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5 surprising beauty uses for arrowroot

Arrowroot is a starch obtained from the rootstock of tropical plants/tubers. Popular in cooking, it is often used as a sauce/soup thickener and a replacement for gluten in baking. It has also been used as a topical treatment to promote the healing of cuts/scars and is a great, natural potassium and calcium supplement. Less commonly known are the beauty uses of arrowroot, despite its use in many everyday cosmetics. One of the most diverse and fascinatingly useful ingredients, we’ve chosen 5 of the best natural uses for arrowroot in your everyday beauty routines.

1. Lightening loose face powder. When mixed with loose face powder, it can lighten the tone by several shades. This is particularly useful for gradually adjusting the shade of holiday make-up as your tan naturally fades. It is so lightweight that it blends seamlessly into the powder and leaves skin soft and silky to touch. It also reduced the need to reapply make-up as it absorbs sweat/oils.

2. Dry Shampoo. No time to wash your hair? No problem! Massage the arrowroot into your scalp and along the first couple of inches of the length of your hair. It will absorb the oils and leave your hair bouncy and soft. Use a damp cloth to gently wipe away any remaining traces of the powder on your hair.

3. As a base for home-made make-up. Arrowroot makes a great base for DIY make-up projects. Foundations using a blend of arrowroot, cinnamon and cocoa powder are a major trend just now, particularly as you can adjust the measurements to get the shade exactly right for your skin tone. Check out some recipes here: http://wellnessmama.com/4948/homemade-makeup-recipes/

4. Clears Acne. Arrowroot absorbs oils/sebum beautifully and is also promotes natural healing as it penetrates the skin. Rubbing some into skin before bed and in the morning can reduce oil production, soften skin and dry out/heal blemishes.

5. Home-made Deodorant. Yes, arrowroot can even be used in deodorants in combination with coconut oil and essential oils. It reduces odours, moisturises the skin and helps to eliminate toxins. Magical! Check out this recipe for inspiration.