How to Make a Toning Espresso and Strawberry Face Mask

Making your own health and beauty care products will provide you with many benefits. Making your own beauty products will allow you to omit many of the chemicals found in commercial products. Also these products are rarely inexpensive, so making your own with natural ingredients can also save you money. One health and beauty item that is both easy and inexpensive to make is a face mask. The following face mask recipe was designed for skin in need of intense toning. It is best for skin that could use an anti-aging tightening and lift. The mask is great for combating wrinkles.

You will need the following implements to make and use this recipe: 1 small mixing bowl; 1 large fork; tablespoon for measuring; 1 small plate or dish; 2 soft wash cloths.

You will also need the following ingredients to make and use this recipe: 6 large strawberries; 1 heaping tablespoon of espresso or dark roast coffee; 1 teaspoon honey.

Begin preparing the recipe by washing the 8 large strawberries in cold water, then mash the strawberries with the fork on the small plate or dish. Continue mashing the strawberries until they are smooth; if you wish you may use a mixer or blender for this step.

After you mash the strawberries place them in the mixing bowl and then add the heaping tablespoon of espresso or dark roast coffee. Stir well after adding the coffee, until the mixture is uniform.

Next add the teaspoon of honey and stir the mixture again. Refrigerate the mixture for 10 minutes or so before using it.

Strawberries are a natural source of citric acid; citric acid contains hydroxy acid which is an ingredient found in many expensive wrinkle creams. The espresso or dark roast coffee is high in caffeine which will naturally tighten and tone your skin. The honey is included in this mask because it is antibacterial, naturally fighting acne and it is also a humectant meaning it draws moisture to your skin. This mask is designed for intense toning, if you want only moderate toning try substituting regular coffee for the espresso.

Prepare your skin for the mask by washing it with very warm water to both remove debris and open your pores. Apply a thick layer of the mask to your face taking care to avoid your eye area. Allow the mask to set for 5 to 10 minutes and then use a warm wash cloth to remove the mask using small circular motions.

After removing the mask, rinse your face several times with cool water which will close your pores; then pat your skin dry gently with a soft, dry wash cloth. This recipe yields enough mixture to apply two face masks. You can store the rest in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Please note: citric acid can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight for a day or two after you use it so be sure to wear extra sunscreen and avoid the sun when you can!

Caution: 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.