7 DIY chocolate face masks for glowing and radiant skin

Not only is chocolate a super delicious treat for your taste buds, it can also be a useful addition to your skincare routine. While you might not be very big on applying chocolate to your face as you may envision a sticky concoction, it can be quite beneficial for the appearance of your skin. Packed with the power of cocoa to nourish and refresh your skin, chocolate is high in antioxidants, which help counteract free radical damage and leave your skin looking vibrant and youthful. This delicious wonder moisturises deeply, promotes circulation, and evens skin tone while high in vitamins and minerals. Wondering how to use chocolate for your face? Here are some simple chocolate face mask recipes that can be whipped up in seconds, and provide a spa-like feeling without the high cost.

What is a chocolate face mask?

A chocolate face mask is a beauty remedy made with cocoa powder or melted dark chocolate, often combined with other natural ingredients such as honey, yoghurt, or oatmeal. Due to the antioxidants, flavonoids, and fatty acids found in cocoa, these masks are thought to provide various skin advantages, as found in a study published in the Journal of Physics Conference Series. These elements may aid in moisturising the skin, enhancing circulation, protecting against UV rays, and evening out skin tone.

Benefits of chocolate face mask

Here are some potential benefits of chocolate face masks due to the presence of antioxidants, flavonoids, and fatty acids in cocoa.

1. Hydrates the skin

Chocolate face mask is an easy way to hydrate your skin. Cocoa butter, a key ingredient, is rich in fatty acids. These fatty acids act like a protective barrier on your skin, helping to trap moisture and prevent dryness. This deep hydration can leave your skin feeling supple and smooth, as found in a study published in the journal Nutrients. Additionally, other natural oils often included in these masks, such as coconut oil or olive oil, contribute to the moisturising effect. These oils can penetrate the skin and provide essential nutrients, further enhancing the hydrating benefits of the mask.

2. Improve circulation

Applying and removing a chocolate face mask involves gentle massaging motions. “This massage stimulates the underlying muscles and improves blood circulation in the skin. Increased blood flow delivers more oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells, promoting a healthy glow,” says dermatologist Dr DM Mahajan. This enhanced circulation can also help to flush out toxins and cellular waste, leaving your skin looking refreshed and revitalised. The gentle pressure from the massage may also help to reduce puffiness and under-eye circles temporarily.

3. Protect against sun damage

Cocoa contains many antioxidants, including flavonoids and polyphenols. These potent substances can help shield your skin from the harmful effects of free radicals, as found in a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. The free radicals are unstable chemicals that can harm skin cells, causing accelerated ageing, wrinkles, and loss of softness. Cocoa contains antioxidants that function as scavengers, neutralising free radicals and preventing them from creating oxidative stress. This antioxidant protection might help you keep a youthful and healthy complexion.

7 must-try chocolate face mask recipes

Here are some easy and effective chocolate face mask recipes you can try to achieve clear and radiant skin.

1. Classic chocolate and honey

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon of honey

Instructions:

• Mix cocoa powder and honey into a smooth paste.
• Apply evenly to the face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
• Leave on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

2. Chocolate and yoghurt

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons of plain yoghurt

Instructions:

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• Combine cocoa powder and yoghurt in a bowl.
• Apply the mixture to your face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
• Leave on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.

3. Chocolate and coffee

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon of coffee grounds
• 2 tablespoons of plain yoghurt

Instructions:

• Mix all ingredients to form a smooth paste.
• Apply evenly to your face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
• Leave on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

4. Chocolate and oatmeal

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon of ground oatmeal
• 1 tablespoon of honey

Instructions:

• Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
• Apply the mixture to your face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
• Leave on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

5. Chocolate and clay mask

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon of bentonite clay
• 1 tablespoon of water

Instructions:

• Mix all ingredients to form a smooth paste.
• Apply the mixture to your face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
• Leave on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

6. Chocolate and avocado

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
• 1/4 avocado (mashed)
• 1 tablespoon of honey

Instructions:

• Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
• Apply the mixture to your face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
• Leave on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

7. Dark chocolate face mask

Ingredients:

• 1 dark chocolate (70% or higher)
• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon of honey

Instructions:

• Melt the dark chocolate in a double boiler.
• Add coconut oil and honey and stir well.
• Let the mixture cool slightly before applying to your face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
• Leave on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

Important Note: Always do a patch test on a small area of skin before applying any new face mask to rule out any potential allergies or sensitivities. If you suffer from sensitive skin or other skin-related problems, make sure to consult a dermatologist before including this in your beauty routine.