Did you ever think of putting coffee grounds on your skin? Did you have the same thought about oats? If you did, then you clicked on the right article! This homemade face and body scrub is incredibly easy to make and helps nourish the skin. Learning about the different uses of ingredients, especially foods, can open your world to exciting possibilities. Plus, there are many benefits to scrubbing different foods on the skin. 

Is Coffee Good For Your Skin?

In short, yes, or it is possible that caffeine encourages healthier skin. A 2013 study found that caffeic acid, an antioxidant in coffee, may enhance collagen production, which works to reduce signs of aging. A separate study from 2015 found a link between drinking coffee and reduced signs of “photoaging.” In the case of the study, photoaging referred to pigmented spots and wrinkles. 

There is one caveat about coffee and cosmetics. Most coffee-related research focuses on drinking coffee or using cosmetic products that contain caffeine. Most studies do not focus on coffee scrubs, so it is difficult to generalize the results of these studies in relation to the coffee scrub in this article. That said, there is likely no harm in using a coffee scrub on your body. Much like other exfoliants, coffee scrubs can help:

• Unclog pores
• Slough away dead skin cells
• Temporarily reduce the appearance of cellulite
• Brighten skin

Are Oats Good For The Skin?

Much like coffee, oats are best known for their culinary uses. Oats have been a cultivated food source for humans for over 3,000 years. Some researchers note that the oldest cultivated oat grains date back to the early Bronze Age. Despite the mass consumption of oats, people have used them for a variety of cosmetic purposes, including natural skin cleansers. One of the primary benefits of oats is that they help to hydrate and nourish dry skin. Many studies show that skin care products containing oatmeal can reduce skin dryness and associated symptoms, such as itching, flaking, or tightness. In addition to keeping the skin well-hydrated, oats also help to balance the skin’s pH. Oats are essentially a pH buffer, helping your skin maintain a healthy pH of around 5.0.

Does Avocado Oil Encourage Healthier Skin?

Avocado is naturally rich in vitamin E, potassium, and lecithin, all of which work to nourish and moisturize the skin. The skin’s outermost layer, the epidermis, can easily absorb these nutrients, which can encourage the formation of healthy, new skin. The antioxidants in avocado oil may help to repair damaged skin or soothe irritated skin and redness. That makes avocado oil a helpful ingredient for people with psoriasis or eczema. Finally, some studies have suggested that avocado oil may help ease the symptoms of sunburn. A 2011 review of studies found that the vitamin E, protein, essential fatty acids, and beta-carotene in avocado oil help soothe the skin and encourage healing. 

DIY Face And Body Scrub

Ingredients For Coffee Infused Oil:

• 1 cup avocado oil
• 1/2 cup coffee grounds

Ingredients For Scrub:

• 8 tablespoons coffee grounds
• 4 tablespoons oats
• 4 tablespoons coffee infused oil
• 20 drops vanilla essential oil

Instructions:

• To make the coffee infused oil, put the coffee grounds into a glass jar and pour the avocado oil into the jar. Screw the lid on and let it sit in the sun for a few weeks, shaking every so often. 
• After a few weeks, strain the oil through a cheesecloth and save the strained oil to make the scrub. 
• Add the coffee grounds and oatmeal to a blender or food processor and blend until you get a fine powder. 
• Pour in the blended mixture into a bowl and then add in the coffee infused oil and essential oil. Mix well until you achieve an even consistency. 
• To use, mix this scrub with a little water and spread over your face and body. Rinse with lukewarm water and then finish your skin care routine.

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The mighty avocado is more than an ingredient that restaurants charge extra for. It is a tropical fruit that exhibits an impressive nutrition profile. It is naturally rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats that help to keep the body healthy and strong. That probably isn’t news to you if you aren’t a stranger to guacamole, chocolate avocado pudding, or avocado toast. 

