The empress Cleopatra was legendary not only for her leadership over one of the ancient world's most powerful empires which was Egypt. She was also known for her astonishing beauty. It is said that the queen had secret skin care recipes that she used to retain her youthful and glowing skin. According to historians, she regulalrly soaked herself in a bath tub filled with rose petals and milk. The specially prepared bath mixture kept her skin soft and moisturized even in the middle of the Egyptian desert.

People of the Old World actually used a number of different natural materials as organic skin care treatments. Honey is another ingredient that was used by Cleopatra and other people who lived during ancient times. As with many common pantry items, honey has made its name as a sugar replacement and natural remedy for various ailments. In the past, it was also used as a natural skin moisturizer not only by Egyptians but also by the Greeks. Like honey, olive oil was also used as part of an all-natural skin care recipe.

At present, these natural products are being packaged and marketed by lage companies who deal in skin care lines. They have created new products that serve as moisturizers, exfoliants, toners, all from nature-based substances. These companies have captured a large chunk of the skin care market due to the promise of producing hypo-allergenic, chemical-free natural products for skin care.

However, aside from choosing an effective, all-natural product, both men and women should also consider the following:

Today, almost all people know that most soaps contain harsh chemicals that dry the skin. Harsh soaps strip the natural oils from the skin and destroy the barriers that serve as protection from daily sun exposure and other harmful elements in the environment. Knowing this, it is important to be aware of products or have the ability to produce products that can be used for skin care, specifically for one's face. A homemade facial wash would be a much gentler and more affordable option. Not only does washing one's face remove dead skin cells, oil build up,and impurities, it also helps improve circulation, protects against break-outs, and stimulates skin cell renewal.

Natural skin care recipes do not usually include a foaming agent. But in case one wants some foaming action, simply add a small dab of a rich emollient-based face wash product. Oily skin types want to lean towards a facial cleanser that has an acid base such as a citrus ingredient while sensitive skin benefits from the healing properties provided by aloe vera and green tea. Making one's own natural facial cleanser ensures that the daily build'up of dirt is gently washed away without stripping away the skin's essential natural attributes. In order to maximize the benefits of using a natural facial cleanser, apply the homemade recipe to warm moist skin. Use a circular motion to gently massage the skin with the cleanser, then rinse well. This face wash strategy will ensure a deep cleansing of clogging dirt from the pores which will then leave the skin clean, soft and supple.

One does not need to be a queen like Cleopatra to have good skin. It only takes having a balanced and healthy diet, good hygiene, and the use of gently, natural skin care products. Human beauty can be improved or maintained with the help of Nature and all the beauty secrets it holds.