Facial Mask Recipe for Acne Prone Skin

Honey has antibacterial properties.

You can find ingredients at home that may help to fight bacteria that cause acne. Many fruits and vegetables contain active ingredients that may decrease oil production, exfoliate skin, clean pores, and tighten open pores. Ingredients that have astringent properties work well on acne-prone skin. Try these masks for clearer skin without spending money on expensive over-the-counter treatments. Many at-home acne masks may cost less than acne treatments available at your drugstore.

Things You'll Need

• Aspirin
• Filtered water
• Green mineral clay
• Essential oil
• Vegetable glycerin
• Rosemary sprig
• Banana
• Honey
• Lemon
• Apple

Instructions

Aspirin Face Mask

1. 

   Aspirin contains salicylic acid, an active ingedient used in topical acne medications.

   Dissolve three or four aspirin tablets in a short glass with a few drops of filtered cold water. Add a few more drops of water if needed until the aspirin forms a white paste.

2. Apply the paste to your face on affected areas. Apply only to cleansed skin. Leave on for at least 15 minutes. Rinse off with warm water or a washcloth soaked in warm water.

3. Add aloe gel to the paste for another version of this mask. Cut back on the amount of water to make the paste and include a few drops of aloe gel. The enzymes found in aloe vera help to reduce excessive inflammation and redness, which may help in the treatment of acne. Apply the mask to affected spots and wash off after 30 minutes.

Clay Mask

1. 

   Clay helps to draw out impurities from pores.

   Mix 1 oz. green clay with 3 tbsp. distilled water, according to Essential Oil Recipes. Add 1 tsp. vegetable glycerin, and a mixture of essential oils. You can add 1 drop of geranium, grapefruit and/or juniper essential oils.

2. Cleanse the skin. Combine this treatment with steam. Pour 3 cups of boiling water over rosemary to release the herb's natural oils and aromatics. Use a towel to keep in the steam, and sit over the bowl for five to eight minutes. This steam will open and cleanse your pores without drying.

3. Gently apply the clay mixture to your face using a soft-bristled paintbrush. Spread the mixture over your face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Allow the mask to dry for 15 minutes. Wash the mask off with warm water.

Fruit Mask

1. Mash a ripe banana. Mix it with 1 tbsp. of honey and the juice of one lemon.

2. 

   Apples are not only good for your insides, but also may help to give your skin a healthy glow.

   Apply to your face for 15 minutes. Wash off with a warm washcloth. Afterward, splash your face with cold water to close the pores again.

3. Make a similar mask with grated apple. Grate an apple, adding 1 tbsp. of honey. Mix into a paste, according to Acne Help. Apply to your face and leave on for 10 to 20 minutes. Carefully wash off the mask.

Tips & Warnings

• Have ingredients handy and measured before mixing with your hands. Some ingredients may be sticky and can make a mess. Apply the mask in your kitchen or bathroom for easier cleanup.

• Consult with your dermatologist on the best acne treatment for your skin.

References

• Essential Oil: Facial Clay Mask
• Acne Help: Acne Face Masks