Top 5 Natural Skin Cleansing Oils

Top 5 Natural Skin Cleansing Oils

Cleansing your skin with an aromatherapy carrier oil is a great idea for those of you looking for a more natural way to care for your skin. Not only do carrier oils help to moisturise and tone the skin thereby improving both its look and feel, they also effectively dissolve dirt and impurities.
You are left with beautiful, silky-soft skin without having to resort to a cocktail of chemicals.
One of the main advantages of using vegetable-based skin cleansing oils for your beauty routine is that they are suitable for all skin types. Some of these natural oils even contain anti-inflammatory agents that effectively reduce redness, aiding those that suffer from acne or eczema. They are also deeply moisturising without being greasy, which really suits dry and sensitive skin.
Another benefit of cleansing your face with oils is that they are also very effective for removing makeup too, including stubborn waterproof mascara. Since it is often waterproof, it is much harder to remove than regular make-up and requires more than just water. This is where using natural oils can be useful for cleansing rather than cleansers with harsh chemicals.
There are plenty of leading-brand skin cleansing oils that have been around for a while now, but they can be very pricey and often contain unwanted additives too. There’s no need to pay these over-the-top prices. If you can’t find a cleansing oil at the right price, here are five popular and effective aromatherapy carrier oils that you can use to dissolve dirt at the same time as re-hydrating and plumping tired skin.
Jojoba oil
Jojoba oil is great for oily, dry, and combination skin as it is the closest oil to our skin’s own natural lubricant, sebum. In use, this oil seems to actively help your skin to regulate how much natural oil it produces. It is also incredibly nourishing, helping to both tone and smooth the skin, and it even helps to unclog blocked pores.
If you suffer from oily skin, jojoba can still help to soften and moisturize without making your skin feel like an oil slick. Providing you don’t slather too much on (a little goes a long way), it is absorbed very quickly and hardly leaves a trace. Jojoba oil is fantastic for dry skin, and its anti-inflammatory qualities helps to soothe red patches whilst moisturizing and softening it.
Whether you plan to use just one, or several oils blended together for your cleansing oil, it is a good idea to include at least 20 percent jojoba if at all possible to make the most of its benefits. And finally; because it is extracted from the seeds of the plant, jojoba oil is perfect for those that need a deeply moisturising product but cannot use nut oils. The perfect cleansing oil!
Avocado (Unrefined) oil
This oil is absolutely fantastic for those with dry, sensitive or mature skin, because it penetrates the deeper layers of the skin and is highly nourishing. Avocado oil has a rejuvenating action that helps to repair surface damage on the skin, fights the signs of ageing, and helps to restore balance to red and painful areas.
Among the many natural goodies it contains are vitamins A and E, which will also help to smooth and soften the skin, while the oil’s high concentration of fatty acids nourishes deeply. It also contains high levels of antioxidants, which help to prevent damage to the skin by fighting off free radicals. All-in-all avocado oil helps to create gorgeous, supple skin.
When buying Avocado oil always choose the unrefined type since it has not had all the vital nutrients removed during processing to lighten the dark green-brown colour and remove the slightly nutty aroma. Believe me; putting up with the aroma is well worth the effort in the quest for a great complexion.
Unrefined avocado oil is quite rich, so to make it easier to use you can mix it with a lighter carrier oil such as apricot at around a 20% concentration to make it lighter to use.
Apricot kernel oil
Another great oil for dry and sensitive skin is apricot kernel. This oil is one of the mildest available for cleansing the skin, making it a must if you suffer from easily-irritated or sore skin.
As well as being gentle, it is moisturising too, leaving skin wonderfully soft after dealing with any dry patches. While it is nourishing, it is also one of the very lightest oils so it won’t be too heavy for anyone to use as a skin cleansing oil. Its light consistency means that as well as being perfect for oil cleansing, you can also use it as a daytime moisturiser for added benefit.
Calendula infused oil
Calendula oil is produced by infusing marigold flowers in a vegetable oil such as sunflower, and it makes a highly versatile skin care product. The healing properties of marigold flowers are legendary, so this oil is the ideal choice for those who have skin problems.
Use it to soothe red, irritated and sensitive skin, or on eczema or psoriasis. It can also help to treat thread veins or broken veins on the face, plus dry and chapped hands that have been subjected to abuse whilst washing-up or gardening. Quinessence calendula oil is infused in sunflower oil which makes it another safe option as an oil cleanser if you have nut allergies.
Hazelnut oil
Containing vitamins A, D and E, another great choice for oily skin is hazelnut oil which has astringent properties which can help to reduce the levels of excess sebum if used regularly. As well as being great at removing makeup and dirt, hazelnut oil also has deeper-penetrating properties than most other carrier oils which is why it’s used in so many high quality skincare products.
Since this oil is quickly absorbed it also acts as a protective barrier that helps your skin retain moisture, keeping it looking soft, healthy and plump. Its astringent action helps to stimulate circulation throughout your skin, which is important for keeping it looking and feeling healthy.
It is also a nice light oil, which means it won’t feel heavy on your skin – ideal if your pores tend to feel a bit clogged. Like most of the others, you can use hazelnut oil on its own as well as mixing it with another carrier oil for cleansing your skin.
How to use skin cleansing oils
All you need is your chosen oil(s), some hot water, and a facecloth. Choose which oil you are going to use, or if you are using a blend prepare it in advance. Run some hot water into the washbasin and immerse your facecloth in it. Rinse your face first, then wring out the excess water and apply the cloth to your face for 30 seconds to open up your pores. Longer is better if you have the patience!
Next, pour a small quantity of oil into the palm of your hand or a cotton pad, and apply gently to your face avoiding the eyes. Massage gently in circles, moving in an upward direction for up to 2 minutes to fully dissolve dirt and makeup. Allow the oil to continue working on your face for 1 more minute.
Finally, use your facecloth to gently remove the oil. After all the oil has been removed rinse your facecloth with some fresh hot water and liquid soap. Follow up with your moisturiser to complete the treatment.
It only takes a little more time than the conventional method when using skin cleansing oils, but the results can be well worth the effort. Try it yourself for a week and see how your skin feels.

