Useful properties and contraindications of flaxseed face mask. Composition, recipes and rules for the use of these funds. Flaxseed face masks are an inexpensive and affordable tool that is as effective as expensive lifting systems. Thanks to the beneficial substances contained in the seed, such formulations rejuvenate and improve the appearance of the skin.
Useful properties of a flax seed mask
Linen face mask, when used correctly, will heal and improve the appearance of dry, aging, sensitive, pigmented skin. The beneficial substances contained in it have unique healing properties, and therefore such a remedy:
- Relieves inflammation and irritation … This is due to folic acid, which has an anti-inflammatory effect, and the vitamin-like substance choline, which soothes sensitive skin prone to increased irritability.
- Whitens and removes age spots … Flax seeds contain vitamin K1 or phylloquinone, which has a whitening effect.
- Rejuvenates the skin … Since they contain lignans and water-soluble vitamin B1 (thiamine), we can talk about the remarkable anti-aging properties of the product.
- Tightens the skin … This occurs under the influence of vitamin B3 (nicotinic acid, niacin), which helps to increase skin tone, as well as alpha-linoleic acid, which belongs to the omega-3 class of unsaturated fatty acids, which increases skin regeneration and strengthens local immunity.
- Moisturizes the skin … This property is possible due to the content of the same alpha-linoleic acid, which neutralizes the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation and helps to retain moisture in the deep layers of the epidermis.
It is interesting! The famous Frankish king Charlemagne considered flax to be such a healthy plant that by a special decree he obliged all his subjects to use it in order to prolong life. And modern researchers have proven that it is able to slow down the growth of tumors.
Contraindications to the use of flax seed masks
The flax seed mask has a strong moisturizing effect and is not suitable for those with oily skin, because it increases its greasiness. But it has no categorical health contraindications for external use. Even allergy sufferers can use flax and flax seeds for cosmetic purposes.
But there is always the possibility of an individual intolerance to both the flax seeds themselves and their combination with some component. Therefore, before using any cosmetic mask, be sure to test it. Just apply a little on the sensitive skin of the wrist, the crook of the elbow or behind the ear and wait a quarter of an hour. If there are no irritations and redness, then feel free to apply the mixture to the skin of the face.
Important! The unsaturated fatty acids of the omega-3 group contained in flax seeds, when stored improperly (under the influence of heat and light), are oxidized, forming peroxides harmful to the body, which have a carcinogenic effect. In the countries of Western Europe, it is for this reason that seemingly safe and healthy linseed oil is prohibited for sale.
The composition and components of flax seeds
Flaxseed, the main component of the mask, in terms of its biochemical composition, contains a large number of substances beneficial to human health:
- Omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids … Flax is the record holder for their content: 5 times more than in rapeseed and nuts! These acids are very important for the growth and proper functioning of living cells and the vascular system of the body. They reduce wrinkles by promoting collagen synthesis in the body.
- Lignans … These are plant phytoestrogens, hormone-like substances that are powerful antioxidants. They fight free radicals and prevent skin aging. In terms of their content, flaxseed is 75-80 times superior to any other plant products!
- Soluble and insoluble fiber … It binds toxins and heavy metals and helps to remove them from the body.
- Multivitamin complex … Phylloquinone, thiamine, niacin, choline, vitamin E prevent skin aging, improve its appearance and enhance regeneration.
- Macro and microelements … Selenium, potassium, manganese and magnesium relieve breakouts and wrinkles.
For the mask, take only fresh product purchased from the pharmacy. Grind it just before use, as whole flaxseeds are protected by a shell and keep better and longer than ground flaxseeds. Keep them in the refrigerator in an airtight, opaque package to prevent oxidation of nutrients.
Do not use seeds with a specific rancid odor and unpleasant bitter taste!
Flaxseed face mask recipes
Making a flaxseed mask is pretty simple. Both the main and all additional ingredients are available and inexpensive. To solve a problem that worries you, you can choose a suitable recipe:
Flax seed masks for face skin tightening
The lifting mask, which tightens the skin of the face, has a particularly beneficial effect on the fading flabby dermis, the pronounced effect is noticeable after fifteen procedures. Fine wrinkles are smoothed, facial muscles and neck skin are tightened. An important condition is that a cosmetic session should be carried out daily, without passes.
Here are some mask recipes for you to choose from:
- Monocomponent … Pour 1 teaspoon of flax seeds with boiling water (one third of a glass), stir and, covered with a kitchen towel, leave to infuse for at least 6 hours. During this time, the infusion will release mucus, which is applied, according to the rules for using linseed masks, in layers (there should be at least five of them), achieving a lifting effect.
- With white, blue or green cosmetic clay … This is a mask for normal and mixed skin types. Pour a glass of boiling water over 4 dessert spoons of flaxseed, simmer for 20 minutes in a water bath. Refrigerate and strain. Then add white clay (2 dessert spoons) and stir until smooth. Apply in one layer for 20 minutes, avoiding the skin around the eyes and mouth.
