This DIY Face Mask is the secret to great skin. With simple ingredients like bentonite clay, charcoal, and water, this natural face mask recipe will give you that youthful appearance you’ve been searching for!
Many of us are familiar with detoxing our bodies, but what about our skin?
Our skin is the largest organ of the body. It has the ability to absorb much of what we put on it each day. Which can be a good thing or a bad thing.
It’s good in that we can easily nourish the body via skin absorption. For example, applying a Homemade Magnesium Cream will help boost the body’s store of magnesium. This is an excellent method of supplementation in addition to (or, in some cases, instead of) the diet.
But, since the skin is capable of absorbing whatever is placed on it, detoxing can also impact the body (and the condition of our skin) negatively. We may experience issues such as clogged pores or acne.
Detoxing the skin is not a one-time event but more of an ongoing process. In truth, one could probably never say the skin is completely “detoxed” since it is exposed to new things every day. (Kind of like doing laundry! It’s done for approximately 12 seconds, and then something else goes in the dirty clothes hamper!)
Some of the best practices for good skincare include:
- drinking sufficient water (hydration is key!)
- eating real food, especially vegetables
- getting enough Omega 3s
- cleansing, toning, and moisturizing before bed
- not over washing (this can lead to dry, stripped skin)
In addition to these, applying a DIY face mask regularly can also be beneficial. Facial masks help draw out impurities and tighten and tone the skin.
Even though it’s quite simple to make face masks from ingredients you likely have on hand, such as this Avocado and Honey DIY Face Mask, today I’m going to share a recipe that’s just as easy, but uses two specialty ingredients (don’t worry, that aren’t very expensive and have other uses too!).
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS DIY FACE MASK
Natural Ingredients
Making this mask yourself allows you to control the ingredients you put into it, resulting in no harsh chemicals or free radicals that can seep into your skin.
Customizable
Because there are only 3 ingredients in this homemade face mask, you can add a new ingredient or two to boost the skin benefits. For example, you can add plain yogurt or raw honey if you have dry skin. If you have dull skin, you can add turmeric and lemon juice!
Affordable
Bentonite clay and activated charcoal are relatively inexpensive and will last you a long time, meaning you can make a ton of homemade face masks for cheap!
EASIEST HOMEMADE FACE MASK
1. Bentonite Clay
While many different types of clay are suitable for DIY face masks (see them all here), bentonite clay is one of my favorites because of its ability to draw out toxins, making it perfect for acne-prone skin!
It is one of the least expensive clays and is suitable for normal to oily skin. If you have dry skin, you may wish to replace this with Kaolin clay (see this post for details on which clays are suitable for specific skin types).
Bentonite clay can also be used in baths and taken internally. See all the benefits (and uses) of bentonite clay here.
2. Activated Charcoal
You’ve probably heard that activated charcoal is useful in absorbing toxins or drugs from the stomach. I always keep some on hand in case of an upset stomach.
Make these Homemade Gummies to help with those stomach bugs!
These same absorption properties come into play when activated charcoal is applied to the skin. It has the ability to draw out toxins, effectively removing them.
3. Water or Chamomile Tea
When making this mask, you will only need a little liquid. Just enough to make a paste. Water works just fine, but a little cooled chamomile tea is always nice as it soothes and calms the skin. Chamomile is a great natural option for decreasing stress and enhancing beauty.
DIY FACE MASK RECIPE
- 2 tsp of bentonite clay
- ½ tsp activated charcoal (approximately 2 capsules)
- 2-3 tsp of water or cooled Chamomile tea
You will also need a non-metal bowl and stirring utensil to create this mask (metal reacts with bentonite clay). A glass bowl and a small wooden spoon will work (but don’t use a “special” spoon as it may become stained).
HOW TO MAKE FACE MASKS
Step 1: Open two capsules of activated charcoal and pour into a small dish (this should make approximately ½ tsp).
