Archive for the ‘Skin Care Treatments’ Category

Large Pores Treatment and Remedies for Reducing Large pores

Friday, October 22nd, 2010

The natural oils produced by the sebaceous glands of the body reach the surface of the skin through the pores. The pores appear large when they get clogged with oil or dirt. The pores could also expand with advancing age as the skin begins to lose its elasticity. There is also a hereditary association to large pores.

Tips to Reduce Large Pores

It is not possible to reduce large pores permanently. However it is possible to shrink large pores through proper facial skin care. An effective treatment for large pores is proper cleansing of the face. When the pores get clogged with sebum or oil, they can attract bacteria and infection and inflammation could also occur. The face must be washed regularly with a gentle cleanser suitable for the type of skin. The skin must not be rubbed too much as it could cause enlargement of the pores. After cleansing the face, the skin must be moisturized. Exfoliation is another important step in skin care. It helps to get rid of dead skin cells and dirt which block the pores. Exfoliation should be done every week. It also improves the appearance of the skin and reduces the risk of blemishes such as blackheads and pimples. Use natural or herbal exfoliation scrubs for best results. Facial masks are also beneficial in shrinking enlarged pores. A clay mask may be used on the face to tighten the pores and remove excess oil.

Home Remedies for Large Pores Treatment

Large pores treatment may also be done through natural remedies.

  • Tomato juice is a wonderful natural remedy and helps in treatment for enlarged pores. Apply tomato juice directly to the face and allow it to remain for about twenty minutes.
  • Sandalwood powder may also be added to tomato juice to intensify the treatment for large pores.
  • Lemon juice is an effective natural astringent and lemon juice may be applied to the large pores to shrink them.
  • One can also use a natural facial mask made with lemon juice and an egg white. This may be applied to the skin and allowed to dry before washing it off with cool water.
  • Mashed papaya is also effective in tightening the pores and thus helps in treatment for large pores.
  • Another excellent treatment for large pores is honey. Honey helps to tone the skin and also removes oiliness. It can be applied directly to the skin or added to facial masks.
  • A face pack made with gram flour, oatmeal, rose water, lemon juice and curd works as a good skin toner.
  • A simple way to tighten the pores is to rub an ice cube over the affected areas.

Oily Skin Treatment - How To Care for Oily Skin

Friday, October 22nd, 2010

Oily Skin

Oily skin is prone to many skin blemishes such as whiteheads, blackheads and pimples. It also appears greasy and is susceptible to enlarged pores. Oily skin occurs due to overproduction of oil or sebum by the sebaceous glands of the body. This overproduction of sebum could occur on account of various factors such as improper diet and hormonal fluctuations. Hormonal fluctuations commonly occur during puberty and in times of stress. These imbalances can stimulate the sebaceous glands into producing excess sebum. Other causes of oily skin include intake of birth control pills, humid and hot climate and use of harsh cosmetics.

Oily skin treatment would require proper care and attention. Regular cleansing is necessary to get rid of excess oil and to prevent dirt and bacteria from adhering to the skin. Lukewarm water should be used to clean the skin. It is also important to use a facial cleanser that is especially meant for oily skin. When seeking oily skin treatment avoid cleansers and other skin care products that are high in chemical content as these can harm the skin. Instead of using commercial facial cleansers, one could also use milk to cleanse the skin as it prevents drying. Harsh products can dry out the skin and cause the oil glands to produce an increased amount of sebum to compensate for it. For skin that is prone to acne and blackheads, medicated soaps may be used to treat bacterial infection. Oily skin treatment also includes regular exfoliation in order to get rid of dirt and dead skin cells. Exfoliation also unclogs the pores and prevents skin blemishes and this is an effective oily skin treatment

Home Treatment for Oily Skin

Home treatment for oily skin includes some natural remedies which remove excess oil and improve health and appearance of the skin.

  • Sandalwood powder is a well known remedy for oily skin and skin blemishes. Add a few drops of rose water to sandalwood powder to make a paste and then apply to the skin.
  • One of the most effective home remedies for oily skin is fuller’s earth. Make a paste with fuller’s earth and water and apply to the facial area. Once it dries, wash with lukewarm water. This helps to reduce oiliness and also prevents spots and wrinkles.
  • Lime juice works as an astringent and helps to reduce oiliness as well as shrinks enlarged pores.Dilute lime juice with some water and apply to the face.
  • A gentle massage of the skin with wheat germ oil is also beneficial for improving the condition of oily skin.

