Good quality skincare does not have to be expensive. Before the advent of commercial products, people pampered their complexions with natural ingredients such as fruits, oils and milk. In fact, a number of manufacturers continue to use these traditional treatments as the basis for today's products. Instead of shelling out for "all-natural" and "organic" facial treatments, however, enterprising individuals can save money by making them at home.
Basics
Yogurt is a common ingredient in homemade facial treatments. Used alone, yogurt functions as a mild, nonabrasive exfoliating cleanser. It is a source of lactic acid, which penetrates and helps break down the surface layer of skin for easier removal. Yogurt also serves as a good base for numerous other ingredients, including honey and oatmeal. According to "The Green Beauty Guide," honey helps transform the treatment into an antibacterial cleanser, while oatmeal adds an extra exfoliating kick.
Treatment
A mere 1/4 cup of yogurt is enough for a single, basic facial treatment. The yogurt can be used alone or combined with one or more ingredients. Users should experiment with ingredients---and quantities---to determine the best facial treatment for their skin. To create an easily spreadable paste, "The Green Beauty Guide" recommends using a fork or stick blender to combine the ingredients evenly.
Method
Yogurt-based facial treatments may be used daily in place of store-bought cleansers and other exfoliating products. To apply, use clean, dry fingertips to spread the treatment over the entire face. Allow the yogurt to sit for five to 10 minutes; then wash it off with lukewarm water.
Aftercare
Moisturizing is an important part of any homemade facial treatment. According to the book "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Beautiful Skin," an effective moisturizer is one that contains an "oil or oil-like substance that spreads out smoothly to create an even layer over the skin surface." Pure oils such as olive and vitamin E offer an inexpensive, all-natural way to lock in moisture for smooth, hydrated skin.
Considerations
There is no right or wrong way to make a homemade facial treatment. In the long run, this grants the freedom to customize home remedies according to individual skin types and needs. For instance, people with acne-prone skin may use oatmeal for greater exfoliation, while those with dry skin may experiment with oils to find the ideal moisturizer.
Though the ability to personalize skin care is a benefit of do-it-yourself treatments, it may be intimidating to those just starting out. The trick to finding a recipe that works is to begin with a basic ingredient---for instance, 1/4 cup yogurt---and try out different ingredients over time.
References
- "The Green Beauty Guide"; Julie Gabriel; 2008
- "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Beautiful Skin"; Marsha Gordon, M.D. and Alice E. Fugate; 1998
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