Dry Skin Solutions

The weather is changing and it’s time to get ready for winter. I find that as the winter progresses I struggle with dry skin and so do my kids. Here are some simple solutions that I’ve found work well for me:

1. Avoid tradition lotions
   • So what’s the problem with traditional lotion? The problem is two fold. The beauty industry at large is completely unregulated. This shocks a lot of people but there are no laws that protect consumers from the harmful ingredients in their personal care products. If a product gives you a chemical burn, the government has no authority to pull it off the market.
   • The problem with traditional lotion is that it contains petroleum and mineral oil. These ingredients sit on skin and actually clog your pores. This prevents your skin from regulating moisture appropriately, which actually increases the dryness of your skin and can also contribute to the development of acne. Additionally these ingredients have been linked to cancer.
2. Utilize nourishing oils
   • Look for products that contain oils like coconut oil, jojoba oil, shea butter, or cocoa butter. These oils will nourish and replenish the skin.
   • Check the label on your product. If the first ingredient is water or alcohol, you may want to reconsider you product choice. Your skin maintains a natural barrier with a specific oil balance and products that contain alcohol and a high concentration of water can disrupt that balance.
3. Facial Oil Recipe
   • This recipe was inspired by information I learned from Liz Wolf.
   • Ceramides are a key oil-soluble component of your skin’s lipid layer and can improve dry skin for good.
   • I use 1/2 gram of ceramides for every ounce of oil (approximately). I chose to use Rosehip seed oil  because it is very hydrating and nourishing for the skin!
   • Gently heat your oils by pouring them in to a glass dish set in hot (not boiling!) water, then add ceramides and dissolve. When dissolved, pour your oils back in their container (a mini-spatulaand mini-funnel help I also got those from Mt. herbs) and use normally!
4. Oils for purchase
   • There are primarily three skincare companies that I get my products from:
     1. Beautycounter- My favorite facial oil is the No. 2 Plumping Facial oil. It helps improve dry skin and decreases the appearance of fine lines. I also love the Countermatch Adaptive Body Moisturizer for the rest of my body.
     2. Primally Pure- I’m obsessed with this company’s deodorant, but I also use their baby balm for my son!
     3. Primal Life Organics- if you have money to splurge the Vitamin C Serum is life-changing! I also love their body butter for my kids!

Questions about how to improve your dry skin? Email info@shelbyleppin.com for more information!