"Milady's Standard Cosmetology" states that facial peels remove dead skin cells, oi bacteria, dirt and grime from the face. These clarifying treatments strip your face of natural and environmental contaminants, affording you a clean slate to moisturize and tone your complexion to perfection. A DIY facial peel can be made at home from ingredients found in your pantry or local grocery store for a fraction of the cost of over-the-counter preparations or similar spa treatments. The fruits used in homemade facial peels provide natural acids that help to treat a number of skin conditions.
Step 1
Choose an acidic fruit to benefit your skin type. "Naturally Skinsational" notes that strawberries contain salicylic acid, a major component in over-the-counter acne products. Apricot and carrots benefit normal and dry skin, while lemon juice and tomatoes are too harsh for these skin types and benefit people with more oily complexions, notes beauty expert Brigitte Mars in "Beauty by Nature."
Step 2
Mix a 1/2 cup of your chosen fruit or fruit juice with a tablespoon of plain gelatin. Gelatin gives the peel texture and allows you to pull it off in one swift movement after the treatment is over, as noted in "Beauty and the Budget."
Step 3
Place the ingredients in a microwave-safe container. Microwave the ingredients on medium heat for one minute, or until the mixture is melted.
Step 4
Place the mixture into the refrigerator until it thickens, approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Don't allow the gelatin to set; this will render the mixture useless, as it cannot be applied when the gelatin is solid.
Step 5
Apply the mixture to your face, avoiding your eyes, mouth and nostrils. Allow the mixture to dry on your face.
Step 6
Peel the dried mask from your face gently. Rinse your face using cool water, scrubbing with a clean cotton cloth to remove excess residue. Moisturize if necessary.
Tips and Warnings
- Face peels are drying. Avoid using them more than once a week, at minimum. The "Natural Beauty Recipe Book" recommends a moisturizing facial mask if you find your skin becomes too dry after using a facial peel.
- DIY treatments aren't meant to replace professional care. If you're worried about the condition of your skin or are experiencing problems with the skin on your face, speak to your doctor or dermatologist about the treatment options that are right for you.
Things You'll Need
- Fruit
- Plain gelatin
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Microwave
- Refrigerator
- Running water
- Cotton cloth
- Moisturizer
References
- "Milady's Standard Cosmetology"; Milady Publishing Company; 2002
- "Beauty and the Budget"; Sandi Brenner; 2006
- "Naturally Skinsational: Rejuvenating Skin Care Recipes"; Sue Dolan; 2009
- "Natural Beauty Recipe Book"; Gill Farrer-Halls; 2006
- "Beauty by Nature"; Brigitte Mars; 2006
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