Archive for the ‘Home Remedies’ Category

The Apple Cider Vinegar Toner

March 13th, 2008 beautyorbust

Can you handle it? The smell that is. If you’re an “anything goes if it works” kind of girl, you’ll want to try the ACV toner. Although it’ll leave you smelling like a salad, apple cider vinegar can work wonders for your skin. ACV has long been held as a health and beauty miracle worker. It is a natural tonic that promotes blood circulation and kills bacteria. When used as a toner, apple cider vinegar kills the bacteria on your face and balances your skin’s pH level. If used regularly, it can reduce scaly or peeling skin conditions. To use, mix 1 part ACV with 3 parts water (or unsweetened green tea) and apply to your face with a cotton pad. If you skin is very sensitive, rinse off the toner after 10 minutes. Otherwise, no need to rinse. ACV works great at diminishing blackheads and drying out persistent blemishes.

Where to find it: DO NOT reach for the clear ACV found at most grocery stores. For the toner to work (and not BRUTALIZE your skin), you’ll need the organic, unfiltered ACV found at health food stores and GNC. One trusted brand is Bragg’s.

P.S. ACV has great detoxing abilities, and can be taken internally to regulate weight and clean out the digestive system.

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Coconut Oil

February 26th, 2008 beautyorbust

Is there anything more delicious than the smell of a tropical getaway? Well if you can’t get to the islands, coconut oil will bring a little island flavor to you. Although its health benefits are debatable, its moisturizing benefits are not. Unlike lotions, which provide only temporary relief for dry skin, coconut oil penetrates deep into the skin, strengthening tissues and leaving you with smooth, soft skin for longer. Keep a jar around in a cool area and slather it on anytime you need a moisturizing treat.

Where to find it: If you’d like to avoid additives, you should pick up a jar of 100% pure coconut oil from Whole Foods.

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Honey Mask

February 17th, 2008 beautyorbust

Sweet and sticky doesn’t describe most skin care products, but perhaps it should. Honey has been used for centuries to cure common ailments, but did you know its also a fantastic moisturizer? Honey has a hygroscopic nature, which means it attracts and maintains moisture from the air. When used as a mask, it moisturizes and plumps up the skin, leaving you looking fresh and youthful. And its antibacterial, so it heals and treats the skin as it moisturizes. The honey mask is particularly useful in the winter, when many of us suffer from dry, flaky skin.

Where to find it: Anywhere, although some prefer to use organic honey, which can be found at almost any health store.

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Jojoba Oil

February 17th, 2008 beautyorbust

Many people are terrified of applying oil to their skin, and rightfully so. But you should know, jojoba oil is not like other oils. In fact, it is very similar to human sebum (the oil that acts to protect and waterproof hair and skin – according to wikipedia). It’s a great moisturizer for the skin and a gentle, safe makeup remover. Even those with oily skin can use it. When your skin becomes dry, it produces extra sebum to moisturize and protect it, thus causing breakouts. When you use jojoba oil on your skin, it tricks your skin into producing less sebum, leaving you with balanced, moisturized skin. Jojoba oil can be applied in conjunction with moisturizer, or alone for a light, dewy effect.

Where to find it: Although it can be found at many health stores and online, I prefer to buy the Desert Essence brand at Trader Joe’s, where a 4 ounce bottle costs about $7 (since you only need a few drops with each use, it lasts forever!)

UPDATE 2/2/10: I recently applied jojoba oil to the ends of my damp hair, and it really helped improve its appearance.  My hair’s fried from bleaching, so anything that makes it look healthier is a big plus! Is there anything this baby can’t do?

Posted in Home Remedies, Reviews Tags: , , , , , 9 Comments »

The Aspirin Mask

February 17th, 2008 beautyorbust

At first glance, the title may send you running for the hills, but don’t judge this book by its cover. People all over are talking about the cheaper-than-dirt aspirin mask. Aspirin is actually a derivative of salicylic acid. Yep, the same salicylic acid found in many of your acne treatments. When dissolved in a small amount of water and gently rubbed onto the skin, aspirin acts as a gentle exfoliator, preventing the pores from becoming clogged. After just one use, you’ll notice smoother, healthier looking skin.

Recommendations: Although the Aspirin Mask works with water alone, many find that other add-ins improve its effect. To use, dissolve 4-5 aspirin in a small amount of water, and combine the resulting powder with honey, jojoba oil, or your favorite moisturizer. Leave on for 15-30 minutes to leave your skin baby soft.

Where to find it: Any drug store! Make sure you buy uncoated or lightly coated aspirin only, as it dissolves much easier.

Posted in Home Remedies Tags: , , , , , 8 Comments »
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