Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin is not a skin type, but rather a skin condition which has developed from a skin type. Anyone can develop sensitive skin, often due to hormonal changes caused by menopause or pregnancy. This condition can also develop from allergies to cosmetic ingredients, foods or environmental factors. Many ingredients made from animal products, petroleum or synthetics are known allergens for skin.

The characteristics of this skin condition are:

blotchy, reddened skin broken capillaries high cheek colour itchy, easily irritated skin chaps and burns easily prone to break-outs and rashes

This condition is worsened by ordinary soap, synthetic, animal or petroleum-derived ingredients, astringents, harsh exfoliants or drying masks, extreme temperatures and climate changes. Use only mild, soothing formulations on sensitive skin. If an adverse reaction occurs to any product, such as a burning feeling, discontinue its use immediately. The Organic Make-up Co. has found that following products have given those with sensitive skin relief and effective skin care: oatmeal soap, calendula or jojoba moisturizer, hand lotion in calendula and balanced facial oils for night-time.

Climate Change and Skin Care

Healthy skin is slightly acidic, due to acid mantle which covers it. The acid mantle is a combination of sebum and perspiration designed to protect skin from environment. Each day we lose 850 ml of water through perspiration, so drinking water is helpful to replace this lost fluid. During summer, water loss is more rapid, and humid conditions accelerate water loss through skin as body attempts to cool itself. As a result, sebum production increases, collecting on skin and clogging pores. For many, this process results in breakouts, so regular cleansing with a mild soap is recommended.

A good skin care regimen during summer months is following:

Cleansing with a natural, vegetable soap such as chamomile & calendula or lavender. Exfoliate with dual action gentle exfoliant system. Hydrate your skin with acne-prone toner or floral toner, depending on skin type. Moisturize with sweet almond or grapeseed moisturizer, regular formulation. Massage any face oil offered by The Organic Make-up Co. at night. Keep lips protected and moisturized with sunblocker lip balm, lip gloss in natural crimson or lip colour palette in strawberry jam or brick red. Cover up to reduce amount of exposure to sun with a wide brimmed hat, long and loose fitting clothing. Ninety percent of skin cancers are due to sun damage.

Skin is exposed to very dry environments during winter months. Heated homes and offices, wind and extreme temperatures increase amount of moisture lost through skin. Dry, chapped and flaky skin and lips are not uncommon during this season and are symptoms of unprotected skin. During winter months skin needs more protection and lubrication to inhibit moisture loss. In addition to regular cleansing and toning, moisturize hands, face and neck during day with a richer cream, such as The Organic Make-up Co.'s avocado or carrot tissue in rich formulation face cream. At night, gently massage geranium or avocado face oil. Keep lips protected with any lip product from The Organic Make-up Company.

Any skin care discourse which does not include a discussion of nutrition is lacking a fundamental principle of healthy skin care. Good health and beauty are synonymous. For instance, a clogged and spotty complexion can be linked to a diet high in saturated fats and sugar. Sensitive skin may become worsened by poor digestion or inadequate absorption of nutrients. Dry flaky skin may reflect a diet low in fatty acids or vitamin E. Skin that does not heal quickly may be low in vitamins A, B6, C or zinc.

A healthy, varied diet helps skin defend itself against infection, cell damage and premature aging. Increasing your daily intake of fresh, raw vegetables and fruit adds vitamins, antioxidants and water to your diet, all essential elements for healthy, glowing skin.

Beautiful, radiant skin is within everyone's reach. Knowledge of your skin type and how to care for your skin all year round, using all natural cosmetics, combined with a diet rich in fresh, wholesome foods will help you achieve skin you have always wanted.

Visit our website at www.organicmakeup.ca for a full range of natural skin are and make-up cosmetics. Our products are made fresh for you once we receive your order. We do not use any animal, petroleum or synthetic ingredients in our cosmetics. They are simply fresh, natural and beautiful.

Obtaining a good night's rest can be achieved. The following are suggestions to help towards goal of night-time rest:

Avoid stimulants like caffeinated drinks before bed. Avoid eating a heavy meal at night. A light snack might help if hunger causes you to wake up at night. Create a pleasant, warm (body temperature drops when sleepy), noise-free bedroom with a comfortable mattress and pillow. Avoid exercise before bed, however, regular exercise during day aids sleep. Avoid activities that increase anxiety, such as considering financial matters or discussing serious problems before bed. If possible, a quick daytime nap lasting 20 to 30 minutes can impart positive physiological benefits. Prolonged naps impair sleep at night and may cause insomnia. If experiencing insomnia, try getting up and engaging in another activity for a brief time and then attempt sleep again. A warm glass of milk contains tryptophan, a natural substance thought to aid sleep. Keep bedroom dark, since area of brain which controls sleep cycle is close to optic nerves and thus sensitive to light (feeling awake) and dark (feeling sleepy). Quit smoking, which increases blood pressure, heart rate and brain wave activity.

How can you know if you are a healthy sleeper?

Sleep comes easily at night. You rarely wake up during night and can fall back asleep with ease. You wake at same time each morning without an alarm. You feel alert during day and do not feel need to nap.

Getting a good night's rest refreshes body, mind and attitude. It is as vital to our health as good food and exercise. The phrase "beauty rest" is more than a quaint idea, it is a fundamental task in quest for external and internal beauty.

References:

Bricklin, Mark, (1990). The Natural Healing and Nutritional Annual, Ed., Rodale Press, Pennsylvania. Robinson, Victor M.D., (1941). The Modern Home Physician, Ed., Musson Books, Toronto. Tleac, Deborah, (2000). Everyday Health Tips, Ed., Rodale Press, Pennsylvania. Awake! Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York, Canada, March 22 2003. Awake! Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York, Canada, February 8 2004.