What is Rose Hip Seed Oil?

Rose hip seed oil is a rich amber colored oil extracted from the seeds of wild rose-bush (Rosa Canina) which is wild crafted and native to the highland regions of South Africa. It is a deciduous shrub that grows up to 5 meters high, bearing flowers varying from white to deep pink and oval intense red to orange fruits (hip) measuring up to 2 centimeters.

The oil is rich in vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin C, essential fatty acids such as linoleic acid, omega 6 and omega 3. It is known to contain lycopene; an antioxidant that protects the skin from premature ageing and also responsible for the oil's amber color. It is easily absorbed by the skin without leaving a greasy residue, replenishing moisture and creating a protective barrier on the skin hence preventing dehydration of the skin. It can be used by persons of any age, on all skin types, and it has been scientifically proven to have outstanding anti-ageing, skin regeneration and rejuvenation effect due to its high vitamin and essential fatty acids content.

Benefits

Rose hip seed oil is commonly used in its pure form or in skin care products to improve appearance of scars, wrinkles, stretch marks, sun damaged skin, uneven skin tone, pigmentation, discoloration, as well as manage dehydrated or ageing skin and other conditions such as burns, rash, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis and roscacea. The vitamins A, C and E helps to delay aging, assists with cell regeneration by promoting collagen and elastin production. This improves skin elasticity and results in a younger looking, smoother and firmer skin. The fatty acids hydrate the skin leaving the skin feeling softer, supple and restoring its natural healthy glow. The oil can be incorporated into any regular lotion, cream or massage oil but it is best used in its undiluted pure form.

How to use

As a facial/skin moisturizer, massage 3 drops of pure rose hip oil into a freshly cleansed skin. It can be used both as a day or night moisturizer.

To manage skin conditions, apply 2 or more drops of pure rose hip oil on the affected area or as required to cover the whole area. It can be gently massaged to absorb if the skin is not very irritated. Use as often as required to keep the area well moisturized all day.

SliceOfNatureRose hip seed oil is 100% cold pressed, virgin and pure making it very safe and effective in preventing and healing damaged skin. The hips are hand-picked by the local people of South Africa hence a source of sustainable economically empowerment for the local communities. Due to its pure form and high concentration of essential fatty acids, Rose hip oil should be stored in cool temperatures and away from direct light to prevent oxidation.

SliceOfNature

Aloe Vera gel for hair care regimen

In our previous post, we looked at the benefits of Aloe Vera as natural skin care gel. We now look more deeply at the benefits of this natural gel in hair care and how to incorporate it in your hair care regimen.

Benefits

Ø      Dandruff, seborrhea and psoriasis treatment – Due to its antimicrobial, soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera gel is great in relieving and eventual healing from scalp scaling. It soothes the itch and hydrates the sores enabling repair and fast recovery from the damage caused.

Ø      Promoting hair growth - Aloe Vera gel is rich in gibberellins, nutrients and growth hormones that easily penetrate the scalp. These nutrients stimulate the growth of healthy hair cells thereby promoting growth of new and existing hair as well as slowing down or preventing hair loss.

Ø      Nourishing and moisturizing the hair – Aloe vera gel is rich in amino acids, vitamins, niacin and polysaccharides. These nutrients are easily absorbed by the hair and scalp promoting soft, healthy, beautiful and manageable hair.

How to use

If using plain and pure aloe vera gel for shampoo or treatment, it means you might require a lot of it. For these purposes, you can mix it with your regular shampoo or treatment.

Ø      Shampoo – To prepare an aloe vera shampoo, mix 1 part of aloe vera gel with 4 parts shampoo. Shampoo your hair normally with warm water.

Ø      Treatment – Mix 1 part honey, 1 part shea butter and 1 part aloe vera gel. Slightly warm the mixture then massage it in to wet, freshly shampooed hair. It is advisable to shampoo your hair with warm water to open up pores and hair follicles for easier absorption. Wrap your hair with a warm towel for 30 minutes; you can sit it under a hood dryer for 15 minutes. Wash it off with warm water. Your hair will love it.

If you choose to use your regular conditioner, mix 1 part aloe vera gel, 1 part honey and 4 parts regular conditioner. Follow all the other steps as above.

Ø      Leave in conditioner – apply a small amount of aloe vera gel into freshly shampooed hair. Apply on the scalp and on the hair from root to end. Massage it in to distribute it evenly. You can also use a wide-tooth comb to run small amounts through your hair. Style the hair as desired.

Ø      Moisturizing - Rub a small amount of aloe vera gel on your palms and apply to your hair with special attention to dry ends. You can do this two to three times a week and apply to your scalp once a week. Some people report that it also helps to hold their hair in place.

