Strange but Useful Natural Beauty Tips that work

Hello and welcome to our brand-new blog dedicated to uncovering the beauty secrets of the past! If you've ever been intrigued by the idea of tapping into ancient wisdom to enhance your skincare routine, then you're in the right place.

At hel-lenas beauty, we're passionate about exploring the rich tapestry of old wives' tales from cultures around the world and discovering the timeless beauty rituals passed down through generations. From the shores of Greece to the mountains of Japan, every culture has its own unique traditions and folklore when it comes to achieving radiant skin and luscious locks.

But what exactly are old wives' tales, and why are they worth exploring in today's modern world of skincare? Well, for starters, these age-old anecdotes are more than just superstitions – they often contain nuggets of wisdom rooted in centuries of trial and error. While some may seem far-fetched or downright bizarre, many old wives' tales are backed by science or contain elements of truth that have stood the test of time.

So, whether you're a skincare enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about the mysteries of old wives' tales, we invite you to join us on this journey of discovery. Together, let's unlock the secrets of the past and unlock the door to timeless beauty!

Garlic for weak nails:

Old wives' tales often contain a mix of folklore, tradition, and sometimes surprisingly effective advice, have you heard your grandmother saying that if your fingernails are weak, apply garlic to them this is because Did you know that fortified enamels contain a component of garlic? You can create your own natural enamel, by grinding a clove of garlic into a  powder, you can then put it on your transparent enamel, (weak nails will be a thing of the past in a few weeks). Another way to achieve this goal is by rubbing a lemon cap over your nails every day.

Mayonnaise, eggs and olive oil for better hair

The use of mayonnaise, eggs, and olive oil for hair treatment is not specific to one country but rather a practice found in various cultures around the world. However, this particular combination of ingredients is often associated with DIY hair masks and treatments in Western countries, including the United States, Canada, and parts of Europe. Mayonnaise contains eggs and oil (usually soybean or canola oil), making it a rich source of protein and fatty acids, both of which can nourish and moisturize the hair. Eggs are high in protein, which can help strengthen hair strands and promote hair growth. Olive oil is rich in antioxidants and moisturizing properties, making it effective in conditioning and softening the hair. The combination of mayonnaise, eggs, and olive oil is believed to provide deep conditioning benefits, improve hair texture, and add shine. Many people use this DIY hair treatment to address issues such as dryness, frizz, and damage from heat styling or chemical treatments. While this hair treatment is popular in Western countries, variations of similar treatments using natural ingredients can be found in other parts of the world as well. In many cultures, natural remedies and traditional practices for hair care have been passed down through generations, often utilizing ingredients readily available in local environments, It may not be the most pleasant thing in the world, but to  Make a mask add two tablespoons of mayonnaise, two egg whites and a spoonful of oil, apply it from the root to the tips. Let it sit for 20 minutes and rinse it. You will get super hydrated and nourished hair!

Japan - Camellia Oil for Hair: In Japan, camellia oil has been used for centuries to promote healthy hair. It's believed to nourish the scalp, strengthen hair follicles, and add shine to the hair. Modern research supports the use of camellia oil for hair care, as it contains antioxidants and fatty acids that can moisturize and protect the hair. Japanese people use camellia oil as a key ingredient in homemade hair masks. They would mix camellia oil with other nourishing ingredients such as honey, egg yolk, or avocado to create a luxurious treatment for the hair. This helps to deeply condition the hair, repair damage, and improve overall hair health. people also use camellia oil for scalp massage to promote scalp health and stimulate hair growth, apply a few drops of camellia oil to your fingertips and then gently massage it into the scalp in circular motions, This helps to improve circulation, reduce dryness and flakiness, and nourish the hair follicles.  Whether used as a pre-shampoo treatment, leave-in conditioner, or styling aid, camellia oil is valued for its lightweight texture, non-greasy feel, and ability to nourish and protect the hair without weighing it down.

