Shea Butter Benefits

• Moisturizing: The concentration of natural vitamins and fatty acids in shea makes it incredibly nourishing and moisturizing for skin. It is often used to remedy dry skin and to help protect the skin’s natural oils.
• Reduces Inflammation: A 2010 study found that due to its cinnamic acid and other natural properties, shea butter was anti-inflammatory. One compound in particular, lupeol cinnamate, was found to reduce skin inflammation and even potentially help avoid skin mutations. This also makes it beneficial for some people with acne.
• Skin Smoothing: Shea aids in the skin’s natural collagen production and contains oleic, stearic, palmitic, and linolenic acids that protect and nourish the skin to prevent drying. With long-term use, many people report skin softening and strengthening as well as wrinkle reduction.

The good news is, it’s great to use on kids and babies too!

Ways to Use Shea Butter

Shea butter is one of the most versatile natural beauty ingredients and I use it daily in some form. I’ve used it for years in everything from my homemade lotion bars and original magnesium body butter to homemade lip balms and healing salves.

Some of my favorite uses for shea butter:

1. By itself for face and body as a natural moisturizer
2. In a shea butter lotion bar stick for easy use
3. After sun or beach exposure to replenish skin
4. Alone or in a pregnancy salve to ward off stretch marks
5. As a natural cuticle cream
6. As the best under-eye wrinkle remover and bag-reducer
7. As a massage butter
8. In my homemade velvety soft whipped body butter
9. On sore/raw noses during a cold or flu
10. Added to basic homemade lotion
11. On scars to naturally help collagen production
12. As a base for homemade deodorant
13. By itself for low-grade sun protection
14. Whipped into magnesium body butter
15. As a natural baby-care product (alone) or ingredient in baby care recipes
16. By itself on the lips or in homemade lip balms
17. In a homemade shimmer lip balm
18. On the eyelids before applying makeup to make it last longer
19. To improve skin elasticity (some even say it helps with cellulite)
20. On the hair or scalp (in mixture with other natural ingredients)
21. In homemade liquid creme foundation and makeup

TIP: If the shea butter is too thick for what you’re trying to do, melt it over very low heat and then use. Do not let it get close to boiling or you will lose beneficial properties. You can also emulsify it with other oils using the technique in my lotion recipe.

Words are defined according to the Oxford advanced learners dictionary.

The word “pants” have about three definitions. The definitions include;

First definition: pants are knickers.

Example: A pair of pants. 

Second definition: pants are trousers.

Example: A new pair of pants.

Third definition: A pant is something that you think is of poor quality.

Example: Their new CD is absolute pants!

 Using “pants” to represent inner wears is highly unprofessional and can make people to look at you as primitive person.

 Call it ‘underwear’ Instead of calling it ‘pant’. You might be wondering why it is called underwear instead of pants, here is why it is so, underwear according to the same dictionary is defined as; a cloth that you wear under other clothes and next to the skin. If you still doubt, do you wear your so-called pants after wearing other clothes? Or do you wear it before wearing others?

Here, are the ways of brighten your complexion and I argue you to stop bleaching from today.

Lemon Juice

Lemons are known as natural bleaching agents and the juice of lemons are applied on the skin to brighten complexion and make you light.

Lemon juice contains lots of vitamin C, and citric acids; these nutrients brighten your complexion and improve the quality of your skin. They make your skin glow and boosts its health. It treats skin problems and infections and also fades scars.

Apply lemon juice all over your body and have your bath when it dries off. You can do this once daily and you will notice an improvement in your skin tone.

You can also make your own body scrub to give you a brighter skin; mix lemon juice, baking soda, turmeric and rose water together. Mix them properly and apply them all over your body before you have your bath.

Let it sit for ten minutes before you wash it off, do this once daily and you will notice an improvement in your complexion.

Pure Honey

It hydrates the skin, it fights infections and also lightens complexion and make your skin appear bright. Apply raw and pure honey all over your skin and let it sit for at least 15 minutes before you wash it away.

