sulfur powder for skin

DIY TURMERIC & LEMON BRIGHTENING FACE MASK

With the colder months fast approaching, I thought it would be fun to kick off a beauty series to keep our skin glowing and hydrated all winter long. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing my favorite DIY face masks, scrubs, winter skincare tips, and more! For a glimpse into my daily routine, check out my Natural Vegan Skincare Routine.

Wouldn’t it be nice to keep that summer glow all year round? This DIY mask is not only brightening but also perfect for acne-prone skin (or any skin type!) while giving you a healthy, radiant complexion.

Now, a quick disclaimer: the vegan police might be after me for this one… While I don’t consume honey, I’ve always appreciated its medicinal properties for the skin, especially Manuka honey, which has endless healing benefits. I actually picked up a bottle of Manuka honey from Trader Joe’s over the summer without thinking much of it. But then I started feeling guilty, since vegans typically avoid honey. There’s a lot of debate within the vegan community about this, which I dive deeper into in my post about Plant-Based vs. Vegan. If you’re concerned, you can always swap out the honey for agave nectar to get that same sticky consistency!

Normally, I wouldn’t purchase products with honey, but I had this small bottle lying around, and instead of letting it go to waste, I’ve decided to use it for beauty purposes, like in this Brightening Turmeric DIY Face Mask.

A fun fact: Manuka honey comes from New Zealand, where bees feed on the nectar of the Tea Tree Plant. It’s the perfect addition to this mask for an extra glow boost!

THIS POTENT MANUKA HONEY IS ESPECIALLY GREAT FOR:

  • Healing acne and scarring
  • Fighting skin infections
  • Cleaning pores while naturally exfoliating
  • Helping skin retain moisture
  • Rejuvenating radiance and softness

NOT TO MENTION ITS:

  • Anti-bacterial properties
  • Anti-inflammatory effects
  • Anti-fungal qualities
  • High in antioxidants to protect the skin

What makes it even more special is its thicker consistency compared to regular honey, with a cloudy appearance. After soaking up some of this healing Manuka honey, my skin feels totally moisturized, balanced, and soft—it’s magical!

I’m no honey expert (I picked mine up from Trader Joe’s), but I know that higher-quality Manuka honey products are out there, like this one from Manuka Doctor, which has a higher UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) score, indicating more potency. You can really feel the difference with a higher UMF—it’s like a supercharged version of regular honey!

The next essential ingredient for this DIY face mask is turmeric – a true wonder spice, and not just for your curry recipes! This vibrant, golden powder is incredibly beautifying. I was inspired to include it in this mask from my Golden Glow Elixir Juice, which you all seemed to love as much as I did (plus, it’s great for boosting immunity during the winter months!).

Turmeric has been used for centuries in beauty rituals, especially by Indian brides who use turmeric body scrubs and masks before their weddings to achieve that head-to-toe glow. The spice is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to brighten and even out skin tone, while also giving you a luminous, radiant complexion. It’s like liquid gold for your skin!

BENEFITS OF TURMERIC:

Turmeric is a powerhouse when it comes to skincare, offering a range of benefits:

  • Reduces redness
  • Treats breakouts
  • Helps with age spots
  • Reduces scarring and hyperpigmentation
  • Helps to heal psoriasis and eczema
  • Brightens and tones
  • Anti-inflammatory properties

While fresh turmeric would be even better for this mask, I only had ground turmeric on hand, which still works wonders. Just a heads-up—turmeric is known to stain, so be sure to wear a shirt you don’t mind getting a little messy and dry your face with a dark towel. The turmeric will leave a slight yellow tint on your skin, but don’t worry! I usually wash my face with my regular sulfur soap once or twice after the mask, and the yellow tint disappears with no problem. Just a little heads-up to ensure you’re prepared!

Next up is fresh lemon juice! Lemon is packed with vitamin C, which is essential for brightening and evening out your skin tone. It’s also anti-bacterial, making it especially helpful for breakouts, while acting as a natural exfoliant to give your skin that healthy radiance. Lemon is also known to help fade acne scars over time, making it a great addition to this mask. Don’t worry though—this mask won’t sting like lemon juice sometimes does on its own! It actually feels soothing and balancing on the skin.

The final ingredient is oats, which are incredibly moisturizing, exfoliating, and softening. I blended my oats a bit in the food processor to make them finer, but you can also use oat flour if that’s easier. Just a heads-up, the mask can get a little messy depending on how finely ground your oats are, so be sure to apply it over the sink to make cleanup easier. The oats will help lock in moisture while gently sloughing off dead skin, leaving you with smooth, soft skin.

