Inflammation is the way the body responds to injury, irritation, and infection. It may manifest as bumps, blisters, redness, burning, itching, flaking, and/or dryness. Nearly everyone experiences skin irritation on occasion. If you suffer from eczema, chronic acne or psoriasis, you know that choosing the right skin care products is essential for calming rough, itchy skin on a daily basis.

For those with sensitive skin, even products specifically engineered to be gentle may cause issues. There are a variety of natural ingredients that can soothe irritated skin, whether you suffer from acute or chronic problems. Here are natural ingredients with anti-inflammatory benefits.

ALOE

Containing antioxidants, enzymes, and vitamins A and C, not only can aloe help certain types of acne, but also can alleviate itchiness and inflammation associated with psoriasis and eczema.

GREEN TEA

The majority of the polyphenols in green tea are catechins, which function as cancer-fighting and anti-inflammatory agents. EGCG, an antioxidant, is also abundant in green tea. It helps protect and rejuvenate skin cells, combating aging.

CHAMOMILE

While known for its calming traits when used as a tea, chamomile extract also reduces inflammation. When used in creams and lotions, it soothes irritation while helping cleanse and moisturize damaged skin.

VITAMIN C

A potent antioxidant, vitamin C can reduce hyperpigmentation and prevent redness, even after spending time in the sun. Other formulations can also improve the skin’s photoaging protection and boost collagen to improve the appearance of aging skin.

VITAMIN E

This fat-soluble antioxidant occurs naturally in the body. When applied topically, it may act as an anti-inflammatory in addition to its anioxidant properties. Vitamin E acts as a stabilizer for other nutrients, such as vitamin C.

NEEM

Neem has long been known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can soothe irritated and inflamed skin. It’s even safe for sensitive or irritated facial skin and other areas affected by psoriasis and eczema.

While many are aware of the benefits of aloe, green tea, chamomile, vitamins C and E, and neem, few know the powerful benefits of sea buckthorn. Sea buckthorn is a powerful little berry packed with nutrients that have many incredible results. An accepted remedy in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicines, the leaves, seeds, and flowers of the sea buckthorn plant have been used since ancient times.

The berries have a hefty nutrient content, and the oil is extracted from the fruit as well as the seeds. Containing an exceptional concentration of natural anti-aging vitamin C (12 times higher than that of an orange!), its oil also contains more vitamin E than other plant-based oils.

When applied on the skin, sea buckthorn berry oil does not leave an oily residue since it is quickly absorbed. Topically applied sea buckthorn oil provides numerous skin benefits.

• Promotes elasticity
• Enhanced skin hydration
• Enables cell regeneration
• Reduces and prevents acne
• Reduces swelling and redness associated with inflammatory skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea

With a plethora of nutrients and phytonutrients, sea buckthorn has become a highly beneficial multi-purpose resource to address a variety of conditions. People ingest sea buckthorn to:

• Bolster heart health
• Protect against diabetes
• Boost the immune system
• Help fight cancer cells
• Reduce reaction to chemotherapy
• Improve digestion
• Protect the skin
• Lower cholesterol
• Treat intestinal and stomach diseases
• Reduce inflammation

Along with other natural anti-inflammatory ingredients, sea buckthorn berry oil is a key ingredient in Soothing Nutrient Complex (link to its shop page), Purifying Detox Masque, Soothing Barrier Ointment, and other skincare products by Skin Wise Organics.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock / By Soyka