The skin-tightening and oil-absorbing properties of eggs have made them a popular part of natural skin care for centuries. And while they may not quite be a 'facelift in a shell' as some have called them, in many ways, eggs really are all they're cracked up to be.
Egg White Facelift
It is important to keep in mind that, although an egg white mask has long been touted as a 'skin tightening' treatment, the tightening effects are only temporary. The tight feeling happens as the water from the beaten whites evaporates and the whites themselves essentially 'shrink up' while they sit on the skin's surface, taking some of the outer skin with them.
In fact, there are plenty of commercially available products that accomplish the same things, but why pay for all their marketing hype? Especially when organic eggs are used, it is hard to match the purity and simplicity - as well as the low cost - of this effective tonic.
Benefits of an Egg White Mask
Although the skin-tightening effect that occurs as the mask dries on the skin is temporary, it is not the only benefit of a periodic egg white facial.
Egg whites can naturally draw out excess oil, shrink visible pores, infuse the surface of the skin with naturally-occurring vitamins such as Vitamin A, lighten the skin, destroy acne-causing bacteria, and help slough off dead surface skin cells - all for less than fifty cents per treatment!
The key ingredient at work, at least from an acne-fighting standpoint, is an enzyme known as Lysozyme which is responsible for dissolving the cell walls of bacteria. Lysozyme occurs naturally in tears, saliva and mucus and is present in high amounts in albumen, or egg whites, giving them their anti-bacterial qualities.
How to Make a Facial Anti-Wrinkle Treatment
One of the nicest things about an egg white mask, is that it's a cinch to make and requires nothing more than is typically in the refrigerator or pantry. To make a basic egg white facial mask, follow these steps:
- Separate one egg, saving the yolk for another use
- Using a fork or whisk, beat the egg white until it is slightly frothy (while this is not necessary, it does make application easier)
- Apply to clean, dry skin using fingertips or a makeup brush
- Use the entire egg white, applying in several thin layers to reduce dripping
- Wait at least 15 minutes or as long as an hour (There is no risk in leaving on longer, but probably no benefit either)
- Gently rinse off egg white with tepid water, using a cloth if necessary
- Follow with regular moisturizer, if desired
The skincare mask is ready to be rinsed off when skin feels tight and the surface is dry to the touch. This mask will not peel off and should be rinsed thoroughly to prevent flaking under makeup. It should not be used by anyone who is allergic to eggs.
Skincare Tips for Using Eggs
Skincare experts say an egg white facial mask can be used several times a week on oily or acne prone skin. Drier skin can benefit from regular use of this mask, too, but may respond better if a tablespoon of honey is added to the egg white before application. The moisturizing properties of honey can help to counteract the drying effect of the egg white, while still preserving the tightening effect.
For oily skin, a teaspoon of lemon juice added to the egg white increases the acidity of the mixture and helps to dissolve oils and dirt that can clog pores and make them appear more visible.
While it won't take years on the appearance, regular use of an egg white mask is said to help keep the skin cleaner, tighter-feeling, fresher in appearance with a smoother surface and smaller pores. If it was any more effective at improving the look and feel of skin, a carton of eggs would likely cost a lot more than it does.
Alex Strauss - Journalist Alex Strauss has written extensively for radio, television, magazines and the web for more than 20 years. During her career in ...
