anti fungal face wash

DIY TURMERIC & LEMON BRIGHTENING FACE MASK

With the colder months fast approaching, I thought it would be fun to kick off a beauty series to keep our skin glowing and hydrated all winter long. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing my favorite DIY face masks, scrubs, winter skincare tips, and more! For a glimpse into my daily routine, check out my Natural Vegan Skincare Routine.

Wouldn’t it be nice to keep that summer glow all year round? This DIY mask is not only brightening but also perfect for acne-prone skin (or any skin type!) while giving you a healthy, radiant complexion.

Now, a quick disclaimer: the vegan police might be after me for this one… While I don’t consume honey, I’ve always appreciated its medicinal properties for the skin, especially Manuka honey, which has endless healing benefits. I actually picked up a bottle of Manuka honey from Trader Joe’s over the summer without thinking much of it. But then I started feeling guilty, since vegans typically avoid honey. There’s a lot of debate within the vegan community about this, which I dive deeper into in my post about Plant-Based vs. Vegan. If you’re concerned, you can always swap out the honey for agave nectar to get that same sticky consistency!

Normally, I wouldn’t purchase products with honey, but I had this small bottle lying around, and instead of letting it go to waste, I’ve decided to use it for beauty purposes, like in this Brightening Turmeric DIY Face Mask.

A fun fact: Manuka honey comes from New Zealand, where bees feed on the nectar of the Tea Tree Plant. It’s the perfect addition to this mask for an extra glow boost!

THIS POTENT MANUKA HONEY IS ESPECIALLY GREAT FOR:

  • Healing acne and scarring
  • Fighting skin infections
  • Cleaning pores while naturally exfoliating
  • Helping skin retain moisture
  • Rejuvenating radiance and softness

NOT TO MENTION ITS:

  • Anti-bacterial properties
  • Anti-inflammatory effects
  • Anti-fungal qualities
  • High in antioxidants to protect the skin

What makes it even more special is its thicker consistency compared to regular honey, with a cloudy appearance. After soaking up some of this healing Manuka honey, my skin feels totally moisturized, balanced, and soft—it’s magical!

I’m no honey expert (I picked mine up from Trader Joe’s), but I know that higher-quality Manuka honey products are out there, like this one from Manuka Doctor, which has a higher UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) score, indicating more potency. You can really feel the difference with a higher UMF—it’s like a supercharged version of regular honey!

The next essential ingredient for this DIY face mask is turmeric – a true wonder spice, and not just for your curry recipes! This vibrant, golden powder is incredibly beautifying. I was inspired to include it in this mask from my Golden Glow Elixir Juice, which you all seemed to love as much as I did (plus, it’s great for boosting immunity during the winter months!).

Turmeric has been used for centuries in beauty rituals, especially by Indian brides who use turmeric body scrubs and masks before their weddings to achieve that head-to-toe glow. The spice is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to brighten and even out skin tone, while also giving you a luminous, radiant complexion. It’s like liquid gold for your skin!

BENEFITS OF TURMERIC:

Turmeric is a powerhouse when it comes to skincare, offering a range of benefits:

  • Reduces redness
  • Treats breakouts
  • Helps with age spots
  • Reduces scarring and hyperpigmentation
  • Helps to heal psoriasis and eczema
  • Brightens and tones
  • Anti-inflammatory properties

While fresh turmeric would be even better for this mask, I only had ground turmeric on hand, which still works wonders. Just a heads-up—turmeric is known to stain, so be sure to wear a shirt you don’t mind getting a little messy and dry your face with a dark towel. The turmeric will leave a slight yellow tint on your skin, but don’t worry! I usually wash my face with my regular sulfur soap once or twice after the mask, and the yellow tint disappears with no problem. Just a little heads-up to ensure you’re prepared!

Next up is fresh lemon juice! Lemon is packed with vitamin C, which is essential for brightening and evening out your skin tone. It’s also anti-bacterial, making it especially helpful for breakouts, while acting as a natural exfoliant to give your skin that healthy radiance. Lemon is also known to help fade acne scars over time, making it a great addition to this mask. Don’t worry though—this mask won’t sting like lemon juice sometimes does on its own! It actually feels soothing and balancing on the skin.

The final ingredient is oats, which are incredibly moisturizing, exfoliating, and softening. I blended my oats a bit in the food processor to make them finer, but you can also use oat flour if that’s easier. Just a heads-up, the mask can get a little messy depending on how finely ground your oats are, so be sure to apply it over the sink to make cleanup easier. The oats will help lock in moisture while gently sloughing off dead skin, leaving you with smooth, soft skin.

