Autumn Skincare Tips

Autumn is a time of spectacular natural beauty with the fields and trees so rich in texture and colour. Vibrant reds, orange, and yellow dominate and inspire the landscape.

Unlike the fast pace and excitement of Summer, Autumn is a time of winding-down, taking stock, and preparing for the long winter months ahead.

Fresh grains, nuts, fruits such as apples and pears and berries such as cranberries are typical of the Autumn season, and they all offer wonderful natural properties that nourish, protect and nurture our skin and bodies.

Quite often, major skincare companies attempt to reflect natural ingredients that are typical of each season, and to use those natural ingredients accordingly in customers' skin care routine.

Autumn is the perfect time to look after your skin after the intense, and often damaging and dehydrating, effects of the summer months and over exposure to UV.  Wearing and SPF of 30+ is just as important now as it was in the Summer, and I truly believe that protection and prevention are key in effective skin care.

Below are some of my favourite Autumn natural ingredients and their use in skincare:

Marigold (Calendula officinalis)
Marigolds are flowers typical of Autumn, though grown all year, as they don’t tolerate extreme cold or heat well. Their yellow and orange hues really remind me of Autumn, and as a plant remedy, well you don’t get more traditional than that! The plant extract or Calendula extract has many pharmacological uses and has long been proven to contain a variety of compounds that are anti-oxidant, anti-viral, and anti-inflammatory. Calendula is often found in natural skincare balms, lotions, gels, and salves because of its wound healing and skin regenerating properties. The petals are classed as edible and some incorporate them in salads and dishes, and the petals can also be infused at home to make a healing oil (though I must admit I have never tried this!).

Witchhazel (Hamamelis virginiana)
This plant flowers in late Autumn and its bark and leaves are made into a well-known and multipurpose skin freshener and toner. Witchhazel has been used as a staple in the medicine chest for at least 300 years, and was even used by Native Americans to heal wounds.

Cranberries (Oxycoccus palustris)
Cranberries are typical of the northern hemisphere, and are vastly grown in the US and Canada, where they form a special part of their Autumn traditional foods such as for Thanksgiving. Cranberry botanical extract is rich in essential fatty acids that are essential for skin nourishment and health.


As autumn fast approaches, here are seven tips on how to keep your skin beautiful in cool weather. When temperatures plummet, a seasonal wardrobe change helps protect most of your body from the elements. However, your face and hands will still be exposed, and even areas protected by clothing can be affected by a harsh climate. An autumn skin-care regime can help ensure your delicate features fare well even as blustery winds blow.

Sunscreen smarts
Most people know that slathering on the sunscreen is a must when heading to the pool or beach, but your skin can actually take a hit from the sun’s damaging rays all year round. Apply a sunscreen lotion or moisturiser containing SPF daily to reduce the risk and minimise your chances of sun spots and wrinkles.

Healthy hydration
When it’s hot, you’re more likely to feel thirsty and drink more, but staying well hydrated is important in colder weather, too. Proper hydration affects numerous body functions, such as ensuring your muscles and joints are well-lubricated and helping your body to regulate its temperature. Water is the solution most experts recommend, but non-sugary options like tea can also help.

Food factors
Although limiting the amount of fat you consume is generally recommended for a nutritious eating plan, in the autumn and winter it’s especially important to be sure you’re consuming enough healthy fats and Omega-3s to promote moisture from the inside out. Good sources include eggs, nuts, avocados and lean proteins like fish, turkey, chicken and beef.

Clothing concerns
Even if you don’t feel the chill, cold wind can do a number on your skin. Be sure to cover up adequately when outdoors to prevent the chapping and irritation that can come from sustained exposure. Also be wary of precipitation; be sure your outer layers repel water and that you can change into dry clothing promptly if you do get wet.

Ample exercise
Getting your heart rate up helps get your blood circulating, which is not only good for burning calories and beefing up your muscles, it also promotes healthy skin. Sweating helps push impurities out of your pores, and the increased circulation helps distribute nutrients throughout your body, including the skin.

Avoid irritants
Especially if you have sensitive skin, cool wind can be brutal. Take care to avoid potential problems by sticking to softly textured fabrics that won’t get itchy. Take it easy on the exfoliating and be mindful of skin care products, soaps and detergents that may be particularly drying to already parched skin. Also skip the temptation to warm up in a hot shower, which can dry your skin even further.

Manage moisture
Even oilier skin types may need extra moisture when dry, cold conditions prevail. Oil-free options let you add moisture without over-stimulating oil glands, while natural oils such as coconut or jojoba are ideal for dryer skin. Apply a lotion after every shower to trap in moisture and as needed throughout the day to prevent chapping and cracking, and give special attention to areas that are prone to damage, such as your lips and hands. Find more ways to weather through this winter at eLivingToday.com.

Ways to perfect a carefree style
A carefree style may appear effortless, but creating a look that stands up to a busy day still requires some simple work. Keep your skin in top condition and your hair and makeup on point with these tips from the beauty experts at US department store Macy’s to help you look and feel your best.

Protect your skin
If there’s only one skin care product you use, it has to be sunscreen. Not only is daily SPF important for avoiding sunburn, it also helps prevent wrinkles and spots caused by sun damage. Apply early and often, and don’t be fooled by a cloudy day. Even when skies are overcast, those UV rays can inflict plenty of harm. If you’ll be out for an extended period, consider a stylish hat to lend extra protection to your scalp, ears and face. Also remember to cover or apply sunscreen to often-overlooked places, such as the tops of your feet.

Go for all-day eyes
When you’re embracing a laid-back look, a fully done eye can be overkill. A basic tint and some mascara is a simple way to achieve a put-together but fuss-free style. Using a waterproof formula can give you the confidence that your lashes are in perfect condition and ready for whatever the day may bring. If you have a favourite formula, check to see whether a waterproof version is available.

Make it matte
For lip colour that lasts from sunrise to moonlight, matte lipstick is the real deal. In addition to being long-lasting, matte lipsticks pack an intense punch of colour perfect for a bright and cheerful lip. If a little sparkle or shine is more your thing, go ahead and add a light layer of clear gloss and give yourself bonus points if one layer or both include SPF.

Explore new ideas
Pamper yourself with products you already love but explore new ideas and discover all-new cleansers, serums, moisturisers and a mask that will help .... Face oils can also do wonders on your skin.

What to do about scars

It doesn't take much to pick up a scar and it's hardly the sort of thing we like to show off.  But it is possible to make them less visible....


Though we tend not to think of it as an organ, our skin is actually the largest organ in the body. So it's no surprise that most of us have picked up a scar at some point in our lives. Whether down to injury or surgery, a scar is the result of the body's natural healing process. Once the wound or cut is 'repaired' (often with stitches), we lay down collagen fibres (a type of protein) to replace the damaged tissue.

Collagen continues to be produced for several months, often leading to a raised, lumpy, red scar. Over time, this process slows and the scar gradually becomes smoother and paler. Scarring relates to the depth of the cut. This explains why some injuries heal without scarring, even if they're large.

Will my scar disappear?
All scars will fade with time, though they won't disappear, however, how long this takes depends on several factors: the
kind of scar it is, where it is and skin type. Most scars are the pale, thin, flat type if the wound has healed well, and without infection. These are the "best" ones in terms of appearance over time. It takes a minimum of 12 months, and up to three years, for a scar to fade so it is no longer noticeable.

Where the scar is makes a difference, too. One on the abdomen, where the skin is thicker, takes longer to heal.  And one over the knee or shoulder can 'spread' through constant movement of the joint. If it's skin around the eyes, which is the thinnest, scars will heal very quickly. Within a week or so, it's possible to wear make-up.

Skin type is also a factor; those with type 1 skin (red-headed, freckled or fair-skinned with blue eyes) are at risk of a redder scar that fades less readily. However, experts don't really fully understand why this is the case.  

Available treatments? Silicone gels or sheets (available from some pharmacies) can help reduce redness and lumpiness. These need to be applied for several hours a day for at least three months. Silicone creams are also available.

Other types of scars
Hypertrophic scars These are caused by an imbalance of collagen production and are red and raised. 'They are usually treated with steroid injections and silicone gels or sheets. They do get better with time, though this may take three years or so. Keloid scars Also caused by excess collagen production, these are lumpy and raised, and extend beyond the original wound. More common in Afro-Caribbean skins, they are treated in a similar way to hypertrophic scars.


Regular mas.sage can definitely help scars to fade and mature more quickly. Once the scar has healed, massage with oil (such as Bio-Oil or vitamin E), for 15-20 minutes twice a day for 12 months. This should be done religiously to get the best result. If a scar is causing you undue psychological distress, cosmetic camouflage can be effective. Some services are available on the NHS - check with your GP in the first instance, who may refer you to a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. 'Options include semi-permanent make-up and tattoos. And specialists can also advise on special make-up to minimise the appearance of scars.


