DIY natural facial masks for beautiful skin

The secret to perfectly smooth and beautiful skin is lying right in your pantry. Read on for natural face mask ideas.

Cleansing and nourishing facial masks have long been used to enhance a youthful appearance. The ingredients used thousands of years ago are similar to those we have at our fingertips today — and they're found mainly in the refrigerator, pantry and fruit basket. Masks and exfoliators remove the dead skin cells that build up on the surface of the skin, revealing more lustrous skin beneath.

Sometimes masks feel so good, we rush to use them without remembering to use them properly. Follow these guidelines and your facial mask work its best.

1. Apply a facial mask only to freshly cleaned skin, leaving space around your eyes and mouth.
2. Leave the mask on for 15–30 minutes. During that time, tune out and relax. Try listening to some of your favorite music while you wait.
3. Carefully wash the mask off with warm water before applying a moisturizing cream, gel or skin oil to preserve your renewed skin.

No need to book a spa treatment or even buy a mask at the pharmacy when you can make these at home.

Note: These facial masks are meant to be used on normal skin. If you have another skin type — dry, oily, combination or sensitive — look for masks and recipes for masks that are suitable for your skin type. Here are some varieties to try:

• Tea-based mask: To make a tea-based mask, mix together 15 millilitres (one tablespoon) of plain yogurt, five millilitres (one teaspoon) of black tea and two millilitres (1/2 teaspoon) of lemon juice. Apply the mask, cover with a warm, moist cloth and let it work for 15–30 minutes, depending on skin sensitivity.
• Yogurt and honey mask: Another classic in beauty care combines yogurt and honey. Mix together and apply 15 millilitres (one tablespoon) of plain yogurt, 15 millilitres (one tablespoon) of sunflower oil, five millilitres (one teaspoon) of plain honey and five millilitres (one teaspoon) of lemon juice.
• Fruit-based mask: To take advantage of the cleansing power of fruit in mask form, dissolve 15 millilitres (one tablespoon) gelatin in 125 millilitres (1/2 cup) apple juice in a double boiler. Cool until it reaches the consistency of a gel. Apply mask and let dry, then rinse off with warm water. You can use pear or peach juice instead of apple using the same steps.
• Nourishing mask: To make a nourishing mask, mix an egg yolk with five millilitres (one teaspoon) of honey and a few drops of olive oil and apply to your face. After 15 minutes, rinse with warm water.