Reviewed by Dr. Judith Thompson, ACHS Dean of Herbal Medicine
There’s something indulgent about treating yourself to a spa day. But what if you could enjoy the benefits of a nourishing facial without leaving your home? DIY herbal face masks offer a natural, affordable, and customizable way to pamper your skin. Using simple, plant-based ingredients, you can create blends that soothe, cleanse, hydrate, and refresh, bringing the spa experience into your own bathroom.
Why Herbal Face Masks?
Herbal face masks combine the therapeutic properties of botanicals with the nurturing ritual of self-care. Herbs like chamomile (Matricaria recutita), lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), and calendula (Calendula officinalis) are rich in natural compounds that can help calm the skin and provide a gentle glow. Plus, when you craft your own masks, you control exactly what goes on your skin and avoid synthetic fragrances, dyes, or unnecessary additives.
Ready to get started? Here are four easy herbal face mask recipes you can try at home.
1. Soothing Chamomile & Oat Mask
Perfect for sensitive or irritated skin, this blend calms and gently nourishes.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon finely ground rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon dried chamomile flowers Matricaria recutita
- 1–2 teaspoons warm water or aloe vera gel
Instructions
Grind the oats and chamomile together into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle. Mix with water or aloe vera gel until a smooth paste forms. Apply to a clean face for 10–15 minutes, avoiding the eye area. Rinse with lukewarm water.
2. Calming Lavender & Oat Face Mask
This soothing mask gently exfoliates and supports soft, refreshed, and nourished skin.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons dried lavender flowers Lavandula angustifolia
- 2 tablespoons of rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon raw honey (optional, for hydration and antibacterial properties)
- 2–3 teaspoons plain yogurt or aloe vera gel
Instructions
Grind the dried lavender flowers and oats into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle. In a small bowl, combine the lavender powder and oats. Add honey if using, then mix in the yogurt or aloe vera gel, a little at a time, until you form a smooth paste. Apply to a clean face for 10–15 minutes, avoiding the eye area. Rinse with lukewarm water.
3. Calendula Soothing Face Mask
This gentle mask supports calm, hydrated skin and promotes a healthy, radiant complexion.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons dried calendula flowers Calendula officinalis
- 1 tablespoon plain yogurt
- 1 teaspoon raw honey (for hydration and antibacterial properties)
- 1 teaspoon aloe vera gel (optional, for extra soothing)
Instructions
Grind the dried calendula flowers into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle. In a small bowl, combine the calendula powder, yogurt, and honey. Mix until a smooth paste forms. If using, add the aloe vera gel for extra cooling effects. Apply to a clean face for 10–15 minutes, avoiding the eye area. Rinse with lukewarm water.
4. Hydrating Rose & Avocado Mask
This mask is deeply moisturizing and rejuvenating for dry skin types.
Ingredients
- ½ ripe avocado, mashed
- 1 teaspoon dried rose petals Rosa centifolia (crushed)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil or jojoba oil
Instructions
Mash the avocado until smooth. Stir in the crushed rose petals and oil. Apply to a clean face for 10–15 minutes, avoiding the eye area. Rinse with lukewarm water.
Safety Precautions
Before trying any DIY face mask, always do a small patch test on your inner arm before applying a new recipe to your face to check for sensitivities or allergic reactions. Be sure to use clean utensils and fresh ingredients, and avoid applying masks to broken or irritated skin.
Learn More About Quality Herbs
To create your own spa-worthy face masks, start with the best ingredients. The Apothecary Shoppe, the official store of ACHS, offers premium quality herbs, clays, and wellness products perfect for DIY skin care. With a little creativity and high-quality botanicals, glowing skin is just a blend away!
And if this inspires you to learn more about the science and tradition of herbal medicine, explore Herbal Medicine programs at ACHS. Whether you’re looking to deepen your personal wellness knowledge or pursue a career in holistic health, ACHS offers accredited, flexible, online programs designed for your goals.
This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be medical advice. Always use herbs and essential oils with caution and keep out of reach of children. Use particular caution when pregnant or nursing. Always check contraindications and think safety first! The statements herein have not been evaluated by the FDA. Products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.
