Aspirin contains salicylic acid which is a powerful exfoliate for sloughing off dead skin cells enabling ingrown hair to grow out. The salicylic acid can cause dehydration so for dry skin, it is better to add jojoba oil and honey to moisturize the skin and reduce swelling or redness. Aspirin mask does help in clearing the skin and can save you from paying expensively for other hair removal products. There is not much complexity involved in making the mask for application as it is a simple process that can be done at home. Here is some information as to the procedure for making the application:
Complexity level: Moderately easy
Time required: 30 minutes
Estimated cost: $15
Resources required
1. Uncoated aspirin tablets, about 4 nos.
2. Jojoba oil if you have dry skin.
3. If you have oily skin then water will work as well.
4. Honey, as it has antiseptic, anti bacterial and anti microbial properties as well as a good hydrant.
Instructions
Having assembled the materials for your mask all you need to do is to follow the basic instructions as below.
1. Aspirin can dissolve easily in water but if you want, you can crush them.
2. You can grind the tablets in a grinder if you want them very fine.
3. Meanwhile, mix half teaspoon water or jojoba oil and one teaspoon of honey by putting them all in a small bowl.
4. In another large bowl, place some hot water.
5. Into this large bowl, place the smaller bowl with the ingredients to soften them up.
6. Wait till it softens and remove the mixture from the hot water in the large bowl.
7. Next, add the crushed aspirins into the mixture, stirring it up well with a fork or spoon.
8. Add water or oil if you find the consistency too thick.
9. Even if the consistency is not thick, it will do the job just as well.
10. Once your mixture is ready, test the temperature of the mask. It should not be too warm.
11. Next, using your finger tips, apply them over the ingrown hair.
12. Apply carefully to avoid the eye area.
13. After complete application, wait for 10 minutes to dry.
14. Once the mixture dries up, wash off with warm water.
15. Remove all traces of mixture and wipe dry.
16. Depending on the severity of your problem and skin type, apply once or twice a week.
Frequently asked questions
1. How does aspirin work?
Ans: Over time of usage, aspirin can clear up skin blemishes and provide healing. Aspirin has Beta Hydroxy Acids, otherwise called BHA’s which exfoliates dead layers of skin to promote new growth.
2. Can I use coated aspirin if I can not find uncoated ones?
Ans: Yes, it can work just as well provided you rub the coated aspirin under running water to wash off the top coating. Once you feel the coarseness going off the top layer, you can feel it become softer in texture. Once this is done, you can use it for your preparation.
3. Is it safe?
Ans: It is relatively safe provided you are not allergic to salicylic acid. Avoid it if you are breast feeding, having medical condition or pregnant. Avoid using if you have done waxing or had applied any products that contain glycolic, enzyme or salicylic acid. Avoid applying to sunburned, irritated or inflamed skin.
Quick tips
1. Do not use if you are under 16 years.
2. Take care not to overdose on aspirin usage.
3. If you feel any effects such as nausea, vomiting or dizziness after using the mask, immediately seek medical attention.
4. Always apply sunscreen when you have had an aspirin mask treatment. Aspirin mask tends to make your skin a little bit more sensitive.
5. Aspirin mask can also be applied on pimples and acne.
6. Always check with your dermatologist or doctor to ascertain if you can apply the mask to avoid any problems.