Your blender is a powerhouse when it comes to making quickie breakfasts. And maybe you've even mastered the art of putting it to work for less obvious uses like a no-cook soup or breadcrumbs. But you probably haven't considered using it toward your at-home beauty regimen. Here are suggestions from 3 pros who shared their favorite smoothie recipes for simple, effective face masks you can make in your blender. Read on for their go-to complexion-clearing formulas:
For shiny skin: The antioxidants in strawberries help calm oily skin, while yogurt is a great base for soothing and hydrating. Blend: 1⁄2 cup yogurt + 1⁄2 cup strawberries. Apply: Slather on, let sit for 20 minutes, rinse well.
For dry, sensitive skin: Ground almonds exfoliate, while oats and honey soothe and heal. Lemon juice provides a boost of brightening vitamin C and alpha-hydroxy acids. Blend: 2 tablespoons finely ground almonds + 4 tablespoons oats + 2 tablespoons honey + 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Apply: Gently rub the mixture on clean skin. Leave the mask on for about five minutes, and then rinse with water. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for a few weeks.
For dehydrated skin: This mix is recommended for a thirsty skin. The avocado and honey moisturize, while oats provide a light exfoliant. Blend: 1 very ripe avocado + 1⁄4 cup of oats + 2 tablespoons of honey. Apply: Spread mask onto affected areas for 10-15 minutes; rinse well.
For wrinkle relief: The ingredients in this mask will help improve your skin's texture from the inside out and vice versa. The vitamin C-rich pineapple and strawberries help diminish wrinkles, while the greener-than-green spirulina packs anti-inflammatory properties. Blend: 1 cup Greek yogurt + 1⁄2 cup strawberries + 1⁄2 cup pineapple + 1 tablespoon coconut oil + 1 teaspoon spirulina powder. Apply: First drink about three-quarters of the smoothie for breakfast. Spread the remainder on your face, and let sit for five minutes. For deep relaxation, put one damp green tea bag on each eye. Rinse well.
