With winter fast approaching, the constant switch between cold temperatures outdoors and heating indoors can lead to dry, chapped and sensitive skin.
Although skin flare ups cannot be entirely avoided, there are certain natural ingredients that can help to calm and soothe problem skin. Where possible, try to choose products that include a couple of these 10 winter-wonder ingredients.
1. Aloe Vera
The majority of people associate Aloe Vera with helping sunburn and scars, but this wonder plant also possesses bacteria-fighting and soothing ingredients which reduce inflammation, itching and cracked skin.
2. Coconut Oil
Coconut Oil has an abundance of health benefits, one of which is treating severely dry skin. The medium-chain triglycerides (saturated fats) found in coconut oil work to provide deep, long-lasting moisture to the skin. Simply apply to the affected areas every night before bed.
3. Calendula Oil
The Calendula plant is full of anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties making it naturally ideal for red, sore, inflamed and cracked skin.
4. Raw Honey
Not just a treat for your taste buds! Honey (as raw and natural as possible) is one of the best natural sources of enzymes, vitamins, nutrients and skin-boosting acids. Honey is a humectant, which means it traps and retains moisture.
5. Pomegranate
In particular, the peel of this amazing fruit contains ellagic acid, which effectively prevents the moisture in your skin cells from drying out. Consequently, if the skin cells remain hydrated it will prevent any intense drying.
6. Olive Oil
We all know Olive Oil has been hailed as a miracle elixir for as long as we can remember! Enriched with Vitamin E & A, this oil does wonders to hydrate the skin and maintain softness. It is also amazing for those with very sensitive skin, and can be used all over your body, hair and face without having to worry!
7. Avocado
Yes, it is extremely delicious and makes for an excellent salad addition, but this ultra-moisturising fatty fruit also includes a generous amount of vitamins A, D and E that effectively penetrate the skin.
8. Jojoba
Native to the southern US and Mexico, this is one of the most widely used carrier oils. It is hugely moisturising, and has even been celebrated to improving severe acne, sunburn and chapped skin for generations.
9. Water
As obvious as it sounds, one cannot provide a list of natural ingredients to work wonders on your skin without including water. There have been varying disputes regarding the effect that water consumption has on the skin, but the bottom line is that skin is an organ and as with any other part of the body, your skin is made up of cells. If your skin is not getting the sufficient amount of water, the lack of hydration will be evident by turning your skin dry, tight and flaky.
10. Shea Butter
You may have noticed that several moisturisers contain Shea Butter. It has been used as a natural skin saviour in Africa for over 500 years, and it is still largely cultivated around the rest of the world. The main components of Shea Butter are oleic acid, stearic acid and linoleic acid, which are rapidly absorbed into the skin as it melts at body temperature = quick and instant moisture boost for your cracked, dry skin!