Tip: The skin and scalp absorb 80% of what you put on it. We do recommend purchasing pure natural Aloe vera gel as opposed to purchasing it as a component in shampoos, treatments or conditioners. Organic, pure and unaltered aloe vera gel is safe for all ages and scalp and hair types.

SliceOfNature

Extracting aloe vera gel – DIY

Growing your own aloe vera plants in your own compound is easy as it only requires fair weather; warm sun and watering. Aloe vera plants do not flourish in cold temperatures. An aloe vera plant takes about 4 years to reach full maturity. Be sure to plant yours in a large pot as the plant grows to a height of up to two feet.

Extracting aloe vera gel – DIY

To harvest, choose an outer leaf which is healthy. Try to pick a leaf that is closest to the ground not to irritate the plant so that it can continue thriving. The thicker the leaf, the more gel you will extract.

Once you have dismembered the leaf from the plant, place it upright in a jar in a slightly tilted position to drain out the bitter dark resin/sap. Leave it for about 10-15 minutes. This step is important because the resin can irritate the skin if it ends up in your gel.

After the resin has drained, wash the leaf and place the aloe leaf on a chopping board. Cut off the tip and the pointed rough edges on either side of the aloe leaf. If the leaf is very and thick, you can chop it into smaller pieces to make peeling and removal of the gel easier. Cut both sides of the leaf lengthwise. Separate the front and back of the leaf from the inside.

Scoop out the muscilage and the clear inner (transparent) gel. A spoon will scoop out the aloe vera gel well. When scooping it out, it is important to press down lightly but firmly so as not to press out any remaining resin.

Place the gel in a blender and blend it. If you need to store it, add a few drops of vitamin E and a small amount of citric acid powder and blend. This will help prevent discoloration and preserve the gel for a longer period. If you do not have citric acid powder, you can simply crush a vitamin C tablet into powder form or use a drop of grapefruit seed extract. Finally, blend the mixture and strain it through a thick sieve: a fabric one will strain out the fine fibers in the gel well.

Pour the gel into a clean glass jar and cover/seal it. If the gel has foam on top, don’t worry, it will settle down. Store the aloe vera gel in a refrigerator preferably in a dark brown or green glass jar to keep out the light. Avoid exposing it to too much direct light or sun.

Tip: Fresh aloe vera gel has the best healing properties. Prolonged exposure to the air or light normally weakens these properties. It is therefore not advisable to harvest many aloe leaves all at once or store the gel for prolonged periods of time.

SliceofNature

Aloe 80 Organics Skin Soothing Aloe Vera Gel - 16 oz (Google Affiliate Ad)

Benefits of Aloe Vera as a natural skin care gel

In our previous post, we looked at the ‘what’ of the Aloe Vera plant and the general benefits of its gel. Today we look at the detailed benefits and common uses of this natural gel in skin care; the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of Aloe Vera gel.

Skin healer – Aloe Vera gel has antibiotic and antimicrobial properties hence great for use as an antiseptic ointment. It provides a solution to many skin problems from blemishes, acne, shingles, eczema, herpes, rosacea to rashes with no side effects as it is raw and organic. Applied to wounds, cuts, burns, insect bites and stings, it accelerates healing by promoting formation of new tissue and growth of blemish-free healthy skin. This is because it contains gibberellins, growth hormones that stimulate growth of healthy skin cells, and limits formation of scar tissue.

Skin Repair – Aloe Vera gel is exceptionally rich in amino acids, vitamins A, B12, C, E, F and niacin and polysaccharides. These nutrients give it the hydrating properties and quickly penetrates the skin leaving the skin soft, supple and deeply moisturized hence improving the skin’s texture and firmness. It counteracts the effects of weather or age especially wrinkles.  

Skin Soother – Aloe Vera gel has soothing properties similar to menthol making it a great skin soother. Its hydrating properties make it a good moisturizer as it leaves a protective layer on the skin that locks in moisture. It works wonderfully on sunburns and other damage like burns, scalds and chapped or cracked skin. Hydrated skin is soft and recovers fast from damage.

Shaving Gel – Aloe Vera gel has anti-inflammatory properties hence when used as a shaving gel; it leaves the skin smooth giving you that needed close shave. Due to its hydrating nature, you can also apply as an aftershave to prevent razor burn.

Strains and muscle pains – Aloe Vera gel is absorbed quickly by the skin and reduces inflammation and pain. It is effective on strains, sprains, muscle pains and arthritic pain. It is also a great compress for tired and puffy eyes.

Makeup remover - Aloe Vera gel is a perfect alternative to oil based make up removers.

Scalp and hair care – Aloe Vera gel is a good treatment for dandruff, seborrhea, psoriasis and hair loss that results from these scalp conditions.

How to use Aloe Vera gel

Cleanse and dab your skin dry with a clean towel. 

If using aloe gel, soak in cotton ball to apply. If using a fresh aloe leaf, peel the skin and apply directly on the skin. Let it dry out before rinsing with warm water.