It improves the appearance and quality of your skin and it also gives your skin a healthy glow.

Pure Olive Oil

Extra-virgin olive oil gives the skin a clean and bright appearance. It gives you a natural glow and makes your skin look attractive. It is great for the skin and it lightens your complexion, this is because it is rich in antioxidants and vitamin E.

When you have your bath, dry your body and apply extra-virgin olive oil all over your skin as your body cream, use cold-pressed olive oil as that is the purest form of olive oil available. Let it be your skin, do not wash it off till at night or the next time you want to have your bath.

Baking Soda

This common kitchen ingredient brightens the complexion, it is a very simple but effective remedy. It even shrinks large pores on your skin, thus fighting aging and making you look younger.

It also clears skin pigmentations and patches or discolorations; it cleans the skin by removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, thereby brightening the complexion.

Mix water with baking soda, you can also use rose water, orange juice or lemon juice; apply this paste all over your body. Scrub gently as the baking soda needs just minimal help from you to brighten your complexion.

After scrubbing gently, leave it on your skin for few minutes before having your bath. Do this three times weekly for a bright and healthy looking skin.

Cucumbers

For ages, cucumbers have been used to soothe the skin and treat lots of skin problems. They are one of the most common natural skin care treatments and they give a bright looking complexion.

Blend cucumbers and extract the juice. Apply this juice all over your body and leave it for at least 15 minutes before washing it off. This tones the skin, improves complexion and treats skin problems like spots, scars, and puffiness.

Witch Hazel

This inexpensive and effective herb helps you tone your skin and lighten your complexion. It removes impurities from your skin, and this, in turn, will brighten it and treat infections.

Buy pure witch hazel and mix it aloe vera gel, apply this all over your body and then you wash it away after some minutes. This is an effective and inexpensive way to lighten your complexion. It causes no harm to your skin and health.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal eliminates toxins from the skin and this gives you a bright complexion because accumulated toxin on the skin dulls your complexion and can even make the skin look unhealthy and sick.

Using oatmeal on your skin is a powerful way to detoxify your skin and brighten your complexion. Mix oatmeal with hot water, add egg white, raw honey, and natural yogurt. Mix all till it forms a thick paste with a uniform consistency.

Apply this all over your body and leave it on for 15 minutes. Have your bath with warm water and do this once daily to have a bright complexion and a clean skin free of toxins and dead skin cells.

Gram Flour

This is one of the best natural ingredients if you want to whiten your skin complexion. It also keeps your skin very healthy because it contains many natural ingredients. It hydrates the skin and eliminates excess oil from the skin which can lead to acne and other skin problems that can cause spots and scars.

Mix gram flour and ordinary water or rose water; this should form a thick paste. Apply it all over your body and leave it on till it dries off and then you have your bath. This should be done daily

Do you know what makes your anti-aging cream work? With so many products on the market, it can be difficult to suss out which products will slow the effects of time on your skin and which are smoke and mirrors, says Joshua Zeichner,MD, the director of cosmetic and clinical research in the dermatology department at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. But some ingredients, such as retinol and sunscreen, do have proven benefits, he explains. Top dermatologists say the following anti-agers are the most potent wrinkle-fighters on the market.

1

B Vitamins for Healthy Skin, Hair, and Nails

These essential vitamins appear in multiple forms and complexes in Skin-care products. Yet the function of all vitamin B derivatives is the same: to convert food into energy to fuel vital body processes — including those responsible for healthy, firm skin. “Vitamin B and all its derivatives are essential for healthy skin, hair, and nails,” says Joel schlessinger MD, a dermatologist in Omaha, Nebraska.

B vitamins can be especially potent in moisturizers, Dr. Schlessinger says. When these vitamins are among the ingredients in your skin care, damaged cells will heal and regenerate more quickly. And if you’re looking to supplement your anti-aging cream, one of the best natural sources of vitamin B is bananas.

