Natural Oils for Healing Dry Skin

Posted on February 4th, 2010 in Blog, Featured by admin

Dry skin can result from a disorderly balance of oil and moisture important for healthy, attractive skin.  The moisture present inside the skin cells is not in balance with the natural oils the body produces, which in a healthy balance prevents excessive evaporation of moisture from the skin’s top layers.  The result tends to be dull, scaly and flaky skin. Chapping and cracking skin are signs of extreme dry, dehydrated skin. 
 
During the winter season, the cold, crisp air can aggravate dry skin conditions.  Nature has supplied us with all the necessary tools to sustain skin through the harsh winter months.  Many of the creams and lotions we buy from our local stores contain chemicals that usually aggravate dry skin conditions rather than addressing the source of the problem.   
 
As an experienced Herbalist, I have found oils such as Cocoa Butter, Shea Butter, Wheatgerm Oil, Castor Oil, Coconut Oil, Lavender, and Palmorosa to be very beneficial formula for skin. 
 
Cocoa Butter, extracted from the cocoa bean, is often recommended for skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis, leaving skin soft and supple.  Cocoa Butter is considered the ultimate moisturizer that creates a shield for sensitive skin from the environment and works excellently in helping skin to retain moisture.
 
Shea Butter, originating from the Karite Nut tree found in Central Africa, has been used for centuries by African Woman.  The Karite Nut Tree has often times been referred to as, the “Tree of Life,” providing numerous benefits to those who use it.  Shea Butter absorbs into the skin easily without clogging pores or leaving a greasy residue.  Shea Butter is a naturally rich butter with a good source of vitamins A and E, needed for healthy skin, evens skin tone, penetrates deep into the skin restoring elasticity and moisture.
 
Wheat Germ Oil,  has one of the richest sources of vitamin E know for its antioxidant properties, improves circulation of the blood that helps to repair skin cells, promoting healthy skin.  It has been used for dermatitis because of its exceptional nourishing properties. 
 
Castor Oil, an antioxidant high in fatty acids is extracted from the castor seed (Ricinus Communis). It works well for dry skin conditions as it helps to sooth and smooth rough, dry skin.  Castor oil is a very beneficial fruit that keeps skin fresh and youthful.
 
Coconut Oil, comes from the fruit of a tropical palm tree that contains natural antioxidants, Vitamin E, and essential fatty acids. It is a natural oil that beautifies by helping to strengthen connective tissues keeping the skin soft, smooth, and supple. 
 
Lavender, is also very beneficial for skin as it encourages the growth of new skin cells and has a great healing effect on burns, dry skin, psoriasis, eczema, and prevents scarring.
 
Palmorosa, when used in skincare, stimulates cellular regeneration and moisturizes the skin.  The balancing properties help skin to remain supple and is a valuable ingredient in fighting dry skin.
 
Herbal Songstress’ Butterlicious (Body Balm) is a natural product containing the ingredients listed here. Many of my clients have enjoyed and report that it soothes, moisturizes, and repairs their dry, damaged skin.  With prolonged use, skin becomes radiant and maintains that characteristic due to the protective oils found in the recommended formula below.
 
Feel free to try the recipe at home to create your own Butterlicious Body Balm. You can of course always order it directly from HerbalSongstress.com or by phone at 313-522-6200.
 
Butterlicious (Body Balm)
 
3 oz. cocoa butter
2 oz. coconut oil
2 oz. shea butter                                                                                                                                                                                                            1/2 oz. wheatgerm oil
1/2 oz. castor oil
5 drops lavender oil
5 drops palmorosa oil
 
Make at home directions:
 
1. Begin by heating the cocoa butter, coconut oil and shea butter in a stainless steel or glass pan. Keep the temperature low until the oils are melted. 
2. Add the wheatgerm oil, castor oil, lavender and palmorosa.  Stir until the ingredients are well combined. 
3. Pour in a labeled jar, let cool and your Butterlicious (Body Balm) will be ready to use.
 
For more information about maintaining  healthy skin, please call 313-522-6200 for a free 10 minute consultation.