4 DIY Detox Masks for Healthy and Glowing Skin

Oatmeal & Cinnamon Face Mask

This mask is made with natural detox ingredients that you can easily find in your pantry. Oatmeal is packed with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that relieve dryness and soothe irritated skin. In addition, it acts as a light exfoliant that removes dead cells from the skin surface and dirt from the pores. Cinnamon is a great antiseptic, it inhibits the growth of pathogenic bacteria that cause acne breakouts.

Combine ½ cup ground oatmeal, ½ cup warm milk, 1 tsp honey (preferably organic), ½ tsp cinnamon, and ½ tsp lemon juice. Mix well to form a paste. If the paste is too thick, add more milk or some warm water to adjust the texture. Apply to clean skin, let sit for 20 minutes, rinse off with warm water.

Clay Mask

Various types of clay (kaolin, multani mitti, rhassoul, bentonite, etc.) are great at removing impurities because of their absorbent properties. In addition, clay is very rich in essential minerals that nourish the skin and help maintain its moisture barrier. You can make this mask with any kind of clay you want, depending on your skin type.

Mix 1 tbsp clay, 1 tsp maca root powder (Peruvian ginseng), and 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar. Stir well to get a smooth paste, then add 1-2 drops of Frankincense essential oil and 2 drops of vitamin E. If the paste is too thick, add some water to get your desired consistency. Apply the mask to your skin, avoiding the area around the eyes, and leave it for 10 minutes. When the mask dries, rinse it off with warm water.

Charcoal & Bentonite Mask

Activated carbon is an even better absorbent than clay. Besides, it lightly exfoliates the skin and has an antiseptic effect. These properties make it a great ingredient for homemade detoxifying masks. Along with charcoal, the mask contains bentonite clay that helps pull toxins out of your pores and balance your skin’s pH.

In a bowl, combine 2 tbsp bentonite clay, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp turmeric, 1 tsp honey, and ½ tsp activated charcoal. If apple cider vinegar is too harsh for your skin, you can replace it with plain yogurt or even water. Mix all ingredients with a wooden spoon to get a relatively smooth texture. If the mixture is too thick, add some water to adjust consistency. Apply to your face, leave for 5–10 minutes. Don’t let the mask dry completely! Rinse it off while still slightly damp.

Matcha Green Tea Mask

Matcha (green tea powder) is a rich source of antioxidants that neutralize free radicals and prevent premature skin aging. Not only does it help detoxify your skin, it also increases skin elasticity, reduces acne, and makes the skin look fresh and glowing all day long. In addition to matcha, the mask contains honey that gives the pores a deep clean and eliminates harmful bacteria that can cause acne.

Mix 1 tsp matcha green tea powder with ½-1 tsp raw honey to form a paste. Different types of honey have different consistency, so you may need slightly more or less honey. Spread the mask all over your face and neck, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Remove with a warm, wet washcloth and pat your face dry with a soft towel.

If you don’t have any honey, you can use water instead. For dry skin, try mixing matcha with unsweetened and unflavored yogurt, or with a cosmetic oil of your choice. Olive and coconut oils are generally good choices for all skin types.