Soothing Winter Dryness - California Coast Parent Dec/Jan 09

Tropical Treats for Winter Skin Woes

by Inga Tritt

Honey, oatmeal, and coconut oil — YUM! Sounds like the makings of a tropical treat. Actually, these are the ingredients for ultra-moisturizing, stress-eliminating hair and skin elixirs.

As a mom, I love simple, low-cost bath remedies that soothe itchy, dry or irritated skin — especially during the colder months. And taking the time to treat myself makes me feel calm, relaxed and stress-free. Putting aside the laundry for a moment and indulging in my favorite tropical bath transforms everything. Stepping into the warm water, I feel as if I’m on an exotic island vacation. Ahhhhhh. Life is perfect, and I am a happy mommy and happy wife again.

I love sharing these stress-reducing treatments with my family. Plus, our skin and hair look like we just came from our favorite spa — for a lot less! Here are a few of my family’s favorite island-inspired bath treats.

Delicious Coconut Island Soother

Grind 1 cup of oatmeal into a fine powder in a food processor or blender. Pour into a warm bath and add some honey and virgin coconut oil, which can be found in the health food store. You’ll feel as if you’re soaking in a warm tropical drink! Rinse off in a cooler shower to seal in moisture and wash away oatmeal. Your skin will feel silky soft — vacation style — without breaking the bank.

Luscious Hawaiian Hair Retreat

Mix a hot-oil hair mask by putting two tablespoons virgin coconut oil and one tablespoon honey in a plastic baggie. Submerge in warm water for one minute. Apply the golden liquid to dry hair, making sure to cover from scalp to ends, and top with a shower cap. Shampoo and rinse after ten minutes. Your hair will shine like never before and smell yummy, too! Delicious!

Exotic Oatmeal Spritzer

Did someone say oatmeal? Oatmeal has many natural healing and soothing properties and works wonders on irritated skin. Mix fine oatmeal powder (ground in a food processor or blender) with water in a spray bottle and add your favorite exotic floral essential oil, such as ylang ylang or jasmine. This can be a calming tropical treat for skin when you’re on the go whenever extra moisture is needed. Works wonders on dry hair and skin, plus it’s family friendly — let everyone enjoy!

After-Shower Tropical Bliss

After showering, apply virgin coconut oil to moist skin. Wrap yourself in a soft robe and have a nice warm mug of herbal tea. You will glow from the inside out. Enjoying these tropical treats helps you to stay healthy and happy. Plus, it’s a great way to set aside a little time for reflection, leaving behind a clear state of mind for the week ahead.