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Herbs, natural oils and Aloe Vera have pretty much replaced all of the commercial products in my arsenal of skin care products. They are easier on my skin [no more peeling and redness], easier on my pocketbook, and much more effective. With the right combination of ingredients, you can have four-star spa quality facial treatments at home several times a week. Here are a few of my favorite White Willow Bark treatments that are formulated to help brighten those dark areas, firm up the sensitive areas around the eyes, and tone your skin which results in an even; smooth complexion.
White Willow Bark is an excellent additive for those with extremely oily skin, and those that have issues with acne, blackheads, whiteheads and inflamed skin. White Willow Bark contains high amounts of Salicin, which is the mother of Salicylic Acid [Salicylic Acid is derived from Salicin, and is used in most skin care products formulated to eliminate acne].
White Willow Bark Facial
Ingredients
4 ounces of distilled water
1 tablespoon of White Willow Bark
1 teaspoon of Kaolin Clay
1/2 teaspoon of honey
To prepare treatment:
Bring water to a boil; add herbs, then remove from heat. Allow herbal infusion to steep for about 10 minutes. Cool. Strain mixture through a fine sieve or cheesecloth. Add Kaolin clay and honey to strained mixture, and mix well.
Instructions for use:
Massage entire amount into the skin and neck area. Allow to sit for about 10-15 minutes, then rinse with cool water.
Recommendations:
Use once weekly for acne prone skin; use bi-weekly as a preventative treatment for normal-combination skin. This facial can be used to clear up body acne as well.
About this formulation:
- White Willow Bark: Acts as a powerful antiseptic, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory agent clearing acne, imperfections and dark spots.
- Red Kaolin Clay: Kaolin Clay helps control oily skin, and the sulfur found in Kaolin Clay helps eliminate acne.<--Don't use Red Kaolin Clay if you have sensitive skin, use White or Rose Kaolin instead.
- Raw Honey: Raw Honey doubles as a uber-moisturizer-extraordinaire and anti-bacterial additive that is very beneficial to your skin!
White Willow Bark Toner
Ingredients
1 Tablespoon White Willow Bark
4 ounces of distilled water
1 teaspoon of Aloe Vera Juice/Gel
To prepare toner:
Bring water to a boil; add herbs, then remove from heat. Allow herbal infusion to steep for about 10 minutes. Cool. Strain mixture through a fine sieve or cheesecloth. Add Aloe Juice {or gel} to the strained liquid. Pour into clean, spray bottle. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
** You can also add 1/2 teaspoon of White Willow Bark extract to your shampoo for those with dandruff, or psoriasis. You can even add 1/4 teaspoon of the extract to your favorite bottle of liquid body wash to combat body acne!
** You can also add 1/2 teaspoon of White Willow Bark extract to your shampoo for those with dandruff, or psoriasis. You can even add 1/4 teaspoon of the extract to your favorite bottle of liquid body wash to combat body acne!
Where do I find these ingredients?
- You can find Red Kaolin Clay & White Willow Bark at select Health Food stores, or; you can find them online here: {Mountain Rose Organics} and here: {From Nature With Love}
- Alternatively, you can find the extract here: {From Nature With Love}
