Masks: The first-aid skin fix for your face
Face masks are facials in a flash. Here’s everything you need to know about choosing the perfect fast-fix mask for your face.
Shopping for the perfect mask
If you have oily skin that tends to get pimply
Words to look for: Deep cleansing, clarifying, mud, clay
How to use: Most oily skin masks start off as a thick paste and then dry on the skin so it goes hard. Keep it away from your eye area and use a hot face washer to remove all traces.
If you have snow-flaky and super-tight skin
Words to look for: Moisturising, hydrating
How to use: Apply, and then tissue off after the recommended time. Masks for dry skin shouldn’t go hard.
If you have dull skin
Words to look for: Perfecting, botanical, replenishing
How to use: Smooth on; if the mask is a cream, tissue or wipe off. If it’s a peel-off type, once the mask has set, pull downwards (gently), starting from your forehead.
If you have blotchy, super-sensitive skin
Words to look for: Gentle, soothing, relaxing
How to use: Smooth on to skin and gently wipe away with tissues or a warm face washer.
- Related story: 6 skin no-nos you should stop doing now
- Related story: Spritz your way to hydrated skin
How to get the most from your mask
- Cleanse: Using a mask on a dirty face is like putting polish on a dirty floor.
- Read the instructions carefully: To get the best result follow the suggested masking time.
- Go a little overboard: Most masks work better when you lay them on thick.
- Avoid your eye area: The skin is too sensitive there.
- Put your feet up and chillax: This moves all the oxygen from your lower body to your face and makes the mask work better.
- Moisturiseafterwards: Now you’ve removed dead skin cells and unclogged pores, your moisturiser will work much better and give your skin a real glow.
Don’t use a facial mask more than a couple of times a week.
It can suck up the natural oil in your face, which will cause your skin to produce more oil than normal.
Written by Nikki Yazxhi
