Why shell out those hard earned dollars on costly beauty products when natural ones can be found right in anyone’s kitchen pantry? Here is a list of 8 fabulous ways to use household ingredients as part of a beauty regimen, for only a fraction of the price.
1. Brown Sugar
The fine granules of brown sugar work great as an exfoliant. It can even be made into a body and face scrub by using equal parts of the brown sugar mixed with coconut, sesame (or olive) oil, with a bit of scented essential oil added for a more relaxing experience. Brown sugar also helps detoxify the skin due to its antibacterial properties.
2. Avocados
A mashed avocado mixed with a bit of water makes an excellent mask, as it contains natural oils that will brighten the skin. It is also an antioxidant, and is high in amino acids, which makes it great for reducing the signs of aging, as well as being a wonderful moisturizer for dry skin.
3. Organic Yogurt and Oatmeal
Organic yogurt contains lactic acid, which can moisturize and exfoliate the skin. Oatmeal is full of beta-glucans, which smooth and tighten the skin when applied as a facial mask. Mix them together, smooth them over the face, and then after 5 minutes, rinse it off with warm water. The skin beneath will be soft, refreshed, and glowing.
4. Turmeric
Though mainly used as a tasty addition to curry, this spice is great for killing the bacteria that causes acne, as well as reducing any excess oils produced in the skin. Turmeric is also added to the acne treatment ingredients list of many commercial acne treatment creams. A simple paste made of Turmeric and water can make an excellent spot-treatment for any blemishes on the face.
5. Tea Bags
After brewing a pot of caffeinated tea, let 2 of the bags cool, and place them beneath the eyes where dark circles usually develop. They can also be put into the fridge before use, as the cold will help to reduce the swelling quicker. The blood vessels will shrink, reducing the puffiness, thanks to the natural caffeine in the tea bags.
6. Bananas
Bananas are highly beneficial for faster hair growth because they are packed with Vitamins A, E, and C. They are a natural moisturizer, and can be used either mashed up by themselves, or mixed with sour cream and honey, to make a soothing facial mask. They are also terrific for those with dry hair. When mixed with an avocado, it can be applied to damp hair, and left on for half an hour for a thorough deep treatment.
7. Coconut Milk and Coconut Oil
Coconut milk is very effective in hydrating dry, dull hair. Mix half of a cup with one medium-size crushed avocado and massage evenly through dry hair, leaving in for 20-30 minutes before washing out. Coconut oil is also a great natural hydrator for body and hair.
8. Apple Cider Vinegar
There are two uses for apple cider vinegar in a natural beauty regimen. The first is to rinse the hair with it after shampooing, but before conditioning, to give the hair noticeably higher levels of shine and body. The second use is as a facial toner. 2 parts water and 1 part vinegar can be applied to the face after cleansing to brighten the skin, then moisturize the face as usual.
Conclusion
For those looking for natural and healthy products to add to their beauty treatments, the pantry will never look the same again, thanks to these 8 items and their many fabulous uses. They are cheaper than store-bought products, and have no added chemicals to harm the areas they are used on. Just be sure not to forget that these products can be used in the kitchen as well as the bathroom.
