Chamomile to Calm Beard Burn
Few of us can resist a man with sexy five o’clock shadow, but a steamy make-out session can leave you with beard burn — patches of redness, flaking, itching, and general irritation around the mouth, chin, and cheeks that resemble sunburn. Fortunately, nature’s most soothing herbal leaf can heal distressed skin quickly. “Chamomile is a natural anti-inflammatory, with the power to reduce redness, itchiness, and swelling, and it’s a great alternative to cortisone,” says Jessica Wu, MD, a clinical associate professor of dermatology at the University of Southern California medical school.
To treat beard burn, steep a chamomile tea bag in boiling water for two to three minutes to release the anti-inflammatory enzymes, then place the tea bag in a small container in your fridge. Once the tea bag is cold, apply it directly to red, irritated patches on your face for instant relief.
Cinnamon for a Glowing Complexion
Cinnamon adds a kick to cookies and hot drinks, but it’s also packed with antioxidants — substances that fight skin damage. “Cinnamon has more antioxidant value than half a cup of blueberries,” says nutritionist Keri Glassman, the author of The O2 Diet. For an easy antioxidant boost, sprinkle half a teaspoon of cinnamon on your coffee grounds before brewing.
To ensure you’re using the most potent spices, says Glassman, discard bottles that are more than two years old; also, store spices in a dark cupboard, because heat from the stove and sunlight will decrease their potency.
Garlic for Healthy Hair
While garlic may be killer for your breath, it’s a lifesaver for thin hair. Your hair follicle needs nutrients to produce thick, healthy hair. When you aren’t eating the right ones, your hair pays the price. Foods that are high in cysteine, an amino acid found in garlic, can help reinvigorate your follicles, says Dr. Wu. “Cysteine molecules are linked together in a strong sequence of disulfide bonds,” she explains, "which gives your hair its strength.