3 plant-based moisturizing ingredients for glowing skin

Our skin needs lots of moisture to keep it looking and feeling its best. Find out which of these three natural ingredients would work best on your skin.

Sandalwood (Santalum album) grows in India and the best quality is found in the province of Mysore. The dried bark and essential oil has been used for centuries as a perfume and as a remedy in traditional Ayurvedic medicine.

• Soothing, relaxing and invigorating, the essential oil is known for its rejuvenating effects, especially on dry or mature skin, or skin that has been worn down by external agents.
• It reduces wrinkles, hydrates, reduces puffiness and stimulates the lymphatic system to accelerate the elimination of toxins.
• Its heavy and sensual aroma brings peace and harmony and encourages rest.

The rose is the mystical symbol of romantic love and its essential oil, produced from the petals of the Damascus rose, is considered to be an aphrodisiac.

• Often valued in cosmetics for its refreshing and slightly tonic virtues, it is especially recommended for sensitive skin.

With a texture that is lighter than the two previous preparations, this highly moisturizing lotion heals and nourishes dry skin. The scent of the essential oils of rosemary and mint gives it an added attraction.

To make your own rosemary and mint lotion, you'll need:

• 15 g (1 tbsp.) beeswax chips
• 60 ml (¼ cup) olive oil
• 60 ml (¼ cup) grapeseed oil
• 60 ml (¼ cup) rose water
• 60 ml (¼ cup) vegetable glycerin
• 5 g (1 tsp.) borax
• 10 drops essential oil of rosemary
• 10 drops peppermint essential oil
• 10 drops essential lavender oil

Preparation: 

1. In a double boiler, heat the beeswax, almond oil and grape seed oil over low heat until the wax is melted. Remove from the heat.
2. Also heat the rose water, glycerin and borax until it is dissolved. When the two liquids are lukewarm, mix them by whisking.
3. Gradually add the essential oils and beat the preparation until it is completely cool with a whisk or a mixer set on low speed.
4. Pour it into a jar or airtight container, and be sure to shake before use.

If you're out looking for the best type of natural oils for your skin, this guide should help you find a way to make your skin feel fresh and moisturized again.