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There’s nothing quite like a face mask to step up your skin care routine. The right mask is not just an indulgent treat — it can also tackle key skin concerns and conditions, from dryness and dehydration to large pores and acne. Depending on your age, some masks will be more beneficial than others. Read on to learn about the types of face masks, how to apply it and how to choose the right one for your age range and unique complexion. 

Benefits Of Masking | Types Of Face Masks | Face Mask For Your Skin Type | Face Mask For Your Age | How Often Should You Use A Face Mask? 

Benefits Of Masking: What You Didn’t Know About Masks

Just like a serum or moisturizer, a face mask is a skin care vehicle. It delivers highly concentrated actives, vitamins and nutrients to the skin to improve its overall health. The difference? Face masks are occlusive — they create a physical barrier that locks in beneficial ingredients, allowing the skin to absorb more efficiently.  

Face masks are designed to be used intermittently to give your skin an instant boost. Depending on what your skin needs, there is a mask that can do one (or a combination) of the following:

Hydrates and moisturizes dry skin
Refines large pores
Improves skin texture
Absorbs excess oil and dirt
Decongests clogged pores
Minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Enhances elasticity
Improves the look of breakouts
Brightens dark spots

To help you find your “mask match,” here’s a quick cheat sheet about the different types of face masks on the market.

Types Of Face Masks Available

With so many options out there, how do you choose the right face mask for you? Here’s what you need to know about each type of mask texture. 

Cream 

Think of the texture of a rich moisturizer — that’s the best way to describe the feel of a cream-based mask. These face masks do wonders for adding moisture and nutrients back into the skin, helping maintain a plump and young-looking appearance. Eminence Organics International Educator Brian Goodwin lets us in on a skin care secret: “An insider tip is that most of our cream-based masks can be used as a leave-on treatment.”

One option is our cream-based Bamboo Age Corrective Masque that smooths the appearance of dry, dehydrated or aging skin overnight. Our Coconut Cream Masque works best with dry, dehydrated or aging skin while our Clear Skin Probiotic Masque suits acne-prone and oily skin types. Our Kombucha Microbiome Leave-On Masque is a no-rinse probiotic skin care formula that suits all skin types. It is designed to support the skin’s natural recovery process and maintain the a healthy skin moisture barrier. This rich, slow-absorbing mask provides soothing hydration and comfort to dry, dull skin. 

Gel 

Gel masks, on the other hand, have the consistency of a jam or jelly. With their lightweight texture, they are an excellent choice for oily to normal skin types. Many gel masks include astringent ingredients like raspberries and blackberries which minimize oil and tighten the appearance of pores. Others are formulated with hydrating ingredients like stone crop and honey which replenish the look of dry and dehydrated skin. 

Our Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Masque is suited for those looking for a firmer-looking complexion. It contains a cocktail of rhubarb extract, avocado oil, leafy greens and citrus. Whichever mask you choose, you can amplify your results with this skin care tip from Brian: Apply your favorite gel-based mask before hopping in the shower to make it an active in-shower treatment. 

Clay 

With its absorbent, exfoliating and astringent properties, clay treats ongoing skin conditions related to acne such as excess oil and inflammation. Pro skin care tip: Did you know a clay mask can double as a spot treatment? Lead Skin Care Trainer Natalie Pergar recommends using the Acne Advanced Clarifying Masque to treat bumpy and congested skin: “It’s nice and creamy in texture, and you literally need a little bit … Just hit those little areas and let it dry.”

Exfoliating

Exfoliating masks are formulated to remove dead skin cells and enhance your skin’s natural turnover process. This type of face mask may take the form of a chemical peel which employs alpha or beta hydroxy acids to dissolve dead skin cells and clear them from the skin’s surface. The hypoallergenic Radish Seed Refining Peel reduces the appearance of problem skin and the look of fine lines and wrinkles. For pore-clearing exfoliating benefits, our Product Support Representatives recommend pairing it with either the Yellow Sweet Clover Anti-Redness Masque or the Seabuckthorn Balancing Masque. Use the Seabuckthorn Balancing Masque if you have combination skin. For drier skin types, we recommend the Yellow Sweet Clover Anti-Redness Masque. 

Warming

Warming masks contain active spices like paprika and cinnamon that make the skin feel warm. They intentionally cause a tingling sensation, and in some cases, the skin may turn bright red. The immediate effects last from 20 – 60 minutes before revealing a healthy, glowy complexion. In the same way that increased energy is a benefit of exercise, invigorating your complexion and increasing your blood flow provides a great workout for your skin. 

