Homemade Face and Body Scrubs Recipes with the Use of Coffee

Coffee is not only one of our favorite energy drinks, but it also can become one of the amazing natural ingredients, that we can include in our beauty routine. Today, let me share with you some great homemade facial and body scrubs recipes with the use of coffee:

Coffee and sugar body scrub:

Mix 4 table spoons of coffee grounds (from freshly brewed coffee or collected from the previous one) with 2 table spoons of brown sugar, add 6 table spoons of olive oil (you can also use liquid coconut oil) and 1 table spoon of row honey.

The caffeine can be very helpful in diminishing cellulite and softening the skin, sugar will work as a gentle exfoliator, honey will nourish the skin and the oil will help hydrate and moisturise. Massage your wet skin (while in the shower) with this scrub in circular motions for couple of minutes, paying special attention to cellulite areas and places, where you have dry skin, then, rinse with water. Your skin will feel very soft, moisturized and smooth; dull skin will come alive and your body will acquire natural glow of smooth perfection.

Simple coffee body scrub:

Mix 4 table spoons of coffee grounds with 5 table spoons of olive oil (if you don’t have the oil, you can use liquid row honey instead), (if the scrub is too thick and difficult to work with – add a little bit of water) massage your skin with this scrub for couple of minutes while in the shower, concentrating on the areas with cellulite and dull skin, then, rinse with water and enjoy baby soft, beautiful and nourished body!

Note: When you massage your skin with a scrub, you help unclog pores and stimulate circulation, thus, allowing your skin to take all the benefits from your hydrating lotion. If you use a body scrub regularly, you can forget about unpleasant alligator skin on your legs forever!

Homemade facial coffee scrub for oily skin (with an option for dry skin):

Mix 1 table spoon of coffee grounds (from freshly brewed coffee) with 1 table spoon of plain yogurt. Gently massage your face with it (for one minute or two), then, rinse with lukewarm water.

If you have dry skin, you can make similar face scrub, but only, use a plain cream instead of yogurt.

Another variation of homemade facial coffee scrub for all skin types:

Mix 1 table spoon of oatmeal with warm water (couple of table spoons of warm water will do) and wait for 5-10 minutes, till oats turn into a soft paste; then, add 1 table spoon of coffee grounds (from freshly brewed coffee). Now, if your skin is dry, add 1 table spoon of cream, if your skin is oily or normal, add 1 table spoon of plain yogurt. Gently massage your face with this scrub for couple of minutes, then, rinse with lukewarm water. Your skin will feel nourished and soft, it will look healthy and glowing.

Coffee ice cubes:

If you want to give your skin a healthy glow, then, make some ice cubes from your freshly made morning coffee and wipe your face with it every morning. Applying ice cubes on your face will improve blood circulation, give your skin a fresh glow, shrink pores, prevent aging and appearance of wrinkles.

Note: Applying ice cubes directly on the skin might be harsh for certain skin types and can cause stress on delicate capillaries under the skin (especially, if your skin is sensitive), therefore, you can wrap an ice cube in a wash cloth before wiping your face with it. Avoid applying ice cubes on your face, if your skin is sensitive and is prone to various irritations and redress.

Regular use of facial and body scrubs can make your skin look/feel healthier and softer, because this treatment can help remove dead cells from the surface of the skin, thus, improving natural cells’ renewal process. Of course, you can buy a ready made scrub in the shop, but why not to use great ingredients straight from our kitchen?

SOURCE: Beautyandtips

10 Harmful Ingredients You Should Avoid in Your Skincare Products

Image: melancholiaphotography-2312503/Pixabay

Have you ever looked at a list of ingredients on your favorite foundation or moisturizer? Chances are, you only recognize a couple of them (Aqua is water, right?!) and that’s sort of scary. Most of the complex scientific ingredients are pretty safe, even if they’re very hard to pronounce. However, there are some ingredients that may be harmful to you and to the environment, and they’re more prevalent than you think. Keep reading for ten harmful skin care ingredients that you’ll be shocked to find out are used in some popular beauty products.

Parabens

Parabens have created quite a buzz in recent years, and you may have even heard of them – but do you know what they are? Basically, parabens are preservatives that are used widely in makeup and hair care products (like shampoo and conditioner), to help them maintain a longer shelf life. Parabens prevent the growth of bacteria, which is great when you’d rather not get an eye infection from your mascara. However, FDA studies have linked parabens to breast cancer, skin cancer, and other skin problems. Although the FDA hasn’t definitively concluded that parabens are harmful, it’s probably much better to be on the safe side. Plus, nowadays there are tons of products labeled as ‘paraben-free’, so it’s easy to choose the healthy alternative.

Sulfates

If you’re anything like us, all you’ve heard about sulfates is that many shampoos nowadays don’t have them (and want everyone to know). So, what are they? Sodium lauryl sulfate, more commonly known as sulfate, is a harsh chemical commonly found in toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and even in foundation. It’s used to make these products foam, but it can be the cause of acne, skin irritation, and even liver damage. On top of that, it’s harmful to sea life, such as fish, when it enters the ocean through our drainage. You’re probably better off without it!

Formaldehyde

Like the stuff you preserve dead bodies with? That was our initial reaction too. Gross. Just like formaldehyde preserves dead bodies from bacteria that will cause decomposition, it’s also used in beauty products (such as nail polish and eyelash glue) for the same purpose: extending the shelf life. While we probably don’t need to tell you how gross that is, studies have also shown that the inhalation of the chemical has been linked to cancer. The tricky part about formaldehyde is that it’s not always listed in the ingredients, because it’s actually a byproduct. To stay on the safe side, always do your research on the ingredient list before making a purchase.