How do we treat dry, itchy skin naturally and for good

 Here are some ways that have truly changed my skin for the best … forever!

1. Oil
Though you may be tempted to lather your body with lotion when dealing with dry skin, your best — and more natural — option is oil. Most conventional moisturiser contain humectants to lock in moisture, but they can also work in reverse and pull much-needed hydration out of your skin. Oil, on the other hand, will sink into your skin and stay there.
Organic almond, jojoba, olive, rosehip, neem, macadamia, marula, and coconut oils are my favourites and are incredible for the entire body as well as your face. They’re skin-firming oils that help to fight wrinkles and acne, all while creating a supple, beautiful complexion.

2. Fish oil and marine collagen
Fish oil and marine collagen are two very effective products to moisturise skin from the inside out. On their own, they work well, but when you combine them, they can lead to a near-perfect complexion.
High in omegas, fish oil will help your cells get and maintain their health, lead to supple cell membranes (which equals plump, hydrated skin), and keep moisture locked in to your skin. I find that it helps with everything from lightening dark circles to dry skin to acne. And since marine collagen is a fibrous protein extracted from the skin of a fish, when you add marine collagen to the mix it’ll help slow the effects of aging and reverse environmental damage (such as dry skin!).

3. Hydrating masks
Using these is a great, easy way to combat dry skin, especially if you’re going the DIY route and can control the ingredients. If you want to purchase a mask, look for ingredients like honey, sea kelp, oil, or berries, as they’re all natural ways to treat the condition. To make your own, mix equal parts manuka honey, organic olive oil, raspberries, lemon, and turmeric. Whip them together in a bowl and then apply to face and dry areas for a potent anti-inflammatory, hydrating treatment.

