Sage HumphreyInstead of going to Sephora and spending hundreds on dollars on expensive creams that claim to fully remedy your oily skin, take a trip to the drug store and pick up some Phillips’ Milk of Magnesia. When purchasing, make sure you buy standard Milk of Magnesia, not chocolate or strawberry flavored as this would have an entirely different effect on your skin. Usually used as a liquid laxative, when applied on your face, Milk of Magnesia removes the oils from your skin. This can be used as a weekly mask or even used under makeup for an extremely matte finish. Perfect for those with oily skin, milk of magnesia serves as a matte primer to completely rid your skin of that unflattering shiny look.
Using Milk of Magnesia as primer
First, sweep the Milk of Magnesia all over your face using a standard foundation brush. Your face should be completely white when finished. Wait for it to dry, then apply foundation as you would normally. Make sure to use a pigmented foundation that matches you skin tone so that it will completely cover the white color of the Milk of Magnesia. This works on women of all skin colors as long as you use a foundation that matches your skin color. You can apply the rest of your makeup as you would normally, but you might want to skip on powder since you will already have a matte finish. This will stop oil production in your skin during the day, so you can be shine free for hours! This makeup tip is perfect for those big events where you want to look your best, like weddings or a photo shoot. Matte skin tends to be the most flattering in photographs, so use this tip for the next time the spotlight is on you!
Using Milk of Magnesia as a mask
Milk of Magnesia can also be used as a mask. Whether you want to put it all over your face or simply some trouble spots like your T-zone, apply the Milk of Magnesia with a foundation brush or a cotton ball. Sit back and relax while you let it dry. This should take roughly 20 minutes. Then, gently remove it with warm water and a washcloth. Since this will strip your skin of oils, make sure to apply a light, oil-free moisturizer after use to ensure healthy skin. Don’t try this if you have naturally dry skin because it will only increase the problem. However, this is a perfect quick fix for those with oily or combination skin. Depending on the severity of the oiliness, this mask can be used several times a week.
With the beneficial soothing properties and ability to help prevent oily skin, Milk of Magnesia should be a new addition to your beauty arsenal.