CONCLUSION

And there you have it—this Brightening Turmeric DIY Face Mask is the perfect way to keep your skin glowing and healthy throughout the colder months! With the power of Manuka honey, turmeric, fresh lemon juice, and oats, this mask works wonders to brighten, exfoliate, and heal your skin, all while leaving it soft, smooth, and balanced.

Whether you’re dealing with breakouts, acne scars, or just want to keep your skin glowing, this mask has got you covered. Plus, it’s natural, vegan (with the option to substitute for agave), and perfect for anyone looking for a simple yet effective skincare routine.

So, put on your favorite old shirt, get ready for a little mess, and treat your skin to some much-needed love and nourishment. Your skin will thank you, and you’ll be glowing all season long!

Let me know how you like it!

do face masks expire? Unmasking the Truth About Skincare Shelf Life

We get it – those bottles and jars of skincare products are your secret weapons for glowing skin. But here’s the thing: do skincare products expire? Well, it turns out they do, and knowing when to toss them out is crucial to keep that skin game strong. In this quick read, we’re going to spill the beans on skincare product shelf life, why they go bad, and how you can get the most bang for your beauty buck. So, grab your favorite face mask, kick back, and let’s chat about when it’s time to bid adieu to that old moisturizer or serum.

Understanding Skincare Product Shelf Life

Ingredients Matter

Skincare products are formulated with various active ingredients, including antioxidants, vitamins, and preservatives. The shelf life of a product is influenced by the stability of these ingredients. For example, products containing antioxidants like vitamin C may have a shorter shelf life because these ingredients can degrade over time when exposed to air and light.

Preservatives

Many skincare products contain preservatives to prevent bacterial and fungal growth. However, preservatives themselves may have a limited effectiveness window. The shelf life of a product can depend on the type and concentration of preservatives used.

Packaging

The way a skincare product is packaged plays a significant role in its shelf life. Products that come in airtight containers with pumps or droppers are less likely to be contaminated by air and bacteria, thus potentially extending their shelf life compared to products in jars or open containers.

Expiration Date

Most skincare products have an expiration date printed on their packaging. This date indicates when the product is expected to remain stable and effective if stored under appropriate conditions. It’s advisable to adhere to this date for optimal results.

Changes in Texture and Smell

Visual and sensory changes in skincare products can be indicators of expiration. If a product changes in color, texture, or smell, it may have gone bad and should be discarded, even if it’s within the stated shelf life.

Storage Conditions

Proper storage is essential. Store skincare products in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Exposure to heat and light can accelerate the degradation of active ingredients.

Water-Based vs. Oil-Based

Water-based products are generally more prone to bacterial growth, so they may have a shorter shelf life than oil-based products. Oil-based products tend to be more stable but can also go rancid over time.

Natural and Organic Products

Natural and organic skincare products may have shorter shelf lives compared to those containing synthetic ingredients. These products often have fewer or no preservatives, making them more susceptible to microbial contamination.

do face masks expire?

Yes, face masks, both disposable and reusable, can expire. The expiration date for face masks is typically printed on the packaging. This date indicates the recommended period during which the mask is expected to remain stable and effective for its intended use. Using a face mask that has expired may reduce its effectiveness in providing protection, especially if it’s designed to filter out particles or provide a barrier against contaminants.

It’s important to pay attention to the expiration date and not use face masks that have passed it. Over time, the materials, filtration capabilities, and structural integrity of the mask can degrade, potentially compromising its ability to provide the intended level of protection. To ensure your safety and the effectiveness of the mask, it’s advisable to replace expired face masks with fresh ones and properly dispose of the old ones.

HOW LONG DO FACE MASKS LAST?

Sheet Masks

Sheet masks are individually packaged and often contain a combination of water, preservatives, and active ingredients. They typically have a shelf life of about 1 to 2 years. Check the packaging for an expiration date.

Clay Masks

Clay masks, including bentonite and kaolin clay masks, have a longer shelf life, usually around 2 to 3 years. Keep the lid tightly closed to prevent drying.

Cream Masks

Cream-based masks are typically stable for 1 to 2 years. Be sure to store them in a cool, dry place and avoid contaminating the product with your fingers.

Gel Masks

Gel masks can last for about 2 to 3 years. As with cream masks, use a clean spatula or scoop to avoid introducing bacteria.

Exfoliating Masks

Masks with physical exfoliants like sugar or seeds may have a shorter shelf life of 6 to 12 months due to the risk of the exfoliants degrading over time. Chemical exfoliating masks with active ingredients like AHAs and BHAs may last longer, around 1 to 2 years.

