With Valentine’s Day around the corner we all want our skin to be looking it’s very best. Even if you are not one to celebrate this day of romance then I often feel that, come the end of summer, my skin is crying out for a bit of TLC. South African sun during our summer months can take its toll!

Here’s how you can give yourself a lovely at-home facial in just 5 easy steps. Not only will it save you the splurge, but the time out will make you feel like a million bucks!

What you will need:

Gentle facial cleanser

Exfoliating scrub

Clean washcloth

Face mask of your choice (clay-based for oily skin, cream or gel mask for dry skin)

Moisturizer & Serum / Facial Oil

Instructions:

Clean

Remove all makeup and then wash your face, neck and ears with a good facial cleanser. I like to double cleanse to make sure all the dirt is properly removed.

Exfoliate

Using your fingers gently rub an exfoliating facial scrub in small circular motions all over your face. Make sure you focus on areas around your nose and forehead. If certain areas of your face are oilier than others, give that section an extra scrub. If your skin is problematic or sensitive I prefer to use a enzymatic exfoliator – you can read more detail on the difference between a granular and enzymatic exfoliater here. My choice is always enzymatic! Go the extra mile and do a lip scrub too – this will prepare the lips for absorbing extra hydration.

Steam

There are a few ways to steam your face (over the stove, basin or with a steamer), but the safest way is to do the washcloth trick. Fill your sink with warm water and soak a washcloth in it. Ring out the towel and then press it to your face. Repeat this 2 to 3 times. This will open the pores and should you want to do any extractions you can do it at this stage. Remember: always use tissues, do not break the skin with nails and only target blackheads and pimples that are ready to be extracted with ease.

Mask

If you have oily skin, use a clay mask. For dry skin, I suggest using a hydrating cream or gel mask. Depending on the mask, leave it on for the suggested amount of time and then rinse. I like double-masking – starting with a clay based mask to remove impurities and finishing off with a hydrating mask that I choose to keep on for a good while (this leaves good time for a movie!) – all skin types need a deep cleanse, followed by a hydration boost.

Hydrate

Last but not least, moisturize! Smooth a nice, thick moisturizer over your face and neck. If you have a serum, pop this on first and once it’s absorbed seal in with a moisturizer. If you have a facial oil then take the time to lightly massage this into the skin – a facial massage will leave your skin looking in tip-top condition.

Happy Valentine’s Day, ladies!