According to Avi Shai, author of the "Handbook of Cosmetic Skin Care," facial masks deeply and effectively cleanse the skin while removing dead skin cells and supplying the skin with moisture. In order to work effectively, however, they must contain the correct ingredients. For a cleansing mask, gentle, natural ingredients such as honey and yogurt work best. The addition of exfoliating ingredients may also prove beneficial in a facial cleansing mask, but only if your skin is already healthy and clear.
Step 1
Add the yogurt and honey to a small mixing bowl. Stir with a wire whisk until smooth and well combined. Yogurt and honey both contain antibacterial properties, and they cleanse, soothe, soften and nourish the skin.
Step 2
Add the sea salt, if using, and stir until thoroughly incorporated. Leave the salt out if you have very sensitive skin, or if you have open wounds, acne or inflammation.
Step 3
Use the facial cleanser mask immediately, and discard any unused portion after use. Mix a new batch for each application to ensure maximum effectiveness and freshness.
Step 4
Spread the mixture over your clean, dry face and neck, massaging it in gently with your fingertips. Leave the mask on for five to 10 minutes, and then rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Tips and Warnings
- For the best results, use only whole yogurt with no added flavors or colors. According to Salt Works, an American salt company, Dead Sea salt contains vitamins and minerals capable of slowing skin aging, preventing water retention, increasing circulation, balancing skin moisture, and replenishing minerals that are critical to skin metabolism. It also exfoliates and removes dead skin cells, but is not suitable for sensitive, acne-prone or inflamed skin. After rinsing, apply an astringent toner or splash your face with cold water to close the pores, and then apply a gentle moisturizer.
Things You'll Need
- 1 cup plain whole yogurt
- 2 1/2 tbsp. pure honey
- Small mixing bowl
- Wire whisk
- 1 tsp. Dead Sea salt (optional)
References
- Gloves in a Bottle: Yogurt is Not Just Good Food, It's Healthy Dry Skin Treatment
- Salt Works: The Benefits of Dead Sea Salt
- "Handbook of Cosmetic Skin Care"; Avi Shai, Howard I. Maibach, Robert Baran; 2002
- "Organic Living"; Michael Van Straten; 2001
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