Magic Massage Oils
Rosehip oil is the best one to choose otherwise, go for vitamin E oil - if you can't find this, simply split open vitamin E capsules to release the oil. Calendula (or marigold) which you can find in some massage oils, is a good healer, too. And remember to aid healing from the inside as well - eat plenty of vitamin E-rich foods, such as avocado, and fruit and vegetables that are rich in antioxidant vitamin C, especially kiwis.

20 of the Best of the Oils to Treat Eczema

Eczema (also known as dermatitis) is a dry skin condition. It is widely considered the most common skin disease. The term eczema is broadly applied to a range of persistent skin conditions. These include dryness and recurring skin rashes that are characterized by one or more of these symptoms: redness, skin oedema (swelling), itching and dryness, crusting, flaking, blistering, cracking, oozing, or bleeding.

If you have eczema, your skin may not produce as many fats and oils as other people’s, and will be less able to retain water. The protective barrier is therefore not as good as it should be. Gaps open up between the skin cells because they are not sufficiently plumped up with water. Moisture is then lost from the deeper layers of the skin, allowing bacteria or irritants to pass through more easily. Some everyday substances contribute to breaking down the skin. Soap, bubble bath and washing-up liquid, for example, will remove oil from anyone’s skin, but if you have eczema your skin breaks down more easily, quickly becoming irritated, cracked and inflamed.

According to the UK’s National Eczema Society, a cornerstone of managing and treating eczema is to keep the skin soft and supple. This can be done by using emollients, which keep the skin moist and flexible. Emollients soothe and relieve the itch, producing an oily layer over the skin surface which traps water beneath it. The resulting restoration of the skin’s barrier function by emollients prevents penetration of irritants, allergens and bacteria thereby reducing or preventing the development of eczema.

I have previously written about the benefits of facial oils. You can read it here: http://centella-skincare.blogspot.co.uk/2014/04/facial-oils.html 

The benefits of some of the newer imports from Africa is also discussed in another post. You can read it here: http://centella-skincare.blogspot.co.uk/2014/08/out-of-africa.html

1. Almond Oil (Prunus amygdalus dulcis) – Sweet almond oil is one of the most used carrier oils as it is quite light and is widely available. Almond oil is traditionally cold pressed but much of the almond oil available for sale is extracted using solvents. This oil is a great emollient and nourishes dry skin. It is beneficial in relieving the itching caused by eczema.

2. Jojoba Oil (Simmondsia sinensis) – Although jojoba is typically called an oil, it is actually a liquid wax. In fact, its molecular structure is very similar to that of sebum, the natural oil produced by our skin, which means that it absorbs very easily and does not feel greasy. Its therapeutic properties include uses for dry skin and eczema.

3. Apricot Kernel Oil (Prunus armeniaca) – Very similar in chemical makeup to almond oil, apricot kernel oil is also a great emollient and nourishing oil. Apricot kernel oil is softening, easily absorbed and also great for relieving the itchy symptoms of eczema. This oil is used less than almond oil as it is slightly more expensive.


4. Hemp Seed Oil (Cannabis sativa) – Don’t worry, hemp seed oil doesn’t contain any psychoactive properties! In fact, hemp seed oil is another rich source of essential fatty acids and has been found to provide relief from the itchy symptoms of eczema.

5. Borage Seed Oil (Borago officinalis) – Produced here in the UK, borage is a prolific self-seeder and produces thousands of tiny little black seeds which are pressed for their oil. It is one of the best known sources of Gamma Linolenic Acid, an essential fatty acid. Although a recent study found that borage oil and evening primrose oil when taken internally do not have any significant effects on eczema, it is a non-irritating oil so can still be beneficial for dry and sensitive skin.

6. Evening Primrose Oil (Oenothera biennis) – Much like borage oil, evening primrose oil is rich in unsaturated fatty acids which are used to repair and maintain skin tissue. Evening primrose oil is frequently used in cosmetic preparations and is good for dry skin. It is thought to be helpful for eczema and wound healing.

7. Chamomile Oil (Chamomilla recutita or Anthemis nobilis) – Another good macerated oil is one containing German or Roman chamomile flowers. Chamomile is anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and fungicidal. Clinical trials have shown that use of chamomile reduces cases of dermatitis.

8. Cumin Seed Oil (Cuminum cyminum) – Perhaps more familiar in curry, cumin seeds are cold pressed for their oil. It is frequently used in cooking but is also known for its cosmetic properties and is thought to be effective in cases of eczema and other skin irritations.

