Skin care from leftovers

There’s more than enough of the stuff that we consume that ends up being dumped on this hapless planet of ours. How about making gainful use of our leftovers for a change and in the process being kind to our bodies? It’s a win win situation for everyone concerned.

Pumpkin Enzyme Masque
Pumpkin helps fight dry skin with Vitamins A and C, as well as zinc and beneficial alpha-hydroxy acids. It is essential that you use homemade pumpkin purée so that essential enzymes are not lost.
Ingredients:
¼ cup pumpkin purée
1 tbsp plain yogurt
1 tsp grated fresh ginger
3 tsp honey
Juice of 1/2 a lemon

Method:
Combine all the ingredients together in a blender or with a wooden spoon. Apply a thick layer all over your face, being careful to avoid the eyes and mouth. Keep it on your face for about 10 minutes and then gently remove with a wash cloth and warm soapy water.


Homemade Cranberry Lip Gloss
Ingredients:
1 tbsp almond oil
1 tsp plain yogurt
1 tsp honey
1 tsp petroleum jelly
10 fresh cranberries

Method:
1. Heat in a water bath until the mixture begins to boil.
2. Stir gently to mash berries and let sit for five minutes.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve.


Pomegranate Body Scrub
Rough Pomegranate seeds are a potent dose of antioxidants and good for exfoliating dry skin and bringing smooth, younger looking skin to the surface. Start with an oil base, add raw sugar, and honey. Add fragrance with orange peel and of course, a good dose of pomegranate seeds.

Ingredients:
2 tbsp avocado oil
2 tbsp raw sugar
2 tbsp honey
1 tsp orange peel
1 tbsp pomegranate seeds

Method:
Combine mixture completely. Apply to your skin with a wash cloth or luffa. Gently scrub your face and then rinse with warm water.



Cinnamon and Nutmeg Acne Masque
Nutmeg has anti-inflammatory qualities so it helps to calm flare-ups as well as reduce redness of acne scars. Cinnamon is a natural exfoliant as well and known for its antiseptic qualities. Combined with moisturizing honey, it serves as a balm to tender skin.
Ingredients:
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp honey

Method:
Combine into a thick paste. Apply to your face for half an hour and then rinse off with warm water. Moisturize as per usual afterwards.