بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

Natural Products for Skin and Hair Care

Topics of the Lecture Common problems of skin and hair. Soothing and moisturizing natural agents Anti-acne natural compounds. Anti-aging natural compounds. Some home-made facial masks for instant natural glow. Anti-dandruff natural compounds. Natural products for strengthening hair. Natural products’ recipes for shiny & healthy hair.

The Human Skin and Hair The skin is the largest organ of the human body. It functions as the primary protective, temperature-regulator & sensory organ of the body. The hair also plays a very important role in protecting the skull in addition of being the crown of our beauty. Hence comes the importance of the skin and hair care.

Anatomy of the Human Skin Being a peripheral organ the skin requires both an internal and external nutrition.

Common Problems of the Skin & Hair Aging of the skin begins after 30 years old. It is manifested by dryness, getting wrinkles, pigmentation, discoloration, open pores, black heads, and uneven tone. Acne constitutes a major problem for some people at the age of 15-30 years old. Common problems of the hair are dandruff & falling. Skin and hair problems may be speeded by the following factors: Excessive exposure to the sun. Environmental pollution. Loss of the moisture of the skin beginning at the age of 30. Hard water. Bacteria & fungi.

Important Vitamins for Healthy Skin Vitamins A, E & C: These vitamins are potent antioxidants that works as a natural preservative system necessary for tissue repair & maintenance of a healthy skin, assist formation of new skin cells & treatment of skin disorders. Dietary sources are carrots, tomatoes, pepper, spinach, broccoli, lettuce, apricots, citrus and many other fresh vegetables & fruits Vitamin B: Vitamin B group is essential for the nerves & is also important for producing a beautiful skin. It can be found in the yeast extract, meat, liver, bran & dates

I) Soothing and Moisturizing Natural Agents Glycerin: made of vegetable source (corn) is an emollient and excellent humectant that moisturizes the skin. Tomatoes: It contains lycopene, an anti-oxidant that protects the skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun that are damaging to the skin. It is also a rich source of vitamin C.

These Fixed Oils Have Soothing Effect On The Skin Olive oil: It has been ranked among the top nutrition provider. It has been widely used in soaps making it mild and friendly to the skin. It helps moisturizing the skin. Wheat germ oil: Highly nutritive antioxidant oil rich in vitamin E, penetrates well to prevent moisture loss.

Soothing and Moisturizing Natural Oils Palm Oil: It contains tocotrienols which are essential part of vitamin E complex that penetrates the deepest layers of the skin providing an excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect.

These Fixed Oils Have Soothing Effect On The Skin Coconut oil, also known as coconut butter, is a tropical oil with many applications. It is extracted from copra (the dried meat, or kernel, of the coconut). Coconut oil is excellent as a skin moisturizer and softener.

These Fixed Oils Have Soothing Effect On The Skin Soy bean oil: Soy is recently found to reduce skin discoloration and slow hair growth. Studies revealed that it could reduce the appearance of redness caused by acne and sun exposure. Soy is an antioxidant, and can protect the skin from the UV rays. Arachis Oil: It consists mainly of glycerides of linoleic and linoleic acids. It has an emollient effect on the skin and is incorporated in many creams and bath oils.

These Fixed Oils Have Soothing Effect On The Skin Castor oil: Castor oil penetrates deep into the skin & contains unsaturated fatty acids ( linoleic & linolenic) that protects the skin. Almond Oil: The sweet almond oil is obtained from the dried kernel of the plant. This oil has been used to lubricate the skin during a massage session, being an effective emollient. It is rich in unsaturated fats and essential fatty acids which is easily absorbed into the skin. Used to make many natural skin care products, it is very high in omega-3 fatty acids.

These Fixed Oils Have Soothing Effect On The Skin Jojoba Oil: This is derived from jojoba seed. It consists of long-chain wax esters than being triglycerides. It simulates human sebum & is used in many cosmetics as moisturizer and carrier oil.

Soothing and Moisturizing Natural Agents Ginger: It has a warming effect that soothes and relaxes the skin. It has anti-cellulite effect. Licorice: In the early 90s, Japanese scientists isolated certain compounds in licorice that were found useful for skin care, primarily for lightening and soothing skin. Calendula, Marigold: Wonderful soothing herb with anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties .

Aloe Vera: Fresh extract from the inner gel of the leaf supports the moisture balance of the skin. It is incorporated in many cosmetics for soothing, regenerating & moisturizing properties.

II) Anti-Acne Natural Compounds Neem: (An Indian herb) :has been extremely effective in curing acne, eczema and other skin disorders. It has antiviral and germicidal effect. Neem leaves are crushed and applied as a paste to the face for few minutes. Immediate improvement of acne will be seen.

Anti-Acne Basil:( leaves and blossoms) Basil is worshipped in oriental cultures as the purest plant. Even the soil in which it grows becomes so purified that the mud-bath with it treats most of the skin disorders. It is also effective for acne treatment.

Anti-Acne Turmeric,( Curcuma ): It is a complete remedy for infections, injuries and boils. It has a soothing and anti-inflammatory effect.

