Watch your skin

Rain or shine, we want our skin to glow. And, it's no different during those cold wintry days, either. In winter, you should follow a moisturising and nourishing routine to protect and revitalise the skin. Here are a few things you could do keep your skin shining endlessly.

Cleansing — Use a rose cleansing cream morning and night. Do not wash your skin even with a mild soap. Milk with a dash of turmeric makes for a good home cleanser.

Toning — Equal quantities of rose water and witch-hazel make for a good toner, as it decongests the skin. Cucumber juice is also an effective toner for dry skin in winter.

Moisturising and conditioning — Layer your moisturisers and conditioners to trap in the moisture and oil. First apply a few drops of face oil made of three drops of sandalwood oil, one tablespoon of almond oil and one teaspoon of castor oil. Apply a moisturiser after five minutes.

Carry out a facial scrub with oatmeal and almonds, twice a week. Dampen your face with water, and gently massage with the scrub cream. Rinse with warm water.

You can also mix a tablespoon of fresh cream, one crushed almond and a pinch of oats for the scrub.

Once a week, use the following soothing facial mask. Mix one tablespoon of milk powder, half a banana, half teaspoon of honey and enough yoghurt to make a paste.

Caring for your mane

In winter, not just your face, your hair needs attention too. Here are a few natural, time-tested procedures for dry hair care. For protein conditioner, beat together one tablespoon of castor oil, one tablespoon of almond oil, one tablespoon of glycerine, one teaspoon of cider vinegar and one teaspoon of protein, with four drops of sandalwood oil. Apply it on the scalp, and leave for 20 minutes before rinsing.

For a special massage oil or toner, mix equal quantities of castor oil and coconut oil to one teaspoon of lavender essential oil. Heat it a little, and massage gently into the scalp at night. Rinse or shampoo in the morning. Follow this at least twice a week.

Spread a few drops of ylang ylang on the palm and apply to hair immediately after a wash, and watch your hair shimmer in an instant.