- With yellow, red or pink cosmetic clay … For dry, sensitive and aging skin. Grind 1 tbsp. a spoonful of seed, pour boiling water (a third of a glass), let it brew for 15 minutes and mix with 1 teaspoon of clay. Apply in an even layer, hold for 15 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water.
- With butter and honey … Pour 2 dessert spoons of seeds with half a glass of boiling water and boil a mass similar to jelly in a steam bath. Let cool and strain, add 2 dessert spoons of vegetable oil and 1 teaspoon of liquid honey, mix and apply on face for 15 minutes. Rinse off, alternating between warm and cold water, finish contrasting wash with cold water.
Please note! You can use all of the flaxseed masks described above to tighten both the face and the neck and décolleté.
Flaxseed eye mask
Usually, cosmetologists do not recommend affecting the delicate skin around the eyes, but flax seed is unique in that masks with it can be used in this area.
There are several options for such tools:
- With cream … Pour 2 dessert spoons of seed with one glass of boiling water and keep in a water bath for 15 minutes, refrigerate and strain. Then take 2 dessert spoons of flaxseed slime and mix with heavy cream (2 dessert spoons). After stirring until smooth, apply this mass around the eyes for 20 minutes. Then remove the mask with a paper towel and wash with cool water.
- With cocoa and banana … Brew 2 dessert spoons of flaxseed with a glass of boiling water, strain and add cocoa powder (1 coffee spoon), stir. Whisk half a banana with a blender until puree and mix with cocoa-linseed gruel. Apply the mass to the area around the eyes and hold for half an hour, then wash with warm water.
- With butter … 1 tbsp. pour a spoonful of seeds with half a glass of boiling water, boil for 15 minutes. Remove the resulting slimy mass from heat, cool and strain. K 2 tbsp. tablespoons of flaxseed slime, add 1 tbsp. a spoonful of butter (pre-keep it warm to soften). Mix well and apply a thick layer on the area around the eyes for 20 minutes, and then wash off the mask with warm water.
Remember! Only freshly prepared flaxseed masks are effective. It is not recommended to store them in the refrigerator in reserve.
Rejuvenating flax seed masks
Regular use of masks containing flaxseed gives a rejuvenating effect on the skin of the face. It softens, wrinkles are smoothed out, the main thing is to do the procedure regularly. And in order not to get tired of the monotony, change the recipes for masks
- Monocomponent … Grind flaxseeds into flour, 2 tbsp. pour spoons of this powder with boiling water so that it completely covers them, and leave for half an hour. Then apply the resulting mass on your face for 20 minutes and rinse it off with warm water.
- Decoction mask … Pour 2 teaspoons of flaxseed with hot water (1/2 cup) and cook for 15 minutes. Then cool and strain. Apply to skin in layers (5 or more) and rinse off after a quarter of an hour.
- Infusion mask … Pour a glass of boiling water over 1 tbsp. a spoonful of seeds, cover with a towel or lid and leave for 1 hour. Suck and apply in layers on the face. Wash your face after 20 minutes.
- With honey … Make an infusion, as in the recipe above, and add 1 teaspoon of peach oil and 1 tbsp. a spoonful of honey.
- With chamomile … Add chamomile infusion (1 tablespoon) to the infusion-mask and apply in layers on the skin.
- With vegetable oil … 2 tbsp. tablespoons of flaxseeds crushed into flour, pour 4 tbsp. tablespoons of unrefined vegetable oil and insist in a dark glass bottle for ten days. Before use, pour out the amount you need and reheat, store the rest in the refrigerator without access to air and light. Layer.
- With sage … Grind 6 dessert spoons of flaxseeds and pour hot sage broth (10 dessert spoons), leave for half an hour, then add argan oil and apply in layers on your face. Leave the mask on for 30 minutes and rinse off with warm water.
- With calendula … Brew 2 dessert spoons of calendula flowers with a glass of boiling water and leave for half an hour. Then strain and add 2 dessert spoons of flaxseed, ground into flour. Let it brew again. When it swells, add 1 teaspoon of honey and potato starch (2 dessert spoons). Apply in layers, leave on for 20 minutes and rinse off.
Remember! You can steam flax seeds with hot infusions and herbal decoctions of your choice.
Flaxseed Moisturizing Facial Masks
If you want to moisturize your overly dry skin, there is nothing better than flaxseed masks. Thanks to the alpha-linoleic acid it contains, they perfectly nourish the dermis.
Choose a recipe to your liking:
- With olive oil … Brew 2 tbsp. tablespoons of ground flax seeds with one glass of boiling water and leave for half an hour. Add honey (1 teaspoon) and 1 tbsp to the resulting mass. spoon of olive oil, stir. Apply to skin in layers, leave on for 15 minutes. Wash yourself alternately with warm and cool water.
- With sour cream … Powder from 2 tbsp. tablespoons of flaxseed, mix with 2 tbsp. spoons of sour cream. Insist 20 minutes. Apply to face for the same time and rinse with warm water.
