Homemade Face Masks

I admit, it took me a few years. I never understood the meaning of face masks, probably because I didn’t see people use them very often. They are done, more or less, privately. But the older I get, the wiser I get, and I’m finally beginning to understand them. My love of face masks started with my enjoyment of time I dedicate only to myself, like I’m luxuriating in a luscious spa.

Now, I can tell you, I am beginning to love it more and more all the time.

Enjoying a face mask is one of the ways I like to switch off and, at the same time,  do something beneficial for my skin. Sometimes, I use a mask just while brushing my teeth, but my favorite way to use a face mask is to slather it on my face, neck, and chest. Then, lie down somewhere with my feet up, and relax with music or my favorite podcast.

But, for now, enough writing! Let’s make a mask.

Here are a few of my favorite ingredients:

1. Clay

Green, white, or rose clay are my superstars when making face masks. Clays are natural and effective in detoxifying skin because they draw toxins out. The big advantage of clay is that you can always make your mask fresh, and in exactly the quantity you need.

One small bowl is enough for a teaspoon of clay and a two teaspoons of water. If you’ve never used clay before, test it on your inner wrist first. A friend of mine had a little allergic reaction to the clay she used, so test it first to avoid a bigger issue.

2. Facial oil

One variation on a plain clay mask is to use the clay that you like the most, mix it with water, then add a small amount of facial oil. If you have unpredictable skin like I do, choose an oil that doesn’t clog your pores. Avocado, hemp, rosehip, or virgin olive oil are all good oils for the face.

I usually use 1 teaspoon of clay, 1 teaspoon of water, and a few drops of oil. Now you have a magical mask that you can apply and rinse with warm water 10 minutes later.

3. Raw cocoa powder

Cocoa is certainly not the most ecological product, because it travels far and wide from its home to get around the world. However, there are days when I let myself use it without guilt (or less guilt). It’s not an ingredient only for chocolate lovers, raw cocoa is full of antioxidants and stimulates circulation in the face.

I like to mix 1 teaspoons of cocoa with 1 teaspoon of clay, then add water slowly until it becomes sticky and wet.

4. Oats

Oats are great for exfoliating the skin and absorbing dirt and oil. I use about 2 tablespoons of oats and with 6 tablespoons of water. After I mix them together, I let the oats soak in the water. Finer oats are better because you can spread them more evenly, but prepare some towels, because this mask doesn’t stick to your face very well.

5. Honey

Honey is a moisturizing and antibacterial ingredient, and can help to heal small scars. You can use plain honey, or mix it with some facial oil for a smoother texture. Honey also has a great effect when used as a mask for your lips. It especially helps dry lips, making them feel more refreshed and moisturized. Just try to not to lick your lips immediately!

Your face mask fantasies have no limits, so enjoy yourself while trying new combinations.

You don’t need to worry about how to store masks with these ingredients, because you can always mix your masks fresh as part of your ritual. Try adding cinnamon or one drop of your favorite essential oil for a nice scent as well.

At the end of the day, one thing that helps my skin the most is going to the sauna regularly.

I go to the sauna at least once per week, and when my pores open from the heat, I massage my face gently with a clean towel. I pay special attention to my chin and nose, and areas that I feel need more care.

If you are not fan of the sauna, you can steam your face at home with hot water and herbs once per week instead. Boil some water in a pot and put it aside to cool just enough. Add some herbs like lavender, chamomile, lemon balm, or any others that you like. When the steam has cooled enough, lean over the pot and cover your head with a towel so none of the herbal steam escapes.

Relax and breathe deeply for 10 minutes. Afterwards, massage your face with a clean towel, then finish with your usual hydrating skincare routine.

Have beautiful, skin-celebrating moments, and let me know if you find my tips useful,

Pureearthwoman

Translation with the help of Ellie Farrier

I am not a dermatologist, please take this article as pure suggestion.