Masks based on alginic acid salts should be in the home arsenal of every woman who has crossed the 30-year mark. Compositions with alginates actively moisturize and tighten the skin of the face, which is why alginate masks are most popular as remedies against signs of aging. In beauty salons, a single session will cost a couple of thousand rubles, and performing the procedure at home is 10 times cheaper.
Alginate mask: what is it?
In 1981, the English biochemist Moore Stanford obtained a by-product when extracting iodine from seaweed. It turned out to be sodium alginate. Further tests proved that as a result of the interaction of the substance with water, a gel is obtained, which contains many useful substances and minerals.
Due to its special properties, alginate acid quickly found application in cosmetology. To take advantage of all its benefits, you need to know exactly how to use the product correctly.
How to dilute an alginate face mask? This will be discussed later in the article, but now it is necessary to consider all its beneficial properties.
Currently, sodium alginate is industrially extracted from red and brown algae to be used as face masks. More recently, such a procedure could only be done in a beauty salon; now the gel for preparing the product is sold in many cosmetics stores.
Rules for application and removal
Each cosmetic product, be it a turmeric face mask or preparations based on sour cream, starch or oatmeal, has its own fundamental rules for application. Only by taking them into account responsibly will you be able to achieve the desired result in the future, without upsetting yourself with the appearance of uncomfortable conditions and a number of other unpleasant moments.
And then we will try to break down the basic principles of applying alginate products “on the shelves”. Note that the beginning of any procedure is a thorough cleansing of the face from cosmetics, dust and dirt. Having completed it, you can begin other targeted actions.
How to breed
We noted earlier that the alginate mask is available to the consumer in powder form. It must be diluted with clean water at room temperature in a 1:1 ratio. It is important that there are no lumps in your composition . The consistency of the preparation should resemble thick sour cream.
Note! Quite often, pearl dust is added to alginate masks. With its help, the drug obtains a whitening effect and helps normalize the condition of the skin.
How to apply
Keep in mind the fact that you need to apply the cosmetic product quickly, as it dries quickly. Use a special spatula for this process. The application process itself involves following massage lines.
How long to keep
To ensure that the product acts on the surface of your skin correctly and does not leave any negative consequences, try not to overexpose it. Just a session of 10-15 minutes is enough , and you will really feel the result.
How to shoot
After application, the alginate mask dries, gradually turning into a small layer of rubber. In cosmetology, this effect is called plasticization. It is thanks to him that the drug does not require the fair sex to endure prolonged suffering with rinsing.
The formula can be removed from the surface of the skin with a slight movement of the hand. Lead your hand from the chin up. This is the easiest way to get rid of the maximum amount of active formula on your face in one go. Next, you can treat the surface of the dermis with a moisturizing or nourishing cream.
How often can you do it
To achieve your goal and consolidate the result, try to complete at least 8-15 sessions. It is allowed to use cosmetic products of this type 2-3 times a week . Choose your cycle in accordance with the recommendations of experienced cosmetologists or based directly on the condition of your skin.
Beneficial features
Alginate masks have the following positive effects on the face:
- relieve inflammation;
- nourish the skin and restore its protective function;
- constrict blood vessels, causing minor irritations to disappear;
- remove harmful substances;
- normalize the balance of minerals at the cellular level;
- break down excess fat, which effectively eliminates double chin;
- improve complexion;
- eliminate swelling;
- get rid of wrinkles and folds;
- make the skin elastic and smooth.
To get only the benefits of the procedure, you need to properly prepare the product and know how to dilute the alginate mask.
Indications for use
Alginate mask is used in the following situations:
- Dry, oily or atonic skin.
- Age-related changes in the dermis.
- Premature aging of the skin.
- Large pigment spots.
- Dermatoses.
- The presence of scars, cicatrices and stretch marks.
- Cuperosis.
- Excess body fat.
- Acne treatment.
In order to get rid of these skin problems, you need to properly prepare the product and apply it to your face. But before you figure out how to dilute an alginate mask at home, you should find out its types.
Mechanism of action of alginic acid salts
The cosmetic industry has opted for sodium alginate, which is an absolutely harmless substance and has all the necessary properties for making masks. This substance is capable of binding water in volumes that are many times greater than its mass.
By mixing alginate with water, you get a gel-like substance that is saturated with water, a large amount of nutrients and minerals, and vitamins. When applying the gel to the face, it fills the slightest wrinkles, moisturizing and nourishing the skin. After 5-6 minutes, the gel hardens and forms a film on the face - this is how lifting occurs with the help of an alginate mask.
