DIY masks,smoothies,cleansers,moisturizers,tips and tricks for dewy,radiant SKIN

For me the way your skin looks is SUCH an important factor.I LOVEEE beautiful,flawless,fresh,radiant,glowy,model-like skin.Therefore I try out all kind of stuff,but I have a gigantic struggle with my sensitive acne-prone combo skin.I have already posted skincare products and my routine at the moment,and I will keep u updated when it changes.Here are some tips and tricks:

*Makeup is always a good way to get beautiful fresh,radiant,glowy complexion.You can achieve that using a sheer foundation(such as Makeup For Ever Face and Body foundation,Mac Face and Body foundation,or Nars Sheer Glow) that will give u a natural looking dewy,glowy coverage.If u have some problematic areas try to cover them up with a full coverage concealer rather than foundation if you want to look this way,and not cake-y.After that add some highlighter to the top of your cheekbones and/or apply sparingly sparkly lighter pink colored blush also a bit higher.

*There are a lot of skincare products on the market that will help u get this kind of skin.A good cleanser which is gentle enough but cleanses deeply the pores is going to help a lot.

*Vitamin A and niacin(B3) are well-known for their benefits:they clear up the complexion(vitamin A for treating acne).

*Eat healthy-fruit,veggies.. and from time to time treat yourself with something sweet.Avoid dairy products since many people do not tolerate it well(unless you are sure you're not in that category) and it can result in future breakouts.Cut out white bread for fewer spots.Although doctors have said diet has no bearing on acne, a recent Australian study showed that a low GI diet did help decrease spots.Put down the french fries,soda,sweets,alcohol,and fast food in general.Also avoid as much as you can salt,and greasy food.Eat oranges,watermelon,nuts,mushrooms,fish,broccoli...

*Drink plenty of water!!!Crucial for detoxifying.Extremely beneficial for skin.

*Take off your makeup before going to bed!I cannot stress out how important this is.Really-it may sound cheesy but u know it's true.So take it off before u go to sleep!!!!!

*Boost fish intake:Healthy skin is maintained by fat.

In particular, getting more of the essential omega-3 fats found in salmon and other oily fish can help to keep skin supple and ease ­conditions like eczema.

US ­dermatologist Dr Nicholas even credits omega-3s with ­reducing the skin inflammation that is ­responsible for sagging and ­wrinkles.

One to two portions a week will boost your intake.

*Put on sunscreen every time you go out with a SPF 20 at least

*Exfoliate once a week but not more

*Pat dry your skin with a towel,NEVER rub

*Be extra gentle with your under eye area

*Don't assume that a product labeled "natural" or "hypoallergenic" means that it won't cause irritation. You might be surprised at the products that may or may not work with your skin type.Instead test products on a small patch of skin before applying all over your face or body. Apply a small amount of the product on your arm and leave it there for a 24-hour period to determine if it has an adverse effect.

*Stress is not a desirable companion.Breath...Try out yoga or something that relaxes you.

*Be patient with your products.Acne treatments take usually 8-12 weeks to start working but it will pay off in a long run.There isn't a cure that will make your imperfections disappear over the night.Be patient and u will get rid of them once and forever.Do not be put off if your situation starts getting worse before it gets better.No matter how horrible it must look to you,it means that the treatment is working and getting all the nasty things on surface in order to get rid of them.

*Keep your hands off your face!!!

*Clean your makeup brushes and pillowcase!

*Sleep on your back

Oatmeal and onion mask:Oatmeal helps clear clogged pores, while onions are an anti-inflammatory that can help heal acne scars.Mix these two and put on your face for 20 minutes than rinse with water and apply moisturizer.

Coconut oil is amazing multitasking ingredient.It can be used as a face mask,hair mask,body butter...you name  it!Avocado,essential oils,shea butter,lemon,strawberries,honey...many natural ingredients such as fruits and veggies will make a great mask,cleanser,moisturizer...just dig a bit around the net and Youtube and you'll find plenty of useful info,tutorials,recipes for everything and anything

Essential oils are more than just the concentrated fragrant essence of botanicals. Among some of their most noteworthy benefits, the potent aromatic properties in the oils boast healing properties useful in reducing stress, boosting energy, and relieving aches and pains. The plant phytochemicals are also incredibly effective at keeping your skin's healthy glow, too.

