Raid the kitchen

This season if you want to be beautiful, it's a great idea to start with things at home. We suggest these ingredients for glowing skin...

Argan oil: Women from Morroco swear by this, as it treats wrinkles, burns, acne and even Psoriasis. Science is still catching up but argan is extremely rich in linoleic acid, which applied topically is proven to contain vitamin E, an anti-ager that may reduce scarring as well.

Aloe Vera: From drinking aloe vera juice to applying the gel on the face, this plant has medical values. Its calming and restorative properties can heal damaged skin 72 hours faster, say experts.

Baking Soda: Yes, you might think it is harsh, but baking soda can wash your sink, and also whiten your teeth, banish your bad breath, and get rid of bad smells.

Coconut Oil: As children, we were all forced to apply coconut oil on our locks.  While we cringed over it, now we understand its worth. Coconut oil penetrates in the skin and prevents water loss and replaces lipids that deplete with aging, it’s a double winner.

Green Tea: Several studies have shown that green tea reduces the effects of UV damage, enhances wound healing, and treats acne. Green tea is also anti-inflammatory and can help reduce the redness associated with rosacea.

Honey: Before we had creams and gels, there was honey. Years ago, it was used in wound dressing to accelerate healing. It’s no surprise then that science says it helps. Its topical application also demonstrates antibacterial action, and helps prevent scarring.

Olive oil: Already proven to be a powerful antioxidant in food, olive oil may play an exciting role in reducing DNA damage in skin, too.

Vitamin C: How much would you would love to soak your face in orange juice to get the topical benefits of this powerful antioxidant? Vitamin C works as a good natural cream or serum which in its stable form helps the skin fight free-radical damage, reduces redness, stimulates wound healing, and helps minimise fine wrinkles.

Tea tree oil: A study found tea tree oil effective in treating pimples, acne and more.