Herbal Facial Masks for Treating Acne

Acne is a common skin condition and there are many ways to treat it. However, some treatments should be used with caution. Acne treatments can be varied from chemical-based peroxides, or acids, to herbal facial masks or even hormones and medication.

Many studies have now shown most over the counter acne medication to be harmful to pregnant women - even to the point of causing birth defects!  So, use extreme caution when choosing your acne treatment. When in doubt - go for the most natural or herbal method available; treatments like anti-acne herbal facials and clay-based or herbal based anti-acne facial masks can do wonders without all the abrasive chemicals.

HOW ACNE STARTS

Acne is common in young adults, teens and pre-teens and may cause emotional and self-esteem problems. In severe cases, medical treatment may be needed. There are many over-the-counter products that can help treat acne.

Acne is caused by inflammation of the oily glands in the skin - they are called sebaceous glands - that contain a fatty material called sebum. When the duct of the gland becomes blocked either by layers of skin, fatty secretions or dirt, a mini-cyst or pimple forms. The cyst can become infected with acne bacteria.

Treatment of Acne

Just as acne can range from mild to severe, acne treatments also vary, depending on how serious the problem is. The basic treatment is to remove what is plugging the duct of the gland and, if necessary, kill the acne bacteria. This is usually done either by applying a product to the skin topically or by taking medication internally.

Herbal Facial Masks

Topical prescription products may contain antibiotic ingredients such as erythromycin that help control inflammation but they may also be dangerous to delicate systems.  These chemical products are designed to clean the area, dry up the oiliness, peel the skin and eliminate the acne bacteria present, but there are many other herbal options you can choose that do the same thing.

Oatmeal - will help relieve redness and itching and inflammation associated with acne

Rosemary - is a natural antiseptic and anti-bacterial

Lavender - is a natural antiseptic and anti-bacterial and anti-microbial

Yogurt - will lighten and even out dull, patchy skin tones

Chamomile - will soothe redness and inflammation

When in doubt, choose a natural facial mask to help heal acne scars and prevent further breakouts.

Go The Herbal Way!

The environmental pollution strips the facial skin of its natural sheen and elasticity. This is where the need arises for daily skincare. Now the products you choose to bring in contact with your skin must be such that they can help your skin rejuvenate and revitalize. If on the contrary the rejuvenating products themselves are full of toxins, why use the product in the first place? This is where Mother Nature comes to help. Herbal skincare is a growing industry. Herbal skincare products are finding their way in almost all homes. Here is a little explanation just to brief you with the excellent qualities of herbs.

Calendula and comfrey are used as a skin softener. They must not be used in excessive amount. Rosemary is known for its fragrance but besides that it helps to vitalize the skin. Black walnut hulls are great skin products. They are rich in anti fungal qualities and hence they are used to treat skin disorders. They come with a warning though. They are likely to give you temporary skin darkening. Red clover and nettle are great skin detoxifiers. Likewise eucalyptus and lavender help to treat skin itchiness. They are also held to be useful in skin abrasions and burns. Fennel seeds are known to give the skin a sparkle by exfoliating the layer of dead skin cells.

If you choose the herbal skincare way, you are in fact choosing the most secure way. A whole industry thrives on herbal ways to skincare and it is actually flourishing. Herbal beauty products actually make your skin breathe. There is no need to spend a bomb on worthless synthetic creams. They are mere eyewash. Herbal creams are made from the gifts of Mother Nature and there is no way they can be sham.

So, go the herbal way. Your skin will be so grateful to you.

Help Your Skin Glow With Herbal Products

Herbal facial products are gaining immense popularity due to amazing benefits rendered by them. They are actually products prepared with natural herbs and ingredients that contain freshness of nature. Since, they are free from all kinds of chemical substances; these products have been considered the safest option for various skin problems.

Accompanied with numerous benefits, herbal facial masks are suitable for all skin types. This is the foremost reason for their increased usage among people. You would be happy to know that such soothing elements can be used by both men and women. Type of herb that has to be included in herbal product depends upon ultimate use which has to be obtained from it. Most common natural herbs and products used in varied herbal products are rose, neem, fuller’s earth, lemon, tulsi and fenugreek. In addition to these, other natural products included have been prepared with beneficial items of nature.

