Herbal face masks have been part of Indian beauty rituals for generations. Many are made from simple dried powders mixed with water, rose water, yoghurt or honey, and they're easy to make at home. Here are six traditional powders to try, with a simple recipe for each.
Please note: these masks are simple, homemade face masks for pampering. They are not skin-lightening products, and we don't recommend using any ingredient to lighten your skin.
Before you start
- Patch test: apply a little of the mixed mask to the inside of your elbow and wait 48 hours before using it on your face.
- Keep masks away from your eyes and lips, and don't use them on broken or sore skin.
- Rinse off with lukewarm water and follow with a moisturiser.
- Mix only what you need, and use a mask once or twice a week.
1. Rose petal powder
Made from dried, ground rose petals, with a soft floral scent. Try: mix 1 tablespoon with rose water or plain yoghurt to a smooth paste, apply for 10 to 15 minutes and rinse. Shop rose petal powder
2. Neem powder
Made from the dried leaves of the neem tree, with a strong, herbal smell. Try: mix 1 teaspoon with rose petal powder and water, apply for 10 minutes and rinse. Shop neem powder
3. Turmeric powder
The golden spice, used in Indian bridal face masks known as ubtan. Try: mix a pinch with gram flour and yoghurt, apply for 10 minutes and rinse. Use only a small amount: turmeric can leave a temporary yellow tint on skin and will stain fabrics. Shop turmeric powder
4. Manjistha powder
Made from the dried root of the Indian madder plant, a traditional ingredient in Ayurvedic skincare with a deep red colour. Try: mix 1 teaspoon with honey and rose water, apply for 10 minutes and rinse. Shop manjistha powder
5. Orange peel powder
Dried, ground orange peel with a fresh citrus scent and a slightly gritty texture. Try: mix 1 teaspoon with yoghurt and honey, massage in gently, leave for 10 minutes and rinse. Citrus can make some skin more sensitive, so patch test first and avoid using it before sun exposure. Shop orange peel powder
6. Bentonite clay
A soft volcanic clay and a popular base for homemade masks. It combines well with any of the powders above. Try: mix 1 tablespoon with water and a pinch of rose petal powder, apply for 5 to 15 minutes and rinse. See our full guide to how to use bentonite clay. Shop bentonite clay
What to mix herbal powders with
- Rose water: light and fragrant
- Plain yoghurt: creamy and easy to spread
- Honey: sticky and rich
- Aloe vera gel: cool and smooth
- Water: the simplest option
These powders are for external use in face masks only. Don't eat or drink them unless the product page says the powder is a food.
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