2

Coenzyme Q10 to Protect Collagen

Coenzyme Q10 (vitamin Q) is a strong antioxidant that can help build the foundation needed for younger-looking skin. “Coenzyme Q10 helps protect the elastic tissue and collagen that shape your skin,” explains Jessica Wu, MD, an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. As we get older, our natural coenzyme Q10 levels diminish, slowing the skin’s ability to rejuvenate and protect itself from damage. To build levels of the coenzyme, many find that taking a dietary supplement in addition to using topical creams yields optimal results. There’s a bonus to coenzyme Q10 supplements, too — some researchers believe they aid in preventing heart disease.

3

Copper to Prevent Sagging and Fill Wrinkles

You’re probably imagining pennies, but the copper we’re talking about is found in trace amounts in skin cells, where it binds proteins together. Essential for collagen formation, the anti-aging ingredient helps support the skin to prevent sagging and to fill in wrinkles. Clinical studies have shown that copper contributes to the clearing and renewal of fractured collagen, making it an excellent ingredient for those who wish to improve the look of sun-damaged skin and scars. “Copper is nonirritating,” explains Dr. Wu, “so it’s a good alternative for those with sensitive skin who may not be able to tolerate retinoids.”

4

Green Tea to Revitalize Your Skin

You may sip a cup of warm green tea to relax, but the ancient plant from which the tea is brewed is replete with nutrients that recharge your skin. While the healing medicinal properties of the leaf redound to phytochemicals known as polyphenols, it’s the stimulant qualities that can have an energizing effect on aging skin. “Green tea has a wonderful effect on dark circles — which is especially striking when combined with caffeine in eye cream,” says Schlessinger. Green tea is also an antioxidant, meaning that it aids in preventing and repairing the damage done by oxidation, which breaks down skin cells.

5

Peptides to Stimulate Collagen Production

Because of the promising results of clinical research, such as a study published in December 2018 in the international journal of peptide Research and Therapeutics, peptides are becoming increasingly popular anti-aging skin-care ingredients. Peptides are short chains of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. Most peptide creams are designed to stimulate collagen to improve the appearance of wrinkles, explains Dr. Zeichner. But not all peptide creams are created equal, so you should stick to products that have gone through clinical testing, he notes. 

6

Retinoids and Retinols to Speed Up Cell Turnover

Over-the-counter retinols and prescription retinoids like Retin-A are derivatives of vitamin A. “Retinoids and retinols speed up and stimulate cell turnover and collagen production for smoother and younger-looking skin,” says Wu. No other ingredient, she adds, has been more tested and proven by the medical community as an aging antidote than retinoids. But don’t expect results overnight — it takes several weeks or even months for retinol to exert its wrinkle-fighting effect, so it must be used over long periods of time, Zeichner says. Plus, retinoids and retinols can be drying, and can make you more sensitive to the sun. Use them in moderation, and counter any retinoid- or retinol-containing product with daily sunscreen use.

7

Vitamin E to Reverse Damage and Rejuvenate Skin

Vitamin E is a powerhouse when it comes to reversing the type of skin damage that leads to dryness, collagen destruction, and fine lines and wrinkles. The vitamin neutralizes cell-damaging free radicals, which are triggered by environmental factors like sun exposure. “Vitamin E is a great antioxidant to look for in rejuvenating skin creams, and it can assist with wound healing as well, by strengthening the skin barrier,” says Schlessinger. This is why pure vitamin E oil remains a popular (and inexpensive) salve for cracked cuticles and scars from cuts, burns, and surgery.

8

Sunscreen to Prevent Skin Cancer (and Improve Your Appearance)

Not only does sunscreen help prevent skin cancer, it’s also been shown to improve the cosmetic appearance of the face, even if used by itself, Zeichner says. In a study published in December 2016 in the journal Dermatologic Surgery, sunscreen alone applied to the face for one year resulted in improvements of cosmetic measures like skin tone, texture, and wrinkles.

