Why You Need TWO Face Masks and Not Just ONE

Imagine that you have just prepared a delectable cake. Now, you have a beautiful cake stand that has been lying in the cupboard for the longest time. Though, you’d want to display your cake on the cake stand, you’ll need to clean it first before you display your cake on it. If you don’t, the dusty old cake stand will ruin the presentation and the taste of your scrumptious creation!

(Whew! I am finally done with the example so I hope you see where I am going with this.)

Basically, there are two kinds of face masks. One that unclogs the pores by removing the built-up goop and when your skin is squeaky clean, finally, the second one. This second face mask is what will put in the good stuff into your skin, replenish and rejuvenate it.

For the first mask, I would suggest using a clay-based face mask that can draw out all the impurities and detoxify. Follow this with a moisturizing mask like an aloe-egg mask to make your skin feel soft and glowing.

So here are two aromatherapy face masks that work in synergy to give you healthy skin.

First, the “taking out” mask. This recipe will deep clean your pores and pull out all that extra grease:

•1 ounce clay

•3 tablespoons rose water

•1 drop geranium essential oil

•2 drops grapefruit essential oil

•1 drop chamomile essential oil

This recipe is for the nourishing mask that will “put in”. It will soothe and tone your skin.

•2 teaspoons finely ground oatmeal

•3 tablespoons rose water

•1 tablespoon aloe gel

•1 drop frankincense essential oil

•1 drop neroli essential oil

•1 drop rose essential oil

For each of these masks, mix all the ingredients in a bowl to form a smooth paste. Spread the mixture over a clean, damp face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Relax for 15 minutes and rinse off well with warm water before applying a toner and moisturizer.

Make sure to use these two face masks one after another, in the same day to get the best results.

How to Clean Your Pores with a Herbal Hot Compress

A hot compress once a week is a great way to keep acne at bay and to maintain your skin’s health.

How does it work? Acne forms when oil or grime blocks your pores. A hot compress is basically a great way to open your pores and letting them breathe. In this way, all the sebum and grime blocking your pores is removed and allows skin care products to seep into your skin better which results in clear, healthy skin.

Making a Herbal Hot Compress at Home

Things you’ll need:

• A clean washcloth or face towel
• A few drops of essential oil or fresh herbs (optional)
• Hot water

Steps:

1. Add 4 drops of essential oil depending on your skin type in hot water. If your skin is oily you can use thyme, peppermint or lemon essential oil. For sensitive skin, use chamomile or lime. Those with normal skin to dry skin can use rose, rosemary or lavender. If you are using herbs, just drop them into the water.

2. Take the washcloth and soak it in the water until it is completely saturated.

3. Drape the wet cloth over your face till the heat escapes and it cools down to body temperature.

4. Now that your pores are open, clean out the toxins with a deep cleaning face wash.

5. Once your face feels crud-free, follow up your favorite toner and moisturizer.

Since your skin is going to feel a little sensitive at this point, avoid touching it too much or your acne will get aggravated. This herbal hot compress is good for all skin types; it increases circulation and reduces pain in boils.

Credits: Photo by Michelle Buntin