Anti-Acne Sandalwood: ( the bark of the sandalwood tree): It is an Indian plant that has a very nice fragrance. The bark powder when applied as a paste to the face it imparts a smooth and lustrous look to the skin. In many typical Indian weddings, a thick paste of sandalwood and turmeric is applied to the bride’s skin in the day of her wedding. Sandal wood has also an aphrodisiac properties.

Home-Made Mask for treatment of Acne A combination of Neem leaves, Basil leaves and blossoms, Turmeric and Sandalwood. Equal parts of powdered drugs are made a paste and applied to the face for 15 minutes, then washed with water.

Acne-Free in 3 days 1) Use glycerin-based soap or face wash. 2) Make an exfoliation for the skin using Alpha or Beta-hydroxy acids. 3) Eliminate sugar from your diet. 4) Take enough vitamin C every day and eat vitamin C-rich diet (spinach, broccoli, citrus fruits & even potatoes). 5) Drink plenty of water ( 8-10 glasses a day) 6) Use a good sun-block to protect your skin against sun and harsh weather.

III) Anti-Aging Natural Products Herbal Toner Teas: Chamomile, Rose petals, Chervil are toning herbs. For more astringency add a small amount of white or apple cider vinegar to the herbal teas. Lemon essential oil: reduces sebum production & is beneficial for aging skin. It helps to reduce scars & stretch marks.

Anti-Aging Natural Compounds LUPIN SEED : LUPIN SEED EXTRACT IS SAID TO HAVE THE ABILITY TO INCREASE THE SYNTHESIS OF COLLAGEN TO GIVE SKIN FIRMNESS AND ELASTICITY. LUPIN SEED IS ALSO REPORTED TO HAVE AN ANTI-ACNE EFFECT.

Herbal Bath For Toning the Whole Body Skin Mix the following quantities of the following herbal teas: One cup of chamomile tea. ¼ cup of lavender tea. ¼ cup of lemon peel tea. ½ cup of peppermint tea. ¼ cup of crushed rose hips. ¼ cup of rosemary. ¼ cup of sage. Place the mixture into the bath tub & swill around the water & soak in the bath around 15 minutes.

Home-made Facial Masks for Instant Natural Glow For Normal Skin 1) Avocado Facial Glow: Mash half an avocado & apply it on the face thoroughly everywhere & let it stay till it dry up completely & then wash it off with cold water. 2) Rose water toner: Mix half tablespoon of alum with 50 ml of rose water & 100 ml of glycerin. Store this mixture in the fridge & apply it regularly to tone your skin.

3) Cucumber-Yogurt Facial Mask Make a puree of half a cucumber & one tablespoon yogurt in a blender & apply it on the face evenly. Leave it on the face for 10-15 minutes & then wash it off with cold water. This is a toner mask.

4)Banana-Honey-Yogurt Facial Mask Mash a banana thoroughly & mix it with one teaspoons of honey & two teaspoons yogurt & apply it on the face evenly. Leave it on the face for 10-15 minutes then rinse it with water.

For Dry Skin 1) Egg-Almond Facial Mask This is a very good mask for dry skin. Beat one egg and one teaspoon of almond oil to it , mix thoroughly & apply it on the face evenly. Leave it for about 10-15 minutes. Rinse it off after that with water.

2) Mint Toner First boil few mint leaves then use this mint extract to prevent perspiration. Add few drops of mint extract & half teaspoon of alum in one cup distilled water. Store this mixture in the fridge and apply it twice a day the face with a cotton wool.

For Oily Skin 1) Alcohol & alum Toner: Mix one teaspoon alcohol in one cup distilled water, dissolve in it a half teaspoon of alum. Store in the fridge and apply it with a piece of cotton. 2) Honey & Egg Toner: Beat one egg white and mix it with one teaspoon of honey & one teaspoon of lemon juice. Apply to the face for 15 minutes, then wash with water.

From The Kitchen For Skin Toning 1) Rub a piece of potato allover the face and let it remain for 15 minutes then wash with cold water. 2) Apply mashed strawberries to your face for 15 minutes then rinse with cold water. 3) Corn-meal Facial Mask: Take enough cornmeal which will be required for the face & mix it with water to make a thick tight paste. Apply it to the face in a circular motions. Leave it for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with cold water.

Exfoliation ( Scrubbing ) Masks Blend some pieces of peeled pumpkin with ¼ cup of glycerin and ¼ cup of water. Apply to the face for 20 minutes, then wash it out with water. Pumpkin contains enzymes that gently dissolve dead surface skin cells which enhances cellular turnover. It is also rich in vitamin A. If you have dry skin. Apply olive oil and then scrub with good amount of sugar. Later, wipe the sugar off your face with wet and warm cloth.

Olive Oil Masks * Mix in bowl one egg, one tsp honey, 1/2 tsp olive oil and few drops of rose water. Use this as a mask for dry skin. keep it for 15 minutes, later rinse it off with warm water. Dab it dry. * Make a paste by mixing some mashed apricots and warm olive oil. Apply this paste all over your face and leave it for 15 minutes. Wash it off with water.