During the use of this type of mask, it was noticed that if active substances (serums) are applied to the affected area before using it, their effectiveness will increase several times. After hardening, the mask can be easily removed, leaving the skin moisturized and renewed.
Types of alginate masks
A large number of cosmetics are produced based on alginate acid. In addition to sodium alginate, they contain diatomite - rock layers consisting of the remains of armored algae from the family of seaweeds. To obtain a cosmetic product with different effects on the skin, manufacturers add other components with a specific effect.
Depending on the composition, alginate masks are as follows:
- Classic. It contains only basic components. Before applying to the facial skin, the product is mixed with mineral water or a special hypoallergenic serum. The mask has a tightening and moisturizing effect.
- Rejuvenating. The product contains components that give the skin firmness and elasticity.
- Moisturizing. The mask additionally contains chitosan, which is extracted from the shell of crustaceans. This product is ideal for dry skin.
- Brightening. The mask can get rid of age spots due to the presence of ascorbic acid in the composition.
To obtain benefits, natural ingredients are added to cosmetic products. These include ginger, green tea, chamomile, aloe and others.
Selection rules
Alginate masks are sold in disposable packages of 20-30 grams, or in large packages of 300 grams or more, which in most cases are used in salons. Both options are suitable for home skin care.
You can buy several products that differ in composition and, accordingly, mechanism of action, but they should help solve exactly your problem:
- For those with oily skin prone to rashes and acne, an alginate mask with the addition of tea tree oil is suitable. It has a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect, normalizes the microflora on the skin, and dries it out.
- For sensitive skin with signs of rosacea, you should choose a product containing vitamin C. Ascorbic acid has a vasoconstrictor effect, soothes and brightens the epidermis.
- For dry, overly dehydrated skin, a course of masks containing hyaluronic acid in addition to alginate is necessary. Such compositions optimally moisturize and activate the production of elastin and collagen.
Advantages
Before diluting an alginate mask, you need to know about some of its advantages. So, it is suitable for any skin type. It has virtually no contraindications. After using the product, the positive effect will instantly be reflected on the skin. In addition, the advantages of the mask are:
- Guaranteed positive result. Wrinkles and folds are smoothed out. Skin looks fresher and more elastic. Pores become smaller.
- Availability of the product. Powder for making a mask can be bought at any pharmacy.
- Such cosmetics are a conductor of beneficial substances. They greatly enhance the effect of various tonics, serums and creams.
The product has great benefits. A similar procedure is carried out in any beauty salon, because the positive effect of its use is immediately noticeable.
Before preparing the product at home, you need to familiarize yourself with the intricacies of the process. And then we will find out how to properly dilute the alginate mask.
How to prepare the product?
As a professional facial skin care product, an alginate mask belongs to salon procedures. Its cost ranges from 200 to 2000 rubles. When you use the mask yourself, no problems arise, so it can be used at home with the same success.
Products sold in pharmacies or specialty stores are manufactured in the form of a substance. They must be diluted before applying to the face.
They can be packaged in one bag or in a large package. Before use, the mask is selected taking into account skin problems. In the future, only this is used.
So, in what proportions and how to dilute an alginate face mask? The correct ratio must be maintained. To prepare a basic mask, take sodium alginate (3 teaspoons) and 60 ml of warm water.
Let us immediately note what kind of water to dilute the alginate mask with - it should be mineral. But instead, in some cases, the product is diluted with lotion or hypoallergenic serum. The liquid should be at room temperature.
Sodium alginate powder is placed in a bowl, diluted with water and mixed thoroughly. Then cover with a napkin and leave for 5-6 hours until a homogeneous gel-like mass forms.
Making your own masks
The most popular industrial compositions with alginates are produced by Russian companies Teana and Ecolab . Powdered mixtures are sold in large packages at prices ranging from 600 to 800 rubles; one package is enough for an entire course.
You can’t buy industrial gels and powders in every store; they are usually bought online. If this is not possible, an alginate mixture can be made from pharmaceutical products and analogues.
Basic home recipe
The main active ingredient is sodium alginate. It cannot be replaced by anything, and you will have to make an effort to find and buy it. Places where alginate acid salts are sold: pharmacies, cosmetic stores, food supplement suppliers.
