Many people enjoy having a facial, but not everyone enjoys paying a spa $100 and up to get one. With the help of Shizuka Bernstein, owner of Shizuka New York spa, we've put together some cheap and edible facials and a body scrub you can make at home, often for $5 or less.
PHOTOS: Learn how to mix and apply the masks and body scrub.
Pumpkin Enzyme Mask
Natural enzymes in pumpkin help to peel away (exfoliate) dead cells, revealing smoother and brighter skin. Pumpkin facial products can cost up to $80, but this quick and easy mask can be created in your own kitchen with leftovers from parties and other celebrations. This mask is a great clarifying treatment for those with oily and combination skin types.
1/4c Pumpkin Purée
1 Tsp Ground Cinnamon
1 Tsp Grated Fresh Ginger
3 Tsp Honey
Juice of 1/2 a Lemon
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk together. Lightly massage onto clean, dry skin and let the mask sit for 5 -10 minutes. Rinse the skin well with lukewarm water and pat the skin dry.
Matcha Green Tea Facial Mask
Shizuka’s Matcha Green Tea Mask is appropriate for all skin types, but especially effective for those with mature and aging skin. Full of powerful antioxidants, Matcha (green tea) powder is easy to find online, or at your favorite Asian specialty store. As an alternative, cut open a few natural green tea bags (beware of additives and flavored green teas). Silken tofu adds a luxurious texture while hydrating and soothing the skin. Honey and lemon exfoliate and brighten the complexion.
Ingredients:
2 Tbsp Matcha (green tea) Powder
1/3 Cup Soft Silken Tofu
1 Tbsp Honey
Juice of 1/2 a Lemon
Use paper towels or a fine cheesecloth to squeeze excess moisture from the tofu. The resultant texture will resemble a moist feta cheese. Whisk the ingredients together in a non-reactive bowl. Apply to clean, dry skin on the face, neck and décolleté areas. Turn on your favorite relaxation music and leave the mask on for 10 - 15 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water, pat your skin dry, and apply your favorite all-natural moisturizer.
Hydrating Oatmeal Body Mask
Oatmeal is the perfect natural remedy for dry and itchy skin. This delightfully delicious mask is a favorite for dry climates and during the winter season. It soothes and hydrates the skin.
Ingredients:
1c prepared plain oatmeal (leftover from the breakfast pot is perfect)
1/2c whole milk (please do not substitute skim)
3 tbsp honey
After cleansing your body, restart your shower or bath water on hot and close the bathroom door to collect steam. Combine the oatmeal, whole milk and honey in a food processor and purée until smooth. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and microwave for 30 – 60 seconds, until warm, but not scorching. You may now stir in a few drops of your favorite essential oil for added aromatherapy (optional). Return to your bathroom with the heated mask. Massage the mask into your skin in the steam-filled bathroom and let it sit for up to 10 – 15 minutes. Lower the water temperature to warm, and rinse off. Lightly towel dry and immediately apply your favorite moisturizer.
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