The most wonderful thing about herbal masks is that they are free from harmful chemicals. These chemicals are suitable for short time use but can cause long lasting adverse reactions if you continue using such harsh products. Natural products are free from these side effects and when once used provides long term effects. You can own a glowing, soft and shining skin that with the use of these natural products. Everyone can find a facial mask according to different skin types from variety of herbal facial products that are available today. There are clay masks, oxy masks, mud masks, anti-acne masks and various others that can produce desired skin results.

So, whether you are a teenage girl or a boy, an adult or old age, you can get an herbal facial mask for yourself. These products will not only make your skin glow but will also provide amazing long lasting skin effects.

Planning To Get A Herbal Facial Mask?

To begin with, let us first congratulate you for realizing the herbal skincare benefits and thereby deciding to assimilate herbal ways in your daily skincare regime. Nature has bestowed upon us a plethora of miraculous herbs which are full of medicinal and skincare qualities. It is upon us to understand the value of these herbs and benefit from them.

There are many brands of skincare products that have a separate special section for herbal beauty products. Both the manufacturers and the consumers have now realized the advantages of herbal skincare products.

The use of herbs as beauty enhancers dates back to centuries. Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, and English- all used herbs to tone up their skins. It is obviously because of their effectiveness that they were used. With the mushrooming of synthetic cosmetic industry, the herbal skincare ways somehow lost in the way. The herbal skincare ways have revived again and they have revived with a greater intensity.

There is a whole market that has captured the essence of herbal skincare. There is an unbelievable sprout in the herbal beauty industry.

Herbal facial masks are one of the most demanded herbal products. These herbal facial masks help to fight different skin problems. There is a mask for almost every skincare problem. There is literally no limit to the variety available in herbal skincare masks. All facial masks are rejuvenating but herbal facial masks add all the more charm and radiance to the facial skin.

Concocting an herbal skincare product at home is no big deal. Lemongrass, chamomile, fennel, camphor, parley, kangaroo paw flower, canola oil, Aloe Vera, mint, turmeric, dry fruits, orchids, sandalwood, tea tree oil are some commonly available herbs that help to enhance beauty. These can be formed into a paste by adding milk or honey. These herbal facial masks are indeed very effective in skincare.

How Good Are Herbal Facial Masks?

A facial mask helps to remove dead skin cells, open up blocked pores and delay overall aging. Although, readymade facial masks are a big hit, nothing can compare the natural and herbal beauty secrets. Herbal beauty products and natural ways to skincare are unparalleled. What is more, these herbal facial masks are very easy to make at home. If you are not the kind who would do the hassle of arranging constituents, blending them and applying them all by yourself, there is nothing to worry. These days, many herbal masks are available out in the market so you don’t have to go through the bother of making one yourself.

Coming to herbal mask benefits, there are more benefits than what can be jotted down here. The concept of applying a facial mask for beauty purposes is very old. The age of masks itself speaks about the benefits of these masks. Besides ordinary cleansing, nourishing, exfoliating and vitalizing of the facial skin, a facial mask tackles various specific problems like acne, wrinkles, lines, aging etc. For deep cleansing of the facial pores, facial masks happen to the best form of facial treatment. Herbal facial masks are all the more advantageous.

Herbal facial masks, or any facial masks for that matter, are easy to apply and remove. The timing differs from mask to mask but usually they should be left for not less than 15 minutes. While removing, do not rub the mask harshly off the skin. It will be wise to use a soft piece of cloth or cotton or lukewarm water to allow the mask to gently come out.

The most common elements of a herbal facial mask are milk, lemongrass, calendula, Aloe Vera, chamomile, honey, kaolin, avocadoes and egg whites. One must be extra cautious while applying the mask so that it does not get into eyes or somewhere.

Natural Skin Care through Herbal Facial Masks

You may often be lured by branded, expensive, beauty and skin care treatments. However, don’t forget that these beauty products may contain various preservatives and other harmful chemicals that can cause strong reactions and allergies on your skin. Owing to the sensitivity of your skin, you must preferably use herbal and organic products that are made from natural ingredients that pose no threats on your skin. One of the most effective ways to restore the luster and tone of your skin is through various herbal facial masks.