What you may not realize is that avocados benefit the skin, whether you eat them or apply them topically. Because they contain a lot of antioxidants and vitamin E, avocados are great for people with sensitive skin. In this article, we’ll detail a few skin benefits of avocados and why they are common ingredients in skin care products.

Avocado Oil And Avocado Extract In Skin Care

Avocado oil and avocado extract are not the same. Both are derived from the avocado fruit, but the oil is pressed from dried avocado pulp, which contains the fruit’s skin and pit. Avocado extract tends to be derived from the fruit and leaves of the avocado tree. The fruit’s extract is a concentrated liquid that has been the focus of many recent studies for its therapeutic benefits in medical settings. 

Although both avocado oil and avocado extract have their place in skin care products, avocado oil is used more commonly. It is naturally rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, including oleic acid, and vitamins A, C, and E. Due to the oil’s high fat content, it is very useful in skin care products intended for dry or chapped skin. Continue reading to learn more about the skin benefits of avocado oil and extract.

Rich In Antioxidants

According to several studies, the avocado fruit, the oil, and the extract contain a lot of antioxidants, especially polyphenols and carotenoids. These antioxidant compounds work to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which commonly form after exposure to UV rays, pollution, and environmental aggressors. The accumulation of free radicals on the skin can damage the DNA of skin cells, which contributes to premature signs of aging. Neutralizing these free radicals can protect the skin and keep it healthy. 

Avocado oil is commonly used in facial cleansers and eye serums for this reason. When combined with other ingredients, such as olive oil or sweet almond oil, it can help remove dirt, oil, and other impurities without stripping the skin of its natural barrier. Avocado oil also provides long-lasting moisture, which is especially beneficial for people with dry skin. 

A Powerful Moisturizer

As we were just saying, avocado oil is an excellent ingredient that keeps the skin moisturized. The oil contains about 62% lipids, most of which are monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Studies confirm that avocado oil can easily penetrate the skin’s moisture barrier more effectively than other plant oils. That makes avocado oil great for people with dry or flaky skin. You may see avocado oil or extract in moisturizers or hydrating masks for this reason. These creams and masks may help minimize water loss, creating more supple, hydrated skin. These tend to be great for all skin types, but always do a patch test on your arm to see if you develop a reaction. 

Offers Soothing Benefits

If you have sensitive skin, inflammation may be a daily occurrence, whether you are aware of it or not. Inflammation is one of the skin’s responses to irritants, including pollution, extreme temperatures, or harsh ingredients. Eczema, for example, is an inflammatory skin condition. Avocado oil may help soothe the appearance of irritated skin. It offers moisturizing properties that may help soften parched or callused skin. Apply a generous amount of avocado oil to dry feet or hands before bed, and then wear socks and gloves. That will prevent the oil from staining sheets while locking in moisture for softer skin in the morning.

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Avocado oil, much like avocados, is a great source of healthy fats. Through various research studies, it has demonstrated an ability to protect and support heart health. It also provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, including vitamin E and carotenoids. Not only is avocado oil nutritious, but it is also safe for high-heat cooking. You can use it in various ways to incorporate more heart-healthy fats into your diet. Continue reading to learn about five impressive health benefits of this oil. 

A Great Source Of Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a great nutrient that helps protect cells against oxidative damage, which could potentially increase the risk of chronic diseases. It is involved with cellular communication, metabolic processes, and immune function. Vitamin E works to support heart health by improving blood flow and preventing blood clotting. It may also prevent oxidative changes to LDL cholesterol. If there are oxidative changes to LDL cholesterol, you may have an increased risk of atherosclerosis, or plaque build-up in the arteries. 

Although vitamin E is essential to your overall health, a large majority of the population in the United States doesn’t consume the recommended daily intake (RDI). In fact, studies suggest that 96% of women and 90% of men in the United States have insufficient vitamin E intake. Just two tablespoons of avocado oil can provide seven milligrams (mg) of vitamin E, which satisfies 47% of the RDI. Do your best to purchase unrefined, cold-pressed avocado oil, as that contains more vitamin E than refined versions.

