vitamin e and c oil

TOMATO, CUCUMBER AND BASIL SALAD

Pick up some fresh produce at the Farmer’s Market, and you’ll understand what I mean! A ripe, juicy summer tomato is just as delightful as an apple. Toss it into a salad with crisp cucumbers, onions, and a light herb dressing, and you’ve got a refreshing summer side dish—what we call Tomato, Cucumber, and Basil Salad.

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 large hothouse cucumber
  • 6 medium Campari tomatoes, quartered
  • ½ small sweet onion, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium garlic clove, minced
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Peel the cucumber, slice it in half lengthwise, and use a spoon to remove the seeds. Slice the cucumber and place it in a bowl. Add the tomatoes, onion, and basil.
  • In a separate small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and black pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
  • Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

NUTRITION (PER SERVING)

  • Calories: 89 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Sodium: 15mg
  • Potassium: 582mg
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Vitamin A: 1666 IU
  • Vitamin C: 30mg
  • Calcium: 39mg
  • Iron: 1mg

Note: Nutrition information is an estimate and should be used as a guideline.

CARROT AND COCONUT OIL FACE MASK

Have you ever considered blending carrots, adding a touch of coconut oil, and applying it as a face mask? If not, keep reading to discover how to create a nourishing carrot and coconut oil mask!

Carrots and coconut oil aren’t just great for eating—they’re packed with skin-loving nutrients that can work wonders on your complexion. Both of these natural ingredients are rich in vitamins and minerals, making them perfect for a DIY beauty treatment.

I’ll admit, the idea for this mask didn’t come from me originally. A few years ago, I had a conversation with one of my aunts, and she shared that she used steamed carrots mixed with coconut oil as a homemade facial mask. Curious, I tried it myself—and absolutely loved it! Since carrots and coconut oil are staples in my kitchen, it was super convenient to add this mask to my regular skincare routine.

Ingredients: 

How to make Carrot and Coconut Oil Face Mask

  • Chop the Carrot: Roughly chop the carrot into about 5 pieces.
  • Steam the Carrot: Bring about an inch of water to a boil in a saucepan. Add the chopped carrots, reduce the heat to low, cover, and steam for 8-10 minutes until soft.
  • Blend the Mixture: Drain the water and transfer the carrots to a food processor or blender. Add coconut oil and blend until smooth, creating a puree.
  • Apply the Mask: Gently apply the carrot and coconut oil mixture to your clean face, avoiding the eyes and mouth. Let the mask sit for 15-20 minutes.
  • Entertainment Break: While you wait, why not channel your inner character from The Simpsons? It’ll make the time pass more enjoyably. 🍩
  • Rinse Off: Wash your face with warm water, using a washcloth to gently remove any remaining bits.
  • Moisturize: If needed, apply a little coconut or olive oil for extra hydration.

    TIPS:

    • Sensitive Skin: If you have sensitive skin, do a patch test on a small area first to make sure you’re not allergic to any ingredients.
    • Storage: If you have leftovers, you can store the mixture in the fridge for a couple of days, but it’s best to use it fresh for maximum benefits.

    CONCLUSION

    In conclusion, the Carrot and Coconut Oil Face Mask is an easy and natural way to nourish and hydrate your skin. The combination of carrots, rich in beta-carotene and antioxidants, and coconut oil, known for its moisturizing properties, can help improve skin texture, promote a healthy glow, and provide deep hydration. This DIY mask is simple to make, using ingredients you may already have at home, and offers a gentle, affordable skincare treatment.

    For the best results, remember to follow up with your favorite moisturizer after rinsing off the mask to lock in all the nourishment. Whether you’re looking for a quick skin boost or a relaxing self-care session, this face mask is a great addition to your beauty routine!