Skincare Because We Care
Skin is the body’s largest organ and the immune system’s first method of defense against germs. The complex organ does a lot for us; it maintains tissue homeostasis, prevents infection, aids in tissue reproduction, prevents fluid loss, stabilizes body temperature, and relays sensory inputs. Given all that our skin does to protect us, it seems only fair that we return the favor. Taking proper care of your skin keeps you looking good and helps you protect your inner glow. Naturally, it is an important form of self-care. Celebrate the uniqueness of you and your skin.
Cooking with the Seasons at Rancho La Puerta, offers four skincare tips. Knowing your skin type and condition is the best place to start when determining how to take care of your skin. The most common types are normal, dry, oily, combination, and sensitive. If you don’t already know your type, try an online skincare quiz, like this one from Ask the Scientists https://askthescientists.com/skin-type-quiz/. Rancho La Puerta urges us to be gentle with our skin, avoid extreme temperatures, and rinse with tepid water. The number one piece of advice is to always wear sunscreen on exposed skin. Apply at least 3o minutes before ultraviolet exposure to maximize protection.
In addition, there is a 4-step basic skincare regime that is accessible to all and benefits all skin types. There is no need for fancy or expensive products; most of these tips and tricks require items that are likely already in your home.
Step 1: Cleanse
Wash the day (or night) off your skin and remove impurities. For additional soothing, apply 2 to 3 tablespoons of plain yogurt to damp skin in circular strokes.
Step 2: Tone
Remove the last bits of remaining dirt and restore your skin’s pH by spritzing it with apple cider vinegar diluted with water. If your skin is prone to blemishes, try mixing 2 ounces of grapefruit juice, 2 ounces of vodka, and 3 ounces of mineral water. Spray that in places that require extra drying and tightening.
Step 3: Nourish
Drinking more water is always a good idea to keep skin hydrated. When you need an extra boost, add cold-pressed oil, like olive oil, fresh mayonnaise, or organic margarine, to damp skin to rehydrate it. Nourishing takes moisturizing one step further by replenishing natural and necessary oils rather than simply addressing hydration. To easily make homemade mayonnaise, whisk 1 cup of olive oil into a large egg yolk, and add lemon juice to taste.
Step 4: Exfoliate
Shed old skin, stimulate nerve pathways, and begin again. Take advantage of the antibacterial properties of white sugar to remove accumulated dead skin cells. Slowly add water to 2 tablespoons of sugar to form a paste. Massage it into your face in circular motions, avoiding areas with active acne. Rinse with warm water, and splash with cold water to finish. This mixture is beneficial for the face and the body (just make a larger batch). It is also customizable: add brown sugar or salt for additional texture, or essential oils, such as lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint, or vanilla to enhance the scent and create an at-home spa experience.
As with most self-care rituals, consistency is key. Incorporate these tips into a daily routine, twice a day. Setting time in the day to wash your face will help you stay consistent which will improve your glow. Shine on!
References:
- Nguyen, Alan V., and Athena M. Soulika. “The Dynamics of the Skin’s Immune System.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, vol. 20, no. 8, 2019, p. 1811., https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms20081811.
- Szekely, Deborah, and Deborah M. Schneider. Cooking with the Seasons at Rancho La Puerta: Recipes from the World-Famous Spa. Stewart, Tabori & Chang, 2008, pp. 193-194.
