How to Treat Dry, Winter Skin Naturally

Winter can be a fun, adventurous time of year for those snow bunnies who are exhilarated by extreme temps and conditions. Yet, even "hibernators" (like myself!) have to take extra care with our skin due to things like harsh winds and indoor heating. Here is one of my ultimate "food for the skin" recipes, sure to satisfy and nourish even the driest skin!

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 2 oz. wheat germ oil
• 4 oz. almond oil
• 1 oz avocado oil
• 1 oz shea butter
• 12 drops of one of the following essences: neroli, rose or lavender

1. Melt your shea butter over a low heat. I prefer to use a glass or ceramic pot in order to avoid metals and residual oils from foods.

2. Mix your shea butter, oils and essence in a glass bottle and shake gently until mixed. Lavish freshly soaked and scrubbed heels and elbows with this oil. It makes a wonderful massage oil when warmed. Used daily, you will find that your winter skin is not only moisturized and soft, but you will soon not have to use this oil every day. That's right, it HEALS dry skin! Even after showers and baths, your skin will be nourished and pampered. I even like to rub a little into my hair and split ends for a hot oil treatment.

3. A word or two on storage: Because shea butter contains fatty solids, you want to keep your oil in a cool, dry place and if you will have one batch longer than 2 weeks, pop it into the refrigerator. (Heat before use! lol) Wheat germ oil is a natural preservative, but you don't want to mess around. I also only use glass bottles because, over time, oil interacts with the petroleum-based plastics.
   Bottom line, don't get hung up on the details. This oil is a wonder and will do great things for your skin and hair.

Tips & Warnings

• If you find that the essences you chose are too strong for your comfort, simply add a 1/2 ounce or more of almond oil.
• The essences I suggested are just my favorites, try your own. Better still, check out web sites or books about aromatherapy.

Resources

• Stretch Mark Relief!
• How to heal acne blemishes!
• How to have beautiful skin, naturally!
• Quick and easy Soft Skin by Alisiane

[Handmadedreams]

on 1/2/2009 My skin is so dry in the winter. Thank you for this info.

[2besure]

on 1/1/2009 Great tips for dry skin.

[Kimi]

on 12/29/2008 This recipe is one that I am going to try immediately, thanks so much for this!***** I love that it is completely herbal and natural products, and the tips for keeping it pure.

[PurpleAnkh]

on 12/13/2008 I get so dry and chalky in the winter it is a wonder I dont saw through my clothes! I am going to try these tips. Thanks!

[angelanyc]

on 12/12/2008 Great tip!