India - Turmeric Face Masks: Turmeric has long been used in traditional Indian skincare routines. It's believed to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it effective in treating acne, reducing redness, and brightening the complexion. Turmeric face masks are popular for achieving glowing skin in India.    Indians often mix turmeric powder with plain yogurt to create a nourishing and brightening face mask, alternately a popular combination is turmeric powder mixed with besan or gram flour, Besan is known for its cleansing and exfoliating properties, making it an excellent base for a face mask. When combined with turmeric, this mask can help remove impurities, unclog pores, and promote smoother, clearer skin. Apply the turmeric face mask to clean, dry skin, using your fingers or a brush to evenly distribute the mixture, then leave the mask on for about 10-15 minutes to allow the ingredients to work their magic, the mask is gently rinsed off with lukewarm water, followed by a moisturizer to lock in hydration.                                                The natural ingredients used in these masks are gentle and suitable for all skin types, making them a versatile and accessible option for skincare enthusiasts.

Greece - Olive Oil Cleansing: In Greece, olive oil has been used for skincare for centuries. It's believed to cleanse the skin gently while moisturizing and protecting it from environmental damage. Olive oil contains antioxidants and vitamins that can nourish the skin and maintain its elasticity.                                                    You would start by applying a small amount of olive oil directly to the dry skin area, Olive oil is rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, making it an effective cleanser for removing dirt, makeup, and impurities from the skin, After applying the olive oil gently massage it in using circular motions, This will help to break down makeup and loosen debris from the pores, allowing the oil to penetrate and cleanse the skin thoroughly. For a deeper cleanse, follow the oil massage with a steam treatment, wet a clean washcloth with warm water and place it over your face, allowing the steam to open up the pores and further facilitate cleansing, After massaging the olive oil into the skin, use a warm, damp washcloth to gently remove the oil and impurities, The washcloth can be rinsed and wrung out as needed to ensure thorough removal, follow up with a gentle foaming cleanser or micellar water to remove any remaining traces of oil and impurities, This step helps to ensure that the skin is thoroughly cleansed without leaving behind a greasy residue, After cleansing, pat dry with a towel and follow up with a moisturizer to lock in hydration. Olive oil can also be used as a moisturizer for the skin, providing additional nourishment and hydration.  It's suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin, making it a versatile and widely loved cleansing method.

Egypt - Milk Baths: Cleopatra, the ancient Egyptian queen, was famous for her beauty rituals, including milk baths, Milk contains lactic acid, which is a gentle exfoliant that can help remove dead skin cells and reveal smoother, softer skin. Milk baths are still popular in Egypt and other cultures for achieving radiant skin.          Egyptians would start by filling a bathtub with warm water, then add fresh milk or powdered milk to the bathwater, The amount of milk used can vary depending on personal preference and the desired richness of the bath, they would then enhance the milk bath by adding other natural ingredients such as honey, essential oils, or flower petals. Honey is known for its moisturizing and antibacterial properties, while essential oils can provide aromatherapy benefits and enhance relaxation. Once the milk bath is prepared, Egyptians would immerse themselves in the bathwater and soak for a period of time, typically around 20-30 minutes. During this time, the skin absorbs the nutrients and moisturizing properties of the milk, leaving it feeling soft and hydrated. After soaking, you would rinse off any residue from the milk bath with warm water. It's essential to rinse thoroughly to prevent any milk residue from remaining on the skin, which could cause irritation or a sticky feeling. follow up with a moisturizer to lock in hydration. This step is crucial for maintaining soft, supple skin after the bath. This ancient skincare ritual continues to be cherished today for its luxurious and therapeutic quality 

Brazil - Coffee Ground Scrubs: In Brazil, coffee ground scrubs are a popular beauty treatment. Coffee grounds are believed to exfoliate the skin, reduce the appearance of cellulite, and improve circulation. The caffeine in coffee grounds can also temporarily tighten and firm the skin. Brazilians mix used or freshly ground coffee grounds with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, olive oil, or sweet almond oil, to create a scrubbing paste, Coffee grounds are naturally abrasive, making them effective in sloughing off dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover. you can also enhance the scrub by adding other natural ingredients such as sugar, sea salt, honey, or essential oils These additional ingredients can provide additional exfoliation, hydration, or aromatherapy benefits, depending on the desired outcome. coffee grounds scrub are applied to damp skin, focusing on areas that tend to be rough or dry, such as elbows, knees, and feet. After using the coffee grounds scrub, follow up with a moisturizer to lock in hydration and further nourish the skin.

