A facial is not for everyone. You either love it or you don’t. If you love it, it is the ultimate in pampering. If you don’t, we think you’re crazy. Just kidding. We totally get that it’s not your thing, and it might take some getting used to, but we think it’s worth enduring for the end result of pretty skin.
Now, back to our obsession with facials. If you have never gotten one before, it’s basically a sauna for your face. Steam is used to soften skin and “open” pores so that dead cells and blackheads can be easily removed. Facials also include the application of a mask to infuse moisture or nutrients into your skin, along with a light massage to stimulate blood flow.
Professional facials can be pricey, so if you’re strapped for cash, give yourself a facial at home. It sounds tricky, but there are really just one or two things you need to purchase. Everything else can be found in your kitchen or bathroom. Voila — you just created your own mini spa without leaving the comfort of your home.
Ingredients you’ll need:
– A large pot
– Water
– Lavender (optional)
– Rosemary (optional)
– Chamomile (optional)
– Eucalyptus (optional)
– A washcloth
– A clay or mud mask
– A moisturizing mask
– Light facial lotion
How to do it:
1. Wash face with a mild soap or cleanser and exfoliate with a gentle grain scrub.
2. Bring to boil a large pot of water. To make your facial a little more relaxing, add lavender, rosemary, chamomile or eucalyptus and cover.
3. Turn off the heat and let stand for 5 to 10 minutes. Using a towel to cover your head, hold your face over the pot-about 10 inches from the pot so as not to burn your skin-and stay for 5 to 10 minutes. The smaller your pores the less time you need in the steam. The steam will soften pores and make it easier to extract dirt and oil.
4. Wipe face with a clean, warm washcloth.
5. If skin is oily, apply a clay or mud mask and follow directions. Typical drying time is 5 to 10 minutes. For dry skin, apply a moisturizing mask. For combination skin, such as an oily t-zone (forehead and nose) and dry face, apply the moisturizing mask to dry areas and the clay or mud mask to oily areas.
6. Rinse with cold water to reduce pores.
7. Moisturize with a light facial lotion.
8. Stare at your glowing skin in the mirror — pretty sweet, huh?
