The water can be spring water or "rose water" or "lime water." "Rose water" is a rose infusion, which can often be purchased. "Rose water" is made by tying a handful of dried rose petals in a cheese cloth, placing the bundle in a glass jar, covering it with boiling water, and letting it steep until cool. "Lime water" is also an infusion, but I have never seen it for sale. "Lime water" can be made by placing a handful of grated lime peels in a cheese cloth, placing the bundle in a glass jar, covering it with boiling water, and letting it steep until cool.
In accordance with tradition, the bowl for mixing this "Beautifying Facial Masque" ought to be made of pottery, glass, or wood, rather than metal. The stiring implement ought to be pottery, glass, or wood, too. This masque must mixed until it is the consistancy of a smooth paste, adding more water or clay as needed.
A 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick layer of clay masque is applied to beautify and refresh the face. As it dries, this masque will cleanse, exfoliate, smoothe and soften the skin, by drawing out excessive oil and sweat. The person ought to feel a pulling and tightening sensation. After 5 minutes for "delicate" skin and 15-20 minutes for "normal" to "oily" skin, remove clay by gently washing with warm water. The Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay website added, "A slight redness may appear after removing the clay. This is normal and will disappear in approximately 30 minutes."
In his "Natural History," Pliney the Elder wrote of the healthful benefits of clay, including acne treatments . The ancient Egyptians used medicinal clay as an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent. It is also reported that Queen Cleopatra VII used clays to preserve her complexion. A Muslim scholar, Ibn al-Baitar (1197–1248), discussed eight kinds of medicinal clay, including "Egyptian earth."
copyright 2011 Myth Woodling
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