4 DIY Face Masks Using Kitchen Staples

 

I get it. With thousands of beauty treatments out there, finding one that’s actually beneficial for your skin and easy on your wallet is easier said than done. And while splurging on a luxurious spa treatment is one of my favorite forms of self care, I’ve found that many of those kitchen staples we have hiding in our fridges and pantries actually have incredible skin-loving qualities.

Likewise, given the need to self quarantine and social distance these days with the coronavirus craziness, now’s the time to take advantage of what we have on hand! Embrace staying home by slipping in a little self care to support your health in mind, body and spirit.

Whatever your skin type, these simple, DIY masks will leave you glowing and feeling pampered, no appointment necessary .

The Hydrator

Though the cold weather is breaking in many places, dry skin is a year-round reality for many of us. Avocado is a superstar in the moisture department thanks to its high levels of vitamin E and potassium that deeply nourish. Plus, cacao’s powerful antioxidants and honey’s natural anti-inflammatory abilities soothe dryness and irritation. This completely edible mask leaves your skin silky and plumped in minutes.

Here’s How:

• 1/2 avocado
• 1 tbsp cacao (or cocoa) powder
• 1 tbsp honey

Place avocado in a bowl, and mash completely.  Add cacao powder and honey. Mix well. Apply to skin, and allow to sit for 15-20 minutes. Wash off with warm water.

The Inflammation Buster

Only two, simple pantry ingredients are needed to reduce puffiness, inflammation and redness. Unpasteurized honey promotes skin healing and balances healthy bacteria while curcumin, the bioactive compound found in turmeric, is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Together these soothe skin and promote a healthy, natural glow.

Here’s How:

• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tbsp honey

Mix turmeric and honey together to form a paste. Apply evenly to face, and allow to sit for 10-15 minutes. Remove with cool water.

The Age Defier

Along with honey’s ability to revamp dull skin and unveil new, healthy cells, bananas likewise help reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles. The vitamin C and B-6 in bananas boost elasticity while the high level of antioxidants wards off premature aging. Combined with the exfoliating properties of yogurt, this mask will leave you with brighter, more youthful skin in the most natural way.

Here’s How:

• 1/2 banana
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp yogurt

Place banana in a small bowl, and mash completely. Stir in yogurt and honey. Mix well. Apply to skin, and allow to sit for 15 minutes. Remove with warm water.

The Acne Be-Gone

Head to your pantry for this simple but effective acne fighter. Oatmeal has the incredible ability to soak up excess oil and reduce bacteria overgrowth that leads to breakouts. Plus, its high level of zinc reduces inflammation while compounds called saponins naturally cleanse skin to open up clogged pores. Baking soda likewise exfoliates and balances pH levels, so this blemish-fighting mask will quickly become a part of your skin-clearing routine.

Here’s How:

• 2 tbsp oatmeal
• 1 tsp baking soda
• Water to mix

Add oats to a food processor or blender. Grind to form a powder. Place oats in a bowl, add baking soda and water, and mix completely. Apply to skin, and allow to sit for 10 minutes. Rinse with cool water. Use once weekly.

I’m so hoping you give these easy, effective face masks a try for yourself! Let me know how you like them on social media using the hashtag #goodnesswithg and tagging @goodness_with_g. Enjoy the opportunity to reboot and focus on you this week .