Face Masks from the Kitchen Pantry
7:49 PM Posted by jo
The kitchen is full of things that gives your skin a healthy boost. There is no need to worry if you run out of your facial mask. You can make your own as fancy or simple as you want from things you find at home. Re-use containers from store bought skin care products.
Cocoa is high in antioxidants which will promote healthy skin. Research has shown cocoa can reduce skin irritation and fight cellular damage if applied topically. ( Journal of Nutrition, 2006, vol.136, no 5).
For a soothing mask, mix cocoa powder with little buttermilk. The lactic acid in the buttermilk will enhance the antioxidant function and soften the skin. You can mix the cocoa with a little water if you don't have any buttermilk at home.
Avocado contains vitamin E and phytosterols which nourish the skin. The phytosterols protect the skin and lock in the moisture so avocado is very suitable for hydrating dry skin. Mix a couple of tablespoons of avocado with a tablespoon of banana and an egg yolk for a moisturizing face mask. Another way is to mash one avocado and add a drop lemon juice to create a thick paste and apply it on the face for 10 minutes.
Mix together one teaspoon of turmeric, a handful of oatmeal and one teaspoon of yogurt to make a thick paste for problem skin. Add a couple of drops of sweet almond oil if your skin is dry. Apply to the skin and let it sit for 15-20 minutes or until it dries. Rinse off with warm water. The yogurt acts on bacteria and the turmeric is considered to be an excellent tonic for blemished-prone skin. The turmeric is believed to promote a smooth and clear complexion.
Both dry skin types and combination skin benefit from a moisturizing skin mask that is nourishing and calming to the skin surface. There are endless possibilities of what can be added to a moisturizing face mask such as herbal waters, mashed papaya or avocado, seaweed extracts, oils, yogurt, honey.
For oily skin I prefer to use clay since it tightens the pores and clears impurities. Mix two tablespoons of clay with some mineral, floral or herbal water. I have also used silver shield or distilled water for the same mask. I add about three to five drops of essential oils to the clay mixture.
Brewer's yeast or one egg white can also be used for oily skin.
If you are not sure what kind of essential oils to use for your skin type you can check out my post Oils for Skin Care
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