For skin healing, use daily; 2-3 times a day for a start. When the skin improves, reduce to at least 3 times per week till it completely heals. 

For general skin care, use it alone or along with your favorite oil or butter to keep the skin moisturized and soft.

To apply on scalp and hair, rub or comb small amounts through your hair. Style as usual.  

For strains and sprains, apply aloe gel with a cold compress to the sore area 2-3 times a day.

SliceofNature

Natural Skincare with Aloe Vera Gel

What is aloe vera?

Aloe vera is a stem-less plant with thick, green and succulent leaves that is said to have originated from the tropical and sub-tropical Africa. Today, the plant grows in various parts of the world and due to its adaptable nature; it flourishes in most places with fair weather. The gel extracted from the aloe vera leaves is believed to have rejuvenating, healing and soothing properties. It is therefore taken as juice, as dried extract capsules or applied as a topical lotion for its benefits.

Aloe Vera plant

Benefits of aloe vera on the skin at a glance

Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel (the clear inner gel) is easily absorbed by the skin hence it is non greasy. It is ideal for all skin types, including sensitive, acne, rosacea and eczema prone. Aloe vera gel has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that are active on acne causing bacteria. It also has astringent and anti-inflammatory properties that soothe irritated skin and heal broken or chapped skin. It has hydrating properties that help in healing scars, balancing skin moisture and stimulating the growth of new skin.

SliceofNature

Natural hair and skin cleanser: Raw African Black Soap

African Black Soap, commonly referred to as the black soap is produced in West Africa mainly Ghana where it is referred to as alata samina or anago soap.  It is also known as dudu osun in Nigeria.  It has been used in these countries for centuries to achieve beautiful skin. Real African black soap is soft with an uneven surface. It is beige to brown, dark brown or gray in color; not uniformly black.  

Preparation of the black soap recipe requires several locally available ingredients; plantain peels, cocoa beans pods, palm leaves, palm oil, palm kernel oil, coconut oil and shea butter. Plantain peels are preferred because they are a rich source of vitamins A, E, iron and antioxidants that cleanse the skin leaving it smooth and supple. Specific black soap recipes may vary because different communities have adopted their own specific closely guarded blend of leaves, oils and preparation techniques that result in the differing color and texture variations.  To start with, the plantain leaves, palm leaves and cocoa bean pods are sun dried and roasted in clay pots or ovens at constant temperatures to produce consistent ash (potash). The consistency is important to ensure uniform texture, color and smell in the finished product. This process may also include banana leaves and the shea tree barks. The ash is usually dark brown in color with black specs hence the name black soap. Water and the various oils; palm oil, palm kernel oil, coconut oil, and shea butter are then added to filtered ash and stirred at intervals for at least a full day. Once the mixture is consistent, it is set aside to settle and cure for 2 weeks. This mixture is what eventually hardens to form the black soap. It is raw as the recipe only contains natural ingredients, hence Raw African Black Soap.

Benefits of African Black Soap over regular soap

Raw African Black soap has many documented and undocumented benefits in treating, renewing, repairing and protecting the skin. It is known to provide relief to acne, psoriasis, skin irritation, rash, manage oily skin, even out dark spots, eliminate blemishes, reduce fine lines and wrinkles as well as alleviate dandruff and itchy scalp. Consistent use will leave your skin and scalp healthy, soft and clear. It is a multi-purpose cleanser that you can use on your entire body and works for all types of skin.

From its ingredients, the black soap is rich in antioxidants and polyphenols that fight free radicals in the skin making it a good anti aging formula. It has antibacterial and antifungal properties that are beneficial for controlling bacteria and fungi growth on the skin hence prevention and relief from acne, skin irritation and blemishes; a good skin cleanser and makeup remover.  These properties also provide relief to minor scalp irritation, itching and dandruff. It does not contain caustic soda (no lye product) hence does not strip the skin and hair of its natural oils. It is therefore good for sensitive skin and as a hair shampoo.  The soap is also rich in vitamins A and E that are essential in healing and protecting the skin, leaving it soft and supple.

If you prefer liquid cleansers, don’t worry, you can prepare one with Raw African black soap. Just cut it into small pieces, place them in a clean jar, add pure water and leave it covered overnight. Gently stir the mixture in the morning. You can dilute with more water to achieve your preferred consistency.

Tips: As with any botanical product, you might want to first test for skin sensitivity on a small patch of your skin before use. If skin sensitivity does occur (which is rare), discontinue use. It is important to seek your physician’s advice if symptoms are persistent.

