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The clean beauty movement—also known as natural, nontoxic and green beauty—focuses on products that are free of ingredients that have been shown to harm humans and the environment. These include synthetic preservatives, which may cause contact dermatitis, and sulphates, which leach into water systems and contribute to eutrophication and “dead zones” in aquatic ecosystems.

Baking soda

Baking soda is one of those cheap, easy-to-find products that has a lot of hidden superpowers. It can help you deodorize, whiten your teeth, and more. In fact, it can even prevent heartburn and boost exercise performance. But did you know that baking soda is also an ingredient in many of your favorite clean beauty products?

The powdered substance is actually a natural mineral called sodium bicarbonate. It’s commonly used in baked goods as a leavening agent, which creates carbon dioxide bubbles to make cakes and breads rise. It can be found in both natural and synthetic forms. Natural baking soda is mined as nahcolite, while baking powder is made from a mixture of sodium bicarbonate and other ingredients.

Besides being an essential kitchen tool, baking soda can be used in clever DIY beauty hacks. It can help you get glowing skin, whiten your teeth, remove blackheads, and more. This is thanks to its pH-altering properties. Basically, it is an alkaline substance that can neutralize acids (like sour milk or rancid butter) and bases (like spoiled fish).

Baking powder is a multitasking beauty staple, but you can get more benefits by using it as a facial scrub. It can exfoliate your skin, remove oil from your scalp, and reduce itching caused by sunburns.

To make a face scrub, mix one part baking soda with three parts water and apply it to your skin. Then rinse it off. You can also use it as a bath treatment for itchy and irritated skin. To do this, add a half-cup of baking soda to your bath water.

Baking soda can also help you deodorize and freshen up your hair. It can absorb excess oil and eliminate foul odors. It can also be used as a substitute for chemical-based dry shampoos. To use it, simply sprinkle a small amount of the powder on your hair and rub it in.

Another use for baking soda is to treat razor bumps and burns. It can be applied as a paste to soothe skin that is itching, burning, or red. This is because baking soda is a natural exfoliator and helps get rid of dead skin cells. However, it’s important to note that over-exfoliating can be very damaging.

Oatmeal

The humble oat is a skin-loving superfood. Its many properties help treat a range of skincare woes, from dry and sensitive skin to irritated and acne-prone skin. Oats are also full of saponins, which make them a natural cleanser by gently removing dirt and oil from your pores. This makes oatmeal a great addition to any clean beauty routine.

To use oats in your skincare regimen, look for products with oat extract, which is made by milling the seeds of the oat plant (also called Avena Sativa) and combining them with water or alcohol. You can also try a gentle oatmeal face wash, which is great for dry and irritated skin. Oats can also be found in scrubs and exfoliants that will slough away dead skin cells and leave your skin feeling soft and smooth.

Oatmeal can also be used as a spot treatment to soothe itchy skin. Simply mix together equal parts of powdered oatmeal and water until it has a paste-like texture, then apply it to the itchy area and leave on for 10-15 minutes. Rinse it off and follow with your favorite moisturizer.

You can also use oatmeal to create a soothing facial mask. Mix one tablespoon of oatmeal and sugar with a little water until it has a scrub-like consistency, then rub it all over your face in a circular motion. After rinsing it off, your skin will feel soft and smooth.

Colloidal oatmeal is another great way to add oats to your clean beauty routine. It can be used to create a soothing and moisturizing face wash or body wash, and it helps to soothe itchy skin, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps to reduce the appearance of pores and contains vitamin E, which is known for its skin-healthy benefits.

You can buy colloidal oatmeal at most health and beauty stores, but you can also make your own using home ingredients. Just grind up some whole steel-cut oats in a blender or food processor until they have a powdery consistency, then combine it with enough water to form a paste. Apply the mixture to your face and neck, avoiding your eyes and lips, and leave it on for about 15 minutes before rinsing it off.

Olive oil

Olive oil has long been a staple in the kitchen, but it can also add a dose of shine to your hair and skin. It’s a moisturizing ingredient that can be used in place of traditional lotion, but some derms warn against slathering it on your face, because it may clog pores. To avoid greasy skin, use only a few drops of the product and pat your skin dry afterward. The product can also be mixed with sugar or salt to make a homemade scrub for exfoliating the skin.

Aside from moisturizing the skin, olive oil can be used to soften and nourish both hair and nails. The oil contains fatty acids that can help with the growth of strong, healthy tresses. It also has antioxidants and other nutrients that can keep your skin healthy. You can apply it directly to your scalp or hair, but it’s best to purchase a shampoo or conditioner that contains the oil.

According to a study published in the journal Dermatology, olive oil can be effective in treating eczema. The oil is a good moisturizer and contains vitamin A, which helps to repair damaged skin. Additionally, it can be used to soothe irritation and redness caused by sunburns. The oil can be used on the entire body, but it is especially helpful for dry areas of skin.

Another benefit of using olive oil is that it can prevent the formation of blackheads. However, this is only true if you’re using a quality oil. It’s important to check the expiration date and make sure the bottle hasn’t been contaminated during transportation. Moreover, it’s essential to test the product on a small area of your skin before you start using it regularly.

Aside from using it as a moisturizer, you can also use it to remove makeup and soften ear wax. A drop of olive oil can help break down water-resistant substances, such as mascara and eyeliner, so that they can be easily wiped away with a cleanser. It’s recommended to use a mild, fragrance-free olive oil for this purpose.

Cold water

While it may seem like a simple thing, the temperature of water used during cleansing can make a big difference in your skin. Cold water is best for normal skin, while hot water can irritate it and cause it to become dry or flaky. It’s also important to use gentle cleansers and avoid rubbing or scrubbing the face too hard.

Cold water can act as a natural astringent, which can tighten pores and reduce fine lines. It also helps to calm and soothe irritated skin by reducing redness and inflammation. In addition, it can help to regulate oil levels and prevent acne breakouts. It is also good for removing makeup and other impurities from the skin. It can also help to reduce puffiness and dark circles under the eyes. Finally, it can also help to boost circulation, which can give the skin a healthy glow.

There are a few drawbacks to washing with cold water, however. First of all, it can be uncomfortable and unpleasant, especially if you have sensitive skin. In addition, it can be difficult to get all of the dirt and makeup off with cold water.

Cold water is also not the best for people with acne or other skin conditions, as it can aggravate them. It’s important to experiment with different temperatures of water and find the one that works best for your skin. Also, it’s a good idea to wash your face at different times of the day, and not just in the morning. Washing the face too often can irritate it and lead to dryness and inflammation. It’s also a good idea to use a variety of cleansers to keep your face looking and feeling its best.