These 5 alternatives are affordable, effective and 100% natural!
1. Dry Skin Brushing
I rank this as number one when it comes to maintaining soft skin. It is simple, cheap, and effective. I began dry skin brushing initially to boost my lymphatic system and circulation. I was shocked by the skin softening effect. Never has my skin been softer. For more on the overall health benefits, as well as brushing methods, see my article, The Benefits of Dry Skin Brushing.
2. Butters
Butters are plant based fatty oils. Generally found in solid form, these emollients include mango butter, cocoa butter, avocado butter and shea butter. When purchased from a reliable supplier you can be assured that these are naturally derived with no additives. Butters offer add protection since they are not as easily absorbed as semi-fatty oils. Mountain Rose Herbs offers an excellent selection of butters.
3. Oils
Popular skin softening oils include olive oil, coconut oil, sesame oil, castor oil, sunflower oil, apricot kernel oil, as well as avocado oil. Look for organic, so as to ensure no chemicals are used during the extraction process. Wondering about the difference between cold-pressed, expeller pressed and other oil terminology? Mountain Rose Herbs offers an excellent explanation. Semi-fatty oils are more easily absorbed than butters. The amount of residue will vary depending on your skin type. Safflower oil is the driest of the oils and absorbed most rapidly.
4. Waxes
Beeswax and jojoba fall under this category. Jojoba is generally purchased as an oil, but is technically a wax. It contains myristic acid which is similar in composition to human skin. Jojoba traps water inside the skin without clogging pores which makes it an excellent moisturizer for those with acne or inflamed skin conditions. Beeswax is not absorbed by the skin but creates a nice layer of protection. It must be heated and therefore is often used in combination with oils and butters.
5. A Combination of Oils and Butters
This is a great option because it allows you to tailor the recipe to suit your skin type. If using coconut oil, the addition of butter stabilizes the consistency of the oil rendering it consistent in warmer temperatures. One of my favorite blends combines coconut oil, jojoba oil, plum kernel oil and shea butter. View the recipe here.
Finding the right natural moisturizer may take some trial and error - but the efforts are well worth it. Your skin and your immune system will thank you!
This post shared at Wellness Wednesdays.
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