Affordable Natural Skin Care From the Kitchen and Medicine Cabinet

In this article: Products from your fridge, pantry and medicine cabinet that can also benefit your skin, allowing you to minimize the chemicals and costs associated with store-bought skincare products.

by Jaime Ferry

It seems there are as many beauty products available as there are cells on your face, vying for your dollars, claiming that you need them to be a better you.

Over the years, I used many things trying to get better skin and fix problem areas, spending a lot of money. Using so many products meant my body was absorbing chemicals, creating more imbalances and skin issues, and requiring even more products and money to fix them. Eventually, I decided to go with natural skincare. Not only was it healthier, but I also saved a lot of money with more affordable natural skincare alternatives.

Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castile Liquid Soap

A little castile soap goes a long way, which is wonderful for anyone trying to stretch the value of their dollar. You can use it on your face or body. I use the peppermint one, but they offer several moderately priced varieties. I place a small amount in my palm, add some water, and then slather it on, massaging my face.

If I experience any breakouts, I let the soap sit on my face a little longer, allowing the oils to be absorbed. This clears out the bad bacteria, replacing them with the good oil. Then, I remove the soap with water.

The 150-year-old, family-owned company ethically sources certified, organic raw materials from around the world, honoring Fair Trade practices and supporting our global family. The natural essential oils are nourishing to the skin’s health and beauty.

Olive Oil

I apply organic olive oil two to three times a week in the morning to my face with clean hands, giving myself a facial massage. I include the area around my eyes, which is great for circulation, according to Healthline.com. I bought an inexpensive refillable olive oil bottle to keep in my bathroom.

If my face is dry, I use the oil a few times a week after washing with Dr. Bronner’s at night. I apply a little and massage it into my skin, then rinse. I blot my face with a clean cotton towel to absorb the excess oil while still leaving some intact to be absorbed by my skin.

Milk-Based Products

I use yogurt, buttermilk or kefir cream, which I buy to eat, and apply some as a mask on my face and neck. I also add a little bit of buttermilk and sea salt for exfoliation and detoxification to my bath water. The natural lactic acids in these foods are great at sloughing off dead skin, leaving it soft and glowing. I use an inexpensive loofah to clear away the skin on my body, doing a quick rinse after the bath.

Related: DIY Salt Scrubs for Silky Skin

Witch Hazel and Hydrogen Peroxide

I use witch hazel as an astringent toner, which is natural and inexpensive. I also use hydrogen peroxide for breakouts, which is good for dealing with bacteria that creates infections on the skin.

Related:

• 10 Ways To Save on Natural Skincare
• Almond Oil: A Natural Budget-Friendly Toiletry
• Reduce Your Beauty Budget With Baking Soda: Tips and Recipes
• Fantastic Homemade Frugal Facial Masks

Reviewed March 2024