Is it safe to use DIY Skincare recipes?
In recent years, there has been a mass popularity in the do it yourself (DIY) skincare trend. DIY recipes featuring yoghurt and honey face masks, coffee grounds and coconut oil scrubs are promising that you can have cheap and natural ways to get your face glowing.
Are these homemade concoctions as safe as they seem, though? It’s time to explore the benefits, risks and tips for using DIY skincare recipes responsibly along with what healthy eating and natural remedies can do for radiant skin.
The Appeal of DIY Skincare Recipes
The DIY skincare allure is in its simplicity, cost effectiveness, and with the promise of using natural ingredients with no harsh chemicals. So many people are happy that they get to know exactly what is going into their skincare products. Additionally, the act of making something with your hands is also therapeutic and a form of self care, along with a little bit of creativity.
Honey, aloe vera, turmeric, oatmeal and avocado are popular DIY ingredients packed with beneficial properties. For instance:
- Honey is an antimicrobial and moisturising agent.
- Aloe vera is known for being soothing and healing.
- A compound found in turmeric, called curcumin, is anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.
- Oatmeal is a gentle exfoliant and is great for sensitive skin.
- Healthy fats and vitamins to nourish the skin can be found in avocado.
The Risks of DIY Skincare
The appeal of the DIY skincare aspect is natural, but it’s important to realise that there are risks. Not all natural ingredients are safe for all skin types and misapplication or improper preparation can cause problems.
- Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions can occur even with natural ingredients. For instance, lemon can give the skin a phototoxic reaction if exposed to sunlight.
- Unstable Formulations
Unlike commercial skincare products, DIY recipes don’t have preservatives. As such, they are prone to microbial contamination that can lead to skin infection.
- pH Imbalance
The pH of the skin is about 4.5 – 5.5, which is natural and it works to support the skin barrier function. In other words, ingredients such as baking soda or vinegar upset this balance and can cause the skin to dry out or become irritated.
- Inconsistent Results
DIY recipes are rarely formulated with the precise formulations that guarantee effectiveness. Some things work for one person and not at all for the next person and using too much of something can hurt more than it helps.
Tips for Safe DIY Skincare
If you enjoy experimenting with DIY skincare, follow these tips to minimize risks and maximize benefits:
- Patch Test First
Before using on your face, always test on a small patch of skin on the inside of your arm or behind your ear.
- Use Fresh Ingredients
All ingredients should be fresh and clean. Do not use expired food or of questionable storage.
- Avoid Harmful Ingredients
Recipe irritants to avoid include lemon juice, undiluted essential oils, and baking soda.
- Keep It Simple
Stick to one or two ingredients at a time so you can reduce the chance of adverse reactions and pinpoint what does and doesn’t work for your skin.
- Store Properly
If you’re making any product that you’re going to store, use sterilised containers and keep the containers in a dry and cool place. Throw away any product that has an unusual smell, colour or texture.
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The Role of Healthy Eating in Skincare
Topical applications are important, but so are the things you put inside your body. A balanced diet with vitamins, minerals & antioxidants will help your complexion tremendously. Here are some key nutrients for healthy skin:
- Vitamin C
Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, bell peppers, and strawberries, which increases collagen production, as well as fighting free radicals.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega 3s, found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts keep your skin hydrated and reduce inflammation.
- Vitamin E
Vitamin E is found in nuts, seeds, and spinach, and protects your skin from oxidative stress.
- Zinc
Zinc is found in pumpkin seeds, chickpeas and beef, and aids in skin repair and reduces acne.
Staying hydrated is just as important. Good hydration maintains your skin’s elasticity and flushes out toxins.
Embracing Natural Remedies for Skin Health
In addition to DIY skincare, natural remedies can help your skin in holistic ways. Here are some ideas:
- Herbal Teas
Antioxidant rich teas such as green tea, chamomile and rooibos can help to calm your body and reduce inflammation when consumed or applied topically.
- Aloe Vera Gel
Take fresh aloe vera gel from the plant, and use it as a moisturiser or to heal irritated skin.
- Essential Oils
Essential oils such as tea tree oil to treat acne or lavender oil to soothe can be added when diluted properly and added to your skincare routine.
- Epsom Salt Baths
Soaking in an Epsom salt bath can detoxify your skin and help you relax to look and feel healthy, and glowing.
When to Seek Professional Advice
DIY skincare can be great fun and effective for minor issues, but don’t rely on it as a substitute for professional care. If you have an ongoing skin problem, such as acne, eczema or rosacea, come to a wellness clinic such as ours. We can offer tailor advice and treatments to meet your needs.
Conclusion
If approached carefully and with care, DIY skincare recipes can be a great addition to your self care routine. With safe ingredients, testing for allergies, and good hygiene, you can enjoy the benefits of natural homemade products without affecting your skin’s health. But there is something to remember, true beauty starts from within. Along with your skincare efforts, a balanced diet, adequate hydration and natural remedies will contribute to a healthy radiant complexion that highlights your balanced well being.
It’s really about finding the middle ground between natural remedies, DIY concoctions and holistic healthcare to get healthy, glowing skin.
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To learn more about Health and Wellbeing, check out our other related blogs:
What should I do if I have sensitive skin?
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Skincare Tips For Glowing Skin
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