Aquafaba (Chickpea Juice) Uses for Health & Beauty: Face & Hair Masks
You’ve likely poured it down the drain without a second thought, but aquafaba—the liquid from canned chickpeas—is gaining fame as a versatile wonder in both the kitchen and beauty routines. This seemingly ordinary liquid is a powerhouse ingredient, celebrated for its ability to mimic egg whites in vegan cooking. It’s perfect for whipping up meringues, mousses, and more, offering a plant-based alternative that’s taking the culinary world by storm.
But the magic of aquafaba doesn’t stop at the kitchen. It’s also making waves in the beauty industry, particularly for those with combination or oily skin. Its natural properties help tighten pores and cleanse the skin, providing a simple yet effective addition to your skincare regimen. Whether you’re looking to elevate your vegan recipes or enhance your beauty routine, aquafaba might just be the ingredient you didn’t know you needed.
What is Aquafaba?
Aquafaba is the liquid that is leftover after cooking chickpeas or from canned chickpeas. It has a viscous texture and can be used as an egg replacement in many recipes, making it a popular ingredient in vegan and vegetarian cooking.
Though this chickpea juice has gained popularity for its creative food uses, it also can be used for natural and reused health and beauty products!
Aquafaba Beauty and Health Benefits
Aquafaba is not only a great egg substitute in cooking, but it also has health and beauty benefits. Let’s explore some of the ways you can use aquafaba to enhance your beauty and health.
Skin Care: Chickpea Juice Face Mask
Aquafaba can be used as a natural face mask due to its protein and starch content. The proteins in aquafaba help to tighten and firm the skin, while the starch helps to absorb excess oil and impurities. Here’s how to make an aquafaba face mask:
- Drain a can of chickpeas and save the liquid.
- Whisk the liquid until it becomes frothy.
- Apply the frothy mixture to your face and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Rinse off with warm water.
You can also add other ingredients to the mask, such as honey or lemon juice, for added benefits. Honey is a natural humectant that helps to moisturize the skin, while lemon juice helps to brighten and exfoliate.
Hair Care: Chickpea Juice Hair Mask
Aquafaba can also be used as a natural hair mask to promote healthy hair growth and shine. The proteins in aquafaba help to strengthen the hair, while the starch helps to absorb excess oil and dirt. Here’s how to make an aquafaba hair mask:
- Drain a can of chickpeas and save the liquid.
- Whisk the liquid until it becomes frothy.
- Apply the frothy mixture to your hair and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
- Rinse off with warm water and shampoo as usual.
You can also add other ingredients to the mask, such as coconut oil or avocado, for added benefits. Coconut oil helps to moisturize and nourish the hair, while avocado is rich in vitamins and minerals that promote healthy hair growth.
Reuse Chickpea Juice for More than Just Foods
Aquafaba offers a unique opportunity to enhance both your culinary and beauty routines. Its ability to transform dishes and elevate skincare and haircare regimens makes it a versatile addition to your daily life. Whether you’re looking to create recipes with aquafaba or seeking natural beauty solutions, aquafaba provides an innovative approach. Embrace this plant-based marvel and explore its potential to enrich your lifestyle, offering a sustainable and creative alternative to traditional ingredients.
