The 4-1-1 on the most popular skin mask options on the market.
Masks are the secret to great skin and an essential component of my #SelfcareSunday routine. But with so many options, figuring when and out what type to use can induce decision fatigue. Whether you’re looking to instantly hydrate your skin, clear a breakout, or reduce the appearance of fine lines, there is a face mask for every skin type and concern. Read on for face masks explained.
Face Masks Explained:
The Clay Mask
IDEAL FOR: Normal to Oily Skin
Clay masks are amazing for naturally detoxifying the skin, treating breakouts and soothing redness. At the same time, they stimulate the lymphatic system while firming, tightening and de-puffing tired skin. After you mask, follow with your full skincare routine, including cleansing, serum, and moisturizer.
The Moisturizing Mask
A moisturizing mask is a skin product staple for maintaining hydrated skin. When skin is well moisturized, it gives a more youthful appearance while making it easier to apply makeup. Let’s break down to the two most common moisturizing masks:
A Cream Based Mask
IDEAL FOR: Normal to Dry Skin
A cream mask rich in oils and fatty acids like avocado oil and shea butter penetrates deep into the epidermis to replenish dry cells. For extra hydration, look for a mask containing hyaluronic acid which has the added benefit of attracting and binding moisture to plump, tighten and firm.
A Gel Based Mask
IDEAL FOR: Dry and Sensitive Skin
Gel masks are infused with antioxidants that help the skin recover and are ideal for someone with sensitive skin whose main concern is hydration over detoxifying.
The Sheet Mask
IDEAL FOR: Most Skin Types
A sheet mask should sit on top of your skin for 20 minutes, max. During that time the serum on the sheet is soaking deep into your skin. Based on the formulas they contain, there is a sheet mask for every skin type. For example, if your concern is hydration and anti-aging, look for a sheet mask with hyaluronic acid or vitamin E. For added benefits, pair your sheet mask with a serum. Apply the serum first, allowing the mask to push the serum deep into the skin. After you let the mask sit for twenty minutes, resist the urge to wash your face and instead massage the residue over your face and seal it all in with your favorite moisturizer.
The Exfoliating Mask
IDEAL FOR: Most skin types.
The key to bright healthy skin is regular exfoliating. Exfoliation removes the dead skin cells, oil, and pollution from the outermost layer of your skin through hydroxy acids and fruit enzymes. If you have sensitive skin, I recommend that you use an enzyme-based mask, don’t exfoliate more than once a week, and load up on a moisturizer after.
The Sleeping Mask
IDEAL FOR: Most Skin Types
In cold winter months or dryer climates, sleeping masks are your go-to when your skin needs a boost of hydration. While you’re sleeping your skin is in repair mode, making an overnight mask more effective. If you’re breakout-prone, I recommend steering clear of a cream-based sleeping mask.
If you’re still indecisive, try the multi-mask by applying different mask treatments to different target areas of the face while avoiding laying one mask on top of the other. Whether sheet, clay or overnight mask, it’s a good idea to use a mask at least once a week to maintain a healthy glow between facials. I love the #selfcare ritual of masking mid-week and weekends.