Saturday, January 11, 2020
If you currently don’t have #masking as part of your skincare routine, then it’s time to reassess. Face masks are a simple and effective way to give your skin the deep treatment it needs. In fact, for your very best skin, you should be applying a face mask on the regular – which means, at least once a week.
Too much to ask for? We know.
Between work, a social life, and sleep – you may not always have time to make it to the salon for your weekly face fix. It’s hard enough to find time to make it to the gym; pampering yourself with a fancy face mask might not seem plausible. And that’s what DIY face masks are for. Avoid the processed chemicals, save time, and give your skin the treatment it deserves. Bring the spa home with these 4 quick and easy DIY face masks. Let the masking begin!
Before applying any of the masks to your face, ensure you’ve thoroughly cleansed your skin with warm water to open up your pores. Be sure to test a spot on your skin before applying all over, to ensure there are no adverse reactions. Once you’re good to go, smoothe the mask liberally over your face, and don’t forget your neck!
1. HYDRATE
Use for: Dry skin, to moisturize and hydrate
Ingredients:
- 1/4 ripe avocado
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
Directions: In a small bowl, microwave the coconut oil for 5-10 seconds until it melts. Add the honey, and stir until both ingredients are combined. Whisk the avocado into the bowl, to the point where the mixture is smooth. Apply evenly to your face, paying close attention to dry areas. Let the mask sit for 20-30 minutes and then rinse off using warm water. Be sure to add a serum and moisturize shortly after to lock in moisture.
2. DETOX
Use for: Blackheads, to deep clean pores
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp bentonite clay powder
- 2 capsules of activated charcoal
- 1 + 1/2 tsp water
Directions: Twist open the capsules of activated charcoal and empty the contents into a small bowl. Mix in the bentonite clay powder and water, and blend until you create a paste-like texture. Apply to your face and let it sit for about 10 minutes. You’ll notice your skin begin to tighten up as the ingredients dry – don’t worry, this is normal! Wash off and voilà! Say hello to your freshly detoxed skin.
3. GLOW
Use for: Dull or dry skin, dark circles, for a boost of brightness and radiance
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp milk
Directions: Before handling turmeric, be aware! Turmeric is a dye from the ginger family, and can stain anything into a bright yellow. Be sure to put on an old t-shirt in case the mask drips, and try not to – well, walk into any walls. Mix all ingredients together and stir. Add more milk if you prefer a more milky texture , or less if you prefer the mask to be thick. Brush the mask onto your face, especially under the eyes to target any dark circles. Leave the mask on for 20 minutes, until the mixture dries. Wash your face off with cold water to close up your pores, and apply a radiating moisture right after.
4. CLEAR
Use for: Scars and redness, to brighten and fade darkspots
Ingredients:
- 1/2 lemon or 1 tsp of lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 + 1/2 baking soda
Directions: Tightly squeeze the 1/2 lemon to extract all juice. If you’re using bottled lemon juice, use one teaspoon and add the extract to the honey and baking soda. After mixing the ingredients together, you should end up with a paste-like texture. In the event the mixture is too runny, simply add more baking soda to even it out. Using circular motions, apply the mask all over your face. Leave the mask on for 5-10 minutes, depending on the sensitivity of your skin. Since the lemon and baking soda have an acidic effect, you may begin to feel burning. Remove the mask immediately with warm water if you feel a burning sensation. Remove all excess mixture, and splash on some cold water to close your pores. Moisturize with a cold cream or face oil for the final touch.
Happy masking!