How to Get Rid of Large Pores on Nose

Friday, October 22nd, 2010

Although larges pores on the nose are a common problem in many people, they can be quite unsightly. Most people have the tendency to develop large pores on the nose. These pores can act as the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. This only because larger pores on noses are more difficult to clean than the smaller ones and bacteria and dirt can easily get into the pore openings. This could also lead to acne and blackheads on the affected area. People who suffer from such problems are interested in knowing how to get rid of large pores on the nose. Therefore, given below are some common natural and home remedies for large pores on the nose as well as other areas.

Home Remedies for Large Pores

•    Tea tree oil: This natural ingredient helps in reducing large pores on the nose and at the same time, it helps in destroying the acne-causing bacteria. Moreover, tea tree oil is believed to have fewer side effects as compared to some of the other remedies. One cup of water should be mixed with 3 drops of tea tree oil. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and spray the liquid on to the nose at least three times in a day.
•    Eggs: Both, egg whites as well as egg yolks are great for the skin. Egg whites are great for enhancing the complexion and toning the skin. The yolk of the eggs, when mixed with a few drops of lemon juice, can help in reducing the size of the pores on noses.
•    Baking soda toner: Baking soda not only kills off acne-causing Candida bacteria, it also works as a great exfoliating toner. In a clean bowl, take some warm water and add 2 tablespoons of baking soda to it. Then, splash the mixture on the face and especially the nose and allow it some time to dry naturally, before washing it off with water. Using an exfoliating toner on the nose regularly will remove dead skin and will shrink the size of the pores. This toner can be used up to twice a day, for clearer skin and smaller pores.
•    Papaya: Apply the pulp of a mashed papaya on your face and wash it off with warm water after a while, to tone up your skin and reduce the size of the pores.
•    Tomato juice: Tomato has been known to contain toning agents, which is why it can help reduce the size of the pores. Dip a ball of cotton into some fresh tomato juice and apply it on the skin. Leave the juice on for at least 20 minutes, before washing it off.

Before using any of the above home remedies for large pores on the nose, it is best to consult a dermatologist, especially if you are suffering from severe acne or any other skin problems.

How to Get Rid of Black Spots on your Face

Friday, September 24th, 2010

The problem of black spots on skin covering the face, chest and hands is quite a common one. Several people apply commercial skincare products that contain harsh chemicals on their skin and their face, in order to get rid of dark circles, freckles, age spots or brown patches. However, these harsh products could actually cause more damage to facial skin, even worsening the appearance of black spots on the face. Therefore, a lot of people now prefer opting for home remedies for black spots on face, as they are believed to be much safer. Moreover, most home remedies cost a lot less than commercial skincare products.

Home Remedies for Black Spots on Face

Some of the most effective home remedies for black spots on face are:

•    Vitamin E oil: Apply Vitamin E oil directly to the affected area and allow it to penetrate the skin. Do not wash the oil off and instead, let it stay on for some time. For the sake of convenience, it is best to apply the oil to the face at bedtime and leave it on all night, washing it off only in the morning.
•    Honey: This is one of the best ingredients for your skin, as it contains natural renewing properties. Apply some honey to the affected area and leave it on for at least twenty minutes or so, before rinsing it off. For an extra lightening effect, you could add some wheat germ to the honey, before applying it to the skin.
•    Milk: Since the facial skin is very delicate and sensitive, it is important to use ingredients that will not cause any irritation. Milk not only has a soothing affect on the skin, it is great for lightening and treating black spots on face. Take a ball of cotton, dip it in some milk and dab it gently on the affected facial areas. You could also use butter milk or sour milk for this purpose.
•    Citrus fruits: Most varieties of citrus fruits, especially lemons, are high in vitamin C, which contains natural bleaching properties. Apply some citrus fruit on to a piece of cotton and massage the darkened spot gently with it.
•    Sunscreen: Excessive exposure to the sun causes the skin to grow darker and also worsens the appearance of black spots on face. Therefore, it is best to avoid going out in the sun, during peak hours. In case you need to step out, you could apply a strong sunscreen, of a good brand, to protect your skin from the harsh rays of the sun.

In case the black spots on face do not lighten in spite of using home remedies, it is best to consult a dermatologist.

