We are always looking for ways to improve the look of our hair. Polynesians and Indians use coconut milk to moisturize the scalp and help it grow longer and stronger. Coconut milk gets rid of dandruff and stimulates hair growth. It also heals damaged locks, lessens breakage and leaves hair shiny. Freshly grated coconut meat, ground into a powder, can be applied to the hair and scalp and result in softer, silkier tresses.
Most of us drink milk, but Egyptian women anciently took milk baths. Cleopatra often bathed in asses’ milk to keep youthful and beautiful. Milk contains alpha hydroxyl acid which has been used for centuries to rejuvenate skin. Cosmetologists have rediscovered the benefits of this ingredient, and alpha hydroxy is currently a key ingredient in many creams and soaps. Goat’s milk contains Vitamin A, which can repair damaged skin.
Tumeric is used in many Indian curries, but has also become a popular in beauty products. It can brighten the complexion by exfoliating dead skin cells. Tumeric has anti-inflammatory benefits and is also a potent antioxidant. The yellow color of turmeric comes from curcumin, which is believed to have anti-cancer potential. Tumeric is used on Indian brides to give them a radiant golden glow for their wedding day. It is also believed to fight off acne, dark spots on the skin and improves skin elasticity
Honey has been touted as a beauty product for centuries. In ancient Egypt it was used on mummies to preserve them. Honey is known to maintain moisture and has antiseptic qualities. It can improve the look of stretch marks or scars. Since it is natural, it can be used instead of potentially harmful peels. Honey combined with milk or olive oil is used for revitalizing the hair and dry skin. Honey was used by medieval lords on wounds to promote healing. What was once only considered a delicacy fit for kings and queens is now available for all of us.
Women and men from around the world have found the beauty benefits of salt. Egyptians found salt scrubs in medical papyri. Not only does it enhance the flavor of food, but it can be used in bath salts to improve the condition of the skin. In India is it is used together with essential oils to energize the skin by exfoliating dead cells and make it supple. It can also treat rashes, callused feet, improve or eliminate psoriasis and eczema and other unsightly skin conditions. Bath salts can be used to lessen brown spots. By relieving tired muscles, reduce joint inflammation, and help circulation, salts can help us return to our best self. Salts also contain calcium which can strengthen the nails.
Clay is used in France to moisturize the skin. As a mask, it can detoxify and improve circulation. Coming in a powdered form, it is mixed with water and smoothed over the skin. French clay is taken from deep in the earth. It contains many minerals including magnesium, calcium, iron, aluminum, phosphorus, potassium and sodium. It can absorb fat and purify and balance the skin. Clay adds needed minerals to the skin for a healthy glow. It also strengthens and heals the skin including wounds or scars. Clay is antimicrobial and fights infection and inflammation. It is the earth’s gift to us to combat pollutions of our day.
Adding just one, or all of these natural beauty regimes from around the world, will help us achieve our goal to improve our appearance and let our beauty shine through!
Monica Hill is a professional blogger that enjoys providing information on airbrushing and how to use an airbrush. She writes for Luminess Air, a leading provider of airbrushing kits and make-up and where you can learn how to airbrush.
