Make amazing chocolate face and body packs at home!

Chocolates can be quite irresistible and once you begin eating them, it can be difficult to stop. For many who are on a strict diet, it is all the more crucial to control these sweet temptations. You may love its taste but feel guilty about the additional calories you have piled on. But you can definitely give your face and body some TLC with a chocolate therapy.
 
Why chocolate is good for your skin
It is true that chocolate especially the dark variety can be soothing for your skin. The main ingredient in it is cocoa which has various therapeutic properties. According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, the flavonoids present in dark chocolate absorb UV light, help protect and increase blood flow to the skin and improve skin’s hydration and complexion.
Since cocoa is rich in antioxidants   it has anti-ageing properties as well. This also increases the production of collagen which is responsible for skin tightening and renewal. A chocolate facial will result in a healthy glow and keep problems like blemishes at bay. Another benefit is it suits all skin types which is a win-win situation for all in the house. 

DIY chocolate face packs
Instead of going for an expensive chocolate spa, why not make face packs at home? These are easy on the pocket and will give you better-looking skin in no time. Here’s how you can use chocolate.

Chocolate face mask
Dry, sun-damaged, or sensitive skin – chocolate can come to your rescue! In order to make a choco-mask, you will need cocoa powder (make sure it is dark i.e. more than 70% of cocoa). Add some curd to this powder and whip till you get a batter-like consistency. You can add a few drops of honey if you have dry skin or even olive oil for extra moisture. Now apply this on your face and neck and let it dry for 15-20 minutes. Wash your face with lukewarm water and pat dry. Also read more face packs using honey and curd. 

Chocolate massage cream
To make a chocolate massage cream for your body, add cocoa powder and some milk cream in a bowl. You can mix some gram flour (besan) as well if you have oily skin as it will help remove dirt and oil. This paste can be massaged into your skin, even on hands and legs. Keep it on for at least 15 minutes and then take a hot shower. Usually in spas, they wrap your body with a thin, plastic film (not the face, just body) after applying the paste to let its effect seep into your skin.

Chocolate scrub
Scrubs help you get rid of dead skin cells, giving a glowing complexion by removing impurities and dirt from the skin’s top layer. A scrub made using natural ingredients won’t harm your skin but keep in mind which ingredient to add based on your skin type.Take some cocoa powder and add rose water or lime juice (if you have oily skin) in it. Now, grind some oatmeal and add to the mixture. Add some raw sugar and honey too. Mix well but make sure the paste is semi-solid. Rub it on your face, knees, and elbows in a circular motion. If you feel it is too harsh for your face, add olive oil to the paste to balance it out. You can wash your face immediately.

If you are unable to find cocoa powder, you can buy dark chocolate from the market and melt it in a double boiler. Also, make sure you leave out the area around the eyes when you apply these packs on the face. Let your skin reap in the benefits of chocolate and if you happen to lick away some of it while applying, you’re secret’s safe with us!