How To Treat Combination Skin with Various Skin Treatments

Friday, September 3rd, 2010

Combination skin is a term that refers to facial skin, which can show symptoms of being dry as well as oily. It can be quite a challenge to look after combination skin, as oil-removing products may have an over-drying effect on the dry parts of the skin and moisturizers may cause excessive oily skin, in other parts. Therefore following a balanced skin care regime is the best combination skin treatment. The use of special moisturizers for combination skin is recommended. There are certain cosmetic companies that manufacture products like moisturizers, lotions and toners for combination skin. Such products are designed to remove the excess grease and dirt from the oily areas, to prevent any breakouts and at the same time, they add moisture to the areas that are dry, thereby preventing flaking, peeling or redness. In addition to that, there are a few options that could be used as treatment for combination skin.

Treatment for Combination Skin

It is not difficult to treat combination skin, as long as the right approach is followed and a little extra effort is put in, to look after the needs of your skin. Given below are some steps that can be effective in the treatment for combination skin:

•    Cleansing: Combination skin treatment would first require the use a cream-based cleanser to clean your skin. You coul then apply a face wash of a good brand, especially on the nose and the forehead.
•    Exfoliating: In almost all people, a new layer of skin replaces the old layer every 2 to 4 weeks. Unfortunately, the presence of the old skin can make the new skin look dull. Through an exfoliation process, you can get rid of the old, dead skin to expose the layer of fresh skin beneath. The regular use of an exfoliation cream or a scrub, which has minute gritty particles, can help show a rapid and a remarkable difference in your skin.
•    Toning: Use a toner for combination skin, to get rid of the makeup that you may have applied throughout the day. This process helps to make your skin look fresh and glowing.
•    Moisturizing: This procedure is probably the most important part of combination skin treatment. In order to keep your skin soft and supple, you need to moisturize it. Opt for an oil free moisturizer and apply it twice a day. However, before going to sleep, wash the moisturizer off, so that your skin can breathe. Leave the moisture on for at least 30 minutes, for the skin to absorb some of it. This is an effective combination skin treatment and could be done as and when required.

Moreover, you should always use a strong sunscreen, if you know that you are going to spend some time in the sun. There are some moisturizers that can be used as a sunscreen too. While they may not be very effective, it is alright to use them, if you plan to spend only a short while in the sun. In case you suffer from acne, in addition to combination skin, it is best to consult a dermatologist, for a treatment for combination skin.

Homemade Facial Mask for Oily Skin

Tuesday, August 24th, 2010

Oily skin results from over-activity of the sebaceous or oil glands. Such skin may be susceptible to acne breakouts, open pores and greasiness. However oily skin is also likely to develop wrinkles, fine lines and discoloration much slower than other skin types. The best way to care for such skin is to practice proper hygiene and follow a healthy diet. Using facial cleansers for oily skin also helps to reduce oiliness and keeps the skin looking healthy.

Tips on Caring for Oily Skin

Diet is important in maintaining the health of the skin. Consume a balanced diet and drink plenty of water every day. Restrict the consumption of greasy and fried foods and incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables in the daily diet. This will help to regulate the oil production of the body. A good skin care regimen is also essential in caring for oily skin. The skin should be cleansed at least twice or thrice daily. Remember to remove all traces of make-up before going to bed as make up residue on the face would promote skin breakouts. Also avoid touching the face too much as this can transfer germs and dirt to the skin pores. Oily skin requires skin care products that are specially designed for this type of skin. Avoid harsh soaps that strip away the natural moisture of the skin. Acne can be prevented by keeping the pores clean. Use non-alcohol based astringents to cleanse and tighten the pores. Witch hazel is a beneficial astringent for oily skin. You can also use a good facial scrub for oily skin to exfoliate the skin and clean the skin pores.

Homemade Facial for Oily Skin

A homemade facial for oily skin helps to tone the skin and reduce oiliness. You can prepare a nourishing fruit facial by combining chopped tomatoes, oranges and limes and massaging the mixture into the skin. You can follow this up by steaming your face to remove the blackheads and other impurities. Complete the process by applying a facial mask for oily skin. To make this mix some mashed papaya, pineapples and honey. Then add some sandalwood powder to rosewater and combine with the fruit mixture. Massage into the skin and wash after about fifteen minutes. This facial for oily skin will help to brighten the skin and reduce greasiness. Even oily skin needs moisturizing and it is important to use a good moisturizer meant especially for oily skin. Oil free moisturizing lotions help to absorb excess oil and keep the face looking fresh. Facial for oily skin could be done at home itself if you are lacking on time to visit the parlor. It would be best though to consult a skin care therapist before conducting your facial for oily skin.

