That autumn snap in the air often signals new energy to shift gears, explore new interests, start school, or at least change our wardrobe. And with any new activity comes the desire to put our best faces forward.

These lovely facial recipes are perfect for the first day of school, or any day at all. Whether you want to exfoliate dead skin cells, nourish dry or mature skin, or clear up troubled or oily skin, these simple formulas will help your face to look radiant, smooth, and glowing.

INGREDIENTS

3 tablespoons of your herb of choice (see below)
2/3 cup boiling water
1 tablespoon ground oatmeal

1. Steep your chosen herb in boiling water, covered, for 15 minutes, then strain, reserving the liquid. Cool to room temperature.

2. Add enough infusion to the oatmeal to make a smooth paste, saving the remaining infusion.

3. Wash and dry your face, then smooth the paste over it and allow it to remain for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water and pat dry.

4. Apply the remaining infusion as a lotion and allow to dry.

Herb Choices

ANY SKIN TYPE: Lavender, basil, mint

BLEMISHED SKIN: Thyme, calendula, rosemary

DRY OR MATURE SKIN: Parsley, lemon balm, fennel seed

OILY SKIN: Sage, yarrow, lady’s mantle

SENSITIVE SKIN: German chamomile