should you wash your face after a mask

DIY SEAWEED & CUCUMBER FACE MASK

Face masks are a fun and effective way to pamper your skin, and this Seaweed and Cucumber Face Mask is packed with skin-loving ingredients that work for a variety of skin types. The mask is made by emulsifying oils with water and adding a blend of dry ingredients like sea clay and spirulina powder.

The oils used in this mask were selected for their light texture and nourishing properties. Cucumber seed oil is a fantastic moisturizer that absorbs quickly into the skin, while the seaweed extract is infused in fractionated coconut oil, which is also light and hydrating. Together, they leave your skin feeling refreshed, moisturized, and non-greasy.

This seaweed extract is part of the new Seascape Collection, which includes an array of fragrance oils, exfoliants, powders, and more.

The combination of kaolin clay and sea clay creates a thick yet spreadable texture that isn’t overly drying, making this mask perfect for normal to combination skin. If you have dry skin, you can reduce the amount of clay, similar to the DIY Lavender Clay Face Mask, while those with oily skin might benefit from increasing the clay content, as shown in the DIY Sea Clay Mask.

Spirulina powder adds both color and skin benefits, packed with vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants. Its deep green hue gives the mask a beautiful color, though keep in mind that spirulina does have a fishy odor, which the ginger essential oil in this recipe helps to mask.

Substitutions & Notes:

  • Polawax Emulsifying Wax is used here for a smooth, reliable emulsion. You can substitute it with a generic emulsifying wax, though this recipe wasn’t tested with it.
  • Oils: Avocado and cucumber seed oils are chosen for their lightweight, hydrating qualities, but you can substitute other liquid oils that absorb easily into the skin. Altering the oil amount will affect the texture of the mask.
  • Preservative: Since this recipe contains water and is essentially a lotion, a preservative like Optiphen is necessary to prevent mold and bacteria. Alternatives like Phenonip will also work.
  • Clay: Adjust the amount of clay based on your skin type. More clay is better for oily skin, and less is ideal for dry skin, though this will make the product thinner.
  • Clay Variety: You can swap clays based on your preferences. Different clays absorb differently, which will affect the mask’s feel on the skin.
  • Fragrance & Essential Oils: If you have sensitive skin, it’s best to omit these, as they may cause irritation.
  • Seaweed Extract: Feel free to replace with a different extract of your choice.

What You’ll Need:

Four 8 oz. Bail Jars 
21.4 oz. Distilled Water
1 oz. Cucumber Seed Oil
1.3 oz. Avocado Oil
1 oz. Polawax Emulsifying Wax
0.8 oz. BTMS-50 Conditioning Emulsifier
5 oz. Kaolin Clay
2 oz. Sea Clay
0.4 oz. Spirulina Powder
3 mL Ginger Essential Oil
0.5 oz. Seaweed Extract
0.2 oz. Optiphen

Equipment Preparation:

Before beginning, ensure all equipment is disinfected to keep your mask free from germs and bacteria. Prepare a 5% bleach water solution and dip all utensils—mixing containers, stick blender, spoons, and spatulas—allowing them to air dry completely before use.

Instructions:

Step 1: In a medium-sized container, measure out:

  • 5 ounces of kaolin clay
  • 2 ounces of sea clay
  • 0.4 ounces of spirulina powder

Mix the clays and spirulina powder thoroughly until fully combined.

Step 2: In a heat-safe container, combine the following ingredients:

  • 1.3 ounces of avocado oil
  • 1 ounce of cucumber seed oil
  • 0.8 ounces of BTMS-50
  • 1 ounce of Polawax

Heat the container in the microwave in 30-60 second bursts, stirring in between, until the waxes are fully melted. Be cautious when removing the container, as it will be very hot. Once melted, set the container aside.

Step 3: In a separate large container, heat 21.4 ounces of distilled water in the microwave (or on the stovetop) until it reaches about 160-170°F. If some water evaporates, remeasure and add more distilled water as needed to ensure you have the correct amount.

Step 4: Once the water has reached the correct temperature, check the temperatures of both the water and the oil-wax mixture. Both should be around 160°F. If the oil and wax mixture has cooled, reheat it in the microwave. Next, submerge the stick blender into the water and burp it to release any air bubbles.

Pour the oil and wax mixture into the hot water, using a spatula to scrape out every bit. Start pulsing the stick blender. As the ingredients begin to emulsify, the mixture will turn a milky white. Continue pulsing and stirring for about a minute to fully combine.

Step 5: Gradually add heaping spoonfuls of the clay mixture to the emulsified water and oil blend. Use the stick blender to pulse and blend until the clay is fully incorporated and the mixture reaches a smooth, thick consistency. Continue blending until the mask is well-combined and free of lumps.

