Category: Skin Care

Skin Care

Natural Remedies for Crepey Skin

Most of us LOVE to get out in the sun to take a walk on the beach, a swim in the pool, or weeding and planting in our garden.  The outdoor activities that we enjoy can be endless.  But, as we age, one of the biggest side affects of being awesomely drenched in the sun is crepey skin.  Are there ways to alleviate this effect?  Yes!  Fortunately, there are some Natural Remedies for Crepey Skin. Let’s check some of them out.

 

Honey

Honey is chalked full of anti-aging antioxidents and biochemicals that combat the oxidative stress which produces crepey skin.  Honey’s properties hydrate and replenish the depleted skin.  Giving it a much more youthful appearance.  Mix the following:  Half a teaspoon honey, half a teaspoon turmeric and half a teaspoon sour cream.  Rub this mixture onto the top of your hands or wherever your crepey skin is prevalent.  Let dry.  Rinse with warm water.   Pat dry.  Apply the following: one teaspoon of Jojoba carrier oil mixed with 3 drops of Apple Seed Essential Oil. Massage thoroughly into the skin.

Apple Seed Oil, Why?

“Apple seed oil has compounds that enhance collagen synthesis in the skin health. It activates the collagen as well as its production that makes the skin firm and youthful.” It blocks UV damage, increases cell turnover, hydrates the skin, and just gives the skin an overall more youthful appearance. 

Milk Bath

Yes, of course everyone talks about Cleopatra and her milk baths.  But, seriously, she was on to something!  Milk is actually filled with lactic acid.  Lactic acid sloughs off dead skin cells, smooths the skin by diminishing fine lines, and leaves the skin feeling silky but not oily.  You can use many different kinds of milk including powdered milk but, I personally like buttermilk since it has an abundance of lactic acid.  Here’s a recipe I like to use:  2 cups buttermilk, 1/2 cup baking soda, 1 teaspoon jojoba oil, 8 drops of rose essential oil.

First…light some candles for some ambience.  Fill your tub halfway with warm-hot water, add the milk bath recipe and swish around to mix.  Add a little more warm-hot water.  Soak and relax for 20 to 30 minutes.   It really is divine! ❤️.  AND, your crepey skin will thank you! 🤗

There are other options to help alleviate the effects of crepey skin, but these three were my top go-to Natural Remedy options.  They seem to be very effective and nourishing for the skin as well as the soul.  What’s not to love about that? 😍

I hope you’ve enjoyed this weeks blog.  There’s lots more to come on this journey to Subtract the Years! 😃

Lots of love, 🥰

Sarah

Face Yoga to Tighten the Skin!

Are you losing weight, eating healthy foods, and STILL seeing your face age quicker than you’d like?  Your fat cells are shrinking, but your skin isn’t keeping up?  I hear ya!  After a little research, I’ve seen and read some Very promising results with face yoga.  It turns out that practicing Face Yoga to Tighten the Skin, in addition to losing weight, eating healthy foods, and exercise works wonders to stimulate healthy and glowing skin.

Sagging Skin Reversed!

It takes a little patience, motivation and consistency BUT, it pays off!  I exercise the rest of my body for toned muscles, so why not my face?  Over the years I’ve gradually had sneak up on me saggy jowls, saggy neck, and droopy eye lids…why can’t I exercise THESE muscles so that they look great, too?  It turns out that you CAN!

How Does It Work?

By massaging light essential oils and serums in the skin and exercising the muscles of the head, face and neck helps to relax, smooth, and firm them.  This results in less wrinkles or lines.  It promotes firmer, smoother skin and helps keep me calm throughout the day.  I’ve visited numerous websites for information on the best techniques and I’ve settled on Danielle Collins, the Face Yoga Expert.  She’s so knowledgeable, thorough, and calming.  Just 20 minutes a day seems to do the trick. I personally am going for 20 minutes a day 4 days a week with the full regimen of 40 minutes a day for 2 days a week.  I want fast results!