SliceofNature

Natural facial scrub for oily skin

If you have an oily skin, it is recommended you exfoliate one to two times a week with a non abrasive facial scrub. You might want to opt for a home made natural gentle scrub that will not irritate or strip away the excess oils. Stripping away the excess oils may create a bigger problem as the sebaceous glands instinctively replenish the lost oils and the skin becomes very sensitive. It is also important to avoid exfoliating your skin when you have a break out to avoid spreading it further.

What you need

1 table spoon skimmed milk
1 table spoon honey
1 table spoon ground almonds/oatmeal

Mix the ingredients in a container. The skimmed milk minimizes the scrubs moisturizing effect as it has low fat content. Oatmeal softens when moistened hence will not irritate your skin. Apply on your moist face and gently rub it in circular motion to exfoliate. Wash it off with warm water and pat your skin dry with a clean towel. Tone and moisturize your face with a light moisturizer of your choice to seal in moisture. You could opt for organic argan oil; it works for all skin types. This facial scrub can also work for any other type of skin. For dry skin, use cream, for normal or combination skin, use whole milk.

Tip: As with any at home remedy, you might want to first test the butter for skin sensitivity on a small patch of your skin before use. If skin sensitivity does not occur, continue use.

SliceofNature

Natural facial scrub for normal or combination skin

You are lucky if you have a normal skin as it is rarely problematic and glows most of the time. A combination skin is characterized as normal and oily skin or, oily and dry skin. To exfoliate a combination skin, you might therefore need to consider using an easy to prepare natural scrub that will get the job done without irritating the skin and one that will moisturize at the same time. It is a delicate balancing act of exfoliating all areas of the face without harming the skin on some areas.

Ingredients

2 table spoons natural yoghurt (with live cultures)

2 table spoons ground or walnuts/oatmeal

Mix the ingredients in a container. You can use more of the ingredients but combining equal amounts of each ingredient will yield a thick perfect paste. Oatmeal softens when moistened hence will not irritate your skin. For a more active scrub, use walnuts. Apply on your moist face and rub it in circular motion to gently exfoliate. Wash it off with warm water and pat your skin dry with a clean towel. Tone and finally moisturize your face with argan oil to seal in moisture. As with any at home remedy, you might want to first test for skin sensitivity on a small patch of your skin before use. If skin sensitivity does not occur, continue use.

SliceofNature

Natural facial scrub for dry, dehydrated skin

Dry skin is more susceptible to dehydration skin due to harsh environmental factors especially winters due to heating and air conditioning. It may also be caused by medications, harsh skin products or smoking. The signs of a dehydrated skin are similar to sunburn; tight feel feeling, burning sensation and a rough or flaky texture. To exfoliate this kind of skin, you might need to consider using a 100% organic, natural scrub that will also moisturize your skin and seal in moisture at the same time. The best part is that you prepare it yourself! 
 

Ingredients

2 table spoons sea salt or sugar

1 table spoon virgin argan oil

1 table spoon organic honey

Mix the ingredients in a container. Leave the mixture to rest for 5 minutes to allow the sugar/sea salt to dissolve slightly. Apply on your moist face and rub it in circular motion to gently exfoliate. Wash it off with warm water and pat your skin dry with a clean towel. Tone and moisturize your face with a deep moisturizer to seal in moisture. The sea salt/sugar exfoliates, argan oil moisturizes while the honey seals in moisture to your dehydrated skin. Sea salt specifically detoxifies and cleanses your skin. This scrub should only be used at most twice a month as sugar/sea salts can be abrasive and end up irritating your skin more if used frequently. As with any at home remedy, you might want to first test for skin sensitivity on a small patch of your skin before use. If skin sensitivity does not occur, continue use.

SliceOfNature

Home made natural facial scrub for dry skin

Have you been worried that you might be spending too much on expensive facial scrubs that maybe just irritating your skin with harsh ingredients? Ever wondered if you could prepare an easy natural facial scrub for your skin at home? Well, you could do it with products off your kitchen shelf, safe and 100% organic.

Natural facial scrub for dry skin

Ingredients

1 tablespoon finely ground almonds

1 tablespoon honey

Mix the ingredients in a container. Ground almonds exfoliate your skin without being overly abrasive to your skin hence safe to use often. Apply on your moist face and rub it in circular motion to exfoliate. Wash it off with warm water and pat your skin dry with a clean towel. Tone and moisturize your face with a deep moisturizer to seal in moisture. Argan oil or liquid shea butter will work perfect. You will love the texture of your skin.

Tip: As with any at home remedy, you might want to first test for skin sensitivity on a small patch of your skin before use. If skin sensitivity does not occur, continue use. We will be looking at more natural facial scrubs for various skin types.

SliceofNature

Manage eczema at home: Natural eczema remedy

Eczema is a skin disorder that can severely dry out your skin leaving it very irritated, itchy and scaly. If you have been diagnosed with eczema, it is therefore important to keep your skin moisturized and help it regain its moisture retention. There are many creams and ointments (most with steroids) in the market that are used to control this chronic skin condition. Most commercially produced lotions and creams contain chemicals that can aggravate eczema because they either are either not easily absorbed or they dry out and irritate the skin.

