For the past few years I've been trying different stuff for my skin. I've tried things from low end classics like Cetaphil to $32 fancy-shmancy moisturizers. Non of them have worked as well as my current routine. I think my body likes things that come from the earth...
Everything on this list is inexpensive, eco-friendly, and FULL of benefits...
Coconut Oil is an oil that we all should have on hand. In this instance I use it as a makeup remover. The oil works as a makeup melter... yes, a make up melter, dude. I swear this is THE best.
Plus, it's ANTI-BACTERIAL and ANTI-FUNGAL
To Use: Get a little on your finger tips, warm it up, then rub it all over your face.
REAL African Black Soap, and I'm not talking about the kind you can get at Target. That's not the right kind. You get this from the Flea Market or from small scale vendors. Real black soap is not black, contrary to what the name leads you to believe. The product is a brown and black speckled mixture that has been used for generations by some of the most beautiful and health people on the planet.
The soap cleanses gently, so it's ideal for people with rosacea, rashes, dryness and other skin conditions. African black soap contains plantain extract, which has
antibacterial properties that may help treat acne breakouts.
To Use: Lather a little in your hands with some water and, again rub it all over your face. Just wash your face, lol.
Bentonite Clay, is the sh*t. Shout out to Britney and Josh for putting me on. I use it as a post-cleansing mask. The mask in my opinion, is a bit uncomfortable. I keep it on long enough to brush my teeth, moisturize, and comb out the fuzz on top of my head.
It creates a charge when it comes into contact with water and helps to draw out impurities. And don't get me wrong, when i remove the mask... MY FACE IS SUPER SMOOTH!
To Use: Mix a bit with water. Keep adding water and mixing until you reach your desired consistency. then apply in layers until it looks like you have a grey, opaque, terrifying looking mask on. Use a washcloth and warm water to remove the paste.
Shea Butter is my tried and true all-time favorite skin care item. Use a little in the day befor makeup and a lot at night for glowing skin in the morning. When I think about shae butter I swoon.
Here's why love the stuff so much:
1. It's fatty acids and vitamins help to moisturize skin better than ANY other
2. It has this stuff called lupeol cinnamate which helps to reduce inflammation
3. It helps your skin produce collagen naturally... No wonder black don't crack.
Check out this article for more information.
To Use: This oil is a vastly different texture from the coconut oil I mentioned. It also has a higher melting temperature, so either heat it or REALLY work it with your hands before... rubbing it all over your face. I like to give myself a Lisa Eldridge-style massage.
If you were to go out and buy these things it would run you lees than $35 maximum, $25 if you're smart. I really love this routine because I feel that Mama Earth has already given us what we need to flourish. All we need to do is use it.
#25forthecollective Love your skin.
