It’s no surprise that a lush natural environment is good for you – inside and out. Costa Rica’s unique microclimates and biodiversity have impressive benefits for your skin. Whether you’re booking luxurious spa appointments or you just want to know what to look out for on your other adventures, you’ll find new ingredients and practices that you might want to add to your everyday routine. Here are five elements you can seek out on your journey:
1. Volcanic Ash Mud
The lush land surrounding Costa Rica’s volcanoes is the source for some incredible beauty treatments. The minerals in the volcanic mud have antibacterial properties. It can help with inflammation and exfoliation, and if you’re dealing with breakouts, the mud can also clear up your skin.
Golden mud is a unique example of volcanic mud. It’s enriched with sulfur, zinc and magnesium. Sulfur helps with unclogging pores and eliminating bacteria. Zinc can promote cell renewal, which makes your skin look more vibrant. Magnesium is said to reduce irritation, enhance hydration and protect the skin barrier.
2. Rainforest Blue Clay
Sourced from – you guessed it – the rainforest, natural blue clay is high in minerals such as magnesium, calcium, boric acid and more. People who’ve tried it swear by its rejuvenating and regenerating properties for the skin. Others use the clay on their scalp to restore hair follicles. And, more practically, you can also use the blue clay to relieve discomfort from sunburns and bug bites.
3. Cacao
The Bribri, one of the Indigenous communities in Costa Rica, have long touted the healing properties of cacao. Cacao, which is naturally rich in flavanols, has been shown to increase moisture and reduce wrinkles. More good news: There are plenty of skin benefits you can get from eating cacao as well. Sometimes the universe really is working in our favor.
4. Hot Spring Waters
Sulfur in hot spring waters has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Similar to the volcanic mud, the mineral-rich water can help unclog pores and combat breakouts. Sitting in a hot spring can also improve circulation, and better circulation has been linked to improved complexion and texture.
5. Soft Sand
If you make your way to one of our beautiful beaches on your trip, a simple walk on the sand exfoliates the skin on your feet, leaving them softer and smoother. Clear the dead skin cells away while absorbing some healthy vitamin D from the sun. After you rinse off at home, apply some hydrating lotion to restore moisture.
On your trip to Costa Rica, you’ll see beautiful vistas and exciting wildlife. You might feel closer to nature and find a new appreciation for the world’s inherent wonders. Don’t forget to remind yourself that you are part of that beauty. Indulge in what makes you feel restored and nurtured. A beauty treatment isn’t only about the results; it’s also about the time you take to invest in yourself and let yourself relax. You deserve to feel great in your skin.