Published By: Gurpreet

DIY Skincare Recipes: Traditional Nigerian Ingredients for Healthy Skin

Here are some DIY skincare recipes using traditional Nigerian ingredients.

Nigerian skincare traditions have long relied on the rich natural resources found within the country. These ingredients, passed down through generations, are not only effective but also easily accessible. By incorporating these traditional Nigerian ingredients into your skincare routine, you can create natural, effective DIY treatments that promote healthy, glowing skin. 

  1. Shea Butter Body Moisturizer

Shea butter, derived from the nuts of the shea tree, is a staple in Nigerian skincare. It’s rich in vitamins A and E, which help to nourish and protect the skin, making it an excellent natural moisturiser.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of raw shea butter
  • 2 tablespoons of coconut oil (optional)
  • A few drops of essential oil (e.g., lavender or tea tree) for fragrance (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Place the shea butter and coconut oil in a mixing bowl.
  2. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add a few drops of your favourite essential oil for fragrance, if desired.
  4. Store the mixture in a clean, airtight container.
  5. Apply the shea butter moisturiser to your body after a shower to lock in moisture and keep your skin soft and hydrated.

  1. Honey and Turmeric Face Mask

Honey and turmeric are powerful ingredients that are widely used in Nigerian skincare. Honey is a natural humectant that helps retain moisture, while turmeric has anti-inflammatory and brightening properties that can help even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon of raw honey
  • 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
  • 1 tablespoon of yoghourt or milk (optional, for extra hydration)

Instructions:

  1. Mix the honey and turmeric powder in a small bowl. If you want added hydration, mix in the yoghurt or milk.
  2. Apply the mixture evenly to your face, avoiding the eye area.
  3. Leave the mask on for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Rinse off with warm water, gently massaging your skin in circular motions.
  5. Pat your face dry and follow with your regular moisturiser.

Use this mask once or twice a week to help brighten your complexion and soothe any inflammation.

  1. Black Soap Facial Cleanser

Black soap, also known as ose dudu in Yoruba, is a traditional Nigerian soap made from locally sourced plant ingredients like cocoa pod ash and plantain skin ash. It is known for its deep-cleansing properties and is effective in treating acne, eczema, and hyperpigmentation.

Ingredients:

  • A small piece of raw African black soap
  • 1 cup of distilled water
  • 1 teaspoon of raw honey (optional, for added moisture)
  • 1 teaspoon of aloe vera gel (optional, for soothing properties)

Instructions:

  1. Break the black soap into small pieces and place it in a clean bowl.
  2. Add the distilled water to the bowl and let the soap dissolve completely.
  3. Once dissolved, add the honey and aloe vera gel, if using, and stir well.
  4. Pour the mixture into a clean bottle for storage.
  5. Use the black soap cleanser daily to wash your face, massaging it gently into your skin before rinsing off with cool water.

This cleanser is suitable for all skin types but is especially beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin.

  1. Exfoliating Sugar Scrub with Coconut Oil

Sugar is a natural exfoliant that helps remove dead skin cells, leaving your skin smooth and glowing. Paired with coconut oil, which is highly moisturising and rich in antioxidants, this scrub is perfect for rejuvenating your skin.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup of coconut oil
  • 1 tablespoon of honey (optional)
  • A few drops of essential oil (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the sugar and coconut oil until you get a thick paste.
  2. Add honey for extra moisture and essential oil for fragrance, if desired.
  3. Store the scrub in a clean, airtight jar.
  4. Use the scrub in the shower, gently massaging it onto damp skin in circular motions. Focus on rough areas like elbows, knees, and feet.
  5. Rinse off with warm water and pat your skin dry.

This exfoliating scrub can be used once or twice a week to maintain smooth, radiant skin.

  1. Aloe Vera and Moringa Face Toner

Aloe vera is a soothing ingredient that helps calm irritated skin and provides hydration. Moringa, known for its high antioxidant content, helps fight free radicals and promote healthy skin.

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup of fresh aloe vera gel
  • 1 tablespoon of moringa powder or a few drops of moringa oil
  • 1/2 cup of distilled water
  • 1 teaspoon of witch hazel (optional, for added astringency)

Instructions:

  1. Mix the aloe vera gel, moringa powder or oil, and distilled water in a clean bottle.
  2. Add witch hazel if desired.
  3. Shake the bottle well to combine the ingredients.
  4. Apply the toner to your face using a cotton pad after cleansing.

This toner helps refresh your skin and prep it for moisturising, and it can be used daily as part of your skincare routine.

Incorporating traditional Nigerian ingredients into your skincare routine allows you to harness the natural benefits of these time-honoured resources. By creating DIY skincare products at home, you can enjoy healthy, glowing skin while connecting with Nigeria's rich heritage of natural beauty practices. Whether you're moisturising with shea butter, cleansing with black soap, or brightening with turmeric, these DIY recipes offer effective and affordable solutions for maintaining beautiful skin.