Ever wonder why expensive skin creams boast ingredients originally derived from food sources, such as alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids and salicylates from fruit, vitamin E, vitamin C, green tea, honey, banana, etc.? Because research shows these compounds often have dermatological benefits when applied to the skin.

But why spend a fortune on skin care products when natural recipes - with gentle fruit enzymes and acids, exfoliating seeds, antimicrobial agents, and potent antioxidants -- can be whipped up right in your kitchen? We'll show you how to create your own homemade beauty treatments with easily found and inexpensive items. They're a great way of using over-ripe fruits instead of throwing them out.

Natural moisturizing ingredients include bananas, avocados and jojoba oil. Natural exfoliators include pineapple, strawberries, papaya and brown sugar. Honey acts as both a natural humectant and disinfectant. Green tea is a powerful antioxidant. The beauty benefits of these and other ingredients are explored at greater length in each of the following recipes.

The actual Dole Wellness Center and Spa is expected to be completed in March 2006. But you don't have to wait to start enjoying the benefits of natural beauty. So go on, get gorgeous!