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!
15 BEST FACE PRIMERS FOR MATURE SKIN, ACCORDING TO PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP ARTISTS
For women entering middle age, the needs of their skin begin to change. It may become drier, lose elasticity, and wrinkles may become more obvious. However, that doesn’t mean you have to give up on perfect makeup! A primer made specifically for mature skin can be your secret weapon. Here’s the scoop on the 15 best face primers for mature skin, according to professional makeup artists. With their recommendations, you’ll find the perfect primer to hydrate, smooth, and create a long-lasting base for your makeup, while addressing the unique concerns of your mature skin.
OUR TOP PICKS
MILK HYDRO GRIP PRIMER
The Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer is a popular choice for all skin types, but it can be particularly beneficial for mature skin. This award-winning gel primer is infused with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, ingredients known to plump and hydrate the skin, helping to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles. The innovative formula also contains blue agave extract, which acts like a grip to hold your makeup in place for up to 12 hours, while still leaving a dewy finish. This is a great option if you’re looking for a primer that will address dryness, keep your makeup looking fresh throughout the day, and give you a radiant, youthful glow.
L’ORÉAL PARIS AGE PERFECT FACE BLURRING PRIMER
Designed specifically for mature skin, L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Face Blurring Primer is a multitasking wonder. This primer boasts a lightweight, velvety texture that feels comfortable all day long. It’s infused with a caring serum, which includes imperial peonies, to not only provide a blurring effect that minimizes the appearance of lines and pores but also improve your skin’s overall radiance and smoothness over time. The universal rosy formula adds a subtle hint of color to even out your complexion and promote a healthy-looking glow. This drugstore favorite is a perfect choice if you want a primer that combines instant blurring with long-term skincare benefits, all at an affordable price.
TATCHA THE LIQUID SILK CANVAS
For a luxurious primer experience, Tatcha The Liquid Silk Canvas Featherweight Protective Primer caters to mature skin concerns with a blend of elegance and efficacy. This weightless liquid primer feels like silk on the skin, thanks to silk extracts that provide a smooth canvas for makeup application. It’s formulated without oil, making it suitable for even oily or combination mature skin types. But where The Liquid Silk Canvas truly shines is its protective qualities. It includes Tatcha’s signature Hadasei-3 complex, which helps shield skin from environmental aggressors that can exacerbate signs of aging. This primer is a great option if you prioritize a lightweight, luxurious feel with the added benefit of environmental protection for your mature skin.
HOURGLASS N° 28 PRIMER SERUM
Hourglass N°28 Primer Serum offers a unique two-in-one approach for mature skin. This silky, lightweight formula combines the benefits of a hydrating serum with a smoothing primer. Packed with 28 age-defying ingredients, it delivers a powerful dose of nourishment. Fourteen essential oils like lavender and geranium work to soften the appearance of fine lines, while 10 lipid-rich plant oils including jojoba and rosehip provide deep hydration. Vitamins A, B5, C, and E offer additional antioxidant protection and promote a healthy glow. This multi-tasking product is ideal for mature skin that craves both hydration and a flawless makeup base.
STRIVECTIN LINE BLURFECTOR INSTANT WRINKLE BLURRING PRIMER
StriVectin Line BlurFector Instant Wrinkle Blurring Primer lives up to its name by offering both immediate and long-term benefits for mature skin. This primer utilizes a combination of blurring technology and skin-loving ingredients. The formula fills and optically minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, creating a smooth canvas for makeup application. But StriVectin doesn’t stop there. It also features niacinamide and botanical extracts that work to improve skin texture and refine pores over time. This dual-action primer is a great choice if you want to see immediate results while also investing in the future health and appearance of your mature skin.
STILA ONE STEP CORRECT
Stila One Step Correct is a multi-tasking color-correcting primer that simplifies your routine for mature skin. This 3-in-1 formula combines a hydrating primer with color-correcting pigments to address various concerns and achieve a more even-toned complexion. Green tones help neutralize redness and camouflage blemishes, while lavender counteracts sallowness for a more vibrant appearance. Peach tones brighten and illuminate the skin, diminishing the look of sunspots and age spots. This all-in-one product is ideal for mature skin that needs a boost of hydration, color correction, and a radiant finish, all in one convenient step.
