CLARIFYING TREATMENTS

In recent years, cosmetic scientists have discovered that important skin clarifying factors, known as as alpha-hydroxy and beta-hydroxy acids, are available in fruits and vegetables.

These biological substances are of great interest in skincare, as in low concentrations, they moisturize the skin and make it pliable, while in higher concentrations, they provide an exfoliating and peeling effect, clarifying and smoothing the complexion.

Most fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes and chlorophyll. Enzymes are important in peeling of dead skin cells while chlorophyll is a potent cleanser, tonic and cell stimulator. Carrot and green juices are high in beta-carotene (pro-vitamin A) while sprout juices contain high amounts of Vitamin B complex. All fresh juices are excellent sources of Vitamin C, and celery, beet and green juices contain anti-oxidant Vitamin E.

Recent studies have shown that the epidermis is able to absorb vitamins and nutrients from topically applied liquid juice solutions, greatly benefiting the strength, elasticity and general appearance of the skin. Facial formulas of olden days utilized these knowledge, and fresh fruits and vegetables were often included in recipes.

For best results, if you are truly seeking improvements in your skins' condition, drinking them often as well as using them in face washes. You can make this effective with a little time, pure acid alpha hydroxy acid plant juice at home and all natural sources to use in your facial treatments.


FRESH JUICES FOR FACIAL TREATMENTS BY SKIN TYPE
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For dry and dehydrated skin :

• canteloupe
• honeydew melon
• peach
• nectarine
• pear
• papaya
• apple
• watermelon
• black cherry
• mango

For normal skin :

• apple
• cucumber
• watermelon
• strawberry
• papaya
• sweet citrus, eg. mandarin
• carrot
• pineapple
• grape

For oily or problem skin :

• bitter greens eg. dandelion, watercress
• cabbage
• acidic fruits eg. grapefruit, lemon
• cranberry
• pineapple
• tomato
• celery
• spinach

For trouble and acneic skin :

• acidic citrus eg. lemon, lime
• bitter greens eg. dandelion, watercress
• super greens eg. wheatgrass, barley shoots
• radish
• ginger
• onion
• garlic

ALPHA HYDROXY ACID CLARIFYING FACIAL LIQUID

Use this juice directly to exfoliate the skin, or mix with water to make a mild clarifying toner.

• 1 large ripe grapefruit, peeled
• 1 large green apple, peeled and cored
• 1 large ripe red tomato
• 1/2 tsp grapefruit seed extract

Wash the fruits and chop them into large pieces. Place all the above fruits in the electric juicer, collecting the mixed juices in a measuring cup. Filter the juice through a filter, and add the grapefruit seed extract. Pour into a glass bottle and refrigerate for use as needed.

To use, saturate cotton balls and apply over face and neck, avoiding eye area and lips. After five minutes, splash the skin clean with warm water.

Juicy fruits have a high purified liquid content and bioenergetic factors which make them perfect for washing the skin. Many different skin problems can benefit from a regular fruit juice 'wash.' Selet juices appropriate to your skin type (refer to the chart above). Use an electric juicer to make the fresher juices for greatest effectiveness.

WATERMELON AND CUCUMBER CLARIFYING TONER

A wonderfully refreshing, cooling liquid for all skin types. The two juices combined with the slightly astringent witch hazel extract and the hint of peppermint have a cleansing, energizing effect on the skin.

• 1 small cucumber, cut in 1" sections
• 1 segment ripe watermelon
• 2 tbsp witch hazel extract
• 2 tbsp mineral water
• 1 drop peppermint Pure Essential Oil

Squeeze the juice from the ripe fruits using lemon squeezer. Strain through a sieve or cloth into a small bowl. Add the witch hazel and stir. Use cotton pads to dampen the face and neck, saturating the skin with the solution.

For an intensive clarifying treatment, cut a piece of cheesecloth the size of your face, with openings for nose and mouth. Saturate the cheesecloth with the liquid and lay it over your face for five minutes. Finish by splashing the skin clean with warm water and drying gently with a clean towel.

During hot day, this mixture will keep your skin refreshed and hydrated, especially if you add a couple of ice cubes to the toner before applying to your skin. This mixture is best used fresh, but if you want to keep it for a short time in the refrigerator, add one tablespoon of unflavoured vodka to each four ounces of juice.