Step 6: Continue stick blending the mixture for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring it stays smooth and well-incorporated. Use a spatula to scrape down any clay that may have stuck to the sides of the bowl.

Check the temperature of the mixture. Once it has cooled to about 130-140°F, add the following ingredients:

  • 0.2 ounces of Optiphen preservative
  • 3 mL of ginger essential oil
  • 0.5 ounces of seaweed extract

Stick blend again, remembering to burp the stick blender to release any air bubbles. Continue blending until all the ingredients are fully combined.

Step 7: Carefully pour the finished mixture into your bail jars or preferred containers. Tap the jars gently on the counter to help release any air bubbles. Alternatively, you can spritz the surface with alcohol to further eliminate bubbles.

Leave the lids off and allow the containers to cool for several hours to prevent condensation from forming inside the jars. Once fully cooled, you can secure the lids.

Once fully cooled, the mixture will have a thick, lotion-like texture. To use, apply a medium layer of the mask to clean, dry skin, avoiding the immediate eye area. Allow the mask to sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the ingredients to work their magic.

After 15 minutes, rinse off the mask with warm water. There’s no need to wash your face afterward, but you can do so if you prefer. Enjoy the refreshed, hydrated feel of your skin!

CONCLUSION

This DIY Seaweed & Cucumber Face Mask is a nourishing and effective way to pamper your skin with natural ingredients. The combination of sea clay, kaolin clay, spirulina powder, and hydrating oils leaves your skin feeling refreshed, smooth, and deeply moisturized. With customizable options to suit different skin types and simple, straightforward steps, this mask is a great addition to your skincare routine. Enjoy the process of making it yourself and the glowing results afterward!

45 BEST CURLY HAIR COLOR IDEAS

The right hair color can dramatically enhance the beauty of your curls, boosting your confidence. However, choosing wisely is key. Factors like skin tone, eye color, and natural hair texture play a crucial role in selecting the perfect shade. This article presents 45 inspiring curly hair color ideas to help you find the ideal hue and technique to match your unique style.

IS IT OKAY TO DYE CURLY HAIR?

Dyeing curly hair is indeed possible without compromising its unique texture, but it requires a careful approach. Curly hair often demands specific care, and coloring can introduce additional challenges. To achieve optimal results and minimize damage, consulting with an experienced colorist is crucial. They possess the expertise to assess your hair’s specific needs and recommend suitable colors and techniques. 

OUR TOP PICKS

CHAMPAGNE ROSE

Whether you’re embracing your natural curls or styling them to perfection, elevate your ringlets with a shimmering champagne hue. The new Redken Shades EQ Gold Rose Hair Gloss in 010GRo Sparkling Wine adds a subtle rose-gold shimmer to lightened or blonde hair, creating a luxurious and iridescent effect. Consult your stylist to achieve this stunning, champagne-inspired look.

BROWN ROSE

Brown rose is a versatile shade that complements a wide range of complexions. This particular brunette rose hue, infused with subtle golden undertones, is especially flattering for those with darker skin tones. It creates a warm and harmonious contrast, enhancing the natural radiance of the skin.

RED HOT

Contrary to the notion that curly hair can’t participate in trendy cuts, the curly wolf cut is a prime example of how to embrace curls in modern styling. With its layered texture and shape, this cut enhances natural curl patterns while allowing for personalized styling. The addition of a carefully crafted curly bang beautifully frames the face, proving that curly hair can be both fashionable and flattering.

DARK AUBURN

Imagine the intensity of fire engine red colliding with the warmth of brown. The result is a fiery auburn hue, a captivating blend of passion and earthiness. This color combination is so vibrant and compelling, it’s almost too much to bear.

CREAMY GOLDEN BLONDE

A harmonious blend of cool, beige, and golden tones creates a luminous look that effortlessly enhances your complexion. This brightened palette adds captivating depth and dimension to your twists, making them a standout feature.

GINGERBREAD HIGHLIGHTS

Forget the notion that gingerbread hair is reserved for the holiday season. This brunette base infused with warm, reddish ginger tones offers a year-round glow, transforming your mane into a captivating blend of depth and radiance.

PURPLE

Fantasy hair doesn’t always have to be loud and bright. If you’re hesitant about colors appearing too artificial, a deep purple might be perfect. It’s so dark it can easily be mistaken for black, but with a magical transformation in sunlight, revealing its enchanting undertones.

LILAC BLONDE

If you’re drawn to this enchanting hue but hesitant to commit to a permanent change, consider a temporary option like Biolage Professional Color Balm in Lavender. Perfect for those with light hair, this color depositing conditioner offers a subtle lilac tint without the long-term commitment, allowing you to experiment with this beloved shade.

PERIWINKLE

Channel your inner rebel princess with the emerging pastel purple-blue hue. This dreamy shade takes on a whimsical yet edgy character when paired with violet accents, creating a look that’s both playful and bold.