DEET 

Deet is a chemical found in mosquito repellants, and (surprise, surprise) it’s just as toxic to humans as it is to those revolting little vampire flies. Long exposure of deet can even melt plastic! Studies have also shown that deet kills brain cells in rats (sad). We know what you’re thinking – it’s actually a difficult choice to make: deet or the mosquitos. Luckily, there are tons of non-toxic mosquito repellants on the market too – our favorite from Mountain Equipment Co-op has eucalyptus oil and lemongrass in it, so not only are you bite-free, you smell like a spa. Win-win!

Plastics

It makes sense to package skin care products in plastic, right? It’s cheap, durable, and recyclable. Especially if you’re as clumsy as us, glass is definitely out of the question, and metal is expensive and inconvenient (plus, who wants their lipstick to smell like metal?). Unfortunately, there’s a catch. Many cheap plastics have a product called BPA, which is a chemical that leaks out over time – straight into your skin care product. BPA has been linked to cancer, plus it increases estrogen – which some of us have more than enough of, thanks. If you truly can’t separate from your plastic-bottled favorite products, transfer them to a cool glass container or jar once you take them home. They’ll last just as long, and they’ll make your makeup counter look way more chic!

“Fragrance”

Yeah, what? We know this one sounds very vague, and it sort of is. Man-made chemical fragrances (as in, they’re synthetic and not naturally-occurring) are found in many beauty and skin care brands on the market. Just like BPA, fragrances can disrupt hormones (we’re good on the estrogen, thanks) – they’re also huge allergens and can even trigger asthma. Plus, none of us want to be that person in the office who overdoes it on the odors.

Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone is a bleaching product, meant to lighten skin. While skin lightening isn’t as popular in the beauty regimes of the western hemisphere, people everywhere use it to fix skin tone problems such as hyperpigmentation. Not only can hydroquinone cause a skin disease that turns your skin black (goodbye, chicken fajita lunch) some illegally imported brands even have quantities of mercury. You know, the red stuff in thermometers that’s poisonous? Yeah, that. We’ll stick with the skin we’ve got.

Triclosan

Yeah, we had to look this one up too. Turns out, it’s basically one of the ubiquitous agents used in antibacterial stuff. Hand soap, gels, and deodorant – you name it. The problem with it is that it can actually encourage bacteria to become stronger and more resistant to chemicals – which increases our risk of infection. This can lower your immune system, and possibly increase your allergies. On top of that, it can interfere with your hormones (why does every product try to mess with our estrogen? Seriously!). We’ll stick with the tea tree oil, thanks.

Oxybenzone

We really tried to stick to the stuff that’s three syllables or less, guys. Oxybenzone is a chemical found in sunscreen, but it’s super disruptive to hormone systems. It’s been linked to endometriosis in women, and reduced sperm counts in men. This chemical basically wants no one to have kids. It’s also been linked to breast cancer (due to the hormone stuff, we’re guessing) and even melanoma! In a sunscreen product! So be careful.

Petroleum products

Petroleum: it’s not just for your car! In fact, the companies that produce petroleum products actually make all of it in the same factory – that means that your Vaseline is created right next to engine oil and fuel. The cross-contamination can end up with the petroleum that you put on your body actually having impurities that are carcinogenic. On a far less terrifying note, it can also cause irritation. At the end of the day, we’re all going to face some confusing labels – just make sure to do your research and go for the shortest ingredient list you can find – the simpler, the better!

SOURCE: Beautyandtips

10 Harmful Ingredients You Should Avoid in Your Skincare Products

Have you ever looked at a list of ingredients on your favorite foundation or moisturizer? Chances are, you only recognize a couple of them (Aqua is water, right?!) and that’s sort of scary. Most of the complex scientific ingredients are pretty safe, even if they’re very hard to pronounce. However, there are some ingredients that may be harmful to you and to the environment, and they’re more prevalent than you think. Keep reading for ten harmful skin care ingredients that you’ll be shocked to find out are used in some popular beauty products.

Parabens

Parabens have created quite a buzz in recent years, and you may have even heard of them – but do you know what they are? Basically, parabens are preservatives that are used widely in makeup and hair care products (like shampoo and conditioner), to help them maintain a longer shelf life. Parabens prevent the growth of bacteria, which is great when you’d rather not get an eye infection from your mascara. However, FDA studies have linked parabens to breast cancer, skin cancer, and other skin problems. Although the FDA hasn’t definitively concluded that parabens are harmful, it’s probably much better to be on the safe side. Plus, nowadays there are tons of products labeled as ‘paraben-free’, so it’s easy to choose the healthy alternative.

Sulfates

If you’re anything like us, all you’ve heard about sulfates is that many shampoos nowadays don’t have them (and want everyone to know). So, what are they? Sodium lauryl sulfate, more commonly known as sulfate, is a harsh chemical commonly found in toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and even in foundation. It’s used to make these products foam, but it can be the cause of acne, skin irritation, and even liver damage. On top of that, it’s harmful to sea life, such as fish, when it enters the ocean through our drainage. You’re probably better off without it!

Formaldehyde

Like the stuff you preserve dead bodies with? That was our initial reaction too. Gross. Just like formaldehyde preserves dead bodies from bacteria that will cause decomposition, it’s also used in beauty products (such as nail polish and eyelash glue) for the same purpose: extending the shelf life. While we probably don’t need to tell you how gross that is, studies have also shown that the inhalation of the chemical has been linked to cancer. The tricky part about formaldehyde is that it’s not always listed in the ingredients, because it’s actually a byproduct. To stay on the safe side, always do your research on the ingredient list before making a purchase.

DEET 

Deet is a chemical found in mosquito repellants, and (surprise, surprise) it’s just as toxic to humans as it is to those revolting little vampire flies. Long exposure of deet can even melt plastic! Studies have also shown that deet kills brain cells in rats (sad). We know what you’re thinking – it’s actually a difficult choice to make: deet or the mosquitos. Luckily, there are tons of non-toxic mosquito repellants on the market too – our favorite from Mountain Equipment Co-op has eucalyptus oil and lemongrass in it, so not only are you bite-free, you smell like a spa. Win-win!

