The Magic of Matcha Facial Mask Powder
There is nothing more exciting than when I have a new product idea that works out exactly as I imagined. Sometimes the new products are pretty straight forward recipes. Some I have been using on my own family and tweaking for years. For some products, ingredients are super new to me. Because of that I have to do quite a bit of research. This new, all-in-one, Matcha Facial Mask Powder has definitely been a "labor of love" product that I am proud to put the Mani Chic name on!
I've known about the internal benefits of Matcha green tea for a long time but just in the last year started hearing about what it can do for your skin when used topically. Matcha is jam packed with amino acids, minerals and antioxidants. These are the very things needed to improve just about every aspect of skins appearance- tone, texture, fine lines, sun damage, etc. Not only that but tea is anti-inflammatory which means it fights off redness caused by blemishes and other irritants.
I could throw a lot of other big words out there like methylxanthines and epigallocatechin gallate. Those words are difficult to pronounce but the benefits are simple- improved elasticity, acne reduction, microcirculation for radiant skin, protection from UV damage. I can go on but I think you get the point.
Making a mask seemed like an obvious choice for how I would use this magical Matcha. I had to really think about what clay I wanted to pair it with though. I have tried many clay masks over the years but the ones I always come back to contain Kaolin. This one is particularly useful because not only does it fight excess oil but it actually helps manage dry skin, which we know is super important as we age. It is one of the most gentle clays so it is great for sensitive skin while still being an amazing weapon for fighting acne because it naturally detoxifies, exfoliates and tones. It has a neutral PH making is a great clay for all skin types.
The essential oil blend I chose is extensive and I won't bore you will all the details, just know that I have used oils known to firm, heal and tone skin. They are filled with anti-inflammatory and calming properties to boost cell regeneration and prevent scarring. Those oils are Frankincense, Sandalwood, Lavender, Helichrysum, Evening Primrose, Rosehip CO2, Pine, Geranium, Chamomile, Copaiba, Marigold, Gurjun Balsam, Rose, Vanilla CO2.
Of course I had to add the liquid gold known as Vitamin E. At this point we all know it's benefits but to name a few- it reduces dark spots, fine lines, and inflammation.
While I considered jarring this as a ready to use mask, I realized that the one way to make it even better was to leave it completely customizable. So, to use your mask powder do the following. Add approximately 1 teaspoons of Matcha Facial Mask Powder to a small bowl. To the powder add 1/4 teaspoon of water and 1/4 tsp of your favorite Mani Chic Cuticle and Skincare oil or any other oil of your choice (almond, olive, liquid coconut, jojoba, etc). Mix well. Measurements do not need to be exact but you want a runnier consistency rather than a thick paste. When you apply with your facial brush, makeup brush or even your fingers, you want to apply it fast enough that it doesn't dry out in the bowl. Allthe mask to dry and work it's magic for 10 minutes. Gently remove with a warm, damp cloth. Follow with your favorite serums, facials oil, balms, moisturizers, etc.
Remember how I mentioned it is fully customizable? Are you battling acne? Replace the water in this recipe for a really good apple cider vinegar. Preferably the kind with Mothers. Dry skin more of your issue? Swap the water for some extra oil.
Enjoy your beautifully, glowing skin!