We all know that Thanksgiving foods taste good, but did you know that many of the yummy ingredients have amazing skincare applications too? It’s true. Our favorite Turkey Day eats are rich in enzymes, antioxidants, and vitamins and minerals. No wonder many of the top skincare companies have launched special products based on these foods.
The pumpkin is a powerful squash. Not only does it make a wonderful pie, it’s also rich in vitamins A, C, E, and Zinc (all natural anti-agers and skin regenerators). It also contains a lot of active enzymes, making it an active addition to facial peels and masques.
The cranberry is a “super fruit”. So named for its high content of polyphenol antioxidants. It is also very high in vitamin C, a natural anti-ager and pigment regulator.
There are plenty of tempting products on the market that utilize the skincare versions of these foods, but take a second look at your pantry, chances are you have the makings for some facial recipes at home. Here are a few beautifying concoctions to try on the fly this Thanksgiving:
Cranberry, Lemon, & Chamomile Facial Toner.
1 cup of fresh cranberries (for vitamin C, antioxidants, anti-bacterial properties)
1 ½ cup of water (hydration)
2 chamomile tea bags (calming to the skin)
1 fresh lemon (a natural preserver, anti-microbial properties and it’s rich in vitamin C)
Boil the cranberries in the water, and after five minutes add in a few tbsp of chamomile flowers or two chamomile tea bags, and boil for five minutes more. Cool and strain out the liquid, squeeze in the lemon juice and straining out the pulp, and put it in a clean mist bottle. Spray as you please on your face, or anywhere you would like for a toning and invigorating boost of antioxidants. Refrigerate after each use to help it last longer.
Cinnamon and Sugar Body Scrub.
1/2 cup coconut oil—olive oil or grape seed oil will also work (a natural cleanser and moisturizer)
2 tsp ground cinnamon (muscle relaxer and astringent properties)
½ cup raw sugar—refined sugar will also work (a natural exfoliator)
Mix all ingredients together. Liberally apply and scrub your body in the shower or bath in a circular motion. Leave on for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Enjoy your new skin!
