DIY: natural face masks

Beauty doesn't have to cost the earth. The ingredients for these naturally hydrating face masks can be found in your kitchen.

You’ll be surprised that the humble banana is a heavyweight in the beauty domain. It’s a rich source of potassium, so makes a great natural moisturiser, and it contains powerful antioxidant properties thanks to its vitamins A and C content. Honey is another winning natural ingredient. As well as being antibacterial, it’s a natural humectant, meaning it helps replenish moisture in your skin.

Ingredients
1 tablespoon raw honey
3 tablespoons avocado
2 tablespoons yoghurt
1/2 ripe banana

Method
Mix all the ingredients together until smooth. Now apply the face mask to your cleansed face and gently massage your skin for 2-3 minutes. Leave the mask on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse it off with warm water. For best results, repeat two or three times a week.

You may associate turmeric with your favourite curries, but it’s also a real skin-saving hero with its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and wound-healing properties. Meanwhile, that pantry staple baking soda has antiseptic, antifungal and antibacterial effects. Combine those with the natural lightening power of lemon juice and the all-round goodness of raw honey and you have a beauty powerhouse right there.

Ingredients
1 tablespoon raw honey
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon ground tumeric

Method
Mix all the ingredients together until smooth, then apply a thin coat to your cleansed face. Leave the mask on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse it off with warm water. For best results, use once a week.