Bananas are an excellent ingredient for homemade face masks. They are packed with nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium which can nourish and revitalize skin. But how long should you leave a banana mask on for maximum benefits? Here is a look at the recommended time to keep banana on your face.
What are the benefits of banana face masks?
Bananas offer many benefits when applied topically on skin. Here are some of the main reasons to use banana face masks:
- Moisturize – Bananas are rich in moisture and can hydrate dry skin. The fruit is made up of 75% water.
- Vitamin C – Bananas contain vitamin C, an antioxidant that brightens skin and evens out tone.
- Reduce wrinkles – The nutrients in bananas may help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Soothe irritation – The soothing properties of banana can calm irritated or inflamed skin.
- Exfoliate – Bananas gently exfoliate dead skin cells, leaving skin soft.
- Antioxidants – Bananas offer antioxidants that protect skin against environmental damage.
By providing nourishing vitamins and minerals, banana masks can improve skin hydration, texture, tone, and elasticity.
How long should you leave a banana mask on your face?
Most sources recommend leaving a banana mask on your face for 10 to 20 minutes. Here is an overview of how long you should leave banana on skin:
- 10 minutes – Leaving a banana mask on for just 10 minutes will provide a quick moisture boost and gently exfoliate. 10 minutes is great for a banana mask “pick-me-up”.
- 15 minutes – 15 minutes allows more time for the nutrients in banana to absorb into skin. This duration will hydrate, brighten, and smooth skin.
- 20 minutes – Leaving a banana mask on for 20 minutes gives the ingredients ample time to provide anti-aging and soothing benefits. 20 minutes is ideal for maximum results.
Always rinse off a banana mask thoroughly with lukewarm water. Gently pat skin dry with a soft towel. Follow up with a light moisturizer if desired.
Tips for applying a banana mask
To get the most out of your banana face mask, follow these tips:
- Use ripe bananas – Ripe, yellow bananas contain more beneficial nutrients than unripe green bananas.
- Mash thoroughly – Mash banana well until smooth to make it easier to apply on skin.
- Avoid eye area – Keep banana masks away from the sensitive skin around the eyes.
- Apply evenly – Apply banana over your face, avoiding the eye area. Spread evenly.
- Relax – Sit back and relax while the mask works its magic. Avoid talking or making facial expressions.
Are there any downsides to banana masks?
Banana masks are safe for most people when used correctly. But here are a few potential downsides to keep in mind:
- Allergies – Those with banana allergies should avoid using them on skin.
- Sensitivity – The fruit acids in banana may irritate very sensitive skin.
- Messiness – Banana masks can get messy and stain fabrics. Use an old towel on your shoulders.
- Oxidation – Once exposed to air, banana will start to oxidize and turn brown quickly.
If you have any negative reaction to a banana mask, discontinue use. See a dermatologist if irritation persists.
What are the best banana face mask recipes?
You can customize banana masks with ingredients to target specific skin concerns. Here are 3 top banana face mask recipes:
1. Moisturizing banana and honey mask
Honey adds extra hydration to soften and smooth dry skin. Mash 1 ripe banana with 1 tablespoon raw honey. Leave on skin 15-20 minutes. Rinse and pat dry.
2. Brightening and anti-aging turmeric banana mask
Turmeric contains the compound curcumin which can reduce dark spots and improve radiance. Mash 1 ripe banana with 1 teaspoon turmeric powder. Leave on skin 15-20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly.
3. Soothing banana and oatmeal mask
Oatmeal calms irritation and itchiness. Mash 1 ripe banana with 3 tablespoons oatmeal. Leave on skin 10-15 minutes. Rinse off thoroughly.
What’s the best way to store excess banana mask?
Leftover banana mask should be promptly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for 1-2 days max. Discard any darker oxidized portions before reapplying.
To store, place excess mask in a sealed small container. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the mask to prevent oxidation. Refrigerate and use within 24 hours for best results.
Can you keep a banana mask overnight?
It is not recommended to leave a banana mask on your face overnight. Bananas oxidize quickly once exposed to air and can become a breeding ground for bacteria if left on skin for hours.
Overnight masks should contain preservatives to prevent bacterial growth. A banana mask is purely made from fruit so leaving it on all night could potentially cause irritation or infection.
Limit your banana face mask duration to 20 minutes max for safety and sanitation. Then be sure to wash it off completely before going to bed.
Conclusion
Banana face masks provide a quick, easy, and natural way to nourish your skin. Most sources recommend keeping a banana mask on for 10 to 20 minutes. 10 minutes gives a hydration boost while 20 minutes allows the nutrients to fully absorb.
Ripe bananas are ideal for masks. Mash them up and combine with other skin-loving ingredients like honey, turmeric, or oatmeal. Apply the mask evenly over your face, avoiding the eyes. Relax for up to 20 minutes then rinse off thoroughly.
Use banana masks 1-2 times per week for ultra-moisturized, glowing skin. Store any leftover mask in the refrigerator for 1-2 days max. While bananas make a fantastic face mask, it’s best not to leave them on overnight.