How To Get An Even Skin Tone Naturally

Get Great Skin Tone The Natural Way

We all want an even skin tone, we want perfect glowing skin, a fresh complexion.

Unfortunately, unless you are are a fresh faced "20 something", or blessed, good skin and an even skin tone will take some effort.

With the multitude of scary procedures, and outrageously priced products available, most look for more natural, affordable (and no less effective) ways of getting great looking skin.

Lets take a look at some of the best ways to get an even and glowing complexion.

What Causes Blotchy Skin Tone?

Darker patches of skin are caused by the over production of a chemical known as melanin. This is a process known as hyperpigmentation.

Melanin is responsible for the color or tone of your skin.

There are quite a few reasons for the appearance of blotchy skin, but here are the main causes.

Sun Damage
Over exposure to the sun is probably the biggest cause of uneven skin tone, especially on the face. Ultraviolet rays can do major damage to the first few layers of skin. A good tan can look healthy, but the darkening of the skin is a natural defense, it's your skins way of toughening up against the suns rays. Always use a high strength sunscreen.

Skin Trauma and Acne Scarring
Any kind of skin trauma will cause uneven skin tone. Acne scarring is probably the biggest cause of trauma to the skin. The medical term for acne scarring is post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Dark spots or patches of skin are seen where the skin has healed after an outbreak of acne. More often than not, these scars will gradually fade, but often will take many months, sometimes even years, to disappear altogether.

Hormonal Imbalance
Imbalances in your body chemistry can also cause uneven skin tone. A common cause of this type of hyperpigmentation is Melasma. This effects pregnant women and the result is darker areas of skin on the forehead, cheeks and nose, or all three. It is often known as the "mask of pregnancy". Other imbalances caused by birth control pills and other medications can also upset the body's natural balance, resulting in uneven skin tone.

There are other reasons why you may have an over production of melanin, but the causes listed above count for at least 95% of all cases of blotchy or darker areas of skin.

Natural Remedies - Nature Knows Best

Over the last few years people have been looking more to natural remedies or "home remedies" than ever before. Largely due to the often extortionate price of popular brand name cosmetics, and due to recent scientific findings on the large amount of chemicals used in some of these products.

A chemical known as "hydroquinone", used in a high percentage of brand name creams, is now banned in Europe and many other countries across the globe, over serious health concerns. As a result, the consumer now wants a more natural solution.

Nature has a cure for all our ailments, including great looking skin. Here's how to get a great complexion naturally.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar - natures answer to just about everything! Used for thousands of years in natural medicine, apple cider vinegar has many health benefits.

It contains amino acids, mineral salts and a wide range of vitamins. Research has found that sulfur is also present, which is the reason it is a great skin toner and very effective at fading skin spots, age spots and treating acne.

Soak a cotton ball or pad with a good quality apple cider vinegar, and apply directly to the skin twice daily. The vinegar is quite acidic, so test a small area of skin first. After the vinegar has dried, apply a moisturizer to hydrate the skin.

Licorice extract

Licorice extract, or more specifically, licorice root extract, is excellent for getting an even skin tone. It's quite hard to come by, Chinese herbal stores and good health food stores are your best bet.

A staple of Chinese medicine, licorice extract is known to be a powerful anti-inflammatory, and is also recognized as being excellent for fading skin marks and smoothing the skin.

To apply it to the skin, first mix the extract with distilled water and soak a soft cotton cloth in the mixture, apply to the face for 10 - 15 minutes. Another method is to substitute distilled water for warm green tea, and apply in the same way.

Pomegranate

Pomegranate - more nutrients and minerals can be found in this fruit than any other. The pomegranate symbolizes vitality, health and immortality in many cultures.

The pomegranate is known to prevent oxidation in skin cells, an important factor for maintaining great looking skin.

Apply the juice of the pomegranate to the skin as often as you like. Pomegranate drinking juice is a fantastic antioxidant, make it part of your daily diet for great results.

Lemon

Lemon - Probably the most well known natural skin lightener.

Lemon is commonly used as a bleaching agent for lightening hair color, but its lightening properties are just as effective on the skin.

Apply freshly squeezed lemon juice directly to the skin, after 10 minutes, rinse the skin with warm water. Lemon is very acidic, so test a small area of skin first. If you have sensitive skin, try mixing the lemon with Olive oil or Grapeseed oil before applying to the skin.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is essential for maintaining good skin. It's a powerful antioxidant and excellent for healing wounds and reducing the appearance of scars. Unfortunately the body cannot store Vitamin E for any great length of time, so a regular supply is necessary to reap the benefits.

Apply the neat oil directly to the skin on a regular basis for great results.

There are a wide range of Vitamin E oils available from good health stores, but it's also a good idea to take Vitamin E capsules orally as well. To save buying both the oil and the capsules, you can just split open a Vitamin E capsule when you want to apply it to the skin.

