DIY facial masks to keep your skin healthy

These days, most of us are spending much time indoors with only a few necessary trips to the market to re-stock on necessary essentials. Treating your skin to a fabulous face mask that will keep your skin looking healthy and beautiful does not require a trip to the spa. You probably already have some simple ingredients available in your pantry that you can utilize to give your skin a nice boost. Keep in mind that not everything you have available in your kitchen or pantry is safe for your skin. Board certified dermatologist - AKA my husband - Dr. William Schweitzer explains that “if you have specific allergies to certain ingredients or preservatives it is best to stay away from them even while using them topically.”

Also, some natural edible ingredients contain strong peptides that can make your skin sensitive to light and can cause your skin to hyperpigment when exposed to sun light. “Start with a simple combination of two or at most three ingredients and over time you can add ingredients to your formula” Dr. Schweitzer comments.

THE BANANA MAMA

This gentle mask is perfect for all skin types and the ingredients will combine to give your skin a healthy and natural glow.

Mash half of a banana into a bowl. Add one tablespoon of honey and one tablespoon of plain yogurt. Combine well and apply to clean skin. Leave on for 20 minutes and rinse off with lukewarm water.

THE SMOOTHY MASK

This mask contains strawberries which naturally contain salicylic acid and it will benefit oily, acne prone skin.

Add into a blender a handful of strawberries, one tablespoon of turmeric and one tablespoon of honey. Blend and pour into a bowl. Add two tablespoons of oatmeal and combine. Apply this chunky mask to clean skin and leave on for 20 to 25 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water.

THE HYDRATING MASK

The main ingredient in this mask is aloe vera which has been proven to stimulate collagen production, reduce inflammation and hydrate the skin. This mask will leave your skin feeling supple and hydrated.

3 Tablespoons of aloe vera gel, 2 Tablespoons of coconut oil and 2 Tablespoons of honey. Mix everything well and apply to clean skin. Leave on 15-20 relaxing minutes.

THE TRES LECHES MASK

This mask is rich in lactic acid which will give your skin a beautiful glow. The longer you leave the mask on the brighter the glow!

Into a bowl combine 4 tablespoons of buttermilk, 2 tablespoons of yogurt and 2 tablespoons of dry milk. Apply onto clean skin and leave on for 30-45 minutes. Wash off with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser.