Beetroot is an extraordinarily nutrient-rich food and high in antioxidants, but you may already have noticed that, in addition, when you eat it it can colour your urine red. That colouring superpower can be used to create very natural homemade cosmetics.
Precisely beetroot is the DIY formula proposed by the natural cosmetics expert and artisan Marcela Burgos, author of Beauty and Natural Cosmetics (RBA Integral) and a regular contributor to Cuerpomente. It concerns a blush, a natural blush that adds colour to your cheeks without chemicals. You can also use beetroot to make hydrating or exfoliating homemade masks. And thus, what begins as a curious idea ends up being a gateway to a healthier, more sustainable and versatile approach to facial care.
Las propiedades de la remolacha en la cosmética natural
Beetroot (or its powder/juice) contains vitamin C, antioxidants such as betalains, minerals and substances that promote circulation and skin hydration. That combination helps to improve skin tone, impart radiance, calm mild inflammations and promote a healthier-looking complexion.
Moreover, the natural pigments of beetroot can provide a subtle blush, that rosy, healthy glow without the need for synthetic dyes or chemical colourants. Therefore, for Marcela Burgos it makes sense to turn it into a natural alternative for makeup or facial and body care treatments.
Cómo preparar un blush natural de remolacha con la air fryer
For many people, the air fryer has represented a revolution in the kitchen, but you may be surprised to learn that it is also useful for making homemade cosmetic ingredients, as you will see in Marcela Burgos’s instructions for making beetroot blush:
- Wash and cut a large beet into cubes.
- Boil it in 125 ml of filtered water and let the liquid reduce by half.
- When it is warm, strain it through a piece of cheesecloth.
- Mix 2 tablespoons of cornflour with 2 tablespoons of this juice to form a paste.
- Spread the preparation on a plate and place it in a well-ventilated, dark place until dry flakes form. If you want to speed up the process, you can use an oven or an air fryer at 40°C, taking care not to burn the mixture.
- Once dry, grind the flakes in a coffee grinder until you obtain a fine powder.
This blush is applied with a brush to the cheekbones, and if you’re after a sun-kissed effect, also on the bridge of the nose.
Mascarilla facial con remolacha
But beetroot doesn’t stop at makeup. Its versatility allows multiple applications: masks, toners, exfoliants, moisturisers or soothing treatments.
For example, beetroot powder or juice mixed with yoghurt, honey or aloe vera gel can serve as a facial mask that brightens the complexion and improves its texture.
It is also possible to use it in gentle exfoliants by mixing it with sugars and oils, which helps to renew the skin gently.
Beneficios de la remolacha para la piel
Thanks to its antioxidants, beetroot helps combat oxidative damage, which can contribute to delaying signs of ageing such as fine lines or a loss of firmness.
Its vitamin C content supports collagen production, which promotes elasticity and a healthy texture.
Moreover, its anti-inflammatory properties can soothe mild irritations, reduce redness and promote a more balanced complexion.
For dull, dry or fatigued skin, topical use, combined with a proper diet, can bring radiance and softness.
Precautions when using beetroot in DIY cosmetics
Although beetroot is natural, that doesn’t mean it is risk-free. If used raw or in excess, it can stain the skin or leave a temporary pink tint.
That’s why it’s wise to perform a patch test on a small area of the skin before applying any mask or tint.
Nor is it advisable to use it on irritated skin, with wounds or if you are prone to allergic reactions. If you have very sensitive skin, it’s best to consult a dermatologist before incorporating it.
On the other hand, artisanal products should be prepared just before use, especially if they contain fresh juice, as they can degrade over time.
Integrar cosmética de remolacha en tu rutina: bueno, bonito y natural
If you want to take a step towards cleaner, more respectful cosmetics, beetroot can become one of your allies.
Start small, use a homemade blush for casual occasions, try a moisturising mask once a week, and observe how your skin responds.
Pair these treatments with a diet rich in vegetables, water and rest, as internal health also influences the skin.