Shea butter is one product known to soothe rough and dry skin as well as keep it moisturized as it is easily absorbed by the skin. It nourishes the skin with high levels of Vitamins A, E and F hence acts as a skin protector and rejuvenator. East Africa Nilotica Shea Butter (Vitellaria Nilotica) is highly recommended for managing eczema as it is higher in olein (the liquid part of the shea butter) hence, softer. It spreads easily and needs no rubbing compared to the West African variety. It also has a higher absorption rate due to lower saturated fatty acids. Applying or rubbing your skin with a cream or lotion that contains this shea butter will deliver these important healing ingredients to the skin. Caution must however be exercised with some commercial lotions as they may advertise the presence of shea in their formula while they only contain a small percentage or may contain other ingredients especially preservatives that negate the positive effects of the shea on the skin.

Luckily, Mother Nature has provided this great, organic product in its pure, raw and unrefined form. The secret to obtain maximum benefit from this product therefore lies in its use.  You can add a few scoops (teaspoonfuls) of shea butter in a warm bath and soak yourself in it for 10 minutes. After showering, dry your skin by dabbing yourself with a dry and soft towel. Avoid rubbing your skin with the towel as this may irritate the skin. The more irritated the skin is, the itchier it becomes. Moisturize your skin with shea butter as soon as you step out of the shower/bath; don’t let the skin dry out. Take time to rub it in gently on the irritated sections. To rub it in, use your finger tips. Avoid scratching at your skin as this irritates the skin more. If you notice your skin is dry or itchy in the course of the day, rub in some more shea butter. Shea butter is easily absorbed by the skin hence can be applied at bedtime. The secret here is to keep your skin moisturized at all times.  You can repeat this routine as often as possible as shea butter has no side effects, it is safe for all ages and skin types.

Slice Of Nature fair trade Shea butter is 100% natural, with all the healing and moisturizing properties, raw in natural state, untainted and unaltered.

This blog is aimed at providing suggestions for the management of a healthy skin and/or mild cases of eczema and is not a replacement to physician advice. It is important to seek your physician’s advice if symptoms are persistent.   

SliceofNature

Managing an oily scalp

Just like the skin, the scalp has sebaceous glands which produce sebum (oil) that helps keep your scalp moisturized and is protective to the scalp. This sebum is healthy as it prevents bacteria and fungi from penetrating the pores. However, overproduction of sebum will lead to an oily scalp and greasy hair as a result. Greasy hair will attract a lot of dust leading to a build up of dead cells, dirt and bacteria that will clog and infect the pores causing scalp infections and spoiling your overall look.

Causes of oily scalp

Although there are always exceptions, an oily scalp can be caused by the following: genetic predisposition, hormonal imbalance, stress, poor diet, weather as well as lack of regular and consistent scalp and hair cleansing resulting in the build-up of oil and dirt.

Caring for an oily scalp and greasy hair

• Shampoo your hair on alternate days; at most 3 times a week just to keep the scalp and hair clean and well groomed. Shampooing too little provides a good breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. Shampooing too much irritates and strips off the oils on the scalp. By stripping the oils away, the sebaceous glands instinctively replenish the lost oils and you end up creating a bigger problem as the scalp also becomes very sensitive.
• Use warm water to shampoo, not cold or hot water. Hot water damages the outer layer of the scalp (epidermis). Rinse your hair thoroughly after shampooing; leaving any remnants behind will also irritate the scalp.
• Steer clear from harsh hair products; they have a drying effect on the scalp as they strip off the oils and moisture on the scalp. Use mild shampoos with a low or balanced pH or one that is specifically made for oily scalp/hair. You can also use an antiseptic while shampooing to control the bacteria and fungi multiplying on your scalp. For this purpose, dilute a few drops (3 to 5) of leleshwa (African wild sage) with your preferred shampoo, treatment or conditioner and apply as usual.
• Condition your hair regularly. Opt for a deep moisturizing hair and scalp conditioner which will not leave your scalp oily. For this case, opt for a conditioner with natural and organic moisturizers like the home made avocado treatment. To oil your scalp, opt for natural oils that will help in reducing oil production in your scalp like shea butter and argan oil. However, apply and massage it in moderation to avoid overdoing it.
• Reduce your stress levels. Stress leads to hormonal imbalances which will lead to over production of sebum by the sebaceous glands. Adopt a healthy lifestyle to cope with stress eg. taking a walk, dancing, yoga, singing etc. Eat foods rich in antioxidants, essential oils/omega fats, minerals, fibre and vitamins and maintain a high consumption of water to keep your skin healthy and hydrated. A healthy diet and lifestyle will always reflect on your skin/scalp.
• Lastly, when shampooing, combing or brushing your hair; be gentle with your scalp. Applying too much force when shampooing will irritate and strip off the oils on the scalp. Brushing too much and too often moves the oils from the scalp to the hair and this will prompt the glands to compensate with more oils.

