Since I get so many compliments on my skin, I’ve decided to share my weekly facial routine. You can use inexpensive products or items from your kitchen. The whole process takes about 1/2 hour. So here are my six steps for your own at-home facial:
Below is a handy text version.
1. Cleanse. Use your favorite cleanser or mild soap. I use Cetaphil, which is inexpensive and available at the drug store. Work the cleanser/soap in for a minute or so, then rinse with a warm, wet washcloth.
2. Scrub. Use a very fine scrub and not one that’s grainy and harsh on the skin. Gently go over your face, avoiding the eye area (that skin is very delicate). Focus more on your oily areas like the nose or T-zone. Household baking soda mixed with water into a paste works well. So does sugar & water but it’s a little harsher. Rinse with a warm, wet washcloth.
3. Steam. If you have one of those at-home steamers, great, but if not, just fill the sink up with very hot water, then put your face over it and cover up with a towel for about five minutes. Try to block any openings so steam won’t escape. You may have to drain and re-fill the sink again for continued steaming. This opens up your pores for the next step.
4. Blackhead Patrol. I can’t do this without a magnifying mirror. Now gently remove any blackheads but don’t just squeeze them! Use either a blackhead extractor or one of those Biore strips that you put on your nose wet, wait 15 minutes, then peel off. Be careful not to traumatize your face. (p.s. you won’t get many blackheads if you keep your skin clean.)
5. Mask. For my combination skin, I prefer a clay mask because it really cleans and makes my skin glow. Apply generously, not too close to the eyes, and relax for 15-20 minutes. Or try a mask of a beaten egg white to clean and tighten the skin.
6. Finishing Up. Remove your mask with a warm, wet washcloth. Then spritz with water or a non-alcoholic toner and moisturize. Do this once a week and your skin will glow!
*Note: Any new scrub or mask, even if it's food, should first be tried out the day before on the inside of your arm in case of an allergic reaction.