4. Water
If you do nothing else for your skin, at least make sure you’re drinking plenty of water. Almost 60 percent of our bodies are made of water, so it’s crucial to the health of not only our skin, but to every single cell we’re made up of. First and foremost, water helps to flush toxins from your body, so any nasties hiding inside that might be contributing to your dry skin are likely to get washed out with enough hydration. Water is also your skin’s best friend, so drink up!
In terms of the water you’re washing yourself with, it might be time to invest in a filtered shower head and faucet. Many cities have “hard” water, meaning it’s high in mineral content. These minerals have the ability to dry out your skin or even leave a film on your body that will suck moisture over time.
5. Moisturising soap
Using the correct soap is essential to winning your dry skin battle. Many soaps can be dehydrating because they’re conventionally designed to be industrial and contain sodium, which is disruptive to skin. Repeated use of this kind of soap will dry the skin out since sodium interferes with the body’s natural protective layer that keeps moisture in. Look for moisturising soap in which the first or second ingredient is a natural oil or butter, and that contains essential oils. If you can find some without water or sodium, even better!
If you’re doing all these things and still experiencing dry skin, you might want to try eliminating these things from your diet to see a difference:

Coffee
I know life without your precious cup of joe seems daunting, but doesn’t a life with dull skin sound worse? If you’re doing all of the above and still experiencing dry, dull, or aging skin, look no further. Coffee is an appetite depressant as well as a diuretic, meaning it depletes the amount of water your body gets, needs, and holds on to.
Caffeine
Speaking of caffeine-free, this dehydrating little bugger is sneaking into your life in all kinds of ways … not just through your morning cup! Try replacing soda and energy drinks with ginseng, ginger, or lemon water for a natural boost of energy and a glowing complexion!
Alcohol
You wouldn’t put alcohol on your face when you’re battling dry skin, so why put it in your body? Alcohol is one of the biggest roadblocks we face when it comes to our skin. If you must drink, try drinking an alcohol that’s organic or comes from a plant (like organic wine or gluten-free beer) instead of hard alcohol. This will minimise the damage, but the only way to completely avoid the risk is to stop drinking completely. I know it’s a bit of a bummer, but at least eliminating some days (or some hours) of drinking in a week can truly show a drastic improvement! Your skin will thank you.

Face Mask

Skin Saving Mask

This all natural face mask will have your skin thanking you!  It’s luxurious, effective, very affordable and easy to make.  It also smells amazing! I use mine 3-5 times a week to cleanse and detoxify my skin and it has worked wonders in preventing break outs and curing acne and post-acne redness! It also works really well as a spot treatment.  As you can tell, I’m a little in love with my skin saving concoction. And super excited to share it!

WHAT YOU’LL NEED (& WHY):

5 Tbsp each of:

• Turmeric to Calm Skin Inflammation & Redness.
• Cinnamon for calcium, fibre, iron and manganese on your skin.  Within its bark are healing essential oils.
• Raw Cacao to fight free radicals.  Cacao contains the highest antioxidants of any food in the World, and will draw gunk out of your pores.
• French Green Clay to heal and detox skin.
• Dead Sea Salt for youth!  Dead Sea salt benefits have shown a 40% reduction in the depth of wrinkling.


WHAT TO DO:

• Combine Ingredients
• Scoop out a palmful and place in a bowl.
• Add Water, Coconut or Aloe Juice/Water.
• Mix together until it is textured but not runny.
• Brush on a damp, bare face with a makeup brush or your fingers.  Avoid eyes as the Cinnamon and Turmeric may be irritating.
• Let dry for 45 minutes. Relax.
• Wash with filtered water.
Enjoy smooth, youthful skin!

Magickal Simplicity

magickalsimplicity

Essential Oils

Essential Oils

ALBA ROSA - artisan soaps and more: Sea Salt Scrub recipe

ALBA ROSA - artisan soaps and more: Sea Salt Scrub recipe: Scrubs made with either salt or sugar are a great way to exfoliate and give your skin a healthy glow.  Sea salt can be healing if not o...

Foot Scrub

Brown Sugar Foot Scrub

Earlier this month I posted a recipe for Peppermint Rosemary Foot Scrub. I've been asked for a foot scrub recipe that works just as well, but which doesn't include salt as an ingredient, so here is a very easy sugar scrub made with only three ingredients.

Brown Sugar Foot Scrub

In a small bowl mix 1 tablespoon each of brown sugar, olive oil and baking soda. You can adjust the amount of oil if you'd prefer a wetter or drier scrub. 

Rub into your feet (or knees or elbows). Rinse well and follow with moisturiser

Rosie Oats Face Mask - a recipe

Rosie Oats Face Mask - a recipe

This is a gentle mask suitable for most skin types.

Oatmeal soothes, hydrates and can reduce redness. The clay helps to draw out impurities and the rosewater acts as a gentle toner.