This blog is aimed at providing suggestions for the management of a healthy scalp and/or mild cases of an oily scalp and is not a replacement to physician advice. If symptoms persist, it is important to contact a physician.

SliceofNature

Managing a dry scalp

Ever noticed that your scalp looks and feels a tad too thirsty? You could be having a dry scalp. The causes of a dry scalp are mostly environmental ranging namely cold winters, shampooing too much, shampooing too little, scalp sensitivity to harsh hair products like chemicals, gels, hairsprays and dyes, use of alkaline soaps or alcohol based shampoos, as well as excessive heat from dryers.

If not managed in time, it could become itchy and may flake as a result. It is therefore important to identify what is irritating your scalp and control it before the scalp becomes problematic. Prevention is however better than cure. Following are tips of maintaining a healthy scalp as well as simple remedies for managing a dry scalp.

• You are what you eat. An unhealthy diet as well as poor nutrition reflects on your skin/scalp. Eat foods rich in antioxidants, essential oils/omega fats, minerals, fibre and vitamins and maintain a high consumption of water to keep your skin healthy and hydrated.
• Can you eat what you put on your skin/scalp? Start by understanding that “If it is not good for your stomach, it is not good for the skin” The skin is the largest organ of the body and It absorbs 80% of what you put on it. Natural hair may not be the easiest to manage, but using chemicals and heat to treat your hair irritates the scalp.
• Shampoo your scalp at most twice a week, just to keep the scalp and hair clean and well groomed. Shampooing too little provides a good breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. Shampooing too much strips off the natural oils on the scalp which are healthy (they prevent bacteria and fungi penetrating the pores). Use warm water to shampoo, not cold or hot water. Hot water damages the outer layer of the scalp (epidermis). Rinse your hair thoroughly after shampooing; leaving any remnants behind irritates the scalp.
• Steer clear from harsh hair products; chemicals, chlorine, dyes, alcohol based shampoos, hairsprays, gels, alkaline soaps etc. They have a drying effect on the scalp by stripping off the oils and moisture on the scalp.
• You can also use an antiseptic while shampooing to keep bacteria and fungi at bay or rather prevent them multiplying on your scalp. For this purpose, dilute a few drops (3 to 5) of leleshwa (African wild sage) with your preferred shampoo, treatment, conditioner or gel and apply as usual.
• Use deep conditioning hair treatments with organic ingredients/moisturizers like shea butter or argan oil. You can also try deep natural conditioners like our home made avocado treatment.
• Heat based hair straightening tools like tongs and the dryer irritate the scalp. Don’t over do them or overstay in the dryer even if using protective hair sprays or lotions.
• There is nothing much you can do about harsh weather conditions but protect your scalp appropriately by keeping it clean, moisturized and warm during winter. Opt for a good organic moisturizer like coconut oil, one easily absorbed by the scalp as opposed to oily/petroleum based ones. Petroleum irritates scalp.

This blog is aimed at providing suggestions for the management of a healthy scalp and/or mild cases of dry scalp and is not a replacement to physician advice. If symptoms persist, it is important to contact a physician. Most often, a doctor will diagnose simply by looking at your hair and scalp.

SliceOfNature

DIY avocado hair treatment

Home made avocado hair treatment

Do you have dry brittle hair and you are looking for an organic recipe that will leave your hair and scalp nourished and moisturized? Then read ahead and find out how you can prepare a home made avocado wrap.

What you need

3 teaspoons argan oil

3 teaspoons liquid shea butter

5 teaspoons honey

1 ripe avocado

Instructions for use

Peel and core the avocado, mix with a hand blender with the other ingredients. Apply a generous amount of the mixture to shampooed, wet hair; apply from root to ends and massage it in. Wrap your hair with a warm towel for 20-30 minutes. For deep conditioning and to revitalize your hair, you can sit it under a hood dryer for 10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and style the hair as desired.

If your hair is prone to being overly greasy, use less of the argan oil and liquid shea butter: if it is the overly dry type, use more of argan oil and liquid shea butter.  You can obtain the honey and avocado used in this recipe from your local herbal/health food store.

This recipe is effective as a natural hair conditioning treatment for all hair types. The moisturizing effect improves the appearance of dry, damaged or brittle hair. The anti-inflammatory effect of the argan oil soothes and reduces scalp conditions such as psoriasis or eczema. Used on hair, argan oil adds a remarkable shine to dull hair and counters the effect of age and weather. It restores and prevents damage to hair due to styling and outdoor activities, and also improves elasticity and reduces hair loss due to breakage. The anti-inflammatory effect of shea butter soothes and treats scalp conditions such as psoriasis or eczema and provides relief to dry and itchy scalp as well as dandruff. 

