How to Make the Viral Flaxseed Mask

In the culinary world, the golden-brown flaxseed (a superfood!) is extremely versatile. Rich in fiber and beneficial omega-3 fats, flaxseeds can be a superstar ingredient in granolas, snack bars, crackers, breads, muffins, baked goods and more.

The benefits of flaxseeds go beyond nutrition, however. If you haven’t heard about the viral flaxseed mask, or “nature’s Botox” as the internet is calling it, here’s the rundown. TikTok beauty gurus claim that combining flaxseeds with hot water to create an ooey-gooey face mask can be a natural alternative to Botox. The mixture simultaneously tightens and hydrates skin, while many conventional, store-bought beauty products actually dry out the skin.

Many dermatologists and skin care experts on social media agree that the flaxseed face mask is not comparable to Botox, but the mix can indeed have beneficial effects on the skin. Flaxseeds contain mucilage, which causes the gel-like texture when combined with water. The skin holds onto the water, which can temporarily fill out fine lines.

Spoiler alert: I tried it and can vouch that my face felt plumper and glowier afterward and for the rest of the day (thanks to the skin-smoothing antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties flax contains). If anything, it’s a new feel-good step in my self-care routine that I’ll surely turn back to when I’m feeling dry and in need for some deep hydration. I opted for flaxseed meal, but you can also use whole seeds. If you want to give it a go, here’s the super-simple DIY.

DIY Flaxseed Mask

Ingredients

1/3 cup water
1 Tbsp. whole flaxseeds or flaxseed meal

Directions

1. In pot, bring water to boil.
2. Add flaxseeds and stir.
3. Remove from heat and transfer mixture into separate bowl. Set aside for 3-4 hours, or overnight, until it becomes a gelatinous and sticky.
4. Use fingers to apply gel to skin. Once mask dries completely, rinse off and follow up with your favorite hydrating serum and/or moisturizer.

In addition to benefitting skin, incorporating a flaxseed mask into your hair care regimen can promote a healthy scalp and strengthen hair. Make a flaxseed hair mask by warming 2 cups water and ¼ cup flaxseeds over medium heat for 8-10 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Remove from heat and cool. Use a cheese cloth to strain mixture. Massage gel into scalp and distribute evenly throughout hair. Relax for 1-2 hours, then cleanse with shampoo and conditioner. Helloooo healthy, shiny and frizz-free hair!

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