Reducing the appearance of acne often leads people down a path of heavy chemical use and potentially damaging skin while trying to repair it. When visiting a skin care professional, one of the most common treatment ingredients is salicylic acid. Many do not know that nature provides access to this in a beautiful form... flowers.
Bright orange marigolds (Calendula officinalis) contains salicylic acid - used in many over-the-counter acne treatments - plus anti-inflammatory and antiseptic substances, which make it a favorite for skin conditions of many kinds. If used over a period of weeks, this gel should significantly alleviate the appearance of acne and reduce discomfort.
Marigold, Lavender, and Rose Geranium Gel
10 rose geranium flowers, with leaves and stems
8 marigold (Calendula officinalis flowers)
20 lavender flowerheads
3/4 cup (200 ml) water
1 packet vegetable gelatin
5 tsp vodka
20 drops tea tree oil
1. Roughly chop the flowers, leaves, and stems of the rose geraniums and place with the marigold flowers and lavender flowerheads in a large glass bowl.
2. Bring the water to a boil and pour it over the flowers to make an infusion. Leave to infuse for 10 minutes or until the water has taken on the color of the flowers. Place the infusion, including the plant material, into a blender and mix. Strain the mixture through a piece of cheesecloth into a clean bowl.
3. In another bowl, dissolve the gelatin in 2 tbsp of cold water. Gradually add the flower infusion, stirring to separate lumps. Add the vodka and tea tree oil, stirring until a gel is formed. Using a funnel, pour into a jar with a pump dispenser.
Use: Apply to affected areas twice a day or as frequently as needed.
Storage: Keeps in the refrigerator for up to 6 weeks.
Skin care treatments, especially those involving the use of salicylic acid can be costly and need to be continued over time. It is a wise investment to take the time to create your own natural remedy. Being able to track continual improvements in your skins overall condition without the high costs or rigid appointment schedule can make a normally daunting task a bit more enjoyable.
Some helpful hints for tracking your process:
- use a camera. Take a picture each day so that you have a record of your results. Your goal is improving over time. Having a visual reference will make this easier to see.
- journal. Take notes to help you remember what you are doing on a daily basis. Keeping track of recipe adjustments, routines and helpful reminders.
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