GLOWING, SOFTER, SMOOTHER SKIN

You can use cocoa butter straight up or mixed with other ingredients to give yourself glowing soft and smoother skin. While I can’t tell you 100% that you will achieve these results, I would be very surprised if you don’t, especially if you have reasonably healthy skin. Pure cocoa butter is also used for dry skin and can be effective for excema although as always, a test patch is recommended in case you do have sensitivities to it.

I love the glow, the softening and smoothing effect that using pure cocoa butter gives my skin, as well as the powdery feel it seems to have and the slight protective barrier it gives to help lock the moisture and goodness in.

Essential Oils For Dry/Aging Skin

1. Sandalwood
2. Rosewood
3. Frankincense
4. Jasmine
5. Lavender
6. Rose
7. Grapefruit
8. Roman Chamomile

Essential Oils For Oily/Sensitive Skin

1. Bergamot
2. Lavender
3. Tea Tree
4. Myrrh
5. Manuka
6. Geranium
7. Rosemary
8. Helichrysum
9. Blue Tansy

BANANA ALMOND FLAX SMOOTHIE

This smoothie is full of skin-loving plant-based proteins, potassium, calcium, fiber, and omega-3s. The essential fatty acids in the flaxseed oil have anti-inflammatory benefits, which is especially helpful for red, irritated, and puffy skin.
Blend …
1 tbsp flaxseed oil
2 tbsp raw almond butter
1 small banana
1/2 cup organic apple juice
1 cup ice cubes

THE CLEAR SKIN SMOOTHIE

This smoothie,uses a protein powder made from hemp seeds, which is a balanced source of skin-boosting omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. The dandelion greens are great for the liver, helping to detox the body and skin; the avocado and raw cacao powder contain a powerful mix of antioxidants, which help clear the complexion and get skin glowing; and the coconut water is loaded with potassium, which helps skin cells get the water they need to stay (and look) hydrated.

Blend …
1 scoop of hemp protein
1/2 cup organic blueberries
1/2 bunch dandelion greens (no stems)
11 oz coconut water
1/4 avocado
1 tablespoon raw cacao powder


VERY BERRY DETOX SMOOTHIE

The powerful blend of antioxidants in this smoothie  helps cleanse your liver, which processes the toxins that could be contributing to your skin woes. It's a great way to sneak in some bitter-tasting greens, because the berry flavor overpowers the taste of the veggies.

Blend …
1 tbsp fish oil
1⁄4 cup frozen strawberries
1⁄4 cup frozen blueberries
1⁄4 cup frozen raspberries
1⁄4 cup frozen banana
1⁄4 cup chopped kale leaves
1 cup filtered water

COCONUT-PEAR DREAM

Hemp milk is a great alternative to dairy,as dairy products can contribute to skin irritation in some people. This easy, tasty recipe was created by Manitoba Harvest, a hemp foods company.

Blend …
1/2 cup hemp milk
1/2 cup coconut milk or coconut water
1 to 2 tbsp hemp protein powder (preferably Manitoba Harvest Organic Vanilla, for the added flavor)
1 pear, peeled and cored
Handful of spinach or kale
A splash of coconut extract (for more coconut flavor).
1 cup ice

GREEN TEA COOLER

This smoothie combines two powerful skin foods: organic yogurt and green tea. The yogurt is loaded with live active cultures that provide the gut with beneficial bacteria, which helps digestion (the better your digestive tract runs, the better your skin will look); mint and honey also help fend off "bad" bacteria, and the green tea is loaded with anti-aging antioxidants.