Beneficial Supplements

There are a couple of supplements you can take that will help with evening skin tone.

Vitamin B12 is essential for great looking skin and has numerous other health benefits. It's vital for skin cell regeneration, and can help fight the appearance of wrinkles and dry skin.

You can get Vitamin B12 in capsule form and from foods such as fish, eggs and dairy products.

Turmeric has amazing health benefits and has been used in Indian and Chinese medicine for thousands of years. It is stronger than Vitamin C and roughly 8 times stronger than Vitamin E !

Look for a good quality organic turmeric supplement at your local health food store.

Natural Face Masks For an Even Skin Tone

Face masks are a great way of combining natural remedies, here are some natural face masks that you can try at home.

Olive Oil, Tea Tree and Honey

3 x Tablespoons of Olive Oil
1 x Tablespoon of Honey
1/2 Teaspoon of Tree Tree Oil

Mix the ingredients together and apply to the face. Leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

Oatmeal, Yogurt and Honey

Blend 2 handfuls of cooked oatmeal with a good quality natural yogurt. Mix in 1 tablespoon of organic honey.

Apply to the face for 20 minutes and then rinse with warm water.

Almonds, Yogurt and Lemon Juice

Soak a handful of almonds in water overnight. Mash the almonds to a paste and blend with 2 tablespoons of natural yogurt. Add 1 teaspoon of lemon or lime juice.

Apply to the face for 20 minutes and then rinse with warm water.

Use these natural face masks as a regular part of your beauty routine and you'll definitely see an improvement in any blotchy or uneven skin tone.

One Last Remedy...

"A bit of lusting after someone does wonders for you and is good for your skin."

Liz Hurley

Natural Creams For Uneven Skin Tone

Manufacturers have realized that the consumer is far more aware of what they are putting on their skin, and the emphasis is now on combining powerful natural ingredients to produce highly effective skin toning creams.

There are a number of excellentnatural creams available for treating uneven skin tone.

Uneven Skin Tone Treatment

• Uneven Skin Tone Treatments
  Treatments for uneven skin tone with a natural approach.

6 Unusual Homemade Face Mask Ingredients You Haven't Tried Yet

Masks are an important part of any beauty regime because they are able to reach deep in the pores and clear out impurities that daily cleansing and exfoliants are unable to reach. The right face mask can help clear up serious acne problems, calm irritated skin, moisturize dry skin and combat oily or combination skin.

For most skin types, a face mask once or twice a week is plenty to achieve the soft, smooth and glowing skin we all desire. People who have oily skin may want to consider using a clay face mask more often to keep the oil at bay.

Some beauty experts recommend using an exfoliator just before using a face mask. This is so the face mask can reach deep in the pores more efficiently without having to go through so many layers of dead skin.

While there are many effective face masks in the market today, it is not necessary to spend the extra money. Many commercial face masks contain ingredients already found in your kitchen. If you make your own homemade face mask, you can be sure that you are putting only the good stuff on your face without the added chemicals. The money you'll be saving is just icing on the cake.

This list contains some of the most popular face mask ingredients found in commercial face masks that you may already have. Many of them you may already know, but there may also be a few surprising ingredients you did not know about before.

Olive Oil

Years before olive oil was ever used in cooking, it was popularly used on the hair and skin to help moisturize and rejuvenate the cells. Antioxidants contained in olive oil (vitamin A and vitamin E) help repair the damage to your skin as a result of prolonged exposure to the sun, cigarettes and other environmental irritants. Olive oil face masks may also help improve skin elasticity.

Refreshing Olive Oil Face Mask with Lemon

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
• dash lemon zest
• 1/2 cup cooked and cooled old fashioned oats (not instant and cooked in water)
• 1 egg

Mix together and apply on your face and neck, be sure to avoid the eyes. You may leave this mask on for about 20 minutes and rinse.

Ultra Hydrating Olive Oil and Avocado Face Mask

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 mashed avocado

Mix the ingredients well and apply to the face and neck for about 10 minutes (or when the avocado starts to turn brown!) Gently remove the avocado and olive oil face mask then rinse off with warm water.

Super Exfoliating Olive Oil and Sea Salt Face Mask

• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoons coarse sea salt

Mix well and leave on your face and neck for five minutes. Exfoliate and rinse well.

Always remember to pat your face dry and finish off with your favorite moisturizers!

Honey

Honey face masks are beneficial to all skin types because it helps the skin add and retain elasticity and moisture without drying out the skin. Due to the antioxidant properties in honey, it may also protect the skin from free radicals and even act as a mild sunscreen against the sun's harmful rays. Honey may also speed the healing process on wounds with its antimicrobial properties. As such, some research suggests that people may also successfully use a honey face mask for acne. Manuka honey, in particular is believed to be especially effective for topical use.

