Homemade Facial for Oily Skin

Coping with oily skin can be a little challenging, especially during summer. The higher temperatures, particularly when associated with high levels of humidity, can exacerbate the problem and lead to sebum (oil) overproduction, which often results in blemishes. However, oily skin actually has some great benefits, such as keeping the skin looking younger longer. A proper, daily skin care regimen, along with occasional facial treatments, can help keep oily skin healthy and balanced. Here are the instructions to do an easy, inexpensive homemade facial treatment.

Things You'll Need

• Face cleanser
• Face towel
• 2 large strawberries
• 1 tablespoon of plain yogurt
• Fork
• Knife
• Bowl
• Facial mask brush (or a flat foundation brush)

Before You Mask, Cleanse Your Skin
Cleanse your skin before applying any treatment. Use a mild face cleanser that is detergent/alcohol-free (detergent and alcohol can irritate the skin), and water-soluble (so that it will rinse-off clear). Cleansers that are not water-soluble may leave product residue on the skin and clog the pores, leading to blemishes.

Gently massage the cleanser onto your skin in circular motion(small circles) to lift dirt and oil off the skin. Rinse off residue with lukewarm water. Pat the skin dry with a clean face towel.

Tip
If you have oily skin, cleanse your face two times a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. While cleansing more often than twice a day may seem like a great way to remove excess oil from the skin, overdoing it can lead to irritation and more oil production.

The Science Behind the Mask
Strawberries are a natural source of salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid that is recognized and recommended by dermatologists as an exfoliating agent. Salicylic acid dissolves excess oil on the skin, unclogs the pores, and loosens blackheads, revealing clear skin. It also offers anti-inflammatory benefits so it soothes the skin.

Yogurt is a natural source of lactic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid, also recommended by dermatologists. Like salicylic acid, lactic acid acts as an exfoliating agent by breaking down the substance that holds dead skin together. Additionally, lactic acid is a humectant, helping the skin to retain moisture.

Salicylic acid and lactic acid complement each other nicely, as the first has a slightly drying effect, while the second one helps the skin to stay hydrated. Together they help to exfoliate the skin and reveal fresh, clear, calm skin.

How to Mix Up Your Mask
In a bowl, chop two large strawberries and mash them flat. Add one tablespoon of yogurt and mix the ingredients.

With a brush, apply the mask to the skin (avoiding the eye area) and leave on for about 10-15 minutes. Discard any leftovers. Rinse the skin until no residue is left, and pat it dry. Follow with the application of your toner of choice.

Tip
If you have oily skin, opt for an oil-free and alcohol-free toner. Some essential oils and alcohol can irritate the skin. Choose instead a toner with anti-inflammatory benefits that come from ingredients like aloe, witch hazel, cucumber, or green tea.