The following ingredients may sound like the makings of what could be a nutritious breakfast smoothie or two, but did you know that some health foods provide just as many benefits when applied topically to the skin? Next time you’re in the mood for a little pampering sesh at home, get creative with these easy-to-make natural face masks that’ll have you glowing from the inside out—or should we say—the outside, in?
OATS
Perfect for even the most sensitive skin, oatmeal is hypoallergenic and contains anti-inflammatory properties which can help treat mild cases of acne, eczema and rosacea. Not only is it super moisturising and an effective exfoliant thanks to its soft granule texture, but oats contain a natural cleansing agent called saponin which helps wash away impurities whilst gently removing dead skin cells.
How-to: Mix 4 tbsp. of rolled oats and 1 tbsp. of honey into a small bowl until even consistency. Apply to face and let sit for 15-20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
HONEY
A natural antiseptic, honey possesses superior antibacterial enzymes that work to unclog pores and keep breakouts at bay. Also said to help fade blemishes and diminish the appearance of scars, honey is both soothing and hydrating and will leave your skin feeling clean and refreshed. Try and opt for either raw or Manuka to reap the most benefits.
How-to: Apply a thin layer of honey to slightly damp skin using a circular motion. Leave for at least 20 minutes and rinse off with warm water.
BANANA
Known as ‘nature’s botox’, bananas are rich in potassium and vitamins E, B6 & C which work to intensely hydrate cells and strengthen connective tissue to help maintain skin elasticity. The inner surface of the peel also reduces puffy eyes as the high potassium content helps draw excess fluid from the skin and minimise swelling. Who knew?!
How-to: Get a small bowl and mash up a ripe banana with the back of a fork. Apply evenly to your face, leave for 15 minutes and rinse with cold water.
AVOCADO
Okay, so avo sounds way more appealing in your guac than on your face—but they do in fact contain nourishing oils that are renowned for revitalising dry and dehydrated skin. Loaded with vitamins E and C, good fats and antioxidants, avocados act as a brilliant moisturiser that penetrates deep into your pores to promote clear, glowing skin.
How-to: Simply mash up half an avocado and spread evenly on your face, leave on for 10-15 minutes, wash with warm water and gently pat dry.
CUCUMBER
Thanks to their high water content, cucumbers are a natural cooling agent and an excellent source of hydration for the skin. Additionally, the peel in particular contains silica—a trace mineral that contributes greatly to strengthening connective tissue and in turn, is responsible for firm and tight skin.
How-to: Puree 1 refrigerated cucumber in a blender. Transfer into a small bowl and massage mixture onto your face using a circular motion. Let sit for 15 minutes before rinsing off with cold water. Alternatively, place two slices over puffy, tired eyes for an instant refresh.
BLUEBERRIES
Blueberries, when digested, work wonders for a younger, clearer complexion. Same goes when applied directly onto your face. The antioxidants found in this superfood help protect against premature signs of ageing and increases elasticity and collagen production. Blueberries also work to neutralise oil levels which subsequently prevents breakouts and evens out skin tone.
How-to: Mash up a handful of blueberries, 1 tbsp. of oats and a drizzle of honey in a small bowl. Massage into damp skin and let sit for 10-15 minutes. Rinse with water and pat dry.
COCONUT OIL
Especially great for those who work in an air-conditioned office all day, applying coconut oil to your face at night will help seal in lost moisture, rehydrate dull skin and protect from free radical damage by creating a physical barrier. It is naturally antibacterial and also contains essential fatty acids that will keep skin looking and feeling soft and supple. Go for the organic, unrefined type.
How-to: Gently massage a thin layer to a cleansed face. Wait 5-10 minutes for oil to absorb into the skin before patting away any excess residue with a cotton towel.
