How to Use Olive Oil to Remove Makeup?

Removing off the makeup might still be one of the most challenging tasks you face every day, especially if you’ve already nodded off and can hardly hold your eyes open.

Picking the right makeup cleanser is even more difficult, particularly if you have delicate skin. And, if you run out of makeup cleanser, don’t panic because we’re about to teach you a home item that can easily replace regular makeup remover.

You can use olive oil to remove makeup. It also offers a variety of advantages for your eyes and skin. It may appear strange to wash your skin with oil, given that oil is usually the thing you are working to remove off your face.

But olive oil can be helpful in this process. Because of its greasy qualities, this natural oil has an immediate impact when used for a makeup remover, allowing you to eliminate the most resistant makeup, such as mascara and eyeliner.

But what makes olive oil unique is that it is not just an excellent makeup cleanser, but it is a fantastic moisturizer for the skin around the eyes. Yes, and this can make your entire skin glow.

Is olive oil beneficial to the skin?

Despite its alarming pore-clogging tendency, olive oil has several advantages:

It’s typically abundant with squalene, an oil that resembles your skin’s normal sebum, this it’ll make your skin exceptionally smooth and silky, and it’s additionally high in antioxidants, which function intensely to protect your skin from environmental harm.

Below are the different advantages of using olive oil. Read this post to find out incredible facts about the use of olive oil and methods to remove your makeup successfully.

What is the process of oil cleansing?

“Like dissolves like,” as we all know from chemistry class. As a result, substances will absorb other elements with identical chemical structures.

Given that oils and heavy lubricants are frequently used in cosmetics, it stands to reason why olive oil can remove greasy makeup.

Beauty chemists who manufacture oil-based makeup cleansers and wipes employ the principle of identical components dissolving in one another.

Many liquid cosmetic removers contain pure oil, while lotions blend with liquid, thickening agents, and emulsifiers.

Nevertheless, specific cosmetic cleansers aren’t particularly good at removing makeup due to the water-based elements.

They are therefore designed to eliminate exterior dirt and grease. As a result, the gentler a cleaner is, the less capable it is of removing heavy oils and grease.

Olive Oil’s Skin Advantages

Olive oil has many skin advantages, from hydrating dry spots to dissolving stubborn foundations. Below are a few advantages of olive oil –

  • Keeps moisture from drying up:

The significant advantage of olive oil is that it moisturizes the skin by decreasing moisture loss. This moisturization boosts the skin’s moisture contents, which improves its health and beauty.

  • Defends against pollution problems:

The antioxidant qualities of olive oil preserve skin cells from environmental stress and inflammation.

This implies that you’ll be protected against fine lines and wrinkles as well as discomfort or redness.

  • Defends against premature aging:

Olive oil has a high concentration of vitamins A, D, K, & E and squalene. These can help reduce oxidative strain on the skin (which can result in premature skin aging).

  • Makeup lifter:

Olive oil is excellent for dissolving waxy things such as water-resistant eyeliner and mascara. It hydrates the sensitive skin around the eyes and strengthens eyelashes in the same manner as conditioners do for hair. It also contains antioxidants and moisturizing squalene.

How do you clean makeup with olive oil?

You’ll require olive oil, absorbent tissues, and cotton wipes to eliminate makeup utilizing olive oil. There are two ways to dissolve makeup with olive oil.

You may apply the oil to a cotton ball and wipe the makeup with it, or you could take olive oil in your hand and work it into your skin to dissolve the makeup.

After using either procedure, you must use an absorbent tissue to remove the remaining oil from your face and afterward wash it.

Remember: Before using olive oil on your skin, perform a patch test.

Is olive oil eye makeup remover?

Olive oil is an excellent product for removing resistant makeup, like mascara or sparkly eyeshadow. Apply a few droplets of olive oil into a cotton ball and apply the dab on the eye to wipe makeup.

Lightly massage it on the eyes to dissolve thick makeup. When you sense your makeup has fully dissolved, rub the cotton pad in circular movements over the eye.

The mascara from the eyes would be transferred to the cotton pad using circular movements. Do this process for both the eyes.

If there are any mascara leftovers on the eyelashes, take a clean cotton ball, dab a little oil on it, and lightly massage it until these chunks of mascara dissolve and fall off the eyelids.

Should you use Extra virgin olive oil makeup remover?

Most cosmetics, including moisturizers, concealer, eyeliner, eyeshadow, and mascara, are composed of thick waxes and oils.

Extra virgin olive oil will quickly remove the base, eye shadow, eyeliner, lipstick, and other cosmetics since it has an identical chemical composition to the lubricants and oils used in cosmetics. In reality, the majority of commercial makeup cleaners are oil-based.

Because extra virgin olive oil is an organic item, it is free of the colors, aromas, emulsifying agents, thickening agents, and other ingredients found in industrial makeup removers.

It is also non-comedogenic, which ensures it will not clog skin pores. Olive oil is very affordable; odds are you probably have it in your home, but if not, you could buy up a massive quantity at the supermarket that would last a long time.

Just dab a tiny quantity of extra virgin oil with your fingers and lightly massage this over your face and eyes to eliminate makeup.

After removing your makeup, your face may retain a tiny greasy behind. To remove it, wash it using lukewarm water, then dry it with a light, clean cloth.

Here are various applications for olive oil on the skin.

Other than removing makeup, olive oil has different advantages as well. We have come up with the most accessible and most valuable benefits of extra virgin olive oil –

  • Hand lotion

When you are cooking, put a few oil droplets in your palms. You will not have to stress about putting bad-tasting moisturizer in your meals, and you shouldn’t have to keep a container of moisturizer in your kitchen.

  • Babies’ moisturizer

You may apply olive oil to the baby’s skin. Olive oil is sometimes used as baby oil and can assist with dryness, eczema, or cradle cap.

You don’t have to fear your kid consuming olive oil as they continually put their fingers into their mouths. It’s beneficial to them!

Olive oil has also been used to clean the bottoms of newborns. If your infant is sensitive to diaper rashes, consider using a towel and a combination containing olive oil & water rather than diaper wipes.