Plastics

It makes sense to package skin care products in plastic, right? It’s cheap, durable, and recyclable. Especially if you’re as clumsy as us, glass is definitely out of the question, and metal is expensive and inconvenient (plus, who wants their lipstick to smell like metal?). Unfortunately, there’s a catch. Many cheap plastics have a product called BPA, which is a chemical that leaks out over time – straight into your skin care product. BPA has been linked to cancer, plus it increases estrogen – which some of us have more than enough of, thanks. If you truly can’t separate from your plastic-bottled favorite products, transfer them to a cool glass container or jar once you take them home. They’ll last just as long, and they’ll make your makeup counter look way more chic!

“Fragrance”

Yeah, what? We know this one sounds very vague, and it sort of is. Man-made chemical fragrances (as in, they’re synthetic and not naturally-occurring) are found in many beauty and skin care brands on the market. Just like BPA, fragrances can disrupt hormones (we’re good on the estrogen, thanks) – they’re also huge allergens and can even trigger asthma. Plus, none of us want to be that person in the office who overdoes it on the odors.

Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone is a bleaching product, meant to lighten skin. While skin lightening isn’t as popular in the beauty regimes of the western hemisphere, people everywhere use it to fix skin tone problems such as hyperpigmentation. Not only can hydroquinone cause a skin disease that turns your skin black (goodbye, chicken fajita lunch) some illegally imported brands even have quantities of mercury. You know, the red stuff in thermometers that’s poisonous? Yeah, that. We’ll stick with the skin we’ve got.

Triclosan

Yeah, we had to look this one up too. Turns out, it’s basically one of the ubiquitous agents used in antibacterial stuff. Hand soap, gels, and deodorant – you name it. The problem with it is that it can actually encourage bacteria to become stronger and more resistant to chemicals – which increases our risk of infection. This can lower your immune system, and possibly increase your allergies. On top of that, it can interfere with your hormones (why does every product try to mess with our estrogen? Seriously!). We’ll stick with the tea tree oil, thanks.

Oxybenzone

We really tried to stick to the stuff that’s three syllables or less, guys. Oxybenzone is a chemical found in sunscreen, but it’s super disruptive to hormone systems. It’s been linked to endometriosis in women, and reduced sperm counts in men. This chemical basically wants no one to have kids. It’s also been linked to breast cancer (due to the hormone stuff, we’re guessing) and even melanoma! In a sunscreen product! So be careful.

Petroleum products

Petroleum: it’s not just for your car! In fact, the companies that produce petroleum products actually make all of it in the same factory – that means that your Vaseline is created right next to engine oil and fuel. The cross-contamination can end up with the petroleum that you put on your body actually having impurities that are carcinogenic. On a far less terrifying note, it can also cause irritation. At the end of the day, we’re all going to face some confusing labels – just make sure to do your research and go for the shortest ingredient list you can find – the simpler, the better!

Image: MK1_FIESTA-1240576/Pixabay
SOURCE: Beautyandtips

10 Easy DIY Exfoliating Scrubs You Will Love Using

The leaves are falling, and the air is chilling. Winter is coming, and it’s only a matter of time before your skin turns rough, dehydrated and uneven. There are a plethora of preventative measures you can take to avoid flaky, dull skin: hydrating, moisturizing, and even purchasing a humidifier for your home. However, for some of us it’s already too late to avoid the inevitable gloom of sad, dry, cold-weather skin. That means it’s time to bring in the big guns: exfoliation! Before you head to Sephora or Lush and drop tons of cash on some skin-refreshing products, why not try a DIY? We’ve put together a list of easy DIY exfoliating scrubs – from the most basic to the extremely luxurious – that you can make at home whenever your skin is in need of a good glow.

The lemon and sugar DIY exfoliating scrub

Because who doesn’t want to smell like a delicious French crepe? This exfoliating concoction is about as simple as it gets, and you probably have all the necessary ingredients on hand. Simple check your cupboards for olive oil, raw sugar (white will do), and fresh lemon juice. If you don’t have these ingredients, you should learn how to adult better. Once you’ve found your ingredients, simply mix, apply, and scrub gently! The sugar will do the exfoliation legwork, while the olive oil gives you skin a deep moisturize. The lemon will add a fresh scent, and has the added bonus of providing a natural bleaching effect – this is great for when you’ve lost your summer tan, and your body hair is looking a little more noticeable than you’d like!

The lavender sugar DIY exfoliating scrub

You may not have the Air Miles saved up quite yet, but no need – this scrub will transport you straight to the lavender fields of Provence. Gather a few springs of fresh or dried lavender, and crush. Combine with sugar, essential lavender oil, and sweet almond oil. Rub the mixture gently to exfoliate, and for some added aromatherapy, drop any extra product into a hot, steamy bath! You can hop in afterwards, close your eyes, and sink into the soothing floral scent. You might even forget that you aren’t in France.

The pumpkin spice DIY exfoliating scrub

Just because you don’t want your skin to be wintery, doesn’t mean your scrub can’t be! A warm, spicy, fragrant exfoliation scrub is the perfect way to embrace the season while keeping a healthy and happy glow to your skin. Plus, you can use the leftover ingredients to bake some delicious treats! You’ll need brown sugar, pumpkin puree, and vitamin E oil, as well as the following spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, cardamom, and ginger. The brown sugar will exfoliate, the vitamin E will heal and moisturize, and even the pumpkin is great for your skin – its enzymes act as a chemical exfoliant, while its antioxidants keep your skin nourished. As an added bonus, you’ll smell like Pumpkin Spice all day – just steer clear of hungry sorority girls!

Rosemary and mint DIY exfoliating scrub

If you’ve ever tried Aveda’s line of rosemary mint hair products, you’ll know that these two fragrances were made for each other. The warm herbal fragrance of Rosemary is a perfect complement to the fresh scent of mint. Take some fresh rosemary, and crush as finely as possible. Chop fresh mint and mix both together with sea salt and olive oil. Scrub yourself down, close your eyes, and pretend you’re at a spa!

