Introduction

Face masks are an effective way of delivering a highly concentrated form of skin care ingredients which is extremely therapeutic and nourishing to the skin 

Face masks work by covering the face with a formula of your choice, for a set period of time, usually 10-20 minutes (depending on the instructions on the packaging)

While they can be a quick fix for inflammation and dry patches, their benefits are temporary—which is why you should use them with other effective skin care products.

What are the benefits of face masks?

Face masks provide an array of benefits in the short term. If combined with other skincare routines—it can lead to long lasting effects. Some of the main benefits of using face masks are:

• hydrating skin 
• providing moisture 
• removing excess oils 
• helps purify the skin 
• provides skin with vitamins and vital nutrients 
• helps with signs of ageing 
• helps fight against acne and breakouts 
• gives a glow 
• improves dullness
  

What are the different types of face masks?

Cream or gel based masks 

Thicker cream masks can be great for particularly dry skin, since these masks contain hyaluronic acid which will provide your skin a much-needed healthy dose of hydration. 

Gel formulas typically include cucumber and aloe vera to soothe and calm the skin, making them ideal for sensitive types.

Exfoliating face masks

These face masks heavily feature chemical exfoliants, such as glycolic and lactic acid.

These mild acids work together to remove built-up dead cells which are found on the surface of the face–whilst leaving your skin looking brighter and feeling smoother.

Clay masks 

Richly containing minerals, clay masks are a great tool in revitalizing the skin.

Clay masks have to main types—Kaolin and Bentonite. Both these types are suitable for both oily and acne-prone skin due to their properties of excess oil absorption.

Clay masks may not be the best type of mask for people with dry skin, as it can be a little drying.

Sheet Masks

First popularised in Korea, sheet masks have taken the world by storm and is an increasingly used step in one’s self-care routines.

Most sheet masks contain moisturising hyaluronic acid and ceramides which help restore the skin’s barrier. It also contains antioxidants which defends against free radicals.

These masks tend to be deeply hydrating and are great for:

• dry skin 
• inflamed skin 
• fine lines

Exfoliating face masks

These face masks heavily feature chemical exfoliants, such as glycolic and lactic acid.

These mild acids work together to remove built-up dead cells which are found on the surface of the face–whilst leaving your skin looking brighter and feeling smoother.

Charcoal masks

Activated charcoal has properties which aid in absorbing toxins in the body, and it is also thought to remove dirt and other impurities from the surface of the skin.

Do’s and Dont’s

Do’s

• Follow storage instructions
• Check the expiration date
• Cleanse before applying a facial mask
• Massage your mask before using it.
  If you store your sheet masks vertically, some of the essences may settle at the bottom and your sheet mask won’t be intact with the essence. To gain the maximum benefit of the sheet mask, massage the package before opening it.

• Pat it in
  Patting the essences of the face mask into your skin will aid in its complete absorption—allowing you to reap the optimal benefits provided by its components.
• Moisturize after a face mask
  Even if your skin feels moisturized after using a hydrating mask, you can extend the benefits of the mask for even longer by using a rich face cream before bed. This will lock in the hydration you get from the face mask, by locking in the serum and moisture in it–allowing it to stay on your skin for longer whilst absorbing it.

Don’ts:

• Don’t leave it on for too long
• Don’t apply a face mask with dirty hands
• Don’t sleep with the mask on 

Since the main purpose of a face mask is to provide your skin with hydration and essential nutrients, if you wait until it dries completely, the facial sheet mask will suck out the moisture from your skin—drying out your skin even more. 

If you are likely to fall asleep while using your face mask, put an alarm or a timer on to make sure you wake up on time. 

Facial masks are not recommended to be kept on for more than 20 minutes.

• Don’t throw away the leftover essence

After you’ve taken the mask out from the pack, you’ll typically find a lot of serum left behind inside. You can use this leftover serum on your neck, elbows, and legs. 

If there’s still serum left after you’ve used the mask on your face for the recommended 15-20 minute time period, you can use it on other parts of your body. However, check the instructions on the packaging to ensure which body parts the ingredients are suitable for.

The best time to use a face mask

There’s no specific time that limits you from enjoying your masking time. Anytime you want is okay. But to know the “best” time, it’s probably around 9:00 – 10:00 at night before you go to bed. Your face will absorb all the nutrients and will keep the moisture locked in throughout the night, leaving your skin revitalized and hydrated for the next couple of days.

Conclusion

Face masks are a great way to give your skin a burst of nutrients and to aid in relaxation and is a great form of self-care. Always remember to check the ingredients and instructions on the packaging before use—to make sure that you get the best results, and leave your skin feeling renewed!