9

Vitamin C to Neutralize Damage and Lighten Dark Spots

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that neutralizes damage from free radicals and helps complement the effect of your sunscreen, explains Zeichner. “In the morning, I have my patients layer vitamin C underneath their sunscreen,” he says. Vitamin C also interferes with abnormal pigment production, helping to lighten dark spots, he adds.

10

Hydroxy Acids to Exfoliate Dead Cells and Fight Wrinkles

Hydroxy acids like glycolic acid help exfoliate dead cells from the surface of the skin. “They’ve also been shown to stimulate collagen and improve the appearance of lines and wrinkles,” explains Zeichner. Hydroxy acids come in varying strengths, so it’s important to check with a board-certified dermatologist to find out which one is right for you.

“These tips are not from a medical expert. Make more findings and/or exercise caution if you decide to try them.”

Tomatoes are great natural bleaching agents when used as skincare ‘products’.

Loaded with antioxidants, they are known to lighten dark spots and helps the skin remain youthful as well as brighter. Tomatoes also work as a natural astringent that helps tighten the skin as well as shrink large pores, leaving the skin tight and glowing.

Tomatoes also work perfectly to lighten the skin for an even skintone or to clear dark spots. Here are two ways to achieve an even and lighter skintone with tomatoes.

1. Tomato Face Mask

What you need:

– Tomato (Juice)

– Lemon Juice

– Milk

Directions:

– Strain the juice out of tomatoes into a clean bowl

– Add lemon juice and milk to the tomato juice mixing properly

-Wash your face

– Apply the mix to properly cleansed face (neck area as well)

– Leave this on for about 20 minutes

– Rinse off with cold water

2. Tomato Honey Mask

What you need:

– Tomato (Juice)

– Honey

Directions:

– Strain tomato juice into a container

– Mix 2 tablespoon of honey (with equal part of tomato juice)

– Wash/cleanse the face

– Apply the mix on clean face and leave it on for 15-20 minutes

– Rinse off with water.

If you want to rock your sexy legs you’ll need to slough off those dead cells and get your skin back to looking buttery smooth. We’ve rounded up the best ways to get smoother, fuzz-free, sexier legs even through the winter months. Caution: all eyes will be on your legs with these 12 skincare tips.

1. Dry Brush

Dry brushing not only sloughs off dead skin cells, but it dramatically improves the appearance of your skin, promotes circulation, and helps to absorb your moisturizer more effectively. Before you hop into the shower or bath, use an upward motion using a dry brush. If you suffer from dry, dark patches on knees, make sure to regularly dry brush to help keep the skin barrier in as good a shape as possible.

2. Scrub

One of the keys to getting that “glow” is through regular exfoliation. From the pristine environment of Fiji, comes an extraordinary moisturizing body treatment. Coconut sugar scrub with fresh sugar cane crystals, contain naturally occurring alpha hydroxyl to gently buff away aging skin cells, polish your skin clean and unclog pores. Added to this is the deep moisturizing richness of a blend of cold pressed virgin coconut, dilo, macadamia and sikeci oils to nourish, and protect your beautiful skin – leaving it with a healthy glow. Ideal for all skin types. This generous 16 oz. jar will give you 15-18 treatments. Natural skin care – The Pacific way.

3. Moisturize

Believe it or not swimming in chlorine water, air conditioning, chemicals in bug repellants and sun exposure can cause dry skin in the summer months. Avoid hot, steamy showers that can aggravate dry skin. Always apply your moisturizer as soon as you can when the skin is still moist. Try  Hydrating Body Lotion available in 11 tropical infusions such as coconut lime blossom, mango, and pineapple. These nourishing blends of exotic nut extracts blended with fresh coconut milk rapidly hydrate, nourish and protect your sexy legs. They are complete bio-networks of essential nutrients and vitamins for your daily skin requirements and add vitality and softness to your skin. Absorbs quickly and keeps skin hydrated.

