After a disastrous attempt at an avocado and oatmeal mask (which we’ll probably revisit in the near future), we decided to try out a honey and brown sugar mask. The recipe is super simple (and budget-friendly), and the results are pretty great, too.

A honey-sugar scrub is a great way to clear out your pores. The coarseness of the sugar exfoliates the skin and removes dead skin cells, while the honey’s antibacterial properties help to cleanse the skin. Honey is also said to help with acne and eczema.

The result was refreshing, with skin feeling rejuvenated and exfoliated, without being overworked.

Sweet Scrub Exfoliating Mask
1 tbsp. unprocessed honey
1 tbsp. organic brown sugar
A few drops of olive oil

Mix the ingredients into a paste.

After washing and steaming your face (which helps to open the pores), apply the mask to areas with enlarged pores, typically the nose, chin and forehead, using a gentle, circular motion.

Let the mask set for two to three minutes, then rinse with warm water, while continuing to massage the mask into your skin.

Be sure to rinse completely, and follow up with a good moisturizer.