While there are many exceptions to the rule, a lot of men simply do not like to spend much time or effort on a skin care routine. Also, some men are dissuaded from trying natural, homemade skin care products because of the complexity involved in making some of these concoctions.
However, it is greatly beneficial to your health to avoid using chemical-laden conventional products, many of which have been shown to contain potentially carcinogenic and hormone-disrupting ingredients.
There are many natural alternatives for skin moisturing, shaving and deodorizing that require just a handful of ingredients, or in some cases, just one.
The following are our best no-brainer choices for some basics of men’s skin care.
Moisturizer
For an all-over moisturizer that can do wonders for face, hands and body, look no further than organic, extra virgin coconut oil. Not only does this wonder-oil keep your skin soft, it also has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can keep acne from forming, and even keep athlete’s foot at bay. It also functions as a mild sunscreen.
If you need more intense moisture, such as for extremely dry and cracked hands, try shea butter. It is derived from the nut of the shea tree, which is native to Africa. Along with providing intense moisture, shea butter can help to ease many forms of dermatitis, and also soothe sunburn.
Shaving cream
Many conventional shaving creams, especially those that foam, are composed of chemicals that can be quite irritating to sensitive skin. Making your own natural cream is as simple as combining equal parts of shea butter and coconut oil until blended. For a little extra skin nourishment, add about two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
Aftershave
To tone and refresh your face after shaving, one of the best choices out there is raw, organic apple cider vinegar, sometimes known simply as ACV. Combine one part ACV to one part pure, filtered water, and apply to freshly-shaved skin. When choosing ACV, make sure to only choose a raw, organic variety, as pasteurized versions have had many of the health benefits processed out.
You’ll know your ACV is the real thing if you see a cobweb-looking substance floating in the bottle. This is known as the ‘mother of vinegar,’ is completely natural, and lets you know that the goodness of your ACV is intact.
Not only does ACV function as a great aftershave, it can also fight acne and reduce scarring. If desired, moisturize with a bit of coconut oil or shea butter after applying.
Deodorant
A large percentage of the deodorants on the market today contain aluminum, which has been linked to cancers, neurotoxic properties and endocrine disruption. Many other chemicals are also used in deodorants, ones which have no place sitting on your skin all day.
To make your own natural, effective deodorant, combine ½ cup of baking soda with ½ cup of cornstarch. Add enough melted coconut oil to make a paste, along with (if desired) 10 or so drops of peppermint essential oil.
Scoop into a glass jar, allow to set at room temperature, and it’s ready to use. If you prefer a more woody, musky scent, try cedarwood essential oil instead of (or combined with) peppermint.
Simple, natural and effective. Oh, and did we mention? You can save money, too!
-The Alternative Daily
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