Bananas. Make great moisturizers as well as cleansers. They are rich in protein and natural fats so this fruit can be used by all skin types without worrying about irritation. Bananas are one of the most nourishing fruits available because they contain large quantities of magnesium, potassium, iron, zinc, iodine, and vitamins A, B (folic acid), E, and F. Mash some bananas and massage all over your skin. Let it sit for 15 minutes and rinse with warm water. Mashed banana with a teaspoon of honey can also make for a fruity hair conditioner.
Strawberry. If you’re worried about acne, look no further because strawberries are rich in salicylic acid, an ingredient found in many acne creams. Mix about ½ cup of strawberries with a tablespoon of sour cream for a weekly facial mask. Eating the fresh berries would also whiten your teeth and make for a great dessert.
Papaya. Papayas are good for cleansing your body and ridding your skin of dead skin cells. Papayas are rich in natural enzymes and the greener the papaya the higher the natural enzyme content. Mix together mashed papaya with several teaspoons of aloe vera gel and massage all over your body monthly. Leave on your skin for no more than five minutes and rinse thoroughly. Do not use on your face and avoid sensitive skin areas.
Peaches: Peaches are especially soothing for dry skin. Mash a fresh peach and combine with a tablespoon of plain yogurt to make a smooth paste. Spread the mixture over damp skin and let sit for 15 minutes, rinse well with cool water.
Pineapple: Like papaya pineapples are also good skin softeners, especially for classic rough skin spots like knees, elbows, and heels. Pineapples contain an active enzyme called bromelain, which cleanses and rejuvenates dull skin. Use a slice of pineapple as you would a sponge or loofah to scrub your body in the bath or shower. To soften rough feet try a pineapple juice footbath. Soak your feet for 15 to 20 minutes, rinse and follow-up with a rich cream.
Lemons: A classic home beauty ingredient, lemons are used to cleanse and freshen the skin and hair. Use lemon slices to soften rough skin spots such as elbows and heels. Lemon slices also help deodorize and deep cleanse your hands after a messy job, add a bit of cornmeal for extra cleansing power. Lemon juice can be added to your favorite cleanser or shampoo to refresh and tone your scalp. For subtle hair highlights, comb some fresh juice through clean hair and sit in the sun for 15-20 minutes. (Make sure to condition your hair as lemon juice can be drying.) In the bath float fresh slices in your tub for an energizing start to your day.
Apples: Apple juice makes a breath sweetening mouth rinse and can also be used as a skin toner. Add a cup of juice to your bath to cleanse and soften your skin. The juice contains malic acid, which acts as an antioxidant. Fresh juice can also be used as a hair rinse to control dandruff. Use as a final rinse after shampooing your hair.
Honey. If you’re looking for a facial mask honey could be better than any on the market. Honey has the natural ability to attract and retain moisture as such it can maintain the skin’s softness, suppleness and elasticity. Honey can also add sheen to hair, prevent acne and can even cure a hangover. Place a cloth in warm water and apply to your face to open up the pores. Smear honey on and leave for 15 to 30 minutes. Rinse off with cold water to close the pores. It’s is advisable not to go outside during the process because you might attract real bees.
