by A Kairi

Created on: September 17, 2009

The avocado fruit is much more than the tasty main ingredient in guacamole. Avocado is rich in moisturizing vitamin E and monosaturated fats and shine enhancing B vitamins. The fruit is also a great source of natural enzymes making it a great choice for homemade face mask recipes. I formulated the following recipe to draw upon avocado's beauty care properties along with those of yogurt and honey to make a face mask that will soothe and moisturize skin while deep cleaning it.

You will need the following implements to make and use this recipe: 1 small mixing bowl; 1 large fork; 1 small plate or dish; 1 large plastic or wooden mixing spoon; tablespoon for measuring; 2 soft washcloths.

You will need the following ingredients to prepare this recipe: 1 small, very ripe avocado; 1 teaspoon honey, 1 cup of yogurt.

The avocado, honey and yogurt are all very moisturizing. The honey will also help kill bacteria that cause acne. Yogurt is naturally germicidal providing deep cleansing and skin toning.

Begin preparing the recipe by placing 1 cup of plain, unsweetened yogurt into the mixing bowl. If your skin could also use exfoliation feel free to add 3 tablespoons of sugar to the yogurt at this time, stirring thoroughly after the addition.

After adding the yogurt (and the sugar if you chose to) prepare the avocado. Cut the avocado in half and scrap it out of its skin onto the small plate. Use the large fork to mash the avocado until the fruit is smooth and then add it to the mixing bowl. Stir the mixture until the avocado and yogurt are well blended.

Next add the teaspoon of honey to the mixture and stir well until all of the ingredients are well blended. If you wish you can now refrigerate the mixture for 20 to 30 minutes so it will be cool and soothing on your skin during use.

While the mixture is cooling prepare your skin for the mask by washing it with warm water to open your pores. Then apply a thick layer of the mixture to your skin taking care to avoid your eye area. Allow the mask to set for roughly 10 minutes. Use a soft, wet wash cloth to remove the mask, using small circular motions. If you chose to add sugar the circular motions will aid the exfoliation process.

After removing the majority of the mask, splash your face repeatedly with cool water to close your pores and then pat your skin dry with a soft cloth. The recipe will make enough of the face mask for two applications. Share it with a friend or store the leftover mixture in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Please note that many natural ingredients can cause allergic reactions in people that use them. Avoid any ingredients that you know you are allergic to and discontinue using any formulations that cause skin irritation, hives or other signs of an allergic reaction.

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