The frankincense and orange DIY exfoliating scrub

This one is our all-time favorite, mainly due to the luxurious, spicy scent of frankincense that combines gorgeously with the fresh citrus. Sure, maybe we don’t all have frankincense readily available in the cupboard – but this scrub makes it well worth the purchase! Combine raw sugar, sweet almond oil, frankincense essential oil, and wild orange essential oil. The scent of frankincense is said to have anti-depressant and anti-aging properties, and wild orange is believed to be mood enhancing. Mix all your ingredients together, apply liberally, and enjoy feeling like an ancient queen.

The coffee DIY exfoliating scrub

Is there anything greater than the smell of coffee in the morning? Our caffeine-deprived brains think not. As for the caffeine-deprived among you, this scrub requires very little thinking at all. Combine coffee grinds with honey, coconut oil, and a few drops of vanilla extract. The coffee can help to combat cellulite, and even the smell of coffee has been shown to improve alertness. Honey has tons of great anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and it smells great! For a morning jolt, use this scrub in the shower, and come out feeling refreshed and alert.

The avocado and oatmeal DIY exfoliating scrub

Not only is this scrub nourishing for your skin, it is entirely edible! Win-win, we think. Mash an avocado, and add raw, finely milled oatmeal to your preferred consistency. Oatmeal is great for your skin – it reduces redness and is particular soothing for problems like eczema and rosacea. Avocado is chock full of vitamins, fatty acids, and antioxidants, so it will moisturize you on the inside and the out.

The peppermint sugar DIY exfoliating scrub

It’s also known as the candy cane scrub. Combine some raw sugar, peppermint essential oil, and vanilla extract. If you’d like to fancy things up for the holidays, add a little glitter – because why not? This one is a perfect gift, too – wrap it up in a cute mason jar with some cellophane and a colorful ribbon.

The jasmine and vanilla DIY exfoliating scrub

Botanical, seductive, and fresh! This scrub smells elegant and feminine, and the scent will linger long after you’ve finished exfoliating. Vanilla and jasmine are some of the oldest perfume scents around; they’re both considered intoxicating and are still used as notes in many fragrances today. Combine vanilla extract, coconut oil, jasmine essential oil, and white sugar. Enjoy!

Ginger coconut lemongrass DIY exfoliating scrub

Are you feeling like a refreshing body scrub that transports you straight to Thailand? This one will definitely combat the winter blues. Combine coconut oil (at room temperature or heated), coarsely chopped fresh ginger, sea salt, and lemongrass essential oil.

SOURCE: Beautyandtips

DIY Skin Brightening Kiwi Face Mask

Next time you hear people saying that it costs a huge sum to look beautiful, just tell them to check their fruit basket! Yes, the secret lies there.

With a wide variety of fruits in it, your fruit basket is all you need for glowing and radiant skin. Those oranges, bananas, apples, melons and almost every other fruit that you can name are a boon to your beauty regime. Not to forget in this list is kiwi, one incredible fruit with a host of nutrients that imparts a beautiful glow to your skin.

A leading source of vitamin C, kiwi offers the following benefits to your skin:

Rejuvenates skin through cell regeneration: Kiwi contains several nutrients, especially vitamins C and E as well as various antioxidants that are essential for boosting and rejuvenating the health of your skin. The fruit helps moisturize and hydrate your skin and stimulate the production and regeneration of skin cells, thus making it flexible and youthful.

Adds a healthy glow to your skin: The antioxidant content, especially vitamin C, works as a natural bleach to lighten and brighten your skin.

Keeps skin firm: Being loaded with vitamin C, kiwi also helps keep your skin supple and firm as it aids the production of collagen in the skin.

Fights free radicals: Kiwi contains a number of antioxidants that help neutralize the effects of free radicals in the skin, thus accelerating the process of regeneration and slowing the signs of aging.

Fights acne: Kiwi contains natural anti-inflammatory properties that help fight acne and blemishes as well as clearing up pores to prevent further breakouts.

Exfoliation: The black seeds in kiwi fruit help in exfoliating dead skin cells from the skin, thus offering flawless and smooth skin.

Homemade Kiwi Face Mask

While kiwi alone has multiple benefits to offer, a blend with banana and yogurt forms a bomb combination to work wonders on your skin.

Banana: Bananas are rich in potassium, vitamins and water content that help nourish, moisturize and hydrate the skin, making it soft and supple.

Yogurt: Yogurt is rich in lactic acid that works as an exfoliant to remove dead cells from the skin, fading away blemishes, reducing pigmentation and accelerating the growth of new skin cells.

The kiwi-banana-yogurt face mask works amazingly well for dry to normal skin and helps hydrate and soften your skin.

How to make a DIY Kiwi Face Mask

Things you’ll need:

• Kiwi – 1
• Banana – 1
• Plain yogurt – 1 tablespoon

Steps
1. Scoop out the flesh from a kiwi and put it in a bowl.
2. Mash the pulp well with a fork.
3. Add 1 peeled banana to the kiwi and smash it.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of plain yogurt to the kiwi-banana mixture.
5. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to form a smooth paste.

How to Use Your Homemade Kiwi Face Mask

• Remove all makeup and rinse your face.
• Spread the kiwi facial mask evenly on your face.
• Allow it to dry for 20 to 30 minutes.
• Gently rub the mask on your skin and then wipe it off using a soft washcloth soaked in warm water.
• Wash it off using lukewarm water and pat dry.

Use this face mask once every week for softer, glowing and flawless skin.

Additional Tips

• You can use an overripe banana to make the face mask.
• Instead of mashing the ingredients with a fork, you can also blend them in a blender.
• To add to its skin brightening benefits, you can add more fruits like strawberries or papaya in this face mask.