SliceofNature

Home made herbal body butter cream

Harsh weather conditions usually leave the skin feeling rough, dry, chapped and at times itchy. A herbal body butter recipe made of all natural products can be the perfect answer you need to soothe and keep your skin moisturized. The oils in the butter are quickly absorbed into the skin, moisturizing and softening it hence relieving dry skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth without clogging the pores. The essential oils especially soothe the skin relieving the rough and itchy feeling. Glycerin is a skin softener.

What you need

6 oz of shea butter

6 oz of cocoa butter

3 oz of coconut oil

3oz of Argan oil

3 oz avocado oil

3 oz of bees wax

6 tablespoons of vegetable glycerin

Essential oils (chamomile wild, myrrh, patchouli)

Instructions

• Melt grated cocoa butter, bees wax and shea butter gently in double boiler of microwave oven until they have liquefied (melted).
• Add the coconut, argan and avocado oils and whisk the mixture with a hand blender then cool it gently for 5 minutes in the fridge or in a bowl of ice.  Take care not to cool it too fast to prevent it from getting grainy.
• Add the glycerin and whisk the mixture some more.
• Add up to 10 drops of each of the essential oils and give it another whisk to get air into it.
• Cool your mixture some more 5 minutes and whisk it again. Repeat the process till you are happy with its consistency. 
• Leave it to set before use. Store the butter in a wide-mouthed container and in a cool place away from direct light.

Tips

• If you prefer a softer herbal butter cream next time, formulate the mixture using a higher percentage of the liquid oils. For a recipe that is more solid at room temperature and holds better consistency in the container, formulate with more of bees wax.
• With any at home remedy, you might want to first test the butter for skin sensitivity on a small patch of your skin before use. If skin sensitivity does not occur, continue use.
• Care should be taken when using essential oils, especially on children and during pregnancy.

·        You can obtain the glycerin, bees wax and avocado oils used in this recipe in your local herbal/health food store.

SliceofNature

Home made body butter cream with bees wax

If you require butter cream that is more solid at room temperature and holds better consistency in the container, you might want to add bees wax to your body butter recipe. Bees wax increases the melting point of the combined oils because it has a higher melting point. The difference with THIS butter is that body butter with bees wax is more solid at room temperature and does not melt easily hence, it might require a bit of rubbing on the skin before it melts.  Bees wax has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and moisturizing qualities on the skin. It locks in moisture hence keeping the skin hydrated and firm. It also aids the skin in healing from minor burns and scars, and as well provides a natural relief from eczema and psoriasis.

What you need

3 oz of cocoa butter

3 oz of shea butter

3 oz  of coconut or argan oil or any other liquid oil

3 oz of bees wax

Essential oil or fragrance (optional)

Instructions

      Melt grated cocoa, bees wax and shea butter gently in double boiler of microwave oven until they have liquefied (melted).

      Add your preferred liquid oil and whisk the mixture with a hand blender and cool it gently for 5 minutes in the fridge or in a bowl of ice.  Take care not to cool it too fast to prevent it from getting grainy.

      Add a few drops of your preferred essential oil or fragrance at this point (3-5 drops) and give it another whisk to get air into it.

      Cool your mixture some more 5 minutes and whisk it again. Repeat the process till you are happy with its consistency.  Leave it to set before use. Store the butter in a cool place away from direct light.

Tips

• If you prefer a softer body butter cream next time, formulate the mixture using a higher percentage of liquid oil.
• As with any at home remedy, first test the butter on a small patch of skin before use.
• Care should be taken when using essential oils.

SliceofNature

DIY natural body butter cream

Sometimes harsh weather, especially winter, can leave the skin feeling rough, dry, chapped and at times itchy. A rich body butter made of natural products can be the perfect answer to soothe and keep it moisturized. There are many butter blends you could prepare at home.

What you need

3 oz of cocoa butter

6 oz of shea butter

3 oz  of coconut or argan oil or any other liquid oil

Essential oil or fragrance (optional)

Instructions

Ø      Melt grated cocoa and shea butter gently in double boiler of microwave oven until they have fully liquefied (melted).

Ø      Add your preferred liquid oil, (if using virgin coconut oil, melt it first) and whisk the mixture with a hand blender then cool it gently for 5 minutes in the fridge or in a bowl of ice.  Take care not to cool it too fast as it can get grainy or lumpy.

Ø      Add a few drops of your preferred essential oil or fragrance at this point (3-5 drops) and give it another whisk to get air into it.

Ø      Cool your mixture some more 5 minutes and whisk it again. Repeat the process till you are happy with its consistency.  Leave it to set before use.