Summer Sweet Orange and Honey Face Mask

• 1 1/2 tablespoons orange
• 1/4 cup honey
• orange zest

Mix all the ingredients together. You should only need a sprinkling of orange zest. Apply to the face and neck and rinse off with warm water after 20 to 30 minutes.

Greecian Honey Face Mask

• 2 teaspoons plain Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon olive oil

Mix the ingredients together and apply a thin layer over your entire face and neck. Leave on for about 15 minutes and rinse well.

Morning Dew Honey and Turmeric Face Mask

• 1 teaspoon hone
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 2 teaspoons oat flour (you may just grind up old fashioned oats in your blender)

Mix well until a paste forms. Apply to the face and rinse off after 10 to 15 minutes.

Yogurt

While you might rather be putting your yogurt in your tummy than your face, there are actually a few good reasons you might want to save at least one container of yogurt for your beauty regime. Yogurt is full of lactic acid. When applied to the skin, this acid gently exfoliates the skin and makes it feel smoother. While it loosens the dead skin cells, it also helps dissolve anything left in your pores. The antibacterial antifungal properties of yogurt also make it great for fighting blemishes. Yogurt may also soothe skin when burned and tighten pores. Although any plain yogurt may work, Greek yogurt provides the best consistency for a nice mask that will not run.

Indian Yogurt and Honey Mask

• 3 tablespoons oatmeal flour
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 teaspoons rosewater
• 1/4 turmeric powder

Mix ingredients well. Apply a thick layer on the face and neck and leave for about 25 minutes. Rinse well with warm water. You should have enough for a another application. Save in the refrigerator up to a week to maintain freshness or share with a friend.

Irresistible Chocolate Yogurt Face Mask

• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 2/3 cup cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Lemon zest

Mix well and apply liberally. Resist eating for 10 minutes and wash off with warm water. You may save the rest in the refrigerator up to a week or share with a friend.

Strawberry Yogurt Mask

• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 4 mashed strawberries

Combine ingredients and apply to the face and neck for five minutes. Exfoliate and wash off with warm water.

Coffee

You may have noticed that many beauty products now have caffeine in them, particularly those that are aimed to fight dark, puffy eyes. This is because caffeine helps to remove excess blood under the eyes and acts as an anti-inflammatory agent. Using a coffee face mask or scrub may also help improve elasticity and brighten your skin for a healthy glow. The antioxidants in coffee may also help reverse some of the effects of sun damage. More importantly for some, it may also help reduce the appearance of cellulite. So, the next time you prepare a nice homemade brew, save a few of your coffee grinds and make yourself a nice rejuvenating face mask.

Morning Glow Coffee Face Mask

• 1/2 cup freshly used coffee grinds
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Mix ingredients in a paste and apply it to your face and throat. Leave the mask on for 15 minutes and scrub off with warm water.

Cafe Mocha Mask

• 1/4 cup freshly used coffee grinds
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 3 tablespoons raw sugar (optional)

Mix ingredients to form a thick paste. Add the yogurt last to achieve the desired consistency. Apply to your face and neck. Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes and wash off with warm water

*Please remember to use the coffee grinds no longer than 20 minutes after making your coffee. Only caffeinated coffee works, so if you are a decaf person, you might want to make buy a small bag of coffee and make just enough coffee to make your mask.

Bentonite Clay/Kitty Litter

Kitty litter, yes, you hear me right, kitty litter, has a ton of benefits for your skin. Don't worry, you don't have to stick you head in your cat's litter box. Unscented, natural clay kitty litter is made with Bentonite Clay. This clay is believed to be especially good for blemishes on the face and removing built up residue and grim from your pores. This is because the clay does two things: first it constrains the pores, squeezing out any buildup; second, it expands and soaks up everything that leaves the pores. It may also increase blood circulation and help treat conditions such as rashes or eczema. If you do not feel comfortable buying and using kitty litter on your face, you can buy Bentonite Clay in some stores or online.If you do decide to use the kitty litter route, the best thing to do is grind up the clay before using so it can form a nice paste.

Spa Essential Bentonite Clay Face Mask

• 1 tablespoon ground kitty litter
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon old fashioned oatmeal cooked and cooled
• 1 or 2 drops calendula or tea tree oil

Mix ingredients together to make a paste. Apply to your face and leave on for 15 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.

Super Soothing Kitty Liter Mask

• 4 tablespoons kitty litter
• 1 tablespoon aloe vera
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary or
• 1/2 teaspoon dried crushed rosemary
• 1 to 2 tablespoons water

Form a thick paste with ingredients and apply it to the face for 15 to 20 minutes and wash off with warm water.

*If you are using Bentonite Clay or kitty litter to help with acne, it is recommended by most people to use the mask daily for at least two weeks. At this point, one mask twice a week should be enough to keep acne at bay.

