DIY FACE MASK: RADIANT SKIN WITH NOURISHING INGREDIENTS
As a skincare enthusiast with a solid routine, I find that sometimes my skin craves an extra boost. That’s when I reach for my Homemade Essential Oil Face Mask!
This mask only requires three simple ingredients—ones you probably already have in your kitchen. While I’d call it a “pore-cleansing” mask, it offers so much more, leaving you feeling both pampered and refreshed.
3 Reasons to Try a Face Mask
Adding another step to your skincare routine might seem like a hassle, but trust me, this mask is absolutely worth it! Here are my top reasons for making face masks a must-have in your regimen.
PROMOTES RELAXATION
Applying a face mask is a wonderful way to tell your brain to “slow down.” Even the process of creating a DIY mask can be calming! I like to make face masks part of my weekly ritual: I’ll run a warm, detoxifying bath, play my favorite playlist, and unwind. Sometimes, I’ll add a bath bomb or meditate on Scripture. Give it a try—you’re bound to step out of the tub feeling refreshed and ready to take on whatever life brings.
DETOXIFIES YOUR SKIN
Beyond relaxation, face masks work wonders to detoxify and rejuvenate your skin—especially with essential oils! The ingredients in this mask are tried and true, known to help countless people achieve clearer, healthier skin. This mask is fantastic for tightening pores and promoting healing.
A GREAT BONDING TOOL
We’ve all seen those classic sleepover scenes with friends in face masks—it’s for good reason! Face masks make a perfect bonding activity. Double this recipe, invite friends over for some healthy snacks, and enjoy a mini spa day together. It’s also kid-friendly, so it’s a lovely activity to share with your daughter. Face masks have a way of sparking girl talk, so be ready for some meaningful conversations!
COMPLEXION-FRIENDLY FACIAL INGREDIENTS
This face mask recipe couldn’t be simpler—you only need three ingredients! Here’s why each one made the cut:
Organic Coconut Oil Coconut oil, a natural saturated fat from coconut seeds, is a staple in many kitchens but works wonders for skincare too. It provides deep moisture without leaving a greasy finish. Coconut oil is rich in lauric acid, which has antibacterial properties that help combat acne by reducing bacterial buildup on the skin. It also serves as a carrier oil, diluting essential oils for safer, more effective application by preventing quick evaporation and allowing even absorption into the skin.
Raw Honey Raw, organic honey is a natural antiseptic that pairs perfectly with coconut oil’s bacteria-fighting abilities. Honey not only brightens skin but has been used medicinally for centuries to treat infections and promote healing. It’s important to choose raw honey, as it’s minimally processed, preserving its nutrients and active enzymes that can be lost in highly processed, sugary alternatives.
Lemon Essential Oil Lemon essential oil is packed with d-limonene, a potent antioxidant. It’s a go-to in our home for its versatility, from sticky residue removal to freshening up fabrics. In this face mask, lemon oil works to brighten skin and even out tone, giving your skin a healthy, radiant glow.
USING A FACIAL MASK IN YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE
Curious about incorporating this face mask into your skincare routine? Here are my tips! You can do this routine once a week to prevent your skin from becoming too accustomed to the essential oils.
Cleanse Start by washing your face with a gentle, non-toxic cleanser. I recommend my Foaming Facial Cleanser, which lathers beautifully and feels luxurious on the skin.
Tone After cleansing, tone to balance your skin’s pH. No fancy ingredients needed—I like to use a cotton round soaked in apple cider vinegar for a simple and effective toner.
Apply the Mask Once you’ve toned, apply the face mask. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with warm water to remove.
Moisturize Finish with a light, toxin-free moisturizer if your skin needs extra hydration. My favorite is my Anti-Aging Cream and Skin Healing Serum, which is packed with nourishing ingredients and can even help fade spots for a clear, radiant complexion!
HOW TO MAKE A HOMEMADE FACIAL MASK
This face mask is an easy DIY that anyone can enjoy! If you’re sharing this pampering session with your daughter, let her join in on the fun. It’s a perfect opportunity to pass down healthy skincare habits to the next generation!
