Rub a Dub Dub, You Can Get Clean Without the Tub!

With outdoor weather being upon most of us, it is time to pay very close attention to the skin. Of course moisturizing and protection are always important, but you really need to begin at the beginning for any treatment regimine to work properly. Which, in skin care, means cleaning and exfoliateing first! Here are a couple of recipes that you can easily make and use at home!

Facial Cleanser

This is a very quick and easy wash for oily skin, especially when you don't have a lot of time. This wash is very effective for removing dirt and residue from the face. Simply add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to 2 tablespoons of distilled water, in a small bowl. Mix, then apply to face with a cotton ball, avoiding the eye area. Rinse with tepid water and pat dry.

Cleansing paste

Finely grind 1/2 cup oatmeal in a blender or food processor. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons honey, 1/4 cup plain yogurt (you can substitute buttermilk if you'd like), and the ground oatmeal. Mix thoroughly, until it has a paste-like consistencey. Smooth the mixture over your face and neck, leave on for 15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water and pat dry. You can use this cleansing mask daily, but it is preferable for the mornings.

Ground oatmeal is a gentle exfoliator, removing residue and dead surface cells, but it also helps to restore the skins moisture. Yogurt softens the skin, while honey is a natural humectant. Together, these ingredients make an effective, everyday cleansing moisturizer.

Cleanser for Normal Skin

In a bowl, mix 2 teaspoons of crushed fennel seeds with 2 sprigs of crushed, fresh thyme (or you can use 1/2 tablespoon of dried thyme). Cover this mixture with boiling water, add the juice of 1/2 of a lemon and allow to steep for 15 minutes. Once the time is up, strain the infusion and keep the left-overs in a jar in the refrigerator. To use, simply dab onto your face with a cotton ball. This mixture is great for not only cleansing and toning, but it also helps to reduce puffiness and

superficial irritation. Thyme is a great astringent, often used in antiseptic preperations. This cleanser is very gentle and can be used daily.

A new job for an old vegetable!

Slice a ripe tomato and rub it all over your face. Let the juice soak in for 5 minutes. The mild acid in the tomato will bring dirt and impurities to the surface of the skin. When time is up, rinse thoroghly with tepid water and pat dry.