Beauty doesn't have to be expensive. Everything you need to make your own natural beauty products can be found right in your kitchen. Whether you want to avoid the chemicals in
commercial beauty products, save money, or live a greener life, you can create a complete beauty regimen with a few simple, natural ingredients.
The Basics for DIY Beauty ProductsWhen you're ready to raid your fridge, go for the three basics first. Honey, oatmeal, and eggs can be combined with a variety of ingredients to make natural hair products as well as natural skin care treatments.
Honey can MoisturizeThe benefits of honey are manifold. The water, carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins and
antioxidants that constitute honey make it an ideal hydration choice for both skin and hair.
Have dry skin? Honey is humectants—it pulls in and helps retain moisture. Pour some into a hot bath and soak in it. For even softer skin, add a little whole or powdered milk. When your bath is over, mix some honey with eggs and yogurt and apply liberally for a refreshing mask that will tighten and purify your skin.
Struggling with dry,
frizzy hair? Just add a little olive oil to your honey, egg and yogurt mixture, and turn your mask into a conditioner!
Oatmeal ExfoliatesOatmeal is a
natural exfoliate that can help soothe dry, itchy or irritated skin. As a bonus, the beta-glucose found in oatmeal aid in skin firming and regeneration and make oatmeal a perfect ingredient for a cleanser. Just mix with water and powdered milk or brewer’s yeast for a refreshing face wash.
Suffering from sunburn or summer mosquito bites? Add powdered oatmeal to a warm bath and soak in it for some quick relief.
Eggs Cleanse & StrengthenEggs are a versatile base for many beauty products, from scrubs to masks to hair conditioners. The lysozymes contained in egg whites fight bacteria and help cleanse skin. A mask made of egg whites and honey will draw out impurities and clear up
blackheads while also smoothing, firming and hydrating.
Eggs are also chock full of protein, which, when used as a base for shampoo or conditioner, will strengthen and add volume to your hair.
Assemble Your Ingredients…And Experiment!The best thing about making your own beauty products is the endless way to combine ingredients. Gather your do-it-yourself basics and some fruits and vegetables and go wild! Put cucumbers or potatoes over your eyes; slather mayonnaise in your hair; mix egg whites and lemon juice for a toner; the possibilities—and benefits—are endless.