You know the phrase “You are what you eat”? The one that well-meaning people use all the time to tell us to eat good for our health? It’s actually, well, true. The basis for good health is good food. And similarly, the foundation for beauty is good health. Even the most expensive skin and beauty products can’t outwork poor nutrition. What we eat and drink, and the healthy habits we practice greatly impact how we look and feel. Exercising regularly, eating more vegetables, and drinking water and green juices for example, is the key to glowing younger-looking skin, healthy hair and strong nails.
What well-meaning people have also discovered along the way is that many of the healthy foods we eat, are not just for eating! When applied topically, they can impart some great benefits to our skin, hair and nails. From scrubs and masks to cleansers and moisturizers, slather on these DIY whole foods masks to give your skin, hair and nails a little boost—naturally.
Face Mask:
- Honey, Turmeric, Lemon & Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
Honey is the queen of natural beauty remedies. Due to its antibacterial and hydrating properties, honey is incredibly beneficial for the skin –particularly dry and acne-prone skin.
When mixed in with turmeric, which has amazing anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antioxidant and astringent properties; lemon which is high in vitamin-C, supporting the production of collagen and boosting skin elasticity; and olive oil which has anti-aging properties helping to smooth out the skin and fight wrinkles; honey can make a decadent beauty mask that will make your skin glow.
Hair Mask:
- Apple Cider Vinegar
The natural alpha-hydroxy acids contained in apple cider vinegar makes this healthy kitchen staple great at removing the dirt and grime, and dead skin cells that tend to build up on our skin.
For a deep cleanse, mix in a ¼ cup baking soda, ¼ cup Apple cider vinegar into 1 cup of water and gently massage it into your scalp then rinse it out before shampooing. Alternatively, the magical elixir also makes a great rinse after conditioning, just dilute a couple tablespoons of apple cider vinegar per cup of water and use it to rinse your hair for an extra shine.
Apple cider vinegar also makes a great natural toner because it helps shrink the appearance of pores when applied to the face. Dip a cotton ball into your ACV rinse, and wipe over a cleansed face for a natural refresh.
Body Scrub:
- Coffee, Coconut oil, Sugar
The skin is the body’s largest organ, regularly exfoliating and moisturizing your skin can make you feel like a million bucks. Regular exfoliation not only helps many skin problems, it also increases blood circulation and unclogs pores, which in turn helps you to achieve healthy and glowing skin. This simple DIY body scrub will make you feel like you’ve had a pampering spa day in the comfort of your own home.
Mix equal amounts of coffee grinds, coconut oil and sugar together and use it to gently rub against your wet skin to remove dead skin cells. Follow it up with a rinse and your regular moisturizing routine, and enjoy how soft your new skin feels.