Who needs to spend a fortune at the skin care counter when some of the best products are hiding in plain sight in your kitchen? Natural skin care can save not just your hard earned cash, but also nasty chemicals hiding in many popular products. Here are our top tips for a naturally glowing complexion:
Coconut oil: Full of fatty acids and naturally anti-bacterial, coconut oil works brilliantly as a makeup remover, cleanser and moisturiser. We've also tried it as an alternative to shaving cream, and heel balm - its uses are endless! Look for extra-virgin, cold-pressed, organic, sustainable coconut oil in your supermarket or health store.
Apple cider vinegar Truly a small miracle in your cupboard. Apple cider vinegar contains malic acid; a powerful antibacterial and antifungal agent making it great for containing breakouts. It also helps restore your skin’s natural pH level, which is slightly acidic, and can help regulate oil production. Even better, it contains AHAs that gently exfoliate the skin and decongest pores. Apply as a toner of 1 part vinegar to 2 parts water after cleansing. Deep cleaning your hair with apple cider vinegar reduces product build up, and helps manage greasy hair problems. Pour a cup over your head after shampooing and massage through the scalp and hair. Alternatively, follow Miranda Kerr’s advice and use a splash to add shine before conditioning. Remember to buy a good quality vinegar; it should be raw, organic, unfiltered, unpasteurised and it should contain something called 'The Mother. It should appear cloudy and smell very strongly – the more pungent, the better!
Natural Greek Yoghurt: Greek Yoghurt contains lactic acid, found in many anti-aging products for its ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The lactic acid gently exfoliates, while the pro-biotics present in natural yoghurt soothe and calm the skin. Jessica Alba combines yoghurt with coffee grounds and coconut oil for added pep and moisture.
Cucumbers: The beauty cliché of cucumber under the eyes has real science behind it. Cucumbers are rich in ascorbic acid, which decreases water retention. To reduce redness and puffiness under the eyes, place slices of fresh cucumber under your eyes for about 15. This is another Kerr favourite, who reports using cold mashed cucumbers as a facemask to refresh her skin.
Oatmeal: Old fashioned oatmeal is a fantastic remedy to reduce irritation caused by skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or just dry skin. Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, reportedly uses humble oatmeal as a beauty go-to. Make a mask by grinding the oatmeal into a fine powder. Then mix it with water or any other ingredients (avocado, honey or yoghurt have fantastic benefits) to make a skin calming mask. Add an oatmeal sachet to your bath by tying a cupful in a tea-towel for soft, soothed skin all over.
