There are generally five basic skin types recognized in skincare:

1. Normal
2. Dry
3. Oily
4. Combination
5. Aged/Mature Skin

Here’s a brief overview of each type and some natural soaps and essential oils that may be beneficial:

1. Normal Skin
   • Natural soaps: glycerin-based soaps, goat milk soap
   • Essential oils: lavender, geranium, chamomile
2. Dry Skin
   • Natural soaps: shea butter soap, olive oil soap
   • Essential oils: rose, sandalwood, frankincense
3. Oily Skin
   • Natural soaps: tea tree oil soap, activated charcoal soap
   • Essential oils: tea tree, lemongrass, peppermint
4. Combination Skin
   • Natural soaps: castile soap, honey soap
   • Essential oils: Ylang-ylang, bergamot, neroli
5. Aged/Mature Skin
   • Natural soaps: goat milk soap, shea butter soap, collagen-enriched soaps
   • Essential oils: frankincense, rose, geranium, lavender

It’s important to note that everyone’s skin is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another, even within the same skin type category.

Oily/Acne-Prone Skin Soap

Oily skin is characterized by excess sebum production, which can lead to clogged pores and acne. Teenagers are particularly prone to this due to hormonal changes. The goal is to cleanse and balance the skin without over-drying, which can paradoxically lead to more oil production.

Natural Soaps for Oily, Acne-Prone Skin:

1. Tea Tree Oil Soap: Tea tree has natural antibacterial properties.
2. Activated Charcoal Soap: Helps absorb excess oil and impurities.
3. Clay Soaps (e.g., Bentonite or Kaolin): Can help draw out impurities and absorb excess oil.
4. Neem Oil Soap: Known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
5. Sulfur Soap: Can help reduce oiliness and fight acne-causing bacteria.

Essential Oils for Oily, Acne-Prone Skin:

1. Tea Tree Oil: Has antimicrobial properties that can help fight acne-causing bacteria.
2. Lavender: Can help balance oil production and has calming properties.
3. Lemongrass: Has astringent properties that can help control oil.
4. Rosemary: May help regulate oil production and has antimicrobial properties.
5. Juniper Berry: Can help detoxify the skin and reduce excess oil.
6. Clary Sage: May help balance oil production and reduce inflammation.

Vitamins for Acne-Prone Skin

1. Vitamin B3
   • Niacinamide – good for skin, inflammation, arthritis, anxiety
   • Niacin – good for cholesterol, fatty liver

Benefits of Natural Approaches:

1. Gentler on Skin: Natural products often have fewer harsh chemicals that can irritate sensitive or acne-prone skin.
2. Balancing: Many natural ingredients help balance oil production rather than stripping the skin completely.
3. Additional Skin Benefits: Natural ingredients often contain antioxidants and vitamins that benefit overall skin health.
4. Reduced Risk of Resistance: Unlike some antibiotics used for acne, bacteria are less likely to develop resistance to natural antibacterial agents.

Usage Tips:

1. Don’t Over-Cleanse: Washing twice daily is usually sufficient. Over-cleansing can strip the skin and lead to more oil production.
2. Patch Test: Always test new products on a small area first to check for any adverse reactions.
3. Dilute Essential Oils: Never apply essential oils directly to the skin. Dilute in a carrier oil or unscented lotion.
4. Consistency: Skincare routines take time to show results. Consistency is key.
5. Holistic Approach: Consider diet, stress management, and overall health alongside topical treatments.
6. Avoid Touching Face: Remind teenagers to keep hands away from their face to prevent transferring bacteria.
7. Non-Comedogenic Products: Use skincare and makeup products labeled as non-comedogenic to avoid clogging pores.

Aged/Mature Skin Soap

Aged or mature skin typically requires extra care due to reduced natural oil production, loss of elasticity, and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The focus is often on hydration, nourishment, and gentle treatment.

Some key points for aged skin care:

1. Hydration is crucial. Look for moisturizing ingredients in soaps and skincare products.
2. Antioxidants can help combat free radical damage. Some essential oils like frankincense are rich in antioxidants.
3. Gentle cleansing is important to avoid stripping the skin of its natural oils.
4. Products that support collagen production can help maintain skin elasticity.

Collagen Production Essential Oils

Several essential oils are believed to support collagen production or at least help maintain skin elasticity. Here are some of the most commonly cited:

1. Frankincense: Known for its potential to promote cell regeneration and reduce the appearance of age spots and wrinkles.
2. Geranium: May help improve skin elasticity and tighten skin.
3. Lavender: Can help reduce oxidative stress, which may indirectly support collagen production.
4. Carrot Seed: Rich in antioxidants, it may help protect existing collagen from damage.
5. Rosehip: While technically a carrier oil, it’s rich in vitamin C which is crucial for collagen synthesis.
6. Neroli: May help improve skin elasticity and promote cell regeneration.
7. Sandalwood: Known for its anti-aging properties, it may help with skin regeneration.
8. Ylang-ylang: Can help improve skin elasticity and promote cell turnover.
9. Jasmine: May help increase skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
10. Lemon: Rich in vitamin C, which is essential for collagen production. Remember, citrus oils cause hyperpigmentation (discolored spots) so avoid sun exposure when using. Recommend applying before bed.

It’s believed these oils are have beneficial properties for skin health and potentially collagen production.

Acne Scar Soap

Apply vitamin-e oil to the face nightly to remove acne scars.

Suggestions: Vitamin E oil, Vitamin A with retinol, castor oil, rosehip oil, shea butter, garlic, microdermabrasion, evening primrose oil, tea tree oil, avocado oil