Winter Overnight Face Treatment

Skill Level: Intermediate

What conditions it helps with: Winter facial dryness, fine lines caused by dehydration, dull winter complexion, flaky facial skin, sensitivity from winter weather, premature aging from environmental stress, rough texture

Why this is a great DIY recipe: Your face loses up to 25% more moisture at night during winter due to bedroom heating systems that create desert-like humidity levels. This overnight treatment works while you sleep, when cellular regeneration peaks and your skin is most receptive to active ingredients. The recipe combines fast-absorbing oils with protective butters for both immediate and lasting benefits. Luxury night treatments cost $60-150 for similar formulations; this makes approximately 100ml for $6-8. The five-ingredient combination provides comprehensive anti-aging, repair, and protection—addressing multiple winter skin concerns simultaneously.

Ingredients:

• Raw shea butter: 30ml (2 tablespoons)
• Baobab oil: 30ml (2 tablespoons)
• Shea oil: 15ml (1 tablespoon)
• Red palm oil: 5ml (1 teaspoon)
• Vitamin E oil: 2.5ml (1/2 teaspoon)

Instructions:

1. Gently warm shea butter in double boiler just until softened but not fully melted (should be consistency of thick yogurt)
2. Remove from heat and transfer to mixing bowl
3. Add baobab oil and shea oil, whipping with fork or small whisk for 3-4 minutes until light and creamy
4. Drizzle in red palm oil and vitamin E oil while continuing to whip for another 2 minutes
5. Transfer to small jar or airless pump container (airless pumps prevent oxidation and extend shelf life)
6. Place in refrigerator for 30 minutes to set, then store at cool room temperature
7. Apply pea-sized amount to clean face before bed, focusing on areas of concern

Customization Ideas:

• Add 3-4 drops frankincense essential oil for enhanced anti-aging and skin regeneration
• Include 1/4 teaspoon rosehip seed oil for additional vitamin A and scar healing properties
• Create a lighter summer version by reducing shea butter to 15ml and increasing shea oil to 30ml
• Add 1/4 teaspoon neem oil for acne-prone skin or winter breakouts from heavy scarves

Application Technique: Apply to slightly damp skin for maximum absorption. Use gentle upward motions, avoiding tugging on delicate eye area. Allow 5 minutes to absorb before lying down on pillow.

Storage: Keeps for 4-6 months in cool location away from direct sunlight. The vitamin E and red palm oil carotenoids provide natural preservation. Consider refrigerating during summer months.