Facial masks – What are they and why would I want one? At first glance, a facial mask seems to be one of the steps in pampering yourself during a facial. But it's more than that; masks have a job to do. They revitalize, nourish, refresh, and sooth your skin.
You can buy mask preparations from the store, but why not try making one with homemade ingredients? You will not only know all the ingredients involved and will be able to pronounce them, you will save money as well.
Depending on what ingredients you use, the mask can contain fruit extracts, vitamins, and minerals. You will use different ingredients in your mask depending on what you want – toning, exfoliating, or deep cleaning. Also, take into consideration your skin type and how much time you have to mix the mask ingredients together and leave it on. Keep in mind some masks are drippy and can make a mess. Also, be sure to wash your face before you start so you're working with a clean surface.
Homemade Facial Masks
Oily Skin
Egg whites, beaten, and about 1/4 teaspoon of lemon juice.
Pureed tomatoes with enough flour to make a thin paste.
1 teaspoon lemon juice and oatmeal, blended in the blender.
Applesauce, 1 tablespoon honey, and enough flour to thicken.
Dry Skin
Mashed avocado.
Mashed ripe banana.
Flour and yogurt – creamy consistency, not pasty.
1/2 mashed banana, 1 tablespoon honey, 2 tablespoons sour cream.
Scrubs
Brown sugar and enough milk to make a thin paste.
Honey and oats
Baking soda with a small amount of water.
When you're done, wash off your facial mask with warm water and immediately apply a moisturizer while your skin is still damp. This helps lock in the moisture. If you have some of the mixture leftover, you can apply it to other areas of the skin. The masks for oily skin can help your feet, hands, or elbows.
One last thing… remember all those TV movies you've seen where women in bathrobes are relaxing at a spa with cucumbers over their eyes? Well, placing thin cucumber slices over your eyes will help reduce the puffiness of the skin around your eyes. It also gives you an excuse to close your eyes and relax.
A facial mask can give your skin just the boost it needs and you can do them regularly for lasting benefits. There are some for you to try in this article, but there are many more I haven't listed that can work just as well for rejuvenating and nourishing your skin.
