The upcoming new year brings with it the desire for renewal. However, if you haven’t gotten the chance to take care of yourself yet, you mustn’t worry! You can still shine, even at the very last minute, with the following 2 simple, easy and quick “do-it-yourself” beauty recipes.
Radiance and luminosity mask
Firstly, if your goal is to get a bright and clean skin, you shouldn’t skip the most basic daily care steps, summarized in the triptych: cleansing, moisturization, sun protection. Thus, wash your face -morning and evening- thoroughly, apply your favorite moisturizing creams for the face and the eyes, not neglecting your sunscreen, and -for an “extra” touch of shine and luminosity- try this simple, but effective face mask!
Pour the water into a pot and add the rice. Let it soak for 5′ and then boil it on low heat until it becomes tender enough.
Drain the rice and place it into a bowl. Save the boiling water separately in a clean bottle.
Add the milk, honey and rice oil to the bowl of rice and mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and uniform.
Take a sufficient amount and apply on your face. Leave on for 20′-30′ and then rub lightly, in circular upward motions, until the thick pieces are removed.
Use the rice water and a piece of cotton to go over your face and clean off the mask residues. Repeat one more time, allowing the rice water to dry. Rinse with warm water, pat dry with a towel and -instead of a face cream- apply rice oil.
Why to do it:
Brown rice contains an abundance of nutrients such as fiber, minerals and non-minerals (magnesium, calcium, potassium, manganese, phosphorus, zinc, iron, selenium, etc.) as well as proteins and vitamins (mainly of the B complex, but also E and K) that offer a youthful, healthy and protected skin. They will nourish and moisturize the skin, stimulate cell regeneration, help to improve blood circulation and – most importantly – protect cells against oxidative stress, which is responsible for aging and photoaging. Honey and milk will strengthen skin’s natural moisturizing factor (NMF), providing more than the 40% of the necessary amino acids, which are important for maintaining the normal metabolic activity of cells, since they participate in the synthesis of both collagen and elastin. Rice water, full of antioxidant elements, has the property to absorb ultraviolet rays and eliminate the melanin production, preventing the formation of spots or freckles as well as softening the existing ones. Finally, rice bran oil will regenerate the cells and gradually provide a uniform skin (color) tone.
With this mask, your skin will acquire a natural glow, a uniform color tone and a youthful appearance!
Lip scrub
Apart from a shiny face, we all desire beautiful, smooth and soft lips. Quickly prepare the easiest lip scrub with only 3 ingredients.
Place all the ingredients into a bowl and mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and uniform. Take a sufficient amount and gently massage your lips in circular motions for 2-3′. Wipe gently or rinse off with lukewarm water and -ideally- apply a lip balm afterwards.
Why to do it:
Coconut oil is known for its moisturizing and healing properties, while brown sugar makes the perfect exfoliator, due to its uneven grains. As for the cinnamon? In addition to its wonderful smell, it will tone your lips, offering a more “juicy” appearance.
Finally, since the way we feel reflects on our skin and overall appearance, it’s very important to stay in a good mood. Banish everyday stress, set yourself free and forget about the rules for a while. Go out, have fun, drink, eat and welcome the new year brighter and more smiling than ever!