My kids are used to seeing me with weird colored stuff painted on my face now. Homemade face masks like this one probiotic yogurt face masks are excellent for moisturizing and nourishing the skin. The only drawback is that it must be used immediately. However, this seaweed face mask can be stored as a powder and mixed as needed to add to your skin care routine.
It's full of antioxidants and superfood ingredients that help draw out impurities from the skin. A seaweed face mask also boosts collagen to help reduce the appearance of fine lines. Who cares if you look like the Hulk with it!
Seaweed Face Mask Ingredients
This mask contains kelp and spirulina seaweed powders. I've also added some French green clay (also known as sea clay) for its cleansing benefits. Plus, the clay fits the green theme. You can also add some essential oils for added benefits and to help enhance the aroma. Since it's a seaweed mask, it might smell a little fishy!
French green clay
French green clay was originally mined in France and originates from ancient layers of clay under the sea. This makes it a rich source of nutrients. It is often used in face masks for its cleansing and exfoliating properties. If you have a normal, combination or more oily skin type, then it is a great choice.
This clay gets its green color from kelp, algae and iron oxides, depending on where it is mined. It is also full of minerals like calcium, potassium and magnesium. French green clay is purifying and is even used to remove lead and heavy metals from wastewater. This mud is also great for acne-prone skin because of its astringent and blemish-fighting antibacterial properties.
If you have more sensitive skin or dry skin, then you'll want to add some oil to your clay face mask. Another option is to swap it out for kaolin clay which is great for drier skin. And you can always follow up your face mask with some homemade lotion for extra hydration.
Spirulina and kelp powder
That's what makes this seaweed face mask. Spirulina is one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet and is even used by astronauts on space missions. It is rich in protein, iron and antioxidants that reduce inflammation. While technically not a plant (it was recently reclassified as bacteria), spirulina comes from single-celled algae.
Kelp powder is another superfood ingredient in this mask. It is rich in vitamins K, A and B-12, plus calcium, iron, iodine and magnesium. You'll also find over 70 trace minerals in algae like kelp. Kelp also has antioxidants to help reduce redness and protect against skin damage. Plus it is an excellent skin moisturizer.
Customizing your face mask
Since seaweed has such a broad spectrum of nutrients and minerals, it mixes well with oil- and water-based ingredients. However, as you probably learned in high school science class, oil and water don't mix. This is not a bad thing although it gives us opportunities.
If your skin needs a little more moisture, then choose a carrier oil or even plain yogurt for the seaweed face mask. You can also use aloe vera gel, hydrosol or plain water. Adding a little glycerin to the juice is also good for the skin. If you're new to hydrosols, here are some different options and what they do for the skin. Hydrosols are the liquid left over from the distillation of essential oils (and they make a great tonic!).
- Rose hydrosol – Fights signs of aging and restores skin tone.
- Tea tree hydrosol – Soothes redness, irritation and fights blemishes. Restores damaged skin.
- Helichrysum hydrosol – Cleanses and balances the skin, as well as reduces swelling and inflammation. Promotes skin healing.
- Hydrosol of lavender – Soothing for both skin and mood. It helps all types of skin irritations from redness and itching to irritations and blemishes.
- Calendula hydrosol – Calendula Hydrosol is a good general option for any skin irritation or inflammation.
Essential oils
These are optional, but they help enhance the flavor and add more skin benefits. Some good choices include:
DIY Seaweed Face Mask
This rich and nourishing face mask helps improve skin tone and can be tailored to your skin type.
Yield: 12 face mask
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Mix the kelp powder, clay and spirulina together in a small glass jar. This dry mixture will keep for several years if stored away from light and heat.
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To make the mask add 1 teaspoon of dry mixture to a small bowl and add about 2 and 1/2 teaspoons of liquid. You want it to be thin enough to spread on your skin, but not so thin that it drips.
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If desired, add 1-2 drops of essential oils.
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Apply an even layer on the face and leave it on for 15-20 minutes.
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Wash off the mask with warm water.
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Follow with your favorite moisturizer if needed.
Dry powder lasts for several years if kept away from moisture and heat. After mixing with liquid, the mask should be used immediately.
More recipes for face masks
Here are some more face mask recipes to pamper your skin!
Have you ever used seaweed on your skin before? Want to try it? Leave a comment and let us know!
