14 Days Of Zespri – Day 3

For day three of the Zespri kiwifruit challenge I have something a little different for you. It’s made with items you may already have in your fridge or pantry, but it’s not something for you to eat. It’s a brightening kiwifruit mask for your face.

In their raw state kiwifruit are rich in an enzyme called Actinidin. This enzyme helps break down proteins and thus makes kiwifruit a good addition to marinades when you are looking to add flavour and simultaneously tenderize cuts of meat. The Actinidin in raw kiwifruit will also help clean and exfoliate when applied to your skin.

My face mask only uses half a kiwifruit and makes more than enough for two or more applications. It’s best used as fresh as possible, so why not grab a friend and have a little DIY home spa session. While the mask is working it’s magic on your face you can eat the other kiwifruit half and let that Actinidin enzyme aid your digestive system at the same time. This mask left my skin feeling really soft and smooth but it did sting a bit, so if your skin doesn’t react well to fruit acids perhaps give this a skip.

Some not so flattering pics of me, face mask and all. Don’t mind the chunky look of the mask, it’s all part of the DIY home spa experience. 🙂 If you prefer your mask chunk free just puree the kiwifruit instead of mashing it.

Ingredients:

• half a kiwifruit peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 Tbsp plain yoghurt
• 1 tsp honey

Method:

• Mash the kiwifruit with the back of a fork. Stir in the yoghurt and honey.
• Cleanse your face, neck and décolletage, pat dry and then spread a thin layer of the mixture over this area.
• Leave for 10/15 minutes before wiping off with a damp cloth.

If you have very sensitive skin, please do a patch test before applying the mask to your face. Also remember to try and avoid direct sunlight after use and apply a decent sunscreen if you can’t avoid being out in the sun.