Avocados are rich in taste and nutrition and one of nature's most nutrient-dense foods. They're cholesterol-free, sodium-free, low in saturated fat and loaded with dietary fiber, vitamins B6, C, E and potassium. Avocados also contain lutein and phytochemicals which are natural plant nutrients that help protect against a variety of cancers and diseases.

Avocado is high in fat, but fat in avocados is the healthful, monounsaturated variety, shown to reduce cholesterol levels and helps to decrease the risk of heart disease and stroke and one more reason to enjoy healthy avocados, on a daily basis!

Not only are avocados a source of good nutrition, but they're also good for your skin. So, it's not surprising that avocados are being used to develop various new healthy skin and hair care products.

Researchers have found that avocado oil penetrates the skin quickly. Skin most needed vitamins A, C, and E, found in avocados, are in a rare water-soluable form. Research has show that vitamins A, C, and E reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles. As a result, cosmetic companies around the world are exploring the use of avocados in skin enhancement products. Avocados are also rich in the antioxidants, vitamin E and glutathione that prevent damage from free radicals and have the ability to stimulate collagen rebuilding.

Treat yourself to a relaxing facial or a refreshing body scrub with avocados. These avocado recipes are easy to make and try at home.

Avocado Facial Masque for Oily Skin - Blend the pulp of 1/2 of a ripe avocado, one egg white, and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Apply the masque immediately on a freshly washed face and neck. Lie back with your head elevated for 30 minutes. Gently remove the masque with warm water using a face cloth. Pat dry and finish with your favorite skin toner and moisturizer.

Avocado Facial Masque for Dry Skin - Blend the pulp of one ripe avocado, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1/4 cup of milk until smooth. Apply the masque immediately on a freshly washed face and neck. Lie back with your head elevated for 30 minutes. Gently remove the masque with warm water using a face cloth. Pat dry and finish with your favorite skin toner and moisturizer.

Avocado Body Scrub - Mash the pulp of 1/2 ripe avocado with half cup of cornmeal. After cleansing face and body, apply the mixture and gently rub for a few minutes. Rinse with warm water using a washcloth. Finish by splashing on skin toner and moisturizer. This scrub is the best for oily skin.

Avocado Hair and Scalp Pack - Mash the pulp of 1 ripe avocado and mix well with juice from 1/2 lemon. Wash and thoroughly wet hair with warm water. Rub avocado mixture into hair and scalp while still warm. This will help the natural oil from the avocado to penetrate more easily. Cover with a shower cap and wait 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse hair and shampoo as usual.

Avocado Eye Treatment - Peel and slice an avocado into quarter inch crescents. Place under eyes and lie down for 25 to 30 minutes. Best for correcting under-eye puffiness.