Dried flowers have been cherished for centuries for their beauty and fragrance, but did you know they also offer numerous benefits for the skin? In this article, we'll explore the wonders of dried flowers for achieving radiant skin and effective methods for their usage.
1. THE BEAUTY BENEFITS OF DRIED FLOWERS
Dried flowers are rich in various nutrients that can support the skin health and radiance. Some of the most common dried flowers used for skincare are:
- Lavender: Lavender is a purple flower that has a soothing and calming scent. Lavender is rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation, heal wounds, and prevent infections. Lavender can also help balance the oil production, tone the skin, and fight acne and wrinkles.
- Chamomile: Chamomile is a yellow flower that has a sweet and floral scent. Chamomile is rich in vitamin B, vitamin C, and antioxidants, which can help soothe irritation, redness, and itching. Chamomile can also help brighten the skin, fade scars, and reduce puffiness and dark circles.
- Rose: Rose is a red flower that has a romantic and elegant scent. Rose is rich in vitamin C, vitamin E, and antioxidants, which can help hydrate, nourish, and rejuvenate the skin. Rose can also help improve the skin elasticity, texture, and complexion, and prevent signs of aging.
- Calendula: Calendula is an orange flower that has a warm and spicy scent. Calendula is rich in vitamin A, vitamin E, and antioxidants, which can help heal, protect, and regenerate the skin. Calendula can also help stimulate the collagen production, reduce inflammation, and treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
These are just some of the dried flowers that can benefit the skin. By using dried flowers, women can enjoy the natural and gentle skincare that can enhance their skin beauty.
2. DIY FACIAL STEAMS WITH DRIED FLOWERS
One of the easiest and most effective ways to use dried flowers for the skin is to create DIY facial steams. Facial steams are a simple and relaxing way to cleanse the pores, improve the blood circulation, and enhance the skin tone. Facial steams can also help prepare the skin for further treatments, such as masks, serums, and moisturizers. Here is how to create DIY facial steams with dried flowers:
- Choose your dried flowers according to your skin type and needs. For example, lavender for oily and acne-prone skin, chamomile for sensitive and irritated skin, rose for dry and mature skin, and calendula for damaged and inflamed skin.
- Boil some water in a pot and add a handful of your chosen dried flowers. Let it simmer for a few minutes and then turn off the heat.
- Transfer the pot to a comfortable place and cover your head with a towel. Lean over the pot and let the steam touch your face. Breathe deeply and enjoy the aroma and the warmth of the steam. Do this for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the steam cools down.
- Rinse your face with cold water and pat it dry. Apply your favorite toner, serum, and moisturizer to lock in the moisture and the nutrients.
You can do this once or twice a week to keep your skin clean, fresh, and glowing.
3. INFUSING SKINCARE PRODUCTS WITH DRIED FLOWERS
Another way to use dried flowers for the skin is to infuse them into your skincare products, such as oils, toners, and creams. Infusing skincare products with dried flowers can help enhance their nourishing and soothing properties, as well as their scent and appearance. Here is how to infuse skincare products with dried flowers:
- Choose your skincare product and your dried flowers according to your skin type and needs. For example, almond oil and lavender for oily and acne-prone skin, rose water and chamomile for sensitive and irritated skin, shea butter and rose for dry and mature skin, and coconut oil and calendula for damaged and inflamed skin.
- Fill a glass jar with your chosen dried flowers and pour your skincare product over them. Make sure the flowers are completely submerged and the jar is tightly sealed.
- Place the jar in a sunny and warm place, such as a windowsill, and let it infuse for at least two weeks. Shake the jar every day to mix the ingredients.
- Strain the infused product and discard the flowers. Transfer the product to a clean and dry container and store it in a cool and dark place.
- Use your infused product as you normally would, or add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for extra benefits and fragrance.
You can infuse any skincare product with dried flowers, as long as they are compatible and safe for your skin. You can also experiment with different combinations of dried flowers and skincare products to create your own personalized and natural skincare.
4. DRIED FLOWER FACE MASKS FOR GLOWING SKIN
One of the most fun and creative ways to use dried flowers for the skin is to make dried flower face masks. Face masks are a great way to pamper your skin and address specific skin concerns, such as hydration, acne, and inflammation. Face masks can also help remove the impurities, exfoliate the dead skin cells, and brighten the skin. Here is how to make dried flower face masks for glowing skin:
- Choose your dried flowers and your base ingredient according to your skin type and needs. For example, lavender and yogurt for oily and acne-prone skin, chamomile and honey for sensitive and irritated skin, rose and milk for dry and mature skin, and calendula and oatmeal for damaged and inflamed skin.
- Grind your dried flowers into a fine powder using a blender, a coffee grinder, or a mortar and pestle. You can also buy ready-made dried flower powders from online or local stores.
- Mix your dried flower powder and your base ingredient in a small bowl to form a smooth and thick paste. You can also add other ingredients, such as lemon juice, egg white, or aloe vera gel, to enhance the effects and the consistency of the mask.
- Apply the mask to your clean and dry face, avoiding the eye and mouth area. Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes, or until it dries. Rinse it off with warm water and pat your face dry. Apply your favorite toner, serum, and moisturizer to complete the skincare routine.
You can make and use dried flower face masks once or twice a week to keep your skin healthy and radiant.
5. INCORPORATING DRIED FLOWERS INTO BATH RITUALS
The last but not the least way to use dried flowers for the skin is to incorporate them into your bath rituals. Bath rituals are a wonderful way to relax your body and mind, as well as your skin and senses. Bath rituals can also help hydrate, detoxify, and aromatize your skin, making it more soft and smooth. Here is how to incorporate dried flowers into your bath rituals:
- Choose your dried flowers and your bath additive according to your mood and needs. For example, lavender and epsom salt for relaxation and stress relief, chamomile and baking soda for soothing and healing, rose and milk for nourishment and romance, and calendula and apple cider vinegar for cleansing and refreshing.
- Fill your bathtub with warm water and add your bath additive. Stir well to dissolve and mix the ingredients.
- Sprinkle your dried flowers over the water or place them in a muslin bag and hang it under the faucet. You can also add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for extra benefits and fragrance.
- Soak in the bath for 20 to 30 minutes, or as long as you like. Breathe deeply and enjoy the aroma and the sensation of the water and the flowers. You can also listen to some relaxing music, read a book, or meditate to enhance the experience.
- Rinse your body with clean water and pat it dry. Apply your favorite body lotion or oil to moisturize and nourish your skin.
You can incorporate dried flowers into your bath rituals as often as you like, or as a special treat for yourself or your loved ones. Dried flowers can make your bath time more enjoyable and beneficial for your skin and senses.
CONCLUSION
With their potent botanical properties and versatility, dried flowers are a delightful addition to any skincare routine. Whether used in facial steams, infused into skincare products, or incorporated into bath rituals, these floral wonders can help you achieve and maintain radiant, glowing skin naturally.