Is Face Yoga Scientifically Proven to Work?

Yes!  Face Yoga has been proven to make you look 3 years younger in 20 weeks in a study by dermatologists at Northwestern University. The lead author Dr. Murad Alam  said, “Now there is some evidence that facial exercises may improve facial appearance and reduce some visible signs of aging. The exercises enlarge and strengthen the facial muscles, so the face becomes firmer and more toned and shaped like a younger face.”

The study was published Jan. 3 in the journal JAMA Dermatology. Click on the link above to read the full report!  Very encouraging!

I will DEFINITELY be adding another post about Face Yoga with my own results in the next few months.  I’m excited and am looking forward to this continued journey!

 

To live my life now to the fullest extent possible is my passion!  To imagine a brighter and better future is my goal!  Let’s go together!

 

 

 

Best Oils for the Eye Area

Best Oils for the Eye Area

The eyes are the focal point of the body.  They are often referred to as “the windows to the soul”!  When we are communicating with other people, that’s where our focus is, the eyes. So, eye care is extremely important.  The skin around the eyes is so delicate and sensitive.  It requires special attention.  I’ve done considerable research in finding the Best Oils for the Eye Area.  There IS hope for revitalizing this “Oh So Important Focal Area”!

Best Oils for the Eye Area – Carrier Oils

Apricot Kernel Oil is a perfect carrier oil for the eye area. The skin around the eyes is very thin and delicate so you want an oil that is lightweight, gentle, and non irritating.  It also needs to be easily absorbable.   Apricot Kernel Oil fits all those criterias!  It is high in fatty acids which soften the skin and lessens the wrinkles and helps other ingredients penetrate the skin keeping it supple and youthful.  It is high in the nutrients Vitamin E and Vitamin A.

Argan Oil is another perfect carrier oil for the eye area.  It is well known to improve mature skin elasticity and helps tighten up loose or saggy skin areas….which, of course, would be the eye area!  It’s great to help seal in moisture so the thin tissue around the eyes stays plumped out.  “Argan oil is rich in oleic acid, which can improve skin permeability and assist with other ingredients penetrating the skin barrier,” says Susie Wang, expert skincare chemist and co-founder of 100 Percent Pure.

 Essential Oils and Other Oils

It is always important to add the finishing touches to the carrier oils.  The fragile and delicate skin around the eyes needs the perfect combination of carrier oils combined with the subtle hints of Rosehip, Vitamin E, and Lavender oils. These “subtle hints” turns this serum into an ideal blend for the eye area.  Their benefits are listed below.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rosehip Seed Oil has linoleic acid and other fatty acids which are great for keeping the skin hydrated.  Since it is high in Vitamin C it helps repair UV damage and reduce wrinkles.  The carotenoids in Rosehip Seed Oil reduce hyper-pigmentation and brighten the skin.

Vitamin E Oil is high in antioxidants and promotes blood circulation.  It helps in firming delicate skin which helps prevent fine lines and even eliminate them.  Vitamin E Oil is very effective against hyperpigmentation when paired with Vitamin C.

Lavender Essential Oil is also high in antioxidants and other phytochemicals which helps fight against aging.  It’s known for it’s soothing and calming effects and is gentle even on sensitive skin which makes it great for the eye area.  It’s one of the most well rounded essential oils.

A Little Goes a Long Way!

When applying an eye serum, it is important to not put any oils on the actual eye lids.  Any oil can be harmful to the actual eye.  Just dab on a little directly under the eye and on the sides.

Eye Area Serum Recipe

  • 2 tsps Apricot Kernel Oil
  • 2 tsps. Argon Oil
  • 2 Vitamin E Capsules or 4 drops Vitamin E Oil
  • 3 drops Lavender Essential Oil
  • 3 drops Rosehip Oil

Directions

  •  Pour Carrier oils (Apricot Kernel Oil and Argon Oil) into 1 oz. dropper bottle using a mini funnel.
  • Add the Vitamin E drops, Lavender Essential Oil drops, and the Rosehip Oil drops.
  • Use the label to help identify your new Eye Serum
  • Store in a cool dry place.
  • After washing skin apply 2 to 3 drops before bedtime.  Wait 20 minutes to absorb into skin before going to bed.
  • Use every evening

Watch the Video Below! Step by Step Directions on How to Make Your Own Evening Routine Eye Area Serum Recipe.

