RECIPES FOR THE SKIN

~ Three Steps For Stressed Out Skin

Step 1. Cleanse

Stimulating Facial Steam
1 1/2 quart of near boiling water
3 drops rosemary
3 drops peppermint
1/2 cup lemon grass
2 1/2 or 3 quart bowl
1 towel

Place the bowl where it is comfortably accessible. Put the lemon grass in the bottom of the bowl and add the near boiling water. Let cool slightly before adding the peppermint and rosemary. Sit about 12" or so from the bowl or facial sauna with the towel draped over your head to capture the steam for about 10 to 15 minutes. Take care not to burn yourself with the steam. The steamy vapors will open the pores, clear sinuses, and feel and smell wonderful on your skin.

Step 2. Tighten

Mud Pie Mask
2 tablespoons of clay (may be purchased at your local herb or health food store
1 1/2 tablespoons spring water or fruit juice
1 teaspoon olive oil, apricot oil, or almond oil
2 drops vitamin E oil

First mix the clay and liquid. Then add oils. When applying a clay mask, always apply it in at least a 1/8" thick layer and leave it on for no more than 15 minutes — avoid your sensitive eye area. With warm water, splash face 20 to 30 times, then blot dry.

Step 3. Tone

Flower Power Mist & Splash
1 quart distilled or spring water
1 1/2 cups dried rose petal, lavender, and marigold
1/2 cup aloe vera gel
1 large spray bottle

Bring water to a boil, add dried flowers and let steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain and cool. Add aloe vera gel. Pour liquid in the spray bottle and refrigerate. Use left over liquid as a facial splash or in the bath. When cold, spray the magic on throughout the day. Remember to keep floral waters refrigerated and always test new preparations on a small area before using. (Prepare Flower Power Mist & Splash before steps one and two as it must be refrigerated before use.)

~ Facial Fondue For Two

1/2 cup plain, thick yogurt
1/4 cup oatmeal (blended to a powder)
1 large carrot (cooked and mashed)
3 tablespoons honey
1 ripe avocado
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 egg yolk

Mix ingredients together in large bowl. Spread over the face and neck. Relax for 20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water, then with cold.

Yogurt—feeds the skin with protein and calcium; Carrot—high in beta carotene; Oatmeal—an extractive and nourishing; Honey—a moisturizer and softener; Avocado—rich in Vitamin E; Olive Oil—adds emollient qualities; and Egg Yolk—high in sulfur and Vitamin A.

~ Secret Glow Body Paste

1 teaspoon ground citrus fruit peel
3 teaspoons ground almonds
2 teaspoons oatmeal
1 teaspoon crushed, dried rose petals
1 pinch clove powder
1 pinch nutmeg powder
2 tablespoons almond oil
2 drops neroli (or citrus oil - lemon or orange)
2 drops sandalwood (or patchouli)

The luxurious and sensual body preparation removes dead skin cells and leaves the skin glowing, fragrant and soft as silk.