How to Stop Peeling From Sunburn

Thursday, July 29th, 2010

Sunburn peeling is a common, but painful experience for anyone who has spent the entire day at the beach, or in the hot sun, without the use of a strong sunscreen. Unfortunately, sunburn peeling not only causes a lot of discomfort, it can also be very unsightly. It is quite difficult to stop sunburn peeling, as it is the body’s natural way of getting rid of the cells that have been damaged. However, there are some steps that could be taken to minimize the effects of skin peeling from sunburn.

Sunburn Peeling Treatment

Given below are some of the most common forms of sunburn peeling treatment that couuld be tried at home:

•    Rub a generous quantity of Aloe Vera lotion on to the burnt skin, as soon as possible. This not only eases the discomfort caused, it also helps in keeping the skin moisturized. Well moisturized skin is less likely to peel.
•    Use an ice pack directly on to the burned area. Ice has a great numbing effect, which soothes the area and reduces the pain. Another advantage of using ice is that it reduces the swelling that results from sunburns. This in turn reduces the stretching of the skin, which makes it peel less.
•    Oatmeal baths have been used for years to reduce sunburn peels, as it is regarded as one of the most effective remedies. Take some unflavored oatmeal and grind it in a blender, to form a fine powder. Place the oatmeal powder in a piece of cloth or preferably an unused, white sock. Fill your bathtub with cool to lukewarm water and drop the oatmeal-filled sock in it. Allow the sock to soak in the bathtub for a few minutes. Then get into the tub and stay there for at least half an hour. Stand up and rinse the residual oatmeal from your body, using cold water. Do not rub your body vigorously with a towel; instead pat your body dry. In case the sunburn has caused the skin on your face to peel, you can make a face mask, using cooked oatmeal, an egg white and a drop of olive oil.
•    There are several lotions that prevent the skin from going through a sunburn peel, even though they do not reduce the pain or any of the discomfort.

Drink a lot of water, to keep your skin well hydrated as dry skin tends to peel more. In case you notice blisters on your skin, it may be best to get in touch with a doctor and to know what painkillers and ointments can be used to deal with sunburn peeling skin.

How to Treat Burnt Skin using Home Remedies

Thursday, July 29th, 2010

If you have ever suffered from a severe case of sunburn, or if you have touched a hot pan or iron, you are probably aware of the intense pain and discomfort even mildly burnt skin can cause. On a medical scale, burns can be rated in three degrees. There are first degree, second degree and third degree burns. Burnt skin treatment methods vary, depending on the severity of the burn, as well as its cause. It is possible to treat first degree burns at home, as they are usually milder. However, in order to treat second and third degree burns, medical assistance is required, as blistering, peeling of the skin and large wounds cannot be treated at home. Therefore, before you try to treat burnt skin, it is important to understand the degree and the severity of the burn.

Home Remedies for Burnt Skin

Given below are some home remedies for burnt skin, of the first degree:

•    Diluted vinegar is one of the best ways to treat burnt skin. Cover the area of the burn with a cloth that has been soaked in diluted vinegar. This is a great way to soothe the pain. In case the pain rises again, the compress needs to be changed for a fresh one.
•    Lavender essential oil is good first aid for burns, as it is an effective antiseptic as well as a painkiller, which promotes rapid healing. It also reduces scarring in the effected area. If lavender is applied to the burn immediately, it will prevent scarring completely. If the burn covers a larger area, lavender oil should be applied to the burn, with a piece of gauze or cloth.
•    The fresh sap found in a piece of a fleshy Aloe Vera leaf should be applied directly in the burnt skin, as it has tissue healing properties.
•    Make a paste of cotton-ash, by burning a piece of a pure white cotton fabric. Mix the ash in some olive oil, to create a thick paste and apply it on the burned skin. Cover the skin with some cling wrap and leave it that way for a while. This should get rid of the pain in a few minutes. In case the pain returns, a fresh poultice may need to be used. This is one of the best ways to treat burnt skin.
•    It is possible to treat sun burnt skin, by applying some cold milk on the area. Alternately, make a paste using oatmeal and purified water and apply it on the burn till it dries, before washing it off.

