Many of us enjoy the familiar scent and flavor of peppermint in some form, especially during the winter months. For decades, even centuries, peppermint has been associated with a variety of health benefits. Today it remains high in rank on the proverbial definition list of the holiday season.
Maybe you’ll make a batch of the popular chocolatey-peppermint bark for a neighbor, or frequent the drive-thru at your favorite coffee shop for a minty latte fix.
Whether you’re defusing it throughout the kitchen from the glow of a candle or embellishing a festive tree with the red and white striped candy canes, there is something about its charisma that brings comfort and a little added joy to the end of each calendar year.
LITTLE FACTS ABOUT PEPPERMINT
Peppermint (Mentha piperita) is a hybrid mint, a cross between water mint and spearmint. It is thought to have originated in Northern Africa and the Mediterranean. Its usage for medicinal purposes dates back to 1550 BC, where Egyptian medical text lists it as a calming agent for stomach pain.
Besides the present-day nostalgia that surrounds the traditional candy cane, peppermint in oil form remains a natural cleanser that has antiseptic and antibacterial agents. Its cooling effect can soothe irritation and inflammations of the skin.
In oil form it can be applied topically or diffused for inhalation and the mint is known for its capability of reducing itching, easing muscle discomforts, and reducing the symptoms of a headache.
Amanda Shaw at Mystic Skin is incorporating peppermint into skincare sessions for her clients this month. She knows that stress and dry winter can have adverse effects on the skin, so monthly care is recommended.
Consider treating yourself, or gifting someone on your list, with a featured facial Amanda has named the Peppermint Patty. This calming, super-hydrating treatment consists of a chocolate mask with hints of peppermint scents to help set the tone for the drier days ahead. She will also be utilizing a good oil plane (derma plane) with facial oil this winter.
“This helps get rid of the dead skin and allows for better product absorption,” Amanda said.
Winter facials will be finished with a hydrating serum, a creamy SPF, and lip balm. Her advice for maintaining¡ that glowing feeling this winter is to use skincare products correctly and consistently while maintaining a healthy diet, including drinking plenty of water.
As the hustle and bustle of the season touch each of us, even estheticians this time of the year, Amanda hopes to take time from her busy schedule to spend time with each of her parents before a house full of family arrives for Christmas. “I’m really excited to see everyone, gather together again, and make new memories this year,” she said. Just as important, she is planning to carve out a little time for herself to engage in meditation to keep her stress levels low and her mental health on track during this busy holiday season.
Mystic Skin Esthetics and Reiki is located at 3654 N. Power Road, Building 5, Suite 133, Salon 21. Call Amanda Shaw to schedule an appointment at (480) 818-2625.