Don't let those roof rats eat all the citrus or throw away that near-expired milk, beauty buff. Those are valuable acids that can be used to make your face shine. These naturally acidic home remedies can brighten, tighten, smooth -- and they're probably already in your kitchen or backyard. Here are some common ingredients from strong to gentle that can concoct the perfect at-home peel.
Acetic Acid: This is commonly found in vinegar and is more acidic (about five percent) than many over-the-counter cosmetic products. The high acidity level makes skin inhospitable to blemish-causing bacteria. It also can help in the fading of surface scars and reducing redness due to acne.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Create a toner type of peel with one part ACV to four parts water. Rub it on your face for one to three minutes. Wash it off, pat skin dry, and follow with a moisturizer. Those with sensitive skin should be careful; this stuff is strong.
See also: Five Baking Soda Beauty Tips
Citric Acid Also known as Vitamin C, this can be found in tomatos, kiwi, and any citrus lying around your house. Citric acid is able to fight free-radical damage, even out the skin tone, and it can protect from sun damage by restoring skin's natural collagen.
Kiwi fruit: Peel and slice a ripe kiwi. Mash it up with a fork, and then rub the scrub on your face in a circular motion.
Tomato: Slice a tomato. Dip slices in sugar, and in the same circular motion use the sugar-coated tomato to gently exfoliate your face.
Citrus Fruit: Use the juice from one half of a piece of your desired citrus (lemon, lime, or grapefruit) and mix it with a dash of sugar. Using a cotton ball, apply in circular motions to your face.
Leave any of theses citrus remedies on for 10 minuets, then rinse with warm water and pat skin dry. Moisturize with coconut oil or your moisturizer of choice.
Lactic Acid Also called alpha-hydroxy acid, this can be found in full-fat dairy products. The acid in dairy helps to speed up cell turnover, brighten a dull complexion, restore skin's moisture because of its natural fat content. This is a great alternative to sugar or salt scrubs, which may be too abrasive for people who suffer from eczema, psoriasis, or have sensitive skin.
Whole Milk: Add a gallon of whole milk to a bath tub full of warm water and soak. If you prefer a fragranced bath, add 10 to 20 drops of an essential oil like lavender.
Sour Cream: Using your fingers, smooth one to two tablespoons of cool, full-fat sour cream in a thin layer over your face and neck, avoiding the eye and lip areas. Wait seven to 10 minutes, then remove the mask with a warm wet washcloth. Splash skin with water to remove any left over residue and pat dry.