However, in case you do not see any relief in the pain, or if the burnt skin begins to hurt more than before, please seek professional medical assistance, without any further delay.

How to Get Rid of Oily Skin on Face

Wednesday, June 23rd, 2010

All human skin contains natural oils to keep it moist, but sometimes the oil glands work overtime and the face can get sticky. Too much oil also leads to an outbreak of acne as the pores get clogged. Use a cleanser or face wash that is soap free on your face. Look out for one that is specifically earmarked for oily skin and do not use ones that have a cream base as it can leave a patina of oil on your skin.Keep your face covered with a scarf when outside and especially when travelling.Use a wet tissue to wipe away the dust and dirt from your face and wash your face with the cleanser when you get back home. You can alternate a hot and cold compress to leech out the excess oil.

Homemade Mask for Oily Skin

  • You can use a homemade mask to get rid of oily skin by mixing one egg white with the juice of one lemon. Beat the mixture thoroughly and brush onto the face. Leave the mask on for twenty minutes till it dries and then wash off with lukewarm water. Dab your face dry. Steam your face and remove the blackheads and whiteheads from the open pores.
  • Make a paste out of one teaspoon of gram powder, a teaspoon of lemon juice, a little honey and a spoon of plain, unflavoured yoghurt. When the paste is smooth, apply onto the face and wash off when dry. Crush six almonds and mix with a spoon of honey. Massage the paste into your skin by using a warm washcloth in order to clear up the oil and dead cells. Splash cold water onto your face to clean the residue.
  • Make a paste out of a teaspoon of honey, a spoon of oatmeal and the juice of one lime. When the paste no longer has any lumps in it, spread it evenly across your face and leave on for about twenty minutes. Wash off with cool water and use an ice cube to close off the open pores by gently massaging it onto the face. Dab dry with a clean cloth.

Avoid consuming deep fried food, greasy junk food, alcohol, caffeinated drinks and artificially flavoured beverages. Keep off refined sugar, excess starch and smoking as well as all these substances either increase the oil on your skin or interfere with the body’s ability to control the production of excess oil. Your diet must involve drinking plenty of fruit juices and water. Once your skin is naturally hydrated, it will aid in getting rid of the excess oil.

How to Treat Peeling Skin on Hands

Wednesday, June 23rd, 2010

Peeling skin is a perfectly natural phenomenon and every month the old skin is replaced by a new layer. This occurs due to factors such as exposure to the sun, the friction involved while working with one’s hands, environmental factors and it may also depend on how hydrated the body is. Sunburn is one the most common causes of peeling skin and apart from this a variety of skin infections can cause the loss of skin. If you constantly use strong and harsh soaps or detergents while washing dishes or clothes and so on, the skin may itch, burn and peel off.  The best remedy to battle this is to use mild soaps and wear gloves while doing the dishes or if you are hand washing clothes. If you are used to wearing tight gloves, the skin may peel off due to excessive perspiration. Rashes due to allergies and peeling skin syndrome which is a rare genetic condition are other potential causes. There are a few home remedies to deal with skin peeling on the hands, but if they do not work, you may want to consult a dermatologist and your physician about it. There are several simple ways to treat peeling skin on hands and feet.

Treat Peeling Skin on Hands

If the skin peels off in strips, you can cut the loose ends with a pair of scissors, but take care to not cut too close to base. Soak your hands in a basin of water into which a little oatmeal has been added. If possible take a bath in water that is cool, but if the weather is too cold, you may have a warm water bath as opposed to a hot water bath. Keep your hands moisturized at all times and especially at night before going to bed. Make sure that your sunscreen application extends to your hands as well to ensure that they are protected from the harmful UV rays of the sun. Take care to not pick at and peel the skin on your own as this can aggravate your condition.

Mix a little honey and olive oil and rub the mixture gently into your hands. Wash your hands with a mild soap or simply massage lemon juice into your skin before rinsing your hands with lukewarm water. The moisturizer will get absorbed into the fissures if any and help to prevent the skin from splitting any further. Make a paste of sandalwood and turmeric powder till you have a thick and even paste. Apply this onto the hands and once it dries wash it off with cool water. Drink at least 5-6 liters of water a day to ensure that your skin is hydrated.