How to Make a Natural Facial Mask

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Are you facing skin issues such as acne, excessive oiliness, wrinkles, or age spots? 

Achieving great skin is not only determined by genetics, but also through the adoption of a proper skin care routine including cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing. 

While visiting spas can provide excellent results for skin maintenance, these trips can become costly in the long run. However, did you know that you can achieve similar results with a homemade face mask using ingredients found in your kitchen? 

From fixing blemishes to rejuvenating dull skin, here are some simple recipes that can address common skin problems using ingredients such as avocado, oatmeal, honey, turmeric, or banana.

1. Anti-Acne Face Mask 

photo: Cosmopolitan Indonesia 

Acne is one of the most prevalent skin issues in the United States. It occurs when pores become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, resulting in the formation of blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, nodules, and cysts.

Egg whites, rich in protein, can help eliminate bacteria on the skin and prevent the development of blemishes.

Ingredients: 2 to 3 egg whites

Instructions:

- Separate the egg whites from the yolks.

- Pour the egg whites into a bowl.

- Using a cotton swab, apply the egg whites to your face.

- Allow the mask to sit on your face for 10 to 15 minutes.

- Rinse your face with a damp cloth and follow up with a moisturizer.

2. Anti-Hyperpigmentation Face Mask 

Hyperpigmentation, characterized by dark patches on the skin, can be caused by factors such as acne, aging, or sun exposure. While dermatological treatments are effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, they can be costly. A cost-effective alternative is a homemade turmeric mask, which also has anti-inflammatory properties.

Ingredients: 1/2 tsp turmeric powder 1 to 2 tbsp raw honey

Instructions:

- Mix the turmeric powder and honey in a bowl to form a paste.

- Gently massage the paste onto your face.

- Leave the mask on for 10 minutes and then rinse off with warm water.

3. Anti-Clogged Pores Face Mask 

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Oatmeal and baking soda possess exfoliating properties, making them effective in removing dead skin cells and clearing clogged pores.

Ingredients: 2 tsp oatmeal 1 tsp baking soda

Instructions:

- Mix the oatmeal and baking soda in a bowl.

- Slowly add a few drops of water to create a paste.

- Gently massage the paste onto your face, allowing it to dry.

- Rinse off the mask with warm water and apply a moisturizer.

4. Anti-Oily Skin Face Mask 

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Oily skin is characterized by overproduction of sebum, a natural skin oil that can clog pores, leading to acne and inflammation. Bananas can help absorb excess oil on the skin, while lemons serve as a cleansing agent.

Ingredients: 1 banana 10 drops lemon juice 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil

Instructions:

- Mash the banana in a bowl.

- Add the lemon juice and olive oil to create a liquid paste.

- Apply the mask to your face.

- Leave the mask on for 15 minutes and then rinse off with warm water.

5. Hydrating Face Mask for Dry Skin 

Dry skin can lead to dullness, itching, and discomfort, which can be addressed with a hydrating face mask.

Ingredients: 1/2 cucumber 2 tbsp aloe vera gel

Instructions:

- Blend the cucumber and mix it with the aloe vera gel.

- Gently massage the paste onto your face.

- Let the mask sit for 30 minutes and then rinse it off with water.

6. Anti-Wrinkle Mask 

Frequent facial treatments can diminish the visibility of wrinkles and fine lines, resulting in a tighter and firmer skin complexion.

Avocados and cocoa powder can be used to boost collagen production while honey moisturizes and softens the skin.

Ingredients: 2 ripe avocados 1 tablespoon raw honey 2 tablespoons cocoa powder 

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mash the avocados until smooth.
2. Add the cocoa powder and honey and mix well.
3. Apply the mask to your face, gently massaging it in.
4. Leave it on for 20 minutes.
5. Rinse it off with warm water.

Read More: How to Get Rid of Back Acne

The Benefits of Using Facial Masks 

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Facial masks provide numerous benefits to the skin. They help to hydrate and moisturize the skin and are effective because the ingredients are allowed to sit on the skin for a period of 10 to 30 minutes.

The nutrients and vitamins in the mask penetrate into the skin, deeply cleansing the pores and removing the outer layer of dead skin. This results in a cleaner, tighter, and brighter complexion.

Facial masks can also exfoliate, soften, and brighten the skin. If you do not have the time or ingredients to make a homemade mask, over-the-counter options such as rinse-off or peel-off masks are more affordable alternatives to visiting a spa.

Rinse-off masks are removed with a warm or cool cloth once they have dried. Peel-off masks, on the other hand, are gel-based for deeper cleansing and exfoliation. You apply the mask, wait for it to harden, and then peel it off.

