3 Homemade Face Masks Perfect For All Skin Types!

While commercially available sheet masks certainly yield positive results, self-made alternatives with staple, readily available kitchen ingredients can work wonders on your skin too. Plus, keeping the current scenario in mind—with limited access to salons and parlours amid a global pandemic—we are being pushed to become self-reliant. Taking care of our basic skincare requirements at home is the need of the hour!

From antibacterial concoctions that soothe skin inflammation to exfoliating pastes which deeply hydrate dry skin, beauty and hair expert, Shahnaz Husain shares the recipes of 3 homemade face masks that are ideal for all skin types.

For Acne-Prone Skin

1 tablespoon of honey; which possesses antibacterial properties

1 teaspoon of thoroughly ground cinnamon; which has anti-microbial properties and prevents infection

1 tablespoon of green tea powder; which is a rich source of antioxidants, along with possessing anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties

1 teaspoon of baking soda; an exfoliating agent with mild antiseptic properties

Mix the above ingredients together in a bowl until a smooth consistency is achieved. Apply the paste on your face in circular motions and allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes. Next, use a soft washcloth and run it off with lukewarm water to improve the exfoliation effect.

For Dry Skin 

1/2 a ripe banana; a rich source of antioxidants which defends the skin against pollution damage. Bananas also serve as a great source of amino acids that enhance the elasticity of your skin.

1/2 a ripe avocado; loaded with antioxidant carotenoids that protect your skin and monounsaturated fatty acids that aid in retaining moisture in the epidermal layer of the skin

1 teaspoon of honey; a highly moisturising agent known for drawing in moisture from its environment

1 teaspoon of plain organic yoghurt; full of lactic and alpha hydroxy acids that obliterate dead skin cells, besides being calcium-rich and promoting skin cell renewal. Yoghurt is also a rich source of Zinc, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties

Mash the banana and avocado to a smooth paste. Next, add the yoghurt and honey to prepare your pasty mask. Apply the mixture to your face, leave it on for 10 minutes, and gently rinse off with tepid water afterwards.

For Sensitive Skin

2 tablespoons of well ground rolled oats; oats contain saponin which is a cleansing agent and has anti-inflammatory properties

1 tablespoon of plain organic yoghurt; it helps gently exfoliate the outermost layer of your skin 

1 tablespoon of honey; it reduces redness, gets rid of bacteria, moisturises the skin and reduces inflammation

The above ingredients must be whipped up to form a smooth, homogeneous paste. After applying it on your face, leave the paste on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. Pat dry with a towel.

Grab your mixing bowl and rejuvenate your skin with these DIY masks this winter season!