While I’m more than ready for the arrival of spring, it seems winter isn’t quite yet ready to loosen its harsh grip just yet.  We’re still receiving regular blasts of Arctic air here in New Jersey, and this week’s especially windy weather has been doing a number even on my oft-oily skin.  Since spending money on expensive moisturizers doesn’t really fit into my current budget, I instead turned to raiding my fridge and pantry for some skin-quenching inspiration.

I always knew honey was a super beneficial food-it contains a number of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that make it a healthier alternative to white sugar.  What I didn’t know is that honey is a humectant, meaning it absorbs water from the air… meaning it’s a great natural skin moisturizer!  What’s more, its antibacterial properties will destroy my pesky pimples in a snap.

The fat in egg yolks, avocado, and olive oil causes these foods to act as emollients, which are natural moisturizers that smooth and soften skin.  (Allow me to indulge my inner science geek by letting you know that emollients contain three basic properties: occlusion (provides a layer of surface oil to stop water loss), humectants (like honey!), and lubrication.)  These foods can be used topically, but will also provide moisture from the inside out of you eat them, which is the perfect excuse to tuck into some guacamole, or drizzle some extra virgin olive oil on just about anything.

And speaking of the inside out, there’s a number of herbal teas that can give your skin the extra moisture boost it craves.  Make your own tisanes (fancy word for herbal tea) by steeping marshmallow, dandelion, peppermint, or chamomile in hot water.

Finally, remember that what you do do about your dry skin is just as important as what you don’t. Cleanse your face twice a day at the maximum, and use warm rather than hot water.  Further, keep in mind that soap can have a drying effect on skin.  You might be better off washing up with oat flour or almond meal mixed with soothing aloe vera.

– Marygrace, KIWI intern and developer of DIY beauty

I have a confession. I am obsessed with lip moisturizers. I can’t get enough. A few weeks ago, we wrote about natural lip balms. Being that I am always on the lookout for new lip companions, I feel a responsibility to continue this conversation and introduce more natural lip care.

Today’s highlight: Yes To Carrots C Me Smile Lip Butter

Self-described as lip butter, I see no better explanation for this smooth, hydrating creation. The consistency is just right, not too thick and not too thin. Added bonus: this USDA-certified organic stick contains all natural ingredients, no animal testing and paraben, petroleum and phthalate free.

Post a comment and let me know what natural balm your lips crave.

– Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of lip beauty (if you didn’t already get that from the blog)

I was walking through my local Target, just browsing. Which, as anyone knows, is a very dangerous thing to do in Target. You go into Target needing to stock up on Method products and you come out with 4 DVDs, some house cleaner, a box of Kashi and about 40,000 other things you were not aware you needed until Target politely pointed it out to you.

Anyway, I was in the underwear section and I was surprised to see that old, reliable undergarment company Hanes, with a 100% organic seal on their label. I was skeptical at first, but then I saw a whole line of Hanes organic underwear. Everything from underwear to lounge pants! For a person who was not raised organically, this comes as a huge comfort. I grew up always wearing Hanes, and now I am glad I can continue doing so. (They are just so darn comfy!)

So a big thank you to Target and Hanes for making this shopper very happy!

So this weekend I did something crazy. I cut off all of my hair!

First, let me introduce myself. My name is Stacey and I am a new team member here at Kiwi Magazine. Well, I did cut my hair off- 10 inches to be exact. Why you may ask? For Locks of Love.

Locks of Love is a non-profit dedicated to making wigs for children who no longer have hair due to alopecia or cancer. Each donation must be 10 inches in from the longest tip to top of the pony tail/braid. It was really hard to let go of my hair, but it makes me feel better knowing that I helped someone who really needed it.

Here are the guidelines for acceptable hair donations:

• Hair that is colored or permed is acceptable.
• Hair cut years ago is usable if it has been stored in a ponytail or braid.
• Hair that has been bleached (usually this refers to highlighted hair) is not usable. If unsure, ask your stylist.
• Hair that is swept off of the floor is not usable.
• Hair that is shaved off and not in a ponytail or braid is not usable.
• Layered hair is acceptable if the longest layer is 10 inches.
• Layered hair may be divided into multiple ponytails.
• Curly hair may be pulled straight to measure the minimum 10 inches.
• 10 inches measured tip to tip is the minimum length needed for a hairpiece.

Start growing your hair today! For more information go to the Locks of Love website.