As we near the cooler months, we draw ourselves close to all that makes us feel comforted and nourished. Our conversations for this feature hones in on skin-loving super powers of food ingredients. There’s even a fun face mask recipe for you to try at home…enjoy!

Our physical and mental wellbeing has been stretched to the limit and more than ever, we are embracing ‘self-care’ and prioritising the harmony of our mind, body and soul. We’re listening to our bodies with a kind ear and are taking action when we become out of balance. It’s commonplace to focus on our inner health with consideration to what we eat and so, embracing the same vibe, I look how we can ‘wear our vitamins’ too.

It’s a known fact, our skin is the largest organ in our body so have you considered that out skin absorbs a large amount of what’s put on it? I’ve have the joy of growing up with the plant-based medicine and ointments, thanks to my herbalist mum, and dedicating my career to natural beauty and self care was an easy choice. Studying cosmetic science has brought my experiences together to give a much deeper understanding of natural formulations. I love to share my favourite findings so here’s my stroll around our local areas for some yummy scrummy ‘products and places’ to treat yourself to some much needed TLC this season.

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One of my favourite discoveries is homegrown Mallows Beauty and their I’m Strong enzyme face peel. The powerful bromelain enzyme found in pineapple is a marvel for brightening the complexion and reducing uneven skin tone. Great for acne-prone skin too! Ere Perez Cosmetics is another favourite, their Avacado Waterproof Mascara has proven itself unbeatable with the dreaded ‘face mask steam’ as well as nourishing for the lashes. Their Papaya SOS Marmalade is also loved in our house and has multiple soothing benefits for face and hands. A treat for the senses and to keep legs super-soft use Grounds for Good Coffee Body Scrubs. Nails are in good hands with the genius Nail Polish from Nailkind whose formulas are the ‘cleanest’ around and cleverly use potato starch to give super long-lasting wear and gloss. Almost good enough to eat (please don’t!) is this deliciously smelling Glen Cocoa face mask from Lush Spa where cocoa and almond combined with floral extracts soften the skin beautifully. A treat for the tresses can be found with Oway Organic who’ve mastered their collection of biodynamic and organic formulations. Favourites include their Silk n Glow Hair Mask and Volumising Root Spray with extracts of Brazil nut, ginger and yarrow to work their magic. When it’s time for a cuppa, why not pour a handful of Thornbush Hill’s Rose Geranium, Bergamot and Eucalyptus Bath Tea under the hot tap for a warming treat. One of my own creations from Motto Botanicals will give skin a welcome boost. Our new Magic-22 Super Serum is ‘stuffed full’ of 22 plant-based and fruity goodness like blueberry, passionfruit and plum, to ensure our skin is glowing through winter and beyond. Finishing off our stroll with a trip to Blossom and Nectar and Ripple to stock up on ingredients to make our fun homemade face mask recipe!

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Don’t forget to seek out an amazing ‘nature led’ salon and spa too. So many have an abundance of natural hair and beauty services and are blessed with incredible customer care, more important than ever. Many embrace sustainability alongside being ambassadors of vegan, organic and cruelty-free products. A spa day at Lanelay Hall is always a treat, who use Ishga Organic Skincare for their treatments. Goji, Cwtch and Kalon hair salons are perfects for OWAY treatments and products. For holistic and aromatherapy treats, try ener-chi, Aroma Holistic Clinic and Luna Beauty; all offer beautiful treatments, utilising herbs and fruity ingredients. Bliss!

Homemade ‘Veggie Patch’ Face Mask with Honey- An aromatic formula loaded with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to refine skin appearance and deeply nourish.

Ingredients

• 1 medium potato peeled, boiled, cooled
• 1 tbsp aloe vera gel
• 1 tbsp fresh or frozen pumpkin pulp
• 1 tsp fresh of frozen mango pulp
• 1 tsp fresh chopped parsley leaves
• 1 tsp local honey (optional)
• 1/2 tsp fresh lemon juice
• Pinch of grated ginger
• Rice flour, as need to bind together

Simply combine all ingredients in a bowl and mash or blend together until smooth. Apply with clean hands or brush to cleansed skin (avoiding eyes) and leave on for up to 15 minutes. Rinse away residue and moisturise as normal. Patch test recommended prior to first use.