DIY Masks

Homemade masks prepared with fresh ingredients like fruits, yogurt, or honey should be used immediately or refrigerated and used within a few days to prevent spoilage.

Hydrogel Masks

Hydrogel masks are typically stable for about 1 to 2 years. Ensure the packaging remains airtight to prevent drying.

Charcoal Masks

Charcoal masks may last 1 to 2 years. Store them away from moisture to prevent premature activation of the charcoal.

When an unopened sheet mask has passed its printed expiration date, it can likely be used safely for approximately six months beyond that date. However, once a sheet mask has been opened, it’s best to adhere to the expiration date specified on the packaging to ensure its efficacy and safety.

IS IT SAFE TO USE EXPIRED SHEET MASKS?

The expiration date on sheet mask packaging serves as a guideline for the product’s stability and effectiveness. While the ingredients in sheet masks are typically formulated to remain stable for a reasonable period, using an expired sheet mask can have uncertain outcomes. Over time, the mask’s active ingredients, preservatives, and the sheet itself can degrade, potentially leading to reduced efficacy or even skin irritation. Since sheet masks come into direct contact with your skin, using an expired one carries a higher risk of adverse reactions compared to some other skincare products. 

To ensure safety and optimal results, it’s best to adhere to the expiration date, and if you have doubts about the condition of a sheet mask, it’s advisable to discard it and opt for a fresh one. Your skin deserves the best care, and using expired products might not provide the desired benefits.

HOW SHOULD I STORE MY FACE MASKS?

Firstly, choose a clean and dry location for storage, as humidity can promote the growth of microorganisms. It’s also wise to keep your masks in airtight containers or resealable plastic bags, especially if you’re storing multiple masks or plan to keep them for an extended period. This extra layer of protection helps shield them from dust, contaminants, and moisture.

Another critical factor is to shield your masks from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can degrade the materials and elastic bands in masks, reducing their efficacy and durability. Instead, opt for a cool, shaded storage area that maintains a stable temperature. Additionally, consider designated storage spaces away from high-traffic areas to prevent contamination. 

It’s also a good practice to label masks with their expiration dates, ensuring you prioritize using those that are closer to expiration. Regularly inspect stored masks for wear and tear, discarding any damaged ones promptly.

FAQs

  1.  What happens if I use an expired face mask? Using an expired face mask can result in reduced efficacy. The mask’s materials, filtration, and structural integrity may degrade over time, potentially compromising its ability to provide adequate protection.
  2. Can I use a face mask past its expiration date if it’s unopened? Unopened face masks can often be used safely for a limited time (usually a few months) after the printed expiration date. However, it’s essential to inspect the mask for any visible signs of wear or contamination before use.
  3. How can I tell if a face mask is expired? Check for the expiration date printed on the packaging. Additionally, inspect the mask for any changes in color, texture, or smell. If the mask looks or smells different than when it was new, it’s best to discard it.
  4. Are there different expiration guidelines for various types of face masks? Yes, different types of face masks, such as surgical masks, N95 respirators, and cloth masks, may have varying shelf lives. The materials, construction, and intended use of the mask can influence its shelf life.
  5. How can I extend the shelf life of my face masks? To maximize the shelf life of face masks, store them in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Keep them in their original packaging or resealable plastic bags to protect them from contaminants.
  6. Can I still use a cloth face mask that has passed its expiration date? Cloth face masks may not have a specific expiration date like disposable masks, but they can degrade over time with frequent washing and wear. If your cloth mask shows signs of wear, such as thinning fabric or damaged elastic, it’s advisable to replace it.
  7. Is it safe to use homemade or DIY face masks that have expired ingredients? Homemade masks with expired ingredients, such as yogurt or fruits, may not provide the desired benefits and could potentially irritate the skin. It’s generally best to use fresh ingredients for DIY masks or opt for commercially manufactured ones with longer shelf lives.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, understanding the expiration of face masks is vital for ensuring their efficacy and safety. While many face masks come with expiration dates, it’s crucial to inspect masks for any visible changes in color, texture, or smell, as these can indicate spoilage even if the date hasn’t passed. Unopened masks can often be used for a limited time beyond the printed expiration date, but it’s essential to exercise caution and common sense. Proper storage, including protection from moisture and direct sunlight, plays a significant role in prolonging the shelf life of face masks.

Whether you’re using surgical masks, cloth masks, or disposable masks, following the manufacturer’s recommendations and regularly inspecting your masks for wear and tear are key practices to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your protective gear. With these guidelines in mind, you can make informed decisions about the use and replacement of face masks, promoting your well-being and that of those around you.