You may think of gelatin as just a food product, however this substance can be incorporated in your beauty routine as well. The protein in the gelatin strengthens hair and nails while keeping skin healthy, especially in the upcoming winter months. Here are some DIY gelatin beauty products that will have you looking flawless.

By Angela Bonilla

Photos by Alejandra Martinez

Pore strips

What you need:

1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin

Milk

Measuring cups

Popsicle stick to apply

Disposable container

What you do:

1. Pour 1 tablespoon of the gelatin into the container.

2. Pour 1 ½ to 2 tablespoons of milk.

3. Mix together until the mix looks chunky.

4. Microwave the mix for 10 to 12 seconds and mix again.

5. Apply to problem areas such as the nose, forehead or entire face if you want.

6. Let dry for 15 minutes.

7. Peel off the hardened strip and follow up with a light moisturizer.

Blackhead Remover

What you need:

1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin

2 tablespoons of milk

Bowl

What you do:

1. Pour 1 tablespoon of gelatin and the milk in a bowl and mix.

2. Microwave the gelatin mixture for 10 seconds.

3. Dip your fingers in the bowl and apply on affected areas.

4. Leave it on for 30 minutes or until it gets stiff.

5. Peel off the dried gelatin.

Hair Mask

What you need:

1 tablespoon of unflavored gelatin

½ cup of milk or water

2 tablespoons of olive oil

1 egg

2 tablespoons of your hair conditioner

What you do:

1. Mix warm milk or water with the gelatin.  

2. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, an egg and 2 tablespoons of your hair conditioner, mixing together.

3. Apply generously on the tips of your hair.  

4. Wrap hair tightly in a plastic bag or shower cap, followed by a towel.

5. Let the hair mask set for 30 to 40 minutes.  

6. Take the wraps off of your hair and rinse, shampooing with your normal product.  

Nail Strengthener

What you need:

1 tablespoon of gelatin

Water

Glass bowl

What you do:

1. Pour the gelatin into a glass bowl.

2. Pour the water into a saucepan or tea kettle and let it boil.

3. When the water begins to boil, pour water into bowl. Mix the water and gelatin until the gelatin dissolves.

4. Let the mixture cool. After it cools, pour the mixture into a small container.

5. Put your fingernails into the mixture for two minutes.

6. Once it’s finished, wash and dry your hands.

Take your mind away from the stress of classes by making these gelatin-based beauty products and incorporating them into your beauty routine.