Bath: Soap-and-Water is an Effective Skin Cleanser

One’s skin should be cleansed regularly, have sufficient moisture, and always protected from the strong sun. Soap-and-water is an effective skin cleanser, but it is alkaline, and can upset the natural balance of the skin, pH 4.5-5.5. Sometimes this cause dryness, and the skin reacts by producing more oil, the result being greasy skin.

Choose soaps with nearly the same pH balance as the skin, or use cream cleanser and lotions which are very efficient for removing make-up and regime. Bath is unavoidable  for all of us, be it a cold winter or very hot summer. It could be a bath using medicated perfumed oil-based dry soap. Alternately, besan flour or moong dal powder which are prescribed for many facial masks and scrubs can be use instead of soap. Even masoor cal (another kind of lentil) can be used, instead of soap.

Each type of skin should be cleaned and nurtured accordingly. It is amazing how much dirt comes out when cleaning with a cleanser. By proper cleansing not only are dirt and dust removed but it also stop the oil-secreting sebaceous gland from getting clogged.

Before bathing use a body scrub to improve the circulation and remove dead skin cells, thereby smoothing the skin. Use a loofah or try a scrub of sea-salt or oatmeal. Granulated sugar mixed with oil is ideal for rubbing of elbows, knees or feet.

To nourish the skin, fill a muslin bag with bran or oatmeal, and soak it in the bath by hanging it from the tap so it can be used several times.