STEP ONE: MIX
In a small bowl, combine the coconut oil and honey. The coconut oil may start out solid, but it will begin to liquefy as you mix, creating a smooth blend for your mask.
STEP TWO: ADD ESSENTIAL OILS
In a small bowl, combine the coconut oil and honey. The coconut oil may start out solid, but it will begin to liquefy as you mix, creating a smooth blend for your mask.
STEP THREE: APPLY
Now for the fun part! Apply your face mask evenly and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Then, rinse with warm water to reveal refreshed, glowing skin.
This is just one step in your skincare routine, but it’s a powerful one that promotes healthy, radiant skin!
CONCLUSION
Incorporating this homemade face mask into your skincare routine is a simple yet effective way to enhance your skin’s health and radiance. With just three nourishing ingredients—coconut oil, raw honey, and lemon essential oil—you can enjoy the benefits of detoxification, hydration, and a little pampering. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing the experience with loved ones, this DIY mask not only promotes healthy skin but also fosters meaningful moments. So go ahead, indulge in some self-care, and let your skin shine!
14 BEST DRUGSTORE FACE WASHES THAT ACTUALLY WORK
Keeping your face clean is a key part of any skincare routine, but with so many face washes on the market, finding the right one can be overwhelming. Especially if you’re on a budget! Drugstore face washes offer a fantastic selection of cleansers that can be just as effective, if not more so, than pricier options. Here’s a guide to the 14 best drugstore face washes that will leave your skin feeling fresh, clean and happy without breaking the bank! We’ll cover cleansers for all different skin types, from acne-prone to dry and sensitive, so you can find the perfect one for your unique needs.
OUR TOP PICKS
CETAPHIL PRO FOAMING FACE WASH
Cetaphil Pro Foaming Face Wash is a great option for those with oily, acne-prone skin. This cleanser utilizes Zinc Technology to target excess oil and shine, while also calming and soothing irritation. The gentle foaming texture removes pore-clogging impurities and oil without over-drying, making it suitable for sensitive skin as well. This pH-balanced formula is clinically proven to remove 99% of excess oil, leaving your skin clean and refreshed.
CERAVE HYDRATING FACIAL CLEANSER
Ideal for normal to dry skin, CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a fragrance-free, gentle cleanser that removes dirt, oil, and makeup without disrupting the skin’s natural barrier. This dermatologist-developed face wash is formulated with three essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and MVE technology. Ceramides help restore and maintain the skin’s protective barrier, hyaluronic acid attracts and retains moisture, and MVE technology ensures a controlled, long-lasting release of hydrating ingredients throughout the day. This combination keeps your skin clean, comfortable, and hydrated, even after cleansing.
OLAY REGENERIST REGENERATING CREAM CLEANSER
Olay Regenerist Regenerating Cream Cleanser caters to those looking for a cleanser that combines deep cleansing with anti-aging benefits. This creamy formula is designed to wash away dirt, makeup, and impurities while gently exfoliating to accelerate skin’s natural surface regeneration. The inclusion of advanced anti-aging ingredients aims to smooth skin texture and promote a more youthful appearance. However, it’s important to note that cleansers are typically left on the face for a short time, so the anti-aging benefits may be subtle. Regardless, this cleanser is a good option for those with normal, dry, or combination skin seeking a clean and refreshed feel with a touch of anti-aging support.
THE ORDINARY SQUALANE CLEANSER
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser is a gentle, two-in-one cleanser designed for all skin types, including sensitive skin. This fragrance-free formula uses squalane, a plant-derived oil that mimics natural skin oils, to effectively dissolve makeup and remove dirt and impurities without stripping away moisture. Squalane also helps to replenish the skin’s barrier, leaving it feeling soft and supple. The lightweight, non-comedogenic formula (meaning it won’t clog pores) makes it a great choice for those with oily or acne-prone skin as well.
