True beer is the world’s favourite tipple after water and tea. It also has beauty benefits.
According to Kelly Gielink, Johannesburg beauty therapist and make-up artist, beer is made with natural ingredients (barley and hops). It is rich in protein and vitamins that promote healthy hair and skin.
South African Breweries has pulled up some easy remedies to make and try at home, using beer.
How to make your own beer shampoo:
Help restore body and bounce to your hair with one cup of your favourite beer and another cup of your favourite shampoo.
Method:
· Step 1: Pour one cup of beer into a medium saucepan and on a medium-to-high temperature boil for 15 minutes or until it reduces to half the content.
· Step 2: Let the beer cool completely.
· Step 3: Pour one cup of shampoo and the cooled beer into a mixing bowl and stir gently until blended.
· Step 4: Funnel the beer shampoo into a bottle of your choice.
· Step 5: Wash your hair at leisure.
If you would rather simply purchase beer shampoo, you can find them via at these online stores: www.za.biuky.com and www.za.carethy.net.
It is recommended that you alternate beer shampoo washes with normal shampoo.
How to make your own beer facial:
According to Gielink, the yeast in beer is antibacterial and helps combat acne.
Ingredients:
· 2 tablespoons of your favourite beer
· 1 tablespoon honey
· 1 egg white
Method:
Step 1: Pour two tablespoons of beer into a bowl and add the other two ingredients.
Step 2: Whisk until the mixture if frothy (well mixed).
Step 3: Apply mixture to your face and other acne-prone areas, such as neck, chest or back.
Application:
· Step 1: Dab a cotton ball, tissue or make-up pad into the mixture and apply to your face.
· Step 2: Let it set for between 10 and 15 minutes (it will dry pretty quickly).
· Step 3: Rinse off with warm water and gently pat dry.
You can decant what is left over into an airtight container, but you must use within a day or so, before the egg ingredient spoils.
How to make a beer scrub and soak in a “beer bath” afterwards:
“Because of the hops aroma, a warm beer bath promotes drowsiness and sleep, relaxing the body and mind,” said Gielink.
Can’t make it to the Beer Spa? Brew your own bath at home.
Ingredients:
· 1/4 cup of your favourite beer
· 2 tablespoons plain yoghurt
· 2 tablespoons olive or coconut oil
· 2 tablespoons lemon juice
· 2 tablespoons almond extract
· 3 egg whites
Method:
· Step 1: Combine all your ingredients in a bowl and whip together until smooth.
· Step 2: Run a warm bath and soak for 15 minutes to open up your pores.
· Step 3: Climb out of the bath and lightly dry your body with a towel.
· Step 4: Apply the beer scrub all over your body and allow 15 minutes for it to soak into your skin.
· Step 5: Rinse off by climbing back into your bath.
· Step 6: Relax in your “beer bath” at leisure.
Other beer spa treatments include a “beer foot soak”. To unwind, pour two ice-cold beers into a bucket and soak your feet. “The carbonation soothes tired feet,” said Gielink.
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