By now, my kids are pretty used to seeing me with all sorts of strange-colored stuff on my face. I often use homemade face masks, like this probiotic yogurt mask, which is fantastic for keeping my skin hydrated and nourished. The downside is you have to use it immediately after making it. However, there’s an alternative: a seaweed face mask that you can store as a powder and mix up when needed for your skincare routine.
This mask is packed with antioxidants and superfood components that help pull impurities out of the skin. Plus, it boosts collagen, which can help reduce fine lines. It might make you look a bit like The Hulk while it’s on, but who cares if it benefits your skin?
Key ingredients in this mask are kelp and spirulina seaweed powders. I’ve also included some French green clay, known for its cleansing properties and because it fits the green theme. Adding essential oils can enhance the benefits and improve the scent since seaweed masks can smell a bit fishy!
French green clay comes from ancient sea mud layers and is rich in nutrients, making it excellent for facial masks. It works well for normal, combination, or oily skin because of its purifying and exfoliating properties. This clay gets its green hue from kelp, algae, and iron oxides. It’s full of minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium and is even used to purify wastewater, removing lead and heavy metals. It’s also great for acne as it has drawing and antibacterial properties to combat blemishes.
If you have sensitive or dry skin, you might want to add some oil to your mask, or substitute with kaolin clay, which is better for dry skin. Also, you could finish with some homemade lotion for extra hydration.
Spirulina is another key element in a seaweed face mask. It’s one of the most nutrient-rich foods on Earth and even used by astronauts. High in protein, iron, and inflammation-fighting antioxidants, spirulina is derived from single-cell algae.
Kelp powder is another powerhouse ingredient providing vitamins K, A, B-12, calcium, iron, iodine, and magnesium, plus over 70 trace minerals. Kelp contains antioxidants that reduce redness and protect against skin damage, and it acts as a great moisturizer for skin.
Seaweed blends seamlessly with both oils and water-based ingredients due to its diverse nutrient profile. However, oil and water don’t mix, which just gives us more options. For moisture, you might choose a carrier oil or even plain yogurt for your seaweed face mask. Aloe vera gel, hydrosols, or plain water can also work well. Adding some glycerin to the liquid is beneficial for skin. If you’re unfamiliar with hydrosols, they are the byproduct of essential oil distillation and make excellent toners.
While optional, essential oils can enhance the scent and benefits of the mask. If you’re interested, there are more face mask recipes to try. Have you ever used seaweed for your skincare? Would you give it a go? Share your experience with us!
