DIY MORNING MASK

Some mornings we wake up feeling dull, unmotivated or just need a little pick me up to get our day started. Here is a quick mask I use for the days when I need a little TLC in the AM.

This quick and easy coffee masks requires just two ingredients that can be found in every household - milk and coffee. The gentle exfoliation leaves my skin feeling baby soft. After I use the mask my skin looks brighter, fresher and smoother.

How to make:

1 tablespoon of ground coffee (caffeinated)

1 tablespoon of milk (preferably raw)

Pour the measured coffee and milk into a bowl. Mix the contents together with a spoon until it is a smooth paste.

This mask will remove the surface layer of dead skin. My skin is very sensitive and most exfoliators such as scrubs and masks are too harsh for my skin. However, this mask doesn't leave my skin red, burned or irritated. My skin is left looking brighter and smoother. This combats any morning puffiness and helps my makeup apply better.

Ingredient Benefits

Coffee:

Coffee is high in antioxidants. Antioxidants help protect our skin from free radical damage - help fight aging. Coffee can also help keep the skin hydrated by reducing trans epidermal water loss which is the way moisture evaporates from the skin. Some studies have shown coffee grounds help protect the skin against damage from UV-B rays. Masks such as these that include coffee grounds can help protect the skin against wrinkle formation and sun damage. This however isn't a substitute for sunscreen. Sunscreen is still required to protect yourself from sunburn and aging effects of the sun.

Milk:

Milk is rich B-vitamins, alpha hydroxy acids, calcium and many other potent antioxidants. It has many skin benefits. It will nourish skin cells and keep skin moisturized all day. For acne-prone skin, it will gently exfoliate and gradually cure acne. For oily skin, it draws out excess sebum and tightens pores.

Nutrients in Milk and Their Benefits for the Skin:

Vitamin A - Treats dry, flaky and peeling skin. Essential for healthy new cell division.

Vitamin D - For youthful glowing skin. Boosts collagen production. Slows down fine lines and wrinkles. Protects skin from free radicals that cause premature aging. Helps fade dark spots and marks. Reduces acne. Promotes skin elasticity.

Vitamin B6 - Necessary for new skin cell formation. Keeps skin moisturized and healthy.

Biotin - For healthy skin. Heals dry, withered skin. Revitalizes dry, cracked skin.

Protein - For tissue repair and growth. Promotes strong wrinkle-free skin.

Vitamin B12 - Heals rough uneven skin. Has skin-lightening properties. Useful for evening out skin discolorations and acne scars.

Lactic Acid - Moisturizes, hydrates and nourishes dry skin. Keeps skin looking youthful by combating free radicals that age skin.

Potassium - Hydrates and moisturizes skin. Solves dry, itchy skin.

Calcium - Makes up the topmost layer of skin. Boosts collagen production. Promotes skin elasticity. Fights free radical activity.

Magnesium - For youthful, radiant skin. Slows down the aging process.

Selenium - Fights free radicals that cause skin aging. Protects skin against sun damage. Helps maintain skin firmness and elasticity, making it look more youthful.

How to use:

Once the ingredients are mixed into a paste, I use the back of the mixing spoon to apply the mask to my face (this prevents the coffee grinds from getting into my nails).

Apply the paste evenly all over the face and jawline. I avoid the eye area as it is sensitive.

Leave on for 10-15 minutes.

Wash off gently with warm water and a washcloth.

I'll make this mask after my workouts and have it on while I make breakfast. It's a great pick me up on mornings when I'm not feeling my best or when I have some extra time. I hope you all enjoyed this quick and easy DIY. Feel free to comment below with any questions, concerns and more. My socials will also be down below!

Happy masking! xoxo

- Liv

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