With winter coming to an end, you skin is likely looking dry and dull. A facial can help brighten your complexion and smooth your skin, but spa facials can be expensive. They can also take a few hours out of a heavily scheduled lifestyle. Fortunately, you don't have to go to a spa or go broke to get great skin in time for spring.

The first step in performing your at home facial is to cleanse your skin. It is important to get rid of all the dirt, oil and traces of make-up from the skin. Make sure the cleanser you pick is a gentle one that will not over dry the skin. There are many skin cleansers for different skin types. No one skin cleanser is right for all skin types. Experiment until your find the right cleanser for you.

Once your skin is clean and free of contaminants, it is time to apply a mask. There are many different types of masks based on your skin care needs. There are moisturizing masks for dry skin, clay masks for oily skin and masks designed to reduce the appearance of pores. Apply the mask according to directions, or make your own moisturizing mask from honey, mashed bananas and oatmeal. Remove your mask and throughly cleanse your face again to remove all traces of the mask.

After you have completed the mask step, apply toner to your skin with a cotton ball or pad. Avoid toners with a high concentration of alcohol. They can cause stripping of the natural oils of your skin, undoing the beneficial effects of your mask. For a cheap, all natural toner, you can try witch hazel.

If you want to include an anti-aging step in your facial, after toning is a good idea. You should wait a few minutes after the application of toner before using beta or alpha hydroxy acids on your skin. Not waiting can cause burning and discomfort. If you choose not to use an anti-aging product, you can exfoliate for your fourth step. There are many good commercial exfoliants, but you can make your own at home with baking soda mixed into a thick paste with olive oil or your favorite lotion. Do not push the exfoliant into your skin. It can cause microscopic tears that allow bacteria to cause infection.

Your final step is to seal your skin with a thick moisturizer. A moisturizer firms your skin, soothes any irritation and provides a barrier between your skin and the environment. Your moisturizer should be suitable for your skin type and it should contain an SPF of at least 15.