Hands up if Summer is your favourite season of the year. Who can argue with sun, sand, and surf, right? The bad news is that all of those elements can wreak havoc on your skin [1]. Humidity, heat, sun exposure, and wind exposure can all contribute to skin that isn't its cutest (think sunburn, blemishes, blotchiness, and dry skin [2], to name just a few potential issues).
Luckily, we've got you covered with everything you need to know to fix your skin with plants grown [3] on your balcony or in your garden. That's right: no need to drop by the pharmacy for a new skincare product. These natural botanicals will have your skin glowing in no time. (Note: Before considering any herbal remedy, please consult your GP.)
Roses
Much more than a pretty flower, roses [4] are a classic skincare ingredient. They're particularly clever at helping to moisturise dry skin, and skin blemishes can also benefit from the antiseptic and astringent properties of roses. Find your skin is a little too red for your liking? Roses' anti-inflammatory properties can tone it down. While roses need at least six hours of direct sun a day, dozens of varieties thrive in pots, so you can choose a favourite from any of these.
Lavender
Lavender [5] is another go-to skin botanical. It's also supereasy to grow and thrives in containers. Rely on lavender if you need help sleeping on hot Summer nights (it has natural sedative properties) or add it to creams, lotions, or toners to assist with inflammation or skin healing. Try this DIY lavender skin cream [6] to both hydrate and relax before bed.
Rosemary
Rosemary [7] may be your favourite herb to use while Summer barbecuing, but it can also help with everything from skin elasticity to collagen development and skin moisturising. Since it's also packed with minerals that help with external skin damage, it's perfect for Summer skin that's been out in the sun for a little too long. Used in an oil infusion, it's great to add to a cleanser, or simply dilute it in water for a cleanser.
Speedwell
With flowers that bloom in a range of colours from lavender to deep purple to pinks and beyond, speedwell [8] is as pretty as it is useful. Speedwell can be found throughout Europe and the United States and is both cultivated and also found in the wild in grassy open spaces. This plant is rich in vitamins, tannins, and aucubin, an iridoid glycoside found in medicinal plants that has been reported to show an anti-inflammatory effect. Extracts made from speedwell are helpful for treating eczema. Use it in skin ointments for irritations, such as Summer rashes or chafing, or to help heal cuts and abrasions from your latest Summer outdoor adventuring.
Lady's Mantle
Popular during the middle ages in Europe for everything from menstrual cramps to digestion, lady's mantle [9] deserves another opportunity to shine. Lady's mantle is packed full of powerful antioxidants, salicylic acid [10], tannins, phytosterols, and essential oils as well as many minerals and vitamin C. In fact, its high level of antioxidants can help reduce free radicals that lead to cell damage, which can reduce premature ageing. Additionally, many over-the-counter acne medicines contain salicylic acid, which is used to prevent and treat acne, but lady's mantle contains it naturally. Also try it on any skin abrasions, including sunburns, rashes, and even bug bites. The plant's antimicrobial properties also lend to quick healing.
Thyme
A member of the mint family, thyme [11] is closely related to oregano and has been used for thousands of years for medicinal and culinary applications. It's also great for your skin. Try thyme tinctures as a remedy for acne (this study [12] indicates that it may work better than acne treatments with benzoyl peroxide). It can also help alleviate sunburns or rashes. Chock-full of antioxidants, thyme oil can also impede the ageing process and aid in achieving glowing, healthy skin.
Echinacea
Also known as coneflower, echinacea comes in a variety of colours [13] and are a welcome floral addition in your garden. Make sure to cut back spent flowers to promote reblooming in your garden. Echinacea is also great for your skin, tackling everything from reducing inflammation to helping acne breakouts to speeding up healing. Medical studies have also shown [14] that echinacea can help reduce oxidative stress and promote skin hydration. Add it to homemade creams or lotions for optimal skin benefits.