Face Masking || Your Ultimate Guide
Face masks have become so popular lately for their hydrating and refreshing properties. And while a face mask is an additional step in your skincare routine, it could be really helpful. They are so refreshing, and won’t take you so much time and effort as you don’t need to use them daily; once or twice a week should be enough. If you are already thinking of incorporating this step into your routine, then there are some dos and don’ts that you should know first.
The Dos
1 || Know The Type Of The Mask You Are Using
There are plenty of face masks in the market from brightening masks to exfoliating ones. Knowing the mask type you are using allows you to know when, how many times to use it and whether it suits your skin type or not. If you have oily and shiny skin then a clay mask might be a good option. A brightening mask is ideal for those with dry, dull skin and anyone suffering from pigmentation and uneven skin tone. A good brightening mask contains powerful brightening ingredients like arbutin, vitamin C, bearberry extract, and niacinamide. If you choose to use a peel-off mask, choose a gentle one that doesn’t contain high concentrations of polyvinyl alcohol, which can have a drying and irritating effect on the skin. Bottom line, whatever mask you choose, avoid the one that contains irritating ingredients like alcohol, mint, menthol, eucalyptus, camphor, and fragrances (natural and synthetic).
2 || Cleanse Your Skin Before
You may read this tip on any face mask you buy. Imagine how bad it is gonna be for your skin to put your mask on sebum, dirt, and bacteria. That said, make sure to wash your face thoroughly with your favorite cleanser and dry it with a towel before applying your mask.
3 || Apply With Clean Hands
And clean everything. Make sure your hands, towel, mask brush, bowls, jade roller (if you choose to apply your mask with it) and everything you are using to apply/ remove your mask are clean in order not to transform dirt or bacteria to your face.
4 || Moisturize Afterwards
I am sure you feel yourself how important it is to moisturize after masking. Even if the mask is hydrating, it is important to use a serum, hydrating cream and SPF (if it is daytime) to lock in moisture.
5 || Multi-Task If Needed
different areas of the face need different things… By this we mean your t-zone may need a purifying mask, while the rest of your face, neck, and decollete need a creamy moisturizing mask.
The Don’ts
1 || Don’t Allow Clay Masks To Dry Entirely
Clay masks are drying as they help to remove excess oil from the skin, which makes them perfect for those who suffer from shiny faces. But if you let them dry completely they can suck all the moisture and natural oils from the skin which is not the purpose. That said, make sure to remove it when it is still slightly wet.
2 || No Need For A Thick Layer
All you need is a thin layer, really. More product doesn’t mean better results. A thick layer will take longer to absorb. Also, too much of a face mask may backfire and irritate your skin or makes it dryer.
3 || Don’t Wash Afterwards
Cleansing is a beforehand step. After masking you should only rinse or remove with a cloth to leave on some of the benefits. If you are using a sheet mask massage your face with excess serum instead of removing it for extra hydration.
4 || Don’t Use The Wrong Mask For Your Skin
Just because some product went viral on social media or the internet doesn’t make it good for you. So make some effort to know what’s your skin type and what are its needs and choose your masks accordingly. Consult your dermatologist if needed. Also, avoid peel-off masks most of the time as they disrupt the skin barrier which may lead to a lot of irritation, redness, and maybe breakouts.