When you think of summer you automatically think of beaches, holidays, and fun in the sun. Whether you are more interested in picnics, camping, and barbeques this summer, or are just looking forward to lazing in and around the pool, one thing is for certain, you will be catching a whole lot of sun.
All this sun exposure and the sweltering summer heat is not all great news for people like me who have oily skin. The heat, humidity, and sun exposure triggers your skin to produce more sebum. Sebum then mixes with sweat and dust and causes multiple skin related problems like acne break, enlarged pores, whiteheads and blackheads. Following a proper clear skin regime is very important under such circumstances.
However, if you balk at the idea of putting too many chemical products on your skin, consider these wholesome, organic, and natural things you can easily find around your house that can help you tackle the excessive oil production caused by heat and its subsequent problems.
Lemons and Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is an excellent substitute for a toner, exfoliant and astringent if you have oily skin. The astringent properties of lemon help cut away the excess oil from your skin and give it a bright and fresh look. Just remember that lemon juice is acidic, so always dilute it before use. Never rub lemon directly on to your skin. You can apply diluted lemon juice on your skin with a cotton pad. Allow to air dry and then wash off with pure water. You just need to remember to keep it away from eyes.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are another super effective remedy for skin care. Tomatoes are chock full of nutrients and antioxidants, and hence very useful in in healing and clarifying the skin. Because of their slightly acidic nature and high concentration of potassium and vitamin C, they are excellent in removing dullness and adding radiance to the skin.
They can also be used to treat sun damage. Because of their astringent properties, tomatoes can reduce the excess sebum build-up on the surface of the skin and control oil build up, reducing the formation of blackheads and whiteheads. Simply slice a tomato and rub directly all over your face. Allow to dry and wash off with water. Tomatoes will remove the excess oil, shrink pores and give your skin a healthy glow.
Cucumbers
We all associate with cucumber slices places on eyes during facial treatments to provide a cooling effect. But did you know that cucumber juice is also brilliant in reducing oil from your skin, hydrating, cooling, and refreshing your skin? The benefits of using cucumber on your skin are not just skin deep. It also plays a role in reducing and fading blemishes, acne scars and brown spots.
Egg whites
Next time you have an egg white left over while baking, beat it with a fork and paint it all over your face. The egg white mask works on the collagen in your skin, tightening it and closing open pores. It also reduces oil production and strips away impurities and fine dirt particles form your skin. The proteins in the egg whites nourish and soften the skin as well.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has long been lauded as quite the miracle ingredient. A cotton ball dipped in apple cider vinegar works well as a natural and gentle toner for your skin. It cleans and clears up the skin, removing any extra oil and sweat in the process. The result is soft fresh and glowing skin.
Natural Clay
Natural clay or mud is renowned for its cleansing properties. Use it as a face mask and witness its oil absorbing properties at work. Clay mud is one of the best ways to strip the extra oil from your face. Use natural clay mixed with water or rose water to make a mask. Apply on your skin, Wait 15 to 20 minutes and then rinse off. However, avoid using clay more than once a week as it can completely dry out your skin.
Ice Ice Baby!
The final natural ingredient on my list is also the simplest, quickest and easiest way to tackle the oil problem. Rube an ice cube on your face in gentle circular motions. The ice will wash off the excess oil and cool down the skin. Additionally, the cryogenic nature of ice shrinks open pores while simultaneously shocking the skin which increases blood circulation to your face.
As a result your skin is oil free and radiant almost instantly.
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