NEUTROGENA STUBBORN TEXTURE ACNE CLEANSER
Neutrogena Stubborn Texture Acne Cleanser tackles both acne breakouts and uneven skin texture in one go. This dermatologist-grade cleanser combines a powerful trio of acids to achieve clear and smooth skin. Salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), penetrates pores to clear existing acne and prevent new blemishes. Glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), helps loosen and shed dead skin cells on the surface, promoting a smoother texture. Finally, polyhydroxy acid (PHA) gently exfoliates to minimize the appearance of pores and improve overall skin texture. This fragrance-free cleanser is suitable for oily and acne-prone skin, although those with sensitive skin may want to patch test first due to the exfoliating ingredients.
E.L.F COSMETICS HOLY HYDRATION! DAILY CLEANSER
E.l.f. Holy Hydration! Daily Cleanser is a budget-friendly option that caters to those with normal, dry, or combination skin. This gel-based cleanser transforms into a soft lather that removes excess oil, impurities, and even light makeup without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture barrier. The key ingredients here are hyaluronic acid and ceramides. Hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant, attracts and retains moisture, leaving your skin feeling hydrated and plump. Ceramides, on the other hand, help strengthen and repair the skin’s natural barrier, preventing dehydration and irritation. This fragrance-free cleanser is gentle enough for everyday use and leaves your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and comfortably hydrated.
DOVE BEAUTY BAR
Dove Beauty Bar is a classic choice for a reason! This gentle bar soap is formulated with ¼ moisturizing cream, leaving your skin feeling soft and smooth after cleansing. Unlike traditional bar soaps that can be stripping, Dove’s unique formula effectively washes away dirt and oil without disrupting your skin’s natural moisture balance. This makes it a great choice for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Dove Beauty Bar is also fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, minimizing the risk of irritation. It’s an affordable and effective option for those looking for a simple, no-frills cleanser for both face and body.
WELEDA SKIN FOOD FACE CARE NOURISHING OIL-TO-MILK CLEANSER
Weleda Skin Food Face Care Nourishing Oil-to-Milk Cleanser is a gentle cleanser ideal for normal, dry, and even sensitive skin types. This unique formula starts as a comforting oil that transforms into a milky lather upon contact with water. Sunflower seed oil, rich in nutrients, cleanses the skin while maintaining its natural moisture balance. Soothing calendula and wild pansy extract help calm and reduce irritation. This cleanser effectively removes makeup, dirt, and impurities without leaving your skin feeling stripped or dry. Weleda’s focus on natural and botanical ingredients makes it a good choice for those seeking a gentle and effective cleanser that nourishes the skin.
CETAPHIL GENTLE CLEAR CLEANSER
Cetaphil Gentle Clear Cleanser is a great drugstore option for those struggling with acne-prone or sensitive skin. This fragrance-free, cream-to-lather cleanser tackles blemishes with salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates pores to clear existing breakouts and prevent new ones. Unlike some acne cleansers that can be harsh, Cetaphil’s gentle formula is non-irritating and suitable for even sensitive skin. Soothing ingredients like aloe vera and white tea extract help calm and reduce inflammation, while still providing effective cleansing power. This cleanser is a good choice if you’re looking for a solution to clear up acne without irritating your skin.
NEUTROGENA OIL-FREE ACNE FIGHTING FACIAL CLEANSER WITH SALICYLIC ACID
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Fighting Facial Cleanser with Salicylic Acid is a dermatologist-recommended cleanser designed to combat acne and prevent future breakouts. This fragrance-free formula contains 2% salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates deep into pores to unclog them and clear out existing blemishes. The oil-free formula helps control excess oil production, a common culprit in acne formation. Neutrogena’s MicroClear technology helps deliver the salicylic acid directly to the source of the breakout, maximizing its effectiveness. This cleanser gently cleanses without over-drying, making it suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. If you have sensitive skin, it’s recommended to patch test first due to the exfoliating properties of the salicylic acid.