9. Calendula Oil (Calendula officinalis) – This oil is obtained by infusing calendula’s orange petals in another vegetable oil in order to extract its properties. This process is known as maceration. Calendula is known for its great skin properties and can be used to treat bruises, cuts and eczema. It is also useful for chapped and dry skin.

10. Kukui Nut Oil (Aleurites moluccans) – Also known as the ‘candlenut’, the kukui nut tree is found all over the tropics but is best known in Polynesia and Hawaii. Hawaiians have been using kukui nut oil for hundreds of years to protect and heal skin exposed to the elements. Kukui nut oil is easily absorbed into the skin and is good for eczema and dry skin.

11. Carrot Oil (Daucus carota) – Much like calendula, carrot oil is prepared by macerating chopped carrot in another vegetable oil. Carrot is used for soothing itchy skin and is thought to be helpful in treating eczema. It should not be confused with the essential oil, carrot seed oil, which is very different.

12. Perilla Seed Oil (Perilla frutescens) – Obtained from the seeds of the Perilla herb, Perilla seed oil is a rich source of unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins and amino acids. It is frequently used in cooking and is also used along with synthetic resins in the production of varnishes. However, it is also known for its cosmetic properties and can be used to treat dry eczema.

13. Safflower Oil (Carthamus tinctorius) – The Safflower looks a lot like a thistle and its seeds produce an oil that resembles sunflower oil in its makeup. Safflower oil is used in skin-softening cosmetics and is helpful against eczema and rough skin.

14. Peach Kernel Oil (Prunus persica) – Much like almond and apricot kernel oils, peach kernel oil is suitable for dry and sensitive skin and relieves itching from eczema. It absorbs easily but slowly and is a mild oil, suitable for most skins.


15. Sea Buckthorn Oil (Hippophae rhamnoides) – Another macerated oil, sea buckthorn oil comes from an infusion of the berries in a vegetable oil. Sea buckthorn oil contains high levels of essential fatty acids and is used to heal skin injuries such as eczema.

16. Rosehip Oil (Rosa canina) – In my previous post on rosehip oil, we looked at the skin healing properties of this fantastic oil. Rosehip oil is frequently used in cosmetics and is a fantastic natural source of retinoic acid which works well for scarring, burns and eczema.

17. Tamanu Oil (Calyphyllum inophyllum) – The Tamanu tree is native to East Africa but grows all over the southern hemisphere. Each tree only yields about 4-5 litres of oil per year which makes this ingredient expensive. The oil is, however, very much worth it as it is claimed to have anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to treat various hair, scalp and skin problems, including eczema.

18. Sesame Oil (Sesamum indicum) – Frequently used in Asian cooking, sesame seed oil is high in vitamins A, B and E as well as calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. This fragrant oil is also used in various cosmetic preparations (including shampoos, sunscreens, soaps) and is used for dry eczema thanks to its skin-softening properties.

19. Wheatgerm Oil (Triticum vulgare) – This oil contains high levels of vitamin E which is a natural antioxidant and prevents oils from going rancid quickly. In fact, vitamin E levels are around 3,500 ppm compared to 250-600ppm in other plant oils (Price, 2008). These natural antioxidants make wheatgerm oil a great anti-ageing oil as it softens the skin and help with cell regeneration. For this reason it is also useful for dry eczema.

20. Walnut Oil (Juglans regia) – The walnut produces a deep golden brown oil which is most often used in cooking. Walnut oil is also frequently used in hair and skin preparations and is said to be effective in treating eczema. It is an excellent emollient.

Please note – It goes without saying that if you intend to experiment with any of these oils, you should always do a skin patch test first. Although all of these carrier oils are safe to use on the skin, some people can be allergic to nuts & seeds or sensitive to certain oils which can cause dermatitis or allergic reactions. Be sensible and always test new ingredients out before incorporating them into any kind of skincare regime.

Ref: Read more: http://www.herbhedgerow.co.uk/20-best-oils-for-treating-eczema/#ixzz3hZJQVkOt
More about herbs from: http://www.herbhedgerow.co.uk/ 

Natural & Herbal Approaches to Eczema

The flower of the Chamomile
plant - renowned for its healing
and anti-inflammatory properties

I have had numerous requests for information on natural approaches to eczema. This stems mainly from the fact that conventional approaches require often harsh treatments and drugs that are steroid based (such as hydrocortisone cream) and if it is particularly bad especially in children, many parents worry about-the long-term use of steroid based drugs over the years. Although topical (applied externally), these drugs are absorbed into the body and often makes the skin thinner over time and may lead to systemic problems later on. Many people also don't realise that eczema requires a holistic approach to treatment and management that involves nutrition, herbal treatments (both internal and topical) as well as stress-management, digestive and immune health.

