How to Make Your Own DIY Facial Masks
Applying a facial mask 1-2 times per week can drastically improve the quality of your complexion. Dry skin can benefit from hydrating masks consisting of milk and honey, and a mud or clay mask can work wonders for oily skin. The best part is, for just a few dollars you can easily make a supply of your own homemade facial masks, some of which can be stored in the fridge and periodically dipped into for up to one month. Another perk about these natural mask recipes is that they aren't only intended for use on your face; they can be used on hands, feet, back, elbows, knees and any other rough spots or problem areas that need pampering.
After you've tried these recipes out on your own skin and can vouch for their value and effectiveness, why not make a whole batch and give them out as gifts? Pick up some hinged fruit-preserving jars from your local craft store, order personalized labels, and start packaging your own line of DIY facial masks.
Aloe, rose and clay mask
Recipe by Margo Marrone, owner of Organic Pharmacy in London.
Good for: all skin types, particularly sensitive skin
- 1 1/2 teaspoons French green clay
- 1/2 teaspoon bentonite (kaolin)
- 7/10 fl oz organic aloe vera gel
- 3/10 fl oz organic rose hydrolat (pure distilled rose water)
- 2 drops of organic rose essential oil
Mix the clay and bentonite together in a wooden bowl if possible (metal bowl if not), then mix the aloe and rose hydrolat together separately from the clay. Then add the aloe rose mixture to the clay little by little, stirring until all lumps are gone. At the end, add in the rose oil. Makes 2-3 facial treatments and will last for 1 month if placed in the refrigerator.
Almond, honey, milk and aloe mask
Recipe by Margo Marrone, owner of Organic Pharmacy in London.
Good for: dry skin
- 1 teaspoon organic powdered milk
- 1 tablespoon organic ground almonds
- 1 tablespoon organic honey, preferably Manuka
- 1 teaspoon organic aloe vera gel
- 2 drops neroli essential oil
Mix the powdered milk with the ground almonds, then add honey and aloe and mix well. Last, add the two drops of neroli. Makes 2-3 treatments and will last up to two weeks if placed in the refrigerator. When using, leave on face for 10-15 minutes to achieve optimum hydrating effects.
Fridge Mask
Tips by Amanda Lacey.
While the above recipes may require a trip to the local herbist, this simple solution calls for basic products found in most refrigerators, and can be used as a quick-fix to revitalize faces of any skin type.
- Mix one tablespoon of natural yogurt with one teaspoon natural runny honey.
- Apply to face for 20 minutes, then remove with a hot water washcloth.
- For dry skin, use two teaspoons of honey; for oily skin, add a few drops of fresh lime juice.