What Are the Benefits of a Yogurt Mask?

Yogurt is a nutritious food that aids in digestion and provides minerals such as calcium and zinc for strong bones, teeth and immune system. Yogurt also has vast benefits when topically applied to the skin. Always remember when using yogurt on the face: Make sure that it is plain and has live active cultures for best results. Using a yogurt mask two to three times a week will keep skin healthy and glowing without having to buy expensive products that are full of chemicals and preservatives. Before conducting a yogurt facial mask, always wash the face with a mild soap to ensure the skin is clean.

Prevents Premature Aging

Yogurt contains lactic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid that helps to smooth rough, dry skin and prevent premature aging such as fine lines, wrinkles and age spots. A yogurt mask will also help to dissolve dead skin that is accumulating in the pores causing a dull and cakey appearance. The lactic acid will also close large pores giving skin a younger appearance. For this yogurt mask, use plain yogurt made with whole milk.

For an anti-aging and exfoliating treatment, apply a thick layer of plain whole yogurt to the skin and allow it to set for 20 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water.

Fights Acne

Yogurt has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, making it ideal for acne-prone skin. It is also rich in zinc, which is commonly known to aid in the healing of acne blemishes. It will help to naturally kill impurities that lead to breakouts, keeping the skin fresh and clean. For this yogurt mask, use plain yogurt made with skim milk.

For an anti-acne facial treatment, rub plain skim yogurt into blemishes and blemish-prone areas until the yogurt is in the skin. Allow the layer of yogurt to stay on the face for 30 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water.

Reduces Discoloration

Yogurt has a mild bleaching effect on the skin when used over time. A yogurt mask as ideal for skin that is blotchy and damaged due to environmental factors such as too much sun exposure. This is also an excellent and gentle treatment for age spots. Any type of plain yogurt (skim to whole) will work for skin discoloration.

For a tone-evening mask, apply a thin layer of plain yogurt to the face. It should be rubbed into the skin, but not to the degree of the anti-acne mask. Allow the yogurt to soak into the skin for 40 minutes and rinse well with lukewarm water.