Eczema is a dry skin condition characterised by patches of inflamed, red, itchy skin. There are small fluid-filled blisters which develop and subsequently burst giving the characteristic ‘weepy’ skin appearance. The patches then crust over. Recurrent attacks lead to scarring and thickening of the skin which changes the colour and appearance of the skin, affecting its integrity and purpose. Severe eczema is very distressing particularly if the face, neck and hands are affected. Many children outgrow this condition and in some it is also accompanied by hay fever and/or asthma as all 3 conditions fall in the band of allergic conditions called atopic allergy.

The herbal approach is to use a range of anti-inflammatories, demulcents and skin restoratives. In this respect, herbs such as calendula cream, chamomile cream or liquorice cream are excellent. Skin restoratives such as centella fixed oil or comfrey cream are great choices. Anti-pruritic creams such as chickweed will prevent the intense itching and will also soothe the skin. Long-term use of topical creams combined in a mixture that includes all these actions will restore skin integrity so that it begins to resemble healthy skin again. Internal mixtures (either tinctures and/teas) that include chamomile, centella, liquorice can also be considered. A good combination for most dry skin conditions is a mixture of sarsaparilla and mahonia. As eczema is an immune condition, a herb such as echinacea is invariably added in order to modify immune responses so that inflammation is kept to a minimum in predisposed individuals.

Owing to the general dryness in the system and the lack of moisture, supplementation of hemp seed oil is highly recommended. This nutrient replenishes the fats that are essential to diet and general nutritional status. Most dry conditions occur in systems that are deficient in these essential fatty acids (notably the omega fatty acids). They are also found naturally occurring in fatty fish (such as salmon, tuna, mackerel, herring, trout & sardines) as well as some nuts (eg. walnuts) and seeds (linseeds, hemp seed and others). It is vital for the skin to have these fats for its healthy state and function. It can be added to smoothies but choose those that are not yoghurt-based as dairy aggravates the condition and be careful about the sugar content in these drinks.

Other supplements such as vitamin C (for wound healing and for general health and vitality of the skin), as well as zinc are also highly recommended. The mineral zinc is an essential part of our immune system and is required to modulate the immune responses in the body. Inflammatory conditions can often result from a deficiency of zinc in the diet and studies have shown it to have a beneficial effect in eczema.

General dietary & lifestyle recommendations in eczema:

• Increase fatty fish intake (good examples are listed above)
• Increase flaxseeds/linseeds. These can be bought from most supermarkets and can be easily sprinkled on top of cereals for a crunchy texture. This is high in the omega fatty acids so it is a good nutrient. Another suitable choice is hemp seed oil (as above)
• Limit all dairy intake especially cheese, milk, eggs, yoghurt etc…
• Try goat’s cheese as an alternative to dairy cheese
• Limit or avoid altogether all junk food – far too many additives and chemicals that could trigger an inflammatory response in sensitive systems
• Reduce red meat where possible and eat more fatty fish & chicken instead
• Increase intake of fresh fruit and vegetables. Go organic & non-GMO whenever possible and go for variety. This will ensure you cover all bases where nutrition is concerned
• Try gluten-free foods – there could be a possible wheat sensitivity
• Plan the weekly food shopping by making a list and spend time thinking about meals way ahead so you have some control over diet and culprit foods
• Limit eating out where possible but once in a while is OK or choose foods that are ‘safe’  (non-culprits foods) on the menu
• Avoid wool and nylon materials in clothing
• Avoid coconut oil, lanolin and coal tar products in all toiletries
• Try almond or olive oil with a few drops of chamomile essential oil (EO) or lemon balm EO as an alternative moisturiser to the skin
• Vitamin E cream or oil is also a good moisturiser for the skin
• Sea salt baths once a week. Or add oatmeal to baths – great for nourishing the skin and an excellent moisturiser for eczema.
• Take regular exercise to boost circulation and the healing process. Exercise will also boost immunity and general health & vitality.
• Consider stress-reduction measures and relaxation techniques. Stress contributes significantly to the condition and can make an existing episode much worse.

 

For further information, contact the College of Practitioners of Phytotherapy(http://www.phytotherapists.org/) or the National Institute of Medical Herbalists (http://www.nimh.org.uk/).