My abuelita always told me growing up that you don't need to spend a ton on products to look beautiful. As a result, I've always been very fascinated with natural beauty treatments you can whip up yourself at home. From oils to special seeds, here are a few beauty ingredients that we, our mamás, and abuelas all swear by!
Readmore ¿Qué más? 5 Super foods that will give you younger looking skin!
Venezuela
Venezolanas use flax seeds to create smooth, shiny curls. The seeds are boiled in hot water for about 5 minutes, then refrigerated for a few hours until it forms a syrup-like consistency. This paste is used like a hair gel to create and hold beautiful curls!
Dominican Republic
Women in the Dominican Republic maintain their long, healthy hair by massaging their scalps with coconut oil to stimulate hair growth and keep their strands shiny. I use it on my hair about once a week, and believe me it really works! Try Organix’s Anti-Breakage Serum with Coconut Milk. This nourishing formula includes a blend of weightless coconut oil, silk and keratin proteins that works to promote longer hair, repair damage and strengthen weak tresses.
Brazil
Wondering how Brazilian women maintain such great skin and amazing bods? They use oil from açaì berries, which hails from the Amazon rainforest in Brazil as both an anti-aging treatment and weight loss remedy. This super food includes antioxidants, amino acids and omega fatty acids that all work to slow down the aging process by boosting immune and metabolic functions. Try an at-home facial de açaì (açaì facial mask): Blend two cups of acai berry oil with 1 cup of oatmeal and a cup of honey in a small bowl. Spread the mixture all over your face and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Or try the Brazilian Peel by AHA. It’s a great at-home, professional peel that includes açaì and works to reduce fine lines and wrinkles!
Puerto Rico
Our managing editor says she grew up seeing her abuela use olive oil for everything! This rich oil is great for your hair, skin and nails. Apply and massage a generous amount on your body to get smooth, radiant skin. Or try c. Booth Italian Olive Oil Body Butter.
Mexico
In Mexico women use Mimosa tenuiflora (a plant that is grown in the southeastern part of the country) as an anti-aging remedy. It has been used since ancient Mayan times to treat dermatological problems and contains healing properties and natural anti-inflammatories that work to rejuvenate skin. Try Nuance Salma Hayek AM/PM Anti-Aging Super Cream.
Colombia
Colombianas are known for their amazing bodies and credit coffee as one of their little beauty secrets. Coffee grounds are used as a cellulite treatment in topical application. Combine a cup of coffee grounds with a cup of warm water and olive oil in a small bowl. Then apply the mixture to your skin and massage it on for a few minutes using your knuckles or a cellulite brush. This will increase circulation and help your body release toxins, which leads to less pesty cellulite!
Peru
The wonder grain quinoa was heavily used in the daily diets of ancient civilations in Peru, and it continues to be essential today. This healthy grain is rich in magnesium, vitamin A, E, D and F is still used by many Peruvian women for its anti-aging benefits. When combined in a facial mask, the quinoa flake leaves skin smooth, soft and nourished. Combine 6 oz of plain yogurt, 1/4 cup of quinoa grain powder, and olive oil in a small bowl. Apply the mixture to your face and expect beautiful radiant skin!
