In case you weren't aware, kale is a big effing deal these days. Whether you're drinking it as a juice or massaging it for a salad, it's no longer just a mere garnish crowding your plate or even the main ingredient in your entrée. Aside from naming their babies after the leafy vegetable, people are turning kale into nail polishes and facial serums because it's that good for your body. If you're not totally convinced that kale is the next big beauty ingredient, perhaps you should think again.
My argument is as follows: Kale is packed with vitamins A, C, E and K, which are all hardworking anti-aging agents. It also has anti-inflammatory benefits that help you stay less bloated and can prevent puffiness in the face. What's more is that it's loaded with minerals, like magnesium and calcium, all of which are completely necessary for healthy skin. It's also got copper, which boosts the synthesis of melanin (a pigment that protects your skin from the sun). Basically, it's a powerhouse. And in addition to using it to make a delicious Caesar salad, you can also add it to your basic beauty routine. Here are 5 simple beauty DIYs that you can do at home to incorporate kale into your regimen.
FACE MASK
The next time you make a juice with your leafy greens, save some and make this face mask from Acne Skin Site too. When you combine the nutrients found in both spinach and kale, you can create a concoction that can have the same effect on your skin as botox does, only natural. Spinach and kale are specifically rich in chlorophyll, enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients that will leave your skin glowing. Combine the juice with olive oil and heavy cream to create a green moisturizing mask that will hydrate your skin without clogging your pores.
SCRUB
Have a bad case of dry skin? Mince up some kale leaves, add some vegetable shortening or body lotion and create a thick paste. Right before you hop out of the shower, slather the kale paste all over your body and let it set for 15 minutes. Rinse it off with warm water. Bye bye, dead skin cells.
WASH
If you have some extra kale lying around, toss in some honey and water to make a super cleansing face rinse. In a bowl, add the honey and water to a cup of chopped kale pieces. Blend the ingredients and then once you start to see a green liquid form, strain the remaining kale pieces and collect the juice in a separate bowl. After you've washed and dried your face, apply the liquid on your face. Leave it on for about 5 or 10 minutes, just long enough for it to dry. Then, rinse your face with cool water.
NAIL SOAK
If Nails, Inc. is adding kale to polishes, my guess is that it's really great for your nails. But that makes sense right? With everything kale can do to your skin and hair, it's no surprise that it can also strengthen your nail beds while moisturizing and conditioning. Why not soak them in a leafy kale mixture, too? Add a few drops of olive oil into a bowl. Grab a few small pieces of kale and finely mince them and add them in. Heat the mixture until it's warm, not hot. Soak your nails for about five minutes and then wipe them off. For an even deeper soak, wear gloves overnight to really lock in the moisture.
EYE CREAM
Blogger Candy Apples came up with a brilliant recipe for a DIY creamy green eye treatment to battle dark under eye circles. Instead of just using spinach, I suggest adding some kale to it. It'll double the anti-inflammatory and moisturizing agents, while still being gentle on your skin.
