ICE QUEEN BEAUTY THERAPY

Who would have thought, the little icy jewel we use to cool our drinks can do such wonders for our skin?! From relieving sun burns and reducing puffy eyes to giving us an instant face lift, ice has played an important role in beauty rituals for centuries.

The queen of Russia, Ekaterina II, was well known for using ice on her face, neck and décolletage every morning to preserve her beauty and refresh her complexion.

You too, can incorporate the simple, icy beauty treatment into your morning routine to revitalize and restore natural dewiness to your skin.

The process is simple and the combinations are simply endless. Aloe vera and cucumbers will soothe sunburned skin.

The caffeine and antioxidants in green tea will work wonders on puffy, tired eyes. Lemon will brighten and revive complexions, while lavender and rose water will calm inflamed skin.

To prepare simply brew a cup of strong tea or herbs to create an infusion, puree fruits or veggies, add aloe, coconut water, oils and any additional nutritious ingredients, allow to cool and pour them into ice cube trays.

To use, gently and quickly wipe your face, neck and décolletage with the ice cube, using facial massage techniques on (p.xxx, ). Please note that when using ice cubes on the delicate skin on your face, you must be quite gentle, in order to protect the blood vessels and capillaries under the skin. Alternatively, wrap the ice cube in a light, soft cloth.

BEAUTY NOTE:

To get even more benefits from your ice cube treatment, add half a teaspoon of your preferred carrier oil to your infusion before freezing it. Then, wipe your face and neck with these ice cubes before your makeup goes on. The addition of oil will soften and nourish your skin, preparing it for a smooth and flawless make up application.

Find more unique DIY beauty practices and recipes in

Fresh & Pure: Organically Crafted Beauty Balms & Cleansers, part of the Pretty Zen collection that includes Nourish & Glow: Naturally Beautifying Foods & Elixirs. Order your copies today.