Seven Miracle Beauty Products Found in the Food Aisle

Elle

By Megan Cahn

Though I opt for takeout more than I would like to admit, one of the things I really appreciate about cooking a meal at home is that I know exactly what I am putting in my body. It's so much healthier-not to mention cheaper. So why not use that same mentality when it comes to my beauty regimen? And in turn, the same shop. The grocery store is not only full of dinner options, but 100 percent natural items that work wonders for your skin and hair,too. Here's what you should add to your grocery list:

Milk

Next time you draw a bath, add a few cups of milk to the water. Lactic acid is a natural softener and will remedy your rough winter skin. For an at-home pedicure, soak your feet in a small basin of milk (any temperature you prefer) before you polish.

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Coffee

Wake yourself up with a cup of coffee and wake your skin up with the grounds. A java scrub is a natural exfoliator that will get your blood circulating, slough away dead skin, and reduce the appearance of cellulite. Fitness expert Dale Noelle of TRUE Model Management suggests mixing ½ cup of coffee grounds with olive oil (brown sugar or salt optional for extra exfoliation) and applying the mixture in a circular motion to your body before showering.

Oatmeal

When it comes to exfoliating your face, oatmeal is Noelle's go-to. It strips away dry skin while moisturizing, tightening, and smoothing. Puree ¾ a cup of oatmeal, one egg, ¼ cup mineral water, and ¼ cup of raw honey at room temperature in a blender. Apply to your face and leave for five minutes, or until your face begins to feel tight. Then rinse.

Coconut Oil

Coconut Oil is my new secret weapon. At first I was leery about slathering my skin with something used in a frying pan, but once I gave in, my skin was petal soft in an instant. I have not gone back to my old lotion since. It can also be used as makeup remover, an eye de-puffer, and shaving cream. Then there's your hair: It repairs damage, smooths frizz and flyways, and can add major shine.

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Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar makes an ideal natural toner as it balances the skin's pH. Mix it with water-more for dry skin and less for oily-and swipe over your face with a cotton ball after you wash.

Strawberries

Smearing red mush all over your teeth to whiten them certainly seems counterintuitive. But strawberries are full of vitamin C, which gets rid of plaque, and astringent, which helps remove stains. Both will leave your smile brighter and your teeth healthier-no gummy strips needed. Simply mash the strawberries (adding baking soda is optional) and use a toothbrush to spread over your soon-to-be pearly whites. Leave on for five minutes once a week.

RELATED: 10 Foods to Eat For Gorgeous Hair

Honey

Raw honey has been an ingredient in a few of our DIY elixirs already and can be mixed with equal parts olive oil to condition hair and equal parts oatmeal for a deep facial cleanser. But even on its own, honey has amazing powers. If applied to a burn it can decrease the pain, while helping you to heal without scarring. If you aren't squeamish about stickiness, try honey on your face for an extra-moisturizing, antioxidant-rich mask.


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