Rosie Oats Face Mask

To make enough for one mask you'll need:

• 1 tablespoon ground oats
• 1 tablespoon rosewater
• 1 tablespoon kaolin clay*
• 1/2 tablespoon liquid honey
• 2-3 drops rose essential oil (optional)

Mix the ingredients to form a paste - you can use less or more rosewater to get a consistency you like. Massage into your face and neck. Leave for 5 minutes then rinse with warm water.

* Green clay can be used if skin is prone to acne or rose/pink clay for mature skin

Avocado-Carrot Face Mask

Avocado-Carrot Face Mask

Simple to make and rich in anti-oxidants this mask will help improve the texture and tone of your skin.

To make this you will need:

• 1 carrot (cooked and well mashed)
• 1 avocado (mashed)
• 1/2 cup cream 
• 3 tablespoons liquid honey
• 1 beaten egg yolk (optional)

Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and blend until you have a smooth, but not runny, paste. You may need to adjust the amount of cream used to get a good consistency.

Apply to your face and neck. Leave for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse. Follow with your usual toner and moisturiser.

Note: natural yoghurt can be used in place of cream if you prefer

Cucumber Eye Gel - make your own

Cucumber Eye Gel - make your own

I love eye gels and have used them on and off for years. I finally found one I really, really liked but the maker changed the recipe. I decided it was time to have a go at making my own.

So here is my ridiculously simple recipe for cucumber eye gel.

Cucumber Eye Gel

You need: 

110g aloe vera gel

1 medium sized cucumber

Wash, peel and chop the cucumber. Blend until liquid. Stain the liquid through cheesecloth or a very fine sieve. You need to remove all the "bits" so you may need to strain the cucumber liquid a couple of times.

Place the aloe vera gel in a bowl and mix in 2 tablespoons of the cucumber juice. Pour into a small glass with a secure lid. Shake, then chill for at least one hour before using.

Apply under and around your eyes at night. This will keep for approximately three months when stored in the fridge.

Lemon Exfoliating Scrub

Lemon Exfoliating Scrub

Today I'm sharing a recipe for a great lemon-scented exfoliating scrub which you can use in the shower. 

Lemon Exfoliating Scrub

To make this you will need:

• 1 cup sea salt or epsom salt. (if using sea salt a medium grind works best)
• 1/2 cup coconut oil (in cold temperatures you will need to soften this)
• 10 drops of lemon essential oil

Combine the salt and coconut oil in a glass or ceramic bowl using a large spoon or (if the oil is quite soft) you could use a whisk. Add the essential oil a couple of drops at a time mixing thoroughly after each addition. Spoon into a clean lidded glass jar.

To use scoop out and rub into your skin concentrating on knees, elbows and heels. Rinse well and follow with a good moisturiser

Calendula Cleanser recipe

Calendula Cleanser recipe

This simple two ingredient cleanser can be used with any skin type, but is best suited to dry skin.

I've used calendula for it's anti-inflammatory and skin healing properties. Cocoa butter is a great moisturiser, particularly for extremely dry skin, plus it's high in antioxidants.

Calendula Cleanser

In a double boiler combine the following: 

• 175g calendula oil (see below)
• 3 tablespoons cocoa butter

Gently heat until the cocoa butter has melted. Transfer to a non-metallic bowl. Beat until the mixture has cooled and has begun to thicken a little - you want it to be still be pourable. Transfer to a clean pot or jar with a good lid.

To use massage into skin in a circular motion. Remove with a damp cotton pad. Follow with your usual toner and moisturiser.

The cleanser will keep for about 3 months when stored in the refrigerator.

Note: If the mixture thickens too much to be pourable (this can happen in cold temperatures) it can be spooned into the pot or you could soften it a little over a very gentle heat before pouring

Lemon and Vinegar Foot Soak

Lemon and Vinegar Foot Soak

The lemon juice in this recipe works to lighten skin discolouration and odours. The mix of apple cider vinegar and salt softens the skin.

Lemon and Vinegar Foot Soak

To make this you will need:

2-3 litres of warm water

1 cup Apple Cider Vinegar

1/2 cup sea salt

juice of 2 lemons

Pour the water into wide-mouthed bowl (big enough to comfortably fit your feet). Add the vinegar and salt. Stir well. Add the lemon juice and stir again.

