One of the easiest and most sustainable ways to calm temperamental skin is with stuff you likely already have in your kitchen…
Whether your skin is playing tricks on you as a result of the makeup you use, unpredictable changes in the weather, or just general autumnal angst, one of the easiest and most sustainable ways to calm it down is with stuff you likely already have in your kitchen. I’m a declared pantry-beauty lover!
That’s right: It’s time to raid your fridge and pantry for DIY mask ingredients. And lucky us, autumn produce happens to be incredibly skin-friendly thanks to the fact that most of what you’ll find at the farmers’ market is packed with the vitamins and minerals your skin craves this time of year.
Let's talk about pumpkin, for example. It’s not just a festive doorstep decoration or the main ingredient in your autumnal desserts—this humble orange gourd is one of the most effective, natural ways to help skin heal. Thanks to its high concentration of antioxidants and vitamins A, C and E, it’s a goldmine of enzymes which help to chemically slough away the dead skin that’s accumulate throughout the summer. (But really, we should all know the importance of regular exfoliation at this point!)
Ready to whip something delectable up for your face? Get cooking this Easter!
Pumpkin+Sweet Potato Mask
We’ve already covered why pumpkin is a must-have for any DIY fall mask, but sweet potato shouldn’t be overlooked either. The tuber is rich in free radical-fighting beta-carotene which also promotes cell turnover (fresh skin cells=brighter, happier skin cells). Add some yoghurt and honey in there and you have got yourself a probiotic bonanza acting as a moisturising antibacterial. If you’re feeling really crazy, throw some turmeric into the mix (just be prepared for slightly stained skin for a couple of hours).
Ingredients:
1 tbsp pumpkin purée (mashed)
1 tbsp sweet potato purée (mashed)
1 tsp honey
1 tbsp Greek yoghurt (full fat)
Pinch of turmeric
Method
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl, then apply to cleansed skin and neck. This one is a little gloppy, so it’s probably easiest to apply with your fingers over the sink or while enjoying a bath. Let it sit on skin for 10–15 minutes (again, might be best to lay down while you wait so it doesn’t fall everywhere), then rinse with warm water. Follow immediately with a facial mist and serum/moisturizer.
Pomegranate+Clay Mask
While pomegranates aren’t specific to autumn, the deep red colour makes them seasonally appropriate and the nutrients from the fruit’s juice is packed with skin-brightening, complexion-clearing antioxidants. Mixed with a little bit of clay, your skin will be very happy post-mask as impurities are drawn out and cleansed. Add a little bit of honey to the mix for an antibacterial boost (and to keep the clay from drying too quickly).
Ingredients:
1 tbsp clay (if you have dry clay powder or clay-based mask, I use Radiance Mask)
1-2 tbsp pomegranate juice preferably freshly squeezed.
1 tsp honey
Method
Mix all the ingredients together with a brush or your fingers (no metal spoons—the metal will mess with the clay) and apply over your cleansed face and neck. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes, or until the clay is dry, then wash off completely with warm water. Follow immediately with a facial mist and serum/moisturizer. If you have sensitive or dry skin, consider swapping the clay for Greek yoghurt.
Cranberry+Sugar Body Scrub
Not a mask, but can be used on your face or body, we can’t forget about the rest of your skin! No longer relegated to a holiday side dish, cranberries are actually acne-fighting heroes thanks to a compound called resveratrol (also include in wine), so this scrub is perfect if you’re dealing with pesky face or body acne.
Ingredients
½ cup whole frozen or fresh cranberries (alternatively you can use juice, without any additive or sugar in it)
1 cup packed brown sugar
¼ cup coconut or jojoba oil
Optional: If you want to add a scent to the scrub, add 5–7 drops of your favourite mellow essential oil, orange suits perfectly well.
Method
In a blender or food processor, purée the cranberries. Transfer to a glass bowl and mix in the sugar and oil until a consistent paste forms. If using, add essential oil and mix. Transfer to a sanitised, airtight container and use on your face & body in the shower.
And enjoy a natural autumnal glow!
Sonia x