May Support Heart Health

As previously mentioned, vitamin E may help improve blood flow and prevent oxidative changes to LDL cholesterol. Vitamin E is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids and contains polyphenols, all of which help reduce the risk of heart disease. Using avocado oil in place of butter and other saturated fats may help reduce LDL cholesterol levels. A small study involving overweight participants monitored reactions when they replaced butter with avocado oil in a high-fat, high-carb meal. Post-meal levels of LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, and inflammatory markers all reduced. More research and larger studies are necessary to determine avocado oil’s full effects on heart health.

Rich In Fatty Acids

Avocado oil is composed of 71% monounsaturated fatty acids, 13% polyunsaturated fatty acids, and 16% saturated fatty acids. According to researchers, diets rich in monounsaturated fatty acids can help protect against heart disease. One study found that people who consumed monounsaturated fatty acids from plant sources had a significantly lower risk of dying from cancer and heart disease. The study showed how replacing saturated fatty acids with monounsaturated fatty acids from plant sources reduced risk of mortality. One of the primary fatty acids in avocado oil, oleic acid, may support healthy body weight by regulating appetite. 

Contains Antioxidant Compounds

Some of avocado oil’s plant compounds include proanthocyanidins, polyphenols, and carotenoids. These compounds work to regulate inflammation and protect against oxidative damage. Studies confirm that diets rich in carotenoids and polyphenols can help protect against heart disease and neurodegenerative diseases. As stated earlier regarding vitamin E, the refining process of avocado oil can significantly reduce the antioxidant content. Be sure to purchase unrefined, cold-pressed avocado oil for this reason. 

May Benefit Eye Health

Avocado oil and avocado  are good sources of lutein, a carotenoid and antioxidant that is naturally found in the eyes. According to research, a diet rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, another carotenoid, is essential for optimal eye health. In fact, these two carotenoids may help reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration, both of which are common age-related eye conditions. The body does not produce lutein on its own, so you have to obtain it through your diet. Enjoying avocado and avocado oil may help increase your lutein intake to support your eyes.

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A new study suggests that the key to a longer life may be in the types of fats you eat. Specifically, dietary fat from plants, not animals, proves to be much healthier for the body. For the study, researchers observed more than 400,000 adults over the course of two decades. The study began when the participants were 61 years old on average. During the study period, about 185,000 people died, and 59,000 of those deaths were attributed to heart disease. 

Researchers observed that participants who consumed the highest intake of plant fats were 9% less likely to die during the study period compared to those who ate the least of those foods. Participants who ate the most plant fats were also 16% less likely to die from heart disease during the study. People who consumed the highest amount of animal fats were 16% more likely to die of all causes. They were 14% more likely to die of cardiovascular causes than people who ate the smallest amount of animal fats. 

Benefits Of Plant Fats

The study was not a controlled experiment designed to prove how specific fats could be harmful or beneficial. There are, however, several good reasons to consume plant fats, one of which being that you are less likely to die from premature death. A person who consumes a higher percentage of plant fats tends to consume more plant-based foods than animal foods. That aligns with the fact that whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and legumes can benefit heart health. 

Additionally, plant-based fats are unsaturated fats. Consuming a higher ratio of unsaturated to saturated fats has been associated with improved lipid metabolism and better cholesterol levels. When researchers examined plant fats and animal fats, they found that plant fats helped increase longevity. Plant fats come from whole grains and certain vegetable oils, such as olive or avocado oils. 

Benefits Of Vegetable Oils And Grains

During the study, people who got most of their fats from grains were 8% less likely to die of all causes. They were also 14% less likely to die of cardiovascular-related problems, especially compared to people who consumed the smallest amount of plant fats. Similarly, people who got most of their fats from vegetable oils were 12% less likely to die of all causes, and 15% less likely to die of cardiovascular problems. 

