Christmas time or any other time of celebration often wrecks havoc on our skins. How often do you wake up in the morning during these times, look in the mirror and wish you hadn’t?

* Where did those wrinkles around your eyes suddenly come from?

* Why does your skin look taut?

* Where has the bloom gone?

* Why do my eyes look piggy?

* What has happened to my face?

If any of the above apply to you, now is the time to start taking more care of yourself.

In these difficult economic times many of us just cannot afford luxuries such as moisturizing creams, beauty masks facial tonics, under eye cream — the list goes on, so it is now time to raid the fridge or larder and prepare yourself some home made beauty products.

The following are a few yummy recipes that do not cost the earth,. Not only will you benefit from the effect of the natural ingredients it is also sometimes necessary to give yourself a little private pampering that will result in you feeling and  looking better and able to cope once again with the onslaught of party times.
VITAMIN E CREAM

2 tsp. plain yogurt
1/2 tsp. honey
1/2 tsp. lemon juice
3 capsules vitamin E  (equivalent of 300 units)

Combine yogurt, honey and lemon juice. Open the vitamin E capsules and fold contents into the mix. Gently massage into skin; Leave on skin for 15 minutes.  Shelf life: 3-4 days.

Vitamin E is an anti oxidant that has been scientifically proven  to prevent free radical damage caused by too much exposure to the sun.

SPA INDEX HONEY OATMEAL FACIAL

1/4 cup plain yogurt or buttermilk
1/2 cup oatmeal
2 tablespoons of honey

Finely grind or process the oatmeal in a blender or food mixer. Set aside. In a small bowl, stir together honey and yogurt, and then add ground oatmeal. Mix thoroughly until a smooth paste consistency has been reached. Smooth over your face and neck, leave on for fifteen minutes, then rinse off with warm water. Can be used daily.

Honey is now accepted as having powerful medical and antisceptic properties.

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