Alexis Wolfer is a well-known beauty and lifestyle expert and the founder of The Beauty Bean, an online magazine that promotes Real Beauty. She is also the creator of the international and viral Makeup Free Mondays movement and can be found tweeting about all things real and realistic beauty at @AlexisWolfer.

Next time you’re planning a day full of activities with your nieces, try a spa day! Rather than heading to a salon, though, DIY it with some fun facial recipes fit for aunties and nieces alike. Using fresh ingredients (likely ones you already have in your kitchen), DIY facials are not only easy to whip up at any time, but also gentle enough for even the most sensitive (and youthful) of complexions. Plus, you don’t need to worry about any harsh chemicals or any residue getting into inquisitive mouths – instead you can enjoy a day spent having some pampering fun with the young ladies in your life.

Three Facial Masks You Can Make With Your Nieces

Banana & Oatmeal Mask. Instead of tossing those over-ripe bananas we somehow always end up with, make a banana-based facial mask. With bananas and oats, this mask is designed to work on inflamed, acne-prone skin (ideal if your nieces are teenagers dealing with the occasional – or frequent – breakout), but is gentle enough for skin years away from worrying about a pimple. Just mix two teaspoons of mashed banana with one teaspoon oatmeal flakes and let it sit on clean skin for 10-15 minutes. The banana, rich in vitamins B2, B6 and B12, helps to both reduce skin inflammation and soften skin while the oats work to balance and calm irritated complexions.

Sweet Potato & Yogurt Facial Mask. Mix three tablespoons of pureed sweet potato (canned sweet potato works too!) with one tablespoon of plain, full-fat yogurt. If you’re looking for a facial that really brings the results, the vitamin-rich sweet potato will help to gently exfoliate and tighten pores, while the yogurt will help to exfoliate and moisturize. The result: soft, smooth skin free of clogged pores and fine lines. Not yet old enough to worry about either? No worries! This DIY facial mask won’t irritate even the most sensitive of skin. As an added treat, mix a second, larger batch and top with honey and granola for a snack!

Watermelon & Honey Facial. If your niece has a sweet tooth, this one’s for her! Mix one teaspoon watermelon juice, which is jam-packed with enough vitamins to treat almost everything from sun damage to blemishes and everything in between, with one teaspoon raw, organic honey, which is a natural moisturizer. Leave the sweet and sticky mixture on your face for 15-20 minutes before rinsing with warm water. And when the juice runs onto your lips, you can lick it off – it’s yummy too!

Happen to have leftover champagne? Here are three DIY beauty recipes using champagne that you can do with your nieces too – and, no, they don’t need to be over 21 to enjoy!

Photo: ahmet guler
Published: May 21, 2012