Green Tea

You may already know about the health benefits of drinking green teaincluding the high level of antioxidants and soothing effects. What you may not know is that these benefits also apply when green tea is used on your skin. Many beauty products that help fight signs of aging and prevent acne are now using green tea. You can use any natural green tea you like in its natural form, or you can crush the tea leaves into a fine powder.

Classic Green Tea Face Mask Exfolliator

• 1/4 cup extra strong green tea
• 1/2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons raw sugar

Mix ingredients together when tea is cooled to room temperature. Gently apply the mixture on your face and neck and leave for 10 minutes. Gently scrub and rinse off with warm water.

Oatmeal Green Tea Mask

• 1/2 cup very warm green tea
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 4 tablespoons old fashioned oats

Mix ingredients together to form a paste. The tea should still be warm to the touch, but not too warm for your skin to handle. Test the warmth on your wrist first. Apply the mask to your face and neck and leave it on for 20 minutes and rinse off with warm water.

Chocolate Green Tea Face Mask

• 1 tablespoon powdered green tea
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons honey

Mix ingredients together to make a thick paste. Apply liberally over your face and neck and rest for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse off.

How to Make a Skin Clearing Face Mask

The great thing about making your own skin clearing face mask is that you have so many options. There are a variety of natural, inexpensive products you can purchase from the grocery store that work wonders for you skin. I enjoy mixing and matching ingredients to what works personally for me. I also like to know why I'm using a certain ingredient and how it's helping my skin. For this reason, I'm going to start out by listing ingredients for your face mask and why they are good for your skin. Then, I will provide a few skin clearing face mask recipes that I personally like. Feel free to add ingredients to meet your needs, or come up with your own face mask.

Tips to Help You Get Started with Your Home Remedies

• Start by using warm water to open your pores and finish with cool water to close them.
• You usually want to give yourself at least 30 minutes to make the mask and allow it time to work on your skin.
• Some of these masks can get messy, so be prepared with towels and washcloths.
• Relax with cucumber slices on your eyes while using your mask. Cucumber is soothing and has anti-inflammatory properties, so it helps to reduce puffy eyes.
• Always consider including a moisturizing ingredient in your masks. Of course, this might depend on your specific needs. However, hydrated skin is a big key to having beautiful, clear skin. Many anti-acne products dry out your skin. Skin that is too dry can actually cause acne because your skin produces excess sebum when your skin is too dry.

Now let's get started.

Honey is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and loaded with nutrients that will help to clear your skin.

Source: hotblack, CC BY, via morguefile

Natural Skin Clearing Ingredients

Honey: Honey is naturally antimicrobial, antibacterial and filled with antioxidants. Honey also helps to absorb and retain moisture. It is excellent to help prevent drying. It is also a great cleansing agent because it absorbs impurities from the skin. Because of it's antibacterial properties, it may help keep your skin clear by inhibiting excess bacteria growth. Another awesome property of honey is that it doesn't have any chemicals or preservatives but it still has a shelf life of a year or more! Honey contains a high content of nutrients that your skin will eat up.

Avocado: Avocado is high in vitamins and antioxidants. It's high natural fat content is very hydrating for you skin. It's high vitamin E content boots collagen and promotes new skin growth. Avocado is an excellent ingredient for moisturizing, softening and strengthening your skin.

A Note for Those with Sensitive Skin

If you have sensitive skin, you should be aware that acidic fruits, cinnamon and baking soda may be irritating to the skin if used in excess. I would recommend using these ingredients no more than once a week. You may want to test a small area of skin before you spread the mask over your entire face. I have sensitive skin and haven't had a problem, but everyone is different and your skin may react differently.

Cinnamon: Cinnamon helps to dry acne. It also brings blood and oxygen to the surface of the skin, increasing circulation and promoting the absorption of nutrients. Cinnamon is a natural antiseptic. Don't use too much cinnamon, as it can be irritating to the skin. It is recommended to not use cinnamon masks more than once a week. If your skin does get irritated after a cinnamon mask, sooth it with a cucumber and honey toner.

Baking Soda: Ask any skin care expert and they will tell you that exfoliation is a very important piece to maintaining healthy, beautiful and clear skin. You can use baking soda mixed with a little water to make a natural scrub to slough off dead skin cells and to promote the growth of new ones. In addition, baking soda has alkalizing properties that can help improve the PH balance of your skin. It also helps to soothe irritated skin.

Olive Oil: Olive oil is rich in vitamins and nutrients. It helps to moisturize your skin without clogging pores. Olive oil functions as an antioxidant as well as an anti-inflammatory. It helps to improve your skin's moisture retention, leaving your skin feel soft, smooth and supple.

The acids in lemon and other citrus fruit help exfoliate and clear the skin.

