As the clean beauty revolution continues to take the world by storm in a world that’s more driven by industrialization than ever before, it's helpful to know that there are some simple ways to get back to nature.
Our mamás and abuelitas have been champions of natural skincare long before it became the trend of the day.
These all-natural beauty alternatives won’t just be easier on your pocket, they’re also environmentally friendly. Whether you're on a quest to ditch your regular drugstore haul or simply in the mood for some DIY beauty experimentation, let's dive right into these super-simple, homemade recipes.
Treat your lashes to an aloe vera mascara
Photo by Jude Smart on UnsplashAloe Vera, a plant indigenous to Mexico, is known for its healing properties and is believed to help reduce fine lines and accelerate wound healing. But did you know it can also encourage lash growth?
Mix 1 teaspoon of Aloe Vera gel, 1 teaspoon of activated charcoal for the dark color, and 1/2 teaspoon of beeswax to give the mixture body. Heat the ingredients until they meld into a smooth blend, then carefully transfer it into a clean mascara tube. Let it cool, and it's ready to use!
Nourish your lips with an avocado lip balm
Photo by Bethany Randall on UnsplashPacked with vitamins A, D, and E, avocado oil is a highly nourishing moisturizer, making it a great base for a lip balm.
Blend 1 tablespoon of avocado oil, 1 tablespoon of coconut oil, and 1 teaspoon of beeswax in a heatproof container. Melt the mixture over simmering water until smooth, then add a few drops of your favorite essential oil. Pour into small containers, let it cool, and voilà, your natural lip balm is ready!
Exfoliate your body with coffee grounds
Photo by Mae Mu on UnsplashThis face mask leverages coffee's antioxidants for a refreshing facial treatment. Plus, it smells delicious!
Mix 2 tablespoons of fresh coffee grounds, 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, and 3 tablespoons of milk (for its lactic acid). Apply to the face, avoiding the eye area, and leave on for 20 minutes before rinsing.
Ditch the blush for a beetroot lip and cheek stain
Photo by Nick Collins on UnsplashA vibrant, red beetroot serves as a natural, long-lasting lip and cheek stain. A very popular “hack” in many Latin American cultures for its rich color!
Grate a small beetroot, then squeeze the juice into a small pot. Simmer until the liquid reduces to a concentrated form, then let it cool. Use a cotton swab to apply this DIY stain to your lips or cheeks for a natural rosy flush.
Enhance your glow with a coconut oil highlighter
Photo by Tijana Drndarski on UnsplashKnown for its moisturizing properties, coconut oil provides a natural sheen perfect for highlighting. This is a favorite in tropical areas.
Melt 2 tablespoons of coconut oil, and mix it with a pinch of mica powder (a natural mineral with a shimmery finish). Pour the mixture into a small container and let it cool. Use your fingers or a brush to apply to your cheekbones, brow bone, or anywhere else you'd like a bit of glow.
Set your makeup with cornstarch translucent powder
Photo by Nathan Dumlao on UnsplashTranslucent powder is essential for setting your makeup, and cornstarch, a staple in many of our kitchens, serves as a natural alternative.
Take 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of green clay powder (for oil control, if you have oily skin), and cocoa powder. Start with a small amount of cocoa powder and gradually add until you reach a color that matches your skin tone. Store this blend in a small container, and use a brush to apply it as needed.
These are just a few ways to harness the power of natural ingredients for beauty products and many do them could help reduce the risk of skin irritation from synthetic chemicals found in commercial makeup. So why not give these Latin American-inspired, all-natural makeup alternatives a try? Tag us if you do @theluzmedia!
