Home Baked Beauty: Audra James’ five minute facial

Facialist Audra James recently posted a five-minute, at-home facial recipe on her blog Audra James – Bespoke Beauty. I’ve not tried it myself but it sounds gorgeous and indulgent. Audra writes:

Here’s a 5 minute facial I’ve created that works whenever you need to give both your skin and mood a boost.

Start by using an oil or cream based cleanser. Massage into the skin for one minute using firm circular movements, to help break down any congestion and relax the facial muscles.

Then dip a muslin cloth or white face cloth into a bowl of warm water in which 1-2 drops of lavender oil have been added.

Hold this over your face (eyes closed) – to compress the skin – whilst inhaling the aroma to relax. Use the cloth to wipe away any grime or makeup from the skin. Repeat this step, if you’re wearing heavy makeup.

Take a tablespoon of almond meal mixed with 1 drop of lemon oil and enough water to mix into a paste. Apply onto skin and leave for 30 seconds then remove with the same muslin cloth, using circular motions to gently exfoliate the skin at the same time.

Next, mix 1 teaspoon of sweet almond oil, jojoba or peach kernel oil with 1 drop of either Frankincense (firming), Geranium  (balancing) or Lavender (calming) oil has been added and apply in sweeping movements up the neck. Then, using circular movements, massage onto the face for one minute. At this point if possible, take a shower (if you are feeling tired add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to the base of the shower to wake you up). The heat and steam from the shower opens the pores and allows the oil to penetrate and gently plump up the skin.

Finish by dipping a clean muslin cloth into a cool bowl of water, to which one drop of lemon oil has been added. Roll up the cloth and apply to each section of the face.  The combination of gentle heat followed by a cooling sensation, relaxes and then energises both the skin and mood.

Thanks to Audra James.

PS, more Home Baked Beauty hiding right here!

*Image via Desire to Inspire.