Do Just One Thing

By Danny Seo

If you use conventional drugstore shaving creams or gels for your face or legs, you may be unknowingly smearing a chemical cocktail on your skin. Typical brands contain chemicals like phthalates, artificial fragrance and triethanolamine, which can be endocrine disrupters, neurotoxins and possible sources of cancer. There’s no reason to take the risk. If you need a little assistance to get a close shave, just head to your kitchen and grab the coconut oil. Right after you shower and your pores are open, apply a small amount of coconut oil where you want to shave. Then use a sharp razor for baby-soft skin.

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Broccoli is considered to be a super-vegetable by many nutritionists, since the heads are nutrient-dense in vitamins B1, B6, E, calcium, iron, niacin and zinc. But did you know that broccoli leaves aren’t just edible and nutrient-rich, but also really delicious? Just as nutritious as kale, broccoli leaves shouldn’t be tossed into the trash. Just wash and treat the leaves like you would any green: Stir-fry them, massage them like you would kale for a salad or add them to soups, stews or green shakes.

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There have been news reports lately about garments that are labeled as faux fur but are actually made of real fur. The fur comes from animals like rabbits, coyotes and the wild raccoon dog. Since the science and technology for developing faux fur that looks and feels just like the real thing has evolved significantly, you might ask how you can tell which is which? Faux fur is softer than most real fur. Look at the ends of the fur: If it tapers to a fine point, it’s likely real; if the strands are consistent in width root to tip, it’s likely fake. And the final test? If you can burn a few strands, you’ll know for certain: Real fur smells like human hair being burnt.

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After using a pool towel, you might think there’s no need to wash it, since the sun’s hot rays have already dried it back to its normal state. However, you should still wash it. The combination of chlorine from the pool, salt from the ocean, sunscreen and sweat can break down the towel’s fibers if left unwashed. Also, avoid using fabric softener, as it leaves a residue that can affect the towel’s absorbency.

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While planting pollen-rich flowers is a wonderful way to support pollinators like bees, there are several other simple steps you can take to help. Leave some bare, unmulched patches of soil so ground-nesting bees can dig their tunnels. Provide a small salt lick or a sprinkle of sea salt to supply essential minerals. Plant herbs such as dill, oregano and lavender, and allow them to flower — this will attract pollinators while giving you fresh herbs to enjoy at home. Finally, place a shallow dish filled with fresh water and pebbles in your garden so bees can land safely and drink without the risk of drowning.

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Got ants? There are two easy ways to get them out of your house. First, mix 1/4 cup of peppermint castile liquid soap with a quart of water. Spray the minty, soapy mixture at entry points throughout the house where you see ants. Soap and peppermint is a combination ants hate. Next, take a look at your indoor houseplants, because unfortunately, the damp soil is the perfect environment for ants to nest. This may be the spot where all those ants are coming from. If it is, repot the plant in sterile soil and scrub the original pot clean.

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When it comes to beauty products like makeup, lipstick, brushes and sponges, it can be difficult to keep them clean and germ-free. One of the easiest ways to disinfect products without ruining them is to fill a misting bottle with isopropyl alcohol. Misting the outer layer of makeup products (like directly onto a compact or lipstick) is enough to kill germs and bacteria. Just spray and allow to naturally dissipate and dry before using. The same goes for all of the small tools, brushes and sponges you might use, too.