However, these masks aren’t for everyone: If you have sensitive skin, you’re better off choosing a cream or gel-based mask that won’t exacerbate your symptoms. 

Notably, our Eight Greens Phyto Masque — Hot has been recognized as a 2020 Allure Best Of Beauty Award winner within the “Clean Beauty” category. Blended from whole plants, seeds and spices, this formula invigorates and rejuvenates the appearance of the skin. 

Watch our In The Mix video below to find out more about our warming face masks: :

Our Turmeric Energizing Treatment is also designed to awaken dull, tired skin. Formulated with turmeric as well as citrine gemstones and zeolite, this mask only needs water to activate a fluffy mousse bursting with energy. 

The Best Face Mask For Your Skin Type

If you prefer to use one mask at a time, it’s important to choose the right face mask for your skin type and skin concerns. To get your wheels turning, here are our suggestions for each skin type:

Dry Skin

Dry skin often means dealing with flaky patches, a scaly skin texture or cracked, itchy skin. Boasting shea butter and grape seed oil, the Strawberry Rhubarb Masque provides important fatty acids to help with the appearance of skin softness and dryness. 

Oily Skin

Oily skin is characterized by an overproduction of sebum in the skin. Often this excess oil may interact with bacteria and dead skin cells resulting in breakouts. Try the Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Masque for this skin type as it contains the Vitamins C+E to improve the appearance of skin health. 

Combination Skin

It can be frustrating to develop oily patches on your chin and forehead but dryness elsewhere such as on your cheeks. The Snow Mushroom & Reishi Masque helps to balance the look of the skin by firming its appearance and revealing a smooth radiance. 

Sensitive Skin

Those with sensitive skin should carefully read labels and conduct patch tests for any new product before applying it all over the face. If you do have a reaction, you can apply the Calm Skin Arnica Masque to improve the look of redness and irritation. 

Normal Skin

If you have normal skin, then your goal is to maintain your skin’s health. The Stone Crop Masque contains stone crop, lemon and other ingredients that reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve the appearance of the skin. 

And, for particular skin concerns and conditions:

The Best Type Of Face Mask For Your Age

Now that you know what product suits you by skin type, you can also filter based on ingredients suited to your age bracket. According to our Product Support Team, here are their suggestions based on different age ranges:

How Often Should You Use A Face Mask?

Now that you’ve learned the basics, how often should you use a face mask? We recommend adding a face mask to your skin care routine once or twice a week. Masking should follow cleansing, toning and applying a facial essence. These steps clear impurities and excess oil, provide a base layer of hydration and prep your skin to better absorb the benefits of your face mask.

Once you’re ready, follow these skin care tips to apply a face mask properly:

1. Apply Mask Evenly

It may be tempting to slather on an inch-thick layer of product, but more isn’t necessarily better. A cherry-sized amount is plenty to achieve the right results. Natalie advises evenly applying this amount in a “pantyhose-thin” layer over the entire face. Pro tip: Use facial massage techniques to amp up the benefits of this part of your routine!

Remember, Eminence Organics face masks contain concentrated amounts of beneficial vitamins and nutrients. We recommend adding two to three drops of water to your product and warming it between your hands before massaging it into your face –— especially if the product is gel-based. This will allow for more slip, easier application and (bonus!) less product waste.

2. Remember To Include Your Neck & Décolleté

That cherry-sized amount is just enough to also include your neck and décolletage. These areas take on the visible signs of age much earlier than the face due to their exposure to environmental stress — and they’re easily forgotten in a skin care routine. Pay these areas a bit of extra attention by including them in your face mask application.

3. Leave On For 5 – 10 Minutes

Most masks can be kept on for five to 15 minutes, but the duration can vary from mask to mask. Some face masks act quickly and can be removed after a short period of time; others can be left on as an overnight treatment to deeply hydrate your skin while you sleep. We always advise reviewing the label directions to apply your particular product so you know just the right time to remove it.

4. Remove Gently With A Damp Cloth

Don’t undo the benefits of your face mask by aggressively scrubbing it off. Instead, be delicate with your complexion. Use lukewarm water to gently remove the mask from your face. If you choose to use a washcloth, ensure it’s clean and has soft fibers that won’t irritate your skin.

Watch this video for a step-by-step guide on how to apply a face mask:

 

Do you have any favorite masks? We’d love to hear about them! Share them with us in the comments below and join the conversation on social media.

