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What is an Oatmeal Mask?

Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel

An oatmeal mask is a kind of skin care product that is used to improve the complexion of the skin by removing dead skin cells and nourishing the skin. Depending on the way that the product is formulated and the other ingredients in the mask, an oatmeal mask may be used to fight acne, moisturize the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines in the skin, and make the skin feel softer. In general, an oatmeal mask can be used to balance and detoxify the skin, two processes that can help to fight a number of skin problems while also improving the overall tone and appearance of the skin. An oatmeal mask can even be used to treat razor burn.

Many skin care companies sell masks that include oatmeal as a main ingredient. The prices of these products vary quite a bit. Some masks cost just a few dollars, while some more expensive brands cost upwards of $50 USD for one bottle. With that extreme price range, it can be a bit difficult to choose the right oatmeal mask for one's skin type.

Oatmeal.
Oatmeal.

One of the best ways to choose an oatmeal mask is to find one that is indicated for specific skin issues that one would like to address. A person who is trying to clear up acne, for example, should choose an oatmeal mask that is labeled as being good for pimples and blemishes. For those who are simple trying to improve the overall tone and softness of the skin, a mask that both exfoliates and hydrates the skin is a good choice.

Honey can be added to the oatmeal mask for toning and moisturizing benefits.
Honey can be added to the oatmeal mask for toning and moisturizing benefits.

Some people find that the best oatmeal mask is one they can cook up right in the kitchen. In order to try this out, simply make a batch of oatmeal according to the instructions on the package. Allow the oatmeal to cool and then fold in one egg white. Once the mask is a good consistency, spread it over the face. Allow the mask to completely dry on the face before removing it with lukewarm water. This kind of oatmeal mask, which is less expensive per application than even the most affordable products on the market, can be used a few times per week in order to improve one's complexion and help to fight blemishes.

Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel

In addition to her work as a freelance writer for WiseGEEK, Diane is the executive editor of Black Lawrence Press, an independent publishing company based in upstate New York. She has also edited several anthologies, the e-newsletter Sapling, and The Adirondack Review. Diane has a B.A. from Sarah Lawrence College and an M.A. from Brooklyn College.

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Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel

In addition to her work as a freelance writer for WiseGEEK, Diane is the executive editor of Black Lawrence Press, an independent publishing company based in upstate New York. She has also edited several anthologies, the e-newsletter Sapling, and The Adirondack Review. Diane has a B.A. from Sarah Lawrence College and an M.A. from Brooklyn College.

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Discussion Comments

christym

I thought I would let you all know what the ingredients in this recipe are used for. The oatmeal soothes irritated skin. The fine grains of the sugar act as an exfoliator. The jojoba oil is an emollient used for soothing skin. Lemon juice has antiseptic properties and helps to remove discolorations. The comfrey root extract contains allantoin which is for skin repair and wound healing.

christym

@cellmania: I use a homemade oatmeal mask recipe that my mother gave me years ago. It works great. Each ingredient plays its own role in skin care. Here are the things you need: 3 Tbsp. oatmeal (rolled oats), 1 tsp. sugar, 1 Tbsp. Jojoba Oil, the juice of ½ lemon, and ½ oz. (14 drops) of Comfrey Root Extract.

You need to first pulverize the oatmeal. Mix the oatmeal and sugar in a bowl and then add the jojoba oil slowly while constantly stirring. Place a whole lemon in the microwave for 15 seconds (that helps to release the juice) and then cut the lemon in half. Squeeze the juice into the mixture. Add the comfrey root extract and stir again until smooth.

Apply the mixture to your face and leave on for about 15 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry.

CellMania

Does anyone have any more homemade oatmeal mask recipes that work good?

wesley91

Oatmeal makes a great facial mask. It is made from the seeds of the oat plant and then made into oatmeal. Oatmeal can even be made into a tea or extract to relieve nervous disorders. The fine powder that oatmeal is ground into, called colloidal oats, are super effective in relieving itching caused by hives or eczema. Oats also contain silicon which reduces the side of keloids on our skin.

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    • Oatmeal.
      Oatmeal.
    • Honey can be added to the oatmeal mask for toning and moisturizing benefits.
      By: Sergii Moscaliuk
      Honey can be added to the oatmeal mask for toning and moisturizing benefits.
    • An oatmeal and egg white mask may help fight pimples.
      By: Cheryl Casey
      An oatmeal and egg white mask may help fight pimples.
    • An oatmeal mask can be used to treat razor burn.
      By: April Cat
      An oatmeal mask can be used to treat razor burn.