NO. 1 DE CHANEL SKIN ENHANCER
Chanel No. 1 de Chanel Skin Enhancer is a unique entry on this list, blurring the lines between skincare and makeup for mature skin. This product boasts a radiant illuminator formula that combines a hint of tint with skincare benefits. The key ingredient is Red Camellia Extract and Oil, formulated by Chanel research to promote vitality and shield the skin. While it provides a subtle color boost to even out skin tone, it isn’t designed for full-coverage. However, the lightweight texture works beautifully on its own for a natural, lit-from-within glow on mature skin, or can be layered under foundation for extra radiance and a touch of perfecting coverage.
ILIA TRUE SKIN RADIANT PRIMING SERUM
Ideal for those seeking a clean, multi-beneficial primer, ILIA True Skin Radiant Priming Serum caters to mature skin with a focus on both makeup performance and skincare benefits. This silicone-free, lightweight formula combines the smoothing properties of a primer with nourishing ingredients. It helps to visibly firm and soften the look of fine lines, while also hydrating and soothing mature skin. Additionally, the serum protects against environmental aggressors that can contribute to signs of aging. This primer is a great choice if you prioritize clean beauty products that deliver a radiant, youthful canvas for makeup application while addressing the unique needs of mature skin.
HOURGLASS VANISH AIRBRUSH PRIMER
Hourglass Vanish Airbrush Primer is a favorite among makeup artists for its ability to create a flawless, airbrushed finish on mature skin. This translucent gel primer minimizes the appearance of pores and fine lines with innovative microspherical powders. These blur imperfections without settling into wrinkles, a common concern for mature skin. The oil-absorbing formula also helps control shine throughout the day, ensuring your makeup stays put for a long-lasting, flawless look. While not specifically marketed as a hydrating primer, Hourglass Vanish Airbrush Primer is suitable for most skin types, including mature skin, thanks to its lightweight, comfortable feel.
INNBEAUTY PROJECT SLUSHY SERUM MOISTURIZER CRUSH
The InnBeauty Project Slushy Serum Moisturizer Crush is a unique product that combines the benefits of a serum and moisturizer in one, making it a great time-saving option for busy mornings. This lightweight formula is infused with hyaluronic acid, known for its powerful hydrating properties, to plump and quench mature skin. Bakuchiol, a gentler alternative to retinol, is also included to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The innovative slushy texture feels refreshing and absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. This all-in-one product is ideal for mature skin that craves hydration, wants to target signs of aging, and appreciates a streamlined skincare routine.
For mature skin that needs a deep dose of hydration and rejuvenation, Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Moisture Repair Balm Serum offers a powerful solution. This 98% natural, fragrance-free balm-to-serum treatment combines the nourishing benefits of a balm with the lightweight feel of a serum. Packed with 16 key ingredients, including Centella Asiatica to soothe irritation and hyaluronic acid for intense hydration, it plumps and smooths the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This multitasking product goes beyond immediate effects. Over time, it works to strengthen the skin barrier, targeting concerns like tightness, flakiness, and dullness that are common with mature skin. If you’re looking for a natural, deeply hydrating primer that repairs and transforms your mature skin, the Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Moisture Repair Balm Serum is a worthy contender.
SMASHBOX MINI PHOTO FINISH PRIMERIZER+ HYDRATING FACE PRIMER
Suitable for those who want to try before they commit or who prefer a travel-friendly size, the Smashbox Mini Photo Finish Primerizer+ Hydrating Face Primer offers a taste of the full-size version. This mini marvel packs the same benefits as its larger counterpart in a convenient, on-the-go size. Boasting a lightweight, water-based formula infused with triple hyaluronic acid, it delivers up to 72 hours of hydration, plumping and smoothing the appearance of fine lines on mature skin. This primer also strengthens the skin’s barrier to protect against environmental aggressors like pollution and blue light, which can contribute to signs of aging. Whether you’re new to Smashbox primers or simply looking for a handy travel companion, the Mini Photo Finish Primerizer+ Hydrating Face Primer is a great option for those with mature skin seeking hydration and a prepped canvas for makeup application.
