Derm-Approved Ways to Get the Most Out of Your DIY Face Mask

Among many things, the lockdown period has taught us to appreciate the little things in life and the fact that our kitchen cabinets are filled with skin food!

A few drops of rose water or a dash of turmeric or mashed banana with honey - there are great ingredients for all of your skin issues right in your homes. "A regular skincare routine can improve your complexion, fight acne, and control oiliness. But don’t think you need a fancy spa to get great results. Using ingredients in your kitchen, you can make a homemade facial mask and give your face the nourishment and hydration it needs," says Dr Bharti Magoo, aesthetician and anti-ageing physician. 

So, here are her tips to make sure you use your DIY face mask the correct way to reap most of the benefits:

Clean up before masking

"Wash your face with water and a gentle cleanser before applying a mask. This helps the mask penetrate the skin better."

Protect your eyes

"Before applying your face mask, dab a small amount of eye gel or eye cream around the eyes. This will help to protect this very delicate area from dehydration."

Time the process

"It is best to leave the mask on for 10 to 30 minutes. This allows ingredients to penetrate your skin. You can also apply the mask before getting into the shower."

Wash off the right way

"When your face mask has dried, just place a warm, wet washcloth over your face and hold it onto your skin for a few seconds. Repeat this a few times to help loosen up and dissolve the face mask from your skin This will make the rinsing off process much easier and gentler for your skin."

Pore therapy

"After following the warm washcloth step and rinsing off your mask, splash cold water on your face to tighten your pores for firmer, smoother skin. Make sure to apply a moisturizer after washing off the mask."

Just enjoy...

"Everyone should introduce masking into their skincare regimen if they haven’t done so already. For just a few relaxing minutes a day, your skin will go through a noticeable transformation that you can see and feel. You may look silly doing it, but that makes it all the more fun."