While spa treatments are no doubt relaxing, there’s no need to book a pricey facial to reap the benefits of a skin-softening treatment. Just turn to your kitchen for inspiration—chances are, your cupboards are already lined with the following ingredients that, when mixed together, create yummy concoctions that are deliciously good for your skin. Feel free to nibble as you nourish!
Olive oil: This common pantry staple is liquid gold for any natural face-mask lover. Extra virgin olive oil (make sure it’s unrefined for the least amount of processing) is loaded with vitamins E and K and squalene (a nourishing fatty acid), which help moisturize skin. Pair it with sea salt for an exfoliating scrub, with strawberries for radiance, or with milk and turmeric to soothe irritated skin.
Brown sugar: Because brown sugar has smaller particles than white refined sugar, it’s a gentle exfoliator. It also contains glycolic acid, which fights bacteria, and it is a natural humectant, which retains moisture. For a particularly nice scrub, combine Manuka honey, brown sugar, coconut oil and a drop of your favorite-smelling essential oil for a special personalized treat.
Sea salt: These days, anyone with a bottle of sea salt at home can benefit from its antimicrobial and absorbent assets. Mix about half a cup of sea salt with our friend olive oil and a few drops of essential oil and you have the perfect homemade scrub. For a delectable recipe, combine equal parts raw honey and pink Himalayan sea salt for an exfoliating homemade face mask.
Bananas: This fruit is loaded with vitamin C, vitamin A, antioxidants and manganese—all of which help with boosting hydration, reducing inflammation and fighting acne. Be sure to mash up and use the banana right away; otherwise it will turn a rather unappealing brown. An easy DIY banana face mask recipe for brightening is one banana, a tablespoon of honey and a splash of lemon juice.
Honey: As you might have noticed, honey pairs well with every above-mentioned ingredient. A natural antibacterial, honey is full of antioxidants, so it’s helpful for acne, cleanses pores and provides a moisturizing boost. You can also do a light homemade face mask of pure raw honey—just smooth it onto damp skin and rinse off after about 30 minutes.
If you don’t have the time or patience to raid your kitchen pantry for an at-home spa day, check out our premium skin care products, made with organic botanical ingredients.
Important note: Always test these ingredients on a patch of skin before full immersion, just in case you have a reaction.