Q&A for How to Make a Honey and Oatmeal Face Mask

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  • Question
    Are honey and oatmeal good for your face?
    R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH
    Board Certified Dermatologist
    Dr. R. Sonia Batra is a board certified Dermatologist and the Founder of Batra Dermatology based in Los Angeles, California. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Batra specializes in lasers, medical devices, patient and public medical education, and skin cancer research. She received her Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree in Public Health, and her Doctor of Medicine (MD) degrees from Harvard University. As a Rhodes Scholar, she earned a Master’s degree in Molecular Genetics at the University of Oxford. She completed her residency training in Dermatology at Stanford University. Dr. Batra has contributed and reviewed for the Journal of Dermatologic Surgery, the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, and JAMA Dermatology. She is also a co-host of CBS’ Emmy award-winning television show, The Doctors.
    Board Certified Dermatologist
    Expert Answer
    Honey and oatmeal both have anti-inflammatory properties that relieve skin. Honey also acts as a natural antibacterial.
  • Question
    Where can I get ground oatmeal?
    Community Answer
    If you cannot find it in the baking aisle or the cereal aisle, get regular oatmeal and grind it using a food processor, blender, or a coffee grinder.
  • Question
    Can this mask be used every day?
    Community Answer
    No, using the mask every day will dry out your skin. At most, use the mask 3 times a week and never 2 days in a row.
  • Question
    How long does it take a basic mask to clear the face of acne and pimples?
    Community Answer
    Most masks state 20 minutes each time, up to three times a week. Any more than that will really dry out your skin. As far as getting rid of acne and pimples, it depends on the severity.
  • Question
    Can I use regular oatmeal instead of ground oatmeal?
    Community Answer
    No.
  • Question
    Can this be made ahead of time and kept in an airtight container?
    Community Answer
    Yes, but you should use it within two days or it may go bad.
  • Question
    Is it okay to do the acne mask in the morning? I know most masks with lemon are recommended for use at night.
    Community Answer
    Like many acne treatments, the lemon juice makes your skin sensitive and prone to sun damage, letting your face rest overnight helps to avoid these issues. However if you are away from direct sunlight, or apply SPF 15 (on its own or via a foundation containing it), you should be fine.
  • Question
    When should I put on the soothing or acne mask, before or after showering? What would be better for my skin?
    Community Answer
    Both times will do good. However, after showering might be more convenient for you if that is when you moisturize and/or exfoliate. I also recommend using a moisturizer after you wash off the remains of the mask.
  • Question
    Can I use natural, honey flavored yogurt for the soothing mask?
    Community Answer
    Yes, you could, just add a little less honey into your mask because there is honey in the yogurt. If it is available, though, get the plain yogurt.
  • Question
    Can I use this mask more than once a day?
    Community Answer
    This would not be wise, because it would dry out your skin. You could use it 2-3 times a week, but I wouldn't use it more frequently than that.
  • Question
    How long can I store this for?
    Community Answer
    It is suggested that you use masks immediately for best results. Do not store them.
  • Question
    Do I have to use tea tree oil?
    KirstinKitten
    Community Answer
    No, you don't have to use it. Tea tree oil is very good for getting rid of acne though.
  • Question
    I don't have green tree oil. What can I do?
    Community Answer
    Buy tea tree oil and make sure you dilute it with water so as not to irritate your skin.
  • Question
    How many times a week should I use the soothing face mask?
    Community Answer
    Around once a week. If you do more, your skin might dry out, which doesn't feel very good.
  • Question
    Can I substitute lime for the lemon?
    Community Answer
    Yes. Limes and lemons are both acidic with the same antibacterial and skin properties. Lemons are considered slightly better, but limes can be used if no lemons are handy.
  • Question
    What type of honey should I use for these masks? Can I use the honey that comes in a bottle that is shaped like a bear?
    Community Answer
    Yes, bear-shaped bottles are generally considered safe. It's best if you use organic honey.
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