Cacao (in Hot Chocolate) is a favorite drink for many people that helps us survive the cold winter months. But not many people know that cocoa powder is also beneficial to the skin and can be used to prepare a nutrient-rich facial mask.

“Chocolate” face masks do an excellent job of hydrating, rejuvenating, lifting and toning your skin. Cacao beans, of which cocoa powder is made, have several useful properties that can improve your skin health.

Why is Cacao Good for your Skin?

1. High Antioxidant Content

   Cocoa powder has higher levels of antioxidant content than green tea, black tea or red wine, according to a study conducted by the Department of Food Science and Technology. Benefits of high antioxidant chocolate facials include cell repair and cell damage prevention, meaning that the antioxidants will neutralize free radicals and prevent them from damaging your skin cells. This may help reverse environmental damage as well as protect your skin from the natural signs of aging.

2. High Mineral Content

   Chocolate contains copper, iron, manganese, magnesium and zinc, which all help in promoting cell growth and repairing tissues. This is a great combination of nutrients that your skin will happily absorb and use to repair itself, which in turn will give you a soft, smooth and healthy complexion.

Simple 3 ingredient Cacao Mask Recipe

• 1/2 tbsp cocoa powder

• 1 tbsp of warm water

• 1 pump of Isabella’s Clearly SOFT (or substitute with Almond, Grapeseed or Avocado oil)

Blend the ingredients well until the mixture becomes smooth. Apply it to your clean dry face avoiding the eye area.

The application will be easier if you will use a makeup or mask brush.

Leave the mask on your face for approximately 15 minutes, then rinse well with warm water.