Kefir has gained its popularity lately especially in social media where online shops have started to sell kefir-infused products, from food to face masks. But do you know what kefir is?
Kefir is a beverage made of fermented milk, usually goats milk. The name itself comes from a Turkish word for feeling good. Its originated in Northern Caucasus Mountain where they made kefir using kefir grains.
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Benefits of kefir, the ultimate superfood
The bacteria contained in kefir, Lactobacillus Caucasus, ferments lactose in the milk into lactic acid, which gives kefir its sour taste. Along with other intestinal microbes, the bacteria also gives kefir its benefits for your body and skin health.
Today, kefir is considered as a superfood because it contains a composition of intestinal microbes that prevents the growth of pathogenic microorganisms inside your body.
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Kefir drinks can improveour immune system, overcoming fatigue and cleansing our stomach. Kefir is also good for our bones and tooth because its rich in calcium and phosphorus. Its also rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and proteins. Regular consumption of kefir will help to keep us healthy and reduce weight as well.
Kefir mask for healthy and glowing skin
In addition to its health benefits as a drink, kefir also makes an incredible nourishing face mask, thanks to the probiotics it contains and the natural Alpha-Hydroxy Acid (AHA).
AHA has been the key ingredient in many skincare products for its ability to improve skin condition. It helps getting rid of dead skin cells, restore the balance of beneficial bacterias on skin and stimulating the production of collagen, an anti-aging agent. Kefir also helps with skin exfoliation and offers anti-inflammatory effect, which help to overcome various skin problems such as acne and rosacea.
How to make a kefir mask
You can always purchase your kefir mask, but to make sure that your mask contains real fresh kefir, you can also try to make it yourself. All you need is a bottle of original kefir beverage without added sugar and some other ingredients.
If you want, you can brew the kefir beverage by yourself by mixing kefir grains with either goat or cow milk, covering it with clean cloth, placing it in a warm place and leaving it for about 24 hours to culture. Using mesh strainer, separate kefir milk from the grains.
To make the kefir mask, first you have to know your skins condition, whether its normal/combination, acne-prone, dry or oily because each type needs different treatment.
Normal/combination skin: Mix 2 tablespoons of kefir with grated cucumber, apply the mixture to your face and let it sit for 20 minutes, and gently rinse off. Enjoy the softer skin!
Oily skin: Mix 2 tablespoons of kefir, egg white and honey. Apply to your face and let it dry about 15-20 minutes. Egg white helps to tighten the pores and antibacterial agents in honey help keeping your skin healthy.
Dry/dehydrated skin: Mix 2 tablespoons of kefir, egg yolk and avocado. Apply the mixture to your face and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Avocado is rich in monounsaturated fats and acts as a moisturizing agent.
Acne-prone skin: Mix 2 tablespoons of kefir with oatmeal and honey. Apply the mixture to your face for about 15-20 minutes, and welcome healthier, smoother, and plumper skin!