In pharmacies, alginates are most often sold in tablet form rather than powder. Tablets are not suitable for making masks. The average price for alginate powder is from 300 rubles per 100 g. To prepare a mask once, you will need about 2 grams, so this volume will last for a long time.
How to apply the mask?
How to dilute and apply an alginate mask? It’s quite simple to make: you just need to combine sodium alginate with mineral water in a 1:2 ratio. Once you have a homogeneous mass, you can add additional components (chamomile extract, essential oils, etc.) and mix thoroughly. Basic rules and recommendations for the procedure:
- The product is applied to clean skin. Before applying the mask, you can use tonic, lotion or pre-peeling.
- Under the mask, especially the eye and neck area, the skin must be treated with serum or a mixture of oils. Lubricate eyebrows and eyelashes with rich cream.
- The procedure is best performed in a lying or standing position, but the head should be tilted back. The face should be in a relaxed state.
- For one application, 20-25 g of product is enough. It is applied along the massage lines with a spatula or brush. The process must be carried out quickly until the mask hardens. You can use the help of an outsider.
- After 5-7 minutes, the product will begin to thicken and acquire the density of rubber. It is best to apply nourishing cream to the edges, which will make it easier to remove the mask.
- The procedure lasts 20-30 minutes. And then the mask is removed from bottom to top.
- The face is wiped with a tonic that soothes the skin. Then lubricate with nourishing cream.
The frequency of use of this mask depends on the type of skin. A positive result is noticed after the first procedure. Cosmetologists advise making masks for skin rejuvenation 2 times a week for 2-3 months. After 6-10 procedures, a break is required. This allows you to consolidate the positive result and prevent addiction.
Recipes for the best masks with alginate
Before making masks with alginate and additives, you should conduct an allergy test.
Lifting effect: mask with hyaluronic acid
It will help cope with aging skin sagging, sagging, decreased tone and swelling. For her:
- Alginate – 2 tsp. pour 4 tbsp. l. water.
- Hylauronic acid – 10 drops, mix into the composition.
- Apply to face for 30 minutes.
- Remove the mask and apply nourishing cream.
Laminaria with alginate for mature skin
- Mix 5 grams of alginate powder with 3 tbsp. l. warm water, let it swell.
- Combine blue cosmetic clay with 1.5 tsp. dilute kelp powder with water: 3.5 tbsp. l.
- Combine both compositions together, bring the mixture to a homogeneous state and distribute over the skin.
Alginate with pearl powder
This mask will help prevent aging, make the skin tight and elastic.
- 2 grams of alginate pour 1.5 tbsp. l. water and stir.
- Separately, combine 6 grams of pearl powder with 6 grams of clay and mix with 1.5 tbsp. l. water.
- Bring alginate gel and pearl-clay mixture to a homogeneous state.
- Apply to face.
Botox – alginate acid mask
The effect of instant tightening will be given by a mask that contains:
- Prepare the gel base - 5 grams of alginate diluted with 3 tbsp. l. water
- 1.3 tbsp. l. Mix wheat flour with calendula decoction until you get a paste.
- Stir a partial cupful into the flour mixture. l. grape seed oil.
- Combine the two mixtures, mix and add an ampoule of calcium chloride for plasticization.
- Mix again and spread over the face.
Components of homemade masks
It is important to note that you should try to dilute the alginate mask without lumps. And in order to obtain the product of the required consistency, it is necessary to maintain the correct proportions. Usually the ratio of sodium alginate and water is 1:2. After combining them, the mass is thoroughly mixed.
Then you can include herbal infusions, spirulina, and kelp in its composition. They will nourish and moisturize the skin. Each component has the following properties:
- Mumiyo. Can get rid of stretch marks and scars.
- Chamomile. Reduces inflammation, relieves acne and soothes irritated skin.
- Chocolate. The component will improve and refresh your complexion.
- Blueberry. The ingredient will get rid of pigmentation.
- Coriander. Rejuvenates faded skin.
Any alginate mask will have a positive effect on the skin.
Reviews
The opinions of women who have tried to use an alginate mask at least once are only positive.
They all agree on one thing: the product has an excellent effect after the first procedure. The skin becomes elastic, the facial contour is tightened. This allows women to feel much younger.
In combination with other cosmetic products, this mask provides a noticeable increase in the effect.
An alginate mask is a product that has a positive effect on the skin, it is affordable and can be used at home. Regular use of the described mask will help you maintain beauty and youth for a long time.
