We’re approaching one of the busiest times of the year, and it’s always a good idea to make sure you’re prioritizing self-care! I haven’t always been great at prioritizing something so important, but as I’ve had more children and been victim to the many hormonal changes my body has gone through the past 12 years, I’ve come to realize that self-care is definitely not selfish and is critical in making sure your mental health is in good condition!

And one form of self-care is a good ol’ fashioned facial mask! I’ve only started using masks the past year, and while it’s not something I do all the time, it definitely feels so luxurious! I love the feel of my skin afterwards, and I do feel it helps with my overall skin health. Plus it’s an excuse to just sit and read a good book ;).

While you can definitely buy masks from the grocery store or Amazon, you can also create your own with ingredients you have in the kitchen! Different foods focus on different things. Some act as a healant, which is great if you’ve got sunburn or some other minor damage on your face. Other masks will focus on cleansing and preventing/helping breakouts, reducing inflammation, some claim to help with wrinkles, and others just feel rejuvenating or relaxing!

Whether or not they actually do the things they claim- masks do feel good on your skin and definitely feel luxurious! You can use just one of these ingredients or combine a couple of them to create a perfect, unique-to-you mask that takes care of all your needs!

• Oats- We’re all familiar with the good ol’ oatmeal bath to take care of skin irritations like chicken pox and eczema- so it makes perfect sense for it to be good for your face as well! Oats have great antiinflammatory properties thanks to a nutrient called avenanthramide, so let your skin soak it up! Just grind up oats and mix with a little honey for the perfect anti-inflammation mask.


• Avocado- This is another great anti-inflammatory! It’s also super hydrating, so if you need that added benefit this is a great option!


• Bananas- Another great moisturizer with lots of vitamins and minerals! And let’s be honest- you probably have one rotting in your kitchen right now ;). Put it to good use!


• Apple Cider Vinegar- Great for cleansing and inflammation- if you can get past the strong smell ;). I know people that use this as a more natural option for a facial toner! Be sure to avoid the eye area!


• Berries- These are full of antioxidants and Vitamin C and make a great soothing, healing mask- just mash them up and spread them gently!


• Plain yogurt- The lactic acid in yogurt acts as an exfoliation tool that can help remove dead skin in a more gentle manner than other methods. It also acts as an anti-aging tool with its antioxidant properties!


• Honey- This sweet treat is full of antibacterial properties that can fight acne and leave your skin nice and clean! It’s also a great moisturizer and can calm stressed skin (e.g. redness, swelling, etc).


• Lemons and Oranges- These citrus fruits will help tighten your pores and leave your skin bright and glowing! Lemon is also a great natural cleanser, helping to kill bacteria. And you’ll smell absolutely irresistible!


• Cucumbers- There’s a reason we always see the cliche cucumber slices at spas- they are cooling, soothing, and are full of antioxidants that reduce irritation and puffiness- hence why they’re great on your eyes!


• Tomatoes- These are actually super nourishing for your skin as well! They are full of potassium and can actually help with skin cell regeneration, making them a great anti-aging mask! (Or to take care of those pesky dark circles under your eyes!

As you can see, there are so many things in the kitchen that you can use to help you have your own, cheap DIY spa night. Your skin and mental health will thank you!