Even though I enjoy “ugly sweater parties,” own the whole vinyl collection of “A Motown Christmas,” and may have a minor addiction with hot chocolate (don’t judge), I do not enjoy old man winter appearing and doing tremendous devastation on my skin. You get me?
The good news is that the secret to radiant skin can be waiting for you right around the corner—it might even be hiding in your kitchen cupboard. (Unless you’re a college student, we both know Ramen is not quite what I meant.) I adore the simplicity of most natural skincare routines as a lover of all things organic, especially those that are inexpensive and easy to make at home. Being familiar with any ingredients you put on your face feels right. (Did I mention that by the end of this, you’ll have glowing skin, lips and a body?)
Table of Contents
1. (Exfoliating/moisturizing face mask) You Cocoa Crazy
You Cocoa Crazy moisturizing exfoliating face mask. This mouth-watering mask is a great detoxifier. Ready to clear your head, remove your skin from free-radical damage, and get your hydration levels in order? Blend the ingredients, then lightly massage the face with them. 15 to 20 minutes, leave it on. Thoroughly rinse, then pat dry with a soft towel. Your skin will feel incredible.
1 cup of cocoa powder
1/2 cup o’ yogurt
4 tbsp of honey
Benefits:
The incredible antioxidant properties of cocoa powder help to shield your skin from environmental aggressors like smoke and other types of pollution. Yogurt is one of the ultimate superfoods! Famed for its amazing enzymes that assist in accelerating cellular repair, this protein-rich diet offers excellent anti-aging properties. Yogurt’s lactic acid also serves as a natural exfoliator. Quite the skin reboot!
2. Brown Sugar Goddess: (lip & body)
Sounds delicious, right? A few months ago, I used this scrub for the first time, and I was so in love with it that I made everyone around me swoon. This scrub leaves your skin feeling supple and radiant, and it is by far my favorite to use on my body and lips. In my opinion, a small spoon does the trick for mixing the ingredients and applying it after your shower seems to maximize the benefits of the coconut oil. Scoop out a small quantity into the palm of your hand, then gently scrub away while rubbing your hands together! Mixing elements will give your skin a beautiful appearance without making it feel greasy, and the aroma is wonderful!
- Half cup o’ honey
- One cup of brown sugar
- Half cup o’ coconut oil
Benefits:
While honey is mild on your skin and a natural “humectant,” attracting moisture from the environment to your skin, brown sugar works well as a natural exfoliator. (Someone was paying attention in science class!) The fatty acids in the coconut oil provide moisture and have anti-aging properties, all while giving your skin the ultimate glisten.
3. Peppermint Pouty (lip balm)
Lip balm is a must this time of year, and peppermint tops my list! The cooling component in this soothing oil is excellent for lifting your mood as it helps ward off fatigue. Are you feeling a little midday warped? You’ll feel more alert if you dab some on your lips, and it also has antibacterial qualities for your phone. Regarding combinations and serving sizes, feel free to play around for a bit with consistency to find what works best for your liking. Start with tablespoon portions of each; add more oil if the mixture is too thick and more jojoba base if it is too oily. Repurpose an old lip balm container (an Altoids container also works well!). Put this treat in the freezer for a few hours, then carry it everywhere!
Jojoba esters (sub beeswax base if preferred)
• Peppermint oil
• Cocoa butter
Benefits:
Cocoa butter is a gentle and effective moisturizer known for its calming, aromatic scent. The Jojoba esters are a great binding agent and a cruelty-free alternative to wax bases.
4. Plumpin Pumpkin (brightening/ moisturizing mask)
Goodbye dull skin, hello moisture! After combining ingredients in a mixing bowl, carefully massage the mask onto the skin and leave for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water, then gently pat yourself dry.Refrigerate the mask for a cool and refreshing experience.
2 cups of canned pumpkin
4 tbsp of plain yogurt
4tbsp of honey
1/2 cup of raw oats
Benefits:
Pumpkin has natural brightening abilities, which is great for days when your skin might look dull. Vitamins A & C are antioxidants that help prevent premature aging, and the moisturizing and exfoliant properties of the yogurt and honey. The mild cleansing properties of the raw oats are wonderful for sensitive skin and help to clear up acne.
Ready to feed your face yet? Ha! Delicious goodness, both guilt, and calorie-free! Make it for yourself, but keep in mind that these also make wonderful stocking stuffers and gifts as Christmas approaches. Get artsy and channel your inner Martha Stewart!
Also read: Describe a facelift