China - Pearl Powder for Skin Brightening: In traditional Chinese medicine, pearl powder has been used for its skincare benefits. It's believed to promote skin regeneration, brighten the complexion, and even out skin tone. Pearl powder contains calcium, amino acids, and trace minerals that can help improve skin texture and luminosity. Chinese people incorporate pearl powder into homemade face masks to brighten and revitalize the skin. They mix pearl powder with other natural ingredients such as honey, yogurt, or cucumber juice to create a nourishing and brightening mask. These masks can help even out skin tone, reduce dullness, and promote a radiant complexion. Pearl powder is also incorporated  into facial massage techniques to stimulate circulation and promote skin brightening. They mix pearl powder with a carrier oil such as jojoba oil or almond oil and use it to massage the face in upward and in a circular motion. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), pearl powder has been used for centuries to promote skin health and beauty from the inside out. It is believed to nourish the liver and kidneys, which in turn can benefit the skin by reducing inflammation, promoting detoxification, and improving circulation. While pearl powder may have skincare benefits, but there is limited evidence that pearl powders have beneficial effects on liver and kidney health.

Mexico - Cactus Extract for Hydration: In Mexico, cactus extract, particularly from the prickly pear cactus, is used in skincare products for its hydrating properties. Cactus extract is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and amino acids, making it effective in moisturizing and soothing the skin. Mexicans create DIY face masks using cactus extract and other natural ingredients. For example, they combine cactus extract with honey, yogurt, or aloe vera gel to create a hydrating and soothing mask. These masks can help boost skin hydration, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy glow, Cactus extract is also valued for its soothing properties, particularly in treating sunburns. Mexicans apply cactus extract or aloe vera gel, another natural ingredient derived from cactus, to sunburned skin to help alleviate pain, reduce redness, and promote healing.                  Cactus extract is well-suited for hydrating the skin due to its lightweight texture, high water content, and ability to lock in moisture. Whether used topically or consumed internally, cactus extract provides a natural and effective way to keep the skin hydrated, nourished, and healthy.

Russia - Birch Tree Tar for Hair Health. In Russia, birch tree tar has been traditionally used for hair care. It's believed to strengthen hair follicles, reduce dandruff, and promote scalp health. Birch tar contains compounds that have antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it effective in treating various scalp conditions. Birch tar is extracted from the bark of birch trees through a process of dry distillation. Once obtained, it can be diluted with water or mixed with carrier oils to create a solution suitable for hair application. Alternately to make a hair mask Birch tar can be mixed with other hair-nourishing ingredients Russians combine birch tar with natural oils like olive oil, coconut oil, or castor oil to create a conditioning treatment for the hair and scalp. This mask is typically applied to damp hair, massaged into the scalp, and left on for a period of time before rinsing out thoroughly. Russians believe that birch tar can stimulate hair growth and prevent hair loss, While scientific evidence supporting this claim is limited, birch tar's antiseptic properties may help maintain a healthy scalp environment, which is conducive to hair growth.

It's important to note that birch tar can be potent and may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. Therefore, it's advisable to perform a patch test before using birch tar products extensively and to discontinue use if any adverse reactions occur. Additionally, pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before using birch tar products.

