Natural Beauty 3

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Naturally Healthy Nails

It's easy to achieve healthy and strong nails. Start by eating a healthy diet. Then protect your nails with natural emollients like molasses, buttermilk, and olive oil. Nails give off moisture a hundred times faster than your skin does.Molasses Nail Soak

20 cents

YIELD: 1 NAIL SOAK FOR BOTH HANDS

This molasses soak softens cuticles and

strengthens and conditions nails. Don't

worry--it rinses away easily and won't

leave your hands sticky.

1/4 cup warm water

2 tablespoons molasses

Mix the water and molasses together,

stirring well.

Soak your nails in the solution for 15 to

20 minutes and then rinse, or swab it on

clean nails before going to bed and rinse in

the morning.

Swiss Milkmaid Hand Mask

26 cents

YIELD: 3 OUNCES

In Switzerland, dairy products are famous

for creating healthy skin because they offer

protein and vitamins. This mask gives noticeable

results--it will leave your hands smooth

and glowing. You may also use this recipe

on your face and body.

1/4 cup buttermilk

1/2 cup powdered milk or

powdered buttermilk

Mix the buttermilk and powdered

milk to form a smooth

paste. Store in an airtight container

in the refrigerator.

Spread an even layer of this

mixture over your hands. (I use

a small pastry brush or paintbrush.)

Leave the mask on

until it dries, 15 to 20 minutes.

Rinse off with cool water

and pat dry.

Natural Nail Luster

23 cents

YIELD: 0.5 OUNCE

Massaging this mixture into clean nails promotes

nail growth. White clay, also known

as kaolin, enhances shine; it is available in

natural food stores.

1 tablespoon pure olive oil

1/2 tablespoon powdered white clay

Mix the olive oil and clay into a smooth

cream. If the mixture seems too thick, add

a bit more olive oil. Store in a small container

with a lid.

Massage a small amount into your nails

and cuticles. Wipe off any excess with a soft

cloth and buff lightly with a cotton buffing

pad for a natural glow.

 

RELATED ARTICLE: Keep homemade potions fresh. (Consider This)

If you follow the suggestions below, your homemade products should last for several weeks. (Additional directions appear in some recipes.)

1. Store your products in clean, airtight glass or plastic jars and bottles in a cool, dark, dry place.

2. To minimize the risk of contaminating products with bacteria, don't put your fingers in the jars or bottles. Instead, use cotton balls, cotton swabs, or a small spatula to remove only as much as you need. Or pour it onto clean hands.

3. If something smells bad (a strong sour odor, for example), it probably is. Throw it out.