Avocado secrets for your skin

Did you know that avocados are classified as part of the berry family? It is one of the few fruits that provide high amounts of vitamins, fats and proteins, therefore it is practically a super food.

Avocados are packed with nutrients such as vitamin C, B1, B2, B3, B6, K, E, folate, iron, zinc, magnesium and others. I was surprised to find out that they contain four times the potassium content in bananas.

The good news is that avocados do not make you fat. The healthy fats are all utilized and even help curb food cravings. Therefore, eating avocados is highly beneficial for both your body and skin. Let’s see what avocado does for you when used externally.

Nourishing and moisturizing your skin

If you have dry or mature skin, avocados are a wonderful addition to your beauty regimen. They are anti-aging as they help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Many of us probably grew up watching our mothers smear avocado on their faces.

You can use this face mask on all skin types. Use the ripest avocado and use it before it turns brown.

Honey face mask

Both honey and avocado are extremely moisturizing therefore use this mask on dry skin. Mash a quarter ripe avocado with one teaspoon of honey. Apply onto clean, exfoliated skin and leave for 15 minutes.

Rinse with warm water and moisturize. You can also experiment with other moisture-enhancing ingredients by adding an egg yolk, or a mashed, steamed carrot, or fresh aloe vera pulp.

Avocado oily skin face mask

Did you know that you can use avocado on oily skin? Mix half a ripe avocado with one teaspoon of lemon juice and one egg white. Blend all the ingredients together and apply on clean skin.

 Lemon is a natural astringent which controls oil, while egg whites strengthen the skin, shrinks pores and absorbs excess oils. The avocado nourishes and balances the skin. Wash off the mask after 20 minutes and moisturize skin.

Cucumber face mask

Use this mask if you have sensitive skin. Mix equal amounts of avocado and cucumber and blend until smooth. The cucumber helps to soothe skin irritations while also reducing puffiness. Apply for 15 minutes and rinse off.

As a natural sunscreen

Avocado oil can be used as a natural sunscreen and also as an after-sun lotion. It helps to protect the skin from harmful UV rays and environmental damage. Avocado oil is available at health food shops and at various markets.

It is very rich and may be too dense for some skin types. I have found that it works well for oil cleansing. Apply a layer of oil on your face and massage in a circular motion. Put a wash cloth in very hot water.

Wring it and place it on your face. The steam will cleanse your face while breaking down the oil. Repeat three times and apply a thin layer of moisturizer.

With avocados, you can’t have too much of a good thing. You can it daily both internally and externally, for vibrant, youthful skin.