I’m a self-proclaimed natural beauty connoisseur and it’s all because of my mom. Growing up, she would always be working on a face or hair mask that she picked up from her grandma and we would sit around the kitchen table and talk. And when it came to avocados, not only would she slip a slice or two in our salads, she would put it in our hair and the ends that were formerly mercilessly broken by heat and pulling and tugging, were suddenly shiny and repaired. And let’s not forget about how freaking awesome guacamole is.
Avocados are probably one of the greatest fruits -that moonlights as a vegetable- to ever exist. It’s like nature decided to reward us for all the terrible things it puts us through -earthquakes, tornados, and brussel sprouts-, so it gave us the miracle that is the avocado. You can basically slather them on top of anything and it will taste 110 times better. But there’s no need for me to remind you of this, because I know you know that avocados are basically the Oprah of fruits. Instead, I’m here to guide you through the many different ways you can use avocados to magically improve your health, skin, hair and soul.
HEALTH
In case you needed another reason to eat avocados -other than their amazing flavour-, I’m here with breaking news: avocados are unbelievably nutritious. For starters, they contain more potassium than bananas, they’re loaded with heart-healthy monounsaturated fatty acids, and fiber. Not to mention, they can lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels and may help prevent cancer. Oh, and let’s not forget that avocados are a weight loss friendly food. Yeah. So, go forth and browse Pinterest so you can eat as many avocados as your little hearts desire.
SKIN
By now, I’m sure you heard all the wonders about coconut oil and what it can do for you, but let’s talk about avocado oil for a second. It’s made by pressing the pulp of avocados, making it full of those healthy fats I mentioned above and nutrient-rich. Bursting with antioxidants and hope, this oil can save your skin. How? Well, here are a few ways:
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Makeup Remover: Pour a small amount of avocado oil onto a cotton pad and use to wipe away your makeup
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Chapped Lips: Rub a small amount of avocado oil on your lips after exfoliating to help heal or lock in the moisture.
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Homemade Face Mask: Everyone loves a good face mask. Mash half an avocado with 1-2 tablespoons of avocado oil for the ultimate hydrating face mask. Feel free to add honey, egg yolks or oatmeal depending on what your skin needs!
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Moisturizer: Trust me on this one. Since avocado oil tends to absorb faster than coconut oil, you can use it all over your body and it won’t leave you feeling greasy. Or you can dab a small amount underneath your eyes and help prevent fine lines. PS: Avocado oil promotes the production of collagen, making your skin look more youthful.
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Soften Dry Feet/Hands: Say goodbye to dry feet and hands due to the cold! Just massage avocado oil onto them.
HAIR
My praise for avocado oil only continues, here are a few helpful masks! If you need to:
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Help Grow and Strengthen Your Hair: Mix in olive oil, honey, egg whites and a small amount of avocado oil. Apply the mixture to your hair and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Rinse out with lukewarm water.
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Tame Fly-Aways: Rub 1-2 drops of avocado oil on your hands and rub them together to activate the oil and apply it on stubborn areas.
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Scalp Treatment: This has been a lifesaver for me, since my skin is not used to the dry winter air, and it probably won’t ever get used to it. if your scalp has been feeling particularly dry lately, massage a small amount of avocado oil into your scalp and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing out and continuing with your shampoo/conditioner routine.
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Tame Frizzy Hair: I have crazy, frizzy, wavy hair and I’ve found this mask works wonders. This is almost like a natural conditioner for your hair –avocado and olive oil both have amazing hydrating benefits, and avocado also has the good kind of fatty acids to help sooth frizziness. Mash up the avocado and add a splash of olive oil, whipping the two together. After shampooing your hair, apply the avocado mask to your hair, making sure to fully cover everything. Let sit for 30 minutes to an hour, and rinse thoroughly. You can then condition your hair to get rid of the avocado scent, and enjoy how soft and smooth your hair feels!
Avocados are the lipstick of fruits: everyone likes them and they go with everything – just with a few extra benefits.