This is how to make a wine-infused face mask without having to sacrifice an entire glass

Okay, I’ll admit it: I’m pretty basic when it comes to wine. I’m the kind of girl who uses phrases like “wine o’clock” and “rosé all day” on the regular. And yes, my “basicness” even extends to investing in those cringeworthy wine glasses with slogans that read, “Wine a little, laugh a lot.”

But before I make you throw up, know that my passion for wine isn’t limited to eye roll-inducing slogans. I love good DIY wine masks that I can incorporate into my daily routine. The thing about DIY masks made with red wine is that they’re filled with two anti-inflammatory and cell-rejuvenating ingredients: antioxidants and resveratrol. But wine has even more beauty benefits. According to cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Sejal Shah, wine can also treat your skin to essential probiotics.

Probiotics, which are live bacteria found in foods like yogurt, are also found in wine, given that it’s fermented. They are thought to have a positive effect on skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, and eczema, thanks to its friendly bacteria makeup.

Similarly, probiotics are also found in kefir, another skin-boosting ingredient that I like to add to my DIY wine mask. Although it may be a sour-tasting fermented beverage that’s similar to yogurt, Dr. Shah says it also contains lactic acid, an AHA or alpha-hydroxy acid, which helps to naturally exfoliate the skin. Probiotics aside, though, I also like to throw in some honey to my DIY mask so I can cash in on its antibacterial, moisturizing, and soothing properties.

To show you just how wine, kefir, and honey work together to benefit your skin, I’m walking you through my easy DIY face mask. You’ll definitely want to try it on your next #SelfCareSunday.

1Grab Your Ingredients

Considering this DIY mask has only three ingredients, it shouldn’t take too much time and energy for you to whip it up yourself.

2Make Your Mask

To make your mask, you’ll want to add two tablespoons of each ingredient to a small bowl. Then take your spoon and carefully mix all your ingredients together for a good minute or two. It’s okay if your mask is a little thin and watery, as some of the best ones don’t have a thick, goopy texture (shoutout Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial). Think of it more like a DIY mask-peel hybrid that costs way less than some store-bought products and salon treatments.

3Apply The Mask With Cotton Balls

Because this mask is on the thin side, you’ll definitely want to apply it to your skin with caution. To make sure enough product is applied onto your face, I recommend using cotton balls. Not only do they allow you to soak up enough of the mask, but they also let you easily apply it to your face without making a mess.

Although one layer of the mask is fine, I recommend applying two or three layers for the full effect. Just a fair warning: This mask may not smell too pleasant, especially since it involves fermented milk on your face. Keep this in mind if you decide to apply more than one layer.

4Wait For A Good 20 Minutes

When your mask is finally applied evenly, you’ll want to leave it on for a good 20 minutes. You may experience a slight tightening or drying feeling as you wait, but don’t worry, you can still move your face enough to enjoy a nice glass of wine. I mean, come on! You deserve it after all.

Final Thoughts

To remove your mask, just apply some lukewarm water to your face. Doing so should reveal soft and velvety smooth skin.

This mask won’t make wrinkles or any acne scarring disappear instantaneously, so don’t expect it to be a miracle worker for your skin. However, it’s still a very nice way to indulge in something creative, and most importantly, put some leftover wine to good use. That is, if you haven’t already finished it off.