Natural Beauty Remedies (Maha Chaudhry)

Step 1 : diet
FAVORITE MIRACLE FOODS Carrots, salmon, blueberries, beats, avocado, spinach, yogurt, and olive oil.

What we do to the exterior of our skin is one thing, but how we treat it internally is a whole other subject. You can improve the condition of your skin drastically just by changing your diet. Replacing the bag of chips with some mixed berries, and you are already on your way to better-looking skin. The food we consume is a homemade remedy in itself. Always make sure to look for natural ingredients. The more ingredients you can recognize, the healthier it probably is. Stay clear of anything with massive amounts of sugar, including high-fructose corn syrup. Eating an overabundance of sugar is like asking acne to stay awhile (and nobody wants to do that). Some ingredients that are great for the skin are foods that contain: Vitamin A, E, and D. And fish oil is a great supplement to take on the side.

While you’re eating those healthy and natural foods, make sure to cut out the sodas and replace with water (a 12oz can of Mountain Dew contains 46 g of sugar). Water is the simplest way to improve the tone and look of your skin. It clarifies your inside, as well as it does your outside. I don’t care what anyone says, what you eat does effect how you look. There is a reason they say you are what you eat! And if certain foods can deteriorate or improve our inside, there is no reason why they cannot do the same for our outside (skin, nails and hair).

Step 2: homemade remedies
FAVORITE FACIAL INGREDIENTS Egg yolk, yogurt, oatmeal, honey, coconut water, avocado, various oils, cucumber, rose water, and almonds.

Some of the same foods we eat can make for the best at-home facials. However, it is important to keep in mind that too much of anything is not a good thing, and this applies to facial treatments as well. Keep it in moderation and keep in mind that the foods you are allergic to may also cause a reaction, even if used topically. And because every skin type is different, some may need to use a product more often to see results than others who have more sensitive skin. For anything you use on the surface of your skin, allow at least two weeks for the results to kick in.

(These ingredients can be mixed and used in almost any way you prefer. Normally, you do not need more than two to three ingredients per facial).

For dry skin: If you have dry skin, use avocado for the base in your facial. It is known to lock in moisture and soothe skin texture.

One avocado + two spoons of honey + one spoon of yogurt: Mash (or blend in blender) one avocado with a fork and mix in two spoons of honey and one spoon of yogurt. Apply it to skin with brush or bare fingers for best result. Let it set for at least 15 minutes before washing. Always apply a facial to clean skin (make sure to cleanse before applying the mask).

For oily skin: If you have oily skin, use oatmeal as a base for your facial. It is great for exfoliation and evening skin moisture.

Handful of plain oatmeal + three tablespoons of yogurt + one teaspoon of honey: Mush a handful of oatmeal and a couple drops of water in your hand, then mix it in a bowl with three tablespoons of yogurt and a teaspoon of honey. Make sure the oatmeal isn’t completely blended (you want a bit of the rough texture for maximum exfoliation). Rub gently onto skin and let set for 15-20 minutes.

For combination skin: If you have a mix between oily and dry skin, use any of the essential facial ingredients as your base. Coconut water is great as a base mixed with blended cucumber and yogurt. Yogurt is ideal for moisture, while cucumber eliminates puffiness.

Egg yolk can be used as a mask alone. It naturally dries tightly onto your skin. You can literally feel your face tighten with this remedy. If you don’t like the feeling of plain yolk on your face, you can always add some rose water for that natural pink glow. Adding a few blended almonds to your mix can be used as the exfoliation to your mask if you do not have oatmeal.

Step 2: relaxation

The first two steps above work hand in hand with this last step. Relaxing means giving your body the required amount of time to rest and unwind. This includes exercise, sleep, and daily breathing strategies, or yoga.

Exercise (30 mins-1 hour): Working out on a routine basis allows your pores to breathe. Yes, sweating is a natural facial. Sweating gets rid of all the excess oils in your body and purifies it. It also helps shrink pores. Good to know, huh?

Sleep (8 hours preferred): We live in a busy world. And our mental checklist does not help us either (since it can at times keep us up at night). However, sleep does not just aid in good skin, it also aids in living longer. Those who get more sleep are considered healthier and wiser, and some studies suggest, even live longer. Getting the required eight hours of sleep a night will definitely reduce under eye circles, bags, and puffiness. It will also keep your skin looking youthful, giving you a fresh and well-rested appearance.

Breathing (15-30 minutes): Sometimes the best way to relax is just taking in a deep breath. Inhale, exhale — yes, it is that simple. That is why some are a huge fan of yoga. Yoga not only makes you sweat, which as we mentioned above is great for your skin, it also calms the body and puts it in a trance of peace. Stress is an aging factor, so fight back with some simple breathing strategies that can be learned through various mind, body, and soul websites, and through a yoga class.

There you go, now you have the complete list of ways to look your best from the convenience of your very own home. Whether it is what you eat, wear, or do, be rest assured that there is always a natural alternative to looking and feeling better. And if you add all three steps into the equation, there is no reason you won’t be on your way to a better, healthier you.