As we begin to transition into spring and release things that are weighing us down while making space for new, it’s a great time to begin incorporating healthier habits and routines. One of these may be a healthy beauty routine. As I reflect on my teen years and my 20’s and 30’s, I think about all of the creams, ointments, serums and expensive masks that I thought would do the trick.
For starters, I had no idea how much nutrition, lifestyle, rest and hydration played a part in skin, complexion and more. Not to mention the large amounts of toxins and chemicals I probably exposed my skin and body to.
When it comes to your skin, beauty and health, natural products are one of the best healers available to you. Be mindful of the term natural though. Especially when purchasing products (food, cleaning products, personal care and cosmetics, etc). When I say natural, I mean from the true source.
Natural products can boost your immunity, increase your energy levels and even protect against the visible signs of aging. In fact, most natural products are far more effective at giving you more beautiful, younger looking skin than any over the counter treatment. Especially when paired with rest, hydration, personal care and a clean nutrition plan that supports your own beautiful body.
Below I’ll be sharing six of my favorite natural anti-aging solutions.
Avocado
Avocado is a powerful natural healer for your skin when applied topically. The healthy fats in avocado nourish and moisturize your skin while the vitamin E repairs any skin damage and reduces the visible signs of aging.
To start enjoying the anti-aging benefits of avocado, simply mash up a small, ripe avocado and apply it to your face. Leave it on your face for at least 15 minutes before removing, so that it fully nourishes your skin and gives you the maximum anti-aging benefit.
Banana
Bananas are packed full of vitamin C which helps to keep your skin elastic and free from wrinkles. They’re also rich in manganese – a mineral that’s been proven to protect against skin damage and rashes.
You can use bananas topically to give your skin a more youthful appearance in the exact same way as avocados. Just take a small, ripe banana, mash it up with a fork and spread it on your face. Keep the mashed banana on your face for a minimum of 15 minutes, so that all the nutrients and moisture can absorb into your skin.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is one of the most effective natural moisturizers you can find. It’s also filled with antioxidants which protect your skin from harmful free radicals and it’s been shown to fight inflammation. In addition, coconut oil contains active components which repair damaged skin and help you look younger.
To start getting more youthful looking skin with coconut oil, simply rub a small amount onto your face and neck. Your skin will instantly feel smoother and more hydrated after using the coconut oil and over time you’ll find that fine lines, wrinkles and blemishes fade away. If you’re a fan of oils, I like to combine essential oils such as lavender, frankincense, rose, yang yang and citrus blends. Everyone responds to oils differently, so it’s important to test a small area and use the coconut (or other carrier oil) as a blend.
Coconut oil is also great for adding moisture to your feet, hair and nails. It’s great to apply to the bottom of your feet and heels after a warm relaxing or detox bath. Detox Baths: Boost Your Immune System with Detox Baths
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil is another potent natural moisturizer. I discovered this even more so while on a trip to Greece last year. The secret to extra virgin olive oil’s anti-aging prowess lies in its high vitamin E content. This vitamin is a powerful antioxidant that protects your skin against the visible signs of aging and keep it looking youthful.
To use extra virgin olive oil as an anti-aging solution, simply rub a small amount into your skin. For the best results, use extra virgin olive oil just before bed, so that it can deeply moisturize your skin overnight.
Honey
I love honey for so many reasons! Especially raw local honey. It’s a great deep cleanser for your skin. It’s loaded with anti-bacterial ingredients which remove bacteria and dead skin cells and allow fresh, younger looking skin cells to grow.
Unlike the other solutions on this list, honey is best used as a simple anti-aging face-mask. Grab a tablespoon of honey, smear it over your face and leave it for at least 20 minutes. Then rinse off the honey and wash your face for instantly fresher skin.
pumpkin
Pumpkin offers many benefits when consumed internally or used topically. It’s packed with antioxidant vitamins to boost softer and smoother skin and it has been shown to boost collagen production. Something many of us desire as we age.
Pumpkin can be used topically on the face and neck or combined with other ingredients, such as honey. A little goes a long way, so a tablespoon or two will do.
Try this amazing Age Defying Smoothie Bowl Recipe for ageless beauty:
- 1 frozen banana
- 1/2 cup frozen cherries
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or dairy free milk of choice)
- 1/2 fresh banana cut into coins
- fresh raspberries
- fresh cranberries
- 1 tablespoon shell-less pumpkin seeds
- 1 tablespoon coconut flakes
- 1 teaspoon chia seeds
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1 tablespoon hemp seeds
Take your banana, frozen cherries, and almond milk and blend it into liquid mixture. This is going to be the base of your smoothie bowl. You can place your banana slices to the side or simply drop them into the bowl. Put your fresh fruit into the bowl, then sprinkle the seeds and coconut flakes all over the entire bowl, and you will have a beautifully colored smoothie bowl that will keep your skin looking youthful and healthy!
Do you have some anti-aging tips of your own? I would love to hear! I welcome you to comment below.