Homographs can be applied to face masks now. One for skincare and the other facilitates respiratory protection. But we’re more concerned about the former in this instance to resolve skin issues and revitalise your appearance. Sure, you religiously perform your basic cleansing routine daily to maintain a fresh complexion.
So, are face mask applications necessary and should you include an additional step into your grooming regimen? Certainly.
Think of it as a treatment that delivers potent ingredients that aids in improving your skin faster than other products. “A facial mask complements daily skincare products. Since a mask is applied in a thick layer and contains intensive ingredients when left on for several minutes, it increases your skin’s permeability and allows the ingredients to work intensively,” says Grace Tay, senior trainer at Clarins.
One Mask Doesn't Fit All
Don’t be fooled by stylish advertising and celebrity endorsements. Masks should be paired according to your skin condition. “We should first determine our skin type, decide what our skin concerns are and what we hope to achieve by masking,” explains Dr Ian Tan, who practises aesthetic medicine at IDS Clinic.
“Clay, mud and peel-off masks are generally good for oily, congested skin that is more acne-prone. They soak up the excess grime and sebum while drawing out dirt from the skin. Sheet masks are generally more versatile and can be used for most skin types, including dry skin to combination skin.”
Before Lights Out Or Sleep On It
You’ve heard horror stories of outbreaks and masks not delivering their intended results. Again, the effectiveness lies with the functionality of the product. Paul Mitchell, senior director, global education and events at Philosophy, notes that “while it’s true that many masks are designed to be used for a short duration and then removed, some masks can be left on overnight if that’s how they were intended to work.
For example, clay extraction masks work within a specific time frame, so they don’t need the eight hours to work. But hydration masks and some exfoliating masks can be overnight treatments—the key is to look at the usage instructions.”
Do's And Don'ts
According to Tay, it’s best to apply masks at least once or twice a week on clean, dry skin. “They are ideal after exfoliating as this ensures better penetration of the active ingredients into the skin.”
Another important measure is to use a clean spatula to scoop out the mask if it’s contained in a jar. “Don’t use your fingers. This helps to prevent dirt and germs from the fingers transferring to the jar and breeding inside,” Tan clarifies. “Also, don’t throw away the excess serum in the packaging. Rather than throwing it away, scoop out the excess and pat it into your neck and even your hands. These areas deserve some care too.”
Beneficial Ingredients To Look Out For
Examine the mask’s ingredients list closely if you are picking it up over the counter. Are you allergic to any elements or do they cause irritation? Always consult a doctor if you are uncertain.
Now for the star ingredients that’ll improve your complexion. Vitamins and hyaluronic acid are in the rage currently. “Particular ingredients that could benefit the skin include, but are not limited to, humectants such as hyaluronic acid, as well as active ingredients that are strong antioxidants,” Tan reveals.
Mitchell adds what to focus on for masks with their respective functions. “Cleansing masks should contain ingredients, such as kaolin, that help absorb oil. Hydration masks with hyaluronic acid boost skin’s hydration. And exfoliating masks must have ingredients that work quickly but with less chance of irritation—like pineapple enzymes—or if the mask is for overnight use, look for a combination of acids that work together—like AHAs [alpha-hydroxy acids] and BHAs [beta- hydroxy acids]”.
Below are five masks that'll sheathe your face in lustre.
Clarins SOS Hydra Refreshing Hydration Mask
So, your skin has rung the alarm by appearing dehydrated and dull. Quench its thirst with this hydrating mask that instantly moisturises the skin and restores radiance thanks to hyaluronic acid that helps retain moisture at the skin’s surface.
Drunk Elephant F-Balm Electrolyte Waterfacial
One that you can go to bed with and not worry till dawn, this cooling overnight mask restores complexion with an electrolyte cocktail while repairing uneven tone and texture. Massage your tired face with its tiny beads loaded with vitamin F that pops during application to deliver extra emollience and soothing hydration.
IDS DM Dermashield Mask
It’s an honour to be under the limelight but invisible rays from the sun and technology devices can be harmful. Heal the damage with this IDS mask. Each sheet is saturated with IDS’s DermaShield Serum that works to further reinforce protection from daily exposure to high-energy visible (blue light) and infrared light as well as environmental pollutants.
Philosophy The Microdelivery Dream Peel
Finally, a dream that can be achieved overnight. This overnight peel with time-release technology delivers a blend of six percent AHAs and BHA as well as powerful active ingredients gradually to help refine the appearance of pores and fine lines while you sleep.
THANN Intensive Hydrating Facial Mask
Thann’s first sheet mask not only feels great on skin, but smells great too. We’re all for a two-in-one. Its soothing scent of yuzu and neroli essential oils helps to calm your mind and body. Plus, the additional AHAs and organic pineapple extract gently exfoliate skin, improving radiance and smoothness.
