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Nourishment of Skin

Free Radicals

Free radicals are present in the human body and are also there in the environment. They can be in the sun, in cosmic emissions like solar flares, x-rays, cigarette smoke both passive and active, alcohol, exhaust, and the ozone. Free radicals are also found in mercury, lead and cadmium. In the human body, each free radical is a highly reactive compound that releases excess energy.

When your body is attacked by free radicals, they interact with the chemicals in your body, and prevent it from functioning normally. This leads to problems like cancer or atherosclerosis. For you to be able to withstand the onslaught of free radicals, your body will need to have an adequate supply of antioxidants.

Oils for the skin

Natural oils contain many organic constituents such as hormones, vitamins and other natural elements that can benefit the skin. They keep the skin supple and youthful. For best results, massage your whole body before you bathe or shower.

Natural oils are of two kinds: essential oils and carrier or base oils. Of them, essential oils are found in plants and the oils of plants are obtained by distillation. They are highly concentrated and used at low concentration.

The second kind of natural oils also known as carrier oils, includes almond, sunflower, olive, and walnut which are used in higher concentration in cosmetics. They can also be applied directly to the skin to nourish, take away its harshness and protect it. Often, they are used as a base to dilute essential oils.

Herbs

A healthy skin can be obtained and made to function well. You could choose many herbs like chamomile, fennel, and lavender, lemon balm, pot marigold, red clover, rose, sage and thyme. They are easy to grow and are easily available at health food stores.

If you use a herbal toner, it will soften your skin, promote circulation and restore the skin's naturally acidic, protective mantle. If you make a strong tea of the appropriate herbs, it works as a very good skin toner. To increase the astringent effect, just add a little white or apple cider vinegar to the mixture, refrigerate the toner, and replace it with a fresh mix after a few days. After washing, spray toner on the skin with a mister, or apply with a piece of cotton.

Read more to know about nourishing your skin...