4. Drink Water

You may not realize this but those yummy summer cocktails like mojitos, daiquiris, wine slushies, and sangrias mean you’ll need to keep water flowing all night long since alcohol strips water from the body. If you want your skin to look moisturized, healthy, and hydrated, you’ll need to do more than just exfoliate and moisturize. Drink more water ladies, and you’ll begin to notice a boost in your beauty and all-around wellness.

5. Humidifier at Bedtime

Our skin has a tendency to dry out during the night. Use a humidifier at bedtime to reduce the loss of moisture.

6. Use Sun Protection

You’ve heard time and again that you should use sunscreen every day to help reduce your risk of skin cancer, prevent pesky wrinkles, pigmentation, and other signs of premature aging. Unfortunately, when people hit the beach, what’s the first thing you see? People lay out their blankets, strip down to their bathing suit, and then the SPF comes out the beach bag. Wrong oh so wrong. Did you know that you should actually be applying your sunscreen 30 minutes before you expose your skin in the sun? Your sunscreen needs time to penetrate into the skin and start working. So those first few minutes you’re out in the sun is when your skin is most vulnerable.

7. Don’t forget your feet

Beautiful legs and the heels of your foot go hand in hand. Wearing flip-flops and walking barefoot is one of the best things about summer. The bad news is that it can damage the skin on your feet. The constant exposure to air dries out your skin, creating calluses. If you can’t make it to the spa for a regular pedicure; then scrub your feet with a pumice stone when showering or when taking a bath. As soon as you hop out of the shower pamper your heels with with shea butter. This super moisturizing cream will instantly revive dry skin. A unique blend of cold pressed coconut, dilo, macadamia and sikeci oils rapidly hydrate skin and lock in the moisture to keep your skin perfectly hydrated and nourished.

8. Shave Hair

Did you know that shaving your hair is best done in the evening? One of the worst things you can do is to shave just before you go out in the sun when your skin is sensitive. You need to give your skin time to recover from any redness or irritation. Skip spending money on expensive shaving foams, instead use a shower gel like Pure coconut oil which works just as well. It will help the razor glide over your legs and feel amazingly soft afterwards too!

9. Leg Highlighter

Who said makeup is only for the face?  Thanks to beauty guru Charlotte Tilbury, with a body highlighter you can get long-limbed, glossy-skinned perfection in minutes! Apply in the center of your legs for a gorgeous glow, and blend out with your hands.

10. Minimize “Cottage Cheese”

Cellulite is all too common with women especially in the legs. You must be consistent with your diet and exercise to achieve amazing results. That’s not always easy peasy. Consider a weight training program to tone and firm the muscles in your legs. Squats and lunges are great exercises that target the leg muscles.

11. Get the circulation going

Before you step out of the shower give yourself 5 seconds of cold then warm water, moving the shower head from your ankles to hips, and repeat three times. This provides a toning effect and gets your circulation going, which helps the skin absorb your moisturizer.

12. Massage

While regular visits to the massage therapist may be too deep for your pockets you can try self-massage using Body Oil, olive oil or shea butter. This nourishing blend absorbs of organic oils (coconut, dilo, and macademia) quickly and will rejuvenate, replenish, hydrate and nourish your skin. It’s a great multi-purpose oil used as a massage oil, makeup remover, cheekbone highligher, bath oil or daily moisturizing treatment. Use your thumbs, working up from the ankles, to the backs of the calves and knees. Do this for about two minutes per leg. It will stretch out tight muscles and drain out lymph fluid.  If you have puffy, heavy legs gently squeeze the leg working your hands upwards from the ankle.

Even if you don’t plan to strut around in a bikini you still want your legs to look soft and sun-kissed. Skin is your body’s largest organ. It’s affected by every aspect of your life, from what you eat, to what you put on, to where you live. By using a proper skin care routine you’ll be able to; fight signs of aging, heal faster, prevent potential disease and look smoking hot.