Dark chocolate and cocoa have been proven to be good for your heart, your brain and for chronic conditions. Did you know that it is beneficial for your skin not only from eating it but from applying it topically? Chocolate does seem to help soften the skin. It nourishes, hydrates, protects. It brings magnesium, iron, A, B1, B2, D & E vitamins. It is also rich in antioxydant polyphenols and astringent tannins and actives. The theobromine of cacao has a thermogenetic activity, it redensifies the skin. Its phytosterols have anti-age virtues.
The anti-oxidant properties in cocoa could prevent free radicals from damaging the skin’s elastin, collagen and other protein. Therefore chocolate can maintain the skin’s healthy complexion as well as prevent visible signs of age such as wrinkling. Dark chocolate, in particular, has a very high anti-oxidant potential.
Eating flavanol rich dark chocolate or cocoa everyday has shown an increase in skins density and
moisture and a reduction in roughness and scaliness. In another study, woman drinking a cocoa beverage daily showed a 15% reduction in skin reddening from UV light after 6 weeks. After 12 weeks, the number increased to 25%.
Chocolate is loaded with natural essential fatty acids, which is what plumps up the skin, and it also contains linolic acid, an anti-oxidant, which acts as an anti-aging agent. Mature skin would benefit most from chocolate skin care products, but almost all skin types can use chocolate, with the exception of sensitive skin, which can redden.
Over the years, chocolate has been consistently blamed for acne. Dark chocolate may actually help prevent acne as it contains serotonin which produces a calming effect in the brain. Dark chocolate stimulates the release of serotonin which in turn relieves the stress stimulating acne eruptions.
Cocoa Butter is obtained from the fruit of the Cacao tree. It has the beautiful, rich aroma of dark chocolate. Cocoa butter is an emollient that has been used for centuries to heal and moisturize skin that has been exposed to the elements. It is known to help reduce the formation of stretch marks during pregnancy by keeping the skin supple and improving elasticity. So try some dark chocolate, try some cocoa, try some cocoa butter – inside or out – it will do your body good. More information about the benefits of chocolate may be found in Chocolate is Healthy! by Annmarie Kostyk.
Chocolate Facial Mask
Ingredients:
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa or finely ground dark chocolate (over 70%)
1/4 cup of honey
1 egg yolk
3 teaspoons oatmeal (good for sensitive skin, also optional)
Preparation:
Mix all the ingredient until the mass in consistent. Apply on the face in a smooth, even application. Leave it on for about 20 minutes and rinse off with lukewarm water and a soft wash cloth. Lightly pat dry and follow with your usual moisturizer.
