Ladies, the festive season is almost upon us and I don’t know about you, but the festive season is synonymous with chocolate in my household. Christmas is also a time for a bit of a splurge for those of you who are lucky to get bonuses in December. You don’t need to splurge on a good anti-aging mask though. The ingredients for this yummy one are probably all in your kitchen right now!

1. Three tablespoons cocoa powder – cocoa is simply one of the most awesome antioxidants out there! It is not only a great cancer-fighter, but it also helps to combat premature aging and helps keep us happy by releasing serotonin into our systems. Not everyone knows that it is the milk in milk chocolate that can sometimes play havoc with our complexions and cause blemishes. Milk can also inhibit the absorption of the antioxidants in tea and cocoa drinks, so bear that in mind when you prepare your next cuppa.

2. Mash up one avocado pear – Avos are rich in omega 3s so they are great in assisting to reduce inflammation and are great moisturisers.

3. Two dessertspoons honey – honey is awesome as it helps to open those pores to deep cleanse and detoxify your skin. It also has anti-bacterial properties so it’s great for fighting off infections.

4. Two tablespoons of oatmeal – Oatmeal is a brilliant exfoliant. It’s effective, but gentle at the same time and also has healing properties.

5. Green tea– Green tea is well-renowned for being rich in anti-oxidants so will help fight off free radicals.

This mask is super-easy to prepare! No blending required. Make your green tea, allow it to cool and then gradually add it to the rest of the ingredients until you have formed a nice paste.

Once prepared, you can just apply it to your facial skin and neck area. I also like to apply masks to my décolletage as this is an often neglected area. Gently massage the paste into your skin to get the full exfoliating effect of the oatmeal and then go and relax with your feet up and a book in hand. Perhaps sip on the rest of your green tea! After twenty minutes are up, you can gently rinse off the mixture with some warm water and pat your skin dry. Voila, gorgeous glowing skin!

I love this mask and I have used it a few times. My skin always looks great after using it! Let me know if you decide to try it and what you thought about it.

You could try a Sorbet Face Mask which are easy to use at home and is inexpensive, but gives the results of a spa facial.

Article by Maryanne Young