owadays, in our eco-sensitive fashion world, people are reaching out more and more for the natural, organic and everything-free or nearly-free beauty products. Not only to save the environment, but also to save a bit of hard earned cash, try using these simple items that can be found in nearly every kitchen, and opt for a simple, Do-It-Yourself beauty project:
Avocados: If you have super dry hair, this is the fruit for you! Avocados are used in commercial hair and skincare products for their amazing moisturizing properties. The trick is to buy the fruit very ripe. Mix it in the blender along with a half teaspoon of olive oil until it becomes a smooth paste, otherwise it will be hard to get out of your hair! As for how long to keep on, recommendations vary: from 30 minutes to 2 hours for a really deep conditioning treatment.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It has been recommended to help restore pH balance, kill bacteria and create smoother cuticles. 1/3 cup of apple cider vinegar mixed with 1 qt of water, poured over your hair in the shower as a post-conditioner rinse to lock in moisture and shine, as well as protecting color and removing product build-up. Also recommended for skin: pour some in a spritzer bottle, and use it as a facial toner to sop up extra oil and to regulate your skins pH levels. Dab some on ruddy cheeks or inflamed skin to take down redness and make your skin look fresh, even in severe conditions.
Honey: Honey has been said to be a natural antiseptic, antifungal, and a fantastic humectant, preserving moisture in the skin. Try dabbing a bit over acne scars to speed the repair process, or mix a small amount in with your conditioner for a moisturizing and great-smelling hair mask.
Potatoes: Recommended to help reduce swelling and puffiness. Using a vegetable peeler, shred a small amount of potato, let it chill in the fridge for a while, and then place the chilled potato under your eyes, and wait for 15 minutes.
Yogurt: Said to be a fantastic moisturizing agent as well as a skin exfoliant. Could be used as a cooling facial mask to wake up dull, tired, or dry winter skin. A popular treatment to sunburn. Keep on for about 15 minutes. Cranberry Juice: Pure cranberry juice is said to help keep hair shining and lustrous. For hair it can be used as a post conditioner rinse: pour over damp hair, massage in for a minute or two, and then let it sit for a few minutes.
Egg Yolks: They're supposed to be amazing for your hair: rich in vitamins A, D, E and B, which strengthens hair and prevents hair loss, dandruff, leaving your hair shiny and healthy. Mix 2 egg yolks with 2 tbsp of sesame or almond oil and a tsp of honey, can also add a dash of lemon. Wet hair then use the mixture to massage on your scalp and hair. Wrap hair in a towel or shower cap for 20-30 minutes then shampoo out. But make sure not to rinse with very hot water, to avoid, ahem, cooking the eggs on your head.
Salt: Natural sea salt is a great exfoliant and healing agent. Using small circular motions, rub down your entire dry body with salt before your shower for a fantastic glow, but make sure to use a rich moisturizer afterwards and dont rub very hard to not anger your skin.
Caution: Some products that are recommended by recepies can have side effects of odor, such as yogurt. So test these out before going out for a big date or something. Do not keep them around for very long and avoid going out into direct sunlight directly afterwards. Also keep away from products you could be allergic to. This is a collection of recommendations from a variety of people and their experiences. It is not a medical advice and we do not guarantee results. Please check with your doctor for medical advise.