Skin diseases might be more prevalent than previously thought, with research ranking them as the fourth most common cause of human illness. It is no wonder people would explore anything to achieve a flawless complexion.
Here are some surprising remedies that are actually effective.
- Use of urine
Also known as urotherapy or “pee facials”, this at-home treatment involves a person collecting their urine, dabbing it on a cloth or piece of cotton wool, and wiping it across their face. It is then left to dry and rinsed away with water. In fact, chances are that you are already using skin care products that contain urine in synthetic form.
Urine contains urea, which has the effect of soothing dry and itchy skin. Urea also has amazing ability to keep the skin moist, thus reversing the damaging effects of dehydrated skin. It’s an ancient Eastern tradition, believed to heal external ailments using the body’s natural antibodies released in our urine, which is “sterile, antimicrobial, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
However, you must use urine immediately to avoid bacteria contamination. Do not try this if you’re prone to urinary tract infections, have diabetes, or take oral medications, which can react with the skin in unexpected ways.
2. Snake serum
The thought of lathering snake venom on the skin is in itself cringe-worthy. But the end result will be worth the trouble. When infused into beauty products, venom clears puffiness, dark circles and wrinkles. Venom is a snake’s main form of defense.
The venom has the effect of paralysing the prey’s muscles. The ability to freeze muscles makes venom an anti-ageing wonder. Used in synthetic form, snake venom freezes wrinkles creating a smooth complexion. Acids found in the venom leave the skin looking plump and hydrated.
3. Semen
Semen contains a powerful antioxidant known as sperminide that has an even greater effectiveness than Vitamin E. The compound is believed to smooth skin, diminish wrinkles and prevent acne.
Semen is also rich in protein and zinc both of which can tighten pores and slow the aging process.
A word of caution in case you decide to slather semen on your face, the body fluid is capable of transmitting Sexually Transmitted Infections.
4. Breast milk
Breast milk is not just good for the baby; it can effectively give you a flawless skin. It contains Lauric acid, which can help treat acne owing to its antiviral and antifungal properties. It can also be used as a facial cleanser.
5. Bee venom
The bee venom ingredient works by ‘tricking’ your skin into thinking that it has been stung. As a defence mechanism, your body starts to increase the blood flow in the face — treating the area with fresh oxygen and nutrients that stimulate the production of natural collagen and elastin, as well.
The increased collagen and elastin levels generate new skin cells, which help in lessening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, ultimately having an anti-ageing effect. Even Queen Camilla, attested to the effectiveness of this remedy.
Some years back, she reportedly used bee face mask to slow down aging. Good thing is that you do not need to be stung to achieve a glowing skin. Purified form of bee venom is infused into some beauty products.
6. Goat milk
Goat’s milk is rich in lactic acid, which removes dead cells from the skin’s surface leaving it feeling smoother and looking younger. It contains Vitamin A, which is effective in repairing damaged skin tissue. Additionally, the cream present in goat milk helps moisturise dry skin.
7. Aspirin
Besides being good at relieving pain and thinning blood, aspirin has more to offer. The drug contains salicylic acid that helps remove excess oil and get rid of dead cells on the skin.
The acid is used in some skin care products, but one can make a Do it Yourself (DIY) aspirin mask by crushing the tablets and mixing with water to make a paste, applying on the skin and rinsing it after 10 minutes.
8. Sex
One sure way of burning calories is by exercising that includes breaking a sweat during in between the sheets. Sex increases the flow of blood to the skin giving it a noticeable glow.
What’s more, during an orgasm, the body releases love hormone, oxytocin that counters the effects of stress hormone cortisol. This in turn decreases inflammation throughout the body including the skin.
9. Snail mucin
The slimy fluid that snails leave behind is no doubt disgusting. But mucin, the thick fluid that snails excrete to protect themselves is good for the skin. It hydrates, reduces wrinkles and scars and slows aging.
When combined with aloe vera and silicon to make beauty products, the mucin promises younger-looking skin. Mucin helps heal dry skin by sealing in moisture.
10. Pumpkin
There is more to pumpkin than just food and Halloween. Packed with vitamins B, C, E, minerals and beta-carotene a diet rich in pumpkins can promote glowing skin.
Folate and niacin compounds found in pumpkins increase cell renewal and improve blood circulation. Pumpkin can be applied directly to the skin in masks, peels and creams.
