Chamomile Skin Care for Sensitive Skin
Chamomile for Your Skin
It is no secret that a cup of chamomile tea has a soft, calming effect on the mind and body. What about using chamomile for skin care? With excellent anti-inflammatory properties, this herb can sooth inflammations, benefiting a range of skin conditions, from dry to mature. Rich in volatile oils, chamomile has antiseptic properties, making it useful for destroying any bacteria on the skin. It also is a vulnerary, encouraging the natural healing process, and the flowers and leaves contain nutrients, including B vitamins and vitamin C.
Quelling inflammation, gently cleansing, and promoting new, healthy growth, while also having the sweet, subtle scent of apple blossoms, chamomile can be used in skin care products for sensitive skin. There are many excellent products on the market that may use chamomile as an ingredient. You can also make homemade skin treatments yourself using this beneficial herb.
Homemade Recipes
Both the dried herb and the essential oil can be used for the beneficial properties of chamomile for the skin. Try any of the following recipes yourself for a homemade herbal steam treatment, a natural astringent, and a nourishing face mask made with chamomile.
For a chamomile steam cleanse use:
- 2 tablespoons dried chamomile blossoms
- 1 tablespoon dried lavender
- 2 quarts of clean water
You can simmer all ingredients in a glass pot, or simply add the chamomile and lavender to a glass bowl and then pour boiling water over the herbs. Place the infusion on a table where you can sit comfortably with your head close to the steam. Place a towel over your head to capture the steam. Allow the herbal steam to open pores and cleanse your skin for about ten minutes. When you are finished gently rinse with cool water and pat dry. Apply a gentle moisturizer.
For a chamomile toner use:
- 1 tablespoon witch hazel
- 1 tablespoon chamomile tea, cooled
To make this homemade toner, first prepare a chamomile infusion. Use a tea bag or steep one teaspoon of the dried herb in one-half cup of
boiling water. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Blend equal parts of the witch hazel and chamomile infusion in a small bowl. Dab on face after cleansing with a clean cloth or cotton ball.
For a homemade chamomile mask:
- 1/2 cup cubed fresh papaya
- 1 teaspoon jojoba oil
- 3 drops chamomile essential oil
Blend the papaya and oils in the blender until smooth. Move to a bowl and then smear a thin layer on the face and neck. Relax for about twenty minutes before washing off.
Tips for Use
A gentle, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial herb, using chamomile for skin care for sensitive skin is a great way to enjoy the benefits of natural ingredients for cosmetic purposes. Try using the cleansing steam treatment once a week to refresh the skin and remove impurities. Use the homemade toner on a daily basis in place of a harsh, chemical astringent that may irritate sensitive skin. Try the nourishing mask once a week. Chamomile is safe for general use, but it should be avoided if you have an allergy to ragweed.
References and Image Credits
Balch, Phyllis A. “Prescription for Nutritional Healing.” Fourth Edition (Penguin Books, 2006).
Hoffmann, David. “The Complete Illustrated Holistic Herbal: A Safe and Practical Guide to Making and Using Herbal Remedies.” (Element Books, 1996).
photo by Stevie B
photo by Sydney G
Disclaimer
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