How Avocados Can Beautify You From The Inside Out
Avocados are a favorite food for people all over the world, and for good reason: this mild-tasting fruit (yes, you read that right!) is creamy, versatile, and packed with health benefits. But did you know it’s also a natural beautifier?
Whether you chow down on the avocado’s soft flesh or use it to make a topical mask, there’s goodness in the green stuff; and we’ll show you why!
For starters, that savory bowl of guacamole is more than a perfect accompaniment to your tacos. Eating avocados is great for your skin, and in more ways than one. The delicious, nutritious superfood contains a handful of nutrients and antioxidants that’ll help your complexion look healthy and fresh.
Nutrients
Omega-9 Fatty Acids:
These healthy fats help your face stay soft and moisturized, contributing to a smooth, even complexion.
Vitamins C and E:
Vitamins C and E help protect skin from damage, support the production of collagen and elastin, and contribute to the prevention of wrinkles.
Carotenoids:
These are antioxidants that reduce inflammation and shield skin from free radical damage.
But that’s just the start of it. As nutritious as avocados are to eat, they also have beautifying effects when applied topically. Your face, hair, and dry skin will all benefit from DIY treatments you can whip up with avocados.
Face Masks
This fruit’s soothing, anti-wrinkle, and moisturizing properties also make them prime ingredients in homemade face masks. Simply mash up avocado and mix in:
- cooked (and cooled!) oatmeal for hydration
- a tablespoon of honey to make skin glow
- a dollop of plain organic yogurt to help acne-prone skin
- Nothing! Plain mashed avocado moisturizes and soothes skin all on its own.
Let these masks sit for 15 minutes, rinse off, and enjoy better skin!
Skin Soother:
Avocados don’t just benefit the skin on your face; they can smooth and hydrate from head to toe! In fact, a simple mashed avocado paste can also be used to soothe minor sunburns. Apply mashed avocado on dry or irritated patches of skin, and let sit for 15 minutes before rinsing off.
Deep Conditioners
The nourishing properties of avocados can also make dry, damaged hair look shiny and silky again. Smush up some soft green flesh and blend it with:
- a banana and a few tablespoon of olive oil to reinvigorate dull hair
- cooked oatmeal and splashes of olive oil and milk to moisturize dry hair and scalp
- a bit of honey and olive oil to smooth and strengthen damaged hair
- Nothing! Avocado will add nutrients and hydration to hair all on its own.
Let masks sit for a few minutes before rinsing them out. (Try twisting hair up in a shower cap while the mask is soaking in.) You may have to wash your hair multiple times to avoid greasiness from the oils. Try mixing baking soda in with your regular shampoo for a budget-friendly hair clarifier that’s gentle but super effective!
If you love creamy avocados on your toast and salads, you’ll appreciate them even more when you start adding them to your beauty routine. There’s a whole bunch of reasons to stock up on the green stuff and enjoy getting beautified from the inside out!
Did you know that uses for this nourishing superfood go beyond the kitchen? Share your favorite avocado beauty tips in the comments below!