Olive oil, peanut oil, and avocado oil, in addition to others, are common in plant-based diets. The important takeaway is not to just use those oils with animal fats; rather, it is to consume less animal-based fats overall. Certain animal fats stood out in the study, particularly because they had a stronger link to premature death. Participants who consumed the highest amount of dairy fat, for example, were 9% more likely to die of all causes. They were also 7% more likely to die of cardiovascular causes than participants who consumed the least amount of these fats. 

Some sources of animal fats, such as red meat, have been linked to a higher risk of premature death. People who want to reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke should limit their intake of red meat and avoid egg yolks, according to dietitians. Egg whites are acceptable, as they do not contain the cholesterol that exists in yolks. 

How To Increase Your Intake Of Plant Fats

Looking to reduce your intake of animal fats and increase your intake of plant fats? It is best to start off slow, for example, adopting a meatless Monday habit. You will only eat plant-based foods on Mondays, and you can build on that as you get more familiar with plant-based foods. Red meat and processed meats are linked to a wide variety of chronic health conditions that can reduce your overall lifespan. 

What does that mean for your diet? Well, keep in mind that you can still be unhealthy and eat plant-based foods. Increase your consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, and healthy plant oils. Use olive oil instead of corn oil. Replace ground beef with lentils. Put chickpeas in your salad in place of grilled chicken. Switching up your eating habits may just add years to your life!

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Heading to the beach, pool, or lake this summer? What would a day by the water be without a little color? The goal is not to turn into a lobster; rather, it should be to get a subtle kiss from the sun in the form of a tan.

Spending a lot of time in the sun can be dangerous if you don’t take the proper measures to protect your skin. You can continue to apply sunscreen (preferably a safe mineral version) and spend trade off between sun exposure and time in the shade. Should you want to absorb some free vitamin D and tan, you may want to use a tanning oil. 

How Does Tanning Oil Work?

Essentially, a tanning oil helps to accelerate the process of tanning when you are out in the sun. Tanning oils attract more UV rays to help you achieve a deeper tan by allowing your skin to absorb them at an increased rate. When you apply a thin layer of tanning oil to the skin, you lower the skin’s refractive index. The result is a nice looking tan, but how healthy is this process for your skin? 

Most tanning oils lack SPF protection, even if you use natural oils, including coconut oil, sunflower oil, or olive oil. Most tanning oils have 15 SPF or less, but that is not enough to protect your skin from UV rays. Without proper SPF protection, the skin is not protected from sun exposure. Tanning is inherently “not great” for your skin, but you can tan smartly. If you want to tan, try to use an SPF of at least 30 and reapply every couple hours. Don’t forget to find shade so you aren’t in the sun for too long. 

A quick note: tanning is ultimately caused by an increase of melanin pigment formation. That only results from damage to the skin from harmful UV rays. Just keep that in mind when you decide to tan. 

Sun Protective Natural Ingredients

It is very important to understand that natural oils do not offer the same sun protection as natural oils. A 2021 study found that raspberry seed oil sits around 2.6 SPF, while carrot seed, coconut and wheat germ oils range from 0 to 2.8 SPF. A previous study from 2010 looked at the SPF of carrier oils and essential oils. Carrier oils ranged from 2 to 8 SPF, while essential oils ranged from 1 to 7 SPF. Olive oil and peppermint essential oil scored the highest. The only downside is that the study wasn’t conducted on human skin.

Even though the DIY tanning oil recipe in this article is not the same as regular sunscreen, it is healthier than a store bought tanning oil. This tanning oil contains olive oil, which has oleic acid and supports clearer skin. It also helps repair sun damage and may soothe dry skin. Plus, olive oil has high levels of squalene, which protects skin cells from aging. 

This tanning oil also contains avocado oil, which helps increase collagen production. Avocado oil is also rich in UV-protectant carotenoids, which offer mild protection from sun damage. Carrot seed oil offers vitamin A and vitamin E protection, which help fight off UV rays. Finally, raspberry seed oil is rich in antioxidants and doesn’t leave a greasy film after application. 

