#BloggersDoItBetter- 7 D.I.Y One Step Face Masks

Hope everyone had a fabulous Easter, if you're anything like me and over indulged (just a tad) then this post couldn't have come at a better time. Yesterday and today I stepped up the cleansing and got a little busy in the kitchen whipping up some D.I.Y face masks to help clear my skin, and fight the chocolate induced spots I'm currently sporting. Today I thought I'd share my tried and tested face masks, some of these have been favourites of mine for years others are fairly new discoveries, I also thought I'd include a little 'Why does it work' bit as it's all said and done telling someone to rub milk on their face but if your mind's anything like mine you'll most likely want to know the how's and whys! 


1. Plain/Natural/Greek Yogurt 
I've used yogurt as a face mask for years, it works so well on my combination skin, I find that yogurt not only balances any oily patches but also hydrates dry skin. When my eczema flared up this calmed the irritation and cooled the itching. I just love this mask, unlike other masks I'll mention this one is easy creates minimum mess and stays put on your face. 

Why does it work? Well ladies and gents here's the science bit for you, yogurt contains a high level of Zinc, Zinc contains anti-inflammatory properties (hence calming my eczema) that can help reduce red swellings caused by acne or rashes. Zinc also helps regulate oil production in the sebaceous glands. Yogurt also contains lactic acid, this can help smoothen rough skin, exfoliate and even moisturise dry skin types. So go buy some yogurt it's a good un.  


2. Egg Yolk 
Not my favourite D.I.Y mask as I'm just not an egg person, but egg yolks always leave my skin looking smooth, hydrated and clear. Whisk the egg yolk in a bowl, reach for an old flat foundation brush and spread the yolk evenly across the face, leave for a few minutes then wash away. Although as I say I'm not an eggy person (unless it's chocolate) but this mask isn't a pain, minimum mess and the eggs (to me) are pretty much scentless (it doesn't smell like you've rubbed your face in scrambled egg.) 

Why does it work? So it's Zinc again folks, egg yolks contain Zinc (read above.) Other nutrients include vitamin B3 which not only hydrates the skin but also calms any inflammation. Yolks also contain Vitamin A, this can help to heal dry flaky or itchy skin. 


3. Egg Whites
Separate your egg whites, whisk (but not to much folks you might make meringue mmm meringue) apply to a cleansed face, unlike egg yolks the whites should turn stiff on your face meaning things are a little less gloopy. As soon as the egg whites are stiff rinse away to reveal radiant hydrated skin. Fun Fact: Did you know that egg white is actually the healthiest part of an egg?

Why does it work? Well unlike egg yolks the whites actually contain magnesium, magnesium helps to promote radiant skin (by adding lots of hydration.) Whites also contain potassium again another nutrient that does a fantastic job of hydrating/moisturising the skin. This mask really is fantastic for dry dehydrated skin types. 


4. Honey 
Prior to applying honey I use a warm flannel and coat my face, I feel like this allows to honey to soak deeper (some say this opens pores but I'm unsure about all of this pore opening and closing!) Using a flat foundation brush smear the honey across face (try not to lick it all off) leave for 15 minutes and wash away using cold water. 

Why does it work? Well Honey is naturally antibacterial, so it's great for acne treatment and prevention. Honey is also extremely moisturising and soothing, so it helps create 'that' glow. Fun fact: Try honey as a cleanser it's very effective, and less sticky then you think. 


5. Banana 
I hate Banana the smell, the texture (yak) so yes this D.I.Y mask isn't one of my favourites although I do have to admit that glowy radiant skin that follows certainly makes this mask a little addictive. I feel it's only right that this mask comes with a prior warning though, things get messy…real messy. Apply over a large bowl to avoid clogged drains/a bathroom that smells like ripe bananas. 

Why does it work? Banana is a great natural moisturiser for the skin. They contain Vitamin A which helps to restore lost moisture this also helps too repair damaged, dull and dry skin. If you suffer from dry skin, Banana will really help to get some of the moisture back. Even if your skin isn't dry I highly recommend this mask, as it's just leaves the skin looking super radiant and soft. For an added boost  try adding some honey for double benefits. Banana's also contain lots of vitamin C- a dull skin hero.


6. Avocado 
Hair, skin, gut, immune system- avocado is super good for us apparently. It's a shame I detest the stuff, the taste and texture really does not do anything for me (sorry avocado lovers!) 

Why does it work? These little green slimy goodness are filled to the brim with healthy fats. They also contain Omega-9 which helps to reduce skin redness and irritation and is involved in repairing damaged skin cells. Avocado's also contain a high level of vitamin E which helps protect the skin against sun exposure. Oh and yes they also contain a high level of vitamin C! 


7. Milk
Maybe Cleopatra was onto something here folks. As well as making a great face mask, milk also works really well as toner, this post here is really good as it tells you all the different uses for milk. I however have only used this as a mask/toner with a little honey mixed in. My skin always looks a lot brighter/smoother after using milk 
Why does it work? See number one. 


Are you a fan of D.I.Y masks which ones are your favourites?