I remember being at my sister's house and she was using one of those microdermabrasion kits -- you know the one that vibrates (that you use on your face). I actually used to own one myself. Since I had thrown out almost all of my beauty products (and I had an embarrassingly large amount of them), I'd been thinking about what to do about my acne scarring (none of those expensive products worked). My day to day acne was clearing up, but unfortunately after years of bad skin, it left it's mark behind. I knew that microdermabrasion was typically used to treat acne scarring (as well as wrinkles, discoloring, and sun damage). Usually this procedure is done by an esthetician or dermatologist with micro-fine abrasive crystals in order to remove the outer-most layer of dead skin cells. But it's not cheap. (Exfoliation is good for your skin even if you don't have acne scars.)
So, I started to research natural ways to do this at home.
The next day, I put baking soda on my face.
Since then, I've learned more about it. Baking soda is a very effective, natural and gentle abrasive for removing dead skin cells (not to mention cheap!). Though I've made other changes to my skin care, my scarring has improved since using this simple baking soda exfoliation once a week. It works very well at slouching off dead skin and leaves your skin smooth. One thing to remember is that because baking soda is alkaline, you will need to restore the natural PH of the skin. That is where the AVC toner comes in.
Okay, I'm hoping this is new for someone reading this...so who wants to try this? (Or if you do this already, what were your results?)
*If this is new for you, keep in mind that results may vary depending on skin type.*
Baking Soda Microdermabrasion
1 tbsp baking soda
1-2 tsp water
Make a slightly soupy paste with the baking soda and water. You can do this in a small glass dish or in your hand. (I use my hand. I add baking soda and using my fingertips on my other hand, I drip water over the baking soda until it's enough to make a paste.)
Apply to a clean face and use gentle circular motions. (You do not want apply too much pressure.) Exfoliate the entire face (avoiding the eye area), neck and down to the chest if desired. Do this for 3-5 minutes. Rinse with warm water, follow with a toner to balance the PH of your skin. Moisturize if desired.
This is helpful for dry skin, acne scars, and blackheads.
Optional essential oil: Add a drop or two of lavender essential oil to your microdermabrasion for it's soothing properties. It is also helpful for wrinkles and acne. You can also replace the water with a facial oil, like sweet almond oil or aloe vera gel.
Notes:
- It's important to use a pH-balancing toner, preferably homemade like this one, to balance the PH of the skin.
- I wouldn't recommend using this more than two times a week or it may dry out your skin. I use it once every few weeks, sometimes just once a month. Try once a week for oily, dry, or normal skin. Once or twice a month for sensitive skin.
- You can also do this as a mask and leave on for 20 minutes. Then gently scrub as you rinse. Add honey for it's antibacterial properties and for moisturizing. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon or orange juice for brightening.
More Beauty Recipes:
- Apple Cider Vinegar Facial Toner
- Four Simple Foot Baths
- Lavender Vanilla Body Scrub
- Peppermint and Lavender Foot Scrub
- Single-Use Exfoliating Body Scrub
- Baking Soda Air Freshener Jars
- Remedies for Insect Bites and Stings
- Herbal Dream Pillows
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- Growing Herbs in Mason Jars
- Storage for Longer-Lasting Herbs
- All About Freezing Citrus
****Disclaimer: I am not a doctor or other healthcare professional. This is informational purposes only. The content is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please contact your doctor, dietitian, or other healthcare professional regarding any medical condition or treatment and before making any dietary, health, or lifestyle changes.****
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