With the temperature dipping, women struggle to look for an array of lotions which could face the onslaught of the winds, cold temperature, harsh sun rays to help revive and rejuvenate tired, dull, dark and lacklustre skin. But before you rush to the market, take a flashback and check your daily diet. Remember the famous quote, “You are what you eat”. Whoever said that was not kidding. Beauty expert Shahnaz Husain will guide you in making the winter diet chart. The winter seasonal fruits not only give you the right nutrition but can also do wonders to your skin.
Markets are now flooded with a variety of seasonal fruits and these tasty delights are brimming with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals which keep your body and skin well hydrated.
Apples: Apples contain a wealth of nutrients like Vitamins C, B6, riboflavin, potassium, copper, manganese and magnesium. It is also packed with phytonutrients and flavonoids. Apples contain pectin, which is said to have a soothing effect on dry, sensitive skin. An apple is a wonderful skin toner. They also have anti-oxidant properties. Apples contain fruit acids which have a powerful cleansing effect on the skin removing dead skin cells. This helps to brighten the skin and gradually clear away blemishes, like dark spots. Raw apple pulp or apple juice can be applied on the skin daily and then washed off with plain water after 20 minutes. Grated apple can be added to face masks. Mix oats with curd, honey and apple pulp or grated apple into a paste. Apply on the face and wash it off after 20 to 30 minutes. Apple cider vinegar, which is obtained from apples, is an ideal treatment for dandruff and also adds shine to the hair. After shampoo, add two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to a mug of water and use it as the last rinse. Yes, an apple a day also keeps beauty problems at bay!
Lemon: We all know that lemon is a rich source of Vitamin C, which is needed in winter. As a cosmetic ingredient, lemon can be used in various ways but avoid using it undiluted as it can be harsh on the skin. However, on areas where the skin is thicker, like elbows and knees, rub lemon halves and wash off with water. For rough hands, rub granulated sugar and the juice of a lemon together on the hands, till the sugar dissolves. Then rinse off with water. Boil used tea leaves in enough water and cool the liquid. Add the juice of one lemon and use it as the last rinse for shiny hair.
Oranges: Oranges may be used in hair packs. The rind of oranges adds to hair lustre. It also reduces oiliness. Keep orange peels and simmer them in water over a low fire. Cool and strain. Use the water to mix hair packs. For example, a protein pack may be made using lentils and egg white. The lentils should be soaked in water overnight. Next morning, grind the lentils, add egg and the orange-peel water, to mix into a pack for the hair. It cleanses, reduces oiliness and adds body and shine. Orange juice can be used to rinse the hair after shampoo. It helps to restore the normal acid-alkaline balance and reduce oiliness. It is also rich in Vitamin C. After your shampoo, add the juice of 2 oranges to half a mug of water and use as the last rinse. Leave on for 2 minutes and then rinse with plain water.
Neroli, which is orange flower oil, has been used in both skin and hair care. Neroli oil is used in aromatherapy due to its calming and anti-stress benefits. It can be added to carrier oils to make hair oils. It has to be diluted and added in the correct proportion to the carrier oil. It is said to calm the mind and is useful in stress related hair problems, like hair loss.
Banana: Banana, one of the most popular fruits, packs quite a punch in terms of nutrition and health benefits. It is one of the richest sources of potassium and also contains Vitamin C and B6. Bananas are beneficial for both skin and hair treatments. Its potassium content helps to soften both dry hair and dry skin. Bananas can be made into a pulp and added to both face and hair packs. Bananas can be made into a pulp and applied on the hair like a pack. Leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes and then wash it off. Egg yolk or curd may be added to mashed bananas and applied as hair pack. If the hair is very dry, add one teaspoon pure glycerin or honey to the banana pack. Almond oil may also be added to the banana hair pack.
Avocado: Avocados are excellent for skin care as they boost cell renewal. It contains Vitamins B and C which help to build new cells and strengthen the immune system. It also has Vitamin A and E which keep the skin soft and smooth. In fact, avocado juice or oil can be very nourishing for the skin and hair. For home hair care, mash the avocado, add honey and a little lemon juice. This can be applied on the hair as a pack. In fact, it can also be applied on the face. Wash it off after half an hour.