3 Step Skin Detox Ritual

DIY facial steam ritual
Detox your skin and practice some loving self care with this three-step beauty ritual. You will remove dead skin cells, steam clean, and purify for baby soft, glowing skin.
Spring is the season of renewal, and this time of year has my schedule packed with clients seeking to slough off winter skin with a deep cleansing facial.  
For those of you who can’t make it into my Brooklyn, NY office here is the DIY version of my spring cleansing facial for you to enjoy at home!

What you’ll need  

  • Exfoliant
  • Natural clay mask
  • Large bowl for steaming
  • 2 herbal tea bags
  • Optional: raw honey
Time: about 30 minutes

Preparation

Select two tea bags for your herbal steam — I like lemongrass to purify. You can use just about anything herbal you have on hand though. Chamomile is great for soothing and peppermint will give you more tingle.
Boil water, and pour into a large bowl, then add your tea bags. Let it cool and brew for at least five minutes. While your steam is steeping, go ahead with step one.

Step 1: Exfoliate

My current favorite is Josh Rosebrook’s Active Enzyme Exfoliator, which is an amazing concoction of honey, walnut shells, and herbs. For more sensitive skin types including inflamed acne, I really like Dr. Alkaitis’ Exfoliating Mask.Josh Rosebrook ExfoliantDr Alkaitis exfoliant
Both of these exfoliants work best when they stay on the skin for a little while, as they contain enzymes which need time to do their thing. So these masks can stay on your skin while you steam.
For exfoliants which are not enzyme-based, all you have to do is scrub, rinse, and pat dry.

Step 2: Steam

Set a timer for 5-10 minutes. Make a steam tent over you and your bowl by draping a towel over your head and shoulders. Breathe deeply, relax, and steam away. I love this step — you’ll come out of your “tent” all rosy and renewed!
Added bonus: the steam can alleviate seasonal sinus pressure.
Important note: Make sure to back off if the steam feels too hot. Sensitive and inflamed skin types should let the water cool for a few extra minutes, and steaming should be avoided altogether with rosacea.

Step 3: Mask

Clay masks are skin cleansing champions. Clay is super absorbent — it soaks up excess oils and toxins from your skin.clay mask
You can find a plain, powder clay mask at most health food stores, or order it online. I use Shea Terra’s clay in my practice.
Mix the powder with water until it forms a thick but spreadable paste. Apply the clay with fingertips, and set your timer for 10 minutes. If you have dry skin, try mixing a teaspoon of raw honey in with your clay, and place a damp washcloth over your face so the clay doesn’t dry.

>>  >> Read more about the benefits of honey for your skin
Remove mask with warm water and a washcloth (don’t worry, the clay comes out in the wash!). Apply your usual toner and moisturizer.
Final step: pat yourself on the back for doing some amazing self care, and flaunt your gorgeous, glowing skin!

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