3 DIY Masks To Try Before The Big Day

There is no need to skimp on quality for sake of your wedding budget, especially when your local grocery store has everything you need to get glowing in time for the big day.
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When it comes to looking great on your wedding day, your complexion should be top of the list. Many brides-to-be will splurge on expensive spa treatments in anticipation for the big day, while others may rely on bargain brands and hope for the best. However, there is no need to skimp on quality for sake of your wedding budget, especially when your local grocery store has everything you need to get glowing in time for the big day.

Here are three DIY pre-wedding facials to try before walking down the aisle:

1. Tropical Fruit Enzyme Mask. This mask will chemically exfoliate and brighten dull skin, without the irritation of a mechanically exfoliating scrub. Natural fruit enzymes found in papaya and pineapple actually dissolve dead and dull skin cells, instantly revealing a brightened, glowing complexion, while pure Aloe Vera soothes and nourishes skin. Plus, this mask is packed with Vitamins C and A which will improve your skin's luminosity and youth.

To make the Tropical Fruit Enzyme Mask, simply scoop the pulp from half of a nearly ripe papaya, add equal parts pineapple and blend. Once pureed, stir in 2 teaspoons of pure Aloe Vera until mixed. Carefully spread the mask over your face and leave on for two to eight minutes. It is normal to feel slight tingling from the enzymes at work. However, it is always smart to spot test in advance to be certain how skin will react. Rinse with cold water, and try not to spend all day in the mirror admiring your smooth, glowing complexion.

2. Sweet Strawberries and Cream Mask. Treat, tighten, and brighten with this strawberry, yogurt, and honey mask. Strawberries are super rich in Vitamin C, which helps stimulate collagen production and lighten pigmentation. Additionally, they are a natural source of Salicylic Acid, which means they are great at removing excess oil and clearing blemishes. The yogurt in the mask will help cool and hydrate, while small amounts of lactic acid will also aid exfoliation. Finally, honey, a natural humectant, will help heal any existing blemishes or marks, and will also hydrate skin.

To make the Sweet Strawberries and Cream Mask, de-stem a handful (4 or 5) of strawberries and mash with a fork. Stir in 2 teaspoons of plain Greek yogurt and 1 teaspoon of raw dark honey. Once a paste is formed, spread the mask on your face and relax. For an added perk, cut two strawberries slices and place them over your eyes to de-puff under eye bags and lighten dark circles. After 20 minutes, gently remove the mask using cool water.

3. Detoxifying Pumpkin Cranberry Mask. This mask incorporates canned pumpkin and pure cranberry juice to soothe, hydrate, and detoxify skin. Pumpkins are rich in active enzymes and Alpha-hydroxy acids that dissolve dry and dulling skin. Additionally, pumpkin is a great source of Zinc, Vitamins C and A, and beta carotene -- all essential for smooth, glowing skin. Furthermore, cranberry, rich in antioxidants, helps reverse environmental damage and deep clean skin.

To make the Detoxifying Pumpkin Cranberry Mask, use half a cup of canned or cooked pumpkin and puree. Stir in a teaspoon of all natural cranberry juice until you reach desired consistency. After spot testing the mask's effects on your skin, apply a thin layer to your face. Rinse off after two to eight minutes and be amazed at the instant difference in your skin tone.

These all-natural ingredients will give you similar results as you would get in a luxury spa, no chemicals needed. Try using each mask once a week in preparation for the wedding; you will be amazed at the difference in your skin. In fact, you may love your new complexion so much you'll want to marry it.

Sarah Dakar is beauty director with Sonya Dakar Skincare in Beverly Hills.

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