Farmers' Market Facials

To revive dry, dull hair, all you need is one big apple (you can also use two or three medium-sized apples, depending on your hair length). This mask solves dry-scalp problems such as itchiness and flakes. For best results, choose only fresh apples without any dents or flaws.

INGREDIENTS

1-2 large or 3-4 medium apples
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon corn flour

METHOD

Peel, core, and grate the apples. Combine the grated apple with remaining ingredients and stir well.

APPLICATION

Spread the mixture over dry, unwashed hair and leave on for 20-30 minutes. You can cover your hair with a shower cap or a PVC-free food film and then wrap it with a towel. Rinse the mask off with tepid water and follow with a mild shampoo if desired.

STORAGE

This mask cannot be stored and must be used on the day of preparation.

Source: Vegan Beauty Recipes: Plant-Based, Animal-Free Natural Skincare, Hair Care, and Body Care Products Prepared by You at Home (Petite Marie Books, 2010).

This great mask works like a scrub to exfoliate without being abrasive to your skin. Butternut squash is high in vitamins A and C and zinc, and can brighten, heal, and protect your skin from free radicals, all while gently dissolving dead skin cells.

INGREDIENTS

1 egg
1 cup cooked butternut squash

Optional Ingredients

Papaya
Honey
Apple cider or cranberry juice (whichever you have handy)

METHOD

Adding an egg to the mask helps bind the ingredients together, as well as nourishing and lifting the skin. Whisk together about 1/2 cup of the squash and the egg (feel free to use pumpkin, either fresh or canned, for this recipe!). How to customize your mask: For more exfoliation: Add 2/3 cup fresh mashed papaya. The additional enzymes will dissolve dead skin on the spot, leaving you fresh and glowing. For dry skin: Add a tablespoon of honey, which acts as a humectant, drawing moisture into the skin. For oily skin: Mix in a tablespoon of apple cider or cranberry juice for a toning astringent effect.

APPLICATION

Slather the mixture on your face in a fairly thick layer. Avoid the eye area. You'll feel some light tingling as the enzymes gently exfoliate the top layer of skin. Leave the mask on for 10-20 minutes and rinse off with warm water and a washcloth.

STORAGE

This mask cannot be stored and should be used on the day of preparation.

Source: Eric Sakas, celebrity makeup artist and founder of Vapour Cosmetics.

Here's a toner that will not only tighten your pores with the help of mint, which is a natural cleanser with antibacterial properties, but will also be a luscious treat for your nose, with the infusion of raspberries. The berries also add the beneficial antioxidants A and C into the mix. Good for all skin types.

INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup chopped mint leaves (or two organic mint tea bags)
1/4 cup whole raspberries (any variety, rinsed)
3 cups water

METHOD

Combine water and mint/tea in a small saucepan. Once the liquid comes to a boil, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and add the raspberries. Let the mixture simmer for about another four minutes — just until you will smell the strong aroma of raspberries releasing (you don't want to overcook the berries and have them lose their shape). Remove from heat and allow to cool. Strain the liquid into a container.

APPLICATION

Use a cotton pad or ball to tone your face liberally after washing, using upward strokes.

STORAGE

Will keep for two weeks, refrigerated.

*Important note: Even simple food-based recipes can irritate sensitive skin types, so try a coin-sized patch test on the intended area first.

Source: Nuy Cho, creator of the blog NuyBeauty.com.