CONCLUSION

And there you have it—this Brightening Turmeric DIY Face Mask is the perfect way to keep your skin glowing and healthy throughout the colder months! With the power of Manuka honey, turmeric, fresh lemon juice, and oats, this mask works wonders to brighten, exfoliate, and heal your skin, all while leaving it soft, smooth, and balanced.

Whether you’re dealing with breakouts, acne scars, or just want to keep your skin glowing, this mask has got you covered. Plus, it’s natural, vegan (with the option to substitute for agave), and perfect for anyone looking for a simple yet effective skincare routine.

So, put on your favorite old shirt, get ready for a little mess, and treat your skin to some much-needed love and nourishment. Your skin will thank you, and you’ll be glowing all season long!

Let me know how you like it!

HOME REMEDIES FOR HAIR GROWTH AND THICKNESS

Longing for locks that gleam and boast enviable thickness? We get it! But forget cookie-cutter routines and generic products. The secret to stunning hair lies in understanding its unique needs. Now, we’ll unlock the door to easy-at-home care tailored just for you, transforming limp strands into a mane of cascading confidence.. I Keep reading!

WHAT CAUSES THE LOSS OF HAIR?

Hair loss can have a multifaceted origin, where genetic predisposition plays a pivotal role, particularly evident in androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as pattern baldness. Hormonal fluctuations arising from events like pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, thyroid disorders, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can disrupt the natural hair growth cycle, potentially leading to both temporary and permanent loss.

Furthermore, stress, whether physical or emotional, has the potential to trigger temporary hair loss, acting as a signal for individuals to prioritize self-care during challenging times. Beyond these factors, various medical conditions, including autoimmune diseases, lupus, or nutritional deficiencies, can significantly impact hair growth. Given the complexity of these issues, seeking consultation with a doctor is essential to gain a comprehensive understanding and develop a personalized treatment plan.

HOME REMEDIES FOR HAIR GROWTH

The global fascination with hair and its treatments has spurred the creation of a plethora of products, including hair oils, tonics, anti-dandruff shampoos, serums, lotions, and more. Amidst the multitude of claims, selecting the ideal hair care routine can be challenging. To simplify the decision-making process, here are several home remedies that have been tried, tested, and researched.

JOJOBA OIL AND COCONUT OIL

Jojoba oil plays a crucial role in restoring the skin’s surface and preventing inflammation. Jojoba oil for  hair growth makes it a sought-after ingredient in beauty products, creating favorable conditions for the absorption of various active components. Combining jojoba oil with coconut oil can produce an excellent remedy for dry and damaged hair.

Instructions:

  • Mix 2 tablespoons of jojoba oil with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil.
  • Apply the mixture to the scalp and hair, focusing on areas prone to hair loss.
  • Gently massage for a few minutes to allow the oils to penetrate the scalp.
  • Leave the hair treatment on for 30 minutes.
  • Wash your hair with regular shampoo.

ONIONS

 Many people swear by the benefits of using onion oil for hair growth, believing that its natural properties can nourish and strengthen hair follicles.. Don’t dismiss the potency of this remarkable remedy due to the anticipation of temporary tears and the pungent aroma of onions. Onions have recently gained significant recognition in the realm of hair fall solutions. From enhancing blood supply to hair follicles to providing natural nourishment to the scalp, consistent use of onion has resulted in users enjoying shiny, healthy, thicker, and longer locks!

Instruction

  • Grind onions to extract their juice.
  • Dab a cotton ball into the juice and evenly apply it to the scalp.
  • Wash your hair after 30 minutes.

CHEBE POWDER AND HONEY

Chebe powder is typically mixed with other ingredients, such as oils or water, to form a paste that is applied to the hair.  Honey possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping prevent scalp infections and other scalp issues that may hinder hair growth.

Instructions:

  • Mix 2 tablespoons of chebe powder with 2 tablespoons of honey.
  • Apply the mixture to the scalp and hair, focusing on areas prone to hair loss.
  • Gently massage for a few minutes to allow the mixture to penetrate the scalp.
  • Leave the hair treatment on for 30 minutes and then rinse thoroughly.

ALOE VERA

Aloe vera has been suggested to be beneficial in addressing hair loss, as per some anecdotal evidence. It is believed to help in various ways, including:

  • Soothing the scalp
  • Conditioning the hair
  • Reducing dandruff
  • Unblocking hair follicles

You can incorporate aloe vera into your hair care routine by applying pure aloe vera gel to your scalp a few times a week. Additionally, using shampoo and conditioner containing aloe vera may also be beneficial.

GREEN TEA

Starting your day with a cup of green tea isn’t just about a refreshing wake-up call; it also aids in calming stressed nerves and reducing body fat. Surprisingly, green tea serves as an excellent natural home remedy to combat excessive hair fall and stimulate natural hair growth. 

