Cozy nights on the sofa, hot cider, snow lodge getaways… there’s plenty of reasons to love the chilly winter season!  But, one thing that we definitely don’t love is how dry our skin and hair seems to get this time of year. Cold temperatures, harsh winds, central heating, and less humidity in the air can leech vital moisture from your skin and hair, leaving you feeling dull, scratchy and generally less-than-your-best.

Luckily, help might be closer than you think. Many of your favourite delicious fridge and pantry items also offer powerful benefits as rescue treatments for your hair and skin. So, before you run out and spend a small fortune on fancy-brand products, why not try some of our favourite home remedies to return your hair and skin to its former moisture-rich glory.

For your hair:

Clean with Apple Cider Vinegar and Baking Soda:
Harsh chemical shampoos can strip hair of natural oils, so during the dry winter months why not try switching your shampoo with a gentle natural alternative? Baking soda and apple cider are two amazingly gentle astringents which will clean your hair and scalp while leaving those vital natural oils in place. Mix a tablespoon of baking soda into a cup of water, and apply to your hair. Let the baking soda sit for a few mins. Dilute a quarter cup of apple cider vinegar into a cup of water, and use to rinse the baking soda mixture out. At first, your hair may react to this gentle cleaning by producing more oil, but stick with it and before you know it your hair and scalp will adjust and balance out, leaving your hair glossy, vibrant and clean.

Treat with Coconut Oil:
Loaded with vitamin E, rich fatty acids and protein, coconut oil can help build hair strength, repair damage, and improve shine. It’s also a great natural treatment for dandruff! Simply melt a couple tablespoons of coconut oil in the microwave or in warm water and massage into your hair and scalp. Let it sit a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly. You can also use solid coconut oil to tame frizz and add shine by rubbing a little between your fingers to soften and applying to dry ends of hair.

For your skin:

Heal with Oatmeal, Milk and Honey:
Powdered oatmeal is a fantastic gentle exfoliant that also boasts anti-inflammatory properties and amino acids that help repair and heal skin. Milk is rich in fats and nutrients that can further help rejuvenate dry and damaged skin. Mix two tablespoons of oatmeal with two tablespoons of raw honey and two teaspoons of milk powder, and apply to your face with a cosmetics brush. Allow to sit on our skin for at least 15mins, and then rinse off with warm water. Follow with a moisturizer. Use this mask three or four times per week.

Hydrate with Coconut and Honey:
The saturated fats in coconut oil will nourish and moisturize your skin, while its antimicrobial properties can help to prevent breakouts – win! Honey also has strong antibacterial properties and will hydrate your skin, and lavender essential oil offers anti-inflammatory benefits. Blend together two tablespoons of coconut oil, ¼ cup of raw honey, and two or three drops of lavender oil. Apply to your face using a cosmetic brush and leave on for 15-20mins, then rinse with warm water.  Follow with a moisturizer. Use this mask twice a week.