Olive oil

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Homemade treatments can be very effective. Just remember: Whenever you use natural ingredients or ingredients from your fridge, you should always do a little patch test on your skin first. This way, you'll make sure you aren't too sensitive and won't react with an allergy or irritation. Here are a few home remedies to treat some common concerns:

Eye-Makeup Remover: Olive or Grapeseed Oil

If you run out of eye-makeup remover, look to your kitchen for the solution. Olive or grapeseed oil can be very effective for this purpose. These gentle natural oils break down the solids in mascara, and they nourish the delicate eye area at the same time. Personally, I also believe oil helps condition the lashes and makes them grow longer and stronger, adding a little love to your lid!
Aspirin

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Lighteners and Brighteners: Aspirin Treatment
Aspirin contains acetylsalicylic acid, a salicylic-acid derivative. Salicylic acid is a very useful ingredient in combating acne, and it can also lighten pigmentation over time. If you have those issues, why not try this treatment once a week?

Heat up a few teaspoons of water. Add two whole aspirin tablets to the water, mash with a spoon and mix thoroughly. Massage the mixture onto the skin and leave it on for about 5 minutes. Repeated use of this treatment will lighten and brighten the skin over time.
Strawberries

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Lighteners and Brighteners: Strawberry Swipe
Cut a large strawberry in half lengthwise. Take a fork and poke at the flesh a little to awaken and release the juices. Swipe the strawberry across your face and massage the juice in a bit, using small circles. Leave it on for about 2 minutes and then rinse off with water. Strawberry juice contains natural skin lighteners that brighten spots over time. 

You can also do this a few times a week on your teeth for a gentle and safe teeth whitener!
Cucumbers

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Redness Relief: Cucumber Cooler
Grab a cucumber from the fridge and slice it into thin slices. Lie down and carefully place them on your face. The cucumber will reduce redness and swelling and calm any sensitivities.
Use ice water to minimize pores.

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Redness Relief: Ice Device
If you ever get out of the shower and are pretty red or notice your pores appear large, try this: Soak a washcloth in an ice bath for a few minutes. Take the washcloth out, wring out the excess water and lay the cloth across your face for about 5 minutes. You’ll notice your skin instantly looks much healthier and more refreshed. The cool temperature will also help close down pores and tighten the capillaries that cause redness. 

Keep Reading:
Make your own beauty products
More natural beauty recipes
Meet your skin's new best friend

Kate Somerville is a widely respected paramedical esthetician with more than 18 years experience in clinical skincare. She is the CEO and founder of Kate Somerville Skin Care and is the author of Complexion Perfection! Learn more at KateSomerville.com
Published 07/22/2010
As a reminder, always consult your doctor for medical advice and treatment before starting any program.