By Pia Bhattacharya, SELF magazine
Wasabi. A nose-tingling, sinus-clearing ingredient that I always approach with caution. Too much can elicit an involuntary reaction many of us sushi lovers are all too familiar with. You know, the shot of fiery pain straight through your nose that seems to reach right into the depths of your brain (yoww!). Wasabi may give your sushi a special zing, but did you know it can work wonders on your skin, too? I know, part of me wouldn't dream of putting that anywhere near my face but c'mon, we've tried weirder things for the sake of good skin.
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What are the benefits?
Apparently wasabi has a variety of healing qualities. It was originally used by the Japanese to ward off food poisoning because of its antimicrobial properties, but it's also packed with potassium, calcium, Vitamin C and phytochemicals that strengthen antioxidants in your body and help your skin fight free radicals. When applied to skin, it's stimulating and increases circulation and oxygenation.
Where can you find it?
Try a DIY Massage Oil to improve circulation, warm up stiff muscles and give your skin that tingly, awake feeling. Heat light vegetable oil in a pan for 2 to 3 minutes, until it's warm. Stir in wasabi paste and let it cool completely. Add in Vitamin E oil and transfer it to a squirt bottle or spray bottle. Massage onto clean skin and rinse with cool water. Make sure you avoid cuts, scrapes or burns because it can sting!
Cleanse with Lather Lemongrass Wasabi Hand Wash: This uses the natural antiseptic properties of wasabi to gently get rid of germs for super clean, soothed and moisturized skin.
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Repair your hair with Biologique Recherche Baume Capillaire: Wasabi extract is used here as a protective ingredient. Just apply a bit all over your hair after washing, leave it on and rinse. It helps repair your cuticles, restores shine and coats the hair to protect it from further damage.
Will you add some wasabi to your skincare routine?
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Photo Credit: amazon.com
