Face masks are one of the trendiest ways to care for your skin today, and for a good reason. Dermatologists say that when used correctly, skin masks can improve your skin in a number of different ways.
Face masks can help absorb excess oils, open clogged pores, and reduce inflammation. And let’s admit it, skin masks also feel luxurious, and can be a fun way to give yourself a relaxed spa feeling in your own home.
There are several types of face masks on the market today, and each provides different skin benefits. Some of the most popular mask types include:
- sheets
- creams
- gels
- mud
- clay
These may contain enzymes, antioxidants, and other active ingredients. Dermatologists typically recommend that you can use masks as little as once a week to as much as once a day.
The first step in applying your face mask is choosing the right one for your skin type.
- Hydrating. Hydrating cream or sheet masks are good for dry skin types. Some experts recommend applying masks overnight for maximum hydration.
- Clay and mud-based. These are good for oily or mixed skin types.
- Enzyme. Enzyme cream or gel masks and bubble masks are good for acne-prone skin types.
- Gel. These are good for sensitive skin types.
- Antioxidant. Antioxidant cream or gel masks are good for hyper-pigment skin types.
Once you’ve found a mask that works for you, it’s time to apply it. You can extend some face masks to your neck. Some masks should also be massaged into your skin to maximize their efficacy.
Cream mask
Cream masks come in two main types: rinse-off and peel-off.
- In both cases, you apply the mask in the same way by using your fingertips to apply an even layer of cream over your face.
- Avoid getting the cream on your lips, eyes, and eyebrows.
Bubble mask
- Apply a quarter-sized amount of your bubble mask over your face.
- Keep this mask off your eyes and lips.
Sheet mask
- Remove the sheet mask from its packaging and unfold it without tearing.
- Line up the mask with your face shape, eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Gently press the mask to the form of your face until it’s sticking evenly.
Clay or mud-based mask
- Dip your fingertips into the mask and scoop out a quarter-sized amount.
- Spread evenly across your face, starting at your upper neck and working your way up your face.
- Avoid your lips and eyes.
Gel mask
- As with a cream mask, when using a gel mask, spread an even amount over your face using your fingertips.
- Avoid getting gel masks in your eyes or on your lips.
Overnight mask
- Smooth the mask in a thin layer over your face as you would with a normal moisturizing cream.
- Avoid your eyes and lips.
Most masks, except those labeled as overnight, should be worn for no more than 20 minutes at a time. If you wear them longer, they’ll begin to dry out and dry out your skin.
Rinse-off masks
- Use lukewarm water and your fingers to gently rub the mask off your face.
- Avoid vigorous rubbing.
- Gently pat your face dry after rinsing it off.
Sheet and peel-off masks
For sheet masks and peel-off masks:
- Gently peel the mask from your face.
- Take your time and don’t pull hard to remove it from your skin.
- Once the mask is off, proceed with your regular skin care routine. There’s no need to rinse.
You don’t need to rinse or remove overnight masks. When you wake up, just proceed with your regular skin care routine.
Prep and aftercare
Maximize the effects of your face mask by taking care of your skin before and after application.
Before
Before putting a face mask on, you should take care to cleanse your skin. Find a facial cleanser designed for your skin type and use it liberally before applying your face mask.
Cleansing can help prepare your skin to absorb the nutrients and active ingredients from the mask, maximizing its effectiveness.
After
After removing your face mask, you should moisturize your skin while it’s still damp. Choose a moisturizer designed for your skin type, and apply a thin layer after removing your face mask.
This can help keep your skin hydrated, maximizing the full effects of your mask.
If you’re in a pinch and want to save money and time by using ingredients at home instead of buying face masks, here are a few recipes to try:
Hydrating avocado and cocoa mask
For this mask, you’ll need an avocado, unsweetened cocoa powder, and honey. The rich ingredients in this mask can help hydrate the skin.
- Mash a quarter of the avocado in a bowl.
- Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa and 1 tablespoon of honey. Mix well.
- Cleanse your face.
- Apply and let sit for 10 to 20 minutes.
- Remove with lukewarm water and moisturize.
Oil-reducing egg and oatmeal mask
You’ll need an egg, honey, olive oil, and oatmeal for this mask. The ingredients can help remove excess oil from skin.
- Mix the yolk of the egg with 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 tablespoon of olive oil with 1/2 cup of oatmeal.
- Cleanse your face.
- Apply and let sit for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Remove with lukewarm water and moisturize.
Brightening orange honey mask
You’ll need orange juice and honey for this mask, which can quickly help brighten dull skin.
- Mix 3 tablespoons of orange juice with 1/4 cup of honey.
- Cleanse your face and apply while rubbing lightly.
- Remove with lukewarm water and moisturize.
Face masks are an easy, fun, and relaxing way to care for your skin, and can even be made at home with a few simple ingredients.