Do you even mask?

One of my favorite self care rituals has always been masking. Whether it be a quick and convenient sheet mask or a full on mud mask.

Besides helping you unwind and de-stress did you know that masking has amazing benefits to your skin?

Masking is meant to give your skin an instant boost. Depending on your needs, there are masks designed to deliver what your skin craves. The most common benefits:

• Enhances elasticity

• Refines large pores

• Absorbs excess oil and dirt

• Decongests clogged pores

• Hydrates and moisturizes dry skin

• Minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

• Improves skin texture

• Improves the look of breakouts

• Brightens dark spots

Just like a serum or moisturizer, a face mask is a skin care vehicle. It delivers highly concentrated actives, vitamins and nutrients to the skin to improve its overall health. They create a physical barrier that locks in ingredients allowing the skin to absorb more effectively.

Some of the different types of masks are:

Gel

With a jelly like texture, these lightweight masks are a great choice for oily to normal skin types. Many gel masks include astringent ingredients which minimize oil and tighten the appearance of pores.

Cream

Thick in texture, these face masks do wonders for adding hydration and nutrients back into the skin, helping maintain a plump and youthful appearance.

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Clay

Thick and creamy in texture, these masks absorb, exfoliate and contain astringent properties. They help treat ongoing skin conditions related to acne such as excess oil and inflammation. Did you know a clay mask can double as a spot treatment?

Exfoliating

Formulated to slough away dead skin cells and boost your skin’s natural turnover process. This type of face mask can be in the form of a chemical peel which employs alpha or beta hydroxy acids to dissolve dead skin cells and clear them from the skin’s surface. Or, it may use finely ground particles for a physical exfoliation.

Warming

These masks contain spices like paprika and cinnamon that make the skin feel warm. They intentionally cause a tingling sensation. These masks aren’t for everyone. If you are someone who has sensitive skin, you’re better off choosing a cream or gel-based mask that won’t exacerbate your symptoms.

Sheet

Quick and convenient, these masks are often made with fiber, cotton , cellulose or coconut pulp and are soaked in nutrient rich essence and are ready to use. They are perfect for a boost of hydration for skin in need of a drink.

It is recommended to add a face mask 1-2x per week to your skincare routine. Masking should follow your regular cleansing, toning and essence application. These steps clear impurities and excess oil and prep your skin for the better absorption of your mask so you can maximize the benefits.

Remember:

• Always apply your mask evenly

• Be sure to include your neck and decolletage (as Caroline Hirons says, "take it to the tits.")

• Leave on for the recommended time which varies from mask to mask

• Remove gently with a damp cloth (with exception of sheet masks)