Good for all of you Avocados are one of nature's more perfect foods. They're so yummy that eating them makes you feel like you're getting away with something, yet they're brimming with healthy nutrients (vitamins E, C, fiber, even some protein) plus good-guy fats (mono and polyunsaturated). And not only are they good for your inside, they're good for your skin-side too.
Skin care goes green Have you noticed that avocados are making star turns in trendy skin-care products? That's because scientist have found that some antioxidants -- like the natural vitamin E in avocado -- help protect the skin from aging and damage caused by sun, smoke, and pollution. "Avocados are also a great way to moisturize because they act as humectants -- that is, they draw water into the skin and plump it up, giving it a more youthful quality. And because the antioxidants in avocados are in their native form, they may be more effective than other forms of vitamin E," says dermatologist Amy Wechsler, MD, RealAge's skin specialist.
Got an overripe avocado that never made it into a salad? Don't toss it. Here's a skin rescue recipe that's an instant spa treatment for your face.
3-STEP REJUVENATING MASK
1. Mash half of a chilled, slightly overripe avocado with 1/2 tablespoon of honey, a natural moisturizer and healer. "Then, using your hands, wash your face gently with a cleanser or mild soap," says Dr. Wechsler.
2. Find a relaxing spot away from distractions like phones and email. Apply mask gently to face, avoiding the eyes, and lie down for 20 minutes, letting the mask do its good-skin work.
3. Rinse with warm water. Moisturize to seal in the goodness. Check out your radiant complexion -- it's your skin's way of thanking you.
Feel like you just took a couple of years off your face? Find out if your body's younger than your legal age too -- take the scientifically proven RealAge test and find out. Meanwhile, pick up a couple of avocados on your way home tonight; those Aztecs were clearly onto something.
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