DIY Tanning Oil

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red raspberry seed oil
• 1/2 teaspoon carrot seed oil
• 10 drops sandalwood essential oil (optional)
• 10 drops lavender essential oil (optional)
• 1 teaspoon bronze mica powder (optional)

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients, including the optional ones if using, to an amber glass bottle and shake well to combine. If you have a bottle with a pump or pop top, that is ideal. 
• Use as needed for mild sun exposure to help get a golden tan without burning the skin. 
• As a reminder, this is not a replacement for sunscreen and should not be used as such.

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As you prepare to soak up the sun during the upcoming summer season, make sure that you protect your skin from the sun’s rays. You’ve likely seen more sunscreen sprays and lotions available with summer on the horizon. Maybe you looked at a few, but didn’t think it was close enough to summer to splurge on sunscreen. Did you know that traditional sunscreen may pose a threat to your skin and the environment? Natural sunscreen is not only effective, but also great for your skin and environmentally friendly. 

Natural sunscreens use mineral-based ingredients like titanium oxide or zinc oxide to block the sun’s rays. These types of sunscreens contain ingredients that are gentler on the skin. They also provide more moisture without irritating the skin, which means you are less likely to experience a reaction. Chemical-based ingredients, on the other hand, absorb UV rays instead of blocking them. These ingredients have been known to cause skin allergies or irritation in young and sensitive skin. 

Natural sunscreen also provides broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. That means that they have higher sun protection factor (SPF), so you can soak up the sun for longer without needing to reapply every hour. You still have to reapply natural sunscreen for optimum skin safety, though. Let’s take a closer look at some of this recipe’s ingredients below.

Zinc Oxide

This is the mineral of choice when it comes to blocking UVA and UVB sun rays. One study found zinc oxide to be effective against a broad range of solar spectrum in experimental models and outdoor settings. It is the only active ingredient in sunscreen that is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for infants under six months. Most commercial sunscreens that don’t leave a white residue use nano-sized zinc oxide. Unfortunately, one study found that nano-sized zinc oxide absorbs easily into the skin and can cause unknown problems. Nanoparticles of both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide may cause potential photocarcinogenecity, cytotoxicity, and genotoxicity. 

Carrier Oils

Not only do carrier oils work to condition the skin and help improve moisture content, but some of them also provide SPF qualities. Great choices include coconut oil, carrot seed oil, mango and cocoa butters, and avocado oil. The SPF value of avocado oil, coconut oil, and olive oil sit around 8, while almond oil sits around 5. Most nonvolatile oils sit between an SPF value of 2 and 8. That means that olive oil and coconut oil have the best SPF values, which is helpful when it comes to selecting carrier oils in the formulation of sunscreens. For this recipe, you will only need coconut oil and shea butter, both of which offer sufficient SPF value.

Natural Sunscreen Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 1/4 cup shea butter
• 2 tablespoons beeswax pastilles 
• 2 tablespoons of zinc oxide powder (non nano!)
• 1 tsp cocoa powder (this will vary according to skin tone, but test on your skin at time of blending to adjust if necessary)

Instructions:

• Place a small saucepan filled with a few inches of water over medium low heat. 
• Add the coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax pastilles to a heat-safe glass jar and place it in the saucepan on the stove. Leave the jar in the saucepan, stirring occasionally until completely melted. 
• Remove the saucepan from the stove and add the zinc oxide powder and cocoa powder to the jar. Stir to combine, ensuring that there are no powder lumps (30 seconds of stirring should suffice).
• Pour the sunscreen mixture into a glass storage container and allow it to cool at room temperature. Cover when cooled. 
• The sunscreen will maintain firmness as long as you keep it out of direct sunlight and not outside in temperatures that exceed 90º Fahrenheit.

