DIY face masks: beauty on a budget

Written by Jess Watt.

With the combination of little sleep, a poor diet and stress from the endless amounts of university work, it’s likely your skin may suffer.

As an increasing number of companies shove different products in your face ‘guaranteeing’ it will give you the lift you need, it can get slightly confusing what to trust too.

Therefore, what better way to beat the big brands than by making your own homemade face masks? Not only are they perfect for us cash-strapped students, but using natural ingredients means no nasty chemicals to your newly simplified skincare routine.

For great moisturisation, try this really easy avocado face mask.

You will need:

• 1/2 an avocado
• 1/4 cup of honey

1. Ensure your face is clean and dry.

2. Mash the avocado.

3. Stir in the honey to the avocado.

4. Apply to your face.

5. Leave for 10 minutes.

6. Rinse and pat your face dry.

For oily skin, have a go at a banana and honey face mask.

You will need:

• One ripe banana
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• Honey
• A dash of sea salt (optional)

1.  Mash the banana into a bowl and add one tablespoon of the lemon juice and one tablespoon of honey and mix well.

2.  Apply the mixture to your face and leave to sit for 15 minutes.

3.  Rinse off with warm water.

If you need a quick fix without the other ingredients, try a honey and yoghurt face mask for dry and flaky skin. Honey is used in a lot of DIY face masks because it’s so moisturising. It reduces inflammation and swelling, so is ideal for bringing puffy eyes down after a few too many early mornings and late nights.

You will need:

• One teaspoon of yoghurt
• One tablespoon of honey
• Lemon juice

1. Mix together the yoghurt and honey.

2. Add four or five drops into the mixture.

2. Spread onto your face and leave for 10-15 minutes.

3. Rinse well with tepid water.  I’d also advise using a facial wash to remove the honey as it’s very sticky!