Source: mconnors, CC BY, via morguefile

Lemon: Citrus fruits have natural exfoliation benefits. The acids in citrus juices help to dissolve dead skin cells. Alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) helps to reduce wrinkles and sun damage and can be found in lemons as well as oranges, strawberries and grapes. Lemon juice is also a natural antiseptic, which will help clear dirt and bacteria from your skin. This is one of the ingredients that you want to make sure you mix with hydrating and moisturizing ingredients because alone, lemon juice can dry out your skin. You can always reduce the amount of lemon in your masks if you find your skin is too sensitive for it.

Oatmeal: Oatmeal is anti-inflammatory and is great for all skin types. It contains cleansing agents and helps to remove dead skin cells. Oatmeal has been clinically shown to heal dry, itchy skin. You'll want to grind it into a powder to use in your recipes using a blender or food processor. You can also by oat flour from your local health food store.

Eggs: As a mask, egg whites may help tighten and tone your skin. Egg whites are high in protein, vitamins and minerals, especially the vitamin B complexes. Eggs whites will give your skin a healthy glow. They will also tighten your pores and help to remove dead skin cells. The protein in the egg whites will help to soften, nourish and heal your skin.

Yogurt: Yogurt contains natural anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. The lactic acid in yogurt dissolves dead skin and tighten pores. If you use a yogurt with a high fat content, you will have the extra benefit of moisturizing your skin.

Now we're ready to make some skin clearing masks that will leave you skin soft, smooth, clean and glowing.

5 Skin Clearing Face Masks

Grab your cucumbers and get ready to make some skin clearing face masks.

Source: Rafael Ben-Ari via fotolia

Egg whites are a great option to help clear skin.

Source: Public Domain via Pixabay

1. Oatmeal, Honey and Egg White Face Mask

Make an oatmeal, honey and egg white face mask to cleanse, exfoliate and firm your skin.

• Crack an egg and separate the white from the yolk, putting the white in a bowl and discarding the yolk. Lightly beat the egg white until frothy.
• Grind the oatmeal in a blender or food processor until it's a powder. Add about 2 TBSP to your egg whites.
• Add 1 TBSP honey to your mixture and stir until combined.
• Gently massage all over your face and neck.
• Allow to set on your skin for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water.
• Finish by gently patting your face with a cool, damp wash cloth to close your pores.
• Look in the mirror and admire your glowing complexion.

2. Honey, Olive Oil, Lemon Juice Face Mask

This mask will exfoliate and hydrate your skin. This is a wonderful mask to get the benefits on the lemon juice without drying out your skin.

• Combine 1 TBSP honey, 1 TBSP olive oil and 2 tsp lemon juice in a small bowl.
• Gently massage onto the skin on your face and neck.
• Allow to the mixture to rest on your skin for 15 minutes.
• Wash with warm water and finish by dabbing your face with a cool washcloth.
• Feel the difference in your skin.

3. Baking Soda and Witch Hazel

Making a baking soda scrub to exfoliate and increase circulation to your skin. Witch hazel is inexpensive and can be used a toner to dissolve excess oil and tighten skin without drying it out. In this recipe, we combine baking soda and witch hazel to create a skin clearing scrub.

• Put a few tablespoons of baking soda in a small bowl.
• Slowly stir in the witch hazel until it's the consistency of a loose paste.
• Gently apply the scrub all over your face by massaging the scrub in small circles.
• Rinse thoroughly. Excess baking soda left on the skin might irritate it.
• Use a natural moisturizer such as Aloe Vera to finish and feel how soft your skin is!

4. Citrus and Yogurt Face Mask

The combination of citrus juice and yogurt may help even skin tone, cleanse, disinfect and soften skin. Choose a plain yogurt with a high fat content for extra moisture. I like to do a baking soda scrub after my citrus face mask for extra smooth skin.

• Combine 1/4 cup yogurt, 1 TBSP lemon juice and 1 TBSP orange juice.
• Apply to face and relax for 20 minutes.
• Rinse with warm water. Follow with a baking soda scrub if desired.
• Finish with a cool wash cloth to close pores.
• Look at your beautiful radiant skin. Don't forget to smile!

Aspirin might be a surprising ingredient in a homemade skin clearing face mask.

Source: xandert, CC BY, via morguefile

5. Aspirin and Lemon Juice Face Mask

Aspirin? That's weird, right? It actually makes sense. If we call aspirin by it's scientific name, acetylsalicylic acid, then it might sound familiar. Aspirin contains salicylic acid which is a common ingredient in many anti-acne products. Note: if you have sensitive skin this mask may be drying if used too frequently. If you find this mask dries out your skin, try adding some honey into the mix or do this mask every couple of weeks as opposed to weekly.

