One of my favorite self-care indulgences is skincare rituals. It satisfies my physical desire to take care of myself and can offer an aromatherapeutic experience right in the comfort of my home. This DIY Matcha Glow Mask is no exception and I wish I had thought to share it sooner.
More about the ingredients.
Matcha is world-renowned for its powerful antioxidants and offers some great benefits when used topically like providing antioxidants, combating free radical damage, stress to the skin and inflammation. It also boasts key skin-loving therapeutic actions such as balancing out natural oil production, cleansing, detoxifying, energizing, rejuvenating and brightening with each use.
Licorice Root in skincare is an amazing adaptogen that also helps fight free radicals while exposing your skin to some of its 300 polyphenols and flavonoids. These unique properties also help lessen hyperpigmentation.
Bentonite Clay is highly absorbent, pulls oils and toxins from the skin and is detoxifying. It is widely used for a number of skincare rituals and makes a great base to start with when dealing with oily or otherwise congested skin.
(Optional) Essential Oil/Essential Oil Blend I didn't add any to this blend but I have experimented with essential oils in my face clay and find them quite relaxing, especially when I have the time to close my eyes for a few minutes while the clay sets on my skin.
Measure
1 tbsp bentonite clay powder
1/2 tsp matcha powder
1/2 tsp licorice root powder
1 drop of essential oil of your choice - add when you add water (optional)
Mix
Stir all 3 dry ingredients together well and transfer to a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
To Use
Measure out 3/4 tbsp to 1 tbsp of face clay and mix well with 1 tsp - 1 1/2 tsp of herbal tea or warm water (think paste consistency). Add a drop of essential oil if using and mix well again.
Prep your face by lightly misting with warm water
Using your fingers or a small makeup brush (my preference so I don't get the clay under my nails) apply the mask to face and neck avoiding getting too close to your eyes or lips.
Relax for 5-8 minutes (don't let the mask harden on your skin)
Remove with a clean warm cloth
Follow with a light non-comedogenic moisturizer or hydrosol spritz
I use this mask at least twice a week, mostly in the morning when I'm getting ready for my day. I don't know what it is but even if I'm not leaving the house and I have the opportunity to work in my pj's (almost any given workday) I've still got to get in my skincare ritual routines and put on some hoop earrings. And I don't mind being that way, it somehow makes me feel more productive!