Herbs That Soften Skin

Despite the wide variety of skin-softening products on the market, chemicals and preservatives may even cause skin irritation or sensitivity. To go back to the basics, you can use different herbs for natural skin-softening effects. You can soften your skin by adding herbs or herbal essential oils to pure body oil and use it to moisturize the skin.

Lavender

• One of the most popular aromas, lavender is found in beauty products such as shampoo, lotion and soap, according to the University of Maryland's Complementary and Alternative Medicine studies. Aside from its skin-softening effects, the herb and its calming aromas are used to treat other ailments such as mood disturbances, insomnia and anxiety. Lavender is ideal for use on the skin and is used by herbalists to treat fungal infections of the skin, acne and eczema, as well as to moisturize dry, scaly skin. To use, add 1 to 4 drops of lavender essential oil to a carrier oil, such as sweet almond oil. Rub it into the skin for moisturizing and softening. If you have sensitive skin, test before use by adding a few drops of the oil to the inside portion of the arm. Wait 15 minutes to ensure there is no redness or irritation.

Calendula

• According to the University of Maryland studies, calendula has elevated amounts of antioxidants known as flavonoids, which work to counteract the negative effect of free radicals on the skin. Aside from softening skin, the herb also features antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits. Use 2 percent to 5 percent calendula ointment found in apothecaries or natural food stores, and apply it to the skin three times a day for softening benefits. Calendula also helps in the healing of sunburn and wounds because it increases the flow of blood to affected areas, improving and speeding the healing process.

Comfrey

• This herb contains allantoin, which helps improve skin health and reduces occurrences of inflammation. The University of Maryland studies indicate that aside from allantoin, comfrey offers additional properties in the form of tannins and rosamarinic acid, both of which act as antioxidants on the skin to assist in rejuvenation. Use a topical ointment composed of 5 percent to 20 percent comfrey, found at apothecaries or natural food stores, on the skin each day for no longer than 10 days. Alkaloids found in the herb can be absorbed through the skin and will become toxic after long periods of use. Although comfrey is a skin-softening herb, use it under medical guidance of your personal physician.