PASTEL RAINBOW

Yearning for a dash of whimsy? Pastel rainbow hair might be your perfect match. These ethereal hues can fade fast, but don’t let that dampen your spirits. Incorporate a system like Matrix Total Results Keep Me Vivid Shampoo and Conditioner into your routine to safeguard your vibrant color and let your pastel dreams last.

BLOODY MARY

Bloody Mary hair is a daring new trend that blends earthy and spicy tones for a truly unique look. This edgy style is perfect for those who aren’t afraid to make a statement, and we’re particularly obsessed with the bold contrast created by color-blocking the bangs. 

PURE GOLD

Golden pigments have a unique ability to enhance the warmth of medium to olive skin tones, creating a radiant complexion. Pureology Color Fanatic Top Coat + Tone Gold is the perfect solution to maintain your salon-fresh golden hair color between appointments. This revitalizing formula refreshes your golden hues for up to six washes, ensuring your hair continues to shine with luxurious warmth.

SUNFLOWER BALAYAGE

This balayage beautifully showcases the complementary nature of warm and cool blonde tones. Golden hues flatteringly frame the face, while cooler shades at the ends add a radiant touch that requires minimal upkeep compared to root maintenance.

COPPER MOCHA

Craving a captivating reddish-brown hue? Imagine a blend of fiery red, warm copper, and rich mocha – a truly unique color combination. To achieve this stunning look, ask your stylist to expertly mix Matrix Coil Color in shades 7M, 6CC, and 6RR. This harmonious trio will create a multi-dimensional, reddish-brown color that’s as beautiful as it is distinctive.

JET BLACK

Jet black hair doesn’t need color to shine. Unleash your curls’ full potential with L’Oréal Professionnel Serie Expert Curl Expression Definition Activator Gel. This hydrating formula effortlessly defines and revitalizes your spirals, banishing frizz and leaving them bouncy and full of life.

GINGER

Those blessed with natural ginger hair have always been the envy of many, but now, achieving a fiery mane is easier than ever. Ginger hair has surged in popularity, with even the biggest names in Hollywood embracing the trend. Whether you’re born with it or not, there’s no denying the allure of this vibrant hair color.

PLATINUM

Platinum hair color is elevated to a dazzling new level when paired with the edgy precision of a pixie cut and the carefree allure of tousled ringlets. This striking combination creates a bold and unforgettable look that effortlessly commands attention.

WHITE

White hair offers a luminous, natural beauty that’s a far cry from its platinum predecessor. To preserve its cool tones, combat brassiness with a purple shampoo like Kérastase Blond Absolu Bain Ultra Violet. This essential product will help maintain your white hair looking its pristine best.

BLUE AND GREEN

Embrace your inner mermaid with a mesmerizing blend of blue and green curls. This ethereal color palette is particularly stunning on curly hair, as the cascading ringlets mimic the fluid motion of ocean waves, creating a truly enchanting look.

TURQUOISE

For a bolder aquatic mermaid look, consider a deep turquoise hue. This darker shade, combined with your natural hair, creates a stunning contrast and adds a touch of mystery to the classic mermaid style.

HONEY BLONDE

Honey blonde hair is as sweet and dreamy as a morning tea with honey. Enhance this natural beauty with Matrix’s A Curl Can Dream Light-Hold Gel. Infused with manuka honey, this gel defines your curls and coils without the crunch, leaving them soft and supple.

SILVER

Gray hair is inevitable, but you can make the transition smoother with a little help. Consider letting your natural grays shine through with a silver dye or subtle silver highlights. A colorist can expertly blend your grays for a stylish and effortless look.

STRAWBERRY BLONDE

Tired of the same old red or blonde? Strawberry blonde could be your perfect compromise. This fresh hair color offers a subtle change for redheads, blending warm golden tones with hints of red for a vibrant yet understated look.

SUNNY YELLOW

Illuminate your world with this vibrant shade of yellow. Known to evoke the warmth and energy of sunshine, this color has the power to uplift your spirits and boost your mood. A little sunshine can go a long way.

PEACH

Peachy pink is a flirty shade that flatters fair-to-light skin tones. Its practicality lies in its resilience: even when faded or washed out, peach still looks effortlessly chic.

MAUVE HIGHLIGHTS

Mauve, a captivating blend of natural and fantasy, is a versatile choice for curly hair. To enhance your complexion, ask your colorist to concentrate the mauve shade around your face, allowing it to illuminate your skin tone.

ESPRESSO

Espresso hair color is a sophisticated blend of black and dark brown, creating a neutral, high-shine tone that’s far from dull. Enhance your hair’s luster with Redken’s Shine Flash Hairspray for an even more dazzling finish.

