The Joy of Giving No. 3: DIY Turmeric Body Mask

Well, I have to admit I postponed this blog post to see what happens on this special Friday....so far, I'm still alive and kicking and the weather gods have just surprised me with light snowfall - what else can you wish for Christmas?

Since Christmas Eve is still "on", there's enough time for organizing or making last minute gifts. Today's DIY recipe is a wonderful, easy peasy Turmeric Body Mask. Why turmeric? This yellow spice does not only do wonders to your health but really improves your skin: it helps reduce pigmentation and the appearance of acne, increases elasticity and just makes your skin glow!

This body mask is an excellent treat for the skin once per week and is used just like any body scrub: leave on skin for about 10 minutes and make sure to rinse off the paste with warm water thoroughly. The skin can appear yellowish after treatment, so make sure to use old towels around the bathroom.

Christmas Llama Illustration by Cathryn Weatherhead

Here's what you need:

- 1 glass jar holding at least 100ml turmeric paste
- 50g turmeric powder (stain warning: prepare some old kitchen towels for blending as this powder leaves yellow traces everywhere)
- 50-100ml of your favorite base oil such as coconut or rosehip oil
- 5 drops of Ylang Ylang essential oil (optional)

DIY Turmeric Body Mask Recipe:

1. Fill the glass jar with turmeric powder
2. Add half (50ml) of your favorite base oil and stir - depending on the oil you use (thin or thick oil), add

some more until it has a paste-like consistency
3. Optional: add 5 drops of Ylang-Ylang essential oil
4. Stir, close and decorate

Enjoy blending and giving!