Internally, skin is fed and cleansed by a diet rich in fresh fruits, whole grains and vegetables. These foods provide more water, nutrients and fibre into diet and can make a remarkable difference in appearance of skin. Relaxation, adequate sleep, exercise and stress reduction also play an important role in keeping skin clear and healthy as they assist body to repair and detoxify itself.

Seasonal or climate changes, such as winter and humid summers in addition to dry, polluted environments also contribute to acne breakouts by drying out or irritating skin. As skin is exposed to dry temperatures moisture is lost through skin, triggering oil glands to produce more sebum. Keeping skin clean and moisturized is essential to preventing pores from becoming clogged with excess sebum. In humid conditions, skin loses moisture through sweat and evaporation, triggering same process which can lead to breakouts. Moisturizing and regular cleansing in dry, humid or polluted conditions can reduce onset of acne.

Makeup can also trigger breakouts. If they contain comedogenic ingredients, such as those derived from petroleum, they may contribute to acne despite a clean and healthy skin regimen or lifestyle. Choose all natural makeup which is in harmony with rest of your skin care regimen and less likely to contribute to breakouts.

Acne treatments which contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide worsen acne, as these are skin irritants and very drying. Tea tree essential oil is a natural alternative, and works by sterilizing infected area upon contact without damaging surrounding skin cells. It can also prevent microbial growth in that area for hours. Other treatments for acne include hydrocortisone which thins skin over time, or antibiotics which can contribute to microbial resistance in long term. Hormone treatments work by decreasing testosterone levels in body, since this is hormone responsible for sebum production. There are natural alternatives to aid in controlling acne, such as tea tree, lemon and juniper berry essential oils. These are effective and much safer to use for treating acne.

Acne can be a source of frustration for many. Much can be done, however to minimize occurrence of breakouts thereby reducing impact of acne on our lives. Making healthy adjustments to our diet, lifestyle and skin care product choices can lead to clearer, more radiant and healthy skin, free at last from acne.

• Erikson, K, (2002). Drop Dead Gorgeous
• Marsden, K, (1993). Super Skin
• Purvis, D, (1989). The Business of Beauty

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.