Gifts from Mother Nature

Avocados, a great source of mono-unsaturated fats, vitamin B and potassium, can moisturize the skin and act as an exfoliating mask for dry skin.

by Joanne Henning Tedesco — 

Whole fruits and vegetables, especially those with anti-aging vitamin C, can fight free radicals, prevent wrinkles and give you firmer, younger-looking skin.

Yogurt contains lactic acid, a compound found in some chemical peels that may reduce fine wrinkles and help clear blemishes and discoloration. Brown sugar grains help exfoliate skin for a healthier glow. Avocados, a great source of mono-unsaturated fats, vitamin B and potassium, can moisturize the skin and act as an exfoliating mask for dry skin. Green tea has tannins and anti-inflammatory compounds to reduce skin puffiness and provide antioxidants to fight against premature aging.

Try the following natural treatments and see the changes in your skin.

Yogurt purifying mask

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 to 3 drops almond or olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions:

Mix Greek yogurt, almond or olive oil and honey; apply to face, leave on for 20 to 30 minutes; then rinse and pat dry.

Brown sugar scrub 

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Pinch of nutmeg

Instructions:

Pulse dark brown sugar in a coffee grinder to make it finer and less abrasive on the face (do not grind if using on your body). Add olive oil for extra moisture and, if you want, a pinch of nutmeg for fragrance; stir until it forms a paste. Wet your face, apply scrub in a circular motion for 1 to 2 minutes; wash off with warm water. Use this treatment twice a week.

Avocado mask 

Ingredients:

• 1 avocado
• 2 egg whites
• 2 tablespoons oatmeal
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions:

Mix together all ingredients and apply liberally to face. Leave on for 15 to 20 minutes; rinse with warm water. Use twice a week for softer, healthier skin.

Green tea eye miracle 

Ingredients:

• 2 green tea bags

Instructions:

Chill damp tea bags and put on eyes for 10 to 15 minutes.

Joanne Henning Tedesco is editor of AzNetNews.

Reprinted from AzNetNews, Volume 33, Number 1, February/March 2014.