How You Can Do Your Own Facial at Home

Today is Sunday, and since this has been a rather stressful week, I'd like to try to do something relaxing. What better thing to do than a hot bath and a facial?

A facial done at home costs very little money, and it's great for your skin. It invigorates and helps maintain a healthy youthful look. Here's how to do it:



Cleanse - The first step is to cleanse your face to remove surface dirt and makeup. If you have oily skin, you may use soap. I just use cold cream most of the time.

Exfoliate - You can buy facial scrubs and exfoliaters from a store, but I think this is unnecessary and these products can be too harsh on your skin. A great exfoliating paste or goo can be made by simply mixing plain oatmeal and honey. The oatmeal gently exfoliates while nourishing the skin as well.

Massage - While applying the oatmeal-honey mixture, massage your face lightly with your fingers. This helps to increase circulation and further remove impurities. Massage for at least 5 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

Steam - You may want to do this step in the kitchen. Boil a quart or two of water on the stove. Remove the pot from heat. Cover your head with a towel to create a loose tent as you lean toward the hot water so that the steam can reach your face for about 5 minutes. Not close enough to burn though! This part is my least favorite. The steam makes me feel like I can't breathe. But it's necessary to open the pores and prepare the skin for the next step.

Mask - What kind of mask you use is up to you. There are many different kinds sold in stores depending on your skin type. If you have oily skin, you may want to try a mud or clay mask. Dry skin types can try a gel-like moisturizing mask. My favorite is mint julep mask. It feels cool and refreshing. Just apply and rinse according to the instructions on the label.

Cold Rinse - After removing the mask, you must close the pores by splashing your face with cold water. This helps seal your pores against dirt and oils re-entering the skins and gives your skin a smoother appearance. After the cold rinse, dry your face and apply an astringent or toner. I like to use witch hazel. It's cheap and it works great.

Moisturize - Choose your moisturizer depending on your skin type and age. My grandmother always used Oil of Olay. And don't forget your eye area. You can use a store-bought eye gel or just gently dab around your eyes with some pure almond oil. A little goes a long way.

That's it, you're done!

We all know that a regular facial is beneficial to our skin, but I think the greatest benefit is just taking a few moments to pamper yourself. We spend so much of our time taking care of those we love. It feels so renewing to do something that makes you feel relaxed and pretty.

So what are you waiting for? Schedule a facial "appointment" with yourself :-)

If you want to know more about how to make your own natural beauty products at home, check out my store listing for Bath and Body Recipes Book