No matter how much you squeeze and tweeze, those stubborn blackheads just never seem to go away. Blackheads are a sign that your pores are clogged; so the best way to go about removing them is by deep cleansing to get rid of dirt, dead skin cells, oil and other pollutants blocking the pores. This DIY blackhead mask is simple, all-natural and costs only pennies and a few minutes to make.
Benefits of Using Natural Products on the Skin
Cucumber Pulp
Cucumbers have long been associated with pampering, usually in the form of placing slices over the eyes at a spa. Cucumber pulp contains large amounts of water, so it is cooling and hydrating to the skin. It’s full of absorbic acid (vitamin c), which can soothe skin irritations and reduce swelling and puffiness.
Plain Yogurt
The high amounts of lactic acid in yogurt allow it to minimize pores, reduce dead skin, and remove fine lines and wrinkles. Yogurt is also known to fade blemishes and dark circles as well as fighting acne.
Oatmeal
A common treatment for many ailments associated with the skin, it’s not surprising oatmeal is a great addition to any natural skin product. Oatmeal contains saponins that help to remove dirt from the pores, as well as being anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Oatmeal also contains a high level of fat, leaving the skin more moisturized.
Organic Honey
Honey is great for the skin due to its antibacterial constituents, which help to remove dirt and toxins from the skin and pores.Honey is full of antioxidants that promote younger looing skin, and it’s a humectant, leaving the skin more moisturized and glowing.
Essential oils
Essential oils are a wonderful way to promote natural glowing skin, and there are many that effectively reduce, remove and prevent blackheads. The best oils to use for blackheads are oils with antiseptic properties to clean the pores thoroughly, and oils with astringent properties such as tea tree, eucalyptus, lavender, cedarwood, lemon (and other citrus oils) to decrease oiliness and minimize pores. Lavender also has a sedative effect, which can promote relaxation and help to de-stress. Lavender smells great when blended with eucalyptus or tea tree, and cedarwood makes a nice combination with any citrus oil.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup cucumber pulp
- 1/4 cup oatmeal
- 1/8 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp. organic honey
- 10-15 drops of essential oils of your choice
- 1 small bowl and spoon to mix the ingredients
Directions:
- Mix the cucumber pulp and yogurt until combined.
- Add the honey and oatmeal and mix until the mask forms a thick paste.
- Add 10-15 drops of essential oils and mix thoroughly.
- Place the mixture into the refrigerator for ten to fifteen minutes and to allow it to cool and thicken.
- Using your fingers or a medium sized paintbrush, apply the mask to the blackhead and acne prone areas of your face.
- Leave the mask for 15-20 minutes and then rinse with warm water.
To keep your skin healthy and glowing, apply this mask as often as once a week to really get rid of those pesky blackheads and keep your pores small. For best results, always apply a natural toner such as witch hazel or rose water after removing the mask to minimize pores, followed by a natural moisturizer. This mask can be made in advance and kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a month until ready for use. Always make sure to do a patch test before applying any essential oils or natural products to check for any skin sensitivities.