Skin is the body’s largest organ, and we must give it the love and care it needs, especially now during the winter months. Facial products are sometimes expensive and out of reach, add to that the harmful chemicals some contain – but we have a solution!
Many ingredients can be used to make nourishing facial masks at home, most already in your pantry, herbs/spices cabinet or vegetable/fruit rack. From turmeric, olive oil, raw honey etc., you can make a unique mask that will leave your skin with a beautiful, healthy glow. If you don’t already have any of the ingredients we’ll discuss below, shop online from the Boxer offers here – they have extremely good fresh produce at reasonable prices, or visit your local farmers’ market and grocery stores to get you started. Read on.
You can concoct several masks in your kitchen based on what your skin needs. Some are for oily skin, some to treat acne and acne scars, and some are moisturising to cater for the dry skin that comes with the winter months. Below, we will tell you about three nourishing ones to give your skin a beautiful glow, despite the cold and gloomy weather.
1.Oats Mask
Oats contain 18 amino acids essential for maintaining healthy skin. Amino acids also help to rebuild tissue and promote healing for the body. An oats face mask aids the absorption of the amino acids, helping skin heal blemishes and repair any damage to it. They also contain avenanthramadines and anti-inflammatory compounds, all great for soothing dry, itchy and irritated skin. Find a few oats face mask recipes here.
2.Banana Mask
Yes, the humble banana, which most of us have in our homes, makes for an amazing face mask. They contain potassium, vitamin B-6, vitamin C and traces of vitamin A. The silica in bananas can help increase collagen production, the natural proteins that keep skin hydrated and smooth. The different banana face masks have been shown to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and make your skin glow as they contain antioxidants as well. Bananas also reduce inflammation caused by acne, boost your skin’s natural ability to prevent sun damage and help treat acne scars. Try chopping up half a banana and mix it with a teaspoon of honey. Mash it up and apply it to your face for 15-20mins, then wash off with warm water. The results will amaze you.
3.Cucumber Mask
Cucumbers are rich in vitamin K, molybdenum, pantothenic acid, potassium, vitamins C and B1, copper, manganese, biotin, magnesium and phosphorus. They are packed full of nutrients that are spectacular for the skin! Cucumbers are also 96% water; therefore, they are naturally moisturising – whether for your skin or eaten in a salad. The benefits of using cucumber face masks include:
-soothe irritated skin,
-help combat premature ageing because of the vitamins component in them, and
– help reduce swelling and puffiness.
There are several face mask recipes available; pick one here and go with what your skin needs.
There are plenty of other foods that you can use in your kitchen to make a face mask, like sugar, coconut oil, or egg whites. The decision to make your own mask must be based on what your skin needs at the time. Be sure to do a patch test so you can spot allergic reactions quickly and safely. Making your own mask is inexpensive and safe. Enjoy!
