Many of us long for naturally glowing skin without wanting to break the bank achieving it; however, many of the key ingredients you need are probably in your kitchen cupboard not in your bathroom cupboard! Clear Spring has put together a list of natural foods that can help you get your skin looking its best.

Oats

With advocates including the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow and the Duchess of Cambridge, using oats in your daily skin care routine might be the key to giving you that Hollywood glow.  The parchment-like texture of oats makes them an effective exfoliator for those with very sensitive skin.

Oats are effective in fighting dull, flaky dryness as they contain polysaccharides, which become gelatinous in water. They form a fine protective film when applied on the skin.  Furthermore, their lipids and protein content also allows them to nourish and moisturize, making them the ultimate skin soother. Try wrapping a handful of Nairn’s rolled oats in a small piece of muslin cloth for an easy homemade natural body scrub that cleanses and hydrates.

Raw Cacao

Another natural skin booster that can be found in the kitchen is raw cacao.  Full of potent antioxidants, it can help reduce inflammation and puffiness. Apply a small amount of melted raw cacao – the higher cacao quality the better – such as OMBAR 90% Cacao, to the face and leave for 5 – 10 minutes then rinse with tepid water.

Sesame Oil

Oils are a 3-in-1 staple that will transform your beauty regime. Use either to remove stubborn mascara or as a hair mask. It’s also great to use as a moisturizer before you shower to lock in that essential moisture keep your skin smooth and silky throughout the day.

Pomegranate

If you’re looking for a new exfoliator, try crushing pomegranate seeds for a natural remedy. When the seeds are ground up they release their antioxidant nutrients thus exfoliating and nourishing your skin at the same time.

Matcha

Due to its high content of chlorophyll Matcha powder is a powerful detoxifier. This allows it to deeply cleanse the skin and help reduce inflammation while at the same time not containing any harsh chemicals. If you choose high-grade Matcha powder such as Clearspring’s Matcha shot you can simply mix with few drops of water, or plain yogurt for a thicker consistency, for a natural face mask that will soothe and nourish the skin.

Avocado

Avocado may be the Instagram-food-of-the-moment but did you know it’s also a staple of Kim Kardashian’s skincare regime? The healthy fats in avocados naturally moisturize your skin and reduce any inflammation. The oils of avocado are also very closely matched to the natural oils in your skin, so it will nourish and help to restore your skin’s glow at the end of a busy day. For a natural avocado facemask simply mix mashed avocado with Greek yogurt and honey and leave for 5- 10 minutes and then wash off with warm water.

Green Tea

Next time you indulge in a facemask, ditch the cucumber and opt for dampened Green Tea teabags. Their natural anti-oxidants will help to reduce puffiness and dark circles around the eyes, leaving you feeling fresh faced with any traces of tiredness banished!