Aveeno Calm + Restore Redness Relief Foaming Cleanser is a gentle option designed for those with sensitive skin prone to redness. This fragrance-free cleanser utilizes feverfew, a botanical extract known for its calming properties, to soothe irritation and reduce the appearance of redness. The foaming formula gently removes dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping away moisture, leaving your skin feeling clean, comfortable, and less irritated. This cleanser is also non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, making it suitable for those with acne-prone skin as well. If you’re looking for a gentle cleanser that effectively cleanses and calms sensitive, redness-prone skin, Aveeno Calm + Restore Redness Relief Foaming Cleanser is a great drugstore option to consider.
LA ROCHE-POSAY TOLERIANE PURIFYING FOAMING CLEANSER
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser is a fragrance-free cleanser designed for normal to oily, sensitive skin. This gentle cleanser utilizes micellar technology to effectively remove dirt, oil, and makeup without disrupting the skin’s natural barrier. La Roche-Posay prebiotic thermal water, known for its soothing and antioxidant properties, helps calm irritation and reduce redness. This cleanser also contains mattifying ingredients to control excess oil production, leaving your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and shine-free. Suitable for everyday use, La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser is a great choice for those seeking a gentle yet effective cleanser for sensitive, oily skin.
VANICREAM GENTLE FACIAL CLEANSER
Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser is a fragrance-free and soap-free cleanser ideal for sensitive skin. This dermatologist-recommended formula is free of common irritants like dyes, parabens, and sulfates, making it suitable for even the most delicate skin. The gentle cleanser effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser utilizes ceramides, which help maintain healthy skin hydration and strengthen the skin’s barrier function. This fragrance-free cleanser is non-comedogenic and rinses clean without leaving residue, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin types.
LA ROCHE-POSAY LIPIKAR WASH AP+
La Roche-Posay Lipikar Wash AP+ is a fragrance-free, gentle cleanser specifically formulated for dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin. This dermatologist-tested cleanser utilizes a unique, syndet formula that combines the cleansing properties of soap with the moisturizing benefits of a cream. It gently cleanses the skin without stripping away natural oils, leaving it feeling soft, comfortable, and hydrated.
La Roche-Posay Lipikar Wash AP+ is enriched with several key ingredients to soothe and protect irritated skin. Aqua Posae Filiformis, a prebiotic thermal water sourced by the brand, helps balance the skin’s microbiome and strengthen its natural barrier. Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, calms inflammation and reduces redness. Glycerin, a humectant ingredient, attracts and retains moisture in the skin, keeping it hydrated and comfortable. This gentle cleanser is suitable for the whole family, from infants and children to adults, making it a great choice for those seeking a calming and moisturizing cleanser for sensitive skin.
WHAT SHOULD YOU LOOK FOR IN A FACE WASH?
When selecting a drugstore face wash, it’s essential to consider your skin type and choose a formula that complements it effectively. For sensitive skin, opt for fragrance-free options, while individuals with dry skin may benefit from hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid. Creams, oils, or balms are recommended for dry skin, whereas gel or foams are ideal for oily or acne-prone skin.
While you can look for active ingredients in face washes, simplicity is often key. Dermatologists suggest gentle cleansers free of sodium lauryl sulfate, alcohol, or fragrance to prevent irritation. Dr. Martha H. Viera, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami, emphasizes the importance of choosing gentle and non-irritating formulations for effective skincare.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU WASH YOUR FACE?
Dermatologists advise washing your face once or twice daily for optimal skincare. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick emphasizes the importance of cleansing the face at the end of the day to eliminate accumulated dirt, debris, excess oil, and makeup. While washing your face in the morning is acceptable, individuals with sensitive or dry skin may opt for a single cleanse in the evening for gentle skincare maintenance.
CONCLUSION
So there you have it, our top picks for the 14 best drugstore face washes that deliver real results! With cleansers for all skin types and concerns, from acne-fighting formulas to hydrating options for dry skin, there’s a perfect drugstore cleanser out there for everyone. Remember, the key to a healthy complexion is consistency, so find a cleanser that works well for you and incorporate it into your daily routine for clean, clear, and beautiful skin!