SOURCE: Top10homeremedies

DIY Skin Toners for Healthy and Glowing Skin

Your daily skin regime may include washing your face with a face wash and gently patting it dry with a soft towel. You might apply a moisturizer if your skin is particularly dry. Taking it a step further, you may also use a skin toner.

People have various skin types – dry, oily, sensitive. Each type has its own set of problems. Maybe you have too many pimples, maybe you are fed up of ugly open pores, maybe your skin gets all flaky and itchy no matter the weather, or maybe even the slightest hint of makeup causes rashes on your face.

Different skin types require different toners. In addition to combating skin problems, skin toners also help you maintain, healthy, glowing and younger-looking skin. But not all toners are suitable for everyone.

Here are some recipes for DIY toners for specific skin types, using natural ingredients easily found in your home.

How to Make DIY Toner for Oily Skin

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you can try this toner to reduce your skin’s oiliness and shrink large pores. The toner will also help reduce the acne problem that is so common among people with oily skin.

Green tea has anti-inflammatory properties that will reduce the acne, while apple cider vinegar will reduce the oiliness on skin and bring down the pH level.

If you want, you can add a few drops of tea tree oil and/or lavender oil for added benefits. Tea tree oil helps fight acne breakouts, blemishes, dark spots and pimples. Lavender oil has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help fight against acne and inflammation.

Things you’ll need:

• Steeped green tea – ¾ cup
• Raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar – ¼ cup
• Tee tree oil (optional) – a few drops
• Lavender oil (optional) – a few drops

Steps

1. Steep a bag of green tea in ¾ cup of boiling water and pour it into a jar.
2. Add ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar to it and mix it well.

Your homemade toner for greasy and acne-prone skin is now ready to use.

How to use your homemade toner for oily skin

• 
  
• Dip a cotton pad into the mixture and apply it gently on your face. You can also pour the mixture into a spray bottle and lightly spray it on your face.
• Do not rinse it off after applying, instead let it dry.
• Use it twice daily for effective results.

You can store this homemade toner for oily skin in the refrigerator for upto 10 days.

How to Make Toner for Dry Skin

Dry skin can cause your face to look flaky, aged and unappealing. It can also cause redness, itching and tears in your skin. Dry skin can be a terrible ordeal to live with, especially in the winters.

But this toner will help you battle your skin’s dryness and keep your skin healthy and moisturized. Rose water helps restore the pH of the skin and makes it appear fresh. Refrigerated rose water can also help shrink large pores. Glycerin helps provide ample moisture to the dry skin.

Things you’ll need:

• Rose water – 2 tablespoons
• Glycerin – 1 teaspoon

Steps

1. Pour 2 tablespoons of rose water into a spray bottle.
2. Add 1 teaspoon of glycerin and mix it well.

Your DIY toner for dry skin is now ready to be applied.

How to use your homemade toner for dry skin

• Lightly spray the toner on your face. If you prefer, you can keep the toner in a jar and use a cotton pad to dab it on your face.
• Use it every day, before applying a moisturizer.

The toner can be refrigerated for up to 10 days.

How to Make Toner for Normal Skin

If your skin is not particularly oily or dry, you likely have a normal skin type. This toner for normal skin will protect it from becoming too dry or oily, while also moisturizing it.

Cucumber has a cooling effect on the skin, even on sensitive skin. It hydrates your skin and provides a soothing sensation. It also creates a perfect balance between the oiliness and dryness, so your skin remains normal.

Aloe vera is a great addition to the toner if you don’t want your skin to become greasy while staying hydrated. It also has antibacterial properties that help ward off acne and pimple breakouts. It also speeds up skin cell regeneration, making it useful in delaying skin aging.

Rose essential oil has excellent properties for rejuvenating your skin. It also has astringent properties to treat acne-prone skin, as well as anti-inflammatory properties that help treat redness and inflammation.

Peppermint essential oil helps control oiliness, therefore preventing acne. The use of peppermint oil can also refresh and cool your skin.

Things you’ll need:

• Cucumber, medium-sized – 1
• Gel from 1 aloe vera leaf
• Rose oil or peppermint oil – 5 drops

Steps

1. Extract the juice of 1 medium-sized cucumber and transfer it to a jar.
2. Add aloe vera gel to the cucumber juice.
3. Add 5 drops of either rose oil or peppermint oil.
4. Mix it well.
5. Pour it into a spray bottle.

Your natural homemade toner for normal skin is ready to use.

How to use your DIY toner for normal skin

• You can spray it on your face, making sure it covers all the areas of the face.
• Leave it on for 5 to 10 minutes. Then, rinse it off with normal water.

You can store this mixture in the refrigerator for 5 to 7 days.

Additional Tips

• Witch hazel also works as a great skin toner for all skin types. You don’t even need to add anything to it. Make sure you use alcohol-free witch hazel.
• If you don’t have green tea, simply mix equal parts of water and apple cider vinegar to create a natural skin toner for oily skin.
• To extract the aloe vera gel from the leaf, slit the leaf using a knife and scoop the gel out with a spoon.
• If you don’t have a spray bottle, you can just use a bowl and cotton pads to dab the toners on your face. Make sure to put them in an airtight container when storing.
• Take care in storing your toner. While refrigeration helps, do not store the homemade toners for more than 10 days, as they will lose their benefits by then.

SOURCE: Top10homeremedies

How To Use Lemon Juice For Acne Scars?

Do you have acne scars that you want to get rid of? Have you been trying OTC medications but got no results? Then lemon juice is what you must use.

Lemon contains antibacterial, exfoliating, skin-lightening, and astringent properties, and is rich in vital nutrients such as Vitamin C and citric acid. All these make it super-effective for curing acne and eliminating the scars that it causes.

