If your skin care regime doesn't include some type of facial masks, now is the time to start using one…weekly! Aside from cleansing, toning and moisturizing a mask works to penetrate deeply and purify skin. In any given day, your skin is exposed to aging UV rays, free radicals and stress with little to no protection. A mask can be a real game changer when it comes to rejuvenating an renewing skin! Here is a breakdown of the most popular types of masks; along with the benefits suited for each skin type!
Clay Masks
If you have oily or combination skin, then this type of mask is ideal! Those with this skin type are more prone to developing acne and blackheads due to excess sebum. A clay mask works like a magnet that lifts dirt, bacteria and oil without irritating ingredients or harsh scrubbing.
The three major types of clay masks are composed of these mineral rich ingredients that vary in color and texture.
- Bentonite (Fine texture, detoxifies, increases blood circulation)
- Kaolin (Most gentle, exfoliates, comes in a wide range of colors)
- Rhassoul (Perfect for acne, evens out skin tone, replenishes moisture)
When using a mask, it undergoes stages after applied to skin. For starters, it best to apply clay on damp skin. When skin is damp the minerals from the clay easily seep into pores to draw out impurities. As the clay hardens, your skin begins to take on a tightening feeling as capillaries are expanded. This stimulation of blood flow jump starts cell activity that leads to reparation of skin fibers.
It it best to avoid clay masks from fully drying. It is recommended to remove masks with warm water when mask still has a demi-matte texture. Once the mask begins to crack, this is an indication that the mask has been left on too long. Leaving on a skin too long causes more force being used to remove product which then leads to moisture being stripped.
Sheet Masks
All thanks to the Korean beauty community, there has been a spike in the usage of these addicting masks! This type of mask works well for all skin types; however, they work best as an anti-aging product. These masks are composed of a woven texture base like cotton then is submerged with serums. When used as directed, in combination of “trapping” the product and duration, the serum works most efficiently. Common ingredients found in sheet masks often feature:
- Collagen Essence
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin A
- Aloe Vera
- Hyaluronic Acid
When using this type of mask, it is best to use this mask while laying down for the mask to adhere to skin. The mask should be left on 15-20 minutes in order for the ingredients to be fully absorbed into the pores of skin.
Peel Off Masks
The sensation of this top of mask is unique because you can visually “see” what is being removed. The benefits that this mask offers range from removing impurities and reviving the texture of skin. The technique is similar in the way that a chemical peel treatment would work; as it works to remove the first layer of skin.
As far as ingredients are concerned, this type of mask utilizes vitamins and plant based ingredients that purify skin. Those with sensitive skin should avoid using this type of mask because of the abrasiveness that the peeling may cause. This type of mask is great for those suffering with excess oil, acne and hyperpigmentation. One overlooked benefit of this type of mask is that it acts as an exfoliate to remove fine facial hair.
This type of mask should be used 1-2 times per week and should not be left on longer than 20 minutes.
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