Hi R.!
My post will be lengthy but hope that what I share will help you (and other readers) as much as it's helped me.
I picked up this book called "Beauty Secrets of the Bible" by Ginger Garrett. It's wonderful!
She give recipes in the book for the most natural and cost effective skin care available. I have always had dry skin as I'm bi-racial and have literally spent hundreds of dollars on products that haven't worked including Mary Kay & Avon, no offense intended. I experienced dramatic results within a week! I will NEVER EVER buy another commercial cosmetic product again that is how convinced and happy I am. It's been a month and a half and my skin has never felt this soft and smooth and flake free!
NOTE: Ginger offers her recipes on her website so I'm not scared to share them here publicly. www.gingergarrett.com
Step One: Wash and Exfoliate
1 c. powdered goat's milk (any powdered milk works really)
1 c. quick-cooking oats
Process in a blender or food processor until VERY fine. I actually put the oatmeal into a coffee grinder because it makes it finer. Then I mix it into the milk powder.
*If you have dry skin like I do...add 1/2 to 1 c. ground flaxseed to the mixture. I buy a big bag of whole seed from the bulk bin at Whole Foods...very cheaply too I must say. Then I grind them in the coffee grinder and stir into the powder.
To wash, simply sprinkle a quarter size amount into you hand, mix into a paste with warm water, massage onto face, and rinse. Keep face damp for the next step.
Step 2: Nourish and Plump
Apply 1-2 drops honey to wet fingertips and massage onto wet face. Do not rinse. You can pat dry if needed. Amazingly enough...This works WONDERS! and no.. no stickiness either.
Step 3: Moisturize and Protectt
Put a few drops of extra-virgin organic olive oil onto your hand...rub your hands together and then pat the oil onto your face. I rub it into my face 'cuz I love the moisture. This is good for your hands too.
That's it.
It takes so little ingredients that I am anticipating the extra money I'll save in contrast to spending $30 a bottle on this, $20 a bottle on that.
Ginger has a few more wonderful recipes & tips in the book so if you want them....buy it. It's worth its weight in gold.
P.S. I'm editing this message to add another tip.
Feel like splurging on some 'mommy, quiet, me time'? Then take the wash mixture and make yourself a milky,creamy, hot bath. It's LOVELY! and my skin loves it too.
Oh, and I simply must add that I do not miss the pain of accidentally getting soap into my eyes or mouth. Rather, I intentionally sometimes lick my lips after the honey...yummy!