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Page 8
| Consider using a humidifier in your bedroom, especially during the winter months when the air becomes very dry because of indoor heating. Plants or an aquarium are also very moisturizing. |
| Oily Skin |
| Stress can cause the skin to become more oily. Avoid fatty foods such as fried foods, ice cream and potato chips as they may aggravate oily skin. A deficiency of vitamins B2 and B6 can also contribute to excessive oiliness. If using makeup, use only water-based products rather than oil base. Essential oils such as geranium, lavender, lemon and tea tree oil can be used to help regulate the sebaceous glands. These oils need to be diluted. A facial spray with lemon balm essential oil can help close the pores. (See recipe for Facial Spritzer on page 81.) Witch hazel can also be applied after cleansing. Remember that one of the benefits of oily skin is that it is slower to age! |
| Pleasures of the Bath |
| Soaking in a warm fragrant tub is a favorite delight of many wise and happy people. It can be time to retreat, reflect and refresh. Baths can also be an opportunity to merge with your herbs of choice. Since we don't want to waste resources, it's not necessary to fill the tub too high; if you use natural products, you can even collect some of the grey bath water to water your houseplants or garden. |
| Baths before bed help to induce sleep. However, if you take a bath during the day and expect to get any work done, make it a cool, short bath and include energizing herbs and oils. A bath after you come home from work may melt the stresses of a busy day. |
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