*guestblog by Michelle Pino of Skana Spa

While it is important to protect your skin year-round, there is no better time to put a consistent regiment into action than before the outdoor activities of the summer kick into full gear.  July 4th celebrations certainly set the tone for the events and activities that will be integral for the remainder of the summer.  Get yours off on the right foot by starting a facial-skin protection treatment that will reveal a glow in your skin’s tone that rivals that of the celebratory fireworks.

(photo source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/24204960@N03/5904074026/)

The warmth of family and friends at this year’s July 4th BBQ will bring joy and fun to all those involved.  However, the warmth of the sun along with its UV rays can potentially do a great deal of damage to your skin.  In order to prepare for the time that it will be exposed, explore the following all-natural recipe for a rejuvenating facial mask.  In addition to giving you the protection you need, it will invigorate, replenish, and hydrate where your body needs it the most.

There is no better time of year to try out a new facial mask that uses red, white, and blue ingredients.  Below is the festive facial mask inspired by Skana spa of Upstate NY resort, Turning Stone:

Begin creating your facial mask…

• Collect 10 blueberries
• ¼ of a fresh tomato
• 1 teaspoon of apricot kernel oil (or baby oil)
• 2 drops of sweet orange essential oil. (or any essential oil)

(photo source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/47761381@N03/6419364999/)

The fresh, fruit ingredients bring skin back to life in several ways.  The naturally occurring antioxidant properties tone skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines.  These particular fruits are also high in vitamin C, acting as an anti-inflammatory for slightly damaged skin.  These super fruits will boost your skin’s collagen production and neutralize free radicals as they provide deep protection for your skin cells.
Directions:

Blend all the fruit with a blender for close to ten seconds.  Place the mixture in a small bowl where you will add the oils.  Mix well.  Before you apply the mask, open the pores of the skin through the use of steam and warm water.  Once the pours have been opened, apply the mask and allow it to soak into the skin for at least 20 minutes.  After you are relaxed and the mixture has had to time take effect, gently remove the product with cool water and apply a natural moisturizer such as coca butter.  In order to achieve a healthy glow all throughout the year, you can apply the mask once a week.

Tip: always test new products on a small portion of skin to test first.