  • Remedy for hair

Nourish your scalp with olive oil to prevent breakage and frizz. Fill a glass bottle halfway with ½ cup olive oil. Pour a bowl halfway with boiling water and submerge the container in it for 5 minutes. Check the oil’s heat.

It ought to be warm but not heated. Secure your hair with plastic paper or a plastic bath cover after applying the oil. Then drape a cloth or a hair wrap over yourself. Set aside for 20-45 minutes. Rinse and dry your hair to uncover shiny locks!

Warnings and Recommendations

The elements recommended above are not meant for every skin type. These components are suitable for people with normal skin.

When dry patches, wipe your makeup using a 1:3 proportion of castor oil with extra virgin olive oil.

On the face, olive oil can create a greasy layer. If you have oily skin and lids, you might notice that the use of olive oil daily can make your skin sticky and might result in additional breakouts.

Olive oil cosmetic remover isn’t suitable for all types of makeup. Applying olive oil to eliminate waterproof face makeup might be more difficult. In that instance, excessive straining might cause fine lines and wrinkles, particularly around the eyes.

Conclusion

Finally, we recommend a patch test on your skin before applying it to your skin. If you face any issues or skin irritation, kindly do not continue using olive oil to remove makeup. Otherwise, if you have normal skin and benefit from olive oil, use them.

Instead of using expensive makeup remover from the market, reap the benefits of olive oil to remove mascara, eye makeup, foundation, and everything else.

This will benefit your skin in the long term. As mentioned above, the use of olive oil will keep the glow on your face. As you can use olive oil eye makeup remover, it can help you with the skin around the eyes too. Overall the benefits are enormous.

10 Celebrities Reveal Their Surprising Secrets to Looking Younger

Glamour industry demands that you look ageless. But, these celebrities are no more 18. So, what is that these stars ingest that everyone gets influenced by their radiant complexion.

You don’t have to sneak their personal spa for that. Instead, read on this article to educate yourself with the #1 secret beauty tips revealed by these glamour ladies themselves.

10 Stars Reveal Their #1 Secret for Flawless Skin

#1 Halle Berry

Apart from using products from Kinara Spa, this American actress cleanses and moisturizes her skin regularly in the morning and before going to bed.

When needed she also lays off from the chemical incorporated makeup to give her skin a break.

#2 Jessica Hart

With changing weather, she recommends to change beauty products depending on your skin type.

She personally use Dr. Hauschka’s Rose Day Cream Light in summer and La Mer Crème de la Mer in winter.

#3 Jennifer Aniston

Even at the age of 49, she continues look younger. In a talk show its revealed that she uses intense chemical peels and Mila Moursi Rejuvenating Serum.

Read this before trying chemical peels.

#4 Reese Witherspoon

Apart from eating healthy and regularly hydrating from the inside by drinking enough water, this actress uses Chanel Hydramax Active Moisture Cream.

#5 Gisele Bundchen

In an interview with Elle she told that once when she experienced pimple her makeup artist recommended Nelsons Acne Gel when she uses till date. Apart from that Lancome’s pink foaming cleanser and Victoria’s Secret Total remover for eyes.

#6 Christie Brinkley

This American model recommends exfoliating your skin regularly to make it fresh and smooth. You can opt any cleanser that is gentle available at the store.

#7 Lea Michele

This American actress say she experienced best result by drinking enough water and having required sleep.

Simple, isn’t it?

#8 Olivia Culpo

She says after meeting her beautician she began to understand how the skin gets natural glow. How frequently you cleanse your skin and what you topically apply on it directly impact on your appearance.

She recommends ingesting more greens to beat acne and other skin disorders.

#9 Cate Blanchett

Facial massage can reduce stress and can help you to obtain better glow.

#10 Leona Lewis

She says that her main beauty ingredients are from her kitchen room. So, opt for natural home remedies instead of chemical filled creams.

How to Get Rid of Pimples and Acne Overnight Using These 25 Quick Remedies

Pimples or acne are more than frustrating things tohandle in our lives. As you get older, they become more difficult to treatbecause many acne fighting products can be overly drying and irritating on ourskin.

Don’t worry and don’t go down blaming your skin for your acne problems. As it is not the problem of your skin and using harsh chemicals and skin products will result in making the problem worse.

So, have a little patience to deal with acne and pimples. This article will help you with 25 best remedies that work as a magic on your skin and has a huge affect on regular basis.

Use all the below remedies on regular basis to get smooth, clear and glowing skin as a result. 

25Home Remedies For Acne And Pimples:

1. Don’t Forget To Wash Your Pillowcase Regularly:

This is the most effective remedy that works perfect to reduce acne and pimples on your skin.

Washing your pillow case prevents the excess oil and other bacteria that sit on your face throughout the night by worsening your acne. So, don’t forget to wash your pillowcase at least twice in a week to see huge difference on your skin.

2. Use Lemon Juice For Treating Pimples And Acne:

Lemon juice is another effective remedy to treat pimples and acne. The citric acid present in lemon juice exfoliates the skin and removes all dead skin cells and vitamin C helps in toning your skin.

It astringent properties also help you to reduce the redness caused by acne and prevents them completely.

What You Need To Do:

  • All you need to do is wash your face with cool water and apply little amount of lemon juice directly on the pimple before stepping out in the sun every time.

3. Use Echinacea To Treat Acne:

This is an amazing remedy that works absolutely perfect in preventing acne and also helps to fight against the infections that causes flu and cold.

The anti inflammatory and anti bacterial properties in Echinacea helps fight against acne and give you smooth and soft skin.

What You Need To Do:

  • Use Echinacea tea as your regular face wash for at least twice in a day instead of those expensive chemical filled face washes.

4. Try An Oatmeal Mask:

Oatmeal is loaded with anti inflammatory and anti bacterial properties that helps to prevent acne and reduces redness that come along with acne.

What You Need To Do:

  • Take little amount of cooked oatmeal and apply it as a mask on your face and wash it off with water after few minutes.
  • It might not completely prevent acne, but it will help to reduce the pain and irritation with acne.

5. Try Aspirin For Your Acne:

We all thought that aspirin will only help to reduce headache and other inflammation on our skin. But the fact is, it is also effective in reducing acne and pimples due to the presence of salicylic acid.

