15 Beauty Hacks Using Foods From Your Kitchen

Nowadays we reach for complicated cosmetics that are filled with chemicals and compounds we don't recognize — and can't even pronounce — and these fancy products can easily cripple a bank account.

With all the crazy things we put our skin though each day, though, is it so silly to assume that putting even crazier things on our skin won't actually help it? 

Some ingredients such as eggs, olive oil, lemons, and even potatoes can naturally improve the look and feel of our skin and hair with natural properties. Some ingredients are hydrating and toning, while others fight acne and reduce the size and appearance of pores.

Find natural and effective replacements for a complicated beauty routine in the kitchen, and try these amazing food-based beauty hacks for yourself.

Apple cider vinegar is antibacterial and antiseptic; the malic acid and natural amino acids help to balance pH levels and calm skin. A mixture of one part vinegar and four parts water makes an excellent toner. You can even dab the vinegar directly on problem areas to help acne, redness, and irritations.

Avocados are known for their moisturizing properties, so for ultra-soft hands, try this food-based treatment: Mix one tablespoon lemon juice (for aromatic purposes), one egg white, and two tablespoons rolled oats with a fourth of a pitted avocado. Massage onto hands and let sit for 20 minutes.

This is a well-known beauty hack to reduce eye puffiness and redness, but does it really work? It turns out that diet is both the biggest culprit and remedy for puffy eyes, but cool cucumbers on the eyes will indeed help to lower swelling and quell irritations. 

Whip egg whites into a frothy mousse and apply to hair for rich and luscious-looking locks with healthy, hydrated follicles. 

The citric acid in lemon juice works as an exfoliant, and it has natural antibacterial qualities to help vanquish acne. The astringency shrinks pores and balances pH levels. Just squeeze fresh lemon juice on to a cotton pad and apply to face before bed. 

Yogurt can help to rejuvenate and soften skin; it is especially helpful after sunburns to help calm skin. Plus, it's antibacterial (see ya, zits!). Experts report that plain yogurt can also ward off discoloration and premature aging. For this mask, mix one tablespoon honey (try manuka honey), one tablespoon yogurt, and two tablespoons water. This recipe also calls for crushed rose petals and rose water, which have their own antibacterial properties.

Satisfy your sweet tooth through osmosis, and uncover fresh new skin with a homemade sugar exfoliate. Mix sugar into a hydrating base of coconut or olive oil and emulsify in a blender. You can also add other aromatics and beneficial food-based ingredients such as coffee, cucumber, and lavender. But be wary of large, coarse crystals that can end up irritating the skin and create micro-tears.