This article was originally written in September 2019.

These days, exfoliating acids are front and center in many skincare routines. They can be found in many types of products, from at-home peels and serums to toners and cleansers. The benefits of exfoliating acids are broad—they can improve skin texture, fine lines and wrinkles, discoloration, enlarged pores, and breakouts. They can even stimulate collagen production.

Exfoliating acids have come a long way since I first started in the business. Formulas have become gentler yet more sophisticated, and we’re starting to see brands expand beyond just the classic acids such as lactic, glycolic, and salicylic.

Despite all this, it’s still not uncommon for me to get questions from people wondering why they’re breaking out after starting an exfoliating skincare product. In this post, I’ll explain whether or not this is normal, when you can expect it to happen, and what you can do about it. Let’s dive in!

How Do Exfoliating Acids Work?

As a quick refresher, exfoliating acids work by dissolving the bonds that hold skin cells together. This loosens dead cells so they can easily be sloughed off. Regular exfoliation also prompts quicker skin cell turnover. The cell turnover process might be naturally sluggish in those who experience a lot of clogged pores, and it tends to slow down as we age. This is why exfoliation is great for addressing breakouts, dullness, and other signs of aging. 

Why Do Exfoliating Acids Make You Break Out?

If you’re new to using exfoliating acids (or just started using a new exfoliating product), it can be normal to experience some breakouts initially. 

Basically, there are two reasons this could be happening. The first is that you have clogged pores, and by increasing the rate of cell turnover, the acids are bringing these to the surface to “purge.” The second is that the product doesn’t agree with your skin and is causing some type of irritation or reaction. 

1. Purging From Exfoliating Acids

You’re far more likely to break out from exfoliating acids if you’re someone with clogged pores. Clogged pores are small, closed bumps that may be white or flesh-colored. They can be the result of a previous large, pustular blemish where the infection did come to the surface, but some residual oil and bacteria stayed behind within the pore. They can also be the result of dead skin cells falling into the pore lining and getting trapped instead of being sloughed off. This creates a buildup within the pore and can eventually also lead to a red, infected blemish. 

Clogged pores are non-infected bumps, so they just hang around and don’t really resolve or come to the surface. But, by increasing the rate of cell turnover, exfoliating acids encourage these clogged pores to come out. This is what can cause that initial purge. Typically, this will result in a whitehead that can easily be squeezed out. Alternatively, there can be some redness surrounding the whitehead. This signals an infection and means you’ve got a pustule on your hands.

If you’re experiencing purging, breakouts should typically be minor and should subside within 2-4 weeks. If you’re someone with a lot of clogged pores, it can take a little longer (closer to 6 weeks) and you may require additional treatments, such as a retinoid. Also, keep in mind that purging typically occurs in areas of the face where you’re already prone to breakouts. If you start getting inflamed breakouts in new areas, it could be irritation instead.

Read: Renée’s Complete Guide to Clogged Pores

What To Do

If you suspect your exfoliating acid products are causing you to purge, keep going! While it’s not the most pleasant process, it means clearer, smoother skin is awaiting you on the other side. To deal with blemishes as they crop up, turn to spot treatments (just make sure you’re spot-treating the right way). This will allow you to tackle individual blemishes without drying out the rest of your skin.

If you’re experiencing a significant amount of breakouts, you may want to cut back on how often you use your exfoliating acid product. This will make the purge last longer, but it will also slow it down to make it more manageable. 

2. Irritation From Exfoliation Acids

If you’re getting lots of red, angry breakouts (especially in areas where you don’t normally break out), it’s likely the exfoliating acid product you’re using is irritating your skin. Additionally, if your “purge” lasts more than six weeks, either the acid product you’re using isn’t agreeing with you or it isn’t improving your skin. 

Irritation from acids can be a result of either the formula or user error. The product you chose might be too strong and aggressive for your skin, in which case you can look for a gentler type of acid or opt for a product with a lower concentration of acids. Otherwise, the product may be a good fit, but you could be overusing it. I typically recommend that people exfoliate 2-4 times a week, and it really depends on your skin so some trial and error is necessary. 

In addition to breakouts, be on the lookout for symptoms such as redness, itching, burning, or tightness. These can be tell-tale signs that a product is irritating your skin. 

What To Do

If you start to suspect irritation, stop using the product immediately. If your breakouts improve, this is a great indication that it wasn’t a great fit for you. If you’re new to exfoliation and not sure where to start, check out my beginner’s guide to exfoliation. If you still need additional guidance, you can always book a virtual consultation with one of our in-house estheticians to get personalized product recommendations for your skin type.