What You Need To Do:

  • Take a pill of aspirin and dissolve it in a glass of water. Don’t drink this water, dab the mixture directly on your pimples and blemishes.

6. Aloe Vera To Cure Acne And Swelling:

The anti inflammatory and anti bacterial properties in aloe vera make it effective in treating acne, redness and swelling caused by pimples.

What You Need To Do:

  • Wash your face with cool water follow with pat dry.
  • Now apply little amount of aloe vera gel directly on the pimple and leave it for about 5-10 minutes and then wash it off.

7. Baking Soda To Control Acne:

Baking soda is one of the best ingredients to soften your skin and help to look great while fighting against acne.

What You Need To Do:

  • Mix one table spoon of baking soda with little amount of water to make a paste. Apply this paste on your face and wash it off after 25 minutes with warm water.

8. Mixture Of Avocado And Honey For Acne:

Due to its high content of good fat and healthy nutrients aloe vera works perfect on sensitive skin. Especially, when it is mixed with little amount of honey.

What You Need To Do:

  • Mix one table spoon of honey with one table spoon of avocado paste and apply it on your face.
  • Leave it on for 15 minutes and then wash it off with warm water and pat dry.

9. Use Orange To Get Rid Of Acne:

Oranges are rich in vitamins C that help to nourish and regrow your skin and the citric acid acts as an exfoliant and works as an powerful astringent.

What You Need To Do:

  • Take two oranges peel and blend them to make a fine paste by adding little amount of water.
  • Apply this paste on your acne and allow it to sit around 25 minutes. Then rinse it off with water and pat dry.

10. Try Yogurt And Honey For Sensitive Skin:

Yogurt will help to reduce inflammation and get rid of redness caused by acne due to its anti inflammatory properties.

What You Need To Do:

  • Mix one table spoon of yogurt and honey and apply this mixture as a layer on your skin.
  • Leave the mask for 15 minutes and wash it off with cool water and pat dry.

11. Apple Cider Vinegar:

Due to its astringent properties apple cider vinegar get rid of oil that nourishes bacteria on your skin and makes your acne worse.

What You Need To Do:

  • Mix one table spoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and apply this mixture on your acne using a cotton ball.
  • You can do this 3-4 times in a day to reduce or prevent acne completely.

12. Use Papaya For Pimples:

Papaya is not only a tasty fruit it also helps us in maintaining healthy and glowing skin due to its powerful component called papain.

What You Need To Do:

  • Take table spoon of papaya paste and apply it on the affected area and allow it to sit for 20 minutes and then wash it off with cool water.

13. Banana Peel To Get Rid Of Pimples:

Not only banana, even banana peel is loaded with many nutrients that protect your skin. It also contains anti inflammatory properties that helps to reduce inflammation and swelling caused by pimples and acne.

What You Need To Do:

  • Take banana peel and rub it in circular motions around the affected area for few minutes.

14. Use Strawberries And Honey:

Strawberries also contain salicylic acid which is an excellent exfoliant and astringent to fight against bacteria that cause acne and help your skin grow and look healthier.

What You Need To Do:

  • Mix one table spoon of mashed strawberry paste with one table spoon of honey and apply it on pimples.
  • Leave this paste for at least 25 minutes and then use warm water to rinse your face and pat dry.

15. Potatoes To Punish Pimples:

Potatoes are rich in minerals like phosphorous, sulphur, chloride, potassium that helps to get rid of blemishes and redness caused by pimples and acne.

What You Need To Do:

  • Wash your face with cool water and pat dry, now apply potato juice using a cotton ball on your skin and leave it for 15-20 minutes.
  • Use warm water to rinse your face and pat dry follow by applying moisturizer.

16. Try Sugar Scrub To Get Rid Of Pimples:

Sugar scrubs are excellent exfoliators which are also help to remove dead skin cells and clear up your skin.

What You Need To Do:

  • Mix one table spoon of sugar with little amount of coconut oil and store it in air tighten jar.
  • Use this scrub before taking shower on the affected area and wash it off completely using cool water after few minutes.

17. Garlic To Defeat Your Acne:

Garlic is anti bacterial and effective in reducing acne and pimples in an ease way.

What You Need To Do:

  • Mash 3 cloves of garlic and mix them in glass of water and leave it for 5 minutes. Now, take a cotton swab and apply the mixture on the affected areas.

18. Steam Away Your Acne:

Steam is the best way to clear up all the pimples and  to push out excess oil and dirt out from the skin.

What You Need To Do:

  • Take one bowl of hot water and cover your head using a towel, so that it forms a tent that keeps the steam inside.
  • Inhale and exhale for few minutes and continue it for other 15 minutes.

19. Green Tea For Acne And Pimples:

Green tea not only beneficial for those who want to maintain healthy weight, it is also for the people experiencing pimples and acne.

The anti oxidant properties reduces acne and fights against bacteria when applied directly on your skin.

20. Fight Acne With Egg White:

Egg whites are great in fighting against acne and prevent the scars caused by them. And the proteins, vitamins and nutrients present in egg white add glow to your skin by reducing the excess oil that worsens the acne.

What You Need To Do:

  • Whisk one egg white and apply it on your face as a mask and leave it until it is dried completely.
  • Rinse your face with warm water and pat dry.

21. Chamomile Tea For Acne:

Chamomile contains excellent anti inflammatory properties which are effective in reducing acne and pimple in an effective way.

What You Need To Do:

  • You can use chamomile tea bags to reduce acne by placing it on the affected area or else apply chamomile tea using cotton swab on the affected area and leave it for few minutes.

22. Use Mint To Clear Up Your Skin:

Mint contains anti inflammatory agent called menthol which is effective in reducing acne and swelling caused by it.

What You Need To Do:

  • Apply mint juice on the affected area and leave it for about 10 minutes.

23. Cinnamon:

Cinnamon is not only a powerful spice that adds flavor to your dishes, it is also powerful in treating skin issues like acne and pimples due to its anti inflammatory and anti bacterial properties.

What You Need To Do:

  • Mix one table spoon of honey with one teaspoon of honey and apply it on the affected area.
  • Let it remain for 15 minutes and wash it off with warm water and pat dry.