It’s amazing the benefits of all the different oils (Carrier Oils, Essential oils, and Seed Oils)  Each oil has a star quality or an ability that it excels in.  It’s been fun putting each oil  where it will do it’s utmost to help my skin rejuvenate to it’s greatest potential!  I’m loving all the research and knowledge I’ve been acquiring.

Combining healthy eating habits along with adding a revitalizing skin care regimen using organic oils is sure to help me along with my Subtract the Years journey!

Next post for skin care coming soon!  My Cleansing routine!

Life is a journey to enjoy and not just live…

Always take the time to smell the roses along the way!

 

Best Essential Oils for the Face

Okay, so once the face is clean and exfoliated you need to seal in the moisture and soften those wrinkles!  If you are anything like me, MY face feels cracked, wrinkled and saggy! Is there any help?  YES! That’s where the essential oils come in to play.  So, what are the BEST essential oils for the Face?  Fortunately, there are some DEFINITE heavy hitters on the essential oil list to help eliminate those issues!  (Happy face!)  My favorites are as follows:

  1. Frankincense Oil – This essential oil has amazing properties that help tighten the skin. It’s known to be an effective topical agent to soften facial lines and relax the skin.  It also has properties that lighten or even out skin tone!  It’s an AMAZING  essential oil!
  2. Rosehip Seed Oil –  Has properties that are known to regenerate cells and increase collagen production. It helps restore skin’s elasticity, fade age spots, and reduce broken capillaries.
  3. Sweet Almond Oil –  It has emollient properties which help smooth out skin tone.  The VItamin E properties helps reverse sun damage and heal scars.
  4. Geranium Essential Oil – Geranium is one of the best essential oils for the skin because it helps even out the distribution of melanin.  It helps the skin with that overall even tone of youth!
  5. Lavender Essential Oil – Probably one of the best known essential oils for the skin!  It is calming and helps control inflammation and redness.  It is a GREAT hydrator!
  6. Sea Buckthorn Oil – It is not one of the well-known oils, but it should be!  It contains over 190 nutrients and phytonutrients!   It is an incredible antioxidant which destroys free radicals by reversing and preventing the signs of aging.

Now that we have the Best Essential Oils for the Face….What do we do with them?

We make a DIY Facial Oil Recipe!  This recipe is going to be my favorite to use in my morning routine.  Gotta start my day out right! 😃

Morning Routine Facial Serum Recipe

I’m going to mix the first three carrier oils together to get a powerhouse blend! After that I will add the smaller amounts of ESSENTIAL oils to the mix.  EVERY ingredient is ESSENTIAL!  Recipe is as follows:

Recipe

  • 1 Tbsp. Rosehip Seed Oil
  • 2 tsp. Sweet Almond Oil
  • 1 teaspoon Sea Buckthorn Oil
  • 5 drops Lavender Essential Oil
  • 4 drops Frankincense Essential Oil
  • 2 drops Geranium Essential Oil

Directions

  • Mix all the ingredients in a 1 oz. dropper bottle
  • Store in a cool dry place
  • After washing skin apply 4 to five drops on face and rub in with circular motion
  • Apply once every morning to a cleansed face

Watch the Video Below! Step by Step Directions on How to Make Your Own Morning Routine Facial Serum Recipe

Once I started making my own recipes, I can’t imagine buying a moisturizer with ingredients that I KNOW aren’t pure and authentic.  With recipes like this one, I just feel good about what I’m putting on my face.  Besides, Who DOESN’T want the Best Essential Oil for Their Face?