Soak your feet for 10-15 minutes. Dry well and follow with a good moisturiser or foot cream.

Discard the soak water. 

Makes enough for one treatment. Use the same day made

Apple Toner

Apple Toner - for oily, blemished skin

The apple in this toner helps to soothe and purify oily skin. Plus it's rich in antibacterial pectin.

Apple Toner

85ml pure apple juice (organic if possible)

3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon honey

Place all ingredients in a non-metallic bowl and whizz with a stick blender until combined. Pour into a clean, dry bottle with a secure lid.

Shake before using. Smooth over your face, keeping away from your eyes. Rinse with warm water. Follow with your usual moisturiser.

This will keep for about 1 month in the fridge.

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MindBodyGreen

Can Oil Pulling Help You Detox?

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Citrus Body Scrub

DIY Organic Citrus Body Scrub Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup pure fine sea salt
• 1 tbsp organic extra virgin coconut oil
• 2 tbsp organic extra virgin olive oil
• 1⁄2 organic lemon
• 1⁄2 organic lime
• 1⁄4 organic orange

DIY Organic Citrus Body Scrub Directions:Start by placing sea salt in a small glass bowl or wide mouth jar. Add coconut oil and olive oil and mix together until smooth. Add a few squeezes of fresh fruit for desired amount and stir. If you don’t have coconut oil around, use all olive oil and you can always swap a couple of drops of organic essential oils in place of the fresh fruit juice for larger batches to keep longer.

Moisturising lotion

Homemade Ultra-Moisturising Lotion (without Coconut Oil)Ingredients

• ½ cup (4oz) shea butter
• 2 TB skin-nourishing oil, such as: jojoba, avocado, apricot, or sweet almond oil. This can even be coconut oil.
• 15 drops drops lavender essential oil
• 10 d
• 5-7 drops carrot seed oil 
• 3-5 drops tea tree essential oil 

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, over medium-low heat, melt the shea butter. Add in the nourishing skin oil. Turn off the heat.
2. Pour into a bowl (I use my Kitchen-Aid bowl). Place in the freezer and allow to cool and return to a solid (not hard) form. This takes about 15-20 minutes. Don't freeze the mixture.
3. Once "solid"-looking remove from the freezer. Add in the essential oils and carrot seed oil. Using the whisk attachment on your mixer, whip the mixture until soft and looks like buttery whip cream. This takes just a minute or two. Don't over-whip. Scoop into a jar and store at room temp. Apply to both body and face as desired.

Make up remover

DIY 2-Ingredient Makeup Remover (Without Coconut Oil)

Serves: ⅓ cup

Ingredients

3 TB witch hazel (where to buy)- I like to use witch hazel with aloe vera, but any witch hazel will work.

2 TB nourishing oil: jojoba, sweet almond, avocado, apricot kernel, olive oil, or fractionated coconut oil (if you want to use coconut oil). I like to use jojoba or olive oil.

Instructions

Pour both ingredients into a small storage container.

To Use: Shake the bottle, then apply the makeup remover to a Q-Tip, cotton ball or facial pad. Wipe desired area (mascara, foundation, etc.) with the Q-Tip or ball/pad.

Easy DIY Natural Deodorant Recipe

Easy DIY Natural Deodorant Recipe

Here’s an easy DIY natural deodorant that really works! I got the recipe about three weeks ago from The Organic Momma who got it from a friend in a forum she’s in. With the rave review she gave it, I decided to give it a try. It looked extremely easy to make and inexpensive with ingredients that most of us already have in our own kitchens. And I’m so glad I did because it has now replaced my other best natural deodorants (Soapwalla Natural Deodorant Cream & Blissoma Natural Deodorant Spray…I used to have to use these together) up to this point and keeps me fresh all day long. It’s been great on my sensitive underarms and doesn’t cause any redness or irritation. I’d love to read your comments if you decide to make this natural deodorant recipe and hear about how it worked for you. Enjoy!