- Lotion mask with essential oils … 1 tbsp. chop a spoonful of seeds, pour boiling water (half a glass). Insist for 6 hours, strain, and then add 2 drops of chamomile and orange aromatic oils. Pour into a dark glass bottle and keep cold. Within a week (cannot be stored longer), wipe your face with this lotion at night.
Please note! If you get too much product, pamper your décolleté, neck, and hands, elbows, knees and legs with a cosmetic procedure.
Flax seed masks for problem skin
Flaxseed can be a crucial weapon in the fight against acne and skin irritations. It is easy to prepare masks from it that help get rid of such problems.
Mask recipes:
- With oat flakes … Prepare a mask with a gentle scrubbing effect to cleanse, soften and nourish the skin. To do this, grind flaxseeds to a powdery state. 1 tbsp. a spoonful (without a slide) of small oatmeal, mix with 1 tbsp. spoon of this powder. Pour hot milk over everything to cover the top. After 15 minutes, stir the gruel and, applying it on your face, massage the skin with your fingertips for two minutes, as if rubbing it. Then put another layer of the mask and leave for a quarter of an hour. Remove the mixture, wash with warm water and spread the cream on your face.
- With milk … Boil flax seeds in milk until soft, cool and form into small cakes. Apply them to the inflamed skin for 20 minutes.
- With chamomile … Boil flaxseed powder with boiling water, leave to infuse for 15 minutes. Then add a little chamomile decoction. Moisten a tissue napkin in the resulting composition. Apply it to problem areas of the skin for 20 minutes.
In general, flaxseed masks are not recommended for owners of oily skin. Their frequent use (namely, with this, these funds give the rejuvenating effect desired by many) can unnecessarily moisturize the oily dermis and make it even more greasy. But occasionally, its owners can pamper themselves with a cleansing lifting mask made from flaxseed.
Take 2 dessert spoons of ground seeds and mix with oatmeal. Fill with mineral water without gas to make a viscous slurry. Put a bowl with it on low heat and boil. Remove from heat immediately and leave for half an hour. Apply the mask to your face with a cotton pad and keep it on for 15 minutes. This mixture nourishes it and eliminates pustules, normalizing sebaceous discharge.
Flaxseed masks for age spots
Such masks will help eliminate the greasy shine on the skin and lighten age spots:
- With kefir … Stir 2 tbsp. tablespoons of flax seeds, ground into powder, with the same amount of oatmeal and pour kefir until a thick mass. Let it brew for 15 minutes. Apply the mask to your face for 20 minutes.
- With curdled milk … Mix equal amounts of flaxseed powder and fine oatmeal and add some curdled milk. Form a cake and apply it to the pigmented area for 15-20 minutes.
Rules for using a flax seed mask
In order for a flax seed mask to have all of the above useful properties, it should be prepared and used, following simple rules:
- Avoid high temperatures … Heat treatment of seeds is permissible, but you should not be zealous. A prolonged and significant increase in temperature will lead to a partial loss of their healing properties.
- Grind the seeds … Dry - in a coffee grinder or at least in a mortar, as in the old days, and steamed and soaked - in a blender. This will help your skin absorb significantly more nutrients.
- Cleanse your skin … Before applying the mask, be sure to wash yourself with warm water and get rid of impurities and cosmetics so that nothing prevents the active ingredients from acting on your skin.
- Apply in layers … Soak a cotton pad well and rub it gently over your face, avoiding the delicate area around your eyes. Wait for it to dry and apply another coat. Repeat this procedure five times. After creating each layer, your skin is slightly tightened and fixed in this position with a drying mask. And the active substances, being absorbed, increase blood circulation and are delivered to where they are required for regeneration and recovery processes.
- Don't move … For 10-15 minutes after applying the mask, lie down on a flat surface, without moving or using facial expressions, slightly stretching your neck.
- Prepare … Steaming flax seeds for preparation is best in the morning, before leaving for work. By the evening they will be completely ready, and you can arrange a beauty salon for yourself at home. Having done everything necessary in advance, you will not give yourself a chance to refuse the procedure, dissuading yourself from fatigue and lack of time. This is important because regular use is very important to get the positive effect of such masks.
Try it! Great music that you can listen to while relaxing with a mask on your face is Vivaldi's "Seasons" suite. It will relieve you of fear, improve your memory and fill you with confidence. And Beethoven's "Ode to Joy" and "Moonlight Sonata" will restore mental balance, dissolve sadness and depression. How to make a face mask from flax seeds - watch the video:
Using a linen mask, you will tidy up your skin and forget about pigmentation and irritations. Having tried this wonderful remedy just once, you will immediately feel a positive effect, and after a course of several procedures, you will notice a lasting result: the skin will rejuvenate and tighten, it will become smooth and elastic, enlarged pores will narrow, keratinized particles of the epithelium will be removed, acne will disappear.
