Gorgeously Green Alpha-Hydroxy Acid Mask

Want that fresh-faced glow without toxins like parabens and other potentially harmful ingredients? Try this easy DIY formula from Gorgeously Green: 8 Simple Steps to an Earth-Friendly Life by Sophie Uliano.

Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) are derived from fruit sugars, such as glycolic acid, which comes from sugar cane. The glycolic acid sloughs off the upper layers of the skin, making way for beautiful new cell growth.

You can buy commercial creams containing AHA, but be wary of the dangerous chemicals that may also be packed into the potion. Commercial brands may be way too strong and may cause your skin to become very sun sensitive, so tread lightly when going down this road, or stay on the safe side and make your own.

INGREDIENTS
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup apple juice
1/4 cup grape juice
1/4 cup cane sugar

Blend all of the ingredients in a glass jar. Apply to your face with an organic cotton ball. Leave on for 10 minutes and rinse off. The mixture will keep for up to four days in the refrigerator.

Read more: Beauty, Skin Care, AHA, alpha-hydroxy, apple juice, cane sugar, face mask

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
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Danuta W.

1:01AM PST on Feb 11, 2012

Thanks for the article.

send a green star

Rebecca T.

11:02PM PDT on May 6, 2011

Not only is making such recipes better for your body, it is even better for the environment. No (primarily) plastic waste to add to our already overflowing land and ocean fills.

6:36AM PST on Mar 4, 2011

forgive me ... I have so little time, so I am just here for points for the animals ...

Gwendolyn K.

5:20PM PST on Jan 2, 2011

Thanks.

Valerie C.

6:53AM PST on Dec 9, 2008

For those who don't want the added step of mixing it up on their own, Miessence Probiotic Skin Brightener is a USDA food grade certified organic AHA. (www.betterchoices.mionegroup.com)

It is also great for people with Keratosis Pilaris (KP) a condition which leaves upper arms, and sometimes face and legs with bumps like chicken skin. For more information on KP check out (http://www.helpforkp.com) I have been using Miessence skin brigtener on my daughter's arms and have seen significant changes in her KP skin. I use it myself for sun spots on my face. It is an inexpensive way to look like you have been for an expensive spa treatment.

I highly recommend trying an AHA. I will definately give the receipe a try as well. Although, I don't like the idea of putting something cold on my face this winter.