That’s my whole goal for my 18 month Subtract the Years Journey, putting together a skin healthy diet along with a skin healthy cleansing and moisturing routine.  Right now I’m trying not to think about the end result (subtracting 10 years off my body), I’m just trying to focus and enjoy the journey now.

Stay tuned next week for an eye serum formula.  Every area on your body is important and needs special attention!

 

Love Your Journey

2010 …. Here I Come!

 

 

 

 

The Best Essential Oils for Whitening

Best Essential Oils for Lightening

Ohhh, those pesky “age spots”!  They’re on my hands, they’re on my chest!  All that awesome sunbathing in my youth has come back to haunt me!  Can I eliminate them naturally?  Yes!!!  I’ve found some very cool recipes that have the best essential oils for lightening those spots!  But first, why these particular essentials oils?  Let’s start with papaya seed oil…

Papaya Seed Oil for Lightening those Spots

Papaya seeds are rich Vitamin C and carotene which fight free radicals that darken skin leaving it splotchy.  It has the natural exfoliating enzyme papain which breaks down dead skin cells and sebum in your pores so the new skin can surface.  It contains vitamins A, C and E which helps eliminate scars and other damaged skin areas.  All the combined properties of Papaya Seed Oil helps even out skin tone by decreasing inflammation and healing damaged skin.

Lemon Essential Oil

Lemon essential oil also has large amounts of Vitamin C which fight free radicals that can darken skin. It’s also strong in antioxidants that can prevent symptoms of oxidative stress on the skin.  It can’t be put on the skin full strength, but needs a carrier oil such as papaya seed oil.

Carrot Seed Essential Oil

Carrot seed oil is loaded in beta carotene and vitamins A and E.  Not only does it fight the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles but it has a natural SPF of 40!!  It has the ability of repairing the damage caused by the sun and other modern day hazards such as pollution and smoking.  Of course, if you do smoke, now’s the time to quit and try reversing that damage!  😃

Sandalwood Essential Oil

Sandalwood is very aromatic and the 2nd most expensive wood in the world!  It is one of the best oils for topical anti-aging effects.  It’s astringent properties activates the skin to repair itself from numerous skin irritations.  This essential oil inhibits free radicals because it is high in antioxidants and so reduces (even reverses!) skin aging dramatically.

Best Essential Oils for Lightening – Recipe!

  •  2 Tablespoons papaya seed oil
  • 4 drops lemon essential oil
  • 4 drops carrot seed essential oil
  • 5 drops sandalwood oil

 

  • Mix ingredients in a glass bottle with a dropper.
  • Store in a cool, dry place.
  • Use 2-3 drops before bedtime and massage gently into skin, focusing on dark spots.  Leave on overnight.
  • DO NOT USE DURING THE DAY, the ingredients are photo-sensitive which can cause your skin to burn.

Watch the Video Below! Step by Step Directions on How to Make Your Own Essential Oil Recipe for Lightening those Age Spots!

I can hardly wait to see what a month of daily use can do with my new Lightening Serum!  Next week I will share a Face Serum Recipe that’s great for daily use!

DIY skin care regimens are sooooo rewarding and I feel better not spending an astronomical amount of money on Heavily advertised skin care products!  Don’t you?  See you next week!  😃

 

 

Exfoliate Your Skin Naturally

How Often Should I Exfoliate?

Your eating regimen is SUPER important for skin care, but topical skin care is SUPER important too!  Exfoliating your skin should be at the top of the list for topical skin care.  Of course, the big question is…How often should I exfoliate and how?!  Each person has a different type of skin.  Some people are more oily and some people are more dry.  Others have combination skin.  But, In my humble opinion, ALL persons need some type of exfoliation.  Let’s start with “mature” skin.

Why Should I Exfoliate My Mature Skin?

