How to Make a Pineapple and Papaya Facial Peel Mask

Chemical peels have been all the rage in the skin care industry for many years. However, many people are searching for a comfort friendly alternative to harsh chemical peels that will not irritate their skin while still giving them great results.

One alternative to harsh chemical peels is herbal glycolic face masks. Many such masks are available on the market, however most are very expensive with some ranging upwards of $50.00 for two applications.

Luckily there is a low cost alternative to these expensive blends because many of the ingredients these blends use are readily available in your kitchen. Using these items will save you time and money while limiting your exposure to toxins; I designed the following face mask recipe specifically for skin in need of deep enzymatic cleansing to clear up acne and remove dead skin cells to leave skin looking younger.

You will need the following containers and implements to prepare this recipe: 1 medium size mixing bowl that will hold at least 3 cups of liquid; 1 large fork for mashing papaya; measuring cup; 3 teaspoons; 2 soft cloths and 1 large wooden or plastic spoon for stirring.

You will also need the following ingredients and implements to prepare this recipe: 1 cup mashed Papaya fruit; 1 teaspoon pineapple juice; 1 teaspoon orange juice; 1/2 teaspoon runny honey.

Begin making this recipe by peeling one large, ripe papaya fruit and cutting it into chunks. Depending on your preference you may transfer the fruit to the mixing bowl and thoroughly mash it with the large fork or you can blend the fruit in a blender or mixer on high speed for 1 minute.

After preparing the papaya add both the teaspoon of pineapple juice and the teaspoon of orange juice to the mixture taking care to stir the blend well after each addition..

Once you have mixed the papaya, pineapple juice and orange juice set the blend aside and allow it to set for a few minutes while you warm the honey. Warm the honey while in its original bottle by placing the bottle under hot running water. Once the honey is runny measure out half a teaspoon and add it to the blend while stirring.

The mask is now ready to use.

To use this mask first cleanse your face with your favorite cleanser or with very warm water if you prefer. This mask is an enzyme mask and works best if it can penetrate deep into your skin. Take one of the soft washcloths and soak in hot water. Wring the cloth out and drape it over your face. The warmth and steam emanating from the cloth will open your pores and allow the mask to work more effectively.

After cleansing your face apply a thick layer of the mask to your face. Leave the mask on for about 10 minutes. I do not recommend leaving the mask on longer as extended use can irritate and also lighten your skin.

Rinse the mask off with warm water and a wet washcloth using soft circular motions. After removing the mask liberally splash your face with cold water to close your pores.

The papaya contained in this recipe is a natural source of the enzyme papain which will help your skin slough dead cells; the enzyme will also fight acne and speed healing of damaged skin.

Pineapple and Orange juice are natural sources of glycolic (alpha-hydroxyl acids). This acid will also help fight acne, free radicals and help your skin shed dead skin cells. The honey included in this recipe is naturally anti-bacterial; it is also a humectant which will draw moisture to your skin.

Preparing the recipe with the stated proportions will yield about 1 cup, enough for two masks. You can store the finished face mask in a sealed container in the refrigerator for several days.

Please note that many natural ingredients can cause allergic reactions in people that use them. Avoid any ingredients that you know you are allergic to and discontinue using any formulations that cause skin irritation, hives or other signs of an allergic reaction.