Sensitive skin is delicate, can get easily irritated, and often reacts badly to harsh chemicals but that does not mean you cannot use any skincare products on it. Well, nature’s pantry is filled with some incredible ingredients that can do wonders for your skin. Homemade face masks are a gentle yet effective approach to nourishing and soothing sensitive skin. From moisturising aloe vera to soothing chamomile, here are a variety of DIY face masks for sensitive skin.

What is sensitive skin?

Does your skin get irritated, red, or inflamed easily? It could be due to unfavourable products, some environmental factors and even a gentle touch. Common symptoms include redness, itching, burning, tightness, and dryness. Unlike dry skin, which lacks oil, sensitive skin has a weaker protective barrier, making it more vulnerable to external aggressors, found a study published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology. While it might be frustrating, there are numerous natural remedies and mild skin care techniques that can help soothe and preserve sensitive skin.

Homemade face masks for sensitive skin

For sensitive skin, it is essential to use gentle, non-irritating ingredients. Here are some of the best homemade face masks for sensitive skin, as suggested by dermatologist Dr DM Mahajan.

1. Honey and yoghurt mask

Honey is one of the most powerful natural moisturisers. According to a study published in Pharmacognosy Research, honey offers antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, apoptotic, and antioxidant qualities that can help keep your skin free of acne and inflammation.

Method

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• Mix 2 tablespoons of honey with 1 tablespoon of yoghurt to create a soothing mask that hydrates and calms the skin.
• Gently apply it on the skin.
• Leave it for 10-15 minutes.
• Wash it off with warm water.

2. Cucumber and aloe vera mask

Cucumber cools and soothes inflamed skin, and aloe vera moisturises and heals it, giving you a more beautiful and glowing skin.

Method

• Blend 1/2 cucumber with 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel to reduce inflammation and cool the skin.
• Apply it on the skin.
• Leave it for 10-15 minutes.
• Rinse it off with water.

3. Oatmeal and banana mask

Oats have a high amino acid balance and silica content, making them a good emollient for restoring the skin’s natural moisture, found a study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology.

Method

• Mash 1 ripe banana with 2 tablespoons of oatmeal to create a gentle exfoliating mask.
• Gently apply it on the face.
• Leave it for 10-15 minutes.
• Wash it off with water.

4. Green tea and chamomile mask

A combination of green tea and chamomile is an excellent choice for sensitive skin. Both these ingredients calm and protect your skin from damage. Green tea is packed with antioxidants that help neutralise harmful free radicals, reducing inflammation and redness, as found in a study published in the Journal of Nutrition. Chamomile, on the other hand, is renowned for its calming properties, making it ideal for sensitive skin.

Method

• Steep 1 green tea bag in 1 cup of boiling water, then let it cool.
• Mix with 1 tablespoon of dried chamomile flowers to make a calming mask.
• Apply it on the face using a cotton pad.
• Let it soak in until it gets absorbed into the skin.
• Remove using lukewarm water.

5. Avocado and honey mask

According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetology and Dermatology, eating avocados may improve the texture of your skin and make it more supple. Avocados are also rich in vitamins C and E, which play a key role in the health and vitality of your skin and honey soothes the skin.

Method

• Mash 1 ripe avocado with 1 tablespoon of honey to create a nourishing mask that hydrates and moisturises.
• Gently apply it on the skin.
• Leave it for 10-15 minutes.
• Wash it off with running water.

6. Rosewater and glycerin mask

Glycerin enhances the barrier by promoting the production of essential lipids and proteins. This protects your face from irritants and environmental damage, according to a 2008 study published in the British Journal of Dermatology. Rose water helps to give hydration to your skin.

Method

• Mix 2 tablespoons of rosewater with 1 tablespoon of glycerin to create a soothing and hydrating mask.
• Apply it on the skin.
• Wash it off with cool water.

7. Aloe vera and vitamin E mask

“An aloe vera and vitamin E mask is an excellent alternative for sensitive skin. This combination provides deep hydration, nourishment, and protection,” says the expert.

Method

• Mix 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel with 1 tablespoon of vitamin E oil to create a calming and antioxidant-rich mask.
• Apply it on the skin.
• Wash it off with running water.

Also read: How to use a face mask: The best before and after tips for your skincare routine

Why are homemade face masks for sensitive skin better?

Face masks are useful for those with sensitive skin since they can address many symptoms at once. Face packs provide numerous benefits for sensitive skin. Here are some of the benefits

1. Gentle to skin

Natural ingredients are typically milder and less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions. Homemade masks provide a soothing effect on sensitive skin. So, if your skin gets irritated with harsh chemical substances, incorporating homemade face masks can be helpful.

2. Face mask can be customised

You have complete control over the ingredients, so your mask can be customised to your exact skin needs. This gives you full freedom to avoid the harsh chemicals and irritants commonly present in commercial products.

3. Cost-effective

Many ingredients in the mask can be found in your kitchen, making them a budget-friendly option. So, if you visit beauty salons to spend money and time to get clear and smooth skin, you may want to give homemade masks a try!

4. May enhance overall appearance

They can help enhance the overall texture of the skin, leaving it feeling rejuvenated, mattified, and radiant. Homemade face masks are the easiest way to get glowing skin with the help of natural ingredients found in your kitchen.

Also Read: Dry, oily, sensitive or combination: How to determine your skin type?

Side effects of homemade face masks

While there are many benefits of using homemade face masks, there is a downside to it that you should be familiar with:

1. May trigger allergic reactions

Organic ingredients can still trigger allergic reactions. Honey and nuts are all common allergies. Always run a patch test before applying a new mask.

2. May irritate the skin

Some ingredients may irritate the skin such as lemon juice and turmeric. These ingredients can be too strong for the skin and may cause redness and stinging. So it is best to avoid it.

Always do a patch test before using new ingredients to minimise the risk, regardless of how harmless they may seem. Also, use clean equipment and store masks properly. If you experience any adverse effects, discontinue its use and consult a dermatologist.