Finally, exfoliating acids aren’t the only products that can make you break out. Learn which other ingredients can cause purging.

Is Your Diet Really Healthy? 10 Quick Tips to Eat Better

by Caitlin H,

Nov 7, 2022

If you’re incorporating plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, complex carbs and whole grains into your diet, you probably think you’re eating a well-rounded diet. There’s a solid chance that may be true! But, a recent study published in the American Society for Nutrition found that many of us think our diet is healthier than it really is.

Thankfully, you can take control of your diet and ensure you’re getting the proper nutrition that can support you in reaching your goals, and WE CAN HELP!

8 Keto-Friendly Halloween Dishes Party Guests Will Love

by Caitlin H,

Oct 24, 2022

Halloween is a fun time for everyone, but it can be difficult for those of us on the keto diet to resist all that candy, unhealthy food and those baked goods sitting around this time of year.

Thankfully, just because you’re low-carb living doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy yourself. We’ve come up with a few Halloween-themed snacks… it’s scary how yummy they are!

10 Different Types of Yoga to Master Your Body and Mind

by Caitlin H,

Oct 17, 2022

Controlling both your mind and body are two things that can work wonders toward improving your overall health and weight loss efforts. And yoga is a highly effective way to get that control.

Yoga combines breathing and meditation (mind) with movement (body) to boost various elements of your health, including flexibility, endurance, strength, inner peace and well-being. Yoga is practiced by millions of people and the varieties and forms of the practice is growing. You can try out for mediation, fitness, spirituality and, of course, fun!

Work your way down our list of 10 different yoga types! You’re sure to find the perfect yoga workout.

3 Strategies to Maximize Weight Loss Through Portion Control

by Caitlin H,

Oct 10, 2022

Most diets focus on restricting your eating by cutting out things like refined sugars, carbohydrates, fat content, etc. And while reducing your intake of those things can aid in weight loss*, the constant restriction can also make it more challenging to stay dedicated and consistent.

Another practical approach is to allow some of the foods you enjoy most while focusing on portion control instead. Portion control is when you focus on the amount of food you’re eating and adjust it according to your calorie and nutritional goals.

Applying some simple routine tips to your meal portion control can go a long way toward helping you reach your goals!

Former Ballroom Dancer Reverses Diabetes while Shedding 45 Pounds with Diet-to-Go

by Caitlin H,

Oct 3, 2022

For 77-year-old Florida resident Judith Nelson, weight loss came secondary to a deep desire to regain control of her health and expand her lifespan.

“Healthy living is what’s most important to me,” Judith said. “Right now longevity and not being a burden to my children is my primary goal, and that comes from being healthy.”

Find out how Judith Diet-to-Go helped Judith work towards her goals, and find out how YOU could be our next success story!

7 Delicious, Healthy Weekend Dinners for Fall

by Caitlin H,

Sep 26, 2022

Autumn is such a fun time. The cooler weather and changing leaves make for an excellent time to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. Plus, the seasonal produce makes for exciting, tasty dishes that are packed with nutrition and flavor.

Do you have any fall favorites? We have a few we think you should add to your recipe book! You can whip up these delectable dishes on the weekends and enjoy your fresh, calorie- and portion-controlled meals from Diet-to-Go during the week!

5 Ways to Ensure Your Weight Loss Journey Won’t Be a Wash

by Caitlin H,

Sep 19, 2022

You know eating a healthier diet is vital to losing weight. You know that it means you’ll have to make some real changes, and you’re ready.

So you research online, you check out the article about the best new diets, you talk with your friend about the plan she’s been trying…

But here’s the thing: Losing weight isn’t about trying the latest and greatest thing. It’s finding what works for you and setting yourself up for success by ensuring your weight loss journey won’t be a wash. We’ve come up with a few ways for you to do exactly that.

Spin Class Instructor Says Nutrition is Key to Weight Loss

by Caitlin H,

Sep 12, 2022

Denise, a 47-year-old marketing executive for a major pharmaceutical company, has been exercising nearly every day for years. She teaches spin classes three days a week, lifts weights five days a week, and does yoga one day a week. Despite her incredible fitness level, Denise knew last December that her 202-pound weight meant it was time to make a change.

Even as a fitness enthusiast Denise turned to Diet-to-Go to help lose those extra pounds with its ease, portion control, and high quality food. 

