THE GIFT OF FRANKINCENSE
THIS FRAGRANT FACE MASK IS YOUR CUE TO SLOW DOWN AND MAKE A TREAT FOR YOUR SKIN
Frankincense & cypress oil face mask
A wonderfully warming remedy, this mask magically heats when it comes into contact with the skin.
Makes approx 100g
10g (2 tsp) kaolin (or a little extra if the mix is too runny) 25g Epsom salts 60ml glycerine 10 drops frankincense essential oil 10 drops cypress essential oil Baking tray
1 Preheat your oven to its lowest temperature (100C/Fan 80C/Gas ¼ if you have it).
2 Place the kaolin and Epsom salts on a baking tray and put in the oven for 30 mins to sterilise the kaolin and desiccate the salts. (The warmth of the mask is generated when the Epsom salts regain moisture from the dampness of the skin, so don’t skip this step.)
3 Remove from the oven and allow to cool. Place the dry ingredients in a clean, dry bowl or glass jug. Add the glycerine and essential oils and mix thoroughly.
4 Ensure the skin is damp before applying the mask to the face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Massage into the skin and leave on for 5–10 mins, then rinse the face with warm water or hot cloths to remove all traces of the mask.
Safe storage Ideally, the mask should be used immediately. Alternatively, it can be stored in an airtight jar in the fridge for 2 days, though the warming effect may diminish as the mask absorbs moisture from the air. Try reheating the mask gently in a low oven for about 20 mins to revive its warming properties.