These days, society seems to be all about healthy alternatives, whether that’s in your cooking pantry, your medicine cabinet, or your makeup bag. The organic and natural replacement fad has gained more attention in recent years, but those who are devoted to the practice have developed a slew of healthy and eco-friendly alternatives to mainstream luxury beauty products. Most of these all-star ingredients can be found in your own kitchen, so if you’ve been thinking about jumping on the all-natural bandwagon, gives these healthy choices a try!
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is largely regarded as the superstar of natural beauty ingrediens, thanks to its many different uses. Aside from being a versatile cooking ingredient, coconut oil can meet an array of cosmetic needs, as well. Its rich consistency makes it an ideal alternative to your mainstream, store-bought moisturizers. Applying it directly to your body after bathing helps your skin retain moister in a healthy, chemical-free way. The fatty acids will help with wrinkles and dry skin— and since it’s naturally antibacterial, using coconut oil as a moisturizer won’t cause breakouts, meaning it’s safe to use on your face, as well.
The product’s consistency makes it an ideal replacement for massage oil and even eye makeup remover. For an all-natural deep conditioner, comb a small amount of the oil into your hair before bed, twist into a bun, and rinse in the morning. And when used sparingly, coconut oil can act as a flyaway tamer and a cheekbone highlighter.
Yogurt
If you have problem skin, yogurt may just become your new best friend. The dairy product has great cosmetic benefits, thanks largely to the lactic acid found in its makeup. This one element acts as a gentle exfoliator when you apply the yogurt as a facial, while also tightening pores to ward off fine lines and wrinkles. The acidity also brightens and smoothes the skin, fighting discoloration to leave you with an even tone. The zinc found in yogurt makes it a great natural remedy for sunburn, and its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties work as zit zappers and reducers of irritating breakouts. Basically, you can’t go wrong with a yogurt facial, but always make sure to test products for allergies— including food— on a small area of skin before slathering it on your whole visage.
Eggs
Yep, that’s right. Eggs can be used as a hugely versatile ingredient in your beauty regime— which means that you may be paying way too much money at the drug store for hair and skin products. Protein-packed egg whites can be used as a facial to tighten the skin— add honey and oatmeal to exfoliate and add an extra layer of moisture.
Whole eggs are also great ingredients for hair treatments— the yolk adds extra moisture to dry hair. For a rich hair mask that will add body and shine, beat a whole egg with the juice of one lemon. Leave it on your hair for at least 30 minutes to allow the egg’s protein to coat each strand of hair. After shampooing the mixture out, you’ll immediately notice a natural shine and softness. For a more conditioning formula, follow the same steps but sub the lemon juice for a tablespoon each honey and yogurt, plus one teaspoon of almond oil. Voila!