24. Use Treat Tree Oil To Treat Acne:

Tea tree essential oil is one of the effective ingredients to treat acne. It unblocks the pores of your skin and reduces bacterial that worsens acne.

What You Need To Do:

  • Mix one part of tea tree oil with 9 parts of water and use this mixture to apply on your acne.

25. Leave It Alone:

Don’t touch your acne or pimples again and again that worsens the condition within short time.

Try to avoid messing with your pimples, even it irritates you. Give some time to heal your skin and be patient until you get results.

7 Tulsi Face Pack Recipes to Treat Acne, Eczema and Psoriasis

tulsi

Apart from treating health ailments and purifying, you can use tulsi face pack for flawless skin.

Because of its numerous benefits, tulsi or Holy Basil is worshiped by Hindus in India. Most of them have at least one tulsi plant in their homes. Healing properties in this aromatic herb are renowned in Ayurvedic medicine. Ailments like cold, flu, inflammation, fever, malaria, cough and heart problem can be relieved by this scared herb.

Apart from health benefits, you can use tulsi for skin whitening. Its aromatic smell relieves you from stress and other assorted nutrients lighten dark spots, fade scars, eliminate acne and treat common skin disorders.

Benefits of Tulsi Face Pack for Skin

Like natural ingredients, tulsi has abundant essential vitamins and minerals that can enhance healthy functioning of the skin. Have a glance at below points; they’ll blow your mind.

  • Impurities and dead skin cells piled over the face can be removed by cleansing ability of tulsi and besan combined.
  • Antioxidant agents kill free radicals that damage cell membrane and help to obtain youthful skin.
  • Exceptional properties in tulsi face pack can tighten skin pores and stimulate fast healing.
  • Anti-inflammatory activity of this herb can treat acne and reduce inflammation caused due to minor injuries.
  • Anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral properties residing in tulsi can thwart infectious bacteria from the skin.
  • Antiseptic property in tulsi restrains infection on wounds, acne, injuries and flare-ups.
  • Massaging with tulsi mask will relieve from itching and irritation.

It restrains dark spots, premature aging wrinkles, scars and other chronic skin ailments.

Also read: Sandalwood face mask for skin whitening

Tulsi Face Pack Recipes

To absorb those enticing benefits of tulsi for your skin, you need few minutes and a simple recipe.

Note: Patch test before using tulsi on your face.

To make this natural ingredient more effective, beauty experts add other home available ingredients to it.

Homemade Curd and Tulsi for Skin Whitening

This simple homemade face pack will remove dead cells and impurities, which can form dark patches on the face.

  • Pluck fresh tulsi leaves and dry them in shade for about 3-4 days.
  • Grind them to form fine powder and store in a glass container.
  • Mix 1 tablespoon of this tulsi powder to ½ tablespoon of curd.
  • Wash your face or cleanse it and pat dry using soft cloth.
  • Apply the tulsi curd face pack on the skin and leave to dry naturally.

Tulsi and Honey Face Pack

Benefits of honey are documented in religious and ancient books. Anti-inflammatory and humectant property in raw honey can treat acne, hydrate skin and cleanse it.

  • Grind required amount of fresh tulsi leaves with enough water.
  • Collect the juice in a container by squeezing the paste.
  • Add besan and honey to the collected juice.
  • Using clean fingers spread the mask over the face.

Multani Mitti and Tulsi Face Pack

Multani mitti has great contribution in removing impurities. Regular use of this face mask will fade scars and helps to obtain radiant skin.

  • Grind dried tulsi leaves and mix 1 tablespoon of multani mitti to it.
  • Optionally add 1 tablespoon of sandalwood powder.
  • To make thick paste, add 4-5 drops of rose water, olive oil and water if required.
  • Cleanse your face with water or natural cleanser.
  • Pat dry and apply the mask evenly using your clean fingers.
  • After 15-20 minutes, rinse the face pack with water.

If you’ve dry skin, apply natural moisturizer like rose water after this face pack application.

Tulsi and Neem Face Pack

Neem leaves are renowned for its antiseptic and antiviral activity. You can’t believe what these two natural ingredients can do for your skin. Chronic ailments and infectious germs can be restrained by this simple face mask.

However, I recommend using this mask once in a while.

  • Wash neem leaves and tulsi leaves.
  • Grind them with enough water to make thick paste like consistency.
  • Optionally, add 1-2 cloves to the mixture before grinding.
  • Wash your face and apply the mask evenly.
  • Rinse it off after 15 minutes.

Tulsi and Besan Face Pack

Gram flour or besan is prominent for removing impurities. Blend these ingredients and you’ll make your skin refreshing.

  • Take 30-40 fresh tulsi leaves and grind them with required amount of gram flour.
  • Add few drops of raw honey to the mixture.
  • Wash your face with water and apply this face mask evenly.
  • After 15 minutes, when the mask is completely dried rinse it off with water.

Sandalwood and Tulsi Face Pack

Aromatic smell and cleansing properties in sandalwood result in skin whitening. Regular usage of this face mask will make your silky soft and improves skin tone.

  • Dry tulsi leaves and grind to form fine powder.
  • Add required amount of sandalwood powder to it and drop olive oil to form thick paste.
  • Alternatively, you can replace olive oil with rose water.
  • Apply the mask on prewashed face and rinse it off after 15-20 minutes.

Tulsi for Acne

Inflammation and excess sebum production are mere causes of acne blemishes. This doesn’t mean that dry skin people will not have acne.

Anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties residing in tulsi can effectively treat acne lesions.

  • Grind dried tulsi leaves into fine powder.
  • Add rose water and sandalwood powder to it.
  • Mix thoroughly and apply it over acne affected skin.
  • Regular usage will do wonders.

And the list goes on there are many ingredients that you can add with tulsi face pack. But, patch test before using them on the skin.

tulsi face pack

Image source

15 Best Collagen Building Foods for Your Skin

When we talk about our look, personality and beauty, skin becomes one of the most critical parts of the body. It doesn’t only provide much-needed protection from harmful elements; it also gives our body a unique and appealing look. Man’s entire beauty is depended on the skin.

Just like the skin is essential for the shape and structure of our body, skin itself is depended on collagen for its proper built and structure. Stay tuned to know the best collagen building foods to improve your skin.

