Written by Emma Crosswhite. Photos by Bill Sioholm.

On a college budget giving your skin the things it needs can taxing. Having a good skin routine can not only benefit the way you present to others, but it can also benefit your health.  Whether you have an extra couple of minutes or are in dire need of a self care night it is important to recognize that it doesn't have to cost you a pretty penny. High-end masks aren't always readily available to everyone and most of the time lack your ability to customize them to your skin’s needs. Using ingredients in your (or your parents’) pantry to give you the glowing skin you’ve been waiting for.

Like any new skin product make sure you first do a patch test. This is to insure that any ingredients do not cause the skin a negative reaction. 

Benefits of Coffee:

• Anti-aging properties

• Improves the appearance of cellulite 

• Reduce swelling and puffiness in the skin

Benefits of Honey:

• Exfoliator 

• Helps level out bacteria

• An abundance of antioxidants which help with anti-aging

Benefits of Cocoa Powder: 

• Promotes a glowing complexion

• Stimulates tissue repair 

• Reduces oily skin

Benefits of Egg Whites:

• Skin tightening properties

• Hydrates the skin

• Helps protect skin from UV rays

Benefits of Oatmeal: 

• Absorbs oil

• Great for sensitive skin

• Can be used as an exfoliant

Benefits of Yogurt: 

• Reduces Blemishes 

• Moisturizes skin

• Helps dissolve dead skin 

Benefits of Sugar

• Great abrasive for exfoliation

• Helps keep moisture in

• Can help get rid of ingrown hairs

Benefits of Coconut oil

• Reduces inflammation

• Kills bacteria

• Natural skin cleanser

  Benefits of Baking Soda

• Removes dead skin cells

• Brightens color of skin

• Prevents clogging of pores

Listed below are some examples of how you can use these ingredients together to give your skin the attention it craves.