If there’s a reason to eat chocolate, we listen to it with open ears. While chocolate tastes delicious, it actually has health benefits, which means you can keep it a staple in your diet, in moderation of course.
Side note: We’re talking about dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content (ideally 70% or more), not Hershey processed milk chocolate bars, so keep that in mind when you read about all the miraculous things that happen when you indulge in the naturally rich and decadent food.
Both eating this magical dessert and applying it topically to your skin can dramatically improve your complexion. Here you will find all the benefits it brings to your skin, as well as homemade ways you can integrate chocolate into your at-home skin care routine for the best facial treatment.
How does chocolate benefit your skin?
Moisturizes the skin
Thanks to antioxidants, your skin is protected from damaging free radicals, which can cause blemishes. Cocoa itself is an antioxidant and is also rich in flavonoids. Flavonoids are packed with vitamins A, B1, C, D, and E, keeping your face looking youthful.
Stops blemishes and irritation.
Did you know that chocolate has anti-inflammatory properties when applied topically? Whether you choose to use a chocolate-infused lip balm or skin care products, it will have a gentle effect and soothe any irritation.
Chocolate is a natural moisturizer.
Thanks to oleic acid, stearic acid and palmitic acid, your dry skin will become deliciously soft. Treat yourself to a lotion with the magical ingredients of chocolate; After all, there’s a reason why cocoa butter is so nutritious. You can make a homemade mask with dark chocolate or invest in other chocolate-based hydrating products.
Increases collagen
Cocoa, which is the raw material for chocolate, contains very high levels of antioxidants, which in turn reduces wrinkles and increases collagen production. It protects the skin from UV rays, which also maintains elasticity. Because cocoa beans are high in magnesium, they stimulate the body’s ability to produce a hormone called progesterone, which stops breakouts.
Detoxifies the skin and protects from UV damage.
Don’t have time for a facial? Dark chocolate contains caffeine, which helps exfoliate dead skin cells, sloughing off to reveal a fresh layer of baby-soft skin. It also slows the signs of aging and can help prevent skin cancer and sunburn, making it a useful and beneficial addition to any diet. Studies show that chocolate consumption can provide “significant photoprotection” to those who eat it.
1.Make a chocolate scrub
Consider making a homemade scrub, like this recipe, which can help achieve soft and smooth skin with the help of a little almond and coconut oil, brown sugar, cocoa powder, and essential oil. Even better news? This scrub is edible.
2. Make yourself a chocolate mask
This luxurious face mask from Wellness Mama features the star of the show, also known as cocoa powder. It also combines the benefits of banana, raw honey, and yogurt, which all fight free radicals and have anti-inflammatory properties.
3. Make a powder foundation
Yes, cocoa powder is a staple ingredient in many homemade foundations, and it will be much less drying than store-bought powders. Here, cocoa powder is combined with spices like nutmeg and cloves to create an all-natural recipe that doubles as skincare and makeup.
4.Make a chocolate chip lip balm
Do you want to smell like a tempting cupcake all day? This recipe is perfect to make alone or with the family and calls for chocolate chips, beeswax, vitamin E, and olive oil. Get softer lips and put the whole family to work – a great way to keep the kids busy and add a bright new staple to your lip routine.
