by M.J. Holliday

Created on: December 12, 2010

Natural Bath Products for Dry Skin (Xerosis)

Weather, stress and pollution can damage and dry out the skin, and soap can be harsh. Sensitive skin can erupt in itchy dry patches or flaky blemishes. Here are some soothing natural remedies to soften and beautify dry skin.

1. Rose Water

Rose water has been used since the time of the ancient Persians to refresh tired skin and restore beauty and moisture to all skin types. Use fragrant rose water as a facial spritz or add rose water to the bath for a luxurious soak. In

aromatherapy, the sensual scent of rose brings romance and everlasting love. It's easy to make rose water at home.

How to Make Rose Water

You'll need:

• 1 cup fresh crushed rose petals

• 4 cups distilled water

• a pot with lid

• a strainer

• glass container(s) or bottles with corks or non-metal lids

Add rose petals and water to the pot. Bring to a boil. Cover and boil gently for 20-30 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool. Strain out rose petals and pour rose water into non-metal containers or bottles. In the refrigerator, rose water lasts about three months.

To make a facial treatment for dry skin, mix together one egg yolk, a teaspoon of orange juice, one teaspoon olive or almond oil, about a teaspoon of rose water, and a few drops of lime juice. Apply the face about fifteen minutes prior to taking a bath.

2. Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda)

Baking soda was first used by the ancient Egyptians for household cleaning purposes, but soon became popular for its skin-softening properties. Baking soda has a wealth of home and beauty uses, including:

• treatment for dry skin

• facial wash

• gentle exfoliant

• water softener

Added to shampoo or skin cleansers, baking soda enriches lather and adds gentle cleaning power to rid the skin and hair of impurities. Skin is more radiant, and hair is more lustrous.

For silky smooth skin, add 1/4 to 1/2 cup baking soda to the bath and dissolve well. Baking soda changes the pH balance to soften hard water and soothe dry, delicate skin.

3. Milk Bath

There's a striking photo by celebrity photographer Annie Leibovitz of Whoopi Goldberg, playful and half-submerged in a milk bath. A milk bath is a luxurious skin treatment used for centuries to beautify the skin. Cleopatra, Queen of the Nile, was known for bathing in milk and honey to maintain her youthful complexion.

To make a basic milk bath, simply pour whole milk into the bath water. Add fragrant rose water or oil of lavender

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