This time, we’ll share an all-natural DIY face pack and the best products for acne-prone skin!
Hello!
It’s been six months since I started using honey instead of cleansing oil to remove my makeup. I believe that what’s good for the body is also good for the skin, and this method has truly transformed my complexion. Of course, double cleansing is essential, but I highly recommend giving it a try. I’d love for you all to challenge yourselves and experience the benefits too! 😊✨
※Acne care tips are mentioned towards the end of this page.
These days, you can find face masks just about everywhere.
From placenta-infused options to those enriched with vitamin C, there are literally thousands of varieties available on the market.
I’m not against store-bought face masks, but I believe that when it comes to weekly use, all-natural options are the best. Using highly concentrated face masks too often can be overwhelming for the skin, so it's best to limit them to about once a month for a gentler skincare routine.
The idea is simple:
"If it’s something you’d feel safe giving to your own child, it shouldn’t be harmful to your body either."
With that in mind, let’s dive into some store-bought face masks that are worth using once a month!
Benefits of Store-Bought Face Masks
One of the key benefits of store-bought face masks is their ability to deliver high-concentration ingredients that can quickly absorb into the skin within just a few minutes.
While it is possible to create your own DIY face masks with high-concentration placenta or high-concentration vitamin C, the cost of the necessary ingredients can add up quickly.
The convenience of easily absorbing skincare ingredients comparable to professional treatments at home is a major advantage of store-bought face masks.
Affordable cosmetics and Korean beauty products, in particular, offer amazing results that exceed their price. Using them just a few times a year can lead to noticeable improvements in your skin, and many of them offer a level of quality that promises long-term results—something that can truly make a difference in the next 10 years!
Disadvantages of Store-Bought Face Masks
Store-bought face masks certainly have their drawbacks, with preservatives being the biggest concern. Recently, there was a discussion about how there’s not much difference between high-end cosmetics and even something like Nivea in terms of their ingredients, and in both cases, preservatives are present. So, it’s similar to applying additives to your face.
The same can be said for toners that you might want to splash on your face. However, since face masks are left on for several minutes, it’s really best to choose products that are gentle on the skin.
Common preservatives in cosmetics include:
Parabens
Phenoxyethanol
Potassium sorbate
Sodium benzoate
Among these, Sodium Benzoate has antimicrobial properties, which is why many cosmetics companies are increasingly using it, despite its potential downsides.
Now, after reading this, some of you might be thinking that it’s better to avoid them altogether, but that’s not the case. Store-bought face masks are designed to supplement the skin with nutrients that are hard to get otherwise. It’s best to use them in moderation—just don’t overdo it.
For those who are particularly concerned about preservatives, choosing individually packaged masks is a good option. These tend to have fewer preservatives because they are less exposed to air and can maintain their efficacy without the need for heavy preservatives.
All-natural face mask
If you're particular about being additive-free, why not make it at home!
A face mask made with soy yogurt and honey is something you can also consume internally, and it’s recommended for those with sensitive skin.
How to Make a Soy Yogurt Face Mask
This is an easy-to-make face mask that can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.
Ingredients
Soy yogurt: 1 tablespoon
Honey (or maple syrup for vegans): 1 teaspoon
Simply mix these two ingredients together. Apply the mixture to your face and neck, leave it on for about 5 minutes, and then rinse it off. It will provide nourishment to your skin.
This recipe makes enough for 3 uses, so you can use the leftover mask in the morning as a substitute for your regular face wash. Instead of scrubbing your face in the morning, which can strip away moisture, keep your morning cleanse gentle and simple for the best results.
Benefits of a Soy Yogurt Face Mask
Both regular yogurt and soy yogurt provide nourishment to the skin.
Regular yogurt contains lactic acid, which offers a gentle exfoliating effect. On the other hand, soy yogurt is rich in plant-based isoflavones, making it gentler on the skin and an excellent option for vegans (you can even skip the honey).
Isoflavones help maintain skin hydration while also reducing dullness, leading to a brighter complexion. Additionally, the probiotics in soy yogurt gently remove dead skin cells, leaving your skin smooth and refreshed.
Acne Skin Care Tips
Acne doesn’t naturally heal on its own. Our family also observed my son’s acne for several months during his teenage years, but eventually, we gave up and consulted a doctor.
That said, both my son and I are anti-chemical, and we absolutely avoid antibiotics and strong medications unless absolutely necessary. When we occasionally have to rely on medication due to a high fever, we end up just sleeping it off.
Since I live in Switzerland, I’m not sure if the same products are available to everyone, but I believe that similar options, such as pH 5.5 facial cleansers or body washes with the same ingredients, should be available.
Now, for the results... On the left is before use, and on the right is after. While I can't show my son’s face since he’s a minor, I hope you can understand. The skin color might appear different in the photos, but please focus on the pores. You can see that the pore size has visibly improved.
Of course, we also cut back on lactose consumption. Since he couldn’t have dairy, we tried various things like giving him hijiki (to prevent constipation), switching to almond milk, and using soy milk. It was all a bit of trial and error.
By the way, the three facial cleansers we used are as follows:
This product is also excellent for use as a body wash when your skin feels dry. I purchased it from my local pharmacy. If you find a product with similar ingredients, it can also be used for acne treatment.
However, if you’re already receiving acne treatment from a doctor, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider before trying new products.
It’s just a coincidence that the body wash I had been using ended up being the same one prescribed by the doctor when we went for acne treatment. I realized it can be used for cleansing as well...
Apparently they sometimes used other things too.
My nephew gave these to my son as a gift when he returned to Japan. With these two products, his acne-prone son's skin was transformed into that of a handsome young man. It seems he also used these products.
Things that worked for me when I had acne
Check bowel movements to restrict food intake (you need to plan your meals)
If it gets worse, see a doctor immediately
Antibiotics are not necessary
There are various opinions, some people are instantly cured with medication and others are not, but I believe that one way to ensure that important medication works well at critical times is to use natural products on a regular basis.