• Crush about 12 non-coated aspirin pills into a powder.
• Slowly stir in the lemon juice.Continue to stir until the you get a pasty consistent.
• Apply to your skin and let it sit for 10 minutes.
• Dissolve some baking soda in warm water. Rinse by dipping a cotton ball in your baking soda water and then use the cotton ball to remove the mask. The baking soda will neutralize the acid from the lemon.
• Watch you skin get clearer and clearer after each use.

Ingredients to Lighten Scarring

You may wish to reduce acne scarring and sun damage. Some natural products that may help even your skin tone are:

• Aloe Vera
• Lemon
• Cocoa Butter
• Witch Hazel
• Tee Tree oil

As mentioned earlier, lemon may be drying to the skin, so I wouldn't recommend using it all over your face without combining it with another moisturizing ingredient. I like to use Aloe Vera as my evening moisturizer. My skin always feels soft, nourished and non-greasy.

Now you have an excellent foundation for creating your own skin clearing face mask.You'll notice that I described a few other ingredients that weren't included in the recipes. There are hundreds of homemade face masks I could have written about, but I wanted to give some examples of popular ones or some that I personally use and like. Feel free to mix, match and create your own combinations that work for your skin. For instance, add cinnamon to any mask to add some extra kick. If you need a purely moisturizing and soothing mask, try avocado and honey. The options are endless, it simply depends on what works for your skin. Now go relax and enjoy your face mask!

Beauty Update: An Easy, 3-Step Natural Skin Clearing Treatment

After writing this article, I was inspired and tried out a new skin clearing technique. I was very happy with the results so I thought I would share here.

This skin care treatment has three steps. Step one is an acid peel to help dissolve dead skin cells. The second step is to exfoliate and remove impurities from the skin that were drawn out during the acid peel. And the final step is to moisturize and replenish nourishment to the skin.

1. Acid Peel: Quarter a lemon or lime. Rub directly onto skin and let sit for 5-10 minutes. You'll likely feel some tingling and possible some slight stinging. If it gets to become too uncomfortable, rinse immediately and continue with steps 2 and 3, which will help sooth your skin.
2. Baking Soda Exfoliation: Moisten your fingers and dab in some baking soda. Gently massage your face with the baking soda to gently exfoliate the skin. In addition to removing dead skin cells, the baking soda will neutralize the acid from the citrus.
3. Honey Moisturizer: Raw honey works best. You'll probably use about 1 TBSP honey. Rub directly onto skin and allow to sit for at least 10 minutes. The honey will help prevent bacteria growth, hydrate and replenish your skin. The best time to moisturize is after you have exfoliated, so your skin will love this simple honey treatment.

Relax in a honey, Epsom salt and baking soda bath while allowing the honey to work on your skin. You will notice an immediate difference in your skin after this simple 3-Step treatment. Enjoy
!

10 Homemade Treatments for Radiant Skin

Get Gorgeous Skin with Ingredients from Your Own Kitchen

Did you know that many of the same ingredients found in expensive, high quality skin care products can be found in the natural products that you likely already have in your kitchen? In this article, I will provide you with 10 easy, natural, inexpensive, at-home skin treatments that I love.

There are number of reasons why you can benefit from homemade skin treatments. First of all, they are relatively inexpensive. They are all natural and since you're the one making them, you know exactly what is in them and from where those ingredients came. Many of the ingredients have a wide variety of uses, and, most importantly, they work!

After you read through some of my suggestions, feel free in invent your own natural skin care treatments. I will explain why the ingredients I use are beneficial, and then you can mix and match to create a perfect, customized skin care routine that's best for you and your skin.

1.Grape Anti-Wrinkle Cleanser

Grapes, like other citrus fruits, have natural exfoliation benefits. Grape seed oil can be found in many anti-aging skin care products. The grape is also high in antioxidants and vitamins.The alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) found in grapes and other acid fruits such as oranges, lemons, and strawberries, help to reduce wrinkles and sun damage. Though the levels of AHA in natural fruits aren't as high as in cosmetic products, if used regularly you should notice improvements in your skin.

The yogurt in the this recipe is a good source of vitamin A retinol and vitamin b5. The olive oil is high in vitamin E and is great for moisturizing that results in soft and supple skin. The baking soda adds a little extra exfoliation.

Grape Anti-Wrinkle Cleanser

Blend 1/2 cup grapes, 1 tsp olive oil, 1/4 cup yogurt and 1 TBSP baking soda in a blender until smooth. Gently massage onto face and rinse with warm water.

Simple Grape Anti-Wrinkle Mask

You can also receive the anti-wrinkle benefits from grapes by slicing a few in half and then crushing them gently on your face. Leave on for about 20 minutes.

Beauty Extra: Frozen Grape Snack

Not only are grapes good for your outside, they're good for your inside! Fill a zip lock container with your favorite grapes and pop in the freezer. In a few hours you'll have a yummy, easy and healthy snack. Enjoy when you're craving a sweet snack.

