We’ve long heard the claims about toxins in our personal care products that by now we all know the harmful effects they can have on our skin and hair. So I decided to embark on a quest to treat my skin the old fashioned way. As in what our ancestors would have done before the billion dollar cosmetics industry existed. I decided to research products you would find in nature, and how when combined they can treat a whole host of skin issues.

The first DIY home remedy I looked into was a personal issue, dry skin. I wanted something rich, nourishing and very moisturizing. This mask combines the moisturizing properties of avocados and honey. The oils from the avocado closely match the oils that exist in our own skin which is why they are an excellent choice for a mask for dry skin issues. The honey acts as a humectant, attracting water in the surrounding air to your face, thereby aiding in the masks moisturizing abilities.

Mash 1/2 a ripe avocado in a bowl and stir in 1/4 cup of honey. You should end up with a mixture that is thick enough to spread, but nice and rich. Once the mixture is created, apply it to your face and let it work its magic! Remove with a paper towel or washcloth after approximately 10 minutes. I loved how my skin felt after! So smooth and soft. Kinda look like the hulk in this pic. Lol.

For the next mask I wanted to do something for oily/acne prone skin. This mask combines strawberries and plain yogurt. While I don’t personally suffer from acne issues, I have a lot of friends that do and they are always on the hunt, testing and trying new products much to no avail.

This mask works great at treating acne prone skin mostly because of the natural salicylic acid that exists in the strawberries. Salicylic acid is great for acne prone skin as it works as a natural exfoliant which allows your skin to regenerate and will prevent your pores from clogging over time.  The yogurt works to soothe the skin as the strawberries can be a little harsh for some people. I know I definitely felt a little tingle, especially on my cheeks.

In a blender combine 1/4 cup strawberries with 1/4 cup plain yogurt. Blend until smooth and apply to the face for 10 minutes.

Now masks aren’t only for your face, your hair needs a little TLC every now and then! I remember my cousins in India would sit together and apply oil to their hair every once in a while. I always wondered why, but now I understand how it all works.

The coconut oil has so many benefits for the hair, it’s almost a shame not to use it!! It helps stimulate hair growth, moisturizes dry hair, adds shine and softness, helps hair to grow longer by preventing breakage and the best part..it slows down hair loss.The banana is loaded with potassium which helps to soften the hair so it’s great for treated/dyed hair. It also helps to prevent split ends and adds shine.

Just throw 1 banana and 1 tbsp coconut oil into a blender. Blend away and apply to hair. If your hair is coarse use it all the way from root to tip, if your hair is fine/medium (like mine) only apply it to the bottom half of your hair. Let it soak for 30 minutes and then wash it out. Just make sure you give your hair a thorough scrub in the shower though or you’ll still have banana in your hair (like me the first time I tried this lol).

Do you have any favorite DIY beauty recipes you swear by?