The Cocoa butter helps relieve dry skin, dermatitis and eczema. It is effective in reducing and prevention of stretch marks and scars. The Shea butter leaves your skin feeling really soft and smooth. It is great for dry skin and softens rough areas of the skin. It is non-greasy and is quickly absorbs into the skin.  Coconut oil is especially good for dry skin as it is an excellent skin moisturizer and softener. Argan oil is great at counteracting the effects of age and weather.

Tips

• If you find the body butter cream hard and you prefer it softer next time, formulate the mixture using a higher percentage of liquid oil. For a harder cream, use a higher percentage of cocoa butter.
• As with any 'at home remedy', first test for sensitivity; especially to essential oils, on a small patch of skin before use.
• Care should be taken when using essential oils.

SliceofNature

What is dandruff?

In our previous article, we saw that drying and flaking off of skin cells from the scalp is normal. However, if the shedding and build up is excessive due to internal or environmental causes, it tends to give the scalp a scaly appearance leading to irritation. It can be identified by dry, fine flaky skin on the scalp. Most people will simply complain of white/grayish flakes on their shoulders which are mostly noticeable on dark clothing.

The common causes of dandruff are; infrequent shampooing, emotional and mental stress, compromised or poor immune system, hormones as well as hair styling and use of harsh treatments/chemicals on the scalp.  

Dandruff Treatment

Dandruff is a mild and easy to treat skin/scalp problem. It will mostly resolve in a few weeks of treatment with therapeutic dandruff shampoos. All affected areas should be shampooed. The shampoos help by slowing down over production of skin cells, removing the affected cells as well as controlling the fungi that promotes dandruff. It is also important to learn to manage your stress levels, eating well, treating underlying medical conditions as well as cutting back on harsh hair styling products and heat treatment.

We, at SliceOfNature recommend a natural, non toxic, non irritant, easy to use remedy for the treatment of dandruff; African wild sage, commonly known as leleshwa.  It is great for this purpose when used in shampoos, treatments, hair conditioners and gels. Treatment is easy; just dilute a few drops of leleshwa (3 to 5 drops) with your preferred shampoo, treatment, conditioner or gel and apply as usual. Repeat treatment 2-3 times a week.

It is good to note that application of leleshwa is only safe in small quantities and only if diluted with a carrier oil or a solubilized solution. For external use only, avoid contact with eyes. Treatment is not recommended on pregnant women during the first three months. Whatever treatment regime you choose or works for you, follow through with recommendations and persistence because all methods of treatment take time.

This blog is aimed at providing suggestions for the management of mild cases of dandruff and is not a replacement to physician advice. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to contact a physician. Most often, a doctor will diagnose simply by looking at your hair and scalp.

SliceOfNature

How to use Rhassoul clay as a face cleanser and mask

Cleansing is the first step in any skin care regime. It is good to note that Rhassoul clay works for any skin type. 
As a facial cleanser, scoop a 1/3 teaspoon; mix with a few drops of water to make paste. Apply like you would a cleanser. Rinse out thoroughly with warm water. 

As a mask, scoop 1 teaspoon; mix with water to make paste.  Massage it in with your finger tips in light upward strokes and let it sit for 10-15 minutes until dry. Rinse out thoroughly with warm water and pat your face dry but not completely with a soft towel to leave a little moisture. 

Cool off your skin with a gentle refreshing toner preferably water-based or glycerin-based; avoid alcohol based toners as they are very harsh on the skin. 

Follow with a good vitamin E moisturizer suitable for your skin type to hydrate the skin without clogging the pores. Argan oil or Tamanu oil work perfect as they absorb quickly and are non greasy, they will not clog your pores.

Check out the benefits of use of this clay in our Rhassoul clay product review. 

SliceofNature

Lip care - Learn the secrets

Lip care is an indispensable part of beauty regimen which many people often overlook. It is indispensable because proper lip care provides lips with long life and softness. Lip-balms have been used for ages to give lips a shiny, luscious appearance as well as protect and relieve rough, dry, chapped and cracked lips. This makes a lip balm an important makeup item for everyone.

Natural lip balms containing vitamin A and E are the best way to preserve the health of the lips as they are chemical free. They heal, repair and moisturize with organic healing ingredients such as shea butter oils. Organic shea butter lip balms nourish the lips with high levels of Vitamins A, E and F without leaving a waxy feeling. The vitamins A and E keep the lips healthy and act as a sunscreen while the vitamin F protects and rejuvenates the skin on the lips. Frequent and consistent use yields in smooth and soft lips in all weather.

SliceOfNature sells great high quality organic, 100% pure and raw nilotica shea butter lip balms. You can get these lip balms in plain or these wonderful natural flavors; vanilla, spearmint, orange, strawberry or tropical punch. All these flavors are alcohol free.