Welcome to November’s edition of “Green & Gorgeous”!  The first Friday of each month is devoted to all things beauty  here at Simple Organic.  Today, we’re talking about natural winter skin care routines.

Winter can be harsh on our skin. Between the cold and wind outdoors and the dry air indoors, we need a little extra TLC once the mercury drops in order to keep our largest organ in tip-top shape. Here are a few natural remedies for dry winter skin; the great news is that you probably have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already.

Avocado Face Mask

Simply mix together a little mashed avocado and a few drops of olive oil.  Massage gently into skin, allow to sit for a few minutes, and then rinse with warm water.

Avocados are rich in vitamins and minerals, especially vitamins A, D, and E.  Your face will soak up all that goodness and be much happier the next day.

Photo by Bruce

Pumpkin Face Mask

Who doesn’t have extra pumpkin around the house right now?  Here’s a way to use up some of that leftover pumpkin and a treat for your skin, all in one.

Combine two teaspoons pumpkin puree, 1/2 teaspoon honey, and 1/4 teaspoon milk.

If you normally have dry skin, you can add 1/2 teaspoon of brown sugar.  If you are usually on the oilier side, add 1/4 tsp apple cider vinegar.

Massage gently into skin, allow to sit for ten or fifteen minutes, and then rinse  with warm water.

Pumpkin is high in vitamins A and C, as well as zinc. Some of the most expensive natural skin care brands use pumpkin in their masks, so save some money and go right to the source.

Coconut Oil Moisturizer

In the warmer months, I use jojoba oil as a moisturizer, but once the weather cools I need something a little stronger, especially as I’ve gotten older.  Enter the miracle oil: coconut oil.

Photo by Chandrika Nair

You can use coconut oil not only on your face, but over your entire body.  If you don’t use too much, it will absorb right into the skin without leaving any greasiness behind.  Coconut oil is high in antioxidants and a great source of vitamin E. It is full of fatty acids that moisturize wonderfully.  (You’re already using it in your deodorant, anyway, right?!)

Do you have any secrets for keeping your skin naturally healthy and soft during the winter months?