Was reading on a blog some days ago about how people paid 25k upwards for a facial in places like Lagos and Abuja..I was like whaaaaa. . I'm all for spending on yourself, spoiling yourself once in a while and whatnot but 25 thousand naira to have my face prodded, peeled, massaged and cleansed, errr no sir, well, not now, maybe when pepper rest :D
So here we are, we that are money shy :),looking for cheap and easy alternatives. Yes glycolic acid chemical peel can be maDe at home using natural foods. If you studied chemistry, you'll know that glycolic acid is the smallest and most common alphahydroxy acid (AHAs)
It can be found in many common fruits that are sugary and vegetables as well but the most notable of them is sugar cane (ireke). Other fruits include pineaples, tomatoes, grapes, oranges and papaya or pawpaw.
Glycolic acid is an exfoliation that safely peels dead cells off and brings fresh new cells to the surface. This is good for those looking for ingredients for anti-aging. It also helps to even out discolouration of the skin like sunspots.
Not only is glycolic acid scarce,I mean they can only be gotten in spa's or ordered, they are also expensive, hence my need to show you how to make a natural for of it. And it's cheap, easy and ingredients are accessible.
First of all though,it would best if you too do some reading about this acid to know more about it.
Now that you have read about it,we can start the process of making the peel itself.
Ingredients
Pineapple
Paw paw
A blender
Knife
Bowl
Gelatin. A good substitute is agar( if you work in a health laboratory or you have friends who do,just ask them to help)
honey
microwave
Procedure
Cut the peels off the pineapple and paw paw
,then cut into chunks and put into a blender. Blend till it forms a paste.
I usually put on a sieve to get some juice out. Either to use for another homemade product or just to drink ;)
Add 2tbsp of gelatin into the mixture. The gelatin serves 2 purposes
1. To hold the blended fruit paste together for it doesn't slip and make a mess and
2. To give your skin some collagen which helps to maintain elasticity and also makes wrinkles disappear.
At this point, honey can be added into the mixture although honey is optional but we all know it's be befits so why not.
Heat the mixture for 45 seconds or till the gelatin melts depending on the heat intensity.
Put mixture in the fridge afterwards to cool and solidify the mixture.
When mixture has set,remove it from the refrigerator and apply to your face. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes.
After this time,gently peel off from your face.
It is advisable to use a moisturiser afterwards to lock in the goodness your skin just absorbed.
Remember to only put a thin layer so your pores won't be clogged and to store in a cool dry place or in the fridge so it won't melt.
