Pampering Yourself at Home--Facial Masks

For when you can't make it to the spa and your face needs a little TLC, here are a few ideas for some facial masks you can make at home.

*Puree half a peeled, sliced cucumber in a food processor or blender and add one-tablespoon plain yogurt. Apply this to the face and let set for about 20 minutes. Gently wipe off with a damp washcloth. With zinc and lactic acid, yogurt is a great treatment for your skin. Cucumbers help hydrate your skin.

*Smoosh a handful of strawberries and mix well with one teaspoon honey. Apply this mixture to the face and let set for about 15 minutes. Gently wipe off with a damp washcloth. Strawberries are loaded with Vitamin C and help make your skin glow. Honey helps your skin retain moisture, is rich in Vitamin B, and contains antioxidants.

*Smash half of an avocado and apply this to the entire face. Let set for about 20 minutes and then gently wipe off with a damp washcloth. Rich in Vitamins A, D and E, avocado is good for very dry skin as well as sensitive skin. It helps reduce irritation and redness.

*Aspirin mask--good for acne and very oily skin. Crush up a few aspirin in a bowl, add enough water to make a slurry. Apply to your face with a cotton ball. Leave on for 10-15 mins. Gently wipe off with a damp washcloth and moisturize. Another variation is to add aloe vera gel or honey instead of water. The salicylic acid in aspirin is a good exfoliator. Honey would make this mask less drying, but make sure to use a non-comedongenic moisturizer on your face after this one.