By Katie G.
Ah, summer. We're down to the last two weeks where we get to fully enjoy the
great outdoors. But between sun worshiping, salt water, chlorine – and let's face it, drinking– your skin suffers. Do you find yourself hot, flaky, or peeling after what seems like an amazing beach day? Yeah, me too.
Luckily for us, there are some easy fixes for
your skin that you can find right in your kitchen.
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Before we get cooking, let's back up a second.
I am a longtime sufferer of skin allergies and chronic skin sensitivity. An outbreak can range from a patch of dry skin to all-over hives. And, sun triggers it. Big time.
This not-so-pretty reaction, has really affected my daily life and has made me a whole lot more conscious about what I put in my body and on my skin. Over the years (and mostly through trial and error), I've discovered some pretty amazing natural alternatives to hydrate and soothe the skin, oftentimes with basic, inexpensive ingredients. I mean, who needs to spend $200 on a cream if you can just open your refrigerator door?
So this summer, if you find your skin angry, red, and peeling, here's an amazing DIY mask that's easy to make and oh-so-fun to apply.
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| See? It's fun! |
Some general tips for making DIY masks: always mix ingredients together well, apply evenly, avoid the eye area (especially key since this mask can be drippy), and leave on for about 15 minutes. That's it! Make sure you rinse thoroughly and finish with a splash of cold water to close the pores.
Oatmeal Turmeric Honey Mask
1/2 cup oatmeal
2 tablespoons honey (you can gently warm it, if desired)
1/4 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (can also be almond oil)
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
The best thing? These ingredients are all natural anti-inflammatories and have an abundance of benefits for your skin:
Oatmeal is so much more than a breakfast staple. It is one of the best things you can put on your skin because it soothes and locks in moisture. It's amazing for people who suffer from eczema.
Yogurt:
Yogurt contains lactic acid that helps exfoliate the skin to keep it glowing. It's B-Vitamins and calcium helps in cell regeneration too.
Often regarded as a "healthy" sweetener alternative, honey can actually help moisturize, fight bacteria and combat aging. Just make sure you use "raw" honey.
Turmeric:
Turmeric is a blood purifier and an unbelievable anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent. It's delicious scent also adds some major aromatherapy.
Olive OilI mean, what can't I say about olive oil? Eat it, love it, and slather it on your skin. It's a Mediterranean beauty staple. Always use extra virgin!
And there you have it. Simple, inexpensive, and effective. Go forth and be radiant!
Disclaimer: I would recommend absolutely testing this mask on a patch of skin first to make sure that you are not allergic/sensitive to any of the ingredients
