To refine and clear pores

• Aspirin. A form of salicylic acid, an aspirin mask helps to treat and prevent breakouts. Simply dissolve a few tablets in warm water and mix to create a paste.


• Strawberries, papaya or pineapple. Fruits are a natural source of alpha hydroxy acids, helping to exfoliate your skin. They’re also rich in antioxidants.


• Lemon or lime juice. These natural astringents help to close the pores, brighten the complexion and fade acne scars or age spots.


• Egg whites. Throw out the yolk and use just the whites of an egg to tighten the skin and shrink pores. Beat until frothy and apply alone or mix with other ingredients.

To moisturize

• Egg yolk is a soothing ingredient full of fatty substances to replenish dehydrated skin.


• Bananas contain calcium and vitamins. Their creamy texture is great for dry skin.


• Avocado is full of good-for-you fats, protein and vitamins.


• Honey is antiseptic, hydrating and cleanses the skin. It's also able to remove impurities from the pores.

To balance and rejuvenate

• Yogurt. The gentle acids in yogurt help to restore the natural acid balance of the skin. Use natural, unflavored yogurt.

To exfoliate

• Brown sugar helps to gently exfoliate dead skin cells.


• Coffee grounds are full of skin-rejuvenating caffeine and are a source of antioxidants.

To thicken your mask

• Powdered milk is a gentle and skin-softening ingredient.


• Cornstarch is often used as a substitute for talc. It’s a gentle ingredient that almost anyone can use.


• Oatmeal is very soothing to the skin, helping to gently cleanse and reduce itching.

To thin your mask

• Milk contains protein and lactic acid. For dry skin, use cream; for oilier skin, try low-fat or skim milk.


• Buttermilk is an acidic ingredient perfect for acneic skin.


• Oils have a consistency similar to sebum, the body’s natural skin moisturizer, and are rich in vitamins. Use olive or avocado oil for dry skin, and almond, jojoba or grape seed oil for oily or combination skin.


• Apple cider vinegar helps to restore the skin’s pH balance and is naturally antibacterial. It softens and brightens the complexion and is an effective choice for acneic skin.


• Aloe vera is naturally anti-inflammatory and contains skin-healthy vitamins that are great for irritated skin.

Note: With all facials, test a small part of the skin before using to make sure your skin doesn’t react adversely to the mixture. Behind the ear is a good place to conduct your test. Also, only apply facials one to two times a week to give your skin time to adjust in between applications.

Learn everything you need to know about budget skincare and a natural beauty routine in our Beauty on a Budget Handbook and Natural Beauty Handbook.