Skin Food: 10 Natural remedies for dry and flaky skin
updated the 14 July 2015 à 18:31No lotion? No problem. There are some things in your kitchen that can serve the same purpose – Find out which ingredients can make an all-natural moisturiser here.
Are you dealing with dry and flaky skin, but you ‘re tired of the conventional, chemical-loaded commercial products? And you can’t stand the SGD50 price tag? Don’t worry, step into your kitchen and you’ll find an array of more affordable alternatives.
We rounded up 10 common ingredients you can find in the kitchen, or maybe after a short trip to the grocery store, that can help soothe your dry skin without breaking the bank. Just make sure you don’t get tempted to cook these ingredients and eat them before they do their skin-nourishing wonders!
1. Coconut oil
By now you must be familiar with the wonders of coconut oil. It’s delicious, healthy, and works magic on your hair and skin. The oil is rich with fatty acids that moisturises and soothes dry skin. Warm some up and lather on your skin like lotion after showering.
2. (Extra virgin) Olive oil
Like coconut oil, Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) contains enough fatty acids to tame flaky skin. Apply a dab around your cuticles and if you’re up for it, you can use EVOO to remove makeup as well.
3. Almond oil
Almond oil contains antioxidants and Vitamin E that are good for the skin. Warm some up and lather on your skin after showering.
4. Honey
We have the small and mighty bees to thank for honey and all its goodness. Simply apply on inflamed or dry skin and leave for about 30 minutes before washing it all off. Don’t wait too long otherwise it might get too sticky. You can also mix some honey with one of the three oils above and beeswax for your own lip balm.
5. Avocado
Guacamole, avocado milkshake and now avocado skin care. The fruit is loaded with benefits! Its antioxidants, vitamins and fatty acids are good for the skin. Mash half an avocado into a puree, and mix with a few drops of olive oil and a tablespoon of honey. Apply like a mask on your face and leave on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing.
6. Milk Cream
Milk cream contains lactic acid which helps exfoliate skin, as well as skin-nourishing properties. Simply blend with honey and apply on your face to moisturise dry skin.
7. Cucumber
Not only does cucumber help with under-eye dark circles, it also helps to radiate and tighten other parts of our faces. Puree cucumber and apply on inflamed or dry areas. Wash off after 15 minutes. It will also help reduce blackheads and pimples too!
8. Plain greek yogurt
If your skin is dry and itchy, try massaging some plain greek yogurt on the area and leave in for 10 minutes. Yogurt also has mild exfoliating properties to get rid of dead skin cells, and it also has lactic acid to get rid of germs. That means it hydrates, cleans and peels at the same time!
9. Egg yolk paste
Bought too many eggs? Use some for your skin! Separate an egg yolk from the white and apply as a face mask, or on dry skin areas. Once it’s dried, rinse well. Alternatively, you can mix it with a pinch of milk powder and honey. They also help with blemishes and pores.
10. Aloe vera
While Aloe vera might not be readily available in most kitchens, the cactus plant is our skin’s best friend. It helps soothe sunburns, infections, heal cuts and makes a great moisturiser, even for oily skin. It also contains Auxin and Gibberellins, which help with acne breakouts. Aloe vera is basically perfect for facial use.
Remember to cleanse before you apply any of these 10 natural items. That means wiping off makeup residue and avoiding using any other skincare products prior to these all-natural skin remedies. You’ll say goodbye to dry skin in no time!
Natasha Gan
