DIY Facial Masks For Acne

Facial masks are all the skincare rage nowadays. It's not a novel product as most people think, as the first-ever face mask was actually invented in the 18th century. Thanks to Madame Crowley, who invented the first mask ever: the face glove. This product, which was made to purify, preserve, and bleach the skin, has paved the way for the masking practice we enjoy today.

Types of Facial Masks

Of all the types of masks, the sheet variant proves to be the most popular. It is made of a natural fibrous sheet with holes for the eyes, nose, and mouth. This is soaked in a serum that contains skin-beautifying ingredients. 

The sheet mask is usually applied for 15 to 30 minutes. You will see that the packet often comes with excess serum, which you can apply on the neck, elbows, and other parts that need intensive moisturizing. 

Another variant is the wash-off face mask. This is applied with a spatula or a special mask applicator. It can be left on the face anywhere from 3 minutes to your entire sleeping time. Because it can stay longer on the face, it’s best for exfoliation and deep cleansing.

Wash-off face masks come in mud or clay forms, which are best for oily skin.  There are also cream-based masks, which are perfect for dry, parched skin. 

What’s in a Facial Mask?

Masks often contain vitamins, minerals, natural oils, and fruit extracts. They usually feature antioxidant-packed serums that help slow skin aging. Some are even made with hyaluronic acid, which can keep the skin moisturized and blemish-free. 

Depending on the ingredients used, a facial mask can refresh, revitalize, or rejuvenate your skin. Some can deep clean your pores, while some can help banish those pesky zits and pimples. 

When is the Best Time to Apply a Facial Mask?

Some recommend using a facial mask three times a week. It can be used in the morning, so you look even brighter before you apply your make-up. You can also use it during the nighttime, which is particularly recommended for long-staying wash-off masks. 

If you want to make the most out of face masks, you can use them daily as well. You can follow this schedule recommended by Facetory:

Monday – Wednesday – Thursday – Saturday: Moisturizing Mask

Tuesday – Friday – Sunday: Functional Mask (acne control, anti-aging, detoxifying, etc.) 

How to Apply a Facial Mask 

While facial masks are very easy to use, there is a routine you need to follow before application. First, you need to clean and tone your face properly. 

After doing so, you can go ahead with applying your sheet or wash-off mask. Some products require some form of massage, so it's best to check the product label if you need to do so. 

Leave the mask for the duration specified by the manufacturer. Sheet masks are usually applied for 15 to 30 minutes. Some wash-off masks, on the other hand, can be left on the skin overnight. After the prescribed staying time, you can remove/rinse the mask with warm water or a moist washcloth. 

After mask application, you can go ahead with your favorite moisturizer and sunblock. 

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Do Facial Masks Work for Acne?

Acne is one of the most burdensome skin conditions on the planet. According to a study by Cordain et al., it affects 79% to 95% of the adolescent population. It widely affects people aged 25 years and above as well, with 40% to 54% of adults reporting some form of facial acne.

Because of its prevalence, people are looking for ways to prevent acne – if not reduce the severity of said zits. One of the best (if not the cheapest) ways to do so is to make use of facial masks with pimple-fighting substances. 

According to experts, here are some of the best natural ingredients against breakouts:

1. Yogurt. This creamy product is chock full of probiotics, beneficial bacteria that may help reduce acne. According to Kober and Bowe, probiotics can help keep Propionibacterium acnes, an organism that causes pimples, at bay. 
2. Papaya. This fruit is rich in vitamins that can help manage acne. It is loaded with Vitamin C, which can help control the inflammatory processes that trigger pimples. 
3. Turmeric. This yellow spice is widely known for its anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. According to Vaughn et al., it may help control acne and other skin conditions, such as psoriasis and pruritis (skin itching). 
4. Tea tree oil. This extract, which comes from the Australian tree Melaleuca alternifolia, is known for its bacteria-fighting properties. One study has shown that tea tree oil can help reduce acne lesions just like benzoyl peroxide, but with lesser side effects. 

DIY Herbal Facial Masks Starting at $1

While facial masks are widely available in drugstores, beauty stores, and online shops, nothing beats having to create a mask on your own. After all, you are sure that only safe, natural ingredients touch your face. 

Here are some DIY herbal facial masks that you can create for as low as $1:

Ingredients:

Mash the papaya chunks well. Mix in the other ingredients afterward. Apply the mask on your face for 10-15 minutes before rinsing. 

Cost per serving: $3.17 (Papaya - $2, Honey – 65 cents, Lemon – 52 cents) 

Ingredients: 

Mix all of these ingredients. Apply the mask on cleansed, toned skin. Leave for 15 minutes before washing off. 

Cost per serving: $1.59 (Yogurt – 86 cents, honey – 65 cents, Turmeric – 8 cents) 

• Turmeric Mask

Ingredients

• 1 tsp. Turmeric
• 2 tbsps. Flour 
• 3 tbsps. Yogurt
• 1 tsp. Honey

Combine all of the ingredients well. Apply a thin layer of the mask, leaving it on for about 20 minutes. Rinse off in a scrubbing motion. 

Cost per serving: $1.05 (Turmeric – 16 cents, Flour – 3 cents, Yogurt – 21 cents, 65 cents) 

In a Nutshell

Facial masks come in sheet and wash-off varieties. They can help moisturize and rejuvenate the skin, with some that can help reduce acne marks as well. Masks can be applied in the morning, or at nighttime for more intensive results. 

While masks are widely available in the market, nothing beats making your own face mask. You can make use of natural ingredients, such as yogurt, papaya, and turmeric. These products can help reduce acne, sans the usual side effects. 

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