As we get older we begin to experience various skin conditions that are general and common signs of aging. For some it is acne for others it might be the splash of red creeping across the face or fine lines that appear around the eyes, while for some the issues are more serious (i.e., pruritic skin disease). From combating wrinkles and crow’s feet to sagging skin and rosacea, common treatments like Botox, Plexaderm, collagen and a wide variety of skincare products may be too costly or harsh. DIY skin care is closer than some might think with these home treatments:

1. Egg whites

Combined with other ingredients, egg whites transform into a facial mask that can alleviate oily skin or hydrate dry skin. Adding additional ingredients including honey or lemon juice can help sagging skin or provide a boost to a brightening complexion.

2. Olive oil

Olives have long had a place on our plates but are now holding a place of honor in our skincare regime. Mostly used as a carrier oil, it has been shown to provide hydration to dry skin. It has also been proven as a special benefit for sunburned skin.

3. Topical vitamin C

While most people understand Vitamin C as something to ingest to help boost our immune systems, topical vitamin c is all the rage in skincare. This powerhouse nutrient can help diminish wrinkles and fine lines, brighten the complexion, make collagen and so much more. For those with the knowledge, several easy-to-make serums can be produced at home and stored for 1-2 weeks.

4. Probiotics or yogurt

Just like digestive probiotics, topical probiotics work to keep down bacteria’s ability to cause flare-ups in skin disorders. Bacteria on the skin live to keep the immune system on high alert causing breakouts in acne and rosacea, topically applied probiotics are the great equalizer. Yogurt might be a yummy treat, but it is also a fantastic way of reducing dark circles under the eyes, soothing sunburns, and even diminishing fine lines and wrinkles. When used as a carrier with other ingredients such as honey and cocoa it can help improve elasticity in the skin. If mixed with oats it can help reduce the signs of wrinkles.

5. Aloe Vera

The use of the aloe vera plant has been around for centuries to treat everything from minor cuts to psoriasis. However, its anti-inflammatory properties also make it a wonderful topical treatment for acne. Moreover, it makes an effective treatment for eczema, frostbite, and dry skin. None of which anyone wants to show up on their face.

6. Banana mask

Bananas are full of nutrients such as potassium and amino acids, and these properties make banana masks perfect for facials. The combination of aloe will even assist in creating collagen in the skin and fight wrinkles. Even the peel can be used to ward off acne as it is rich in vitamins c and e, iron, zinc, potassium, and manganese.

There is a solution at home for just about any skin or hair issue that comes up. DIY skin care is no different. The signs of aging sometimes just seem to appear when looking in the mirror, regardless of how long they may have actually taken to appear. Laugh lines, dark circles/spots, sagging skin all there looking back as you stare in the mirror. Consequently, prevention (or at least slowing it down aging) is the name of the game. Doing it yourself may take some practice to get it right for your skin, but the reward is well worth the effort.