Korea - Rice Water for Brightening Skin: In Korea, rice water has been used as a beauty treatment for centuries. Rice water is the starchy water leftover after rinsing rice, and it's believed to have skin-brightening properties. It contains vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that can nourish the skin, even out skin tone, and improve complexion.to make a face wash start by rinsing uncooked rice thoroughly to remove any impurities, Then, soak the rice in water for several hours or overnight, During this time, the rice releases its nutrients into the water, creating a milky liquid known as rice water. After soaking, strain the rice water to remove the rice grains, leaving behind a clear, milky liquid, use the strained rice water as a facial rinse or toner soak a cotton pad or cloth in the rice water and gently pat it onto clean skin, focusing on areas of concern such as dullness or uneven skin tone. After applying the rice water to the skin, allow it to air dry or gently pat it into the skin until absorbed, Rice water has a lightweight texture that quickly absorbs into the skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and hydrated. After using rice water as a facial rinse or toner, follow up serums and a moisturizer, Korean people often incorporate rice water into their skincare routine on a regular basis, using it once or twice a day for maximum benefits. Rice water is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, making it a versatile and widely loved skincare ingredient in Korea. 

Sweden - Lingonberry Face Masks: In Sweden, lingonberries are not only enjoyed as a delicious fruit but also used in skincare. Lingonberry face masks are believed to provide antioxidant protection, reduce inflammation, and hydrate the skin. Lingonberries are rich in vitamin C and polyphenols, which can help boost collagen production and fight free radical damage. To make a lingonberry face mask mash fresh or frozen lingonberries into a puree and apply to skin or if you would like extra hydration, mix with yogurt or honey. Yogurt contains lactic acid, which can help exfoliate dead skin cells and brighten the complexion. Honey is a natural humectant, meaning it helps draw moisture into the skin, leaving it soft and hydrated, leave the mask on for 10-15 minutes then rinse with lukewarm water pat dry and finish with your favourite moisturizer (WARNING) Lingonberries can leave a slight stain, so it's essential to remove the mask completely.

Italy - Olive Oil and Sugar Scrub: Italians have long incorporated olive oil into their skincare routines. Olive oil mixed with sugar creates a gentle exfoliating scrub that removes dead skin cells, moisturizes the skin, and leaves it soft and supple. The combination of olive oil's moisturizing properties and sugar's exfoliating action helps achieve smoother, glowing skin. Italians would start by mixing together olive oil and granulated sugar to create a scrubbing paste. Olive oil serves as the moisturizing base, while sugar provides gentle exfoliation to remove dead skin cells and reveal smoother, more radiant skin underneath. The ratio of olive oil to sugar can vary depending on personal preference and the desired consistency of the scrub, apply the olive oil and sugar scrub to damp skin, focusing on areas that tend to be rough or dry, such as elbows, knees, and feet.      gently massage the scrub into the skin using circular motions, allowing the sugar crystals to slough off dead skin cells and promote circulation, continue to massage the scrub into the skin for a few minutes, paying extra attention to rough or calloused areas.  rinse off the scrub with warm water, using a washcloth or your hands to gently remove any remaining residue. It's essential to rinse thoroughly to ensure all traces of the scrub are removed from the skin, leaving it clean and refreshed. After the exfoliating process is complete  pat dry the skin with a towel and follow up with a moisturizer to lock in hydration. Olive oil provides natural moisture to the skin, leaving it soft, supple, and nourished after exfoliation. These are beloved skincare tradition in Italy, valued for their effectiveness in promoting soft, radiant skin. The natural ingredients used in these scrubs are gentle and suitable for all skin types, making them a versatile and accessible option for achieving beautiful, glowing skin.

