I’ve nearly run out of Lily Organics Rejuvenating Enzyme Exfoliant Mask again, as you can see from the picture at left. This mask has been a staple since I first discovered it as a PR sample at the magazine where I work. I usually get annoyed at products that look like I can make them myself, so the fact that this is made from honey and basically looks and smells exactly like honey put me off at first. But Lily Organics raises many of its own ingredients on its Colorado organic farm, so I know what it’s making is way higher quality than what I could blend up at home (especially since everything is made in the company’s own factory, instead of my less-than-hygienic kitchen). The bonus is that, like something you’d mix at home, there isn’t a bunch of junk added—this product contains just 10 totally recognizable natural ingredients. Truly. I mean it. Check the label!
Honey has been used in cosmetics since Egyptian times. It isn’t hydrating in itself, but it creates a film that prevents moisture loss, allowing the skin to rehydrate, and has a humectant quality that draws moisture into the skin. And this mask has two other crucial ingredients, papaya and pineapple. They do the work of an enzyme treatment you might get in an expensive facial but this product is pretty reasonably priced at $29 for a jar. Honey goes on very light and thin (and sweet and a bit sticky!), so one jar lasts quite along time. This mask safe for daily use but I prefer to use it weekly: It does prickle a bit when I apply it and cause some redness, so I don’t want to overdo it. I leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes to get the maximum results, though.
What are those results? The stimulation my skin experiences, of course, is thought to help speed up the growth of new skin cells, which is why this mask is labeled “regenerating.” And enzymes are known for gentle sloughing of the skin—they basically dissolve dulling dead skin cells instead of scrubbing them away. This makes for an even glow. I highly recommend weekly enzyme treatments, especially for people with combination skin, since your skin gets a renewed, refreshed, refined look from this kind of mask. (I do my own extractions at home, too, and the enzymes help prep the skin for that, as well). I find it especially essential in cold weather and dry climates, so I even bring it with me when I travel to those places.
