How to Make an Herbal Facial for Relaxation

Lavender is commonly used as an ingredient in skin care products.

When you prefer to use natural ingredients on your skin, create your own facial treatment at home. Making your own herbal facial ensures that you know exactly what is in the product and allows you to tailor it to your specific needs. When relaxation is high on your list of priorities, choose lavender -- well-known for its soothing properties -- as an ingredient in your homemade herbal facial.

Things You'll Need

• Small mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon glycerin oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon powdered milk
• 6 drops lavender essential oil
• Washcloth
• Facial towel

Instructions

1. Combine 1 egg yolk and 1 tablespoon each of glycerin, honey and powdered milk in a small mixing bowl. Even though glycerin feels syrupy, it is water soluble and will wash off easily with water -- or with soap and water -- after use.

2. Stir the ingredients with a wooden spoon until they are completely blended. The powdered milk helps thicken the mixture to prevent it from running when you apply it to your face.

3. Add 6 drops of lavender essential oil to the mixture and stir thoroughly. Lavender is renowned for its relaxing properties and is often used for relaxation purposes by trained herbalists.

4. Apply the mixture to your skin and leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes. Lie down, close your eyes and practice slow, deep breathing so you can inhale the relaxing scent of the lavender while your facial does its work.

5. Wash off your facial afterward with a washcloth and warm water. Gently pat your face dry with a clean facial towel.

Tips & Warnings

• Experiment by adding additional ingredients to your facial like lemon juice, oatmeal, chamomile or mint.

• Avoid getting your herbal facial in your eyes or mouth.

References

• University of Maryland Medical Center: Lavender
• "Can We Live 150 Years?: Your Body Maintenance Handbook"; Mikhail Tombak, Ph.D.