 Cheap, Edible At-Home Facials
Who doesn't enjoy a spa facial? But with the ever-tightening economy, paying for a luxurious day at the spa may be out of reach. The good news is that you can make the same masks at home for a fraction of the cost. Shizuka Bernstein, owner of Shizuka New York - home of the bird poo facial, explains how to make lavish facials, like the one seen here on model Tina Moss, for as little as $5.
Here are Shizuka's recipes for luxuriating on a budget!
Pumpkin Enzyme Mask
Natural enzymes in pumpkin help to peel away dead cells, revealing smoother and brighter skin. Pumpkin facial products can cost up to $80, but this quick and easy mask can be created in your own kitchen with leftovers from your holiday celebrations, and for as little as $2. This mask is a great clarifying treatment for those with oily and combination skin types.
1/4c
1 Tsp
1 Tsp
3 Tsp
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Pumpkin Purée
Ground Cinnamon
Grated Fresh Ginger
Honey |
Juice of 1/2 a Lemon
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk together. Lightly massage onto clean, dry skin and let the mask sit for 5 -10 minutes. Rinse the skin well with lukewarm water and pat the skin dry.
Hydrating Oatmeal Body Mask
Oatmeal is the perfect natural remedy for dry and itchy skin. This delightfully delicious mask is one of Shizuka’s favorites in dry climates and during the winter season.
 Ingredients:
1c prepared plain oatmeal (leftover from the breakfast pot is perfect)
1/2c whole milk (please do not substitute skim)
3 tbsp honey
After cleansing your body, restart your shower or bath water on hot and close the bathroom door to collect steam. Combine the oatmeal, whole milk and honey in a food processor and purée until smooth. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and microwave for 30 – 60 seconds, until warm, but not scorching. You may now stir in a few drops of your favorite essential oil for added aromatherapy (optional). Return to your bathroom with the heated mask. Massage the mask into your skin in the steam-filled bathroom and let it sit for up to 10 – 15 minutes. Lower the water temperature to warm, and rinse off. Lightly towel dry and immediately apply your favorite moisturizer.
Matcha Green Tea Facial Mask
Shizuka’s Matcha Green Tea Mask is appropriate for all skin types, but especially effective for those with mature and aging skin. Full of powerful antioxidants, Matcha (green tea) powder is easy to find online, or at your favorite Asian specialty store. As an alternative, cut open a few natural green tea bags (beware of additives). Silken tofu adds a luxurious texture while hydrating and soothing the skin. Honey and lemon exfoliate and brighten the complexion.
 Ingredients:
2 Tbsp Matcha (green tea) Powder
1/3 Cup Soft Silken Tofu
1 Tbsp Honey
Juice of 1/2 a Lemon
Use paper towels or a fine cheesecloth to squeeze excess moisture from the tofu. The resultant texture will resemble a moist feta cheese. Whisk the ingredients together in a non-reactive bowl. Apply to clean, dry skin on the face, neck and décolleté areas. Turn on your favorite relaxation music and leave the mask on for 10 - 15 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water, pat your skin dry, and apply your favorite all-natural moisturizer.
January 13, 2009
Story by Jessica Mulvihill
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