The coffee face mask is a classic for injecting life into a dull, tired complexion. While the mask will remind you of your morning cup of joe (wake-me-up included!), it’s actually an ideal mask for all skin types – with a few add-ins depending on your skin concerns. About 10 years ago, beauty companies started to use caffeine as an ingredient in face products because of its incredible tightening effects. So, while this mask is meant to brighten your complexion, it will also tighten it, revealing a more youthful you!

There are many variations to the coffee face mask, but this is the one that I like best – it’s simple, fast and effective. I will give substitution options for varying skin types below.

What You’ll Need:
1/2 Cup ground organic coffee beans (you can grind your own or buy pre-ground)
1/2 Cup organic, unsweetened cocoa powder
1 Cup of unsweetened whole milk (if you aren’t a dairy person, sub for unsweetened almond milk)
1 Tbsp of lemon juice (for dry skin, try olive or almond oil)
1 Tbsp of honey (for extra oily or acne prone skin, use additional lemon juice here instead of honey)
Bowl

Benefits of the Ingredients:
Coffee Beans – Reduces inflammation and redness, and the appearance of under eye circles. As an exfoliator, removes dead skin and “wakes up” a tired complexion.
Cocoa Powder – A good source of antioxidants; repairs damage due to environmental pollutants and free radicals. Contains high levels of sulfur (great for fighting acne).
Milk – It is said that Cleopatra bathed in milk to give her skin a healthy glow. Lactic acid exfoliants while natural enzymes help to smooth skin. Amino acids keep skin hydrated.
Lemon Juice – Acts as an exfoliant. Contains natural vitamin C to ligten, tighten and brighten. Great for regulating oil production.
Honey – A natural humectant that locks in moisture.

Directions:
In your bowl, mix the finely ground coffee beans with the cocoa powder. Add in the milk, stir until it creates a paste. For a thicker paste, use less milk. Fold in lemon juice and honey. Apply to skin and let dry (up to 20 minutes). Wash off and store any extras in the fridge for up to 3 days.

*For extra exfoliation, apply in circular motions for a quick scrub (1-2 minutes), then allow to dry.*
*For dark circles, mix the finely ground coffee beans with enough milk or olive oil to form a paste and apply to the under eye area once a day. Allow to dry and rinse off. The caffeine will promote healthy circulation and decrease inflammation that results in dark circles and under eye bags.*