Strawberry and Yoghurt Mask

Let me first warn you that this mask is incredibly sticky, messy and NOT for sensitive skin. On the bright side, it smells sweet, is a lovely pastel pink and according to Chelsea, tastes yummy.

I found out that Chelsea has incredibly sensitive skin. She complained that the mask stung which is understandable considering it's an astringent. So, I made what was supposed to be a soothing cleanser containing fine oatmeal, honey and milk with some aloe vera gel. Yet, she still complained that it hurt. I shot her an incredulous look. "Really?", I asked. So, I cleansed her face with a little bit of honey water and dabbed just a tiny bit of jojoba oil on her face as moisturiser which she admitted felt better.

The key to cleansing ultra sensitive skin is to keep things simple and it's probably wise to dilute everything with distilled or spring water. Acidic ingredients like citrus fruits are best kept at bay. Another very important thing you have to remember if your skin falls into this category is to always, always do a patch test on the inside of your elbow.

Rub a little of the product you are testing on the inside of your elbow and cover with a band aid. Remove after 24 hours. However if it any time at all your skin starts itching unbearably (sometimes a mild tingling action is normal), remove the band aid immediately and wash with lots of cool water. To be safe, assume you are allergic to it. After 24 hours, if you experience any redness, wash the area and discontinue use immediately. If the reaction is strong or severe, meaning the skin is raised and thickened with large blisters and intense redness, I would advise you to see a doctor about the allergy. It might be worthwhile.

I'm scaring you, aren't I? Don't be, patch tests are the only way to determine if your skin is allergic to something. Then, all you have to do is avoid it!

• 1 very ripe strawberry
• 1 teaspoon of yoghurt
• 1 teaspoon of honey
• 1 teaspoon of cornstarch
• oatmeal

Mash the strawberry until it's pulpy. Add the yoghurt and honey and stir to combine. Add the cornstarch and thicken the mask with the oatmeal. You may want to lay your head on a pillow covered with a towel after applying the mask. Wait 10-15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water.



Strawberries are wonderful for softening skin and contain AHAs. It's great for oily and acne prone skin. The mild enzymes and acids in yoghurt is another skin softening agent. But oats and honey again you cry? I'm sorry I can't seem to stay away from them :( They're my staple in natural skincare.