As collagen is essential to maintain our skin’s structure, it becomes imperative to maintain collagen levels in our body. Lack of collagen can cause plenty of damage to the skin and skin may become unhealthy, dull and sometimes dead as well. Most of the skin related problems are directly linked to the lack of collagen in our body.

Vitamin-C plays a significant role in our body, and it also plays a vital role in the formation of collagen. Lack of vitamin-C is undoubtedly going to affect the collagen formation, and hence when we talk about treating skin related problems, our primary target is to consume food products which are full of vitamin-C.

In this article, we are going to talk about collagen foods for skin. We are going to discuss further collagen and some excellent collagen boosting foods, their benefits as well as better and beneficial ways to eat them.

collagen building foods

What is Collagen and Its Functions?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body found in the muscles, skin, tendons, and bones. It is a very important substance in our body known for holding together the overall structure of our body.

There are two types of collagen- endogenous and exogenous. Endogenous is synthesized by the body itself whereas synthetic collagen is known as exogenous. Breakdown or depletion of collagen can cause plenty of different health related issues.

We have already discussed a little about collagen and its functions. Let’s have a brief discussion to understand more about collagen and why it is very important for our body. This hard, insoluble, and fibrous protein is responsible for making up one third of the protein. In addition to building new cells, it is also capable of restoring dead cells in the skin. Collagen is a network of macromolecules responsible for determining physical properties of our body tissue.

15 Best Collagen Building Foods for Skin:

As we have learnt, breakdown or depletion of collagen can cause a lot of different health related problems, building collagen is very important. Endogenous collagen is synthesized by the body itself. So we are going to talk about some exogenous collagen building foods for skin.

Plan your diet from below mentioned foods that build collagen for skin.

#1 Fish

Almost all the varieties of fish are very good to build collagen, fishes like tuna and salmon are excellent to do so thanks to the presence of omega-3 fatty acid. Fatty membrane present around the skin is known for providing protection. Omega-3 fatty acid is very good to make the skin cells stronger.

How to eat:

There are plethora of different fish recipes available. You can eat fish in different ways like preparing fish curry, or simply fry your favorite fish. You can use any method of eating fish, but using olive oil is going to be very healthy.

#2 Dark Green Vegetables

Dark green vegetables like spinach are rich in vitamin-C which is essential for collagen boosting. Vitamin-C is also known for its antioxidant properties that is responsible for stabilizing messenger enzymes that break collagen down. Additionally, vitamin-C is very good to provide protection against free radicals to prevent weakness of collagen.

How to eat:

You can prepare different dishes with different dark green vegetables. But if you are suffering from chronic lack of collagen, eating boiled spinach leaves is going to be very effective.

#3 Berries

Berries are one among the top collagen foods for skin. Especially blackberries and raspberries are very good at fighting with free radicals and hence increasing the levels as well as production of collagen.

How to eat:

Simply wash the berries properly and enjoy.

#4 White Tea

White tea is believed to provide protection to the structural properties of the skin especially collagen. It is also very good at preventing enzyme activities which is responsible for breaking down of collagen.

How to Use White Tea:

  • Make sure you are purchasing right type of white tea.
  • Boil 1½ cup of water (adjust the amount of water according to your requirement)
  • Keep water aside for 5 minutes.
  • Add two tbsp. white tea per cup.
  • Add sugar or honey according to taste.
  • Steep well and enjoy.

#5 Egg White

Egg White is not only high in protein, it also contains large amount of lysine, proline as well as collagen. Adding egg white in your diet can help you to improve collagen production in your body.

How to use:

  • You can use egg white in different ways.
  • Simply remove the egg yolk and consume egg white with a pinch of salt, or fry it in little oil or boil a couple of eggs, remove egg yolk and enjoy.

#6 Oysters

Oysters are great sources of zinc- much needed for collagen building-process. Oysters also provide low-calorie option and is healthy in a handful of ways.

How to take oysters:

  • Although there are different methods of using oysters, you can take it after grilling.
  • Grill the oysters until the shell is open.
  • Remove the shell and enjoy with a piece of mushroom.
  • You can even add a little amount of peanut oil for a spicy taste.

#7 Garlic

Garlic is an excellent source of sulfur- which is very important for collagen production. In addition to sulfur, garlic is also good at providing lipoic acid and taurine. Both of them are helpful to rebuild the damaged collagen fibers.

How to eat:

Garlic is one of the most common ingredients in most of the foods. For having great effects of it, you can take 3-4 pieces of raw garlic with water.

#8 Citrus Fruits

Almost all the citrus fruits like limes, oranges, lemons, grapefruits etc. are very good sources of vitamin-C and are capable of helping amino acids, lysine and proline to convert into collagen. These fruits are also helpful to neutralize free radicals.

How to eat:

No need to use any particular way to eat these fruits. You can take them as you want.

#9 Soy

Soy is one of the best foods that build collagen and elastin. Soy contains genistein (hormones containing antioxidants), which is very effective to increase collagen production.

How to eat:

You can take soy through soybeans or use soy milk directly.

#10 Carrots

Carrot is another very healthy vegetable known for improving overall health including collagen production. Carrot is rich in vitamin A which is capable of restoring and regenerating damaged collagen.

How to eat:

Simply wash carrot properly and eat. You can use carrot as an ingredient in your delicious mix veg recipe.

#11 Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potato is another excellent source of both vitamin A and vitamin C. It doesn’t only restores the damaged collagen, it is very good to get rid of free radicals as well.

How to eat:

  • Taking sweet potatoes with milk is one of the best options.
  • If you don’t want to use milk, you can make it a little spicy and tangy by mashing it and adding salt, black pepper and red chili powder.

#12 Tomatoes

Tomato contains lycopene antioxidant in large quantity. Lycopene is very good at providing protection from sun as well as at increasing collagen levels in the body.

How to eat:

Using tomatoes in different dishes or eating raw tomatoes, both options are equally effective.

#13 Avocados

Avocado is another excellent food that build collagen. Avocado is also known for its great antioxidant benefits. It is a great source of vitamin E which is good to reduce the breakdown of collagen.

