Sunday, January 11, 2009

At-Home Beauty Treatments

The problem: Dry hair

The treatment: An avocado hair mask. Thanks to its high fat and protein content, “avocado is very nourishing, just the thing for taming frizz,” says makeup artist David Goveia, who's beautified the likes of Kate Moss and Cameron Diaz.

What you need: Half of a ripe peeled avocado, one egg and two tablespoons of wheat germ oil. (You can also substitute wheat germ oil for olive or castor oil.)

Making it: In a small bowl, mash the avocado until it's smooth. Then add the egg and oil and blend well.

Using it: Massage the mixture to dry hair, starting from the ends up. Once you've applied it all, cover your head with a shower cap or small plastic bag, grab a book and set the timer for 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and shampoo out. Note: You can increase the conditioning benefits by wrapping a warm, moist towel around your head while you wait.

How often to use it: For dry and damaged hair, once a week will help get it back on track. If it's normal to oily, twice a month is recommended.
The problem: Dry skin

The treatment: A honey-yogurt mask to rejuvenate parched skin. The lactic acid in yogurt gently exfoliates, while honey helps draw moisture to the skin, says Carreiro.

What you need: One teaspoon of brewer's yeast, a quarter-cup of plain yogurt and three tablespoons of honey.

Making it: In a small bowl, mix all ingredients with a spoon until well blended.

Using it: Before applying the mixture, prep skin with a warm, damp cloth for a few minutes. Smooth the mixture on skin and leave for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water. Note: Putting these leftovers in an airtight container will keep them fresh for up to 48 hours.

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