Beauty
Face Masks: When, What Type, and For How Long?
The face mask is a medium for rejuvenation. More so now than ever, we’re valuing the importance of hydrated, radiant skin. So, what type of mask suits you?
Yadira Cauchi
0 minute read
Published: September 2022
Origin: Australia
When you think of the ultimate pampering skincare cliche, I'll bet a face mask comes to mind.
A luxurious face mask is that special skincare treat, whether you're enjoying some self care, or your skin feels in need of some extra love.
Achieving that plump, deeply hydrated and nourished glow is the goal for most, but choosing the right face mask for your skin type, and using it correctly, is the key to achieving it.
Below, we cover all of your facial masks questions - from the different types, how long to leave a face mask on, and how often to use them.
The Questions We’ll be Answering
- + Types of masks and who they’re suited to
- + When to do a face mask?
- + How long to do it for?
- + What ingredients to look for
The Purpose of a Face Mask
The purpose of a face mask is to introduce and restore nutrients, vitamins and actives to the skin, restoring health and improving look and feel.
The ‘right’ face mask will consist of ingredients that will aid the skin in absorbing these qualities.
There are specific masks to help you achieve a desired outcome; yes there are general maintenance face masks, but if you truly want to see the best results, you have to understand what it is you’re trying to achieve. We recommend identifying what you’d like to improve and find a mask that caters specifically to your skin.
So, what might these skin goals look like?
The Benefits of Using a Face Mask
- + Replenish hydration
- + Repair or smoothen skin texture
- + Neutralise oils
- + Eliminate dirt
- + Unclog pores
- + Soften wrinkles
- + Increase elasticity
- + Neutralise breakouts
- + Eleviate shadowy eyes
- + Reduces large pores
Types of Facial Masks
Have you decided what face mask you’re going with? Click to find out about your preferred method.
- + Cream-Based Masks
- + Gel Masks
- + Overnight Masks
- + Clay Masks
We recommend choosing your mask and looking at the specific recommendations on application, duration and aftercare provided with the product. Face masks, according to the style and ingredients, can have specific guidelines.
If you haven’t chosen a mask yet, we’d love to show you our collection of face mask products, all with a centralised focus on natural ingredients and skinimalism.
Cream Masks
Cream masks are best suited to those with dry or ageing skin; the viscosity should be thick and nourishing.
It’s best to find a cream mask that is alcohol or even fragrance-free to avoid that age-old delayed dry feeling the next day.
How often should you use a cream mask?
Cream masks can be used 2-3 times per week.
How long should you leave a cream mask on?
You should leave a cream mask on for 20 minutes and wash away, or leave it on overnight in place of your regular night cream.
Gel Masks
Gel masks should cool, soothe, and relax the face and skin. Authentic and well-formulated gels use peptides, an essential amino acid that the skin needs to build certain proteins. Also, be on the lookout for antioxidants, a necessary component that helps repair skin and reduce inflammation.
How often should you use a gel mask?
Gel masks should be used 1-2 times per week, morning or night.
How long should you leave a gel mask on?
Allow active ingredients in the gel mask to absorb into facial skin for 10-15 minutes.
Overnight Masks
Overnight masks, simply put, are a godsend. Working on your skincare while you sleep, what’s not to adore? But it’s so important to understand the contents of your chosen overnight mask product; as you can imagine, any harmful ingredients are magnified due to the duration of the treatment.
We encourage looking for a product that is going to nurture your complexion and deliver a rich boost in probiotics, essentially increasing your production of necessary proteins and enzymes needed for a healthy complexion.
How often should you use an overnight mask?
Overnight masks can be used 2-3 times per week for Dry/Dehydrated Skin, and 1-2 times per week for Combination/Oily skin
Clay Masks
A clay mask should help you rid of the impurities in your pores, reducing reoccurring blemishes. You should always look for a clay mask that’s rich in minerals and antioxidants, stimulating new and healthy cell growth.
Clay masks are ideal for people that suffer from acne or have an oily skin complexion.
How often should you use a clay mask?
Clay masks can be used 2 times per week. If you identify as a dry skin type, we recommend sticking to 1 facial a week to avoid cracks or increased dryness.
How long should you leave a clay mask on?
Leave the clay mask on for 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with warm water and a soft cloth.
Yadira Cauchi
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