Five Secret Beauty Ingredients Found in Your Kitchen

Your kitchen is full of ingredients that aren’t just good for your nutritional health, but can also be beneficial to your skin and hair.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is the most abundant natural source of medium chain fatty acids (MCFAS). Coconut oil is extraordinarily high in the C12 chain of MCFAS, known as lauric acid. This aids in preventing protein loss in hair, thereby keeping your precious locks strong. Its antibacterial and anti-microbial properties nourish the scalp and help remove sebum buildup from your hair follicles. In some cases, this may improve hair growth.

For best results apply to clean wet hair, cover for 20 minutes (use heat, a hot towel or just a seat out in the sunshine), rinse, then follow with your favorite shampoo and conditioner.

Honey

Honey is infused with humectant properties that regulate and retain moisture in the skin. Honey has antibacterial benefits that help rid your skin of blackheads by removing dirt from your pores. As a bonus, honey helps to decrease the appearance of scars and increase healing in tissue regeneration, so it slows down the aging process and creates a beautiful glow.

For best results apply honey to clean dry skin, massage in gentle circular motion, and rinse with cool water after 20 minutes.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is packed with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties; it helps undo the damage caused by pollution, UV rays and chemicals. Oatmeal contains saponins (cleaning agents) so can be used as a mild skin cleanser. It leaves skin soft, smooth and radiant without stripping its natural oils.

For best results mix oatmeal with water or Greek yogurt and apply directly on the skin. Gently massage and rinse with lukewarm water.

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is packed with probiotics, natural enzymes and lactic acid. This natural healer will help restore your skin’s natural barrier after a sunburn.

For best results apply a thin layer of cold Greek yogurt directly on affected area. Add aloe vera gel and three drops of lavender oil for added healing benefits.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid and has a pH level close to your natural hair. Rinsing your hair with apple cider vinegar will help remove residue from product build-up and improve shine.

For best results add two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to one cup of water. Apply to clean wet hair, rinse and condition. Be careful not to get in your eyes!

Bonus Tip

Mix honey, Greek yogurt and oatmeal for a weekly facemask, and enjoy the anti-inflammatory, probiotic and microbial soothing properties of all three.

Note that anyone with any allergy or reaction to the products listed above should not use them in hair or skin treatments.