WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FACE MASKS
How face masks can help you deal with problems like dry and oily skin.
INNA CODRU , JUNE 17, 2020
Face masks should be an important part of your daily skincare routine. They will help you deal with some of the most common skin problems today, such as dry and oily skin. Depending on the face mask you use, it can hydrate your skin or remove excess oils and impurities, resulting in smoother, healthier, and more beautiful skin.
But the questions you can probably ask yourself are: "How often should I wear a mask?" and “Which face mask is best for your skin?” Read on to find out the answers to these questions!
INGREDIENTS FOR THE FACE MASK
When shopping for any skin care product, it's important to find out what the ingredients are in it to see if the product is right for you. The type of ingredients will mainly depend on your skin type and the skin problems you are trying to solve.
If you're looking for a face mask that should hydrate your skin and have anti-aging properties, then opt for something with pumpkin seed oil, such as a pumpkin seed spice face mask.
Pumpkin seed contains antioxidants that will protect your skin from harmful free radicals. It will also have anti-aging properties that prevent the formation of wrinkles, making you look younger than ever.
For those looking to nourish their dry skin, look for a product that has a soothing ingredient in it. In addition, it should also have moisturizing properties. For example, glycerin, which is well absorbed by the skin.
TYPES OF FACE MASKS
You will find different types of face masks in the market. Again, which one to choose depends on the skin problem you are trying to solve. Do you have dermatitis or eczema? Are you suffering from acne? All these factors play a decisive role.
Below are some of the most common types of face masks you will find on the market.
1. Clay masks
Before sheet (sheet) masks hit the market, clay masks were most commonly used by women. Even in ancient times, clay was a popular ingredient in beauty products. In fact, records have been found of Cleopatra using clay obtained from the Arabian Desert and the Nile River for cosmetic purposes.
Indeed, just like a pumpkin and spice face mask, clay masks can help to effectively detoxify the skin by removing impurities and excess oil. It can help unclog pores while giving your face that beautiful soft glow.
2. Acid face masks
Acid face masks are designed to exfoliate the skin, removing dead cells from its surface. After washing off the mask, you will immediately feel that your skin has become smoother and fresher than before.
For people with sensitive skin, acid facials are a better choice than physical cleansing. Just make sure you choose the right mask and always do a patch test on your skin. To use, apply the mask generously all over the skin. Wash off the mask with water after a few minutes.
3. Sheet masks
If you are a big fan of K-beauty trends, then you must be familiar with sheet masks. These masks are recommended if you need to instantly add moisture to your facial skin.
As the name suggests, these masks come in a leaf shape which is very convenient to apply. Thus, it is the ideal solution for quick recovery of dry and dehydrated skin. Usually these masks are made from different materials such as cotton, fiber, cellulose, coconut meat, etc. Sheet masks have openings for the mouth, eyes, and nose area.
Depending on the type of sheet masks you use, they exfoliate, hydrate, or brighten your skin for a brighter, smoother complexion.
4. Exfoliating masks
One of the best ways to deal with clogged pores and blackheads is to use an exfoliating mask. Just apply a sufficient amount of the mask on your face and let it dry. After a few minutes, just remove the mask from your face! You will notice these blackheads and dirt sticking out right from the removed mask.
Exfoliating masks can effectively absorb excess oil and exfoliate dead skin. Regular use of this mask will result in brighter, smoother and more radiant skin.
5. Night masks
As the name suggests, overnight masks are types of masks that need to be applied at night. This is perfect for those who don't want to have the hassle of putting tons of makeup on their face at night. Using a mask is easier than applying creams, moisturizers, etc.
An overnight mask will work wonders while you sleep. Its ingredients will slowly penetrate your skin and you will wake up with happy and healthy skin. Another thing that makes this mask stand out from the rest is its lighter texture. Even if you leave it overnight, you won't have to deal with dirty pillowcases when you wake up 😄.
6. Honey face masks
Honey face masks are very dirty, but they can do wonders for your skin. To avoid problems, it's best to apply them before taking a shower, or you can use them even while you're in the shower. Leave it on your face while you complete other procedures such as shaving your legs, cleaning your heels, etc.
Honey face masks are suitable for people with sensitive skin since honey has antibacterial properties that can destroy all (!) acne-causing bacteria.
7. Eye masks
The best way to soothe puffy eyes and get rid of dark circles is to use an eye mask. Of course, all the above eye problems can be hidden under makeup, but if you want to get rid of them completely, an eye mask is the best assistant.
As the name suggests, these masks are for the eyes. They come in the form of self-adhesive patches that you can simply leave on your skin for a few minutes.
Depending on the type of eye mask you will be using, you can leave them on for 10 minutes or so. They will fight fine lines and puffiness while removing dark circles, which are among the most common signs of aging.
WHEN SHOULD YOU USE FACE MASKS?
So, when should you use a mask and how often? Regular use of a mask has its benefits. Ideally, face masks should be used at least 1-3 times per week.
If you feel like your skincare routine is losing effectiveness, or if you just want to try a new product in your skincare routine, then opt for a face mask. You can apply the mask during the day or at night, depending on what your schedule allows.
HOW TO USE A FACE MASK CORRECTLY
Before applying the mask, it is highly recommended to cleanse and exfoliate the skin using an exfoliating cleanser that is gentle on the skin. This can help unclog the pores, and unclogging the pores will make it easier for the mask to penetrate deep into the skin and help remove bacteria and dirt.
It's also a good idea to steam your face beforehand to open up your pores even more. Just take a hot shower or use a facial steamer. Even just putting a hot towel on your face for a few minutes can also achieve this goal. Then apply the mask to the specific area of the skin you have chosen.
It is also recommended to use a brush when applying the face mask. Refer to the instructions that came with your mask for instructions on how to properly apply your specific mask. Do not leave the mask on your face for longer than the instructions say.
For example, when using a pumpkin spice face mask, you should only leave it on your skin for 15-30 minutes. Please note that these products contain active ingredients that can cause negative results if you leave them on your face for a long time.
Make sure you wash the mask off your face properly. After removing the mask, apply facial moisturizer and eye moisturizer.
WHAT TO DO AFTER YOU WASH OUT THE MASK?
After you have washed off the mask, it is recommended to moisturize the skin by applying a moisturizer. It is good for the skin as it contains antioxidants and unsaturated fatty acids that help fight aging.
Moisturizing after using the mask can help restore the skin and minimize the unwanted dryness that usually occurs after the removal of the mask.
WHAT SHOULD YOU NEVER DO?
There is no doubt that face masks can certainly do wonders for our skin. But in order to fully benefit from it, make sure you choose the right product for your skin type.
For example, if you have oily skin, you should opt for a sulfur-based face mask. But for those with dry and sensitive skin, choose a mask made with natural ingredients to avoid irritation.
If you notice, face masks are sold at different prices. Just because one of them is expensive doesn't mean it's better. There are high quality face masks that don't cost much. What really matters is that you choose the product that works best for YOUR skin type and condition.
Face masks should be considered an essential component of your daily skincare routine. You do not need to use a mask regularly. 1 to 3 times a week should be sufficient. Of course, you should use other skin care products as well so that your use of face masks will help you get the best results.