Natural Deodorant Ingredients:
1/4 cup corn starch
1/4 cup baking soda (or use arrowroot powder instead if your skin is sensitive to baking soda)
6 tablespoons organic coconut oil

Natural Deodorant Directions: In a bowl, combine 1/4 cup of all natural or organic corn starch and 1/4 cup of baking soda together. Next, add 6 tablespoons of organic coconut oil to the corn starch and baking soda. Mix all three ingredients together with a spoon until the consistency is smooth without any crumbling. Lastly, spoon out your natural deodorant mix into a jar and apply to underarms with fingertips daily (or an empty deodorant stick if you prefer). The mixture will solidify after a while or you can stick it in the refrigerator to help speed the solidifying process up.

The baking soda deodorizes and the coconut oil is antibacterial which gives it a nice light scent. It goes on clear and can be layered without buildup.

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Oatmeal Face Mask

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Deodorant

The pitfalls of using the wrong deodorant can be perilous. Not just to your health but also to the people that come into close proximity with you when you’ve had a major deodorant fail day. Believe me, it’s not pleasant for anyone when you have one of those days and go to reach for something in a meeting or get ready to give someone a hug only to catch a whiff of some horrid aroma. In that instant you realize it’s your own body odor causing you to turn your nose up in disgust, you quickly put your arms back down tightly by your side. For many, the choice becomes choosing between aluminum  and other toxic laden commercial deodorants or bad body odor. And as much as no one wants the risks of cancer, most will choose aluminum over the embarrassment of smelling like you’ve been stranded on a deserted island for a week because it’s a problem they want a solution for in the here and now. I too have been there so I totally get why you may feel like natural deodorants don’t work. However, I’ve got some really great news that there are some natural deodorants out there that actually do work for those of us that are a bit more on stink-prone side. You no longer have to choose between your health or smelling like a dead carcass. After searching high and low for years and testing dozens of deodorants, here’s our 7 best natural deodorants that have confidently and pleasantly stood the test of time and sweat in varying hot and humid weather conditions with extremely pure formulas. They even have the added bonus that they actually look good when left out on your counter top…boy, have natural deodorants come a long way. No more reapplications either because these natural deodorant leaders last from morning until night.

1. Routine Natural Deodorant Cream, $24 – Hand-made with love in Calgary as well as with human and environmental health as a priority, these natural deodorants are effective and worth every bit of their Canadian price tag. Routine kept us dry under our arms as well as smelling like blackberries (depending on which of the six delicious scents you decide to try) all day long. Routine also makes an unscented deodorant as well as offers two scents for men. Not sure which scent to try first? Sample each Routine Cream for $3.99.

Notes: All of the scents smell lovely and each one mixed extremely well with our body chemistry. Did not cause any irritation applying it directly after underarm shaving. Off-white/cream color.

Made with coconut oil, kaolin clay, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), shea butter, cocoa butter, tea tree oil, vitamin e, marigold infused olive oil, neem oil, flavour or essential (natural and organic) oils.

2. R.L. Linden Close To Me Natural Deodrant Spray, $38 – If you’re more of a deodorant spray kind of gal, R.L. Linden Close To Me might just be the one for you with its beautiful uplifting aromatherapy and floral essence benefits to keep you smelling fresh from morning to night.

Notes: Smells just as amazing as their Thousand Petal Beautifying Hydrating Toner Mist. Did not cause any irritation applying it directly after underarm shaving. Goes on clear.

Made with Witch Hazel; Organic Olive Leaf Extract; Organic Tamanu Oil; A Proprietary Blend of Essential Oils (including Rose Geranium and bergaptene-free Bergamot) and Flower Essences (Including Borage and Dandelion).

3. PiperWai Natural Deodorant, $9.99 – Free of harmful chemicals, parabens, and aluminum compounds, PiperWai Natural Deodorant forms an invisible, absorbent, pH-balanced shield that neutralizes odor and protects your clothes from perspiration.

Notes: Gender neutral fresh scent. Touts itself as being great for sensitive skin. Did not cause any irritation applying it directly after underarm shaving. Charcoal grey color.

Made with Cassava (Tapioca) Starch, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut Oil), Magnesium Hydroxide, Butryospermum parkii (Shea) Butter, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Rosewater, Witch Hazel, Tocopherol Acetate (Vitamin E), Sodium Bicarbonate, Activated Carbon (Charcoal), Proprietary Blend of 11 Essential Oil.

