How to Make Homemade Skincare Products in the Winter

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Cold winds and winter chill can take a toll on your skin, leaving it dull and dry. Chapped, irritated skin isn't only painful and unsightly, it's more susceptible to the sun's damaging UV rays. Take extra special care of your skin and keep it fresh and well-hydrated during the winter with a gentle homemade scrub, facial mask and toner made of healthy, natural ingredients.

Winter Moisturizing Scrub

Grind 1 cup of flaxseed or sunflower seeds in a blender or a coffee grinder. The seeds should be the consistency of coarse sand.

Place the ground seeds in a mixing bowl and stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half. Mix well.

Wash your face and spread the scrub over your damp skin. Massage the scrub gently into your skin for one minute, and then rinse your face with warm water. Pat your skin dry with a soft towel.

Papaya Moisturizing Mask

Peel and seed one ripe papaya. Place the papaya in a bowl and mash it with a fork until all lumps disappear. Alternately, substitute one ripe avocado for the papaya.

Mash in 1 teaspoon olive oil. Spread the mixture over your clean neck and face.

Allow the mixture to remain for 15 to 20 minutes. Then rinse your face with warm water. Finish by applying your favorite moisturizer.

Aloe Skin Toner

Place 1/2 cup aloe vera gel in a plastic bottle. Add 1 cup distilled water.

Add eight to 10 drops of your choice of essential oil. Chamomile, rosemary, rose, lavender, ginger, sweet orange, jasmine and geranium are all beneficial for dry skin.

Shake the mixture well. Clean and refresh your face by applying the mixture with a cotton ball after cleansing your face. Alternatively, place the toner in a spray bottle and spray your face lightly as needed throughout the day.