As the weather gets colder, the skin gets dryer. So after this Thanksgiving break, why not pamper yourself with a few DIY, holiday-inspired facial treatments? There’s no better way to put the leftovers to good use than by transforming them into rejuvenating, deep-cleansing masks.
1. Mashed potatoes contains complex carbohydrates that will restore damaged, dry skin. For an extra-luxurious experience, a touch of gravy will leave skin feeling clean and refreshed.
2. The turkey has a moisturizing effect, leaving skin luminous and firm, while the weight of the sweet potato rounds on the eyes relaxes the eyelid muscles and decreases wrinkles.
3. Herb-infused cornbread stuffing has calming aromas that will relax the soul as much as it nourishes the skin. It will leave your face supple and smooth.
4. The sweet filling and crust of peach pie purifies and energize the face, while the fruit’s natural oils are absorbed into the skin to restore balance. For an extra-luxurious effect, add some whipped cream over the eyes.
*The four facials above are comical suggestions, the three mentioned below are worth trying!
Or if you’ve eaten all your leftovers, here are some seasonal facial recipe ideas for what some would call “more traditional” freshly made facials.
1. Cranberry-Apple Mask: In a blender, mix fresh cranberries and pressed apple juice. Blend until smooth and apply generously to face and neck. Relax for 15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water and a washcloth.
2. Cornmeal Scrub: In a bowl, mix cornmeal, fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, tarragon and sage are a good combination), honey or maple syrup and warm water until the combination reaches a grainy, gooey consistency. Apply while bathing or showering, gently massaging into the skin in circular motions for the full exfoliating effect. When finished, rinse with warm water.
3. Pumpkin Spice Mask: Combine one tin of pumpkin puree with one half a teaspoon of each of the following ground spices: cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice and cloves. Apply generously to face and neck. Relax for 15 minutes and then rinse off with warm water and a washcloth.
For all of the masks, cover the eyes with sliced, chilled raw cucumber, potato or apple slices.