April 13, 2011

DIY Masks

During my recent travel I learned how women in other countries are not always able to spend money on skin care products. However, they still take care of their skin with homemade masks and potions. How exciting!!! So, after some research I would like to introduce you to some powerful skincare that is most likely already stored in your vault aka your kitchen!!! This is a great way to not only save money, but also be green since you won’t be wasting your food or wasting through packaging.
Egg yolk -- Egg yolks are high in vitamin A, a common ingredient in acne-fighting products. Spread on face and neck and leave on skin for 30 minutes. Wash with cool water.
Egg white -- Beat egg white until frothy and spread on face. Wait until it dries and rinse off with warm water. You will instantly feel a lifting effect because of the protein in egg whites.
Grapes – Full of very powerful antioxidants, called polyphenols, which helps against aging. Cut one grape in half and rub lightly all over face.
Banana -- Bananas are one of the most nourishing fruits available because they contain magnesium, potassium, iron, zinc, iodine, folic acid, and vitamins A, B, and E. Mash one banana and spread onto face. Wash off after 15 to 30 minutes with water.
Plain yogurt -- Yogurt contains alpha-hydroxy acids, including lactic acid, which is commonly used to help reduce the appearance of fine wrinkles. It's also rich in B-complex vitamins, including B-5, or panthothenic acid, which is commonly used to promote skin healing. Apply on face and wash off after 15 to 20 minutes.
Milk -- Like yogurt, milk contains lactic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid. Swab on face with cotton ball, leave on until your skin feels tight. Rinse off with warm water. Your skin will feel baby-soft afterwards.
Honey -- A humectant, honey, attracts and retains moisture, so it's great for anyone who has dry skin. Use a cloth damp with warm water and pat skin to open pores. Smear honey onto skin and leave on for 15 to 30 minutes. Wash off with warm water, then pat skin with a cloth dampened in cold water to close pores. Instant facial!
Olive oil -- Olive oil is a source of squalene, a natural moisturizer used in a lot of skincare. Natural antioxidants found in olive oil include A and E vitamins, as well as some polyphenols. Dab on lips at bedtime if chapped or leave on face overnight.  
Avocado -- The fruit is rich in vitamins, A, C, E, iron, potassium, niacin, and pantothenic acid. Mash avocado, then leave on skin for 10 minutes. Wash off with warm water.
Baking soda – This can be used as an exfoliant for face by adding to your regular facial cleanser or body wash. It also helps neutralize skin's pH.
Hope that helps!! Feel free to share any diy skincare secrets with me and don't forget to follow my blog!! xoxo