5 Amazing Benefits of Yogurt for Your Skin

1. Yogurt Keeps the Skin Nourished and Hydrated

Plain yogurt made from whole milk contains protein, vitamins A and C, B vitamins, and dietary minerals (calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, zinc). It is especially rich in vitamins B2 and B12. Thanks to these nutrients, yogurt keeps the skin soft and supple, prevents dehydration, improves the skin’s natural elasticity and firmness, and keeps it looking healthy at all times.

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2. Yogurt Helps Brighten the Skin

During the fermentation process, yogurt cultures (bacteria used to make cultured products) metabolize lactose into lactic acid. It is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that inhibits the production of tyrosinase, an enzyme that controls the production of melanin. When your skin produces less melanin, it becomes lighter and brighter since it is melanin that causes your skin tone to darken. To keep your complexion bright, pamper yourself with a yogurt face mask at least once a week.

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3. Yogurt Fights Acne

In addition to lightening the skin, lactic acid helps to inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria on the skin surface. Applying plain yogurt to your skin on a regular basis can help prevent cane breakouts and balance the skin. In addition, the lightening and exfoliating properties of lactic acid make acne scars less visible.

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4. Yogurt Soothes the Skin

In some countries, sour cream is a traditional sunburn remedy. The thing is, cultured dairy foods, like sour cream or yogurt, contain probiotics that help restore the skin’s natural barrier and speed up its healing. The soothing effect of yogurt will be more pronounced if your refrigerate it beforehand. Just take a tablespoon or so of cold plain yogurt, spread it over your sunburned skin, leave it on for about 10 minutes, than gently remove the yogurt with a damp washcloth.

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5. Yogurt Slows Down Skin Aging

Organic yogurt contains antioxidants that protect the skin against free radical damage and thus slows down the aging process. Regular face masks with yogurt will prevent dull and sagging skin, smooth out fine lines, and give your skin a youthful glow that lasts all day long.

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Note. Of course, you should only use plain, unsweetened yogurt for your at-home facial treatments. Keep in mind that pasteurized yogurt contains no beneficial bacteria; you should look for yogurts labeled as “live” or “active” (they are pasteurized, too, but contain lactic acid bacteria that are added before packaging) or use homemade yogurt.