How To Use Lemon Juice For Acne Scars

Lemon contains antioxidants that go by the name bioflavonoids (1). These antioxidants help in treating myriad health conditions varying from simple cold and flu to more complex ailments such as scurvy. Also, as mentioned already, lemon has properties that help in lightening the skin that makes acne scars less visible. Here are a few ways to use this beneficial juice to help remove those pesky marks from your face:

1. Lemon Juice And Yogurt

Both lemon and yogurt do wonders for your skin, and together they can help you get rid of the ugly acne scars. All you need to do is:

• Mix lemon juice and yogurt in a bowl.
• After it is mixed well, take a cotton ball and dip it into the mixture.
• Squeeze out the excess solution and apply it all over your face, concentrating on areas that are affected by acne.
• Leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes to allow your skin to absorb its goodness.
• Rinse it off with cold water and gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel.
• Repeat this every day to treat acne and remove those scars as well.

Lemon juice helps in curing acne and lightens your skin while yogurt has a soothing effect on your skin, especially over the areas that are inflamed.

2. Lemon Juice, Rose Water, And Cucumber Juice

This is an acne scar removing treatment that does your skin a lot of good. You not only eliminate scars, but also gain bright, fresh skin that is always radiant. All you need to do is:

• Mix equal parts of lemon juice, rose water, and cucumber juice in a bowl.
• Apply the natural solution all over your face, concentrating on the acne-affected areas.
• Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes.
• Rinse off with cold water and pat dry.
• Repeat this every day to get rid of acne scars quickly.

Lemon juice lightens your skin, especially those areas with scars, while cucumber juice soothes it. Rose water ensures that your skin does not get too dry and makes it soft and glowing as well.

3. Lemon Juice And Egg Whites

Lemon juice and egg whites have a wonderful effect on skin that is affected by acne. They help in decreasing redness and remove the scars as well. To use this effective remedy, all you need to do is:

• Take equal amounts of lemon juice and egg whites in a bowl.
• Whisk well to make sure that the two components blend properly.
• Apply this mixture on areas with acne scars and leave it on overnight.
• Rinse off the next morning and gently pat dry.
• Repeat this treatment regularly to clear any scars caused by acne, and get bright, clear skin.

This mask is a fantastic way to get rid of acne scars and to lighten your skin as well, so that your face is unmarred by any marks.

There are many other ways to use lemon juice for acne scars. You can mix it with herbs like mint or basil as well as honey to make a natural remedy for this problem. Forget about all those commercial products with fancy advertisements that promise you a quick cure; they hardly work. Instead, choose an all-natural, inexpensive remedy like lemon juice on acne scars and gain beautiful skin without any blemishes.

SOURCE: Stylecraze

How To Get Rid Of Wrinkles Using Coconut Oil

Are you constantly worried about the signs of aging on your face? Do you think wrinkles and dark spots are ruining your beauty? If yes, you have to start including coconut oil in your skin care routine. It is natural, effective, and absolutely safe. Read on to know more about this awesome ingredient.

Wrinkles can occur anywhere on your face – around the mouth, forehead furrows, and around the eyes. Though there are various cosmetic treatments to reduce wrinkles, coconut oil is the safest way to go. It boosts the production of collagen and encourages the regeneration of cells in your skin. It effectively fades away wrinkles and makes your skin taut.

And the best thing about coconut oil is that it isn’t expensive. Would you like to learn more about coconut oil and how it can treat wrinkles? Continue reading.

How To Use Coconut Oil For Wrinkles

Use Coconut Oil In the Following Ways

1. Coconut Oil For Wrinkles

Image: Shutterstock

You Will Need

• Virgin coconut oil

What You Have To Do

• Cleanse your face and rinse it with cool water. Pat dry.
• Take a few drops of coconut oil on your fingertips
• And apply to your face and neck. Massage in circular motions for a few minutes.
• Leave the oil on overnight.

How Often You Should Do This

• Do this every night before you go to sleep.

Why This Works

Coconut oil fights free radicals, reduces wrinkles, and makes your skin clear. It also soothes your skin and moisturizes it (1, 2).

2. Apple Cider Vinegar And Coconut Oil For Wrinkles

You Will Need

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon water
• A few drops of virgin coconut oil

Cotton ball

What You Have To Do

• Dilute the ACV with water and apply it to your face using the cotton ball.
• Let it dry naturally.
• Now, massage your face with coconut oil.
• Keep the oil on overnight.
• How Often

You Should Do This

• Repeat this every night.

Why This Works

ACV works as an astringent. It balances the skin’s pH and tones the skin before the coconut oil is applied (3).

3. Castor Oil And Coconut Oil For Wrinkles

Image: Shutterstock

You Will Need

• 2-3 drops organic coconut oil
• 2-3 drops castor oil

What You Have To Do

• Mix both the oils and use this blend to massage your face gently.
• Leave it on for as long as possible, preferably overnight.

How Often You Should Do This

• Do this every day to keep your skin wrinkle-free.

Why This Works

Castor oil is a deep conditioner for the skin that contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory components as well. It keeps your skin supple and youthful without any fine lines and wrinkles (4, 5).

4. Vitamin E And Coconut Oil For Wrinkles

You Will Need

• 1 vitamin E capsule
• A few drops of organic coconut oil

What You Have To Do

• Pierce the vitamin E capsule carefully and pour the contents into a bowl.
• To this, add the coconut oil and mix well.
• Apply this oil blend all over a clean and dry face. Massage it in for a few minutes.

How Often You Should Do This

• Do this every night.

Why This Works

Vitamin E hydrates the skin and quells the unhealthy dryness that may be a cause of the wrinkles and fine lines. It also contains tocopherol, which is an antioxidant that helps to rejuvenate dull and aging skin (6, 7).

5. Coconut Oil And Honey For Wrinkles

Image: Shutterstock

You Will Need

• 1 tablespoon organic coconut oil
• 1/2 teaspoon raw honey

What You Have To Do

• Mix the oil and honey.
• Apply this mixture to the affected area and let it sit for about an hour.
• Rinse it off with water.

