From Kitchen Counter to Beauty Cabinet: DIY Beauty Tips from Mom

My mom has always had a minimal makeup and skincare routine. She relies on DIY rituals passed down from generation to generation in my family, and she’s stuck with it for decades, so you know they must be good. They’re simple, quick, effective and the best part: the ingredients are likely to be in your kitchen.

This Mother’s Day, I wanted to highlight mom’s all-natural secrets for stronger, healthier hair and brighter, hydrated, blemish-free skin. Here are my weekly rituals, brought to you by none other than my mother. Not that I needed another reason to say this, but: thanks, mom!

For the Hair: Coconut Oil Hair Mask

This one-ingredient hair mask is a weekly ritual for both me and my mom to this day. Coconut oil deeply hydrates from root to tip while nourishing and soothing your hair. Plus, it helps prevent protein loss, making your follicles stronger than ever.

We always heat up the coconut oil to melt it before applying to dry hair and then working it in section by section. Make sure to massage the oil in thoroughly along the way to invigorate and better penetrate the scalp. When I’m in a time crunch, I’ll try to leave it on for at least an hour, but ideally I’ll leave it on overnight. Post-mask, not only does my hair feel softer and healthier but also looks shinier.

PSA: use a shower cap or towel to wrap your hair for the sake of your pillowcase. And remember to give your hair an extra rinse (or two) when washing it off to get all the oil out.

For the Skin: Honey, Yogurt and Turmeric Face Mask

Honey is a powerful antioxidant with antibacterial properties that reduce the appearance of blemishes. Yogurt is an effective moisturizer that can prevent premature wrinkles and fine lines. Turmeric is known to be a powerhouse antioxidant with anti-inflammatory and brightening properties. So much so that in South Asian culture, there’s a whole ceremony dedicated to applying it on a bride, so she can glow and radiate on her big day!

In a small bowl, mix about a tablespoon of yogurt, a tablespoon of honey, and a teaspoon of potent turmeric until you get a paste-like consistency. Apply to a freshly cleansed face—I usually just use my fingers. Let it absorb for about 15-20 minutes and rinse with warm water. Post-mask, my skin feels hydrated and looks brighter and more radiant.

PSA: If the turmeric stains your skin, don’t worry, it won’t last long!

Thanks again, mom!

Illustrations by Christina Fung