Women have been known to try almost anything in the name of beauty. The list of what some of them will apply on their faces is as astonishing as it is endless.
Some incredible ingredients that are out there include a foreskin-based cream that Oprah is reported to have tried, Sheep Placenta, Bee Venom, Snail Slime, Caviar and even Hemorroid cream to reduce under-eye puffiness.
1) Spirulina: These algae that grow on Lake Victoria are a nutritional powerhouse. Great for alkaline effect and packed with vitamins, iron, amino acids and omegas, this compound is great taken internally. Some advocates swear by putting it on their faces. For sure its powerful antioxidant profile makes it a likely contender for a healthy skin treatment.
2)Coffee : Coffee grounds, not powder. A tingling, stimulating exfoliating scrub for the face. More popular as an anti-cellulite scrub. Mix with raw honey for an antiseptic deep-cleansing effect. At the very least, a coffee mask will surely wake up your skin cells. Tired, dull, sluggish skin cannot help but glow after being caressed with all that caffeine.
3) Seaweed: It can be found on the shores of the Kenyan coast. Those who use it create a tea out of it, or they use the dried powder to make a mask. It has a gel-like consistency so it is not difficult to apply. Seaweed does have a strong fishy smell. If you are brave enough, it is touted as being highly beneficial as a smoothening treatment. The Omega 3 content is said to assist with firming and lifting the skin, while reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
4) Pumpkin: Not just a baby food or a soup ingredient, pumpkin is high in beta-carotene, which is what gives it its bright orange colour. This means it has anti-ageing benefits, especially when taken internally. To make your pumpkin face mask, mix some olive oil and whipped egg white with well-blended or mashed steamed pumpkin. Apply onto your clean face and leave on for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse off and use a gentle toner like aloe vera or well-diluted apple cider vinegar. Apply your normal lotion or night cream.
5) Activated charcoal: Charcoal powder is different from ash. However, it does have one thing in common. It has a strong vacuum effect. The compounds in charcoal draw out dirt, heavy metals, bacteria and accumulated dead skin cells from deep within your skin’s layers. It looks strange when you mix the powder with water and apply, but your skin will never have felt so clean.
6) Red wine: This is said to be a great pore minimiser. I would much rather drink my wine so I have never tried using this on my face. Red wine contains antioxidants which when applied on the face help to prevent wrinkles. If you decide to try it, do write in and share your results.
evewoman@standardmedia.co.ke