Sweet & Salty Keto-Friendly Side Dish Recipes for Labor Day

by Caitlin H,

Aug 29, 2022

If you’re on the keto diet or watching your carbs, you’re good to go with the chicken, sausage, shish kabobs, or hotdogs sizzling on the grill. But what about the wide array of sweet and salty side dishes spread out across the table to go along with them? Just because you’re keto-ing it up doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get to enjoy a tasty something to go along with your main dish!

Let’s balance things out with some sweet and salty, delicious, keto-friendly recipes. You can whip these up yourself and take them to your next summer get-together.

5 Effective Resistance Exercises to Do as You Get Older

by Caitlin H,

Aug 22, 2022

You’ve probably heard how critical a well-rounded diet and consistent cardiovascular activity are to prolonging your life. And yes, those things are essential — and just as essential is incorporating resistance training into your routine. That’s because muscles naturally tend to lose strength as you get older; effects you can counter by doing things like lifting weights and using resistance bands.

We gathered 5 extremely effective resistance exercises for middle-aged folks and seniors. Do these at least a few times a week to work towards adding years to your life!

Healthy Hacks: How to Sneak More Vegetables Into Your Diet

by Caitlin H,

Aug 8, 2022

Vegetables — they’re versatile, nutrient-packed and a vital part of any well-balanced diet.

Here’s the thing. We all know how essential it is to eat them regularly. But if we’re being honest with ourselves, it’s challenging to choose the carrot sticks over the chips or the salad over the steak. So, we don’t.

That’s why we put together this list of 5 hacks to fit more vegetables into your diet. From smoothies to grilling ideas to veggie spreads and more, you’ll find getting your daily vegetable intake a cinch with these tips!

Nurse Tries Diet-to-Go and Sheds 30 Pounds

by Caitlin H,

Jul 25, 2022

Working as a nurse at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic had no shortage of challenges. Just ask 37-year-old Michelle, who started her career as a nurse in 2017 and worked in labor and delivery and the emergency room.

“I was working insane hours,” Michelle said. “I’d work overnights and never had time to eat healthy.”

But then she found Diet-to-Go!

A Comprehensive Guide to Water Aerobics

by Caitlin H,

Jul 11, 2022

If you’re looking for a low-impact workout that gets your heart rate up while simultaneously giving you the chance to build connections with like-minded people, then water aerobics may be the thing for you.

We put together a comprehensive guide to this fun, engaging fitness activity that is just the thing for anyone with limited mobility and those who love the pool!

7 Unique Outdoor Activities for a Summer Outing

by Caitlin H,

Jun 27, 2022

There’s nothing quite like a day outside enjoying the trees, grass and flowers while soaking in the sunshine and smelling the clean, fresh air.

We found a whole host of reasons why you should incorporate time outdoors into your weekly activities, particularly during the warm summer days. If you’re at a loss for some new unique ideas for a summer outing, the kinds of things that will make the experience memorable and enjoyable for you and your loved ones… we’ve come up with some fun things to try!

Lifestyle Tips to Help Manage Your Diabetes

by Caitlin H,

Jun 20, 2022

If you’re living with Type 2 diabetes, you know how challenging it can be to simultaneously manage your blood sugar while striving to meet your everyday demands. It’s easy to feel frustrated, overwhelmed, defeated, tired and stressed as you try to remember to do things like take medication, make your regular check-ups and deal with the everyday ups and downs.

We have a few lifestyle tips that may help make managing your health and your diabetes just a little easier.

6 Exercises for Improving Neck Pain & Tension

by Caitlin H,

Jun 13, 2022

Many of us spend most of our day craning our necks to look at our computer screens, tablets or mobile devices. That unfortunate but necessary trend has caused a whole host of posture problems, which in turn can cause chronic neck pain and tension, particularly as we age.

Thankfully, a mixture of strengthening exercises and stretching can work wonders towards alleviating these issues.

8 Healthy Side Dishes for Your Memorial Day Barbecue

by Caitlin H,

May 23, 2022

Barbecues are one of the best parts of summer. There’s truly nothing quite like a warm evening with a cold drink and plate full of delicious food while friends and family are all around you.

Want to have side dishes that provide a healthier, lower-calorie alternative to traditional options…without skimping on flavor?

Try one of these healthy side dish recipes that will wow your guests at that next summer barbecue. Enjoy!

Evening Tips to Level Up Your Weight Loss Efforts

by Caitlin H,

May 16, 2022

The evening brings a unique set of challenges to weight loss goals. It’s often the time when we sit down and unwind, which can bring a certain amount of temptation to munch on unhealthy snacks or drink too many adult beverages.

