Skincare Basics: Face Mask 101
Seemingly at the forefront of most people’s self-care routines, face masks are truly everything. They help us get our skin together so that we can look and feel like the glowy goddess within, help us cover up our sad, and overall make you feel like you’re getting at least a portion of the spa day you deserve. In this day and age, though it’s easier to access information about products, etc. it can be difficult to figure out where to start when you’re trying something new! Whether face masks are a part of your skincare ritual or self-isolation has you ready to find a new relaxing hobby, we’ve got the 411 on it all. Sit back, relax, and welcome to the wonderful world of skincare!
Face Mask 101: What’s for Me?!
Like most other products, when it comes to face masks we’re blessed with a slew of options! I’m talking everything from sheet masks to jelly masks, ones that foam up when they’re ready and some that have a little extra fun included as well; whether that be a little glitter, or it coming as a kit that you put together yourself! Whatever you’re looking for, there’s a chance it’s out there for you, but of course, with all skincare, it’s best to keep skin type in mind before use. Some masks may be better for you personally, whereas some may cause a reaction to your skin. Ultimately, opting for a mask that targets your key issues (i.e a hydrating mask for dry skin, a brightening mask for dull skin, etc.) will best suit you and yield greater results. It’s also important to follow the instructions on your chosen mask for application tips; for less mess and product waste, be sure to keep a face brush handy for non-sheet masks!
Benefits of Adding Masks into Your Routine
So you know you’ve got options, but what’s so great about masks in the first place?! Well for starters, it’s not only a great way to treat your skin to an at-home spa day, but it also is ideal for when you’re needing a little extra TLC. Depending on the mask you’re going for and the problems you’re targeting, face masks can truly alter your skin for the best. Think about it like this; when you just wash your car with soap and water, sure it looks beautiful and clean, but when you add that extra step of waxing (face masks in this analogy) it takes things to the next level. Your car is not only clean and beautiful but taking that extra step almost unlocks all it’s best features. When you take the extra step to add face masks to your skincare ritual, you help take your skin to the next level! It’s not just clean skin, it’s skin that may be more glowy or youthful in appearance, skin that can breathe and is ready to absorb the products that follow.
What Types of Face Masks are There?
There are multiple different types of face masks, some include clay, sheet, peel off, foam/bubble, jelly, and overnight masks. As noted earlier, choosing a mask comes down to your skin type and the results you are looking to achieve. Each type of mask comes with its benefits and again, depending on the desired results, have different purposes. Some masks may have anti-aging properties, whereas some may be hydrating, exfoliating or give some extra glow. Sheet masks are great for dry skin as they’re usually very hydrating whereas peel-off/bubble masks are great for acne-prone skin as they are great for drawing out impurities. Another great thing when it comes to face masks is that some, particularly sheet masks, leave an essence (think product concentrate) for you to gently pat into your skin after taking the mask off of your face. In general, it’s a good idea to mask 1-3 times a week, depending on what you’re using so no worries about your skin not keeping up!
DIY Masks vs. Storebought Masks
Now that you have a general idea of what’s out there, you may also be wondering what the difference is between making one yourself and just buying one. Of course, budget and preference have a role to play! The great thing about DIY face masks is that usually, they’re pretty cost-effective and you may already have a good portion of ingredients at home. You can be sure of exactly what’s going into it and have control over the consistency of your mask as well as the ratio of ingredients in it. This is excellent especially if you’re following a recipe but adjusting it to your skin’s needs! It can be a bit time consuming and possibly messy, but is a viable option nonetheless! Storebought masks have their perks as well; while they may not always be as cost-effective as a DIY mask, they’re already formulated for you. This can make it easier to apply as it’s packaged and also comes with instructions, especially if it requires any mixing together on your end. It is important to note that storebought masks can/may have some synthetic ingredients and/or chemicals, so if that’s something of concern keep this in mind!
Professional Approved Favorites + A DIY Recipe
Of course, we can’t leave you without some recommendations! There are so many amazing face masks out there, but most importantly we’ll be sharing a couple of dermatologist/professional approved face masks along with a DIY recipe for you to try if you’re looking for something to keep you occupied. When it comes to storebought, the following have been named some of the best:
Dr. Dennis Gross Clarifying Mask with Collodial Sulfur Perfect for those with acne-prone skin or breakouts, it’s an overnight mask that helps clear impurities and doesn’t cause any extra irritation.
Drunk Elephant F-Balm Electrolyte Waterfacial Mask The electrolytes in this star are perfect for providing healthy, hydrated and supple skin!
Kiehl’s Calendula & Aloe Soothing Hydration Mask Dry skin’s best friend, it’s got a cooling gel feel and feels amazing on your skin.
GlamGlow Super Mud Clearing Treatment Great for preventing acne, and visibly (gross!) draws out oil/guck in your pores for bright and clean skin!
Origins Original Skin Retexturizing Mask with Rose Clay Great for minimizing the appearance of pores and gives that coveted glow!
A fun and simple mask to do at home (and a personal favorite of mine!) is a Green Tea and Honey mask. As if I needed another excuse to make a cup of tea and make another mask!! This is actually one of the first masks I taught myself to make and is always what I end up going back to when I’m not in the mood for a storebought one.
The recipe is as follows:
A green tea bag (moistened, so make a cup but be sure to take it out before adding sugar, etc.!)
Honey
Yes, that’s it!! Cut open the tea bag, put the leaves into a bowl and stir in some honey until it forms a little paste. Simply leave it on for 15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water. This mask smells amazing and is chock full of antioxidants, clears up redness and helps to prevent blackheads.
Final Thoughts
The world of skincare is surely a big one, but it’s a lot less overwhelming when you dissect the products within it. It’s so awesome that even in the midst of a storm there are still so many ways to get creative and provide ourselves with a little bit of normalcy. I hope that this has answered questions, perhaps raised a few, and gets you eager to try something new! When trying new products always remember to patch test, keep your skin type in mind prior to buying/making a mask and have fun! Tag us in your face mask selfies on Instagram, and don’t forget to snag your free Bridal Guide while you wait for your glowy results!
