Did you winterize your car this year?  Most of us are pretty diligent about maintaining our vehicles.  After all, we’re protecting our investment.  Did you know that your skin is your largest organ?  It’s your largest protective barrier, kind of like your car.  The only difference is there’s no trade in value for a new outer layer!  Taking care of your skin is the first step in taking care of your whole body.  Chapped, cracked skin is an open invitation for the “nasties” to get in there and wreak havoc, and can result in dermatitis, rashes, even infection.  Dry, neglected skin shows serious signs of aging and NOT just on our faces.

Seasonal tune-ups will ensure your skin is doing its job and keep you healthier.  You want to focus on ridding your skin of toxins and impurities, then replenish and protect your skin with healthful botanicals that protect your outer layer from the harsh elements.   Doing so can even out skin tone, reduce break-outs, plump up fine lines and restore a more youthful, glowing complexion.

You DON’T need to spend a fortune on high end brands to get “the look”.  Most of those brands are filled with toxic, irritating ingredients that do a nice job of a pretty quick-fix, but are harming your complexion over time.  Take a trip to your refrigerator.  Fruits and veggies are high in anti-oxidants; many have anti-inflammatory properties and are rich in Vit A & E.  Here’s a list of ingredients commonly found in your kitchen.  This will be the base for your Facial Detox Cocktail:

• Strawberries
• Cucumber
• Carrots
• Avocado
• Tomato
• Lemon or lime
• Milk (cow or vegan)
• Apples
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Parsley
• Honey

Rather than toss out “spent” fruits and veggies, toss them in the blender & puree yourself a facial cocktail.  Blend up a handful of any combination of fruits & veggies listed above.  Get creative.  The more acidic the combination, the deeper cleansing, but be careful if you have sensitive skin.  Cucumbers are great for redness & puffiness.  Honey is a natural humectant and also kills bacteria and is extremely gentle.  I recommend you purchase Rice Bran Powder from a natural foods grocer.  It’s very inexpensive.  Add the powder by the scoopful to the puree until a thick paste is achieved, store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week.   This will first serve as your 15 Minute Facial Detox Cocktail, then use as a daily cleanser every morning and night.  Add some Raw Cane Sugar and now you have a body treatment to use in the shower!  Avoid using ANY products with mineral oil and moisturize with plant based oils, like Rosehip Seed oil, Evening Primrose Oil, Borage Oil or Apricot.  Your skin will LOVE you and you’ll love your skin!

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