In general a lot of chocolate is consumed during the month of February.  While I’m not big on eating chocolate, I do love it for my skin.  Below are two recipes, both made with organic cocoa, a simply beautiful ingredient (high in antioxidants and aids in gentle exfoliation)  that is widely used in upscale skin products across the globe.  Carve out some time and indulge in a little luxury on a budget. 

Fruit Facial

This facial masque can be whipped up in less than five minutes.  It is loaded with beneficial nutrients and antioxidants for our skin.  It smells scrumptious and feels cool and very pampering on the skin.  

Ingredients (organic if possible):

Banana-about 4 thick slices

Strawberry-1 very ripe, washed and sliced

Cocoa Powder-1/2-1 teaspoon

Add banana and strawberry to a shallow dish.

Directions:

Use a fork to mash it up well.  Add the cocoa powder.  Mix everything together.

To Use:

Using a circulation motion, apply this mixture to face and neck with your fingers.  There may be little chunky bits, don't worry about those, just massage them into your skin, the strawberry seeds will help to gently exfoliate.  Leave on for about 5-10 minutes or until it dries.  Tissue off the bulk and rinse well with warm water, pat skin dry.

Although this recipe has minimal ingredients and is super easy to make, what it does for the skin is truly wonderful.  With this combination, I think you will be amazed at how soft, supple and beautiful your skin feels after using this facial masque.

Notes:

If you have extra left, discard it, share with someone or use it on other areas; hands, feet, legs, etc.

Mediterranean Coffee Body Polish

Ingredients:

1 ounce-roasted organic finely ground coffee beans

7 ounces-organic sugar

1 tsp-organic cocoa

1/4 tsp-organic cinnamon
   
1/4 tsp-organic orange powder

1/4 tsp-sweet orange essential oil
 
4 ounces-cold pressed cherry kernel oil (or substitute your favorite light cold pressed oil)

Mixing Instructions:

In a large bowl, mix together sugar and essential oils.  Add all other dry ingredients and fold together well.  This recipe makes approximately eight ounces and should be transferred to a very clean, dry jar with a tight fitting lid.
   
To Use:

Scoop the mixture from the jar and apply to wet skin in a circular motion to condition and exfoliate, rinse well. 

Notes:

Take care not to get any water into the polish, as it contains no preservatives.  Store it in a cool dark area, ideally outside of the bathroom and use within three months or less.

Pennie Mills of Vegan Aesthetics (formerly Ladies Blend) creates cruelty free vegan jewelry and housewares, she is an avid supporter of animal rights, animal welfare and donates continuously to animal charities.