basl@shaw.ca.
Best regards
Barry Lycka
http://www.ecsaonline.com
The Real You Under the Mask
Copyright (c) 2007 Barry Lycka
There's no need to hide behind a mask! Facial masks help
improve the appearance and texture of your face. To achieve
a healthier, more youthful glow to your skin. They might
help you delay plastic surgery. All you need to do is find
the right mask at your local drug store, or make your own
mask out of all-natural products.
There are many facial masks on the market, so there's no
excuse to forego this important step in your beauty
regimen. Here are some types
*Mud masks ? for oil absorption
*Hydrating masks ? which moisturize dry skin
* Perfecting masks ? replenish dull skin
Here are some of the ingredients
*Clay ? a key component in masks that removes dirt and dead
skin, absorbs excess oils, tightens the skin and helps to
stimulate blood circulation
*Curd, cucumbers, lemon juice and brewer's yeast ? these
restore skin's acid/alkali balance
*Gel masks ? remove dead skin, and even facial hairs and
blackheads; can be used for all skin types
* Cream masks ? nourish the skin cells; not recommended for
young or oily skin
One important thing to keep in mind about facial masks is
that they can sometimes act as an exfoliant. So if you have
included exfoliating in your cleansing routine, be sure
your mask doesn't exfoliate too.
How to Use a Mask
When applying your face mask, follow the directions
carefully. If you'd like to try making your own face mask,
here's some suggestions:
If You Have Oily skin: Mix a half of cup cooked, cold
oatmeal with an egg white, a half cup of mashed apple and
one tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. It should turn into a
paste. Apply this mixture to your face and let it set for
about 10 minutes. Wipe it off with a coarse cloth and rinse
with lukewarm water.
If You Have Dry skin: Combine an egg yolk with a half cup
of cooked oatmeal, a half mashed banana and a tablespoon of
honey. Make sure it cools before applying it to your face.
Keep the mask on for fifteen minutes and then rinse with
cool water.
If You Have Sensitive skin: Mix a whole egg, a half cup of
cooked oatmeal and 1 tablespoon of almond oil together.
Apply to your face once the mixture has cooled and let it
set for ten minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water.
Should You Try A Mask?
If you have oily or normal skin and no known allergies or
sensitivities, give it a try. But if you have sensitive
skin, only try a mask if your skin care professional gives
the go ahead.
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Barry A. S. Lycka is one of North America's foremost
authorities on cosmetic, skin cancer, reconstructive and
laser surgery of the skin. You can find out more at
htttp://www.barrylyckamd.com and
http://www.restoringyouthonline.com . He is also founder of
The Ethical Cosmetic Surgery Association
(www.ecsaonline.com)