How to use avocado:

Preparing food with avocado oil is a very good option to improve collagen production. You can eat avocado directly as well.

#14 Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids that are responsible for contributing to antiaging by building healthy skin cells. Using chia seeds can also improve overall skin health by repairing damaged collagen.

How to take chia seeds:

Dried chia seeds can be added in different juices, smoothies as well as in milk.

#15 Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds are great source of zinc which is very good at improving collagen production. Zinc is also very effective to slow down the collagen breakdown.

How to use:

  • Take a handful of pumpkin seeds and boil properly.
  • Soak well to get rid of water and keep aside.
  • Toss the drained seeds in a little water.
  • Enjoy crispy and healthy pumpkin seeds.

Tips to Improve Collagen Production in Skin

Apart from ingesting foods that build collagen in your skin, you must change your lifestyle to improve skin texture.

  • Do facial message on regular basis using gentle and smooth products.
  • Use collagen creams containing collagen amino acids.
  • Eat green leafy vegetables and citrus fruits.
  • Quit smoking as soon as possible.
  • Reduce sugar intake as much as you can.
  • Keep your body hydrated by drinking enough water and other fluids.

How to Use Fenugreek for Face, Acne & Skin Whitening – Face Mask Recipes

fenugreek-for-skin whitening

Fenugreek (methi) seeds are extensively used in treating health ailments and to fix hair fall. Recent researchers state exceptional benefits of fenugreek for skin whitening, acne and to tighten skin.

Apart from reducing cholesterol, preventing diabetes and increasing breast milk, fenugreek seeds and leaves are extensively used in Indian households. Especially North Indians use methi in making of dals, parathas, curries and other dishes.

Exceptional medical properties packed in fenugreek makes it an effective remedy for all skin disorders. High amounts of proteins and vitamins in this herb fights infection causing bacteria and rebuild your dry skin. Below listed are uses of methi for skin.

Stay with me to know uses of methi seeds, before jumping to fenugreek (methi) face mask recipe list.

Is Fenugreek Good for Skin?

Fenugreek seeds are packed with exceptional nutrients that are essential for your sensitive skin.

  • Cleansing ability of fenugreek seeds can remove dead cells, pollutants and lighten your skin.
  • Moisturizing and healing properties of fenugreek seeds can tone your skin and make it supple.
  • Skin whitening abilities exhibited by vitamin C residing in methi seeds can make your skin bright.
  • Strengthen Your Skin& Hair: Thiamine, also known as vitamin B1 is responsible for generating energy from food. With this vitamin you can maintain healthy skin, hair and nails.
  • Treats Chronic Skin Ailments: Vitamin A housed in fenugreek and incorporated in cosmetic products can treat major skin disorders like acne, eczema, psoriasis and blackheads.
  • Exfoliates your skin: Apart from using chemical peels you can use fenugreek seeds to exfoliate your skin.
  • Fasten the Healing Process: Its healing agents treat wounds, sun burns and other minor injuries.
  • Reduce Wrinkles: Antioxidant properties of vitamin C in methi can help you from UV rays and prevent aging wrinkles.
  • Reduce Stretch Marks and Acne Scars: Fenugreek is rich source of vitamin K, various skin care creams and doctors use vitamin K as it helps in blood clotting. Assorted properties in vitamin K helps to treat stretch marks, spider veins, fade scars and reduce dark circles.
  • Other minerals like calcium, magnesium, zinc, selenium and iron residing in fenugreek seeds and leaves helps to treat minor to moderate skin problems.

The brief nutritional benefits of fenugreek conclude that it can topically and internally make the skin free from bacteria and harmful virus.

8 Benefits of Fenugreek Seeds for Face, Acne and Skin Tightening

Benefits that natural ingredients bring to you can’t be listed in numbers, as they’re numerous. Here are notable uses of methi for skin. (I placed number just to attract your eye balls ;))

Below listed are fenugreek (methi) face mask recipes.

#1. Fenugreek for Skin Whitening

Let me clear you that using these home remedies you can improve skin complexion to some extent. Like if your skin is piled with dead cells, dark spots, impurities and scars.

It can’t magically turn a brown or black skin to fair, like they show in cosmetic ads.

However, don’t be upset. Exfoliating, hydrating and healing properties exhibited by this home available ingredient may bring a natural glow on your face.

How to Use:

  • Prepare fenugreek seed powder by grind it.
  • You can store the powder in air tight container for future use.
  • Mix milk with this powder in required quantity and apply it over the face evenly.
  • Allow it to dry naturally and then rinse it off with water.

#2. Fenugreek for Skin Tightening

Accumulated impurities give your skin hard time to breathe and function. Exfoliating makes it easy for your skin to breathe and thwarts infection causing bacteria.

Probiotics, anti-inflammatory and lactic acid ability housed in yogurt help to reduce ailments and make your skin supple.

How to Use:

  • Mix powdered fenugreek seeds with yogurt in equal ratio.
  • Wash your face and massage fenugreek face mask on your skin.
  • Leave it for 15-20 minutes then rinse it off.

This face mask will exfoliate and wipe dead cell from your skin.

#3. Reduce Inflammation

Minor burns, eczema, pimples and other skin disorders are associated with inflammation. Apply fenugreek face mask topically will get rid of inflammation.

How to Use:

  • Grind methi seeds into powder and pour warm water to it.
  • Now apply the mixture over affected part like poultice. You can use clean cloth.
  • In other words, you just need to wrap mixed past in a cloth and apply it over affected part for few minutes.

Related post: Bentonite clay face mask

#4. Fenugreek for Acne

Properties in this herb draw toxins from the skin, so it can easily treat blackheads and enhance elasticity of the skin. Acne is mainly cause due to inflammation, which can be reduced using above mentioned face mask.

Also, fenugreek seeds are packed with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial abilities that can help you to fight acne.

Honey is packed with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and healing abilities. Humectant property residing in honey helps to get rid of dry skin.

  • Soak fenugreek seeds overnight.
  • Grind methi seeds with 1 tablespoon of manuka honey till you obtain smooth paste.
  • Wash your face with lukewarm water and apply this paste evenly in circular motion.
  • Rinse it off after 15-20 minutes.