How Often You Should Do This

• Repeat this once every day.

Why This Works

Honey is rich in antioxidants that heal damaged skin (8). This will eventually iron out the wrinkles and give your skin a wonderful glow.

6. Coconut Oil And Lemon Juice For Wrinkles

You Will Need

• 1 tablespoon virgin coconut oil
• A few drops of lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon raw milk

What You Have To Do

• Add the lemon juice to the milk and mix until the milk curdles.
• Add the coconut oil to this and mix well.
• Apply this mixture on your face and massage for 2-3 minutes.
• Leave it on for another 15 minutes and then rinse it off.

How Often You Should Do This

• Repeat this every day.

Why This Works

Lemon juice cleanses the skin and tightens the pores. It contains vitamin C that enhances the skin’s elasticity and reduces wrinkles (9, 10). The curdled milk moisturizes the skin.

Caution

• Do not use this remedy if you are allergic to dairy and dairy products.

7. Coconut Oil And Turmeric For Wrinkles

Image: Shutterstock

You Will Need

• 1 tablespoon virgin coconut oil
• A pinch of turmeric powder

What You Have To Do

• Add the turmeric powder to the oil and mix well.
• Apply the paste on the wrinkles and leave it on for 15-20 minutes.
• Rinse it off with water.

How Often You Should Do This

• Do this once every day.

Why This Works

Turmeric contains antioxidants that protect the skin from damage due to free radicals. It enhances the collagen production in the skin and improves its elasticity. It also contains anti-inflammatory compounds (11).

Precautions

• Make sure you purchase a product that is organic and hasn’t crossed the expiry date.

You might have heard about the uses of coconut oil for cooking and cleaning, but how many of you actually knew about its beauty benefits? Coconut oil is great for your skin and hair as well. It is commonly used these days to treat wrinkles, and the methods described above are quite simple and effortless.

SOURCE: Stylecraze

8 Ways You Can Use Oatmeal To Get Glowing Skin And Gorgeous Hair

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Oatmeal isn't just one of the healthiest breakfasts out there—it's also seriously good for your skin. “Oatmeal is a humectant, meaning it helps moisturize skin, and it contains inflammation-quelling compounds,” says Ranella Hirsch, MD a Boston dermatologist. What that means for you: softer, smoother skin in a flash. Try one of these 8 ways to soak in the benefits—head-to-toe:

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Your mom was onto something with her post-poison ivy Rx. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, oatmeal soaks can help normalize skin's pH levels, relieving itchy, dry skin. "Oatmeal baths are great for persistent eczema, contact dermatitis, and other rashes," says Jessica Hayman, ND, a naturopathic doctor in Sedona, Arizona. But you don't need a rash to benefit—oatmeal soaks moisturize and soften skin, minus harsh additives and drying chemicals in many bath products. 

Try it: Grind about a half cup of uncooked rolled oats (gluten free, if you're sensitive) into a powder with a food processor, then either place ground oats directly into hot water and swirl, or wrap in cheesecloth and drop into your bath to avoid a messy cleanup post-soak. 

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Oatmeal boasts anti-inflammatory polyphenols that can quell facial irritation, according to research from the Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging At Tufts University. Plus, moisturizing lipids and essential fatty acids soften the skin, says Mary Helen Leonard, author of The Natural Beauty Solution. Trevor Cates, ND, a naturopathic physician based in Park City, Utah, suggests taking advantage of the calming, moisturizing double-whammy with an oatmeal-based face mask like this one.  

Try it: Put ⅓ cup oatmeal in a bowl and pour ½ cup hot water on top. Mix, then add 1 tablespoon of honey and 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt. Apply to entire face, avoiding eyes, and leave on for 20 minutes before removing with damp cloth. 

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Oats' rough, but not hard, texture makes them superb natural exfoliants. Getting rid of dead skin cells leaves your complexion more youthfully radiant, says Cates. 

Try it: Mix a small amount of uncooked, rolled oats with warm water in a bowl, massage onto face, and rinse. Use once daily after cleansing. 

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You'll want to save some oats for your stomach. A Journal of Nutrition study notes that the same compounds that calm inflammation topically also aid the proper absorption of antioxidants you eat (say, the berries on top of your oatmeal). But that's not all it's good for. Oatmeal's fiber helps regulate your digestive system, an essential for glowing skin, Hayman says. Find out Which Is Healthier: Steel-Cut Oats or Rolled Oats in Prevention's health food face-off.

Try it: For a delicious twist on oatmeal for breakfast, mix a handful of oats with frozen blueberries and almond milk and give it a whirl in the blender.

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The interaction between beta glucan and antioxidants, both found in colloidal oatmeal, a substance created when oats are ground, may speed skin cell repair, says Hirsch. Find it in Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion ($20, pack of 2, amazon.com) or Nature's Gate Oatmeal Lotion

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Saponins, plant-derived molecules that foam, abound in oats, making them a great mild facial cleanser, says Cates. The goo produced when oats mix with warm water, called mucilage, contains ingredients that help soothe skin—so your face won't dry out as you cleanse. 


Try it: Instead of purchasing an expensive facial cleanser, try Cate's at-home alternative: mix uncooked oats with warm water, slather away, and rinse. 

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The same properties that make colloidal oatmeal stop itchy skin from pestering can work on the scalp, too, says Hirsch. Look for colloidal oatmeal in your main scalp care product, aka shampoo. 

Try it: Aquicare Sensitive Skin Oatmeal Shampoo ($18, aquicare.com) and Dermaveen Oatmeal Shampoo ($30, amazon.com); both list colloidal oatmeal as a main ingredient. 

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Oatmeal's cleansing and balancing properties help remove oil, bacteria, and sebum from the skin, says Cates. And because of the trophorestorative, or tissue restoring, properties in oats, applying them topically will assist cell repair, Hayman says. 

