What are DIY face masks?
DIY face masks are a perfectly pampering way to give your skin some nourishment whilst keeping the ingredients fresh, simple and packed full of natural goodness. DIY, or do it yourself, means that you are mixing the ingredients of the face mask together yourself, using ingredients that you can find in your fridge and pantry. Spa-at-home with our DIY face masks guide and recipes.
Professional advice on DIY face masks
We turn to licensed esthetician, spa professional and clean beauty guru, Patti Coughlin, to guide us through the best practices for DIY face masks and beauty hacks.
Why make DIY face masks?
“Facial masks deliver nutrients to skin in a concentrated form and provide some instant gratification while addressing specific skin conditions.
First, a little science to keep in mind. Your skin’s pH is about 5.5, so choosing a mask with ingredients that preserve your skin’s acid mantle is key to keeping its barrier function intact. Secondly, whenever possible, use ingredients that are organic, raw and ethically sourced.”
Getting started with your DIY face masks
“Recipes for DIY face masks are plenty, so it is important to use ingredients that address your skin type and condition, are not irritating to the skin, that you are not allergic to, and can be easily applied and removed.
Pay particular attention to the amount of time you leave a mask on your face. A general rule of thumb is 10-15 minutes.
One real benefit to DIY face masks is that they are free of toxins, synthetic byproducts, chemicals and preservatives, making them especially beneficial for sensitive skin. That being said, these masks are meant for one time usage and should not be stored.
Taking some time to lower your stress level is always important, so whenever possible, use facial masking as an opportunity to indulge with a spa-at-home experience. Light some candles and enjoy one of life’s little pleasures using ingredients that you have on hand.”
Healthy glow organic DIY face mask
“When it comes to skin boosting benefits, coconut oil, honey, and matcha are the triple crown winners. This coconut oil DIY face mask repairs and balances and is packed full of antioxidants and bacteria fighting properties making it good for most skin types.”
Ingredients and their benefits
“Honey: Hydrates and moisturizes skin and contains anti-bacterial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties which help fight acne and may fade scars as it exfoliates skin cells.
Source: I prefer Manuka Honey.
Matcha: The polyphenols (EGCG) in matcha possess potent antioxidant and skin-soothing properties, and show significant promise for improving the appearance of sun-damaged skin.
Source: I prefer Organic Matcha.
Coconut Oil: Organic raw coconut oil has so many benefits for the skin. Here’s a breakdown of its components:
Lauric Acid – Kills acne-causing bacteria.
Capric Acid – Contains strong antimicrobial and antiviral properties.
Caprylic Acid – Provides nurturing benefits to sensitive and oily skin plus anti-oxidant protection.
Vitamin C – Stimulates collagen production and fights off free radicals which cause premature aging. Promotes skin tautness and elasticity.
Vitamin E – Bolsters the skin’s UV protection. Slows down skin aging, decreasing fine lines while keeping connective tissues strong helping prevent skin sagging.
MCFA – Medium Chain Fatty Acids Protect skin from infections and bacteria by creating a skin pH that fights off acne-causing bacteria (propionibacterium).
MCT – Medium Chain Triglycerides Penetrate and unclog skin pores removing dirt, pollution and germs. Dissolve oils that cause acne and blackheads.
Source: I prefer organic cold pressed raw coconut oil.”
Recipe and instructions
“Let’s get mixing our simple DIY face masks!
- 1 teaspoon organic coconut oil – I prefer Organic Fiji’s Unscented USDA Organic Cold Pressed Raw Coconut Oil for it’s quality
- 2 tablespoons honey – I prefer Manuka Honey for its added benefits
- 1 tablespoon matcha – I prefer any organic matcha for its purity
- Add all ingredients to a small bowl and mix well with a small spatula
- Apply the mixture evenly to clean skin using an upward motion. Be sure to cover all parts of your face, neck and décolleté.
- Let the mask set for 10 minutes.
- Remove by gently applying lukewarm water. Using a warm washcloth is also helpful.
- Pat face lightly with a soft towel, then let dry naturally.
- If needed, follow with a natural moisturizer – I love Organic Fiji’s Grapefruit Face & Body Lotion for an instant uplifting infusion of hydrating goodness.
- For best results, mask 2 times weekly.”
How to choose the right coconut oil for your DIY face mask base
“The best coconut oil to use for the base of DIY face masks is one that is certified organic by a reputable certifying agent. If that certification is to a food standard – even better! (Personal care organic standards are often lower than food).
Raw and cold pressed coconut oil has a high content of lauric acid and medium-chain fatty acids which have not gone through any molecular adjustments, processing or fractionation. Totally clean and with the highest concentration of naturally occurring benefits!
I had the good fortune of being introduced to Organic Fiji products about 17 years ago. While I had been searching for a better alternative to the oils and lotions I had been using, the benefits of organic cold pressed coconut oil went far beyond its versatility. My eyes were open to the newly emerging natural products industry.
The importance of knowing how ingredients are sourced and certified truly built my massage and facial practice. It became a passion of mine to share this knowledge with my clients, family and friends, using tools like The EWG to help them make educated choices.
Offering services that provided “uncompromised health and beauty” became my tagline, thanks to Organic Fiji.”
~Patti
Organic Fiji
Integrating coconut oil infused body products into your whole body care routine is more than a product choice, it’s an ancient ritual steeped in deep, island history.
Organic Fiji is a female and Pacific Islander owned boutique brand that creates organic body care products, based in California.
Organic Fiji’s artisan products have been USDA Certified Organic by Oregon Tilth since 2007 and are vegan, cruelty-free, eco-friendly and ethically created. You can also be assured that Organic Fiji products are free of GMOs, PEGs, parabens, phthalates, sulfates, artificial colors, synthetic fragrances, harsh ingredients or toxic chemicals.
A brand that believes in product transparency over ‘green-washing’ and are real people on the other end of the phone and email. Click here to contact Organic Fiji.