#5. Prevent Dark Spots and Lightens the Skin

Dirt and dead cells along with bacteria accumulate over the skin to form dark spots. Fenugreek face mask wipes out all impurities and tones your skin making it glow naturally.

How to Use:

  • Soak fenugreek seeds as mentioned above and grind it with plain milk.
  • Apply the obtained paste over prewashed face and under eyes.
  • Let it dry naturally and rinse it off after 15 minutes.

Also read: Green tea for blackheads

#6. Protects your Skin from Sun

Prolonged exposure to sun rays makes your skin dark and results in peeling. Vitamin C housed in fenugreek seeds protects your skin from harmful UV rays.

Consuming it shows excellent results in protecting skin from sun rays. Else you can also use the above mentioned fenugreek and honey face mask.

  • Boil ½ cup of fenugreek seeds in 2 cups of water.
  • When the water turns yellowish, stop heating and allow it cool.
  • Refrigerate it and apply it on the face using a cotton ball.

#7. Fenugreek for Wrinkles

As you age, your skin loses its natural elasticity. Apart from aging other external factors results in premature aging wrinkles.

Topical application of such vitamin rich ingredients will enhance collagen production and improve elasticity of your skin.

As it combats with free radicals, fenugreek stands as an excellent innate remedy for aging signs.

  • Mix boiled milk to fenugreek paste, optionally add raw honey and mix thoroughly.
  • Topically apply this face mask over the face and then rinse it off.

Method- 2 (Anti-aging)

  • Take 1 tablespoon of methi seeds and soak it overnight.
  • In the morning, grind these seeds with 1 tbsp of plain yogurt.
  • Add little water if needed.
  • Blend till you obtain smooth paste.
  • Use this paste as a face mask to reduce wrinkles or fine lines.

#8 Methi Face Pack for Oily Skin

  • Take 2 tablespoons of methi seeds and soak it in a cup of water overnight.
  • Drain the water and mash the seeds to obtain smooth paste like consistency.
  • Add aloe gel or vitamin E oil to the methi paste and apply it on prewashed face.
  • Allow it to dry naturally for 15-20 minutes and then rinse it off with normal water.

You can use this simple face mask to brighten your skin.

How to Use Fenugreek Seeds to Nourish the Skin

As you can see fenugreek is naturally stuffed with exceptional nutrients that can nourish the skin and improve your skin tone.

  • Take fenugreek seeds and water in equal quantities.
  • Keep it over stove on simmer.
  • After 10 minutes, collect the strained water in a bowl and let it cool.
  • Now, daily wash your face using this water.

Nutrients in fenugreek transferred to water, which will cleanse and tones your skin.

Fenugreek Face Mask

Renowned properties housed in methi helps to reduce scars and treat acne lesions. Boil washed methi seeds in water for few minutes. Let it cool down and strain the seeds to apply the water over your face using cotton ball.

Alternatively, you can grind methi seeds with little water to form a thick paste like consistency and apply it over prewashed face.

Consumption of Fenugreek Seeds

Ingesting limited amount of methi seeds can treat various health related issues like cancer, reduce joint pains, lower cholesterol, maintain blood sugar level, promote proper digestion and helps to lose weight.

However, excess consumption may trigger inflammation and irritation. Pregnant women must consult their physician before ingesting these seeds.

Tips on Using Fenugreek Seeds for Face

  • To reap its nutrients for beautiful skin, experts recommend topical application.
  • To make it more effective you can blend other natural ingredients with methi seeds powder.
  • Ingredients that irritate your skin must be avoided.
  • Drink enough water and include vitamin rich diet for best results.
  • Chemical incorporated creams are harmful for your sensitive skin, so stop using them.
  • Choose any of the above mentioned recipes and start with small quantity to make sure your skin isn’t allergic to its ingredients.

Skin Whitening Tips With Fenugreek Seeds

  • Choose any one of the face mask recipes listed above.
  • Avoid chemical incorporated creams as they may irritate your sensitive skin.
  • Best time to apply this ingredient is before going to bed.
  • Apart from this, ingest skin lightening and collagen foods.

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How to Get Rid of Forehead Wrinkles

how to get rid of forehead wrinkles

Frown lines or forehead lines are no more just seen in aging people. You can see this even in teenagers. And cause for these forehead wrinkles include smoking, heredity, skin type and due to sun exposure. Sometimes even your diet may affect this. Whatever the reason is frown lines makes you look upset even when you’re not. It may seem to your friends/colleagues that you’re in serious problem even if you’re not in any problem.

Note: Frown lines are vertical lines formed when the eyebrows are brought together.

get rid of forehead wrinkles

There are many problems that can arise due to early forehead lines. You may get rejected when you propose anyone. You can be treated as elderly person in your group. There are infinite things which can listed.

Also read: Why is My Skin So Itchy?

But sadly there is no effective treatment through which you can scrape forehead lines. (You can go for surgery but that gonna cost you much from your pocket, as medical insurance can’t cover this because this considered cosmetic rather than medical). Well don’t worry you can reduce frown lines to some extent.

If you want to get a smooth glabella (space between the eyebrows) or get rid of forehead lines this article will inform you all those options you can go with.

Ways to get rid of Forehead lines

Treating Frown lines with Botox

Botox is nonsurgical cosmetic procedure performed in United States. In the year 2007 about 2.8 million Botox procedures were carried out. (source)

Botox involves injection. When injected to targeted muscles Botox reduces the frown lines in three to seven days to see results. And it’s not permanent, it lasts for 3 – 4 months. Anyway there are some minimal side-effects like drooping eyelids, headaches. There are few cases where Botox’s side effects include hard breathing, difficulty in swallowing and weak muscles.

If in case injection and side effects freaking you, then you out. Try with other way listed below to remove fine lines.

Consider reading this too: Home Remedies for Skin Allergies

Try Wrinkle fillers (Injection)

Unlike Botox Wrinkles fillers last for about 6 months and have almost minimal side effects. You must visit dermatologist’s office for this and remember this doesn’t last long. These fillers include collagen, hyaluronic acid gel, calcium hydroxylapatite and Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA).

If you’re not likely to visit a dermatologist every time then you can go with other options.