In order to ensure immediate results, herbal facial treatments are highly suitable. There are different types of facial masks that are widely available, catering to different needs and requirements. There is usually an anti-acne herbal face mask that tends to cure acne problems using natural oils and other products. You can easily find that many spas are now providing herbal facial treatments due to increasing need for natural skin treatments. An herbal facial mask can be a moisturizing or clay-based substance that is applied on the face, left for few minutes in order to dry and then rinsed away using tepid water. This process can be carried out periodically to give your skin a bright and glowing effect.

There are various anti-aging herbal facial masks that significantly reduce the signs of aging. Clay herbal facial masks are highly beneficial in retaining the suppleness and thickness of your skin. These masks tend to extract all the impurities and pollutants from the skin thereby revitalizing and refreshing your skin. Mud herbal facial masks are also widely used in order to treat various unhealthy skin conditions thereby making your skin look vibrant and lustrous.

Herbal facial treatments make use of products that are rich in natural oils which make your skin young, glowing and flawless.

Herbal Facial Masks Feel Good Effects

Facial masks can do more than just give you some peaceful downtime. They are an important part of skin care and a great way to prevent skin aliments and aging. It is recommended that you use a facial mask at least once a week. While it is not necessary to go overboard and wear one every night, a weekly facial mask session cannot only help your skin receive moisture, but it can also ease skin disorders like acne. Facial masks can be soothing or energizing, and the actions and rituals often involved with applying a facial mask can be an effective stress reliever. A facial mask is generally defined as a substance that is applied to the face, much like smearing on cream. It is thick, and often resembles clay. Many masks make use of clay or gel as a base, as these will stay in place when applied, and they are generally harmless to most skin types (although gel is used most for sensitive skin, as heavy clay irritate it). Masks are meant to cover the entire face and then remain in place for a few minutes before washing off. The materials in most masks are safe to be washed down the sink.

Many organic facial masks include both deep cleaning and moisturizing agents in the mask. This allows the cores in the face to be cleansed deeply, getting rid of oily build up and trapped dirt. This can help reduce or even prevent acne. Additionally, many masks help slough off dead skin. The dead top skin is dull and lusterless. When it is gently removed, the mask brings the top layer of dead skin cells off with it. This leaves younger, healthier cells exposed as the face’s surface. This means tighter skin and a more brilliant complexion. It can also reduce the look of fine lines and small wrinkles to carry out a regular facial mask.

Another reason that facial masks are so popular involves the soothing and relaxing motions associated with applying a facial mask. If you decide to have one applied in for relaxation as well as the benefits it has for the skin on the face, then you can have a very enjoyable experience. In spas, these masks are applied with special techniques and often include a massage. You can give your own face a gentle massage just prior to applying the mask, and if you are systematic about it, you can apply the mask in a way that is singularly soothing. All masks should be applied to a freshly cleaned face, rinsed with warm water. This opens the pores and allows the mask to do its thing. Warm water is very calming and soothing, and many people find this part of the application to be one of the more enjoyable stages.

Apply the mask in a circular motion until it covers the face. This is calming and stimulating at the same time. Let the mask sit on your face for 15 to 20 minutes (although some are meant to be worn all night). Many women like to lie down and relax. The effect can be enhanced by the addition of candles or incense and some soothing music. Finally, when it is time to rinse the mask, do so in cold water. This will help close the pores, protecting them against dirt and oil, and also energize your face.

Many people enjoy making their own facial masks from common natural household products like bananas (for wrinkles and anti aging), avocados, and honey (antibacterial). Butter can also be used as a remedy for dry skin. Other masks can be created using different types of clays, and different essential oils can be used for different skin types. Fruit purees also have different effects and yogurt and milk can soften the skin. Oatmeal is extremely soothing, and most sensitive skin types can use masks of this sort. Adding rose petal powder can enhance your fragrance without the need for perfume, while citrus fruit peel powder acts as an astringent.  Using a combination of herbal ingredients can offer an amazing experience.

When you decide to make use of facial masks, you are certain to feel the good effects of it later down the road. And if you apply them once a week, you can help keep your face healthy-looking and your complexion brilliant with a healthy glow.

