Herbs for Healthy Skin

Alas, Summer has sung its last song for this year and while it was wonderful to soak up the sun (safely), enjoy blue-sky days and the lush green grass beneath our feet (any fans of grounding out there?), the much anticipated sweater-weather is upon us. And I, for one, am now in my element! However, with the temps cooling, the air drying out, and heat being turned on in our homes, cars, and offices, our skin also needs help acclimating. Just as our wardrobes change with the seasons, so must our skincare. A little more care, a little more moisture, and a little more lovin’ will keep you dewy and golden like the Autumn’s Golden Hour.

Nature knows best

Here are some beneficial herbs/oils for your over-50 skin…

(to be used topically)

Rosehip Oil-Rosehips are chock full of antioxidants, most notably Vitamin C, which eases inflammation and thus works to combat signs of aging. Can be used alone or mixed into a moisturizing cream.

Rosewater-In addition to being an effective astringent, it makes a great toner first thing in the morning to mist the face and the scent of roses can’t help but put you in a good mood

Witch Hazel-Used also as a toner/astringent, Witch Hazel also is a mild antibacterial, great for oily complexions, as it is drying.

Calendula-This sunny, summer flower is bursting with healing properties for your skin. Wonderfully soothing for sensitive skin.

Chamomile and Lavender-Used individually or a powerful duo, this team is uber-soothing and relaxing for face steams or baths. Both of these are great for normal to dry skin. 

Organic Olive Oil-an absorptive, easily acquired, and cost efficient natural moisturizer. Be sure to use only organic, virgin and cold-pressed oil. Cold pressed is simply a method of extracting

Oil or Organic Coconut Oil-A little goes a long way, but during the winter months in particular, this oil is fabulously hydrating. Wildly cost-effective, too. Same as with the olive oil, cold pressed is best, this process helping to retain all the nutrients which then get transferred to you.

And working from the inside out…

If we have heard it once, we have heard it a zillion times: Hydrate. Luckily, tea and coffee both fit the bill in this category, a debate that has raged for the ages. The amount of caffeine they might pull from your system doesn’t override the amount of liquid/water that your system takes in, so drink up! Get yourself a good water bottle that fits in your car, your purse and your life and let it follow you everywhere and be your friend. Most times, when we are hungry, we are actually thirsty and we don’t feel thirsty until we are actually dehydrated. Make it a challenge to stay ahead of it!

Get enough protein in your diet. Foods that contain primary amino acids that make up collagen work wonders on your skin and help it to remain healthy or get healthier. Foods such as meats, fish, eggs, bone broth, dairy, legumes, and tofu are your good friends.