Today my daughter and I made the most delicious chickpea curry this weekend, and it left us with some leftover aquafaba. If you’ve not met aquafaba before, it’s simply the water that chickpeas come in. For vegans, it’s a bit of magic in a tin, as it can be whipped into meringues just like egg whites. Honestly, Mother Nature is kickass sometimes.
Instead of using it for pudding, I decided to give our skin a treat and create a nourishing, calming DIY face mask that’s the perfect pick-me-up as the temperatures drop and autumn air starts to dry things out.
This face mask is super easy to make. You’ll only need five ingredients, two of which are optional, a large bowl and an electric whisk.
The star of the show is aquafaba (Chickpea water), which helps absorb excess oils and impurities while gently tightening pores. Xanthan gum might sound scientific, but it’s actually hydrating and gives the mask its creamy texture. Turmeric powder brings antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties to the mix, detoxing your skin and leaving it with a healthy glow (not a Bart Simpson glow, before you ask).
The two optional essential oils add a touch of spa-like luxury. Lavender oil helps relax the skin and senses, while my all-time favourite, Geranium Rose oil, helps prevent premature ageing and keeps the skin hydrated and radiant.
This recipe suits all skin types and ages and makes enough for around five faces.
Ingredients:
1 can Chickpea water (aquafaba)
1 teaspoon Xanthan gum
1 teaspoon Turmeric powder
2 drops Lavender oil
3 drops Geranium Rose oil
How to make it:
Place all the ingredients into a large bowl and whisk with an electric whisk until the texture resembles mayonnaise.
Apply to clean, dry skin by gently tapping the mask onto your face. Leave for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water. Cleanse and moisturise as usual. I love doing this while I’m in the bath, but if you’re not, wear old or dark clothing as turmeric can stain fabrics.
Store your fresh homemade face mask in a clean jam jar and keep it in the fridge. It will last for up to two weeks.