4. In Love With Body Care Soothe Natural Deodorant, $9.50 – Available in Soothe Greece (with orange blossom), Soothe Morocco (with spearmint) and Soothe Unscented, these natural deodorant sticks eliminate odor on contact with a creamy delightful smelling formula.

Notes: Both scents are beautifully blended. Caused irritation applying it directly after underarm shaving. Found it best to shave at night and apply in the morning when shaving was needed to avoid skin irritation under arms. Also, found the formula on the creamier side and although it comes in a stick form, it was easier to apply with fingers. Light yellow/cream color.

Made with precipitated dead sea salts in distilled water, saponified organic coconut oil, candelilla wax, vegetable emulsifying wax, grapeseed oil, organic coconut oil, jojoba oil, witch hazel, carnauba wax, essential oils, sodium borate.

5. Soapwalla Natural Deodorant Cream, $14 – All natural and uniquely powerful, this long-time green beauty cult favorite utilizes superfine vegetable powders and clays, as well as lavender, peppermint and tea tree essential oils to absorb moisture, inhibit bacteria, and ensure a long-lasting and highly effective experience. The frosting-like consistency in Soapwalla Natural Deodorant Cream allows for easy application and rapid absorption, and is ideal for all skin types.

Notes: Wonderful fresh scent. Caused irritation applying it directly after underarm shaving. Caused redness/irritation on our very sensitive underarm skin. Light yellow/cream color.

Made with Simmondsia chinensis (Jojoba) Oil*; Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Oil*; Rosehip Seed Oil*; Butyrospermun parkii (Shea) Butter; Corn Starch*+; Sodium Bicarbonate+; Kaolin Clay; Vegan Kosher Glycerin*+; a custom blend of essential oils, including: Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender)*; Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree)*; Citrus Sinensis (Sweet Orange); Mentha Piperita (Peppermint)*; Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergaptene-free Bergamot)*; Non-GMO Soy lecithin*+; Non-GMO Vitamin E*+. (*: certified organic, +: food-grade)

6. Primal Pit Paste Natural Deodorant Stick, $10.95 – The baking soda in Primal Pit Paste Natural Deodorant Stick kills the bacteria that causes odor and organic arrowroot powder helps you to feel dry while allowing you to still sweat and release toxins. These powders are mixed in a base of moisture rich and anti-microbial organic coconut oil and organic shea butter to soothe skin. Available in 7 scents, including unscented.

Notes: Tested the Thyme & Lemongrass scent. Did not cause irritation applying it directly after shaving. Beige/cream color.

Made with Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Shea Butter, Organic Arrowroot Powder, Organic Beeswax, Aluminum Free Baking Soda, and Essential Oils.

7. Schmidt’s Natural Dedorant Cream, $10 – Made with a signature blend of 100% natural ingredients, Schmidt’s Deodorant Cream effectively neutralizes odor and absorbs wetness without the use of aluminum or other harmful chemicals. Available in 5 scents, including unscented.

Notes: Although partial to Bergamot + Lime, all of the scents are captivating. Caused irritation when applying it directly after underarm shaving. Caused redness/irritation with long-term use on our very sensitive underarm skin. Off-white/cream color.

Made with Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Shea Butter, Organic Arrowroot Powder, Organic Beeswax, Aluminum Free Baking Soda, and Essential Oils.

One more for those of you that are not extremely stink prone, we really like Osmia Organics Deodorant Cream made with 91.9% certified organic ingredients (butyrospermum parkii (shea) butter*, tapioca starch*, simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) oil*, sodium bicarbonate, fuller’s earth clay, callophyllum inophyllum (tamanu) oil*, vegetable glycerin*, and a proprietary blend of certified organic and wild-harvested essential oils. *=certified organic). It’s great for sensitive skin and its compact size also makes it ideal for travel.

And for those of you that would rather make your own deodorant, here’s an Easy DIY Natural Deodorantthat anyone can do.

Remember, our natural body chemistry is different and may or may not mix well with different formulas. Hang in there. There is a natural deodorant out there for you that you can feel good about and works. This list is proof for us.

Which of these natural deodorants have you talking?

Beauty Fact or Fiction: Do your pores really open and close?