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It’s safe to say that people are not afraid of putting oils on their skin anymore, and rightly so. That’s great, considering that beauty shelves used to be replete with oil-free ads. Applying oil to the skin is not a new practice; rather, many cultures have used oils to benefit the skin for centuries. Various oils exhibit skin-nourishing properties, but you do have to find the right oil for your skin type. 

What Is A Carrier Oil?

A carrier oil is plant-based and tends to have a neutral or mild scent. You can use them on their own, or mix them with other oils, such as essential oils. The great thing about carrier oils is that they do not contain fillers or chemicals that you typically find in store bought skin care products. The main thing to keep in mind when buying these oils, though, is to make sure they are cold-pressed. That is the best method of extraction for preserving their health properties. 

A carrier oil can help to naturally moisturize, protect, and improve the overall quality of the skin. Different carrier oils may benefit certain skin conditions, while others aim to rejuvenate and improve the skin’s appearance. Some can even help you balance oil production, offer anti-aging effects, and enhance the skin barrier. Below, you will find great carrier oils for different skin types. 

Hemp Seed Oil

Hemp seed oil is naturally rich in both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which help it function as a natural humectant. A humectant is a substance that attracts water, so it helps to hydrate the skin, nails, and even hair. Hemp seed oil is non comedogenic, meaning it will not clog your pores, and that makes it suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone or oily skin. The antioxidants in hemp seed oil work to reduce the signs of aging, while the anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritated skin. 

Sunflower Oil

Beauty experts note that sunflower oil is naturally balanced, meaning it is not too heavy or too light. Sunflower oil is widely available and works to promote skin hydration, protect the skin barrier, and reduce water loss. According to research, sunflower oil is naturally rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which is why it is a common ingredient in anti-aging skin care products. Several studies indicate that the anti-inflammatory properties in sunflower oil benefit people with eczema, or general redness or skin irritation. Use it as a post-shower body oil, an anti-aging mask, or after-sun nourishment. 

Olive Oil

Rich in vitamins A and E, olive oil is a great carrier oil choice if you want to reduce premature signs of aging. Olive oil’s polyphenols, antioxidants, and immune enhancers make it great for skin protection. It works to fight the effects of sun damage and may even soothe inflammation. That said, do not use olive oil topically if you have a history of eczema or allergic contact dermatitis. It has been associated with worsening atopic dermatitis.

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil is extracted from the seeds of the jojoba plant, jojoba oil is one of the most common carrier oils in existence. It is beneficial for nearly all skin types and is rich in antioxidants, vitamin E, and nourishing fatty acids. Jojoba oil can help moisturize the skin without leaving a heavy residue behind. You can use jojoba oil if you have combination skin, dry skin, or oily skin because it mimics the skin’s natural oils. Jojoba oil is also a natural emollient, helping to maintain a protective skin barrier. 

Sweet Almond Oil

Sure, almonds are a healthy, filling snack, but have you ever used sweet almond oil to nourish your skin? If you have very sensitive or dry skin, sweet almond oil will be a great moisturizing treat for your skin. It is replete with vitamin E, fatty acids, proteins, and various minerals, all of which encourage healthier skin. You can use sweet almond oil as a body oil, combining it with rose petals for an optimal floral scent and enhanced antioxidant activity.

Argan Oil

Great for the hair and skin, argan oil has been an effective moisturizer and cosmetic oil for centuries. Although evidence-based studies are lacking, argan oil has helped many people reduce premature signs of aging. Some research indicates that argan oil can restore some of the skin’s natural hydration and elasticity after menopause. Its anti-melanin action makes argan oil great for evening out skin tone. Argan oil also works to promote collagen production, replenish the skin with fatty acids, and treat acne.

Avocado Oil

As you know, avocados are naturally rich in fatty acids and beneficial nutrients. That makes avocado oil the perfect oil for moisturizing dry skin. Because it has vitamins A, D, and E, avocado oil helps support collagen production and fights signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles. Among other beneficial properties, avocado oil works to moisturize dry skin and fight free radicals, which contribute to early signs of aging.