Organic Face Masks at Home

SPA INDEX PAPAYA PUMPKIN FACIAL

If you have visited spas and resorts in exotic locales such as the Pacific Rim, Bali, Hawaii, and Tahiti, you’ve probably seen an esthetician select and mash fresh fruit in front of you for a fresh-on-the spot enzyme mask. It’s easy to recreate this mask at home — we’ve found a Balinese mask for you which will leave your face fresh and glowing.

2/3 cup fresh papaya, mashed
15 oz. can pure pumpkin
1 egg, beaten

1. Prepare the mask. Cut the papaya in half and scoop out the seeds. Scoop out the papaya fruit and mash it well to eliminate lumps in the mask. Beat the egg until it is frothy. Combine that with the papaya. Add the pumpkin to the egg/papaya mixture and whip together. You can also mix the ingredients in the blender or a food processor for an extra smooth mask.

2. Prepare your face. Wash with your daily cleanser and remove all residual makeup on your skin. Rinse with warm water. It’s very important to have clean skin to ensure you get maximum benefits from the facial.

3. Apply the Mask. Cover your entire face, being careful to avoid the immediate eye area. If you have sensitive skin, test the mixture on your hand before spreading it on your face. You’ll feel some tingling as the enzymes in the pumpkin go to work immediately — gently exfoliating your top layer of skin. It works like a scrub without being abrasive to your skin. Leave the mask on for 10 minutes.

4. Rinse Off Mask. After you’ve relaxed for ten minutes it’s time to rinse. The mask is fairly thick — head for the kitchen sink.

5. Apply Toner & Moisturizer.

LEMON FACIAL MASK

2 tablespoons sour cream
1 teaspoon finely ground oatmeal
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1 drop lemon essential oil
Cucumber slices (optional)
Mix the sour cream, oatmeal, lemon juice and essential together in a bowl. To use, massage over clean face and neck skin and the rest for 10 minutes (with cucumber slices if you have them) over your eyes. Rinse well with warm water and follow with toner and moisturizer.

Always use Lemon Facial Mask immediately for best results — the lemon juice will cause the sour cream to curdle if it is not used quickly.

AVOCADO CARROT CREAM MASK

This mask combines avocados, which are rich in Vitamin E, with carrots, which are high in beta-carotene and antioxidants, and cream, which is high in calcium and protein.  These ingredients will rebuild skin collagen, improve tone and texture, and fade age spots.

1 avocado, mashed
1 carrot, cooked and mashed
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 egg, beaten
3 tablespoons honey

Combine all ingredients in a bowl until smooth.  Spread gently over your face and neck, and leave in place 10-15 minutes.  Rinse with cool water and follow with your favorite toner.

Avocado Dry Skin Masque
California Avocado Commission

Beat the yolk of an egg until it is light and frothy, then add the mashed pulp of a half avocado, blending it well (you may use a blender at this point). Cleanse your face thoroughly before using this masque (or any masque). Spread the avocado mixture over the face and neck evenly; relax on a slant board or bed for about 20 minutes. Remove with clear tepid water and a face cloth, followed by a rinse of cold water or a mild skin lotion. The result should be a marked improvement in skin texture, and all-around revitalizing.

Avocado Oily Skin Masque
California Avocado Commission

Put the white of an egg, a teaspoon of lemon juice, and the mashed pulp of a half avocado into a blender. In seconds, you should have a lovely green mixture. Wash your face and neck thoroughly, then apply masque evenly on those areas. Relax for 20 minutes; remove with tepid water and a face cloth. Follow with cold astringent or skin tonic.

ALMOND-MAYONNAISE SCRUB
Dry Skin Exfoliator

1/4 C. almonds
1/8 tsp. mayonnaise

Grind almonds in blender until they form fine almond meal. Whirl in mayonnaise.  Gentle rub scrub onto your face, and leave in place 10 minutes. Rinse. Use a toner thereafter.  Shelf Life: Refrigerate for 2-3 weeks.

