Next time you run out of your favorite beauty product, see if you can find a replacement in your kitchen cupboards. It’s true—some of the most effective and revered beauty remedies are hiding out in the same place you make dinner. These remedies are long-standing because they’re healthy, they’re natural, and (most importantly!) they truly work. Want to give your beauty routine a kitchen makeover? Check out your six essentials:
OLIVE OIL
Your favorite (and most healthy) cooking companion happens to be an all-star on the beauty front thanks to a high concentration of antioxidants, vitamins, nourishing monounsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids.
As a makeup remover: Many makeup removers are full of pore-clogging oils or—even worse—drying alcohol. Skip the chemicals and use a few dabs of olive oil on a cotton ball to gently remove stubborn eye makeup. Its expert emollient skills break down mascara and eyeliner while nourishing your delicate eye area after each swipe.
As a hair treatment: If your hair is feeling the drying effects of winter’s cold air, apply some olive oil to dry hair and wrap in a warm towel. Relax for 15 minutes, then rinse and shampoo for stronger, softer hair.
COCONUT OIL
It’s natural, it’s antibacterial, and it smells like the beach—all reasons enough to deem coconut oil the year’s beauty superfood.
As shaving cream: Dreaming of a shave that’s good for your skin? Many of the most well-known shaving creams contain alcohol, which can dry out your skin and cause that signature post-shave burning. Go the natural route and use coconut oil. The naturally antibacterial emollient will leave your legs hydrated and smooth without a greasy aftermath.
HONEY
This sweetener really is the bee’s knees when it comes to beauty. Numerous studies have found honey to hold anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, making this the perfect base for any detoxing or revitalizing DIY face mask.
As a sunburn remedy: Apply the sticky stuff to overheated skin as soon as you realize you overdid it on the sun exposure. You’ll feel a reduction in pain, reduced redness, and notice quicker healing time.
PLAIN YOGURT
Your favorite smoothie starter is just as good for you skin as it is for your gut.
As a calming mask: Mix two parts full-fat plain or Greek yogurt with one part honey, smear on your face and neck, and sit back for 10-15 minutes. While you sit, the lactic acid is sloughing off dead skin cells while the probiotics reduce redness and inflammation. After you rinse with warm water, you’ll reveal brighter, calmer, and more moisturized skin.
SUGAR
Scrubs are a great way to get rid of dead skin cells that can clog pores and leave your complexion looking dull. However, there are two problems with many commercial exfoliators: they are full of chemicals, and they use beads or nut husks that are far too rough for sensitive skin or delicate areas. Brown sugar is the perfect consistency for a gentle, yet effective scrub.
As a full body scrub: Combine two parts milk to one part brown sugar (it should be a bit soupy!) and add a few drops of honey. Toward the end of your shower, turn the water off and—starting at your feet—gently scrub away the day! Rinse with warm water until you reveal seriously smooth skin.
BAKING SODA
It’s one of the best home remedies around—and now you can add it to your beauty arsenal.
As a whitening agent: There’s a reason your grandmother used it on all her pots and pans—it’s great at removing stains! The same goes for your nails and your teeth. Try dipping a small wet brush into some baking soda and scrubbing yellowed nails. Do the same with a damp toothbrush and brush, rinse, and follow with toothpaste for a noticeably whiter smile.
As an acne spot treatment: This is perfect for anyone who finds acne medication too harsh, or if you’re in a pinch. Make a quick paste out of baking soda and water and apply to the offending spot overnight.
