the natural face

Let’s preface this by saying – I have extremely sensitive skin. Because of this, once I find a product regimen that doesn’t dry my skin or cause breakouts, I’m not quick to stray. As far as face wash goes, for years I was hooked on an alternating system of Dr. Hauschka Cleansing Cream and MyChelle Dermaceuticals Fruit Enzyme Scrub. Then, one day when the Hauschka was empty, an amber jar of ‘cleansing powder’ appeared in its place (I was not the primary product-purchaser in the household at the time) and I freaked out. My first thought was… WHAT??… Where’s my Cleansing Cream? and, How on earth am I supposed to clean my face with POWDER?? But I gave it a chance and was surprised to discover that the ‘new stuff’ was phenomenal. Although, in a house with two women, spending $20 a pop on a 6 oz jar of powder that disappeared in less than two weeks, was bit of an expenditure. Luckily, the ingredients were clearly printed on the label, and with a little experiment and some help from our friend at the beauty counter at Integral Yoga and Natural Foods, we came up with the magic formula. The ingredients are simple: Organic Oat Flour, Lavender and Sweet Orange essential oils. Add one cup of flour, 10 drops of Sweet Orange and 10 drops of Lavender oil to a lidded container, close the lid tightly then shake vigorously!! Like jumping up-and-down kinda shaking. And wall-ah — you’re done. I keep my magic powder in a glass jar in the bathroom with a little scoop. To use, simply place a small mound (see top pic) in your hand, add water, work into a paste and apply to your face as you would any other cleansing product. I’ve been using this formula for two-plus years and I’m extremely satisfied. (**I do still alternate with the MyChelle scrub once every two or three days).