Instruction:

  • Steep 1-2 green tea bags in a cup of hot water, covering the lid.
  • Let the tea steep for 5 minutes, then allow the mixture to cool.
  • Pour the cooled mixture over your hair and scalp, gently massaging the roots.
  • Rinse off with water after an hour.

GARLIC AND COCONUT OIL

Coconut oil possesses moisturizing and nourishing properties, aiding in maintaining healthy hair and preventing breakage. Garlic? Combining coconut oil with garlic can create an excellent remedy for thin and prone-to-breakage hair.

Instruction:

  • Squeeze the juice from 2-3 garlic cloves.
  • Mix the garlic juice with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil.
  • Massage the mixture onto the scalp and hair, focusing on areas prone to hair loss.
  • Leave the hair treatment on for 30 minutes.
  • Wash your hair with regular shampoo.

EGG HAIR MASK 

Eggs are a superb remedy for persistent hair fall, packed with protein, sulfur, zinc, and phosphorus. They effectively strengthen hair strands, promote growth, and prevent split ends. Once you integrate this routine, your nose will acclimate, allowing you to revel in the pleasure of flaunting thick and luscious locks.

Instruction:

  • Mix 1 egg with a teaspoon of honey and olive oil.
  • Use a brush to evenly apply the paste from roots to tips.
  • Rinse after 25 minutes using a mild shampoo and cold water

COCONUT oil

A beloved remedy in every Indian household, coconut oil (nariyal ka tel) stands as an unparalleled solution for combating hair fall. The fatty acids in this oil fortify hair roots and stimulate abundant hair growth. 

Instruction:

  • Heat 2-3 teaspoons of coconut oil and apply it to your scalp.
  • Gently massage the scalp and leave it on overnight (or for 20 minutes during the day).
  • Rinse the next morning with a mild shampoo (or on the same day).

AMLA, LIME JUICE HAIR PACK 

Amla, also known as the Indian Gooseberry, stands as a potent Ayurvedic remedy for fortifying your hair and preventing premature graying. Enriched with Vitamin C, amla promotes unparalleled hair growth. 

Instruction:

  • Create a thick paste by mixing 1 teaspoon of amla powder with a few drops of lime juice.
  • Apply the paste to your scalp and leave it on for 40 minutes.
  • Rinse the paste off with a mild cleanser.

BHRINGRAJ OIL

Bhringraj oil is a traditional herbal oil from India used to promote hair growth. It is made from the leaves and stems of the Eclipta alba plant, also known as the neem plant. Bhringraj oil contains numerous antioxidants and nutrients beneficial for hair.

Instructions:

  • Clean the Bhringraj leaves and stems.
  • Place the leaves and stems in a pan and add coconut oil or olive oil.
  • Simmer the mixture on low heat for about 15 minutes.
  • Allow the mixture to cool, then strain to remove the residue.
  • Once the oil is completely cooled, transfer it into a glass bottle.

CAPSICUM OIL

Capsicum oil is a herbal oil made from chili peppers, containing capsaicin, a natural stimulant. Capsaicin is believed to promote hair growth by stimulating hair follicles and enhancing blood circulation to the scalp.

Instructions:

  • Heat coconut oil or olive oil in a pan over low heat.
  • Add chili powder and stir well.
  • Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes, then turn off the heat.
  • Allow the mixture to cool completely, then strain to remove the residue.
  • Pour the oil into a glass bottle and store in a cool, dry place.

BANANAS

Bananas are a fruit rich in vitamins and minerals beneficial for hair. Mash a banana in a bowl.

  • Add coconut oil or olive oil and honey, then mix well.
  • Apply the mixture to the hair, focusing on the scalp area.
  • Leave the hair mask on for about 30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
  • Use the banana hair mask regularly 2-3 times a week for the best results.

WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR about hair growth

While thinning hair and hair loss can be associated with genetics or aging, sometimes they hint at something deeper. A hidden health issue might be playing a role, or you might have a specific type of hair loss like alopecia areata or scarring alopecia that needs targeted treatment

If you’re experiencing sudden or excessive hair loss, patchy baldness, or significant changes in hair texture, it’s wise to consult a doctor. These could be signs of underlying medical conditions like hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, or autoimmune diseases. Additionally, if your hair loss is causing you significant distress or affecting your daily life, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. A dermatologist or trichologist (hair specialist) can diagnose the cause, recommend appropriate treatment options, and help you regain confidence in your hair.

CONCLUSION

In this article, we have provided you with the causes of hair loss as well as self-care methods for promoting hair growth at home using readily available ingredients. You can follow our provided guidelines, and while the effects may not be as immediate as some commercial products, they are equally effective. We hope that after reading our article, you will discover effective methods that do not require significant expenses for yourself!