The cold and dry weather, alternating with some snow, sleet and yuck, turns skin into a dry flaky mess. It’s easy to end up with chapped lips, and cracked heels. While I live in the land where “bag balm” is considered a staple for your nightstand, there are a variety of ways to pamper your skin and avoid having it look like rawhide come spring. If you have a regiment that works for you, take some extra time today to make sure you do it. If you are looking for a change, consider some of these ideas:
• Sugar scrubs: I discovered these one spring after planting. Made my skin feel terrific. While you can purchase these ready made, you can make your own by combing 1 cup of brown sugar with 1/2 cup of olive oil. You can add a little ground ginger, vanilla bean or an essential oil. Mix into a paste and then rub over your body, paying particular attention to your heels and elbows. Wouldn’t recommend this for the face though as it will be too abrasive. You can store the remainder in a jar. However, oils do go rancid, so use the remainder sooner than later.
• Foot soaks: If you have a foot tub great, but if not, fill a dish pan with warm water, add some Epsom salts and soak away. You can add essential oils if you like. Now that your feet are warm and soaked, use a pumice stone to get rid of the nasty dead skin. Next add a good lotion-yes, I do use bag balm when my heels are really cracked-and put on a pair of socks. Ah, now is the time to curl up on the couch with a good book, take a nap, or listen to some relaxing music or sounds.
• Eat Well: A recent study from the Institute for Experimental Dermatology at the University of Witten-Herdecke, found that people who ate five servings a day of fruits and vegetables had improved skin. Some of the fruits and vegetables that are particularly beneficial include: pomegranates, blueberries, strawberries, carrots, artichokes, bananas, broccoli, tomatoes, garlic, kiwi, avocado, and kale. Fish, particularly salmon, is also helpful.
• Drink water
• Get a massage
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