Sep 13, 2008

Ginger sets you on fire



Want to be as hot as Ginger Spice?

Ginger contains antioxidant properties that even outperform commonly used chemical antioxidants. Ginger's proven antioxidant properties make it a positive anti-aging ingredient to your skin !

Ginger has been known to stimulate blood circulation. As you might have known, blood is the body's main internal transport system and proper circulation is vital for and radiant skin.

If you want your circulation to race like F1 cars, you can try eating 1 chunk of it :)

Some have used ginger on their lips to make it fuller. Just be careful not to use too much ginger at one go as it can cause mild irritation in delicate skin..



Off the Kitchen
Ginger bath
1. Mix 2 cups of sea salt, 1 cup of dry milk together in a mixing bowl, 1/4 cup of finely grated ginger and the few drops of essential oils of your choice.
2. Fill the bathtub with warm water, pour in the ginger pieces. Stir to be sure the essential oils are evenly mixed with the warm water.
3. Soak and relax.

Sep 10, 2008

Kill your strawberry with strawberries



Have a nose with blackheads so annoying that it has become a strawberry? A strawberry may help, literally ;)

Heard of AHAs?

Well, strawberries contain alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), which help to lift off dead skin cells, unplug pores and remove blackheads.
Your skin becomes youthful as a result.

They are also rich in antioxidants like ellagic acid and Vitamin C.

Antioxidants are so important because they essentially terminate cell damaging reactions in the body, slowing down the aging process in your skin.

Ready to roll? Look out for recipes under "Off the Kitchen"

Off the Kitchen
Strawberry scrub
1. Mash 8-9 strawberries into a pulp.
2. Add 3 tablespoons of honey and mix.
3. Apply directly to the skin, rinse off after a few minutes.

Strawberry mask
1. Mix 8-10 strawberries
2. Add 2 tablespoons of apricot or olive oil
3. Add 1 teaspoon of coarse salt ( Kosher Salt, or Sea Salt) and apply.

Sep 9, 2008

An apple a day keeps the dermatologist away



Want to get rid of excessive oil or improve your acne problem? Here comes the apple!

Acne sufferers are often advised to use astringents if they have oily skin to close up their facial pores and reduce the amount of oil on the face.

If you have acne problems, apples are right for you.

Why? Because apples contain astringent that helps to control oil. Astringent is a chemical that tends to shrink or constrict pores.


Moreover, fruit acids from apples can attack the top layer of skin, removing dead skin cells and excess oil.

By removing this dirt and oil from your pores, it becomes easier for your skin to breathe, promoting much healthier skin.

Removing dirt and oil also helps to eliminate acne, and prevent future acne break outs.

"Off the Kitchen" will introduce apple solutions, which you can create easily in your kitchen.
Apple cider vinegar also helps to ensure an optimal pH balance for your skin and lime juice, like apple juice, is also a good astringent.


Off the Kitchen
Apple and lime mask
1. Mix 1/2 cup of apple juice and 1/2 cup of lime juice
2. Apply for 15 minutes and then rinsed with cold-water.

Apple cider vinegar cleanser
1. Mix 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with small amount of distilled water.
2. Apply for 15 minutes.
This can effectively cleanse your skin making it look and feel more healthy and youthful.

Sep 6, 2008

Miracle Cucumber



Do you remember movies that show women bundling up their hair and applying all sorts of skincare products on their faces? - especially slices of cucumbers when the postman came knocking on their doors?

What's so powerful of cucumbers?


Firstly, cucumber is 95% water >>source. Therefore, it is important to include them in your hydrating regime.


When you place slices of cucumber on your eyes, its hydrating effect helps to reduce puffiness of tired eyes with its cooling powers.


Some say wrinkles are reduced as cucumber hydrates the dry skin. Try it and see for yourself :)


The following, "Off the Shelves", will save you a lot of time. I'll be introducing some products which are suitable for natural skincare.


Off the Shelves
Coola Face SPF 30 Cucumber

  • a SPF moisturizing product
  • protects skin from the sun's harmful rays
  • keeps skin hydrated
  • includes antioxidant ingredients like Vitamins A, C, D, and E, Zinc and Cucumber essence
  • Paraben-free

Ole Henriksen Balancing Cucumber Face Tonic

  • a skin brightening toner
  • helps calm, renew and soften dry, sensitive skin
  • includes Cucumber essence, extracts of Chamomile and Ginseng
  • Paraben-free

Do note that you should always observe your skin's reaction towards any ingredients applied. If irriations or rashes occur, stop using the ingredients.


Have fun hydrating your skin!