BENEFIT COSMETICS BENEFIT THE POREFESSIONAL FACE PRIMER
A long-time favorite for a reason, Benefit Cosmetics The POREfessional Face Primer is a great all-rounder for mature skin. This oil-free formula minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores and fine lines, creating a smooth, matte finish that’s ideal for makeup application. It’s lightweight and comfortable to wear throughout the day, without clogging pores or feeling heavy on mature skin. While not specifically marketed for hydration, many users find it doesn’t exacerbate dryness. The POREfessional Primer is a solid choice if you want a primer that addresses visible pores and fine lines, controls shine, and provides a long-lasting base for your makeup on mature skin.
GIORGIO ARMANI LUMINOUS SILK HYDRATING PRIMER
Designed specifically for mature skin, Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Hydrating Primer offers a luxurious and hydrating canvas. This lightweight formula is infused with shea butter, rice bran, and glycerin, providing deep nourishment and smoothing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The oil-in-water texture feels comfortable and refreshing, suitable for even drier skin types. Unlike some mattifying primers, Luminous Silk Hydrating Primer enhances your natural radiance for a dewy, youthful glow. This primer is a great choice for those with mature skin who want to create a smooth, luminous base for makeup application while addressing concerns like dryness and fine lines.
CATRICE THE HYDRATOR PLUMP & FRESH PRIMER
Catrice The Hydrator Plump & Fresh Primer is a budget-friendly option for mature skin seeking a boost of hydration and a plump, refreshed appearance. This lightweight primer is formulated with aloe vera, known for its soothing and hydrating properties, to quench thirsty mature skin. It also contains ingredients that help to mattify and minimize the appearance of pores. While not specifically targeted at addressing fine lines and wrinkles, the plumping effect can help to smooth their look. This drugstore primer is a great choice for those on a budget who want a hydrating primer that creates a fresh canvas for makeup application on mature skin.
ALL ABOUT FACE PRIMER
WHAT IS FACE PRIMER?
A face primer is a cosmetic product applied to the face before makeup to create a smooth base and enhance the wear of makeup. Primers can also be used to address specific skin concerns, such as oily skin, dryness, or large pores.
BENEFITS OF USING A FACE PRIMER
Creates a smooth base: Primers can help to fill in pores and fine lines, creating a smooth surface for makeup to apply to. This can help to make your makeup look more flawless and even.
Extends the wear of makeup: Primers can help to keep your makeup in place longer, preventing it from fading or smudging. This is especially important for people who have oily skin or who are going to be in a hot or humid environment.
Controls shine: If you have oily skin, a primer can help to control shine and keep your face looking matte.
Hydrates the skin: Some primers are also formulated to hydrate the skin. This can be beneficial for people with dry skin or who are using other drying makeup products, such as foundation powder.
TYPES OF FACE PRIMERS
There are many different types of face primers available, each with its own benefits. Some of the most common types of primers include:
Hydrating primers: These primers are designed to hydrate the skin and are a good choice for people with dry skin.
Mattifying primers: These primers are designed to control shine and are a good choice for people with oily skin.
Smoothing primers: These primers are designed to fill in pores and fine lines and are a good choice for people who want to create a smooth base for makeup application.
Illuminating primers: These primers are designed to give the skin a radiant glow and are a good choice for people who want to achieve a dewy look.
HOW TO APPLY FACE PRIMER
Cleanse and moisturize your face as usual.
Apply a small amount of primer to your fingertips or a makeup sponge.
Smooth the primer evenly over your face, paying attention to areas where you tend to get oily or where you have large pores.
Let the primer dry completely before applying your makeup.
TIPS FOR CHOOSING A FACE PRIMER
Consider your skin type: If you have dry skin, choose a hydrating primer. If you have oily skin, choose a mattifying primer.
Consider your desired finish: If you want a dewy finish, choose an illuminating primer. If you want a matte finish, choose a mattifying primer.
Consider your makeup concerns: If you have large pores, choose a smoothing primer. If you want to extend the wear of your makeup, choose a long-lasting primer.
Once you’ve found the right face primer for your skin type and needs, you can enjoy the benefits of a flawless, long-lasting makeup application.
CONCLUSION
With this list of the 15 best face primers for mature skin, chosen by professional makeup artists, you have countless options to target your specific concerns. Whether you prioritize hydration, smoothing out wrinkles, achieving radiant skin, or ensuring lasting wear, there’s a perfect primer for you. Remember to consider your skin type and desired results when choosing. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and find the primer that helps you achieve the most perfect, youthful makeup look! Remember, you need to follow a step-by-step make up guide that works for older women. Wishing you beauty always, no matter your age!