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There’s nothing better or easier than a blender dressing. Add all of the ingredients to the blender, blitz until smooth, and then enjoy immediately. Blender dressings thoroughly incorporate all of the ingredients, and you can always adjust flavors if necessary. With this Thai dressing, you may need to tinker with measurements to appease your palate, but the recipe is evenly balanced.

Not only is this Thai dressing great on salads, but it also works as a marinade or dipping sauce. In addition to being raw vegan, this recipe happens to be Whole30- and paleo-approved. That’s what happens when you focus on real foods! The raw almond butter provides a nutty, slightly salty flavor that is balanced by the coconut aminos, dates, and lime juice. If you know Thai flavors, you know that there are many ingredients, but they all balance each other out. You have citrus, spice, nutty, sweet, salty, and every other nook and cranny of the flavor spectrum!

One thing to keep in mind when making this dressing is that you have to use a neutral-flavored oil. That doesn’t mean that you go straight for unhealthy vegetable or corn oil; rather, use avocado oil or grapeseed oil instead of olive oil. The recipe calls for avocado oil, but grapeseed oil is an acceptable replacement. Olive oil will alter the flavor because it has a specific flavor that doesn’t necessarily mesh with the rest of the ingredients.

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The great thing about homemade body butter is that you can select ingredients and formulations that cater to your skin’s needs. Not only can you experiment with texture, but you can also tweak the moisture content. Although some people enjoy having body butters that are specific to different times of the year, there is something special about having a body butter you can use no matter the season. 

This mango body butter contains four ingredients: mango butter, avocado oil, vitamin E oil, and arrowroot powder. The first three ingredients work nourish the skin, while arrowroot powder enables the body butter to have a more appealing, lightweight texture. Additionally, arrowroot powder helps you avoid a greasy finish to the skin after application. You just have to mix in the arrowroot powder after you melt, mix, and then chill the butters and oils that you’re using. It will truly give your body butter a luxurious texture. 

Mango Butter

Although scientific studies on mango butter are minimal, mango butter may be an under-the-radar anti-aging ingredient. Researchers have pointed out the many potential skin-nourishing benefits of mango butter, especially in regards to anti-aging, because of the compounds it contains. A high percentage of tocopherols (vitamin E) may help environmental stressors like visible light, UV rays, and pollution. Because it has a butter-like texture, mango butter is a powerful emollient for dry skin. Dermatologists agree that it forms a naturally occlusive barrier on the skin that not only protects it, but also hydrates it. Additionally, mango butter may support collagen health because of the large amount of vitamin C. 

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil contains lots of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, D, and E, in addition to a few other minerals like potassium. These nutrients work to moisturize the skin, specifically the epidermis, the skin’s outermost layer. The antioxidants in avocado oil may help alleviate dry or irritated skin. Although it is not an eczema or psoriasis remedy, people with those skin conditions may help relieve symptoms via topical application of avocado oil. Lastly, some studies found that consuming avocado oil may help the skin retain its elasticity. More research is necessary, but initial research is promising. 

Vitamin E Oil

Vitamin E oil is known for two key features: antioxidant properties and moisturizing properties. As a common ingredient in many moisturizers, vitamin E oil may help prevent dry, flaking skin. A 2013 animal study found that, when given vitamin E supplements, mice were less likely to develop skin cancer, even when exposed to lots of UV light. Studies on humans, however, have not found any skin cancer prevention associated with vitamin E use. For those who experience dry or itchy skin from eczema, vitamin E oil may help provide relief. One study found that topical vitamin E use was able to reduce psoriasis symptoms. 