Surgery

This is permanent solution. Yes, it involves your pocket more than you expect. But it’s forever. Surgery involves positioning eyebrows or removing muscles or reduce frown lines.  It involves side effects like facial numbness, swelling and bruising.

Scraping those fine lines doesn’t involve easy way. Anyway there are few natural home remedies with which you can reduce these lines to some extent.

Tips to Get Rid of Forehead Wrinkles Easily at Home

  1. Are you confident that you’re leading a vigorous lifestyle? Are you caring yourself? Are you taking healthy diet? Are you sleeping on time? If your answers are not positive then you must checkout your diet and sleeping habits. Take vitamin rich food, drink at-least 2 liters of water everyday, sleep on time, workout regularly.
  2. Massage the targeted area (forehead, glabella) with olive oil regularly. Olive oil with coconut oil is an excellent way to hydrate skin.
  3. Massage with citrus fruits like orange, lemon and other citrus fruits. These are rich in vitamin E and C which can make skin healthy. Also you can try Aloe Vera and Egg white gel massage.
  4. Try face masks. In case you don’t know how to do read on here.
  5. Flaxseed oil is an effective way to get rid of frown lines.

Do you know any other way to get rid of forehead wrinkles/lines? Share here in comments.

Image source

Resource:

  • http://www.skincarephysicians.com/agingskinnet/botulinum_rejuvenation.html
  • http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm049349.htm
  • http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/news/20090501/fda-approves-new-wrinkle-treatment
  • http://www.aad.org/public/publications/pamphlets/cosmetic_softtissue.html
  • http://health.howstuffworks.com/skin-care/problems/treating/get-rid-of-frown-lines3.htm

You Can’t Believe Benefits of Spinach for Skin

If you’re a cartoon watcher then you might have seen Popeye the Sailor Man (the cartoon character) taking spinach to build his physical power. To some extent it’s true; you can build a healthy body though not tough with spinach. Spinach is native to central and southwestern Asia. Anyway according to metrics in 2011 United States got second position in spinach production.

Image Source

Dark green leafy spinach is powerhouse for nutrients, minerals and antioxidant. Having this you can cure many harmful diseases both with spinach.

Also Read: 15 Best Collagen Building Foods for Your Skin

Before knowing about the vitamins and minerals let’s see types of spinach.

Types of Spinach:

Spinach comes in three types Savoy, Semi-savoy, and Flat-leafed. Spinach grows best in cooler temperature. It grows about a height of 30cm.

Savoy Spinach:

It has crinkled leaves with low growth making washing leaves a chore. Cooler temperature is good for this type of spinach.

Semi-Savoy Spinach:

Unlike Savoy spinach semi-savoy spinach aren’t crinkly, so you can easily wash.

Flat or Smooth-leaf Spinach:

It comes with broad and smooth leaves, making it easy to wash.

Spinach Nutritional Value

This dark green leaf has beta-carotene, an antioxidant which helps skin to repair its cells. Also helps in slowing down cancer cells. Spinach has bunch of nutritional values which are listed below.

Vitamin K, Vitamin A, Manganese ,Folate ,Magnesium0, Iron, Vitamin C, Vitamin B2, Calcium, Potassium, Vitamin B6, Trytophan, Vitamin E, Dietary Fiber, Copper, Vitamin B1, Protein, Phosphorous, Zinc, Omega-3 Fatty Avids, Vitamin B3, Selenium.

Benefits of Spinach for Skin

We all crave for healthy and glowing skin. Like other body parts skin contains cells, to keep having a glowing skin you must provide required amount of nutrients. In previous post we discussed on foods which are best for skin. Here spinach has more nutritional values which help you get rid of many skin diseases.

#1 Spinach for Acne

Spinach helps rejuvenating and refreshing skin when used has face mask. Mix blended spinach with little water and apply it on your face for about 20 minutes. Taking spinach in liquid form is more preferred. Procedure to make spinach and vegetable juice is mix half tomato, ¼ cucumbers, one carrot, one celery, half red pepper, half cup cabbage, one green onion and a handful of spinach. Blend these vitamin rich ingredients and drink daily.

#2 Spinach for Wrinkles

Our body is made of 80% of water. Cells need enough amount of water to function properly. Taking enough amount of water will help you develop strong immune system to fight diseases. Spinach is has rich amount of water content in it. Take it in cooked or juice form and you’re providing enough amount of water for your body.

Dry skin is on among the reason for wrinkles. Spinach contains Iron and Vitamin C which are important for collagen production. Collagen is protein responsible for skin and muscle elasticity.

#3 Repairs Skin

Spinach is rich source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Vitamin A helps to keep smooth skin tone while vitamin C helps to build skin cells. Collagen present in skin responsible for skin elasticity and skin tone needs vitamin C and iron present in Spinach.

#4 Can reduce cancer cell growth

Spinach contains antioxidants which help to reduce cancer cell growth.

#5 Improves complexions

Vitamin K and folates in spinach reduce diseases like acne, dry skin and stretch marks making skin clear. Your skin glows when you provide rich amount of vitamins. No it won’t make you white if you’re black.

#6 Protects from UV rays

Vitamin B in spinach helps you from harmful UV rays which cause skin cancer, premature aging and other skin diseases.

Experts suggest that cooked spinach is more nutritious than raw spinach because we can’t digest all the nutrition from raw spinach. Exceptionally liquid spinach with other vegetables is preferred.

Spinach Face Mask

If you want to stay away from chemical filled masks and peels, try this innate homemade spinach face mask mixed with honey and other natural ingredients.

Things you’ll need

  • Fresh spinach leaves – 5 or 6
  • Raw honey – 1 tbsp (you can try manuka honey)
  • Lemon juice – 2 tbsp
  • Almond oil – (optional)
  • Water

Procedure

  • Chop fresh spinach leaves, mix raw honey, lemon juice to it. If you’ve sensitive skin, stay away from using excess lemon or add few tbsp of water.
  • The obtained mixture will be sticky.
  • Wash or cleanse your face first, then apply this homemade spinach and honey face mask.
  • Let it settle for 20 minutes and rinse it off with water.

Repeat the process to get smooth well toned skin.

You just covered discussion of spinach for skin. Spinach has mush more to give. Interested to know, below are references.