SMOKED OUT ROOTS

Smoked out roots create a seamless transition between your natural hair color and the dyed ends, minimizing the appearance of regrowth. This low-maintenance technique extends the time between salon visits, allowing your hair color to fade gracefully.

SUN-KISSED GREIGE

Imagine a sun-kissed masterpiece on curly or coily hair. A cool, sophisticated blend of gray and beige is infused with shimmering gold, creating an iridescent effect that’s both modern and enchanting.

GEMINI HAIR

Can’t decide on just one hair color? Half-and-half hair, also known as Gemini hair, is the perfect solution. This trendy dual-toned look lets you embrace two sides of your personality or simply enjoy the thrill of trying out different hair colors without commitment.

DEEP RUST

We typically avoid anything rusty, from forgotten nails to stagnant relationships. Yet, the vibrant electric rusty red hair color defies this aversion. It’s a bold, unexpected choice that commands attention, proving that sometimes, a little rust can be strikingly beautiful.

SUPER-FINE STREAKS

Whether you prefer bold, chunky highlights or a more subtle look, there’s a highlighting option for you. Fine, delicate streaks can add dimension to curly hair and strategically placed highlights can also help to disguise gray hairs.

SPICY CURRY

Transform your deep brunette curls into a vibrant masterpiece with a dash of daring. Introduce chunky highlights infused with warm curry tones, adding depth, dimension, and a touch of fiery elegance to your natural base.

GOLDEN SUNRISE

Achieve a stunning “Golden Sunrise” hair color by blending warm and cool golden tones for a sun-kissed ombre effect. This dimensional look is beautifully showcased when styled in shoulder-length layers, maintaining depth and richness.

ENGLISH TOFFEE

Toffee hair color is a stunning choice for those with lighter eye colors. To maximize its impact, use toffee as an accent rather than an all-over shade. This strategic approach will create a voluminous, eye-catching look that highlights your natural features.

CHOCOLATE ALMOND

Indulge in the rich allure of chocolate brown hair elevated by subtle streaks of creamy almond. This decadent combination offers a modern twist on a timeless look, making it a luxurious and effortless transition for brunettes seeking a fresh hair color experience.

HONEYCOMB

Want a sweeter look? Try honey-hued highlights to brighten dark curls and create the illusion of fuller hair. Biolage Professional Volume Bloom Shampoo is a lightweight option that adds natural volume and shine without damaging your hair.

CHESTNUT

Chestnut hair color is trending. Embrace the rich, reddish-brown shade for a full-headed transformation or subtly enhance your brunette base with chestnut streaks. This versatile hue adds warmth and depth to any hair color.

COPPER BRONZE

Copper and bronze hair colors complement each other, creating a bold and warm look. To maintain the vibrancy of your copper hair and prevent unwanted brassiness, consider incorporating a toning hair mask like Matrix Total Results Brass Off Custom Neutralization Hair Mask into your hair care routine.

GOLD-FOILED

Turn heads with a metallic hair look. Achieve the perfect base for your style with a strong-hold product like Mizani True Textures Sleek Holding Gel. It locks your hair in place, ensuring your metallic masterpiece stays flawless all day.

MAROON

Maroon hair color is a popular choice for those seeking a vibrant yet professional look. This bold shade is perfect for the office, striking a balance between trendy and sophisticated. If your hair is naturally lighter, your colorist might need to darken your base first to achieve the desired rich maroon tone.

CHERRY COLA

Cherry cola hair color, a nostalgic blend of brown, violet, and red, is making a comeback. This versatile shade is perfect for year-round wear and offers a subtle, bleach-free way for dark-haired individuals to lighten their look.

PUMPKIN SPICE

Embrace the essence of fall with the captivating pumpkin spice shade. This universally flattering color, a perfect blend of sweet and spicy tones, is particularly stunning on darker skin tones.

AUTUMN LEAVES

Autumn Leaves is a vibrant color scheme that evokes the essence of fall foliage. Blending maroon, red, and orange in an ombre effect, this style captures the beauty of changing leaves, bringing a touch of autumnal warmth to any season.

HOW CAN I CARE FOR CURLY HAIR COLOR?

To maintain vibrant and healthy color-treated coils, your colorist recommends a personalized care routine. This includes a color-safe, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner tailored to your hair density, such as Pureology Hydrate for medium-to-thick hair or Hydrate Sheer for fine hair. 

Additionally, incorporating a bond-repairing system like Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate can strengthen and protect hair from damage. 

To extend the life of your color and style, consider using a dry shampoo like Matrix Styling Refresher and a curl refresher spray like L’Oréal Professionnel Serie Expert Curl Expression, reducing the need for frequent washing and heat styling.

CONCLUSION

Inspired by these curly hair color ideas? Remember, every head of curly hair is unique, so it’s essential to consult with a professional colorist to find the perfect shade for you. Save your favorite looks and bring them to your next appointment for a personalized consultation.