DIY Mango Body Butter

Ingredients:

• 5.6 ounces mango butter
• 2.2 ounces avocado oil
• 0.1 ounce vitamin E oil
• 2 teaspoons arrowroot powder

Instructions:

• Melt the mango butter in a double boiler over medium-low heat. You can melt it in the microwave, but you have better control with the double boiler method. 
• Once melted, remove the double boiler from the heat and stir in the avocado oil and vitamin E oil. Mix well, pour into a heat-safe bowl, and then place in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes. 
• Remove the bowl from the fridge and then whip the mixture using a hand mixer. Whip for about five to seven minutes, or until light and fluffy. 
• Transfer the body butter to your favorite container and then keep it in a cool place, using as needed.

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If you regularly experience frizzy hair, chances are that you’ve experimented with different strategies to tame your mane. Frizzy hair typically happens when the cuticle layer of hair raises, allowing moisture to pass through and swell the strands. That ultimately makes hair appear dry and frizzy. Individual hair fibers also run in different directions, which is why frizzy hair feels rough instead of soft and smooth. 

If you were to look at the cuticle layer underneath a microscope, you would see that it looks like shingles on a roof. This is because hair consists of several different layers of keratin protein. The cuticle is the external layer and the inner layers are the cortex and medulla. When your cuticle layer is sealed properly, it easily retains moisture in the hair shaft for longer, making your hair less frizzy. 

What Causes Frizz?

There are four contributing factors to frizzy hair, the first being the environment, e.g. humidity. Hair fibers are just like sponges when exposed to moisture and the hydrophobic bonds from styling products break as moisture weaves in and out of hair fibers. The diameter of the hair fiber also contributes to frizz. As mentioned earlier, frizzy hair is essentially misaligned hair fibers and the thicker the fiber, the more difficult it is to reshape and tame. The third cause is how curly a person’s hair is because curlier hair has a greater challenge of aligning hair fibers. Finally, the amount of damage to hair also contributes to frizz. Consider that breakage, split ends, and cuticle loss can all give hair a frizzy appearance because hair fibers are not uniform.

What Can You Do To Reduce Frizz?

There are many things that can help you control the frizz. Frizzy hair is not easy to deal with and your efforts to control it may differ depending on hair type. Many stylists encourage people to consider the following tips when trying to control and reduce frizz:

• Avoid washing your hair every day because washing too often can deplete the hair of moisture. The lack of moisture raises hair cuticles and causes frizz. Ideally, wash your hair two to three times per week to prevent frizz. 
• Don’t use a traditional bristle hairbrush because they may damage hair cuticles and contribute to frizz. Instead, switch to a wide-toothed comb to help prevent breakage and damage. 
• Try to avoid terry cloth towels for drying your hair because cloth towels can add damaging friction to your hair. Instead, use a microfiber towel or simply allow your hair to air dry to reduce frizz. 
• It may seem like a great idea, but stylists encourage you to avoid hair dryers if you want to control the frizz. Excess heat can damage the hair and lead to frizz. Ionic hair dryers, however, reduce damage while effectively and safely drying your hair. 
• Use the homemade anti-frizz serum below because it helps to restore shine and texture, making your hair appear soft and silky. The ingredients provide your hair with moisture and help protect the hair follicle, which calms the hair and reduces frizz. If you use it, let us know how you like it in the comments below. 

Homemade Anti-Frizz Serum

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 1 tablespoon castor oil
• 1/4 cup flaxseed oil
• 10 drops cedarwood essential oil
• 6 drops rosemary essential oil
• 6 drops peppermint essential oil

Instructions:

• Using a funnel, pour the avocado oil, castor oil, and flaxseed oil into a four-ounce spray bottle. 
• Add the essential oils, screw on the top, and shake well to combine.
• In order to use, fritz the serum lightly over wet hair after a shower. Don’t apply too much because you only need a couple sprays. Too much serum will make your hair appear oily. 
• Comb the serum through your hair and then apply other styling products as needed. 
• If you have curly hair, turn your head upside down and scrunch your curls up toward your scalp. That will help your curls form a uniform pattern. Finally, comb your using a wide-toothed comb.

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