Face It

The battle with acne and moisturizers 
is a constant one.

Finding the right balance is an uphill battle. Easier for some once they find that magical recipe and a lifelong struggle for others no matter what they try. Maybe I'm late to the game but for me, I've found what seems to be the best combination (at least this month) to keep my skin looking clear, healthy and dewy - Tea Tree & Maracuja Oil. Individually, they have their own benefits. Combined, they're a match made in blemish free, anti aging, fresh faced heaven!

A quick google search on both will give you all the information you need on each of the products. In an effort to save you some time, I'll list off a few.

Maracuja Oil:

• It comes from various varieties of the oil rich Passionflower plant (fruit and it's seeds). When extracted it is called Maracuja.
• The oil is light and is considered to be a good emollient. It acts as a nice moisturizer by penetrating readily into the skin and preventing moisture from leaking out.
• It's anti-inflammatory properties reduce inflammation.
• Its antioxidants scavenge free radicals, thus preventing our tissues from damage by these foul age thieving entities.
• It's vegan, hypoallergenic and a little bit goes a Long way!

When using Tarte's Brand:

• It has a pump on the cap and glass dropper for application
• 96% of women saw an overall visible improvement in skin
• 91% of women saw a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles
• 94% of women saw a visible improvement in skin texture
• 94% of women thought skin appeared renewed and rejuvenated.

Tea Tree Oil:

• Is well-known for its powerful purifying and antiseptic properties and its ability to treat wounds has been documented in numerous medical studies, killing many strains of bacteria, viruses and fungi.
• It has a natural and powerful anti-inflammability.
• Also being antimicrobial, it helps to fight acne, cold sores, psoriasis/eczema, staph and fungal infections, insect bites, dry cuticles and sunburns - just to name a few! The list quite literally, goes on.

When using The Body Shop's Essential Oil brand:

• They sustainably hand-harvest their Community Trade tea tree leaves within 12 hours, so they can "bottle our purest oil".
• Their purifying tea tree oil is grown in the foothills of Mount Kenya.
• Not sticky or oily, absorbs very quickly.

#Sold. Personally, it took me a good 3 days to notice any kind of difference when using both products. On day three I noticed my face (and combination skin) was smoother, brighter and clearer! Nearing my mid 30's, I wanted to try and find a more natural approach to skincare, so far this has worked well enough for me to want to continue using both (even though the Maracuja is pricey) until my skin gets used to this mashup.

My nightly routine goes as follows:

1. Wash face with a mild cleanser and a rough washcloth (I SWEAR by this!).
2. This only applies twice a week but it yields the best results: Use a salt scrub; mine has coconut oil in it.
3. Rinse
4. Use a small thin round cotton pad to apply the Tea Tree Oil. You can spot treat any marks/blemishes but I use it all over. Concentrating (and dabbing a bit more product) on my problem zones.
5. Using small circular motions, massage in the Maracuja Oil. Taking it down my neck (always working in an Upward motion. Let's FIGHT gravity people!), just about behind my ears, on my chest and between my breasts (to combat that weird aging crepey skin that will ultimately happen. Especially if you're a Heavy side sleeper like myself).

This might seem like a bit of an extensive nightly routine but trust me, it's not. 10 minutes out of your evening to look and feel your best every day is worth the trouble. 

Now, Initially, the maracuja oil might feel like a bit much, but sleep on it. Your skin will absorb it. I sometimes will even use a light moisturizer on top of it just to be sure my skin stays supple and hydrated. You can even use this as a primer for your makeup! Used before or with foundation...it's amaze. I've done both with Great results. The tea tree oil [will sting a bit but it helps] keep bacteria out of your pores and blemishes at bay. This is pretty much a guarantee for me. It will forever be a staple in my cabinet!

*As with any new skincare product, Before applying these oils, one should  ALWAYS do a patch test on a small spot of skin. If there is no irritation, then it is safe to apply directly in its undiluted form. For small dry regions on the skin, take a few drops of [either] oil onto your fingertips and rub it gently into the skin. Should any irritation occur, discontinue use or try using a carrier oil in at least a 1:1 ratio to lessen the potency. (e.g. coconut oil, olive oil etc..) If your skin still does not take well to either, discontinue use.*