IV) Anti-Dandruff Natural compounds Anti-dandruff is an agent that treats dandruff and reduces flakes associated with it. Neem Datura stramonium fruits

V) Natural Products for Strengthening Hair Aloe vera: It contains a substance Aloenin which is a potential stimulant of hair growth. It is an effective hair conditioner without any side effects. It soothes your scalp and regenerates the hair cells. Arnica: It promotes hair growth and provides adequate nutrition to the hair shafts. It is highly effective for treating dandruff problem and prevents further scalp problems.

Natural Products for Strengthening Hair Rosemary: It is one of the effective hair enhancer. This herb nourishes your flaky and dry scalp hence solving your dandruff problem. It slows down premature graying and hair loss. Marigold: This herb is used for giving dull hair a complete healthy look. It is an effective solution for oily hair, fine hair and dry hair. Sage: It is an important herb for proper hair care. This herb is effective in treating scalp infection, dandruff and oily hair problems. It is said to lessen hair loss and restores the hair color.

Natural Products for Strengthening Hair Horsetail: This herb is effective for curing problems of oily hair. It makes your hair strong, sleek, shiny and manageable. It also stimulates hair growth as it enhances scalp circulation. Parsley: It acts as a hair tonic for thin hair.

Natural Products for Strengthening Hair Walnut Oil: It is a rich emollient used to condition and repair damaged hair. Essential oils of ylang ylang & rosemary helps hair growth.

Natural Products for Healthy & Shiny Hair Olive oil: To have a beautiful, dandruff-free shiny hair apply olive oil to the hair & cover it with shower cap for 30 minutes, then shampoo it. It helps to have smooth and shiny nails (immerse your nails in olive oil for 30 minutes.

Henna: NATURAL HENNA POWDER contains natural ingredients that possess medicinal properties which are vital for hair conditioning. Henna prevents premature graying of hair and is used for hair nourishment, making the hair shiny and smooth. Henna plates and protects the hair shaft while acting as a cooling agent for head.

VI) Natural Recipes for Shiny and Healthy Hair 1) Avocado Conditioner Ingredients 1 small jar of mayonnaise 1/2 avocado Directions Peel avocado and remove pit. Mix all ingredients in a medium-sized bowl with your hands. Smooth into hair being careful to work it to the ends. Use shower cap or plastic wrap to seal body heat in. Leave on hair for 20 minutes. For deeper conditioning wrap a hot, damp towel around your head over the plastic. Leave it for 20 minutes then wash it using a suitable shampoo.

Avocado & Coco Nut Conditioner Ingredients One avocado Coconut milk Directions Peel and pit avocado. Mash avocado and slowly add coconut milk until smooth and the consistency of hair conditioner. Work through hair to ends. Rinse after 15 minutes and shampoo.

Jojoba Hot Oil Treatment Ingredients 2 teaspoons jojoba oil 1 teaspoon soybean oil Directions Combine ingredients then warm gently on low heat. Massage mixture into hair. Wrap hair in a hot towel or cover with shower cap or plastic wrap for 15 minutes. Shampoo & rinse out. Recipe may be doubled for very long hair.

Rosemary Hot Oil Treatment Ingredients 1/2 cup of dried rosemary leaves 1/2 cup soybean oil Directions Combine ingredients and heat until warm. Strain through a fine strainer or cheesecloth. Coat the entire head and hair with the oil mixture, working it through to the ends. Wrap hair in plastic wrap and wrap in a warm towel. Leave oil on hair for 15 minutes. Wash hair until oil is completely removed.

Lavender Rosemary Hot Oil Treatment Ingredients 1/2 cup soybean oil 5 drops oil of rosemary 10 drops oil of lavender Directions Mix all ingredients well. Warm slightly and apply the mixture to damp hair. Wrap hair in plastic wrap and apply a hot towel for 20 minutes. Shampoo.

Ginger Dandruff Treatment Ingredients Ginger rhizome 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon lemon juice Directions Squeeze ginger rhizome through press to obtain one tablespoon of juice. Mix all ingredients. Apply to scalp and let dry before shampooing. Repeat two times a week.

Frizz Controller Ingredients 1 small aloe vera leaf Directions Snip off end of leaf and apply aloe vera gel to palm. Work through hair to ends. Leave for 15 minutes then rinse with water.

Aloe Vera: (Aloe barbadensis) Fresh extract from the inner gel of the leaf supports the moisture balance of the skin. It is incorporated in many cosmetics for soothing, regenerating & moisturizing properties.

Rosemary Rinse for Oily Hair Ingredients 1/4 cup dried rosemary Directions Simmer rosemary in 1.5 cups of water. Strain mixture and discard rosemary. Use remaining mixture as the final rinse after shampooing.

General Tips For Healthy Skin and Hair Care Drink plenty of water (8-10 glasses per day). Eat much fresh fruits and vegetables. What goes into your body is reflective on the outside including your hair and skin. Sleep enough time ( 6-8 hours daily). Comb your hair twice a day to increase blood circulation in the sclap. Don’t shampoo your hair more than twice a week. Excess shampooing strips natural oils from the hair. Make few minutes of daily exercise a routine in your life style, not only for healthy skin and hair but also for the whole body and mental health.

Thank you Professor Dr. Madiha Amin Hassan