Thailand - Tamarind for Skin Brightening: Tamarind, a tropical fruit native to Thailand, is used in skincare for its skin-brightening properties. Tamarind contains alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), which exfoliate the skin, lighten dark spots, and improve skin texture. Tamarind pulp or extracts are often used in face masks and scrubs to achieve a brighter complexion. Homemade face mask are made by extracting the pulp from ripe tamarind pods, mixed with other natural ingredients such as honey, yogurt, or rice flour to create a paste. This mask is then applied to the face and left on for about 10-15 minutes before being rinsed off with lukewarm water, to make a toner mix tamarind juice with witch hazel, rose water, or green tea apply to the skin with a cotton pad or alternately use a  spritzed bottle and then apply onto the face. Tamarind's natural acids help to exfoliate and brighten the skin, while its antioxidants help protect against environmental damage. Tamarind is a versatile and effective ingredient for skin brightening in Thailand, valued for its natural exfoliating, brightening, and antioxidant properties. Whether used in homemade face masks, scrubs, cleansers, toners, or spot treatments, tamarind can help promote a brighter, more radiant complexion with regular use. 

Nigeria - Shea Butter for Moisturizing: Shea butter is a staple in Nigerian beauty rituals. It's extracted from the nuts of the shea tree and is highly moisturizing and nourishing for the skin. Shea butter is rich in fatty acids and vitamins, making it effective in hydrating dry skin, soothing irritation, and improving skin elasticity.   Nigerians often use pure, unrefined shea butter directly on the skin as a moisturizer. by scooping out a small amount of shea butter from the jar, warming it between their palms, and then applying it to dry areas of the body, such as elbows, knees, heels, and hands. Shea butter melts at body temperature, allowing it to absorb easily into the skin and provide deep hydration. Body and lip butters are also made by melting shea butter in a double boiler and then adding nourishing oils such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, or sweet almond oil. Once the mixture has cooled and solidified, it can be applied all over the body to moisturize and soften the skin.

Australia - Tea Tree Oil for Acne: Indigenous Australians have long used tea tree oil for its medicinal properties. Tea tree oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in treating acne and other skin conditions. It can help reduce acne-causing bacteria, soothe inflammation, and promote healing of blemishes. Tea tree oil can be applied directly to individual pimples as a spot treatment. To do this, dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil, such as jojoba oil or coconut oil, to reduce the risk of irritation. Dip a cotton swab into the diluted tea tree oil and apply it directly to the affected areas. Leave it on overnight and rinse off in the morning.

Worldwide-. Two cold spoons against dark circles

While the exact origin of this practice is unclear, it's likely that it emerged from the belief that cold temperature can constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling, which can help diminish the appearance of dark circles and puffiness. This remedy is easy to implement you simply chill two metal spoons in the refrigerator for a few minutes until they're cold, then place them over your closed eyelids for a brief period. The cold temperature of the spoons can help soothe and tighten the delicate skin around the eyes, reducing puffiness and temporarily lightening dark circles. Although using cold spoons can provide temporary relief, it's important to note that it's not a permanent solution for dark circles.

 

In our journey through beauty secrets from around the world, we've traversed continents and cultures, uncovering an abundance of natural remedies and traditional practices that have been cherished for generations.

From the Mediterranean's love affair with olive oil cleansing to India's time-honoured turmeric face masks, each region offers its own unique approach to skincare and haircare. Whether it's the nourishing properties of shea butter in Nigeria or the hydrating benefits of cactus extract in Mexico, these age-old rituals remind us of the power of nature to nurture and rejuvenate our bodies.

But it's not just about the ingredients—it's about the rituals and traditions that accompany them. From the serene milk baths of Egypt to the invigorating coffee ground scrubs of Brazil, each beauty practice carries with it a sense of cultural heritage and mindfulness.

As we draw our journey to a close, let's carry with us the wisdom of these beauty secrets and incorporate them into our own self-care routines. Whether it's indulging in a soothing milk bath or treating ourselves to a luxurious camellia oil hair treatment, let's celebrate the diversity of beauty rituals from around the world and find joy in nourishing both our bodies and our spirits.

And remember, beauty knows no borders—so let's continue to explore, learn, and embrace the rich tapestry of global beauty traditions that unite us all.

Here's to radiant skin, lustrous hair, and a world of beauty waiting to be discovered.