How To Make An Awesome DIY Face Mask
How To Make An Awesome DIY Face Mask
Yes, you can purchase a face mask, but how about making your own? It allows you to use your own ingredients, thus making it both economic and ecological, not to mention just plain fun!
1. Cocoa
Not just cocoa, but avocado and honey. Mmm, good enough to eat! Cocoa is actually a soothing antioxidant, honey contains antibacterial properties, while avocado is hydrating. You’ll need to mash up a quarter of an avocado in a bowl, add one tablespoon of honey, then stir in one tablespoon of cocoa powder. Mix thoroughly, apply the paste to your face, and allow to dry for 10 minutes. After washing off with tepid water, moisturize as you normally do. Voila – beautifully cleansed and toned skin.
2. Banana
An even more tropical remedy which should suit all skin types. You need to mash half a banana into a bowl, add a tablespoon of orange juice, another of honey. The paste might be a bit lumpy but that’s fine; apply to your face, leave for 15 minutes, wash off with warm water and moisturize. You’ll notice a softer, tenderer skin underneath.
3. Egg
Eggs contain a skin-tightening property which works wonders, especially as you get a little older. You need to mix one egg yolk, one tablespoon of honey, one tablespoon of olive oil, and half a cup of oatmeal. Stir the mixture until it thickens. Add to skin, leave for up to 20 minutes, then rinse off (ensure oatmeal isn’t going to clog up your drain), and moisturize as usual.
4. Papaya
This is ideal for those who happen to have hyperpigmentation, sun damage, or uneven skin tones. You need to blend two tablespoons of honey with half a cup of mashed papaya. Apply the thick mixture to your skin for up to 20 minutes, then wash off and moisturize as per usual.
5. Turmeric
This is perfect for those who might struggle with acne; turmeric contains chemicals which decrease microbial growth, sebum production, and inflammation. High concentrate turmeric paste, or ‘topical turmeric’ may even help with discolorations or hyperpigmentation if used over a period of time. It may even work with pimples! You’ll need to mix three tablespoons of turmeric powder with water. Then, add two tablespoons of lemon juice to create a thick poultice. Apply and leave on for 5 minutes before washing off.
6. Buttermilk
An exfoliating treatment can be created using buttermilk. Mix half a cup of buttermilk with two tablespoons of natural yoghurt. Leave on your face for two hours, then wash it off to reveal your lovely, glowing skin.
7. Greek
Greek yoghurt, that is! It contains skin-softening lactic acid, and probiotics which can soothe inflammation. Mix into a bowl with oatmeal and honey, then allow to firm up and dry for 15 minutes. After rinsing, your skin should feel very soft.
8. Green Tea
Not only good to drink, but in powdered form (preferably matcha green tea powder), it can help reduce inflammation. You’ll need to use one teaspoon of the matcha green tea powder with 2 tablespoons of fresh aloe, or aloe vera gel if you can’t get any. The aloe vera soothes and moisturizes, while the green tea reduces redness. Try leaving the mixture in the freezer for 10 minutes first, before applying to your face for 15 minutes. The effect should be scintillating!
9. Vinegar
Vinegar, yes vinegar! It acts as an astringent, and can help tone the skin. Mix a quarter of a cup of cider vinegar with a quarter of a cup of water. Apply carefully to every part of your face and let it dry. Then wash off and moisturize as normal.
10. Mustard
Mustard contains bacteria-fighting sulphur, which can help with sensitive skin, acne, and inflammation. Simply pat it around all the skin, leave it on for 15 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water. Apply it to a smaller area of skin first to ensure it won’t irritate. The result should be a soothed and stimulated face.
The beauty of all of these home treatments is that they don’t cost you, and some of them date back centuries, to a time when people were more resourceful with and knowledgeable about naturally occurring remedies.