The Mighty Cucumber

The poor cucumber. Ever since Harry Shearer stuffed one down his pants as a male enhancement device in "This is Spinal Tap," the cucumber's reputation has taken a tumble. Composed mostly of water, cukes also contain Vitamins C and A and a mineral called silica that helps build connective tissue. The trace amounts of salt help draw excess water from the tissue surrounding the eyes, reducing puffiness. Plus the fresh scent lightens your outlook on oppressively hot summer days. Embrace the refreshing properties of the cucumber with these at-home spa treatments.

Mask:
Peel and seed one cucumber. Puree the cucumber and a few drops of filtered water in a blender or food processor until smooth. Strain the extra juice for at least 1 minute, transfer to a bowl and mix in a spoonful of honey. Let the concoction cool in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes and apply to a clean face and neck. Plop down in a comfy chair, slap thin cucumber slices over your eyes and think cool thoughts for about 15 minutes. Rinse and follow with moisturizer. Store-bought options: Peter Thomas Roth Cucumber Gel Masque, $45 at Bath & BodyWorks; Grassroots Feast Your Eyes Soothing, De-Puffing Eye Balm with Cucumber, Chamomile & Green Tea, $19 at Kohls.

Tone:
Cut a cucumber up into one-inch chunks. Puree the chunks in a blender or food processor until liquefied. Pour the puree through a fine mesh strainer, reserving the juice and ditching the pulp and seeds. Combine 1/4 cup of witch hazel with cucumber juice. Soak a cotton ball with the mixture and gently wipe face in upward strokes including eye area. Store-bought options: Ole Henriksen Balancing Cucumber Face Tonic, $30 at Sephora; Kiehl's Cucumber Herbal Alcohol-Free Toner, $10 at Kiehl's.

For more spa-spiked beauty recipes, visit the DIY Beauty Lab.