Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Blueberry facial mask

I didn't like any of the pictures I took for this; the color was off in *all* of them. I will take more pictures next time I make it and redo this post.

I like using facial masks, but the type I can use are too expensive to buy all the time. I have dry skin that is extremely sensitive, so I can't tolerate fragrances or certain chemicals on my face. A facial is supposed to leave your skin feeling soft and fresh, not cause an itchy painful breakout! Due to these reasons, I decided to make my own facial mask. Here is what I came up with.

I read through many recipes for homemade facial masks and their many benefits. I chose a few ingredients that seemed like they would work for my skin type. Extra Virgin Olive Oil is good for most skin types (but it can irritate oily skin) and is very moisturizing. Oatmeal is moisturizing, soothing, and will exfoliate your skin.. Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and also provide moisture. I only used these 3 ingredients in the face mask. I figured that the fewer ingredients in the facial mask, the better it will be!

Blueberry facial mask

1 T Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/4 C Oatmeal
1/3 C Blueberries


Mix all ingredients together in a mini food processor until well mixed. You may need to stop the processor and scrape the sides a few times. The mixture will be creamy and sort of chunky. Place the mixture in a small, tight sealing storage container. Unused portion of the mixture can be placed in a refrigerator. It should last for about a week or so.

Place a spoonful of the mixture in a small bowl and warm in a microwave for a few seconds. Wash your face with your normal face wash and pat dry with a clean towel. Massage the warmed mixture all over your face in small circular motions for about 30 seconds. Leave the facial mask on for 10 to 20 minutes. I used it for 15 minutes at a time. The mixture will start to dry up and may crumble off. You can wrap a towel around your neck to protect your shirt from any fallout!

Wipe the dried mask off with a warm, wet wash cloth or paper towel. Rinse your face thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel. If needed, apply moisturizer to your face.

This can be used twice a week to keep your face soft and moisturized. It may also keep your skin clear and young looking due to the antioxidants in the blueberries :)

After being in a refrigerator for a while, the facial mixture will gel up. After warming up the mixture in the microwave for a few seconds, you may need to mix in a little bit of water to allow it to spread easier.

I have used this facial mask three times so far. After each application, my face has felt soft and smooth. When I do a lot of baking that involves sugary goodness, the skin on my face usually freaks out and breaks out (sugar + pores = bad!), but since I've been using this facial I've had no such problems!

I am by no means a dermatologist or pretending to be one. If you have skin issues or questions, contact a dermatologist. I can't guarantee this face mask will work for everyone or anyone. Use your own best judgment.

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