By Stephenetta (isis) Harmon, Sadiaa Black Beauty Guide
Next to water, beer is one of the most commonly consumed drinks in the world. And, it seems there’s a drink for everyone — whether you only sip what’s on tap or are a hard-core connoisseur sampling your way through all sorts of new flavors. But, instead of imbibing, why not let your skin and hair enjoy the frothy beverage?
[SEE ALSO: 5 Natural Ways To Beat Acne & Get Clearer Skin]
Yep, that’s right! This yeasty drink can actually help you up your health and beauty game. It is almost as good as taking probiotics, helping to balance gut health and address a multitude of beauty wants — including clearer skin and shinier hair.
Scroll down for five ways to add a cold one to your beauty regimen.
Get A Youthful Glow
We are all looking for that magical fountain of youth and beer is definitely on the right path. But, instead of imbibing, you can use it as a toner or serum to reduce the signs of aging and get brighter skin. That’s because it’s rich in antioxidants and B vitamins to blast skin-damaging free radicals, improve microcirculation, improve skin elasticity and stabilize collagen for smoother, more supple skin. To reap the benefits, mix one-part lemon juice with three parts flat beer and rub on skin as a toner. Rinse with cool water and follow up with your normal moisturizer.
Fight Acne and Other Skin Issues
Speaking of magic, beer can wipe out skin issues in a flash. The yeast and B vitamins can help fight skin infections, balance pH levels, slow down sebum production, clear blocked skin pores, and break down dead skin cells. All this can lead to clearer, brighter, and less acne-prone skin. It can also provide relief against long-term skin issues like eczema, contact dermatitis, and atopic dermatitis. Try a homemade mask, mixing 1/2 cup of beer, two teaspoons of lemon juice, and an egg white. Apply to face and let sit for 10 minutes. Rinse with warm water and follow up with a moisturizer.
Deep Condition and Repair Damaged Hair
It’s not just great on skin, either. Beer is rich in proteins (hops and malt) that can help repair damaged hair cuticles, seal split ends, and nourish hair follicles. To reap the benefits, mix ½ a cup of flat beer in with your favorite conditioner (or apply solo) and work in from roots to tips, massaging into the scalp. Let sit for five minutes and rinse with cool water. This will also leave your hair shinier, softer, and more voluminous.
Clarify The Scalp
You can also use beer to break down product buildup and clarify the scalp for shinier hair. Before (or after) shampooing hair, mix three parts flat beer with one part apple cider vinegar. Massage onto damp hair and scalp and let sit for five minutes. Rinse with warm water and continue your conditioning regimen.
Get stronger nails
With your hair and skin on point, why not strengthen your nails, too? Beer is rich in silicon, the predominant mineral in our nails. So, if your nails are soft and brittle, chances are they could benefit from a boost from a dip in a beer. Health studies show that a good bear soak can decrease nail brittleness and help nails grow stronger and longer, as well as protect against nail infections. You can actually use that same beer and vinegar mix once a week on your nails to help fortify them.
Is beer already part of your beauty regimen? If so, what’s your favorite way to use it? Let us know in the comments below!
