Each holiday gives us an opportunity to slow down and celebrate something meaningful to us; and the 4th of July is no exception.  On the 4th, we celebrate our independence with picnics, BBQ’s, fireworks, parades, and quality time with our families and friends.  Sometimes all of this fun can translate into zero down time to relax and rejuvenate.

In the spirit of creating some down time for yourself and your skin this 4th, here are 3 homemade facial treatments that can help you slow down before you celebrate:
 

The Red: Nourishing Raspberry + Honey Mask

Nothing screams “SUMMER” like a bushel of fresh raspberries (or any kind of berry for that matter).  Raspberries are packed with antioxidants and thus have strong skin rejuvenating benefits.  In addition, raspberries are known for their ability to brighten skin and improve elasticity. These sweet red gems are great for all skin types and when mashed and used topically they make an excellent gentle exfoliant. 

What You’ll Need:

• 6-8 fresh raspberries, mashed (organic is best)
• 1 TBSP raw honey
• 1 tsp. freshly ground flax seeds

How to Make: Mix mashed raspberries with honey and ground flax seeds to create a paste.  Spread evenly on clean, damp skin.  Leave on for 10-15 minutes and relax. Using warm water begin to make a gentle circular motion all over your face.  This will allow the raspberry seeds and ground flax to work its exfoliating magic.  And finally, wash off the remaining bits of the mask and finish with antioxidant-rich facial oil.  Some of our favorites are argan, marula, rosehip and coconut oil. 

The White: Easy Breezy Egg White Mask

Egg White has been used as a main ingredient in facemasks for Millennia, and is an excellent stand-alone facial ingredient. Egg white helps to tighten skin and clean pores by pulling out toxins and excess sebum.  In addition, egg white is high in protein, which helps regenerate skin tissue and Magnesium, which contributes to a youthful glow and helps to slow down the skins aging process. 

How to Make: Beat together 1 egg white and 1 tsp. of freshly squeezed orange juice or water until stiff peaks form.  Massage the mixture into your face and neck and leave on for 10-15 minutes while lying down (this helps prevent the mask from running).  When the time is up, gently wash the mask away using a washcloth moistened with warm water.  Finish by gently massaging a few drops of facial oil into your skin.

The Blue: Hydrating Blueberry Avocado Face Pack 

Blueberries are another amazing, antioxidant rich berry for glowing skin. Blueberries help normalize the oil content in your skin, which plays a major role in the maintenance of healthy skin.  In addition, blueberries help to hydrate skin cells, even skin tone and combat acne and blemishes.  Yay blueberries!

What You’ll Need:

• 6-8 fresh blueberries, mashed (organic is best)
• 1 TBSP mashed avocado
• 1 tsp. chia seeds

How to Make: Mix mashed blueberries with avocado and chia seeds to create a paste.  Spread evenly on clean, damp skin.  Leave on for 10-15 minutes and relax. Using a warm, wet washcloth wipe away the mask and finish with antioxidant-rich facial oil.  Some of our favorites are argan, marula, rosehip and coconut oil.