2. Avocado and Honey Face Mask

Use this mask if you want soft, supple, moisturized, and glowing skin.

Avocado is truly a super-fruit. When you're not wearing it, I highly recommend eating it. It is high in healthy fats, fiber, vitamins and antioxidants. There have been studies showing that people who eat avocado have lower cholesterol[1]. But, more specifically, how does it benefit your skin? Well, it's high in vitamin E, which is great for softening the skin, reducing wrinkles and stretch marks. It also has antioxidant properties. It boosts collagen (which keeps skin elastic) and new skin growth. Along with vitamin E, avocado is also high in vitamin A and C.

Avocado is also extremely high in omega fats, which improve dry skin and skin firmness. All the oils and fat in avocados will provide your skin with natural moisture and elasticity.

Honey helps to absorb and retain moisture. Honey is naturally anti-microbial and also an antioxidant. It will help to absorb impurities from the skin.

Avocado and Honey Face Mask

Mash 1 ripe avocado with 2 TBSP honey. Apply liberally to skin and allow to sit for 20-30 minutes. Apply two cool cucumber slices to eyes, which help reduce redness and puffiness, if desired.

Use whenever you feel your skin is in need of replenishment and moisturization.

3. Citrus Acid Peel followed by Baking Soda Scrub

One of my favorite facial scrubs used to be Philosophy Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash. That was until I discovered baking soda. I really liked Philosophy's exfoliating wash because the microbeads were very fine and my skin felt super soft afterwards. Well, plain old baking soda comes pretty close to the same experience! Follow your acid peel with a baking soda scrub for maximum exfoliating and resurfacing benefits. This also works great to soften and reduce blackheads. The acidity in the lemon and orange juice will dissolve dead skin cells and the baking soda will wipe away anything left over.

Citrus Acid Peel

Mix 1/2 cup plain yogurt with 1 TBSP orange juice and 1 TBSP lemon juice. Apply a generous amount all over face and neck. Let work for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water.

Baking Soda Scrub

Now that the acid peel has had time to work, it's time to slough off those extra skin cells. Wet face and neck. Dip your fingertips in a small amount of baking soda and gently massage in small circles all over face, picking up more baking soda as needed. After you've thoroughly scrubbed your entire face for a few minutes, rinse with warm water.

Repeat every 1-2 weeks. It's important to give your skin time to replenish itself.

Some people prefer to mix the baking soda with a mild skin cleanser such as Cetaphil's skin cleanser. I've found that using plain baking soda works fine for me, but do whichever you prefer.

Please note: this treatment may cause the skin to turn pink for a little while afterwards. Please make sure you have time to allow your skin to recover before going out (it may take an hour or two) unless you don't mind leaving the house looking a little rosy.

4. Honey Cucumber Toner

Cucumber helps to soothe and soften your skin. It is anti-inflammatory and naturally refreshing. It will reduce redness, puffiness, and help even your skin tone.

Honey, again, is great for absorbing impurities from the pores. It also helps treat minor irritations and sun burns.

Use this toner twice daily to help clean and moisturize your skin.

Honey Cucumber Toner

Peel 2 cucumbers. Blend. Strain and collect the cucumber juice. Mix 1 TBSP honey into the cucumber juice. Apply small amount with fingers or dab with a cotton ball. Store up to a week in the refrigerator.

Beauty Extra: Cucumber Lemon Water

All of the natural ingredients in this article are just as good for you when ingested as when applied topically. Here is a simple and refreshing drink you can sip while enjoying your homemade spa treatments.

Put about 3 slices of cucumber and 3 slices of lemon in a pitcher of water. Allow to sit in the refrigerator for an hour to allow flavors to come through. Enjoy!

5. Honey and Sugar Body Scrub

Exfoliating will keep your skin refreshed and renewed. Ask any esthetician what are the most important things you can do for your skin and their answer will be: moisturize and exfoliate. I do this scrub about once a week. Use it all over your body, especially those trouble areas (for me, I use it to keep those little bumps on the back of my arms, legs and butt at bay). It is also great in helping to prevent stretch marks, and even to reduce the appearance of stretch marks, as it helps strengthen skin elasticity.

Honey and Sugar Body Srub

Mix 2 parts honey to 1 part sugar, adding honey as necessary to reach desired consistency. You'll probably use about 1/4 cup sugar if you want to scrub your entire body. Apply the scrub in the bath or shower as sugar crystals tend to fall and make a mess. Gently apply the sugar scrub and rub for about 15 minutes. Again, both honey and exfoliation are great for your skin so you really want to give them the opportunity to work.

Rinse with warm water. You'll be amazed at how soft your skin feels afterwards. Moisturize after your shower for maximum benefits.

