Everyone jokes that every family needs a lawyer and a doctor, but I’d like to add make up artist to that list. My cousin Erica is a fabulous professional makeup artist and the beauty blogger behind Pretty Pleased, her site featuring beauty tips and tricks, her insider advice. I thought she could bring a little of that beauty wisdom over to The Kitchy Kitchen, so she’ll be here blogging once a month. Stay tuned for all things pretty and lovely!

In addition to creams, exfoliants, and moisturizers, what you eat has a direct correlation with your skin.  The ingredients in this beauty smoothie helps with a whole slew of stuff like anti-aging, redness, hydration, acne; and it tastes delicious.

In addition to some sweetness, pineapple contains alpha-hydroxy acid – an ingredient in wrinkle creams, and a rich source of the antioxidant, vitamin C.  Kale also contains vitamin C, A and E, which help promote healthy cell regrowth.  Ginger does wonders for acne and oil control.  Apples, also rich in vitamin C, contain B vitamins as well that combat acne and irritation.  Cucumbers provide hydration as well as anti-inflammatory properties, vitamins B and C, zinc, iron, and folic acid.

INGREDIENTS

For 2 Smoothies

1/2 cup pineapple, chopped

1/2 cup kale, torn

1 inch segment ginger, peeled

1/3 cup apple, chopped

1 cup cucumber, chopped

DIRECTIONS

Blend all the ingredients together and add water to desired consistency.  If you like a little more kick (like me!) add more ginger, and for some creaminess, add avocado.