Face Mask Guide: Why to Use a Face Mask and Which Mask to Use

To everything there’s a season, and to every skin type there is a face mask! But, which mask is right for your skin type? There are a number of challenging questions for you to answer when choosing the right mask:

• Do I need exfoliation?
• Will this mask leave my skin dry or will it exacerbate my oiliness?
• Can I sleep in this mask?

Let’s begin by first sorting out the reasons why you need a face mask, when you should use one, and how to apply.

Why should I use a face mask?

Everyone needs a little extended tender love and care, and it’s no different for your skin. Going through a normal skin care routineis great, and really should be the default, but some days you just need to kick it up a notch. A mask is meant just for this, as it is meant to sit on the skin for a period of time before being cleansed off.

When to use a face mask?

Two to three times a week when you have the time, and we can already anticipate many of you saying, “Time for pampering? I barely have time to myself!” Here’s a solution: Mask while you multitask! First make sure the mask is thick enough so that it won’t drip when you’re looking down or moving about, then get to work.

How do I use a face mask?

1. Before masking you need to cleanse your skin. This not only removes dirt and grime off your face, but you're now providing more surface area of the skin for the mask to be in contact with.

2. Gather 1-2 dime-sized amounts of mask into your hand and then spread a thin layer of the mask onto your face using the tips of your fingers.

3. Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes, or as directed on the mask.

4. Remove with disposable cotton squares if available, or a clean towel.

Which face mask do I use?

We know, the choices can be overwhelming sometimes, and many masks may seem to have overlapping benefits. The best way to begin is to choose a mask by your skin type or concern. Read on and discover the right mask for you!

OILY / PROBLEM SKIN

We don’t have to tell you about signs of oily problem skin, but you know it is a constant skin concern. On those days when your skin seems to be overrun with problems, take an extra 10 to 15 minutes and apply a deep pore cleansing mask. Look for natural masks with deep cleansing clays that help absorb excess oils from the surface of the skin.

My mask is: Hydra Medic® Sea Mud Perfecting Mask 

OR Matchafina Cleansing Mask

OILY SKIN

If you can wipe your face clean and in a short amount of time it’s oily again, this is your skin type. Oily Skin is caused by overactive sebaceous glands, is thicker in texture, and has enlarged pores. You want a mask with oil fighting ingredients and natural exfoliating ingredients, like rice bran wax and lactic acid, to help remove dead skin cell build up that contributes to clogged pores..

My mask is: One-Minute Exfoliating Mask

COMBINATION SKIN (OILY AND DRY)

This skin type is very common and benefits from a mask that helps to balance out the excess oil and bring moisture to dry areas. You want a mask with exfoliators, like almonds and oatmeal, to help remove dead skin cell build up, but ingredients that will also help to retain moisture, like honey, which acts as a natural humectant.

My mask is: Honey & Almond Scrub

SENSITIVE SKIN

Help lessen the appearance of irritation caused by travel, climate changes and pollution by reaching for a mask that is designed for  sensitive skin types. Seek out a mask that will not only introduce moisturizing ingredients like olive oil and seaweed, but also ones that have historically been associated with  helping to calm the skin’s appearance such as calamine. A light peeling action, provided though gentle acids like lactic acid, will also help to cleanse the top layer of skin, prepping it to best receive the other beneficial ingredients.

My mask is: Hydra 4® Mask 

OR Red-Out® Soothing Sheet Mask

UNEVEN SKIN TONE, DARK SPOTS

Concealer and foundation are usually your best friends, but you def need to add a new bestie to the mix: a brightening mask! You’ll want to be on the lookout for ingredients like daisy and licorice to assist in improving the appearance of dark spots, and a combination of gentle exfoliating glycolic acids to help exfoliate the surface of the skin. Soon enough you’ll be looking on the bright side!

My mask is: BIOLIGHT™ Brightening Miracle Mask 

OR BIOLIGHT™ Brightening Sheet Mask

FINE LINES, AGING

Want to reduce the appearance of fine lines, firmer-looking skin, and a brighter-looking complexion? If these signs of aging are your concern, You'll want to use a mask that utilizes seaweed, peptides and niacinamide - the all star ingredients that help to hydrate, firm and brighten (and can actually really benefit ALL skin types!)

My mask is: Triple Action Peptide Mask

My mask is: Vita Cura B3 Lifting Mask

DEHYDRATED OR DRY SKIN

If no matter what season it is your skin is constantly flaky, course, and feels tight after you wash up in the morning, you may have dry or dehydrated skin. Look for a mask with super hydrating ingredients like seaweed and hyaluronic acid or moisturizing ingredients like, shea butter, mango seed butter or cocoa. 

Dehydrated Skin: Lamina Lift™ Hydrating Seaweed Mask

Dry Skin:Hydra Dew® Illuminating Cream Mask 

OR Chocofina Moisturizing Mask

Once you’ve found your skin type and corresponding mask, the real work begins. It is up to you to use and maintain your new routine, because the best product in the world means nothing if it’s not used properly. You’ve done the asking, now it’s time to get masking!