Apple Cucumber Facial Mask
1/2 cucumber, peeled
1 egg white
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon lime juice
1/2 teaspoon apple mint leaves
1 drop lime essential oil
Combine all 5 ingredients in a food processor and process until smooth. Add the essential oil last and mix well. Refrigerate the mixture for 10 minutes.
Apply a layer to your clean face and neck area and leave it on for 20 minutes. Rinse well with warm water. Apple Cucumber Facial Mask is best when used immediately as the ingredients are perishable. The leftovers can be refrigerated in the coldest section of the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days but should be discarded after that

Apple Face & Neck Gelee
Yield: Approx. 2 applications
Ingredients:
4 teaspoons hot distilled water
1 teaspoon freshly juiced apple juice
1 teaspoon aloe vera gel
4 teaspoons vegetable glycerin
1 heaping teaspoon powdered pectin
Add the glycerin to the water/juice/gel combination and stir to fully incorporate.  Add the pectin while the liquid remains quite warm (if it cools, place it in the microwave or a double boiler to raise the temperature) and use a hand held electric mixer to blend, or stir vigorously to dissolve the pectin. Once the pectin has fully dissolved, a light gel will begin to form. This may take from 15 minutes to 1/2 hour. Once the gel sets, Apple Face & Neck Gelee is ready to use. Apply the gel in a layer to your clean, damp face and neck. Rest for 15 minutes. Rinse with warm water and follow with a light moisturizer if desired. Leftover product can be stored in the refrigerator for about a week. Enjoy!! The shelf life of this product is necessarily limited by the fresh apple juice. It should be used within a few days after it is made.

Herbal facial masks you can make at home

Herbal Facial Mask

1 tbsp honey
1 raw egg
1 tsp crumbled dried chamomile flowers
1 tsp finely chopped fresh mint

Mix all ingredients in a small bowl. Apply the mixture to your face and neck. Let dry (10-15 minutes) and
rinse off with warm water.

SENSITIVE SKIN CUCUMBER MASK

This mask is perfect for sensitive skin.  Chill it in your fridge before use to make it especially soothing.

Ingredients:
1 tablespoon brewer’s yeast
1 tablespoon finely ground oatmeal
1 whole cucumber
2 tablespoons plain yogurt or sour cream
1 teaspoon honey

Mix together the yeast and oats in a small bowl and set aside.

Peel the cucumber and place it in a small food processor and process until only liquid remains. Add the yogurt and honey and process further to mix. Add the brewer’s yeast and oats to the cucumber/honey mixture and process to mix fully. To use, apply to clean face and neck skin and leave on for anywhere from 15 minutes to a half hour. Rinse well and follow with toner and moisturizer.

QUICK CUCUMBER PARSLEY FACIAL

The next time you make a salad, set aside just 3 tablespoons of basic ingredients, and you’ve got yourself a quick facial, to be enjoyed while soaking in the tub before bed.  You cannot get any easier, or quicker, than this.

1 Tbsp. Plain yogurt
1 Tbsp. Cucumber
1 Tbsp. Parsley
Puree (or use your handy rotating chopper — you know you bought one) the cucumber and parsley finely and mix with the yogurt until smooth. Cover your face with this creamy mask. This will rejuvenate your skin as it moistens. Leave the mask on for approximately 15-20 minutes for best results. Rinse with water. Do not store this mixture.  Especially over a long weekend.

GRAPEFRUIT & PARSLEY FACE MASK
Grapefruit and parsley are both effective and refreshing astringents, perfect for oily skin.

3 tablespoons very fine oatmeal (whirl oatmeal in a food processor, if necessary)
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
1/2 large grapefruit
olive or sunflower oil

Mix 3 tablespoons of very fine oatmeal with two tablespoons of chopped parsley in a bowl. Add juice from half of a large grapefruit until you have a soft paste.  Let the mixture rest 5 minutes. Spread soft mixture over your face and let dry for approximately 15 minutes. Rinse off with warm water. Follow with toner and moisturizer.

Do you know how to have beautiful skin?

In summary it’s not enough to get a facial to keep your skin clear and beautiful. You need to have a great home skin-care routine.

1. Get a professional facial to deep cleanse your skin at least four times a year, as the seasons change. Every 4-6 weeks is ideal.
2. Throw away the soap and use quality skin care products that are right for your skin type.
3. Wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days and in the winter. Use a good quality, high-SPF sunscreen. Sun damage is the single most important cause of premature aging.
4. Cut out skin-damaging habits like smoking, excessive drinking, and tanning booths.

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