sun burns are skin damages. They damage the outer layer of the skin which can lead to serious complications later on. So, avoid getting sun burns.
• Apply sun block to protect your skin from the harmful effects of UVA and UVB. Use a block with a SPF or Sun Protection Factor of at least 15, but preferably greater. Put the lotion on about 20 to 30 minutes before going outside so that the skin can absorb it properly. After swimming and toweling off or excessive sweating, reapply the sunscreen. Choose the right sun block for your skin. A person who perspires a lot because of sports related activities should apply a sun block formulated for these activities only whereas the swimmers can use water resistant sun block.
• 10:00AM to 3:00PM is the period of the day when the sun is hottest. So, avoid going out in the sun in this period.
• If your skin is very sensitive get a hypoallergenic sun block for yourself.
• Wear clothes that cover your body properly while spending a great deal of time outdoor. Protect your eyes by wearing dark sunglasses. Wear a hat to protect your face from sun burns.
• Don’t forget your lips. Your lips have skin on them which can get sun burnt or becomes chapped. Both ways it will look ugly. So, use a lip moisturizer with sun protection factor for your lips.
• Chances of getting a sun tan get magnified in water. So, spend as little time as possible in water. Use a sun block each time you dive into the water.
• Extra precaution has to be taken by people with fair skin, moles, and freckles or with history of sun tanning badly. Children under sixteen years of age with family history of skin cancer should avoid sun exposure.

Some precatory words for those who enjoy sun tanning and like the sun tanned look.

• The sun’s ultraviolet rays are the most threatening component of a natural sun tan.
  So, if you start your skin tanning routine during summer then limit your exposure to sun to 15 minutes initially. Increase the time limit as your skin starts getting adjusted to the heat gradually. Do not stay outside for more than two hours at a time.
• Get a sun protection lotion with SPF less than 15 but more than 7. It will provide required minimum protection to your skin. Moisturize your skin with after sun lotion.
• Those with fair skin are more prone to sun burn than the dark skinned. So, they should avoid sun exposure during the peak hours.
• Remember to wear sunglasses while tanning to protect your eyes from the scorching rays of noon sun.
• Scrub your body with a loofah pad and get rid of the dead skin before applying the tanning lotion. Test it on a small area of your body for adverse reactions before applying the tanning lotion all over your body. Apply the lotion with slow and deliberate strokes to the back of your knees, elbows, ankles and tan lines. Wipe away extra lotion to get an even bronzed look. Wash hands or gloves thoroughly with soap and water after applying sun tanning lotion and wait at least 15 minutes before getting your skin wet.