It’s summer!
You’ve probably bought a new swimsuit, a few skirts, and a pair of strappy sandals, but have you done enough to protect your skin? Antioxidants prevent and repair UV damage, and using them in your beauty routine is a wonderful way to prepare for sun exposure.
So, before catching some rays, try this antioxidant-rich face and body masque.
BERRY BODY SMOOTHIE
- 1/3 cup blueberries (wild blueberries, if possible, as they are higher in antioxidants)
- 1/3 cup blackberries (you may substitute raspberries, which are slightly lower in antioxidants)
- 1/3 cup cranberries (dried will work if fresh aren’t available)
- 1 tsp. fresh oregano leaves
- ½ tsp. cinnamon
- 4 tbsp. plain yogurt
- 3 tbsp. honey
Allow all ingredients to come to room temperature. In a food processor, combine berries, oregano, and cinnamon, and process on high until smooth. Stir in the yogurt and honey with a spoon, then transfer mixture to a shatterproof bowl.
In a warm shower, prepare your skin by exfoliating your entire body with a scrub/polish. Next, step back from the water (but stay in the shower/tub) and turn the temperature as high as possible to create steam. Massage the smoothie onto your entire body in circular motions and continue to reapply until all the mixture has been used. Let the smoothie sit on the skin for 5-10 minutes. Rinse clean with warm water.
After drying, apply a body lotion rich in vitamin A, and make sure to apply sunscreen before sun exposure. (Look for one that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.)
Note that this treatment is messy, so plan on cleaning the shower after use.
Don’t use this recipe if you are allergic to any of the ingredients.
With 17 years in the spa industry, Mindy Terry is the Founder and President of Creative Spa Concepts. Terry is also a licensed cosmetologist, aesthetician, yoga instructor, and certified infant massage instructor.