Sheet masks are another option. Instead of applying a cream or gel, you place a sheet (enriched with nutrients and minerals) over your face.

Guidelines for Using Facial Masks 

To ensure optimal results from a facial mask, here are some important do's and don'ts to follow.

DO's:

1. Leave the mask on for a period of 10 to 30 minutes, to allow the ingredients to penetrate the skin.
2. Before applying the mask, cleanse your face with water and a gentle cleanser.
3. After removing the mask, moisturize your skin.
4. Choose an over-the-counter mask that is tailored to your specific skin type. For instance, if you have oily or acne-prone skin, opt for an oil-free mask that won't clog pores.
5. After removing the mask, splash your face with cold water to close your pores.

DON'Ts:

1. Avoid using a mask if you experience any skin irritation or an allergic reaction, such as redness, itching, or a rash.
2. Do not apply a mask every night. Limit its use to once or twice a week.
3. Do not leave the mask on for too long, as this can irritate your skin.
4. Do not scrub your skin when removing the mask, as this can cause irritation and redness.

Read More: Coconut Oil for Your Hair: Benefits, Uses, and Tips

The Ideal Time to Apply a Facial Mask 

The best time to apply a facial mask is after cleansing your skin and before applying your moisturizer. This allows the ingredients in the mask to penetrate the skin more effectively. For added benefits, consider using a mask before taking a shower or bath, as the heat and steam can help to open up your pores, making it easier for the ingredients to penetrate. However, it's important to not leave the mask on for too long, as this can irritate your skin. It's generally recommended to leave the mask on for 10 to 30 minutes.

Proper Application of a Facial Mask 

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The type of facial mask you use will determine its purpose, whether it's for controlling excess oil production in combination or oily skin, restoring moisture in dry skin, correcting uneven skin tone, or exfoliating dead skin cells.

To apply a facial mask correctly, follow these steps:

1. Begin by cleansing your face with your regular cleanser.
2. Spread the mask evenly across your face, avoiding your eyes and lips. You can also extend the application to your neck and décolletage.
3. If the instructions specify, massage the product into your skin for a few seconds, usually applicable to exfoliating masks.
4. Wait for the recommended amount of time, usually 5 to 20 minutes, as indicated by the product instructions. Generally, drying masks for oily skin are left on for a shorter period, while hydrating and anti-aging masks are left on for a longer time, even overnight.
5. Rinse with lukewarm water and remove the mask with a soft washcloth.
6. Complete your skincare routine by using a toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen.

The frequency of using a facial mask varies based on skin type. Anti-aging masks may be used a few times per week, while masks for oily skin can be used two to three times. Hydrating masks may also be used a few times per week, and those with sensitive skin may only need to use a mask once a week.

Should a face mask be applied before or after a shower?

When it comes to incorporating a face mask into your shower routine, there are several options to choose from. One way is to wash your face at the sink and then apply the mask before getting into the shower. Another option is to wash your face in the shower and apply the mask, keeping it on for the duration of your shower. However, this method may not be ideal as it can be difficult to see how evenly the mask is applied and water may interfere with the mask setting.

A third option is to take a shower and then wash your face and apply the mask. This is particularly effective with deep cleansing masks, such as those made from mud and charcoal, as the warm water and steam from the shower can open up your pores, allowing for a deeper cleansing experience.

Regardless of the method you choose, it is important to remember to cleanse your face before applying the mask to remove dirt, oil, and makeup.

If you have dry skin, it is advisable to apply your face mask before taking a shower. This helps to lock in the moisture from the mask and the shower. After getting out of the shower, it is important to follow up with a moisturizer that is rich in emollients.

When you want to apply a face mask without showering, simply follow the product instructions and the recommended steps for mask application.

Sheet masks are used differently from other masks. They should always be applied before the rest of your skincare routine, but the residue from the mask should be massaged into your skin. This is best done after your shower, so you don't rinse it off accidentally.

An overnight treatment mask is another exception. As the name suggests, these masks are meant to be left on overnight and rinsed off with your morning face cleansing. To use this type of mask, you can perform your normal skincare routine and then apply the mask last. Sometimes, an overnight mask can be used in place of your nighttime moisturizer, depending on how dry your skin is. These masks are usually thicker and creamier and are designed for dry to normal skin types.

Know your skin type

Knowing your skin type is important when it comes to applying a face mask. Whether you apply the mask before or after your shower depends on both your skin type and your schedule. It also depends on the type of mask you're using. With a basic understanding of the general guidelines, you can easily incorporate a face mask into your skin care and shower routine for the best results.

Read More: Have Acne Prone Skin? This Is The Right Treatment To Overcome It

Source: https://www.healthline.com