Apple mask: Apple was originally developed as a masculine mask, but this combo is equally effective for feminine faces. Grate 1 medium-sized apple. Mix with 5 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon lemon juice and half teaspoon dried sage. After 10 minutes, rinse off with cool water.
Strawberry Mask: Strawberries meticulously clean pores, clear blemishes, tighten skin and postpone wrinkling. Mash 8 or 9 berries (fresh, bruised or over-ripe) into a pulp and mix in 3 tablespoons honey. After 10 minutes, rinse off with cool water. For deep cleansing and softening, mix half cup puree with 2 tablespoons yogurt.
Carrot Mask: Carrots, grated, ground or pureed, firm skin and clear blemishes. Cooking the carrots releases more of their vitamin A for better effect. Mash them to a paste with a little of the unsalted water in which they were cooked and prepare a mask while still warm. Try mixing 2-3 large carrots, with 4 tablespoons honey, 2 teaspoons orange juice, 1 teaspoon yogurt and half teaspoon lemon juice. Rinse off with cool water after 10 minutes.
Tomato Mask: Tomato is a mild astringent that refines pores, exfoliates and removes blackheads. Cut thin slices and apply for 10 minutes; or drain the juice and seeds from slices, mash in a pulp and pat on. To cure blemished skin, mix 1 teaspoon lemon juice plus a little brewer's yeast, oatmeal and yogurt. Cover with a hot, moist towel before rinsing.
Veggie Mask: A veggie mask blots out excess oil. Mash half tomato (skin and seeds removed). Mix with 2 teaspoons yogurt, 1 teaspoon mashed cucumber, 3 teaspoons aloe vera gel, 3-4 teaspoons oatmeal powder and 3 crushed mint leaves. Rinse off with warm water after 10 minutes.
Egg Yolk Clarifying Mask: Beat an egg yolk and smooth it on. Wait 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
Nutmeg Acne Mask: For acne, make a paste of milk and nutmeg. Apply on pimples and let it dry. You could apply overnight and wash off the next morning.
Mint Mask: Fresh mint refines pores. Blend half a cup of leaves with 2 tablespoons of almond and enough water to ground a paste. Massage in and let it dry for 5 minutes. Rinse off; follow with a coating of honey, then let it dry another 5 minutes before rinsing.
Wheat Mask: Wheat masks are great oil busters. Mix 1 tablespoon whole wheat flour with half a teaspoon vinegar plus water to make a paste. Let stand to soften before patting over face.
Oatmeal Mask: Oatmeal is given credit for many flawless complexions. Mix with water or milk and leave on for 10 -15 minutes to smooth, soften and remove dead cells. To multiply the benefits, add 1 egg white, 1 tablespoon instant non-fat dry milk and half teaspoon almond oil.