6. Coffee Ground Scrub

Don't throw away those used coffee grounds just yet! This one can get a little messy, so be sure to do it in the shower or bath. The caffeine in the coffee grounds help to draw out moisture. What?!? I thought the goal was to retain the moisture in our skin! Keeping your skin moisturized in very important, but in this case, by drawing out water, the caffeine may help to reduce the appearance of cellulite. I like to mix the coffee grounds with a little bit of honey. You'll receive all the revitalizing qualities of honey, as well as a gently exfoliating from the coffee grounds.

Coffee Ground Scrub

Use however much of the coffee grounds you have/want. You'll probably need about 1/2 cup if you want to do your entire body. Mix in honey until you've reached your desired consistency. Rub and massage skin for about 15 minutes to get the benefits of the exfoliation and the honey. Rinse with soap and warm water. You'll need to use a soap, as the coffee grounds will leave a residue on your skin.

7. Milk and Honey Bath

As legend goes, Cleopatra frequently indulged in baths of milk and honey. And for good reason; these things are amazing! Simple, yet effective. Doesn't the name simply sound luxurious? Anytime you feel like relaxing into a warm bath, why not consider throwing in some extra ingredients from which your skin will reap extra benefits.

I've added epsom salt to this bath for the added benefits of detoxification, exfoliation and healing.

Milk and Honey Bath

Fill bath tub with water to desired temperature. Mix into the tub 2 cups whole milk, 1/2 cup honey and 1 cup epsom salt. Gently stir to allow honey and salt to dissolve. If you would like, light candles and dim the lights and use this time to relax deeply. I recommend bathing for 30 minutes to reap the benefits of this simple bath.

8. Almond Oil Moisturizer

Simple, yet effective. No joke, I used this twice daily while I was pregnant and I did not get ONE stretch mark on my stomach! And I don't believe I have naturally resilient skin because I did get stretch marks on my sides and my breasts, where I was not as consistent about applying the oil. Almond oil is gentle on all skin types and it is rich in vitamin E. It helps to improve skin elasticity and prevent stretch marks. Use twice daily, consistently, if you want to see serious improvements in your skin. Also, be sure you are exfoliating for healthy, radiant skin.

Almond Oil Moisturizer

Use pure and natural almond oil. Apply a small amount (a little goes a long way) to skin and massage in until absorbed, usually a few minutes. Repeat two to three times daily to prevent stretch marks.

Massaging the skin is also beneficial in that it increases blood flow and circulation to the skin.

Aura Cacia Natural Skin Care Oil Sweet Almond 4 oz

Amazon Price: $3.50
List Price: $5.93

9. Oatmeal and Honey Face Mask

This recipe is simple yet effective. As explained above, honey has many benefits when applied topically to the skin. The honey will help keep your skin soft, smooth and radiant. The minerals in oatmeal act as an anti-inflammatory and help reduce irritation. This mask is great after extended exposure in the sun.

Oatmeal and Honey Face Mask

Process a small amount of oatmeal in a food processor or blender. Mix with a little bit of honey, adding more as needed to reach desired consistency. Apply liberally to face and let work for about 10 minutes. Rinse with warm water. If you would like, after you've rinsed off the mask, you can dab your face with cold water to close your pores.

Beauty Extra: Teabags to Reduce Inflammation

While you're enjoying your homemade treatment, try using tea bags on the eyes to reduce inflammations and improve dark circles. After making your tea, save the tea bags in the refrigerator. Then they're ready for your use whenever you're treating yourself. I like to use them while soaking in a honey and milk bath.

10. Oatmeal, Sea Salt and Baking Soda Hand and Foot Scrub

Let's not forget about our hands and feet. They need exfoliation and moisture just as much as the rest of our skin. Actually, our hands are big indicators of age, so be sure to take care of them as much as you care for the rest of your skin. This scrub will exfoliate your skin, leaving it fresh and radiant. Don't forget to moisturize afterwards!

Oatmeal, Sea Salt and Baking Soda Scrub

Mix together 1 TBSP oatmeal with 2 tsp baking soda, 2 TBSP sea salt and slowly add water until you get a pasty consistency. Apply to hands and feet and massage for 5-10 minutes. Remember, the massage with get your blood and circulation moving to your skin and you need to massage for a few minutes to really get your skin nice and exfoliated.

And there you have it! Ten awesome recipes for radiant skin. You will love seeing and feeling your soft, glowing and healthy skin. I hope you enjoy these natural, homemade skin treatments. Don't forget that you are beautiful. If you have tried any of these recipes or have recipes of your own, I want to hear about your experiences so be sure to leave your comments. Thank you!

[1] "The Avocado Advantage." WebMD - Better Information. Better Health. 14 Aug. 2000. Web. 15 July 2011. <http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/avocado-advantage>.

Note: This information is not intended to be used to treat, heal, or cure any medical condition. Please consult your physician with any health issues you may have.