Here are some much better ways to spend your downtime to set yourself up for success tomorrow! Try some of these simple nighttime tips to keep yourself on track and ensure you meet and maintain your weight loss goals.

How To Develop a Healthy Mindset, and Why

by Caitlin H,

May 9, 2022

Life is all about your mindset. That’s true when it comes to losing weight, too. A recent study from the Society for the Study of Ingestive Behavior found that people who view a meal as a way to be healthy ate significantly smaller portion sizes than those who viewed them as a pleasure or a way to stay full until the next meal.

Leverage Friendship to Make (Not Break) Your Health Goals

by Caitlin H,

May 2, 2022

Think about what you do on the weekends. If you’re like most, there’s probably at least one or two outings that involve people in your social circles. And what do those outings involve? Food? Alcohol? When you’re trying to lead to a healthy lifestyle, maintaining friendships while sticking with your goals can be one heck of a problem. Or, your could try a few things to turn those friends into a resource!

Ready in about 30 minutes, this Instant Pot Green Bean Casserole has all the flavor you love in your favorite Thanksgiving side dish but is ready in a fraction of the time! No oven space needed!

Who doesn’t love homemade green bean casserole for Thanksgiving? Like from scratch. We’re talking béchamel sauce, the whole nine yards.

But on Thanksgiving, most of us only have like three yards in us, not nine.

Because there’s so much food prep to think about on Thanksgiving, my motto is to spend the time where it’s worth it (i.e. turkey and mashed potatoes IMO) and find time savers for the rest.

Enter, the Instant Pot. I’m a big fan of taking advantage of slow cookers and Instant Pots on Thanksgiving as it saves precious oven space, which is a hot commodity on Thanksgiving.

So I decided to take my beloved homemade green bean casserole recipe and tweak it to make an Instant Pot version. The verdict is:

full of flavor – think garlic, umami, and thyme
still creamy and rich tasting
great texture from the crispy fried onions
ready in about 30 minutes
no oven space necessary 
less than 5 minutes of prep time
worthy of a Thanksgiving table

Ingredients You’ll Need

Notes on Ingredients

mushrooms: i use cremini or baby bella mushrooms because they’re more flavorful (hi umami) than white button.

green beans: purchase pre-washed, pre-trimmed green beans for an extra time saver

vegetable broth: you could also use chicken broth for flavor if no one who will be eating it is vegetarian / vegan

heavy cream: adds richness

milk: this plus the heavy cream helps give it that béchamel – like richness.

parmesan cheese: this adds more umami flavor to the dish

crispy fried onions: a non-negotiable for green bean casserole – adds salty flavor and satisfying crunchy texture

thyme: adds a sweet, earthy, herbaceous flavor

garlic: the smell of garlic + butter + mushrooms sautéing gets me every time. don’t skip the garlic!

butter: I typically use unsalted when cooking but salted is delicious too!

salt & pepper: not pictured but still important for enhancing flavor

cornstarch: helps thicken the sauce 

Equipment You’ll Need (affiliate links – if you make a purchase I receive a small commission)

Instant Pot

Baking dish

How to Make Instant Pot Green Bean Casserole

Sauté mushrooms. Set Instant Pot to sauté function for 10 minutes. Add olive oil and once oil is heated, add mushrooms and sauté, stirring mushrooms halfway through, until tender and browned, about 8 minutes.
Add aromatics to the mushrooms. Add garlic, butter, and thyme and set to sauté until butter is melted, about 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Pressure cook the green beans. Add green beans and vegetable broth. Secure lid onto Instant Pot. Close the steam vent (should be set to sealing). Set to high manual pressure for 3 minutes.
Make the cream sauce. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together cream, milk, Parmesan cheese, and cornstarch until combined.
Quick release pressure. After pressure cook is finished, use quick release valve to release steam. Once pressure is released, open lid and strain out the remaining liquid.
Make it creamy. Stir in the cream mixture and set to sauté until mixture begins to bubble and thicken, about 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Make it crunchy. Pour green beans into a casserole dish and top with crispy fried onions.
Optional: Brown the fried onions. Preheat broiler on low and place casserole dish under broiler until onions are browned, about 1-2 minutes.

Expert + Time SavingTips

Buy pre-washed, pre-trimmed green beans.
Buy sliced cremini mushrooms
If you can put your oven broiler on low to brown the onions, do so. Or be sure to check every minute so they don’t burn! 
Be sure to drain out the extra broth after green beans have pressure cooked so that you don’t end up with a soggy casserole!

