Winter can be hard on the skin, as everyone knows. The low humidity of winter makes everything from the skin on your body to the leaves on the trees dry and brittle. However, in my own country kitchen I've found some remedies that help ease dry, itchy skin. One such remedy uses EVOO (Extra Virgin Olive Oil). My thought was, if an engine uses oil to lube its inner working parts, why can’t oil do the same for me? So, I changed the way I cooked. I substituted EVOO everywhere I previously used butter, margarine, or other animal fat products. I even started adding it to the water in which I boil my pasta. After about four weeks I felt my skin had a healthier glow. Serendipity - it worked! So, I took it a step further.
I made a solution of avocado and EVOO in the food processor and used it as a facial mask. I applied the mixture for 5-10 minutes, then rinsed it off with warm water, and WOW, again I felt my skin was smoother than before the treatment!
Since that worked so well, I looked in my pantry and experimented with sesame oil. I diluted it with some bottled water, put it in a spray bottle, and started misting myself after showering, then toweled dry. Terrific!
And what about your hair? It too can become dry and brittle in the winter. Protein-infused shampoos and conditioners can add to the dryness of hair, so forget about buying a bunch of new hair products. To add luster to your hair, simply use what's in your kitchen. Here's a simple, old fashioned remedy: mix some mayonnaise, one egg yoke, and some EVOO in the food processor. Then apply the concoction to the ends of your hair and work your way up to your scalp (use very sparingly on your scalp). For extra conditioning place a shower cap over your hair and leave on for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse well with warm water and let your hair air dry. Use a pick to get the tangles out - it is easier on your hair than a comb.
P.S. I suggest that you do this on a day when you are not going out in public because you might smell and feel like a salad!
Keep in mind, all of these wonderful beauty aids have no “shelf life” so they must be used on the day that you make them. Now back to the kitchen for more experimenting.
“Bon Appetit!”
