In the past, we’ve talked about feeding the skin, so this is where we put it to the test with some DIY natural skin care. Whether you’ve unexpectedly run out of your favorite product or simply curious to try something new, do-it-yourself skin care is as close as your kitchen. And frankly, if it’s something I’m making myself, the simpler the recipe, the better. Here are a few that are easy enough to whip up on a whim:
Sugar scrub for the body: Mix ½ cup brown sugar plus ¼ cup coconut or olive oil with a few drops of essential oil if you’ve got it on hand. Otherwise, just two ingredients found in any kitchen are enough to get you an effective and natural body scrub that gets rid of winter skin and preps you for spring and summer.
Toner: Combine 1 part raw, unpasteurized apple cider vinegar and 2 parts water for a homemade toner that’s good for oily and acneic skin. Dampen a cottonball and gently rub over the skin to remove any residue of cleanser or leftover dirt. Don’t worry about the smell: it dissipates quickly.
Moisturizer: Coconut oil. That’s it. Nothing could be simpler! Plus, coconut oil makes a great makeup remover. Just keep in mind that as a moisturizer a little goes a long way, so when applying it to your face, start by rubbing a small amount between your fingers and patting onto your skin, allowing time for absorption.
Cleanser: Instead of resorting to a bar of soap, try using honey. It may sound odd, but a teaspoon of honey patted over the skin and left on for 10 minutes will rinse off easily with warm water, leaving your skin feeling clean and refreshed. With its anti-inflammatory properties, honey makes an ideal cleanser even for sensitive skin.
Mask: Yogurt has been a staple in face masks forever, and for very good reason. It contains lactic acid, a natural exfoliant that removes the buildup of dead skin cells that can dull the complexion. Want to kick it up a notch? Combine two tablespoons of yogurt plus a 1 teaspoon of honey for extra pampering. If dry skin is your main concern, try mashing half a ripe avocado and adding a teaspoon of honey for a hydrating (and delicious!) mask.
Although the idea of all-natural is appealing, there are two products that are absolutely irreplaceable for me: my sunscreen and retinal serum. I don’t think there is anything in my kitchen cupboards or fridge that can give me the same protection or anti-aging results. However, if you have a secret recipe you want to share, you know who to call.
