I manage a day spa. And yes, it’s amazing! I get fantastic opportunities to try fun new products and relaxing services (never sad about that). And it is a job. It has it’s hard parts, too. So, relaxing after work is key so I can arrive zen and peaceful for my staff and our clients. Self care for me is getting massage, exercising, doing yoga, meditating, and creating the spa vibe at home. I enjoy creating luxurious at home spa treatments— I love love love skin care. So part of my at home regimen is exfoliating, toning, masking, and moisturizing.

I am also a mama on a budget. I do buy high-quality products, but I also love apple cider vinegar, witch hazel, and everyday items in my kitchen to brighten and nurture my skin. Here are some simple and delicious DIY Face Masks you can make in your own kitchen. Please to take into consideration that you know your skin best, and if you have sensitive skin please use caution and listen to your body.

Apple Cider Vinegar: ACV contains Acetic acid and Malic acid, which have anti-fungal and antimicrobial properties, and can assist with a spectrum of things from fine lines to acne, and act as a mild exfoliant.

ACV Toner

• One part Apple Cider Vinegar

• Two parts purified water.

You can apply with a spritzer bottle, cotton pad, or cotton ball. Best applied after washing your face. If your skin is feeling sensitive to that concentration, just add more purified water to reduce the acidity. As a side note, this toner can also be put in your hair after shampooing and rinsed out as a sort of conditioner. It personally makes my hair feel really soft.

Bananas: Bananas contain vitamins like A, B, and E. Along with their vitamin content, bananas also contain acids that help exfoliate dead skin. Bananas as masks are great! You can add myriad things from your pantry and BOOM! Instant face mask! Once blended together, you can cover and keep in the fridge for a few days, and use again. Some of these masks can be messy and drip, so be mindful of what you’re wearing.

Banana, Honey & Lemon Mask

Peel and mash a banana and get it as smooth as possible. Then using a spoon, place a few table spoons of mashed banana in a small bowl…Then Add…

Add one teaspoon Lemon Juice (contains Vitamin C, acts as a mild astringent and exfoliate) and one teaspoon Honey (Moisturizing and antimicrobial properties). Apply to face with fingers and leave on skin 10-20 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry.

Turmeric Banana & Honey Mask

Peel and mash a banana and get it as smooth as possible like the previous recipe. Then, Add…

Add one teaspoon Honey and 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder. Apply to skin 10-15 minutes. Turmeric can dye your fingers (and for some their face…do a test spot if you’re worried), and other things, so be careful. Rinse with lukewarm water.

Yogurt: Contains Lactic Acid, Vitamin B, probiotics and antimicriobial properties, assisting with hydration, and is said to help with fine lines, and pores, and blemished.

Hydrating Honey & Yogurt Mask

Whisk together two tablespoons plain yogurt, one tablespoon honey, and a few drops of olive or coconut oil.  Apply and let sit for 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water. To switch it up a little, you can make the same as above and add one teaspoon lemon juice to boost with more Vitamin C.

Oatmeal: Helps absorb excess oil on your skin and supports acne prone skin, reduces inflammation and reduces redness in skin. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can help with dry skin, and can remove dead skin cells. Oats also contain compounds that act as a natural cleanser, helping to clear pores and remove dirt. First be sure to use plain oats with no added ingredients. Cook oats per instructions and allow to cool. Do no use hot— Be careful!

Oatmeal & Honey Mask

Scoop a quarter cup cooled cooked oats and two tablespoons honey and mix well. Apply to face for10-15 minutes. Rinse with warm water.

Apple Oats & Honey Mask

Blend two tablespoons cooked cooled oats, two tablespoons Applesauce (good for boosting collagen & elastin, and soothes), and one tablespoon Honey. Apply to face for 10-15 minutes. Rinse with warm water.

I hope you have fun rummaging around in your fridge and cupboards to see what you’ve got and get creative in the kitchen. Maybe gather some loved ones, brew a pot of tea, make some masks, and share a nurturing afternoon.

May you be well,

Lily Lunneman