Blend …
1 cup Stonyfield organic fat-free key lime yogurt 

1 cup prepared green tea, cooled

1/2 cup loosely packed mint, chopped

Juice and zest of 2 limes 

1 tsp honey

2 cups ice cubes

EGG FACE MASK

Eggs, the symbol of spring and new beginnings, have been used by women for centuries in order to cure dry skin. They are packed with protein and lecithin, which is a natural lubricant for the skin. Adding a bit of sour cream to the mix will help slough off any dead skin cells, too.

Ingredients:
1 raw egg
1 tablespoon of honey
1 tablespoon of sour cream

Directions: Mix together all the ingredients and slather over your face and neck. Let the mask sit for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.

SESAME BODY BUTTER

If you have dry, rough skin from winter's harsh weather and you want to soften it up for arm-bearing tops, an oil-rich moisturizer is the perfect solution.

Ingredients:
1/4 cup of grated cocoa butter
2 tablespoons of sesame oil
1 tablespoon of avocado oil
1 tablespoon of grated beeswax

Directions: Put all ingredients together in a microwave safe glass container and place the container in your microwave. Gently heat the ingredients until the butter and wax are melted. Pour the mixture into a clean jar and allow it to cool overnight. Stir and slather on as needed.

CARROT BUTTERMILK MASK

For oily skin types, spring is when nature brings the rabbits' BFF and your skin's cure -- the vitamin A laden carrot.

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons of fresh carrot juice
2 tablespoons powdered buttermilk

Directions: Mix the juice and buttermilk until you get a smooth paste. Then, spread the mixture over your clean skin and let sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Remove by rinsing with lukewarm water and gently pat your face dry with a fluffy towel.

GARDENER'S HAND CREAM

If you've got a green thumb, you know how tough gardening can be on your hands. A rich cream is just the cure your dry rough palms, fingers and cuticles need.

Ingredients:
3 tablespoons of grated beeswax
1 tablespoon of liquid lanolin
1/2 cup of sesame oil (helps screen UV rays)
2 tablespoons of chamomile tea
1 tablespoon of coconut oil
1 teaspoon of honey
1/8 teaspoon of baking soda

Directions: Combine all ingredients in a microwave safe glass container and heat slowly in the microwave until the wax and oils are melted. Do not let the mixture boil. Stir well and pour the mixture into a clean jar. Let it cool overnight and stir again in the morning. Use as needed.

1. Cucumber-Honey Toner:

Puree 1 cucumber in a blender, drain and collect the juice. Add 2 teaspoons of honey into the juice and mix. Pour the mixture into a bottle. Apply on the face and neck area with a cotton pad in the morning and at night. Air dry it and rinse clean. Store the bottle covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

2. Honey-Apple Toner:

In a blender or food processor, combine 1 peeled, cored apple with a tablespoon of honey and pulse until smooth. Apply mixture to face and allow it to stay for 15 minutes, then rinse.

3. Honey-Oats Face Scrub:

Combine 1 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon finely-ground almonds, 2 tablespoons dry oatmeal, and some lemon juice or yogurt to a luxurious and exfoliating facial scrub. Massage mixture gently onto face, then rinse with warm water. This blend gives a deeply emollient cleansing to the pores of your face. Almonds and oats are superb softening exfoliants.

4. Gentle Honey Cleanser:

Mix 1⁄4 cup honey, 1 tablespoon liquid soap and 1⁄2 cup glycerin (found in drug stores). Apply gently on to face using a face sponge. Rinse with warm water and pat face dry.

5. Hot Honey Bath:

Perhaps the easiest natural skin care recipe using honey -- Add 1/4 cup of honey to your hot bath water for silky and luscious skin. This is especially good for dry skin.

6. Honey Olive Hair Conditioner:

For lustrous, silky, healthy hair and scalp, simply combine 1/2 cup honey and 2 tablespoons to 1/4 cup olive oil. Massage scalp with this conditioner, then put on a shower cap for 30 minutes. Shampoo and rinse as usual. Good for hair revitalising.

