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Caring for your skin can be challenging, especially when it's constantly misbehaving. Whether you're struggling with dry, irritated patches or the occasional breakout, skin concerns not only cause discomfort but can also affect your confidence.
Thankfully, you don't always need to see a dermatologist. Instead, at-home natural remedies can help alleviate various skin troubles. However, remember that professional advice or treatment is often the most effective solution for certain skin conditions. "Natural DIY remedies work well in emergencies, but they should never replace proper skincare," advises Joanna Vargas, celebrity esthetician in New York City.
It's important to note that the term "natural" gets thrown around often, and just because something is labeled as such doesn't mean it's safe. "Natural can encompass thousands of ingredients, and as I often say, poison ivy is natural," says Rajani Katta, MD, a clinical professor of dermatology at McGovern Medical School at UT Health in Houston, Texas, clinical assistant professor of medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, and author of GLOW: The Dermatologist's Guide to a Whole Foods, Younger Skin Diet.
Dr. Katta mentions that many of her patients inquire about natural skincare due to concerns about allergic reactions or the toxicity of over-the-counter (OTC) products. "It's crucial to evaluate each natural product individually," she explains. While some natural ingredients have been well-researched and shown to be as effective as OTC products, others may lead to side effects like allergic contact dermatitis.
For the safest approach to organic skincare, look no further than the most natural "products" on the planet: food.
"Farm to face goes beyond farm to table," says Ava Shamban, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Beverly Hills, Calif., and founder of AVA MD and SKINFIVE. "I've always believed that glowing skin can be found in your pantry, as a variety of plant-based botanicals, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and other natural extracts contribute to the health and strength of our skin, hair, and nails." These ingredients not only calm, hydrate, and reduce inflammation, but also provide antioxidants, exfoliate, balance, brighten, and offer what Dr. Shamban calls "skinsational" results.
Here are six all-natural ingredients that serve as both topical treatments and soothing relief for common skin issues.
Getty Images1. Epsom Salt
What it does: This humble ingredient tackles inflammation, irritation, and dryness while calming and smoothing rough patches to create softer, more even skin. "Epsom salt is a fantastic choice for a scrub or bath, as it’s packed with magnesium, an essential element involved in over 300 metabolic processes, including regulating blood pressure and supporting the immune system," says Dr. Shamban. It also helps detoxify and relax muscles, and when paired with essential oils, it exfoliates, hydrates, moisturizes, and seals in moisture.
How to use it: To enjoy an Epsom salt bath, dissolve 1 cup in warm water and soak for 20-30 minutes one or two times per week. For a scrub, mix 1/4 cup of olive oil, five drops of pure lavender essential oil, 3 teaspoons of Epsom salt, and 1 teaspoon (equivalent to two tea bags) of green tea in a bowl or jar. Stir until it reaches a paste-like texture, adding more Epsom salt or olive oil if needed. Gently massage the paste into damp skin, avoiding your face.
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2. Green Tea
What it does: What can't green tea do? First, it combats signs of aging. "Green tea reduces inflammation and eliminates free radicals to provide anti-aging benefits," says Dr. Shamban. It’s gentle and soothing on the skin, and its epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) acts as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and natural sunscreen, offering photoprotective effects. Green tea is also a key ingredient in some keratosis pilaris treatments. The only caveat? While it does offer some extra sun protection, "green tea should never replace broad spectrum SPF 30," she advises.
How to use it: Create a simple toner that helps reduce eye puffiness anytime. Combine 1/4 cup of well-brewed green tea with 1/4 cup of witch hazel (which can be found at most local pharmacies). If desired, add up to 1/2 cup of rosewater. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and refrigerate for a refreshing, cooling effect that lasts for 10 to 14 days.
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3. Honey
What it does: "Honey is one of Mother Nature's top performers," says Dr. Shamban. It's not just antibacterial and anti-inflammatory; it’s also anti-viral and anti-fungal, making it effective at reducing inflammation and promoting the skin's healing process. Thanks to its flavonoids, honey is especially helpful for acne and blemish-prone skin. Research shows that it can actually reduce both the size and the duration of acne blemishes, she adds.
How to use it: To combat inflammation or sensitive skin, Dr. Shamban suggests mixing 1 tablespoon each of Manuka honey, matcha powder (or green tea or chamomile tea), and sweet almond oil, applying it to the skin as needed. For dry skin relief, try a honey mask by combining 1 tablespoon each of Manuka honey and olive or almond oil with half an avocado, mashed. Apply the mask to your face for 15 to 20 minutes once or twice a week, or whenever necessary, and finish with a moisturizer for dry skin.
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4. Oats
What it does: Oatmeal baths are great for calming irritated skin, often recommended for sunburn, eczema, and poison ivy to soothe red, inflamed patches. "Studies show that colloidal oatmeal has mild anti-inflammatory effects," says Dr. Katta.
How to use it: Grind whole, uncooked oats in a food processor until they form a fine powder. Add the powder to a warm bath (the water should turn white and milky) and soak for 10 to 15 minutes.
5. Soy
What it does: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and fiber, soy offers antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. "Soy has been found to reduce hyperpigmentation, improve skin elasticity, regulate sebum production, and boost cellular hydration," Dr. Shamban explains. Additionally, its antioxidant content helps reduce photo-aging of the skin.
How to use it: Create a soothing, milky cleanser to gently exfoliate your skin by mixing 2 teaspoons of nutmeg powder, 4 tablespoons of soy milk, and 1 to 2 teaspoons of plain Greek yogurt. Apply it to your face, massaging in circular motions for 1 minute. Let it sit for another minute before rinsing with lukewarm water. Repeat daily for best results.
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6. Coconut Oil
What it does: For those seeking a moisturizer for sensitive skin, coconut oil has gained recognition as a potent and scientifically backed ingredient. "Studies have demonstrated that it helps enhance skin moisture and reduces water loss after application," Dr. Katta explains.
How to use it: Simply apply coconut oil, even the variety intended for cooking, to any dry patches on your skin, including your face.
