Here at PRETTY GIRLS SWEAT, we know how important a well-balanced diet is to promote heart health, weight loss, energy levels, and even reduce the effects of aging. But we also know that a good skin care regimen is just as important because when you look good, you feel good.

Unfortunately, stocking up on your favorite celebrity’s skincare line can be costly to improve skin health and appearance, but what if we told you that flawless skin is just as close as your kitchen pantry? Check out these three nutrient-dense superfoods below that can double as skin care agents!

1. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar, or ACV, is a liquid derived from fermented apples. Most people know Apple Cider Vinegar as a kitchen cabinet staple, typically used in salad dressings, marinades, and the like. When consumed in moderate amounts, ACV facilitates a ton of health benefits, such as lowering blood sugar, suppressing appetite, and regulating one’s ph balance.

Now it gets even better—when applied topically, ACV becomes your skincare bestie! Dermatologists regard Apple Cider Vinegar as being an all-in-one solution to fighting acne, hyperpigmentation, and oil buildup.

DO:
•When dealing with ACV, remember the golden ratio of 1:4
Always dilute one part ACV with four parts water.

•Use the mixture as a toner.
Saturate a cotton pad with the solution and rub gently over the face. Allow it to dry, do not rinse off.

•Use as an exfoliant.
According to dermatologist Michele Green, “Apple cider vinegar contains malic acid, which is similar to alpha-hydroxy acid,” Green says. “Malic acid works well on acne-prone skin as it gently exfoliates to unclog the pores and eliminate bacteria.”

Fill your bathtub with warm water and add a cup of ACV. Soak in the mixture for 15 minutes to reap the most benefits.

Don’t:
•Don’t ever apply undiluted ACV directly to your skin.

•Don’t even apply ACV to the skin any more than twice per day.

2. Turmeric

Ancient cultures, particularly those in the Eastern hemisphere, have used Turmeric as a skincare agent for thousands of years. The bright yellow spice is renowned for its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory components. Many studies suggest that turmeric can combat hyperpigmentation, signs of aging, and oily skin.

Do:

•Use in a face mask
A face mask is the easiest way to reap the benefits of turmeric for your skin. Combine 1 tbsp. of turmeric with 3 tbsps. of whole milk and a 1/2 tsp of honey. Mix until a paste is formed and apply generously onto your face. Let it sit for 20 minutes before washing off.

•Use to fight wrinkles
According to dermatologist Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, MD, “Turmeric has anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and antioxidant effects, which can benefit the skin in many ways.” These benefits can help diminish wrinkles and fine lines by increasing skin elasticity.

•Use to lighten dark spots
Turmeric contains high amounts of the bioactive component curcumin, which has been known to treat hyperpigmentation.

Don’t
•Don’t be alarmed if you notice a slight yellow tint on your face after using turmeric.

This is a normal and common occurrence that can be rectified by following up your turmeric mask with your usual facial cleanser.

3. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is more than just a breakfast favorite! Numerous studies have cited the benefits of adding oatmeal to your skincare regimen. Most notably, oatmeal is recognized as a natural exfoliant and a treatment for dry skin and dry skin-related conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis.

The best oatmeal to use on your skin is colloidal oatmeal. Colloidal oatmeal is oatmeal that has been finely ground, making it gentle enough to use topically.

Do:

•Add to a bath soak
Pour one cup of colloidal oatmeal into a bath of lukewarm water. When the water takes on a milky white shade, the oatmeal has been dissolved. Soak in the mixture for at least 20 minutes to find relief for dry, flaky skin.

•Use as a face mask

Combine equal parts colloidal oatmeal and water until a paste is formed. Scrub the face with the paste, sloughing away dead skin cells. Rinse off and apply another layer of the paste, this time letting it sit for at least 10 minutes. Rinse off and then moisturize as normal.

Don’t:

•Attempt to use unground oatmeal on the face. Unground oatmeal flakes can be abrasive when applied topically, especially to those with sensitive skin.

Which of these superfoods will you be adding to your skincare routine, #SweatSisters? Let us know in the comments below!