BASE LAYER | Natural Face Cleansers

By Aja Lake

In the continuing column where we cover wellness and beauty, I'm thrilled to introduce new contributor Aja Lake of Lake & Co. Her first piece is about three common household items found in your kitchen and pantry that also can effectively double to clean, tone and remove makeup. I can see these tips coming in super handy while traveling, camping, or as a new daily regimen. Thanks Aja. 

1. COCONUT OIL: Dr. Bronner's Organic Coconut Oil ($12) There are a myriad of ways to use coconut oil, but employing it as a makeup remover is my all-time favorite. Coconut oil is naturally nourishing and aids in gently sloughing dead cells, resulting in supple and smooth skin. Plus it's antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial. Look for extra virgin, unrefined coconut oil. To use, swipe a cotton pad with coconut oil and apply generously to dry skin. Rinse with warm water. 

2. HONEY: Raw Colorado Honey ($9) Honey is both antibacterial and antimicrobial, making it a potent yet soothing facial cleanser. Suited for all skin types, its healing qualities will leave your face feeling soft and fresh. To get the most beauty benefits, use a raw and pure honey, and, when possible, buy local. Since it won't remove makeup, honey is best when used as a morning cleanser. Just moisten your face with water, rub a quarter-size amount of honey between fingers, and massage onto face. To lock in honey's moisturizing properties, rinse with cool water. 

3. LIME JUICE: The mild, astringent properties of fresh lime juice create the perfect natural facial toner. Lime juice removes dirt and oils from skin, without causing irritation. Plus its acidic base gently exfoliates, delivering skin-brightening benefits. Simply squeeze lime juice onto a cotton pad and apply to face, or combine lime juice and water in a small spray bottle and mist face, wiping clean with cotton.