Skin is the largest organ of the body. It also receives the most abuse on a daily basis. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation via the sun, pollution, harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures can cause skin to lose its moisture and become dry, flaky, itchy and cracked. Dry skin is uncomfortable, unattractive and predisposed to bacterial infections. Herbal lotions can help to put moisture back into the skin while soothing and restoring its suppleness.- Lotions are designed to soothe and soften skin by increasing its hydration (water content) and creating a barrier to reduce evaporation. Applied directly to the skin with bare hands, gauze or a clean cloth, many lotions work well as a topical delivery system for medicinal herbs. The naturally derived ingredients found in herbal lotions are particularly effective in the treatment of dry skin and to relieve irritated or sunburned skin, while improving skin tone and texture.
Plants contain phytochemicals which can be absorbed through the skin and used by the body. Many herbs have therapeutic properties when used for skin care. For red, itchy or sunburned skin, look for a lotion containing calendula or aloe vera, both of which promote skin regeneration while soothing and cooling. For dry skin, an herbal lotion containing rose oil or rose petals would moisturize and give skin a healthy boost. For all-around skin revitalization, look for an herbal lotion containing peppermint which refreshed and stimulates while restoring elasticity to the skin. Other popular herbs for skin care include sandalwood, tea tree oil, horsetail and neem. Combinations of these herbal ingredients can be tailored to suit an individual's skin type of condition.- In the past, people who preferred herbal skin care products generally made their own lotions and potions at home from naturally occurring ingredients. While the benefits of some herbal ingredients remain old wives' tales, public preference for a natural product over a synthetic one has generated scientific interest in the possible therapeutic properties of popular skin care herbs. As a result, recent studies have proven that some ingredients such as chamomile promote healing and reduce inflammation and redness when applied directly to the skin. This research helped bring herbal lotions and other natural skin care products into the mainstream and they are now available in spas, beauty salons and drugstores nationwide.
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