Switching from regular skincare products to natural ones can be challenging, especially for women. The allure of products promising age-defying or acne-preventing effects can be hard to resist, though it’s easy to say no to some of their questionable ingredients.
To help make the transition to natural skincare smoother, I’ve gathered some favorite recipes over the years. Whether you prefer DIY solutions or ready-made products, there’s a routine to suit your skin type, be it oily, normal, dry, or combination. While different ingredients work better for different skin types, there’s some overlap too.
The great news is that a few simple ingredients can create various customized products. If DIY isn’t your thing, there are natural skincare brands that offer effective solutions, although they might come at a higher price.
People with “normal” skin typically enjoy flexibility, having few imperfections and not overly visible pores, making it a sought-after skin type. In the past, my skin was oilier, but with DIY natural skincare, it has become more balanced. Combination skin features normal areas with occasional dry or oily patches needing special care. Natural skincare, along with a healthy lifestyle, can nourish and improve combination skin without needing overly greasy or drying ingredients.
Here’s a collection of recipes that suit normal or combination skin, though they’re not an exhaustive list. You can customize these recipes with different carrier oils or use them as is. Most people with normal or combination skin do well with a variety of moisturizing options, often not needing much extra care, but here are some suggestions if you do.
Switching to gentle, natural skincare can reduce excess oil production. A healthy diet also soothes skin inflammation, helping to prevent acne. In the meantime, try these natural ingredients that help manage oil and prevent breakouts.
For oily or acne-prone skin, choosing the right ingredients for DIY recipes is key. Light, fast-absorbing carrier oils like these are great, and you can dilute them with grapeseed or sweet almond oil for cost-effectiveness.
When dealing with oily skin, it’s important not to strip all the oils away. Exfoliating with a simple sugar scrub, salt scrub, or cleansing grains helps renew skin cells without overdoing it. Lightweight products that don’t clog pores are ideal. With oil cleansing, you might skip a moisturizer, but typical face wash routines can end with a cream suited for oily skin.
Teenagers often face acne and oily skin due to hormones, which stabilize later in life and decline after menopause. Meanwhile, dry skin usually has tiny pores but can show redness, flaking, and fine lines. Moisturizing with collagen and vitamin C can be very beneficial.
Natural skincare is often immediately beneficial for dry or aging skin. Natural oils can help balance oil production and alleviate dryness. While typically not advised, gentle exfoliation can refresh dry skin. Options include homemade lotion bars, whipped body butter, or plain organic shea butter.
While there are numerous anti-aging products, the best approach is often internal. Expensive collagen creams are largely ineffective as the collagen molecules are too large to penetrate the skin. Instead, focus on natural ways to boost collagen.
Regular facial massages can improve circulation, reduce puffiness, and enhance skin collagen. I recommend specific techniques for all skin types.
Coconut oil, a staple in my kitchen, has numerous uses. Though popular, it might not suit everyone, potentially causing dryness or clogged pores for some, while others find it amazing. Many DIY recipes use it, but alternatives exist if coconut oil isn’t suitable for your skin.
Diet is crucial for skin health; what you consume matters as much as what you apply topically. After changing my diet and supplements, my skin has greatly improved, with no breakouts and healed scars. Some supplements have been particularly beneficial.
If you prefer pre-made skincare products, here are some brands I trust. They use ingredients I’m comfortable with and their products feel great on the skin. You can find scrubs, serums, face wash, and more tailored for different skin types.
This article was reviewed by Madiha Saeed, MD, a board-certified family physician. Remember, this information isn’t personal medical advice. Always consult your doctor for health concerns.
How do you care for your skin? What natural solutions have worked best for you? Share your experience!
