Words on Wellness: "Caring For Yourself"

     There’s nothing quite like the mist of cool coastal fog on hot, dry summer skin. Naturally hydrating, ocean air infused with seaweed and minerals also nourishes skin which absorbs it easily. No matter what climate you live in, summer demands extra attention to skincare, especially if you are safely socializing outside. While wearing a hat and facemask keeps the sun off your face, the mask itself can leave skin irritated, sometimes causing rashes.

     At the end of the day cleanse your face by opening up the pores with a hot washcloth. For a relaxing moment of facial bliss, soak or run cloth under hot water, wring out and spray with lavender hydrosol then cover your face with it. Take a deep breath and let the day go as you exhale resting your face in your hands. Repeat. With your pores now open, scrub face with a piece of wet grapestone kelp or ‘Turkish washcloth’ (Mastocarpus papillatus). This is a perennial red alga found on rocks in the mid- to high tidal zone, its surface covered with bumpy nobs. One piece can last for many scrubs as you simply let it dry in between. The rough surface of this plant is a perfect mild abrasion for removing dirt and stimulating circulation while softening your skin. A larger piece can be left hanging in the shower for the same scrubbing action.

     If you find your skin red and irritated, rose hydrosol followed by a combination of rosehip seed oil and jojoba is especially soothing. You can also make your own dermal relief spray using equal parts lavender or rose hydrosol or rosewater to aloe vera gel, shake together in a spray bottle and keep in the fridge for misting sunburn or inflamed skin. Try making a flower tea using  one or more fresh flower petals that disinfect and heal skin; calendula, chamomile, yarrow, rose or lavender. Use 1 part petals to 2 parts boiled water, cover and soak petals until cool, then strain and use as a wash or in a spray bottle with aloe or witchhazel. For sun-damaged skin, castor oil is a helpful anti-inflammatory and reduces keratosis. This viscous oil traps water, so works well blended into lotions, other oils and salves. Enjoy homemade or locally produced natural skin care this season.