You probably already know that strawberries boast amazing health benefits when eaten. In fact,  the gorgeous red color strawberries sport is thanks to anthocyanin, a flavonoid. The vitamin C, folate, and flavonoids in strawberries are said to protect against potentially cancerous cells.  Did you know that ancient Egyptians also relied on strawberries to treat skin disorders, such as acne? Applied topically, the strawberry’s skin-saving benefits are thanks, in part,  to the fruit’s astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.

This week, I put a pint of delicious, multi-tasking strawberries to work, using them to treat skin in the form of a homemade scrub and strawberry infused  water, as well as dicing strawberries for a treat of the edible kind.  A two-for-one beauty trick sure to save you time and save your skin.

DIY Strawberry Scrub

Anna Kournikova is reportedly a fan of do-it-yourself strawberry scrubs, likely because, strawberry’s high level of alpha-hydroxy acid leaves skin exfoliated, revealing the smoother, more youthful looking skin beneath. A quick and easy way to take advantage of this little red fruit for your face is to simply cut a strawberry in half, and rub it over your skin post-shower while pores are open. Or, kick it up a notch with my Strawberry Skin Smoothie Scrub below, ideal for the entire body.

Pretty Ingredients
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup sea salt
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1/2 cup finely diced strawberries

Pretty Simple Directions
Combine all ingredients, mashing strawberries with a fork while mixing together. Store in a small mason jar at room temperature and use within three days. Apply to skin generously, rinse with warm water.

Berry Beauty Water

Nothing’s easier than infusing plain old water with strawberries.  The biggest beauty benefit of drinking infused water is simply increasing your water intake, after all, your body is constantly losing water and yet, practically every cell needs adequate water to function properly.

After cutting the tops of strawberries, slice them in half and add them to a pitcher of water. Place water in the fridge for two hours, then serve. 

Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes

Skin newly smooth, strawberry spa water in hand, strawberries diced,  it’s time to turn to a treat that will please the entire family. These delish cupcakes, adopted from a favorite food blog, confessionsofacookbookqueen.com, are a huge hit with my family and I love the multi-tasking benefits of using a pint of strawberries in three ways.

Ingredients
1 stick butter
8 ounces reduced fat cream cheese
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 cups powdered sugar
One cup finely dices fresh, organic strawberries
Whipped cream
A favorite yellow cupcake mix, homemade of boxed

Directions
Combine softened butter, softened cream cheese and vanilla. Beat on medium until smooth; then, slowly add powdered sugar. Beat until just combined.  Beat on high until fluffy; about two minutes. Finally, fold in strawberries. Put icing into piping bag with medium tip and  refrigerate.

Next, prepare cupcakes  and cool. Fill cupcakes by inserting tip into the center of cupcakes; finish by topping the cupcakes with a thin layer of filling as well. Top with whipped cream. Enjoy!