Seaweed and Lemon Detoxifying Face Mask

This is not the face mask for the faint of heart, or for dry, sensitive skin types. It is for those who have oily skin and are likely to do battle with regular blemishes. This detoxifying face mask combines seaweed powder with lemon to draw out impurities and to tone the skin. Try using it once a week to reduce breakouts and to give your skin a softer, cleaner complexion, naturally.

Seaweed is an excellent tonic for the face. We are talking serious nutrients for the skin and a powerful natural detox. Seaweed will help to draw the bad stuff out — oil, bacteria, and dirt — while supplying the skin with a rich dose of nutrients. Vitamins and minerals from the sea include vitamin C, B vitamins, potassium, and zinc. Zinc in particular is great for reducing acne because of its anti-bacterial properties. Seaweed also stimulates circulation and helps to balance moisture levels. I like to use Starwest Botanicals Organic Kelp Powder -- 1 lb, which you can use for all your beauty care needs, but you can also throw a tablespoon into smoothies for a boost of minerals.

Combine the benefits of seaweed for the skin with the astringent action of fresh lemon juice and you have a dynamic detox facial for your skin, without having to pay for a high-end face mask. Lemon will help to tighten pores and draw the skin together, reducing overall sebum production. Lemon is also naturally anti-bacterial. Be sure to use fresh lemon juice. Squeeze out a small amount for your mask and then use the rest in a fresh strawberry, papaya, and kelp powder smoothie, which is a great antioxidant boost for your skin. If you have sensitive skin, lemon can be irritating. You may want to try a gentler face mask, such as a honey and yogurt facial.

To make this detoxifying face mask you will need:

• 3 teaspoons seaweed powder
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• purified water, enough to make a paste

First get your face ready to absorb the sea minerals and lemon. One way to do this is to run a clean wash cloth under hot water. Then rest it on the face for about thirty seconds, warming, opening, and stimulating. Next mix the seaweed powder with juice and water in a small bowl. With your fingers, spread the mask over your skin. Once you have a nice even coating of the seaweed and lemon face mask, then let it set for up to ten minutes. Use your same cloth that you used to open pores to wash off the mask. Dry and put on a moisturizer to keep your skin soft and supple, but not oily! Be sure to use a face lotion that contains sun protection if you are going outside. Lemon juice increases the skin's sensitivity to the sun.