With the holidays quickly approaching, our stress levels tend to increase.  A lot of stress triggers an inflammatory response in our bodies and on our skin.  That is why we are more prone to breakouts, acne, and an aging complexion during stressful times.  To help prevent or relieve stress-related dermatological issues at any time of the year (not just the holidays), you can make your own healing face mask using anti-inflammatory ingredients right from your kitchen!  Not only can the nutrients in healthy foods be absorbed internally, but they can also be assimilated topically!  So, treat yourself and beat inflammatory skin issues with...

Adeline’s Antidote to Acne and Aging

Ingredients (use organic whenever possible):

·      1 green tea bag

·      2/3 cup unsweetened almond milk

·      1/3 cup rolled oats

·      1/2  tbsp raw honey

·      1/2  tsp ground cinnamon

Directions:

1.     Cut open the green tea bag and empty loose tea leaves into a small pot.

2.     Add the unsweetened almond milk into the pot and bring to a boil.

3.     Reduce heat to a simmer and add the rolled oats.  Stir occasionally for 5 minutes or until the almond milk has been absorbed and the mixture is a paste-like consistency.

4.     Remove the pot from the heat and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.  (During the summer months, the mixture can be placed in the fridge for a cooling and invigorating face mask!)

5.     Apply the mixture all over a clean, dry face. 

6.     Leave it on for about 10-15 minutes and then, rinse it off well with water.

7.     Follow up with your usual toner and moisturizer and enjoy your more refreshed looking skin!

So what are the benefits?

• Green tea contains polyphenols, which help protect the skin against inflammation and cancer.[i]
• Almond milk infuses this face mask with vitamin E.  Only about 1 cup (240 ml) of almond milk contains 50% of the Daily Value of vitamin E!  This powerful antioxidant has been shown to protect the skin against cancer and photo-aging (i.e. aging caused by chronic exposure to ultraviolet light) when applied topically.[ii]
• Oatshave an anti-inflammatory and soothing effect on the skin[iii], which explains why many skincare companies are incorporating oat extracts into their products.
• Raw honey is an effective antimicrobial[iv] that can help keep breakouts at bay.
• Cinnamon is a great antimicrobial against breakouts and its scent alone boosts brain function[v], which may be impaired by stress.  So, sniff some cinnamon to turn on your thinking caps!

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