Easy Acne Baking Soda Mask
(not baking powder)

2 Tbl. Baking Soda
Spring Water Spring Water Wash face thoroughly with a mid cleanser. Mix baking soda and water together to form a paste. Apply the paste to you face and leave on about 20 minutes. Rinse face and feel the difference. Follow with toner and moisturizer. This acne recipe can be used a couple times a week

Egg White Acne Mask

2 large eggs
2 drops of lemon juice (optional) Separate the egg whites, add the 2 drops of lemon juice.
Whip the egg whites until frothy. After thoroughly cleansing your face, gently apply the whipped egg to face. Leave on until mask dries. Rinse with warm water and moisturize as normal. This treatment will tighten your skin and help clear red spots.
Naturally, if you are allergic to eggs, do not use this recipe

                                                          Chamomile facial toner

If you would like to have a very mild toner, try chamomile herbal tea. Put 1 tea bag into 100ml boiling water, remove the bag after 5 minutes. Apply on the face with a cotton ball. ( Don't rinse.)

Avocado and Olive Oil Facial Mask
good for all skin types

1 half ripe avocado
olive oil (for dry skin)
Scoop out the flesh of the avocado and mash to form a smooth paste. Apply to face and leave on 10 to 15 minutes. Soften with warm water and wipe clean. Pat face dry and follow with your choice of toner and moisturizer.

Facial Mask for Combination (normal) Skin

Peel and puree an average size peach. Add just enough apple cider vinegar to make a consistent paste. Apply on face and leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water.Afterwards apply a mild toner and moisturizer.

Anti-Aging Facial Mask

2 tsp. plain yogurt
1/2 tsp. honey
1/2 tsp. lemon juice
3 capsules vitamin E (equivalent of 300 units)
Combine all ingredients. Open the Vitamin E capsule and fold contents into the mix. Gently apply to face and leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse with warm water and follow with a toner and moisturizer.

Facial Mask for Dry Skin

1 egg
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon olive oil
a bit of vitamin E oil
Mix one egg yolk, one teaspoon honey and a teaspoon olive oil and some vitamin E oil. Spread over your face and neck, leave on for 15 - 30 min then rinse in lukewarm water. Rinse with warm water and follow with a toner and moisturizer.

Avocado Facial Cleanser

Beat the yolk of an egg until it is light and frothy, add a half cup of milk and the mashed half of a ripe peeled avocado. A blender is handy here, but if you don't have one, beat the mixture with a fork until you have a thin cream or lotion-like consistency. Apply on squares of cotton as you would any other cleanser. You may also use this deep cleanser after ordinary soap and water, if your skin is normal. It's quite effective against pollution and grime. Therefore, it's a very pure method of keeping your complexion free of pollutants which can interfere with normal skin function.

Since the formula is perishable, we suggest making it every other day and storing it in the refrigerator between uses.

California Avocado Moisturizer

The inside of the avocado peel is actually valuable. The precious oil hidden away in the peel of the avocado is also a wonderful facial moisturizer. To be technical, the oil contains a humectant, a substance that holds moisture. Using gentle upward strokes, lightly massage your face with the inside of the peel. Let the oil residue remain on your skin for about 15 minutes. At that time you may either leave the oil on your skin and go to sleep or, if you intend to put on make-up, wash your face gently with three or four rinses of tepid water and pat dry. The oil will be invisible but it is there, ready to hold your foundation or powder in place for hours.

Aztec Mystery Eye Treatment

Nobody really knows WHY this is so effective on under-eye puffiness, but it IS. The procedure is very simple: peel an avocado, remove the pit, and slice a half into quarter-inch crescents. Lie down, secure a few slices under each eye, and rest for about 20 minutes. The result is corrective magic!

CREDITS:http://www.benefits-of-honey.com;http://www.totalbeauty.com;http://www.organicauthority.com;http://www.thedailygreen.com;http://www.completeskincaretherapy.com

That would be all for now!Hope you find this helpful,and thank you for the time you've put into reading this!Till the next post

xoxo Maja :D

*Any suggestion/comment is welcome!!!:)