Recipe FAQs

How far in advance can you make green bean casserole?

You can make the green bean casserole up to three days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Let the dish cool before storing in the fridge. When you’re ready to reheat, let it sit out at room temperature for 30 minutes then bake, covered with foil, at 350 degrees F until warmed throughout, about 15-30 minutes. Top with fresh crispy fried onions. 

How do I keep green bean casserole from getting mushy?

Be sure to not add too much liquid. That’s why it’s important to drain out the broth/liquid from the green beans pressure cooking. If you need cream mixture needs to thicken more, add more cornstarch / sauté longer.

What happens if you put oil in the Instant Pot?

You can safely add small amounts of oil to the Instant Pot! The oil will help you sauté the mushrooms in this recipe.

Can I leave green bean casserole out overnight?

No. Don’t leave your casserole out at room temperature for more than two hours to avoid any bacteria growth.

What main dish goes with green been casserole?

So many main dishes pair perfectly with green bean casserole!

Here are a few:

Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Air Fryer Salmon (Fresh or Frozen)

Slow Cooked Salmon

Do people eat green bean casserole on Thanksgiving?

Yes! It’s an iconic Thanksgiving side dish that’s over 65 years old! It’s very popular in the midwest too. 

Can you overcook green beans in the Instant Pot?

You can! If you overcook green beans make sure to reduce the pressure cook time – this recipe only calls for 3 minutes of pressure cooking.

How do you store casserole leftovers?

Green bean casserole leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can I freeze green bean casserole?

Yes! Let the casserole cool completely and cover with plastic wrap and foil and freeze up to two weeks. To serve, preheat oven to 350 degrees F, remove plastic wrap and foil. Cover with new foil and bake until heated through, about 45 minutes. Uncover, top with fried onions and bake until casserole is bubbling, about 20 more minutes.

For more Thanksgiving inspiration, check out my other recipes below!

Instant Pot Cream of Mushroom Soup

No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake (vegan and gluten-free)

Slow Cooker Baked Apples

Vegetarian Stuffed Acorn Squash

Naturally Sweetened Cranberry Sauce

Slow Cooker Mushroom Stuffing

Slow Cooker Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese

Fall Harvest Salad Stuffed Acorn Squash

If you like this recipe, please be sure to comment and give it a 5 star rating below. If you make it, share it on Instagram and tag me @karalydonrd and I’ll re-share it with my followers! If you want to save this recipe for later, be sure to pin it on Pinterest!

This recipe was retested, reshot and revamped to bring you the most delicious (and most beautiful) dish! The original post was published November 2019. 

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Sweet Potato “Unstuffing” (Made without Bread) – The Real Food Dietitians

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Looking for a little meal prep inspiration? Need something easy to take with you to work? These 5 balanced bowls are exactly what you need!

Meal prepping can get really old really fast, especially when you’re sick of your usual go-to recipes. That’s where these balanced bowls come in! Bowls are a great way to add variety and versatility to your meal prep without having to spend hours in the kitchen. 

Using the Foundational Five to Create Balanced Bowls

In case you’re new to the NS Community and the Mindful Nutrition Method, the Foundational Five system is part of how we teach you to build balanced meals. It makes it easy for you to give your body the nourishment you need while having the flexibility to enjoy the foods you love without stressing about food.

The Foundational Five is made up of five elements of nutrition including Protein, Fat, Non-starchy Carbohydrates, Starchy & Sugary Carbohydrates, and the Flavor Factor (which brings vibrancy, deliciousness, and enjoyment to your meals). 

You can download our free guide that walks you through our Foundational Five system for creating balanced meals that you can use to meal prep or cook fresh this week!

5 Balanced Bowls 

Test out some of these Nutrition Stripped favorites the next time you’re in need of a balanced bowl for lunch or dinner. 

1. Fall Grain Nourish Bowl

This is a great bowl to add to your meal prep this fall. It’s a delicious savory bowl packed with nutrients through ingredients like quinoa, tempeh, and brussel sprouts. It’s the perfect combination of comfort and nourishment! 

2. Grilled Portobello Mushroom Steak Bowl

How could you not love a delicious bowl that’s filled with flavor and nutrients? It’s so easy to toss together mid-work-week or prepare in advance for ease. We’re all about prioritizing the combination of enjoyment and nourishment here at Nutrition Stripped. And this recipe is a beautiful example of just that! 

