health guides

A number of natural skincare ingredients can be found in a room besides the bathroom—the kitchen. The foods and other products below double as skincare ingredients.

Cocoa butter is an oily substance extracted from the bean of the cocoa tree. When applied topically it creates a barrier on the skin, sealing in moisture by preventing water from evapourating.

Coconut oil and coconut milk are great for moisturising the skin, and their antioxidant properties help fight the effects of free radicals. In addition, coconut has natural antifungal compounds.

Mud and clay masks are used to help balance the skin as well as nourish and detoxify. Often they are full of naturally occurring minerals.

Salt scrubs are helpful in loosening and removing lifeless skin cells, leaving a smoother texture and appearance. Generally used on the body, rather than the face, salt scrubs should be used gently.

Honey is known for its powerful antimicrobial properties, as well as its ability to draw moisture into the skin.

Porridge is a rich emollient due to its high gluten and mucilage content. Its texture may also help remove dry, dead skin cells.

Fruits such as mango, papaya, avocado are known to be healthy in the diet. Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, these foods are thought to also offer topical benefits when added to skincare products.