As we all know as our skin “matures” it becomes more dry.  When that starts to happen, fine lines and larger lines “wrinkles” start forming.  This dry skin accentuates those wrinkles making them appear more pronounced.  Having more pronounced wrinkles is NOT what I’m after.  Exfoliating the skin removes the dry, dead skin making room for new skin cells to form.  It helps smooth out the skin giving it a more even and refreshing look.  The wrinkles become less noticeable and a more youthful, vibrant you surfaces!

How Should I Exfoliate My Mature Skin?

Let’s start with the face. Mature skin can tear easily so I’m using the following:

1 teaspoon baking soda mixed into my Facial Cleanser.  Rub into skin with gentle circular motions.  Rinse thoroughly with warm water.

 

I’m thinking of trying this recipe next month:

1/2 cup oatmeal (ground fine in a blender)  Take a pinch of the oatmeal and add Greek Non Fat Yogurt until the oatmeal becomes a paste.  Rub into skin with gentle circular motions.  Rinse thoroughly with warm water.

How Often Should I Exfoliate?

I’m exfoliating 3 times a week.  My skin is sensitive, though.  I want my pores unclogged, I want the dead skin cells sloughed away so new ones form.  Three times a week still helps stimulate collagen growth without irritating my skin.  It’s all about balance!

How Should I Exfoliate the Rest of My Skin?

Let’s talk about the rest of the body’s skin areas.  Well, I’m sold on the loofah for those tough areas such as feet, knees, and elbows.  Check out my loofah video below.  Last year’s garden harvest!  I like to cut them up into small 1.5″ slices and exfoliate away!  There’s nothing like using a natural product on your body and since I personally picked it from my garden, I KNOW it’s 100% loofah!  Plus, home grown Loofah’s are fun to make and give away as gifts!

 

Exfoliating my skin has so many benefits!  Just washing isn’t good enough.  Removing the dead skin cells (gently) helps to unclog those pores, remove the dead skin cells so new ones aren’t hindered from reproducing and exfoliation stimulates collagen production.  Sounds like a great addition to my skin care regimen!

Exfoliation DOES NOT replace a nutrient dense diet, though!  So, keep eating healthy and add exfoliation to the routine!

Stay tuned for my next post – skin care 101!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Walking for Skin Health – Does it Really Work?

 

Is that true?  Does walking for skin health really work?  Well, I’m going to find out!  Now that I have my morning nutrient-dense breakfast food going, the last thing I want to do is have it pass right on through me and be eliminated as waste!  Sitting all day long at the office or in my car just keeps all those nutrients stagnate in my body.  House cleaning (exercise) won’t cut it!  It just isn’t enough and if I’m serious about Subtracting the Years, (and I DEF am!), those phytonutrients I’m eating for breakfast need to thoroughly circulate throughout my body and be useful.  And since blood carries oxygen and nutrients to working cells throughout the body, (including the skin) off I go to start my…..

Walking for Skin Health Routine!

This first week I’ve started walking for 20 minutes a day.  My schedule is pretty hectic so I don’t go to the gym.  Whose got that kind of time?!?!  Not me!  Since I supervise jobs all day long it works for me to just make it a point to STOP, Get Out Of My Car, set my phone timer on 10 minutes, and start walking.   When my timer Beeps, I turn around and go back to my car.  Voila!  Easy Peezy! 😌  (I’ll make sure to take walking shoes with me, rain boots, and an umbrella.  No excuses!)

It’s AMAZING  how only 20 minutes of easy nonstop walking can stimulate the blood to flow, ease the tension, and pump up the endorphins! Does walking for skin care really work?  Based on this first week, I think the answer will be “YES”!

On the technical side…I read a study that showed, “Blood vessels with high blood flow always showed a HIGHER elastin:collagen ratio in comparison with blood vessels with low blood flow.”  Check it out at….ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.

That HIGHER elastin:collagen ratio is what this Journey is ALL ABOUT!  Delivering those nutrients to every part of my body.  It’ll be fun to see the skin slowly but surely rejuvenating every month!

Stay tuned for next Monday’s post!  😃