Natural Products That Keep Your Skin Smooth and Supple

Just like your body needs fuel in the form of vitamins, minerals and other supplements to function properly, your skin needs moisture to maintain its health and natural beauty. Also, when the skin is hydrated, fine lines and wrinkles smooth out and aging signs are less likely to appear.It is not only people with dry skin who need a moisturizer to nourish and revive their skin. Normal, combination and oily skin also requires moisturizing.

If your skin is not moisturized regularly, it will start looking dull and old. This is one reason why no skin care regimen is considered complete without emphasis on the moisturizing part. In the market, you can find an endless number of moisturizing products, but many of them are likely to be loaded with harsh chemicals that harm your skin in the long run. However, there are many natural products you can use to keep your skin smooth and supple.

* Olive Oil

It contains linoleic acid, which creates a water barrier in the skin to retain moisture and promote smooth and nourished skin. Plus, the vitamin E in it neutralizes the oxidant effect of free radicals that damage collagen, one of the common reasons behind skin damage and dryness.

- Rub some lukewarm olive oil on your hands, legs and other areas of your skin.
- Massage gently using circular motions.
- Leave the oil on your skin for 30 minutes, then take a shower.
- Do this daily or several times a week, as needed.

* Coconut Oil

Just like olive oil, coconut oil is also a good skin moisturizer. The fatty acids in the oil provide deep hydration to keep dry skin supple and moisturized. Apart from locking in moisture, coconut oil also supplies the skin with essential nutrients for optimum skin health.Another plus is that coconut oil is nongreasy and suits all skin types.

- Warm up some coconut oil in a microwave for a few seconds.
- Apply this warm oil on your skin.
- Massage gently so that the oil penetrates into the skin.
- Wait 10 minutes, then take a bath or shower.
- Do this once daily, or as needed.

* Honey

If you have switched to honey to sweeten your tea or coffee, well you have made a wise decision for your health. Now it’s time to use that honey on your skin. Your dry skin will simply love it.

- Mix together 2 tablespoons each of honey and whole milk. Apply it on your skin, then wait 10 minutes before taking a shower. Repeat daily, or as needed.
- To deal with extremely dry skin, apply a layer of honey on the affected area, and allow it to sit for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse it off with lukewarm water and pat dry. Repeat 2 or 3 times a week, or more often if you have very dry skin.

* Glycerin

If you use glycerin soaps during the winter season, then why not use glycerin to keep the skin moisturized throughout the year?Glycerin is a natural humectant, meaning it attracts water and helps retain moisture on the skin.

- Thoroughly mix equal parts of glycerin and rose water (plain water will also do).
- Apply this solution on your skin before going to sleep.
- The next morning, take a lukewarm shower to rinse it off.
- Repeat daily, or as needed.

* Aloe Vera

When it comes to keeping your skin hydrated, aloe vera is just the right ingredient that you might already have in your kitchen garden or balcony.Aloe vera is rich in nutrients like vitamins E and A that can keep your skin soft and vibrant throughout the year. It also relieves itchiness and prevents flaking associated with dry skin.

- Cut open an aloe vera leaf and scoop out the gel using a spoon. Apply the gel on your skin and allow it to dry for 10 to 12 minutes. Wash it off with lukewarm water. Repeat every 2 or 3 days.
- Another option is to combine the gel from 1 aloe vera leaf and ½ cup of coconut oil (solid, not melted). Whisk the mixture with an electric or hand whisker for about 5 minutes, until you get a fluffy consistency.
- Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Use it once or twice daily, as needed.