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PMS / PMT

Also known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), this is a common gynaecological disorder affecting many women. US research suggests that nearly two out of every five women, aged between 14 and 50, experience some symptoms of PMS while 10 per cent of women have symptoms severe enough to disrupt their everyday lives. Symptoms – which for some women appear one or two weeks before menstruation while for others it’s a day or so before – vary, but can include:

• Anxiety

• Irritability

• Abdominal bloating

• Backache

• Breast swelling and tenderness

• Sweet cravings

• Acne

• Water retention

• Mood swings

and in extreme cases:

• Depression

• Confusion

• Insomnia

It can often turn kind, thoughtful women into raging dragons. Your wife, mother, sister, daughter, boss, work colleague can for 10 days of the month transform like the hulk into a monster who will scream, huff, puff and growl at the slightest look, word or even email!

So what causes this transformation?

• An imbalance between the brain neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine may also cause PMT symptoms.

• Calcium and magnesium imbalance or deficiency, often resulting from stress.

• Hormonal imbalance. These tiny molecules if imbalanced can play a major role in PMS.  Its usually due to an excess of oestrogen to progesterone levels because of an over-worked liver whose job it is to break down oestrogen; an accumulation of xenoestrogens or excessive oestrogen production. Or a combination of all three.

• Low blood sugar.

• Congested or over-worked liver. The liver is the main organ that deactivates hormones, in particular oestrogen. If overworked, the liver cannot carry out this function properly.

• Chronic stress also stimulates the production of adrenal hormones that affect PMT symptoms such as mood swings.

Herbs

Herbs for PMS work by balancing your hormones, in particular the ratio of oestrogen to progesterone. In addition, herbs help to detoxify the liver so that it operates effectively.

Agnus castus (chaste-tree)

• The single most effective herb for alleviating many of the symptoms of PMS, particularly breast tenderness but also anxiety, irritability, bloating and sweet cravings. It works by reducing the release of prolactin (a hormone produced by the pituitary gland in the brain). Elevated levels of prolactin are implicated in PMT.

Skullcap

• Particularly useful when nervous symptoms are prominent such as irritability, mood swings, nervousness and anxiety.

• An excellent antispasmodic, so helps relieve abdominal cramps.

Dandelion

• Phytosterols in dandelion are thought to have a significant diuretic action that help to relieve PMT symptoms such as bloating and water retention.

• A rich source of nutrients, in particular potassium, which is extremely useful because most diuretics deplete potassium stores.

• Liver cleansing.

Essential supplements

In addition to tackling PMS, these supplements may also help to relieve period pain.

• Magnesium, calcium and B6 Prolactin (a hormone that can produce depression and dysphoria – pain and agitation) levels can be elevated due to low levels of magnesium and vitamin B6. These nutrients stimulate the production of dopamine, which, in turn, limits the release of prolactin. Moreover, this combination is excellent for relief of cramps and period pains. Oestrogen regulates calcium absorption/metabolism and it has been shown that oestrogen fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle may cause calcium deficiency.

• Detox capsules  Help to cleanse the body and, in particular, the liver.

• Essential Fatty Acid  Rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which can help in the synthesis of prostaglandins such as the E1 series (important for the regulation of many bodily processes, including hormonal imbalance in the case of PMS). Research shows that a deficiency in fatty acids such as GLA may contribute to symptoms of PMT.

• Sepia /nux vom/ pulsatilla Helpful when suffering symptoms of irritability, sadness, anger and weepiness.

• Chamomilla, dioscorea, colocynthus mag phos Excellent when experiencing pain and cramps during your period.

 

Important foods

• Salmon or other oily fish – Rich in fatty acids.

• Walnuts – Rich in zinc, calcium, magnesium and fatty acids.

• Pumpkin seeds – Rich in calcium, magnesium and zinc

• Sesame seeds – Rich in calcium, magnesium and zinc.

• Chicken – Rich in B6.

• Green leafy vegetables – Rich in nutrients and magnesium.

• Red, orange and yellow fruit and vegetables – Full of vitamins and minerals beneficial for the system.

• Brown Rice – Rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc and B6.

• Barley – Rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc and B6.

Foods to avoid

• Coffee and tea – Cause further anxiety/stressful symptoms in the body.

• Non-organic meat and dairy – Full of growth hormones and pesticides.

• Alcohol and sugar – Cause magnesium to be lost further.

• Salty/processed food – To reduce water retention.