Avocados are one of the most nutritional of fruits, and while most of us are familiar with their taste in salads and side dishes, they are also commonly used in beauty treatments. Because of their high content of vitamin C, vitamin E and other nutrients, avocados have been valued since the time of the Aztecs for use in pampering the body, both inside and out.
Face
Mash half an avocado, and add it to one whipped egg yolk and 1/2 cup milk. Beat or blend until smooth. Apply it to your face with a cloth or square of cotton, rubbing it in gently and thoroughly before rinsing well. This cleanser will remove excess makeup as well as everyday grime and pollutants that collect on your skin. Another handy use for avocados is to use the inside of the skin as a moisturizer. After removing the fruit, rub the inside of the avocado skin gently on your face and hands. Allow it to penetrate 15 minutes before rinsing off.
For a refreshing mask, mix one-half mashed avocado with 2 tbsp. milk. Apply to your clean, dry face and relax for 20 minutes
Hands
If your hands are especially dry and chapped, you can apply avocado and then wear a pair of cotton gloves to bed for an overnight treatment. The residue of avocado oil will be imperceptible and your skin will be noticeably softer.
Another handy avocado use is to mix half an avocado with 2 tbsp. oatmeal, one egg white and 1 tsp lemon juice. Rub the mixture deeply into your hands, applying extra to the cuticle area. Allow it to soak in for 20 minutes before rinsing with warm water and a wash cloth; follow with a cool water rinse and pat dry.
Eyes
For puffy eyes, slice one-half a peeled avocado into 1/4-inch crescents. Place several slices beneath each eye. Close your eyes, lie down and relax for 15 to 20 minutes before removing and rinsing.
Hair
For a deep conditioner that’s effective against sun-damaged hair, mix one mashed avocado with 1 tbsp. olive oil and one egg yolk. Apply to wet hair with your fingers, starting at the scalp and massaging the mixture into your hair. Wrap your hair in a hot towel for 20 minutes, and then rinse well. Follow up with your favorite shampoo and conditioner to revitalize your hair.
Photo Credit
- avocado in avocado p??ree image by Lucky Dragon from Fotolia.com
