A great natural skin care treatment to add to your routine. The aspirin mask is becoming quite popular now, but is not new to the skin care world.
Aspirin ( acetylsalicylic acid) is a derivative of salicylic acid It is anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, ( a beta hydroxayl acid ) it acts as a powerful exfoliant that sloughs off dead, dry skin cells that clog pores, cleaning them and stimulating collagen and new skin cell growth as well as healing blemishes.
Honey is naturally anti-septic, anti-bacterial, anti-microbial and hydrating (a humectant), killing bacteria, reducing swelling and moisturizing the skin. No kidding.
Lemon is optional in this recipe. It is also a salicylic acid, if you are having problems with breakouts, blackheads etc, lemon juice will help unclog the pores which is the main reason for breakouts. It's vitalmin C helps minimize sun damage also.
Water or Jojoba oil ( or other vegetable oil like grapeseed or olive ) Joboba is preferred as it is closest to the skins natural sebum, but it is pricey.
RECIPE: Can be used as an all over mask or as a spot treatment for blemishes. I personally have never used this as a full facial mask only as a spot treatment.
FOR SPOT TREATMENT:First warm up honey, just a small amount.
Use uncoated aspirins, but if you have the coated variety just hold them under warm water and rub between your fingers until the coating wears off, you can tell when this happens as the aspirin feels gritty and will dissolve quickly in your hand.
Add aspirin to your honey. Add a drop or two of lemon juice optional. Stir well.
Apply to troubled spots on your face. Acne, pimples, white spots from ingrown hairs, blackheads. Leave on for 10 minutes, rinse.
FOR AN ALL OVER FACIAL MASK:
Dissolve a few aspirins in water, literally a few drops of water per aspirin. Add warmed honey. Stir. Add a few drops of desired oil, optional.
If your mask is too thick add a drop of water at a time to it. Apply over face, stay away from eye area. Leave on 10 mins.
Rinse well. This is better to do in the shower so you do not get any aspirin in your eyes.
Do not use the aspirin mask if you are allergic to aspirin, or if you can not take aspirin for any other reasons.
Aspirin is not suitable for children under 12.