DIY Deep Cleansing Face Masks

Let's talk masks! Is your skin clean, refreshed and ready for the week ahead?  You should be deep cleaning your skin at least once a month to get rid of all that clogged up gunk in your pores, to balance your sebum production (oil),  extract blackheads, and to exfoliate dead skin cells. Facial masks can also brighten, tighten, and add moisture to dull skin.

I like to start my week off with a homemade facial mask every Sunday evening, using ingredients from my own kitchen. As you may already know from reading my bio; I create natural products, and enjoy mixing up my own concoctions for everything from skin to hair.  Some people may wonder: Why don't I just buy a mask from the store or book a facial at the spa? However, I get a level of satisfaction from creating natural ointments, and of course, saving money. All while pampering myself in the comfort of my own home.

 Now let's jump right into these "DO-IT-YOURSELF" homemade masks! Remember, before you apply a mask, always wash your face with warm water and a cleanser.  

Exfoliating Brightening Mask:

Tightening Anti-Aging Mask:

• 2 tablespoons Honey (or Apple Cider Vinegar)
• 1 scoop (or 2 tbs) Clay
• 3 tablespoons filtered Water
• Optional: 3 drops Peppermint essential oil

1. Mix the ingredients together in a bowl.

2. Apply to face with fingers or a clean foundation brush in outward strokes.

3. Massage mask into your skin with circular motions.

4. Leave on for 5-10 mins.

5. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry your face. Apply moisturizer.

Moisturizing Mask:

• ½ ripped Avocado (You may need a blender for avocado.)
• 3 tablespoons filtered Water
• 4 drops Rose Hip Seed essential oil (or your favorite oil)

1. Scoop the avocado out the skin with a spoon and mix the ingredients together in a bowl.

2. Pat the mask onto your skin and then massage in circular motions.

3. Leave on for 15 minutes.

4. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry your face. Apply moisturizer.

Acne / Blackhead Extraction Mask:

• 3 Activated Charcoal capsules
• 1 tablespoon Aloe Vera Gel (bottled or plant)
• Optional: 1 teaspoon Apple Cider Vinegar

1. Grab a bowl, open the capsules and pour them into the aloe vera gel.

2. Mix ingredients together (add ACV if desired).

3. Apply to face with fingers or a clean foundation brush in outward strokes.

4. Leave on for 5-10 mins, or until semi-dry.

5. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry your face. Apply moisturizer.

For a quick exfoliation: Add a teaspoon of Baking Soda to your cleanser every other morning for baby smooth skin and a radiant glow.

Don’t forget your neck and chest areas whenever you cleanse your face! Also, massaging the masks into your skin stimulates circulation and relaxes facial muscles for deeper cleaning.

There is nothing better than taking care of your mind, body, and soul; all while giving your skin a much-needed pick-me-up! You can try these masks out solo, or host a “beauty night” for you and your friends. Who doesn’t like a special treatment that helps put their best face forward? Enjoy!

Stay Beautiful! xo

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Sana Akibu is a beauty enthusiast residing in New York City. She loves all things natural skincare, and currently operates her own skincare line; Natural Thrive Products. She can be found in her kitchen whipping up body butters for clients, or at her local Sephora testing out the latest and greatest in makeup. Find her on IG: @Sanakibz