Whether skincare or food, going vegan is the new trend everyone is loving. Switching to natural plant-based goods in your skincare routine is not only good for the planet but also for your skin. Vegan face masks are one such way to incorporate these products in your skincare routine. They are designed for people who want to follow a cruelty-free, preferably plant-based skincare regimen. Simple to make and free of toxic chemicals and preservatives, they make your skin clear and beautiful. Here are some simple and effective vegan face masks handpicked for you.

What are vegan face masks?

“Vegan face masks are skincare products that exclude animal-derived ingredients, by-products, and testing. They include plant-based ingredients, essential oils, and natural extracts to nourish and rejuvenate the skin. Vegan face masks cater to individuals who follow a vegan lifestyle, have sensitive skin, or prefer natural skincare alternatives,” says dermatologist Dr DM Mahajan. These masks are free from animal products like honey, beeswax, lanolin, and collagen, making them suitable for vegans and those with animal-derived ingredient sensitivities.

According to a study published in the journal Food Quality in Preference, veganism is becoming more and more common worldwide. Veganism is a lifestyle that avoids the use of animal products in all forms. This includes food, clothing, and other personal items. Vegans choose to avoid animal products for ethical, environmental, or health reasons. For example, they may avoid eating meat, dairy, eggs, and honey, as well as products like leather, wool, and fur.

Try vegan face masks if you want to try environment friendly skincare products. Image courtesy: Freepik

What are the benefits of vegan face masks?

Here are some potential benefits of vegan masks, as explained by Dr Mahajan.

1. Gentle on skin

Vegan face masks are natural and gentle because they are made primarily from plant-based ingredients. These ingredients, such as fruits, vegetables, herbs, and essential oils, are typically free from harsh chemicals and preservatives often found in commercial skincare products. This natural composition makes vegan masks less likely to irritate or damage the skin, making them suitable for individuals with sensitive skin.

2. Rich in nutrients

Vegan face masks are nutrient-rich because they are made from plant-based ingredients that are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These natural compounds nourish and revitalise the skin, helping to improve its health and appearance. For example, avocado contains healthy fats that hydrate the skin, while turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and swelling.

3. Cost effective

Vegan face masks are cost-effective because they can be made at home with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen cabinet. This eliminates the need to purchase expensive commercial products. Additionally, many vegan skincare brands offer affordable alternatives to traditional luxury brands, making it easier to incorporate vegan face masks into your skincare routine without breaking the bank.

Best vegan face mask for clear and glowing skin

Here are some easy and effective vegan mask recipes you can use to get radiant and beautiful skin, as explained by the expert.

1. Oatmeal and banana mask

This soothing mask is perfect for those with sensitive skin. Oatmeal helps to gently exfoliate, absorb excess oil and protects your skin from harmful UV rays, as found in a study published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology. Bananas, on the other hand, hydrates and calms the redness on the skin.

Ingredients

• 1 banana
• 2 tablespoons of oatmeal

Method

• Mash 1 banana and mix with 2 tablespoons of oatmeal.
• Apply the mask to the face.
• Leave the mask for 15-20 minutes.
• Rinse it off with warm water.

2. Turmeric and coconut oil mask

Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, as found in a study published in the Drug, Design and Development Therapy, making it ideal for reducing redness and swelling. Coconut oil moisturises and nourishes the skin, leaving it soft and supple.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 2 tablespoons of coconut oi

Method

• Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil.
• Gently apply the mask to the face.
• Leave it for 10-15 minutes.
• Wash it off with warm water.

3. Avocado and honey mask

Avocado is rich in healthy fats that deeply hydrate the skin. Honey acts as a natural humectant, which helps moisturise the skin, as found in a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. This mask is ideal for those with dry or parched skin.

Ingredients

• Half avocado
• 1 tablespoon of honey

Method

• Mash half avocado and mix with honey.
• Gently apply it to the face.
• Leave the mask for 15-20 minutes.
• Wash it off with warm water.

4. Cucumber and aloe vera mask

Both cucumber and aloe vera have cooling and soothing properties, as found in these studies published in African Journal of Biotechnology and Discover Materials, making them excellent for calming acne-prone skin. They help to reduce inflammation, redness, and excess oil.

Ingredients

• 1 cucumber
• 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel

Method

• Grate cucumber and mix with 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel.
• Gently apply the mask to the face.
• Leave the mask for 10-15 minutes.
• Rinse it off with warm water.

5. Green tea and chamomile mask

Green tea and chamomile are packed with antioxidants that help to protect the skin from environmental damage. This mask can be used as a toner or a mask to brighten and revitalise the skin tone.

Ingredients

• Green tea bag
• Chamomile tea bag
• Water

Method

• Steep green tea and chamomile tea bags in some hot water.
• Let it cool down and apply as a toner or mask.
• Keep it for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it.

6. Pumpkin and cinnamon mask

Pumpkin contains enzymes that help to gently exfoliate the skin, removing dead cells and giving glowing and beautiful skin. Cinnamon stimulates blood flow, as found in a study published in the Archives of Medical Science - Atherosclerotic Diseases, promoting a healthy and glowing skin.

Ingredients

• Half pumpkin
• 1 tablespoon of cinnamon powder

Method

• Mix boiled pumpkin and mashed it with cinnamon powder.
• Gently apply it to the face.
• Leave the mask for 10-15 minutes.
• Wash it off with warm water.

7. Rosewater and glycerin mask

Rosewater helps to balance the skin's pH, while glycerin provides intense hydration, as found in a study published in the British Journal of Dermatology. This mask is ideal for those with combination or oily skin.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of rosewater
• 1 tablespoon of glycerin

Method

• Mix 1 tablespoon of rosewater and glycerin.
• Gently apply the mask to the face.
• Leave it for 10-15 minutes.
• Rinse it off with warm water.

Natural face masks with plant based ingredients can do wonders for your skin. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

Are there any side effects of using vegan face masks?

Generally, vegan face masks are safe on skin. However, here are some potential side effects that you need to look out for:

• Allergic reactions to plant-based ingredients, such as redness, itching, or hives.
• Skin irritation or redness due to sensitivity or allergic reactions.
• Clogged pores or acne if using comedogenic ingredients or not removing the mask properly.
• Interaction with other skincare products, such as exacerbating skin conditions or reducing product effectiveness.

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