Plants to the rescue

A lot of skin care products claim to use healthy natural ingredients. While this may be true, natural ingredients are often used in very small amounts they do not do us any good. If the lotions you have used for your complexion problems only make them worse, the best thing to do is to free yourself from the harsh chemicals found in these skin care products. I found some natural alternatives that have powerful properties that I'd like to share with you. These are all plant-based and gentle on skin.

For irritation and inflammation try using aloe vera gel. Recent study shows that aloe vera, when applied to UV burns, eased inflammation better than a 1 percent hydrocortisone gel. How to use it? Cut a leaf from the plant, squeeze some of the liquid onto your fingers, then apply it directly to your skin.

For acne and blemishes use tea tree oil. A study published in the Medical Journal of Australia found that a 5 percent tea tree oil gel reduced acne as effectively as a 5 percent benzoyl peroxide lotion, but with fewer side effects. How to use it? Put one or two drops of the essential oil on a cotton swab then dab blemishes.

For dry and scaly skin try using hazelnut oil. This oil is similar to our skin's natural oil and according to experts, this lightweight moisturizer penetrates the upper layers of the epidermis. Use it by massaging into skin right before bed to allow it to soak in overnight.