Ever wonder what the long list of ingredients are in your beauty products? Here’s an A to Z guide about different types of skincare ingredients and their benefits. This guide can also help you learn about what ingredients to look for to care for your type of skin.

A.

Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) is an acid that exfoliates your skin. It helps smooth fine lines and wrinkles, improves skin tone and unclogs pores.

B.

Beta-keratine is a protein that helps skin and hair retain its moisture.

C.

Collagen is a protein and the building blocks of our skin. It’s what makes our skin look plump and supple.

D.

Vitamin D is an antioxidant and anti-carcinogen that helps cell regeneration and is an excellent treatment for psoriasis.

E.

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps fight free radicals that can cause aging. It also helps improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Hair masks are the best prescription for dry hair. Natural hair masks work the best because they don’t contain alcohol or sulfates. Most of those chemicals can actually strip the natural oils from your hair.

Supercharged Avocado Banana Hair Mask

• 1/2 Avocado
• 1/2 Banana
• 2 Tbsp Olive Oil

Add-ins to choose from:

• 1 Tbsp Vitamin A Oil
• 1 Tbsp Vitamin E Oil
• 1 Tbsp Coconut Oil
• 1 Tbsp Avocado Oil
• 1 Tbsp Keratin Extract Oil

Mash or blend the avocado and banana together. Add in the olive oil and your choice of  add-in oils. Mix until creamy and apply to your hair. Leave in for at least 20 minutes and then wash out with a gentle sulfate-free shampoo.

You can find these oils in Whole Foods or at the pharmacy. You can also order them online. I get mine from a Brazilian products store, the small vials are found in the beauty aisle or near the register. I sometimes add a little bit of all the oils.

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