5 Ways to Naturally Treat Skin Conditions

For the last seven years our son has been in and out of the pool. A lot. He swims competitively and with his medals comes dry skin.

So that got me thinking: What is the best way to deal with the dryness?

Treating sensitive skin naturally calls for gentle, soothing and non-irritating ingredients to minimize inflammation and maintain the skin's natural balance. Dry skin can be the result of weather conditions, harsh soaps or detergents or long, hot showers and, in the case of my son, chlorinated pools.

While there’s plenty of creams, gels, lotions and ointments to choose from, I prefer the most natural approach. I have found these remedies and changes of routine prove effective in treating inflammation and breakouts linked to acne, irritated skin and other skin conditions.

Home Antidotes

Tea tree oil is anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, which can reduce the swelling and redness of acne in addition to treat the source of an outbreak: bacteria. Look for body washes with tea tree oi like Sade Baron, or apply the essential oil directly on affected areas. Jojoba oil like Hoba Care, also helps repair damaged skin and reduce inflammation. To use either oil, place a few drops on a cotton pad and apply to the irritated skin.

Aloe vera, another anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, is a viable alternative to preventing acne and moisturizing sensitive skin. The plant-derived gel is best used after twice-daily washing.

Honey has proven effective in treating skin conditions thanks to its antioxidants that help clear clogged pores. Be sure to test a small area of the skin first to check for an allergic reaction. For severe cases of acne and other skin issues, experts recommend consulting a dermatologist.

Natural exfoliators help prevent acne but avoid them once a breakout occurs. To make your own, mix equal parts brown sugar and raw honey with a dollop of olive oil.

To moisturize dry or irritated skin, look for products that contain natural ingredients such as argan oil, neem oil, shea butter or tamanu oil. Our absolutely favorite shea butter is Eu'Genia Shea.

Keep it Clean

Acne is the result of blocked pores that become inflamed, resulting in redness, blackheads, whiteheads and pimples, while most other skin conditions are due to irritants that can range from perfumes to harsh weather conditions to itchy fabrics. Adult acne is often the result of diet, hair and skin products, hormones and stress and should be treated similarly.

Before training and exercise, remove all makeup. Wear clean gear and wash clothing after every workout. Shower and shampoo soon after with mild fragrance-free, oil-free cleansers. In fact, skin experts suggest avoiding oil-based skincare and hair products, cosmetics, sunscreen and moisturizers altogether. Skip the hot water and take it down a few degrees; heat and humidity are common skin irritants in and out of the shower.

Dietary Needs

When it comes to acne, especially teen acne, many think of chocolate and fried fare. While experts agree these foods can lead to clogged pores, they’re not the only culprits.

Fill up on fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains and beans and reduce high-glycemic foods such as candy, sugary drinks, white rice and low-fiber cereal.

Dry skin is thirsty so hydrate by drinking plenty of water, staying out of the sun, avoiding alcohol and limiting showers and baths to less than 10 minutes. Use mild soap-free cleansers and avoid products that contain alcohol or perfumes. Dry skin may be a symptom of a larger issue so if it persists, consult a medical professional.

Change of Habit

While most detergents freshen laundry, fragrance-free, natural products do the job without irritating the skin. Dryer sheets, which contain chemicals, can also inflame the skin so go for an all-natural alternative such as LooHoo Wool Dryer Balls that also speeds up dryer time. LooHoo recently launched wool-free Dryer Gems made with upcycled fabric and stuffed with bamboo—a vegan option that’s gentle on all skin types.

Skin experts also suggest, just relax! It may sound easier said than done but getting plenty of sleep and reducing stress is good for your skin. While it may not cause acne, stress can certainly prolong or intensify skin conditions that include psoriasis, eczema and even hair loss, according to Harvard Health Publishing. Focus on a well-balanced diet and introduce exercise such as yoga and meditation into your daily routine to care for your mind, body, spirit—and skin.

Relieve the Itch

While it may be tempting, itching dry skin should be avoided. Instead, slather on the moisturizer or cream such as Marin Skincare or soothe skin with a cold compress. For more tips on addressing dry skin, check out this blog post.