Summer activities are great, but summer acne? Not so much. If this season causes your skin to stress out, a soothing mask might be in order.

However, instead of turning to a premade formula from a cosmetics store, why not make your own mask? Using natural ingredients, it’s simple to soothe, moisturize, and refresh your face throughout the summer.

Here are some of our favourite ingredients for natural facemasks. Whether you have dry, oily, or sensitive skin, there’s a natural formula out there for you. Have fun experimenting with your own homemade masks this summer!

Turmeric

Your favourite bright yellow spice can do more than amp up your favourite recipes. Turmeric is also a natural anti-inflammatory, making it a great treatment for your pesky summer acne.

To apply your own turmeric face mask, first spread a thin coat of apple cider vinegar over your face. Then, mix half a teaspoon of turmeric powder with 1 tablespoon of honey, and spread the mixture over the vinegar layer. Leave for 10-15 minutes, then rinse. Hint: If your skin takes on a yellow tint from the turmeric, soak a cotton ball in milk and wipe it across the coloured spots to make them disappear.

Aloe vera

We can’t get enough of aloe vera! Aloe vera gel has a plethora of benefits, and acne-fighting power is one of them. An aloe honey mask is the perfect summer treat—soothing, cool, and refreshing on a hot evening at home.

You can buy aloe gel from your local drug store or harvest your own by cutting off a branch of your aloe vera plant at home. Then, combine 2 tablespoons of gel with 1 tablespoon of plain yogurt and 1 tablespoon of honey to make your mask. Apply the mixture evenly over your face and leave for 10-15 minutes before rinsing.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is another fantastic natural anti-inflammatory that you can easily find in your pantry. For added healing properties, combine it with mashed apples, which gently exfoliate through with their natural acidity. 

To make an oatmeal apple mask, combine half a cup of cooked oatmeal, one beaten egg, and half of a mashed apple in a bowl. Apply to your face, massaging in gentle circles to exfoliate. Leave the mask for 15 minutes, then rinse.

Squash

Butternut squash has brightening properties that can perk up even the most irritated, blemish-prone skin. 

To make your own brightening mask, toss half a cup of chopped butternut squash in the blender. Then, add a beaten egg to help firm your skin and a tablespoon of honey for hydration. Blend together, spread over the skin, and relax for 15-20 minutes. Rinse, and enjoy your smooth, brightened complexion.

Matcha

With soothing anti-inflammatory abilities as well as anti-ageing properties, matcha is the perfect solution for redness and angry acne-ridden skin.

To soothe stress and irritation in one fell swoop, combine one teaspoon of matcha powder with two tablespoons of aloe gel. The result will be a tantalizingly smooth green mask that will go on like a dream. Leave for 10 – 15 minutes to allow your skin to soak up the benefits, then rinse and pat dry.