Nancy Lewis
We’re looking to beauty as a form of self-care in lockdown, says Lady Gutierrez, skin expert and founder of Thielo. Lady has spent the last 24 years perfecting skin care recipes and has launched her own line of skin care solutions.
“I’ve always found the process of crafting something by hand like a meditative practice,” says Ms Gutierrez.
“It’s a great way to channel energies. With so many of us spending hours a day in front of a screen or glued to our smartphones, there is something quite magical in making something with your hands to encourage a deeper sense of connection.”
The lip balm
Ingredients
- 1 tsp beeswax
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 tsp avocado oil
- 1 vitamin E capsule broken open (optional)
Instructions
“Melt the beeswax in a bain-marie over a gentle heat, then stir in the coconut and avocado oils,” writes Lady in her advice for Skin & Hair Care Recipes From Nature.
“Remove from the heat and leave to cool for 5–10 minutes or so (but don’t allow the mixture to start to solidify) before stirring in the vitamin E, if using.
Transfer to 2 jars or tins or other small airtight containers and leave to cool in a clean, dry area for at least 2 hours before sealing with the lids or using. It is best stored in a cool, dry place. It will keep for up to 6 months in the airtight container.”
“For a plant-based alternative to a chemical peel, try grounding up some green tea and mix it with 2 teaspoons of organic runny honey until a smooth paste forms,” says Gutierrez. “If your skin is oily, mix in some natural yoghurt which has a high zinc content and may help regulate sebum production.”
The natural chemical peel
Ingredients
- Granulated sugar or sea salt
- Coffee grounds
- Cold-pressed rosehip oil
Instructions
“For a plant-based alternative to a chemical peel, try grounding up some green tea and mix it with 2 teaspoons of organic runny honey until a smooth paste forms,” says Lady.
“If your skin is oily, mix in some natural yoghurt which has a high zinc content and may help regulate sebum production.”
The body scrub
Ingredients
- Granulated sugar or sea salt
- Coffee grounds
- Cold-pressed rosehip oil
Instructions
“You need two parts sugar, salt or coffee grounds to one part cold-pressed oil of your choice,” says Lady. Try coconut or rosehip oil.
“Then, you can add any blend of essential oils that you like (up to a dilution of 1% but always check guidance depending on which essential oils you’re using). My personal favourite is a coffee base, with peppermint and sweet orange essential oils.”
The face mask
Ingredients
- One egg white
Instructions
Lady rates yoghurt masks but says that she regularly uses just a single egg white.
“I look at this as a protein mask,” says Lady.
Taking cue from K-beauty, Lady mentions the consistency is very similar to popular ‘ snail slime masks’, just a little cheaper. Of course, take care not to accidentally eat any, and rinse off thoroughly after 5–10 minutes.
The cleanser
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp almond oil
- 2 tsp ground almonds
- 2 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp water
Instructions
“Mix all the ingredients together in a small bowl to form a paste,” writes Lady in her posts.
“To use, place a warm, damp face cloth on your face for 20–30 seconds to open up your pores, then pat dry with a towel.”
“Gently massage the paste into your face with your fingertips, avoiding the eye area. Rinse clean with warm water.
Use the first application immediately after making, then store the remainder in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use within 3 days.”