Step 2: Add 2 tsp Bentonite clay and stir to combine.
Step 3: Add enough water or tea to make a paste. You will need very little (about 2-3 tsp).
HOW TO USE HOMEMADE FACE MASKS
Step 1: Carefully apply the paste to your face, avoiding the eyes. (Use clean fingers or a small brush.)
Step 2: Leave the mask on for 5 minutes, then rinse off with warm water and a washcloth. Scrub gently in a circular motion to remove dead skin cells.
Step 3: Follow with a nourishing Moisturizer or Face Serum. Plain aloe vera, coconut oil, or olive oil is a great option, too.
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
It is normal to feel a tightening of the skin as the mask dries, but if your face feels itchy or you experience any skin irritation, remove the mask immediately.
Please note that activated charcoal has a tendency to stain anything it touches. It’s best to wear an old shirt when applying this mask and use a washcloth you are not overly fond of when removing.
ADDITIONAL DIY FACE MASK RECIPE NOTES
- This detox face mask can be used once a week if desired.
- Make this mask in bulk, or give it as a gift by following these instructions.
- If you’d like more DIY face mask recipes, this ebook, DIY Face Masks and Scrubs, is a great resource.
MORE HOMEMADE FACE MASK IDEAS
I haven’t tried all these homemade face mask ideas myself, but similar to Homemade Conditioner, you can find a LOT of nourishing skincare ingredients in your own kitchen. Mix and match any of these ingredients to create your own home spa experience.
- Aloe vera gel
- Plain Greek yogurt
- Cocoa powder
- Ground coffee (great for exfoliation!)
- Egg yolks
- Cucumber slices
- Oatmeal
- Mash banana
- Honey
- Turmeric powder
- Green tea
- Apple cider vinegar
- Avocado mask
FAQs ABOUT DIY FACE MASKS
What are the benefits of using bentonite clay and activated charcoal in a DIY face mask?
Bentonite clay is known for its antioxidant properties. It helps draw out impurities, excess oil, and toxins from the skin, leaving it feeling clean and refreshed. Activated charcoal, on the other hand, acts like a magnet, absorbing dirt, bacteria, and other impurities from the pores, promoting a clearer complexion and supple skin.
Can this face mask be used for all skin types?
This DIY face mask is generally suitable for most skin types. However, individuals with dry or sensitive skin may find it too drying. It’s always a good idea to do a patch test before applying the mask to your face and observe how your skin reacts. If you experience any irritated skin or discomfort, discontinue use. Personally, I have acne prone skin and this type of mask works wonders.
Can I customize this face mask with additional ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment and customize the mask to target specific skin concerns. You can add a few drops of your favorite essential oil, like tea tree oil or lavender oil, for added benefits. Just make sure that the additional ingredients are safe for your skin and suitable for your specific concerns.
How should I store any leftover mask mixture?
It’s best to prepare this homemade face mask fresh each time you use it to maintain its effectiveness. Bentonite clay and activated charcoal can absorb moisture from the air, so storing the mixture may alter its consistency and potency.
DIY Face Mask
Whether you want to get that nice natural glow or level up your skin routine, this DIY Face Mask will do the trick! With fresh ingredients like bentonite clay and activated charcoal, your skin will be left feeling soft and healthy. Who says you need to break the bank to enjoy beautiful skin? If you try this face mask, let me know how it goes in the comments!
MORE SKINCARE RECIPES
- Homemade Face Serum (With Essential Oils)
- DIY: Homemade Face Wash
- How to Detox Your Armpits
- Homemade Tinted Moisturizer
What would happen if I used olive or coconut oil in place of water for the mask and use in the bath?
Vernon,
We haven’t tried that, but let us know how it goes if you do. Thanks for the comment. 🙂
When making this mask in bulk it would be 1 part activated charcoal to 3 parts clay?
Close! It would be 1 part charcoal 4 parts clay.