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An increasing number of studies are opening our eyes to the harmful effects of chemicals and synthetic materials in beauty products. Why use dubious products when beauty—and good health—can be just as attainable sans potentially sketchy ingredients?
Why not take a cue from our ancestors who used natural ingredients to make hair and face masks that have proven beneficial for generations now? It’s all so easy and better for you! Here are our suggestions:
One natural remedy that is extremely beneficial for the skin is chandan, a type of sandalwood that has long been used in Indian beauty regimens. Chandan can be purchased in powder or stick form and has the ability to reduce pimples, dark circles, dark spots, and scars. Chandan also has anti-tanning and anti-aging properties that help reduce the appearance of sun damage or sagging skin. If your purchase Chandan as a paste it can be easily made into a face mask to help draw out dirt and leave skin feeling incredibly soft.
Another healthy beauty trick found in Indian beauty routines is the use of coconut oil. Coconut oil helps encourage healthy hair growth and keeps hair follicles moisturized and frizz free. To use coconut oil on your own hair mix together 3 tablespoons of melted coconut oil with one egg and apply to your hair like a hair mask. Allow the mask to sit in your hair for up to 40 minutes and then rinse it out in the shower. For optimal results, use this homemade coconut hair mask 1-2 times per week.
[Read Related: “6 Benefits of Using Coconut Oil Daily“]
Turmeric is another super-food that has gained popularity for its many health benefits, but this food is as good for you externally as it is internal. Turmeric’s most potent property, curcumin, has the ability to brighten your skin and reduce acne. To use turmeric at home, try combining a bit of turmeric with lemon and honey and applying as a face mask. The mask will even out your skin tone and leave it looking radiant.
[Read Related: “Haldi-Doodh Turns Into Hipster Trend with Turmeric Lattes“]
One ingredient you may not be as familiar with is neem, an Indian lilac that can be used daily to prevent skin problems. A simple way to use neem in your daily beauty routine is by making your own neem face moisturizer. Just boil the neem leaves and strain the liquid. Allow the liquid to cool and then evenly apply some to your skin each night before bed and in the morning wash the liquid off. If you have particularly oily skin, try adding a few drops of rose water to the liquid before applying it. The mix will soften your skin and drastically reduce any acne.
Finally, our list of ingredients wouldn’t be complete without besan. Besan is gram flour, which has a wide variety of skin healing elements—as well as a glowing effect. Besan can be mixed with a variety of ingredients depending on what effect you are looking for. For dry skin try making a homemade mask made of besan, turmeric, honey, and milk. Apply the mask for 15 minutes, twice a week for a noticeably softer skin.
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