Try it: Simply mix oatmeal with warm water and honey and apply to affected areas, Hayman suggests. Leave on for up to 20 minutes and rinse. 

SOURCE: Womenshealthmag

10 DIY Remedies That Will Cure Your Dry Skin

From Iceland to Jamaica – it doesn’t matter what your country or climate, almost all of us have suffered from dry skin – especially in the cold winter months. While it’s never a bad idea to invest in a humidifier (or take an extended tropical holiday), in the short term, staying on top of hydration with a few at home remedies can make a big difference. Store-bought moisturizers are great, but if you’re feeling a little parched and don’t want to make a shopping trip, keep reading for ten DIY home remedies for dry skin.

Coconut oil

Will we ever stop singing the praises of coconut oil? Not likely. This oil comes straight from the coconut (duh) and the scent is one great way to transport you to the tropics. Coconut oil is high in natural fats, which is great for improving skin elasticity, and studies have shown that it is a fix for eczema, psoriasis, and acne. Apply to your hands, body, hair, and face – anywhere that’s feeling a little dry. You can even cook with it!

Avocado and honey

Here is another one of natural home remedies for dry skin – avocado and honey combination. No, don’t eat it. Okay, fine, you can have some, but save the rest for your skin! Besides being ridiculously delicious, avocado and honey both pack some major punch when it comes to skin vitality. Avocado has omega fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants that will bring moisture and glow to the surface. Honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it not only a great moisturizer, but awesome for fighting off any existing skin conditions or bacteria. Mash your avocado, and mix in honey to your preferred consistency. Wear it as a mask, and leave on for up to 20 minutes. Make sure to prepare some delicious food with the leftovers!

Banana and almond oil

Banana and almond oil is another one of amazing home remedies for dry skin. No, really, we’re not just trying to make you hungry. As it turns out, a lot of stuff that’s super delicious is also great for hydrating and reviving your skin! Bananas are full of potassium, as well as vitamins A, D, and C. Vitamin D comes from the sun, and is super essential for your skin in the winter. Vitamin C is excellent for evening skin tone and preventing wrinkles. Mash your banana, and mix with almond oil to your preferred consistency. The almond oil will add some extra moisture, and your skin will be beaming in no time.

Aloe Vera

It’s not just for sunburns! As it turns out, in fact, Aloe Vera gel is pretty useful all year round and is also part of fabulous home remedies for dry skin. The main reason Aloe Vera is so commonly used to relieve sunburns is due to its anti-inflammatory properties and intense moisturization (as sunburns are very drying). Aloe also has a compound called Gibberellin, which has restorative properties – it acts as a growth hormone to encourage cell regeneration. As a result, Aloe is actually great for your skin; regardless of how much sun you’ve seen lately. It can be applied on its own, or mixed with other oils or moisturizers for extra impact.

Vitamin E oil

Vitamin E is in all the trendy high-end skincare lines lately, and there’s no question why. It can be applied as an oil, gel, serum, or cream – dealer’s choice. Vitamin E has antioxidants that work to block free radicals in the skin, which helps immensely to prevent wrinkles and discoloration. Vitamin E is often applied topically to scars, but will also help to reduce the appearance of stretch marks, and is super moisturizing for anywhere you wish to use it.

Jojoba oil 

Jojoba oil often tends to fly under the radar because it is toted as a ‘carrier oil’, which means that it gets mixed with other essential oils to help them work their magic. On its own, however, jojoba oil still packs a serious punch and is one of amazing home remedies for dry skin. Jojoba oil is one of the oils with the closest pH level and moisture level to our skin’s natural moisture barrier. This means that you can apply it to sensitive areas like your face, without having to worry about clogging pores or stripping the skin’s barrier. It has a lightweight feeling, and sinks in quickly. Plus, it has a very light and pleasant scent – and it’s pretty inexpensive! Hold onto it as your secret weapon.

Moisturize while skin is wet

Okay, we’re kinda cheating here – we know this isn’t really a DIY remedy. But it’s such a simple trick you can do at home to stay moisturized that will make a world of difference. After you hop out of the shower or bath, lather on your moisturizer before you towel off. Moisturizer needs moisture to lock into the skin, and if your skin is wet it will stay hydrated for longer. This trick is especially great in the winter; warm steamy showers that open your pores are the perfect way to maintain the moisture barrier.

Drink water!

Again, we know, not really a DIY remedy. But water + skin + winter = hydration! Seriously, it’s the best way to keep your skin refreshed. We find that in the cooler weather, water also tends to be far less appealing. No one wants to carry around a cold bottle or glass, and it’s often unpleasant to wake up in the morning to a cold sip of water. If you prefer, exchange some of your hydration intake with herbal tea. It’s just as hydrating, and it serves the added purpose of warming you up! If you’re feeling a little low on energy, you can always grab a tea of the caffeinated variety – moisture and energy is a great combo.

Take your vitamins 

Many of the home remedies for dry skin we’ve listed so far are packed with vitamins – so it’s no wonder that we want you to eat some as well! Vitamin A is great for skin regeneration, vitamin C helps with hyperpigmentation, and vitamin E improves wrinkles and scars. Omega fatty acids are also incredibly important for skin health – they add elasticity and encourage collagen production. You don’t need to worry about popping pills every day, either – just eat the right foods! Dark leafy greens, eggs, dairy, fish, and nuts are all packed with the nutrients that will nourish and moisturize your skin – and the rest of you too!

Milk & honey bath

This remedy is great for when your skin is feeling parched, and you also kind of just want to be luxurious for a while. Start running a hot bath, and add a few cups of milk and a few tablespoons of honey. In the meantime, grab a cup of chamomile tea and that book you’ve been putting off for three weeks. Hop in, and soak for as long as you like. Don’t forget to soak your hair too! The honey and milk will moisturize, nourish, and revitalize your winterized skin.

Featured Image via: Beauty and Style
SOURCE: Beautyandtips