This Grilled Portobello Mushroom Steak Bowl is the dish you need for both nutrition and comfort! Packed with all the vitamins and minerals, it’s a wonderful way to eat a balanced meal. 

3. Sweet Potato and Greens Bowl

This Sweet Potato and Greens Bowl is a delicious way to enjoy a combination of fall flavors and textures. Sweet potatoes and greens are a staple in many households for their versatility, and because they’re readily found in most grocery stores and farmers’ markets.

This bowl features a delicious fall ingredient that you may not think to purchase as often — figs. Not only do figs add a nice sweet flavor to balance out the salty and savory ingredients, but they’re also incredibly fiber-rich, both with soluble and insoluble fiber. Give this balanced bowl a try next! 

4. Vegetable Rice Noodle Nourish Bowl with Peanut Sauce

This Vegetable Rice Noodle With Peanut Sauce is a great example of how to make a fully delicious and equally nutritious meal that will leave you satisfied and well-nourished. The fresh ingredients and delicious flavor combinations make it perfect for any time of year! 

5. Foundational Five Eggs, Beans, And Greens Nourish Bowl

This is a super versatile balanced bowl. You can use any greens you have readily available in your refrigerator! Just toss together your favorite greens, some avocado, beans, eggs, broccoli, and sprouts. Then top with a delicious green dressing!

You can make this for any meal of the day, and you can even prep it in advance for busy days. 

Tips For Making Balanced Bowls

There are a couple of tips you should keep in mind that will help you out a bit when prepping these 5 balanced bowls. 

Invest in good-quality storage containers 

Having quality storage containers can make all the difference when you’re frequently making balanced bowls, especially if you’re taking them on the go. It can ensure your prepped meals stay fresh longer, and prevent any leaking or spills while traveling. 

Don’t be afraid to experiment on your own

You can mix and match so many great ingredients to create a balanced bowl of your own. You can even use our Foundational Five formula to do so! 

FAQ About These Balanced Bowl Recipes

Have a few questions? Check out these FAQs! 

What if I don’t like some of these ingredients?

The great part about all of these recipes is that they’re so versatile and flexible. Not a fan of sprouts? Totally fine! Swap them out for some basil or arugula. Can’t stand sweet potatoes? Feel free to leave them out! Don’t let a few ingredients stop you from enjoying the ease and convenience these balanced bowl recipes can give you. 

Do You Want to Experience More Balance with your Food Choices?

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La Prairie’s Skin Caviar line is a favorite among skincare enthusiasts — and for good reason. The lotions, creams, serums and oils use caviar extract to plump and firm the skin. Now, 35 years after the debut of the line, La Prairie launched its newest serum and the most luxe product in the collection: Skin Caviar Harmony L’Extrait Serum. What’s different about it? Well, it promises to diminish vertical lines on the face so let’s just say, I’m in.

Skin Caviar Harmony L’Extrait Serum first debuted at the 2022 Art Basel fair in Basel, Switzerland, along with a digital exhibition featuring five emerging female artists. Here, it’s a celebration of the luxe packaging with its curves in the cobalt blue glass. But for me, it’s all about the good stuff inside, the potent facial serum. Because La Prairie believes it found the “key to the harmony of youth” with its newest technology.

Most anti-aging serums target horizontal lines, like those lines on your forehead. This serum goes after vertical lines via the strengthening and redensifying of skin ligaments in your face. When I tried Skin Caviar Harmony over a bit longer than a week, I focused the serum especially on my smile lines and fine lines in between my brows, really massaging it in areas where vertical lines are the most dramatic.

The application of this serum is luxe on its own. The tiny microbeads dissolve as you rub it in and the formula quickly absorbs into the skin. It feels lightweight and hydrating right away — not greasy and pore-clogging (my biggest fear). The brand recommends layering it with Skin Caviar Luxe Cream ($555 at Nordstrom), but since I’m PMSing, I went with an oil-free moisturizer to keep my hormonal breakout at bay. (FWIW, it was Reneé Rouleau Skin Recovery Lotion.)

I’m lucky that my lines aren’t especially deep (thanks, Mom) but my skin does easily get dry and dull, which in turn makes even fine lines more obvious. I can’t promise anything about how strong my skin ligaments are, but I did quickly notice my skin looked more hydrated and plump in just a week. Skin Caviar Harmony L’Extrait Serum is an investment, but if you’re in the market for a luxe new skincare product, it’ll make a gorgeous addition to your routine.