There are so many reasons why autumn is the favorite season of many people (including me!). The air is cooler, the clothes are stylish, and the leaves turn beautiful red, orange, brown and yellow hues that make the trees appear as if beautiful blazing torches. In November, many observe a day of Thanksgiving to reflect on the things we are thankful for, spend time with our loved ones, and eat lots and lots of delicious food!
In the spirit of autumn holidays, I would like to share a couple of my favorite DIY skincare recipes featuring two of our favorite seasonal flavors: sage and nutmeg. They are not only delicious in your grandmother’s dressing and sweet potato pie recipes, but also, they provide wonderful benefits for your skin and overall health.
Sage has been shown to relieve chapped skin, soothe eczema and psoriasis, regulate sebum production, and unblock trapped toxins. It is also an astringent and can improve acne. In addition, it’s wonderful herbaceous scent is perfect for clearing the head and calming the spirit.
Nutmeg has been shown to improve circulation, reduce discoloration and hyperpigmentation, and tone and exfoliate the skin. It is an anti-inflammatory, and reduces excess oil production. It is also has antioxidant properties, and the scent? Heavenly.
So, without further ado, here are two simple beauty recipes to try:
Sage Facial Toner
Ingredients:
- rubbed sage
- witch hazel
- an empty cosmetic spray bottle
How to:
Place rubbed sage into your empty spray bottle until it is about ¼ of the way full. Pour witch hazel into the bottle until almost full – leaving a small amount of space at the top for mixing. Close the bottle and gently turn it upside down then right-side-up a few times. Allow the mixture to sit for 24 – 48 hours in a cool dark place. Once ready, apply with a cotton ball or a cotton facial pad after cleansing your face. Follow with your moisturizer. This wonderful toner can also be used throughout the day as a refreshing facial mist.
Nutmeg Facial Mask
Ingredients:
- 2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 4 tbsp raw honey
- 2 tbsp organic whole milk*
How to:
In a small dish, combine the milk and honey with a fork until well mixed. Add in the nutmeg and stir gently until distributed throughout. After cleansing your face, apply the mask in an even layer to your entire face using circular motions. Avoid the eye area. Allow the mask to sit for 10 – 15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and proceed with your toner and moisturizer.
*If you prefer, you may substitute coconut milk in place of whole milk; however, I recommend whole milk because the lactic acid in cow’s milk makes the skin beautifully smooth and supple.
Sage and nutmeg are staples of the season, and rightfully so! While using them to create beautiful recipes for the family table, don’t forget to set aside a little to keep your skin looking beautiful.
What are some of your favorite autumn beauty recipes?
Peace & Love,
