A cucumber is more than decoration on a salad, and oatmeal isn't just a warm breakfast food. They are just two of the countless ingredients found in your kitchen that can make your skin healthy and fresh.
Creating an at-home facial is as easy as 1-2-3: Steaming, Exfoliating, Masking.
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The proteolytic enzymes, Vitamin B1 and Vitamin C in a cucumber not only hydrate your skin but also reduce pimples, black heads and wrinkles.
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After you wash your face, follow these steps and your skin will be on its way to achieving a fresh, rejuvenating glow.
1. Getting steamy
A steam treatment opens your pores, making it easier to remove dirt and grease. The steam also relaxes your skin, allowing it to absorb and lock in moisture. Just heat about 1 quart of water in a pot, bringing it to a low boil. Then, move the pot to a nearby table and hold you face over it while you drape a towel over your head so that it catches the steam. Do this for about 2-3 minutes.
2. The "ex" factor
Now that your pores are open, exfoliating will be a breeze and much more effective. This step is vital to healthy, fresh-looking skin. Exfoliating pulls out impurities and removes dead skin cells that have been clogging pores.
Try one of these yummy recipes to make your facial scrub:
Honey Yogurt Exfoliating Facial Scrub
Mix 1 tsp sugar, 1/2 tsp honey and 1 tsp plain yogurt. Smooth mixture over your face in circular motion and leave on for 10 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water.
Oatmeal Facial Scrub
Combine 1/2 cup oatmeal, 3 tbsp almond oil and warm water to create paste. Apply to skin in circular motion and let it set for 10 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water.
3. Mask up
All masks work the same way, although they each have their own purpose. Choose the recipe that best fits your skin type. Pat the mixture onto your skin until dry, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Cucumber Facial (for oily skin)
Using a blender, mix 1/2 cucumber, 1 tsp mint, 1 tbsp lemon juice and 1 egg white. Refrigerate for 10 minutes, then apply mixture to face. Leave on for 15 minutes then rinse.
Honey Facial (for dry skin)
Mix 1 tbsp honey with 1 egg yolk. Gently pat onto your skin and leave on for 10 minutes. The honey will pull the moisture to the surface. Rinse.
Peachy Facial (for sensitive skin)
Puree 1 pitted peach and 1 egg yolk to form paste. Apply to face, and leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse.
Strawberry Facial (for pale skin)
To put some hue back in your cheeks, pour 1/2 cup of strawberries in your blender until it makes a thick paste. Apply to face and leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse.
Finishing touch
After your mask, apply a toner, which helps balance the pH of your skin for a firm, clean look. While your face is still damp from the toner, use a moisturizer to add hydration and nutrients to your skin. Here are a couple of recipes to try:
Lemon Toner
Lemon's acidity tightens skin and closes pores. Squeeze 1 lemon and mix the juice with 1/2 tsp of cold water. Pat onto your face for a cool, firming sensation.
Almond Oil Moisturizer
Pour a dab of water and 2 drops of rose almond oil into the palms of your hands. Apply to face and neck area.
We recommend treating your skin to a facial 2-3 times a week. Start now and you'll be on your way to soothed, smoothed, happier skin!
* Remember to always be aware of the ingredients used in your regimen to avoid any allergic reactions (for example, nuts are found in many facial scrubs). If your skin becomes irritated, cleanse it thoroughly with cold water.
