Since we have all the time on our hands, we’re making full use of it! Self-care is on top of the list and we turned to Maria Ali of MariasInstaGlam to give us a few tips to keep the skin fresh during this time.

While we’re all stuck indoors, or shall I say “safe indoors” and wondering how Carole got away with feeding her husband to the tigers, let’s talk a little about taking care of our skin.
Being indoors and in the AC all the time isn’t doing your skin any favors. Is there a better time to give a few easy DIY face masks with products you probably have in your pantry – or even better, try some new products to see what works best for your skin! The one thing I’ve noticed over time is that if you have honey lying around at home, you’re good to go as far as DIY face masks are concerned.

HONEY MASKS
One of the most problematic skin issue that is popping up, literally, is that acne prone skin is starting to react. You can rely on a super simple DIY antioxidant rich face mask which also has antibacterial properties. All you need is 1 tablespoon of honey and 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric. Mix it into a paste and apply it on your skin for 20 mins to soothe that inflammation.
Another easy-to-find product at home would be bananas which have amazing exfoliating properties that help clear the skin off oil and dirt that can cause black heads and acne. Mash up a ripe banana and mix in some honey to create a thick paste. Apply it on your face and wash off with cold water after 15-20 mins.

GLOW-TASTIC
No matter what kind of skin you have, everyone wants to get their glow on! This little DIY face mask will give you that amazing lit-from-within look. Just get yourself 1/2 tablespoon of lemon, 1/2 teaspoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon manuka honey, and 1 teaspoon of fine salt. Mix and apply it on your face while massaging in circular motions. Leave it on for 10 mins and remove with a warm wet towel before washing your face – voila!

HYDRATE TO REFRESH
You would think that staying indoors means cleaner air, less contact with pollution and therefore better skin. Unfortunately, that’s not how it works! Staying indoors can dehydrate your skin and make it look dull and tired. This simple face mask comes highly recommended by our favorite Instagram blog Dinzsister where Rima Zahran shares some fantastic tips. This mask is quick to make, works to soothe dryness and eczema, and is even safe to use on your kids! All you need is 2 tablespoons of oats and brewed chamomile tea (you can use a chamomile tea bag). Grind the oats so they have a powdery consistency and mix in the chamomile tea a little bit at a time (make sure you let it cool down before mixing it in). Your mixture should have a thick porridge like consistency. Leave it to dry on your face for 20 mins and remove using a moist towel.

OIL-FREE SKINCARE
This easy face mask will help lift those impurities, clean those pores and control that oil! Blend together 2 egg whites, 1/2 cucumber and some mint leaves. Apply the mixture to your face and wash off after 10 mins with cold water.

*BONUS TIP*
If the makeup guru Huda Kattan swear by it, we are going to follow it blindly. Bananas have a ton of anti-inflammatory properties and the peal can help remove toxins and clear bacterial infections that cause acne. This easy anti-scarring and anti-acne mask requires you to cut the peal into squares big enough to cover your acne or scar with a scissor. Rub the inside of the peel in circular motions over your pimple / scar and leave it there for 10 mins. Remove and wash your face with cold water.

OVER THE COUNTER FACE MASKS
If you’re not big on DIY’s and just want a ready-made miracle, try one of these brilliant face masks to get your skin on-point for when you can be wild and free again.
My all-time favorite mask to combat dehydration and dryness is the Glam Glow Me (@glamglowme) ThirstyMud mask. You literally cannot go wrong with this one. I leave it on for hours while I do chores around the house and come out looking like a glow-queen.
Another favorite to get that glow back and get that baby soft skin is the Charlotte Tilbury Skin Clay mask Unlike most other clay masks, this one doesn’t dry your skin out at all making it perfect for dry skin. ✤

FOLLOW @MARIASINSTAGLAM ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE TIPS.