As they say, the key to a healthy and glowing skin is proper nourishment. But before you run to the health store to get a bottle of moisturizer, why not check your home first? You never know that what you are looking for is just lurking in the kitchen.

For a naturally glowing and hydrated skin, here are 7 kitchen ingredients to find:

1. Honey

Thanks to its antibacterial properties, honey is widely used for acne treatment . It even works well as a facial cleanser! And because it has lots of antioxidants, it effectively combats irritations and signs of aging . Therefore, all that is left is a radiant skin!

To use, simply combine 2 tablespoons of honey with ½ cup of water to form a paste. Apply the solution to your skin and let it dry. After that, rinse with warm water.

2. Cucumbers

An excellent source of water and nutrients like vitamins A and E, potassium, and magnesium, cucumbers are said to promote healing and a glowing complexion. In addition, it also helps reduce wrinkles and puffiness. No wonder why it is often seen patched in the eyes.

For a hydrating cucumber facial mask, you can extract the puree of cucumbers and mix a few drops of honey. And then, apply to your face.

3. Shea Butter

Worried about your dry and cracked skin? Here's the best solution to your problem-Shea Butter. Made from the nuts of the Shea tree's fruit, this amazing kitchen ingredient works as a natural moisturizer, creating a strong barrier that protects the skin from harsh elements.

The best thing about Shea butter is the fact that it is very easy to use. As long as it is not expired, you can slather it directly over your skin like lotion!

4. Olive Oil

A popular moisturizer that has been used for years, olive oil is rich in natural acids and antioxidants that help create a great barrier against the sun's harmful effects, leaving your skin strengthened and glowing.

To use, mix two drops of your favorite essential oil and three tablespoons of olive oil to your daily bath. Later on, you will definitely enjoy a calming and refreshing effect.

5. Buttermilk

Do you know why buttermilk is widely used in a multitude of skin care products? The answer is simple. It has properties that help get rid of dead skin cells, improving the cell turnover rate and rejuvenating them. When there are new skin cells, it only means one thing-fresh and young looking skin.

To reap its perks as a skin moisturizer, dip a piece of soft cloth in cold buttermilk and wipe it on your face. Leave it on for at least 5 minutes before rinsing.

6. Lemon

Although lemon is not for everyone, there has been plenty of success stories about people reaping the skin benefits of lemon. Unlike honey and other ingredients on this list, lemon is not that gentle on the skin. But when it comes to brightening your skin tone, this one won't disappoint.

If you want to clear your face from blemishes and any unnecessary marks, try using lemon. Dilute it with water first to reduce its acidity, and then mix it with other ingredients like honey. An important thing to note though, do not use lemon on your face if you are planning to spend time under the sun. It will only darken your skin.

7. Coconut Oil

Packed with Lauric acids that are quickly absorbed by the skin, coconut oil is readily available at grocery stores at a very affordable price. Although it comes in different varieties, the benefits it provides the skin are countless.

Coconut oil can be used to create homemade skin care products like coconut oil lotions and lip balms . A quick search online will give you hundreds of recipes to follow.

Hopefully, these ingredients could spare your skin from potential dangers and save your pockets from pricey commercial products. Since they are just around, feel free to explore their uses.

Author's Bio: 

Catherine finds joy in the simplest things. Her passion for traveling is equally matched by her love for animals. When she’s at home, you can find her in her room writing about her travel experiences or outside the house playing with her fur babies. Whenever she’s in the mood for experimenting, you can see her in the kitchen trying out new recipes, most likely desserts. Despite her busy lifestyle, she makes sure to spend time with friends, participating in various charity works and running for a cause.

She shares her expertise about nutritious and organic foods like coconut oil on her blog Free Coconut Recipes . Find out what she’s up to by following her social media accounts, Facebook , Twitter , and Google+ .