This mask will gently cleanse and exfoliate, deeply moisturize and restore skin that’s dry and/or irritated.
We’ll only need 5 simple but mighty ingredients:
Oats (Avena sativa) are high in saponins, which possess a soap-like foaming qualities. Saponins are a natural way to cleanse the skin without compromising the skin barrier. They will help naturally remove the dead skin, capture and remove excess oils, dirt, debris and bacteria from the pores. They also help retain moisture by creating a fine protective layer that penetrates deep into the skin. Oats are emollient, containing substances that soften and soothe the skin. You can use regular finely ground oats or colloidal oatmeal that is derived through the fine milling of whole oat kernels. Unlike regular oats, these tiny particles settle evenly on the skin’s surface to create a protective film. Colloidal oatmeal also adds a noticeable creaminess. No wonder, oats have earned their reputation as a staple ingredient in skincare!
Both Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) and Slippery elm (Ulmus fulva) bark are filled with a gel-like slippery substance called ‘mucilage’ which is extremely effective at skin moisturizing. These plants will leave the driest skin moisturized and velvety soft!
Rose petals (Rosa spp.) have cooling, soothing and moisturizing qualities. They’re an excellent source of vitamins and antioxidants, and are known to tone and tighten the pores. Besides, roses are always a powerful way to cheer the heart!
Honey is a natural humectant, so it will help keep the skin moist. It’s also full of enzymes that work as a gentle exfoliator, sloughing off the dead skin cells and leaving a radiant complexion. Feel free to use a bit of natural yogurt to replace some of the honey for a brightening effect.
To make: add about 1/2 teaspoon of each: colloidal oatmeal (or powdered oats), powdered marshmallow root, powdered slippery elm, powdered rose petals. Add about 1 teaspoon of raw unpasteurized honey, stir and apply to the face. Keep on for about 10 minutes, wipe off with a warm cloth, apply optional toner and follow with a facial oil.