Ladies, first things first so let us start by making it clear for everyone what a face mask is and what is the purpose of using one.
Face masks are products that are meant to hydrate your skin and drain out impurities, excess oil, makeup, dirt and pollution. Using a face mask will leave your skin glowing, radiant and fresh. Mud and clay mask proved amazing results in unclogging pores and leading to a brighter skin. On top of addressing specific skin issues such or dullness or a very oily face, they can be also a very relaxing experience.
There are four types of facial masks, each one addressing specific issues. But before we jump in to see which are those, keep in mind that the ideal face mask should contain three essential ingredients: an exfoliant (ideally a natural one), an antioxidant and collagen or hyaluronic acid to stimulate the regeneration of skin cells. Finding the right face mask that fits these ingredients is not an easy task. From June 2019 you will be able to purchase our “Botanical Restorative Mud Mask” that contains all the above ingredients.
Now that is clear for everyone what a face mask is and what are it’s benefits, let us move to the next step: choosing the right mask for your skin type. The four type of face mask that you can find on the market are:
I. Mud/Clay masks
Mud masks are usually recommended for acne prone and oily skin. They do a great job in removing the impurities (dirt, pollution, excess oil) and unclogging your pores. Mud mask proved great results in reducing blackheads and reducing the size of your pores.
II. Oil masks
Oil masks are meant for very sensitive skin and they promise you a baby skin. They proved to be very efficient for mature and very sensitive skin.
III. Gel masks
Gel masks are great when it comes to brightening your skin and making it glow. If your skin gets easily irritated then the gel mask is the one you need. Your skin will feel toned and ready for being moistured.
IV. Creme masks
Cream masks were created for aging skin or for those of you who have a very dry skin. It usually contains a powerful moisturizer that will hydrate your skin and leave it smooth.If you carefully read the above text, you should already know what a face mask is and which type of mask is best for your skin. So, if you are ready, let’s learn how to correctly use the face mask.
Step 1: Cleanse your face
Remove impurities and grease such as excess oil and make sure your skin is fresh and cleansed. When applying the cleanser always massage from the bottom to the top and from the center towards the exterior of your face. Do not neglect your T zone, it is often here that most of oil excess accumulates. Rinse with lukewarm water to keep the pores open.Step 2: Apply a toner
Use toner to exfoliate dead skin-cells and impurities. This will prepare your skin to receive the full benefits of the face mask. This step is especially important if it has been a long time since you have exfoliated your skin the last time. Pat dry your face with a towel. You are now ready to use the face mask.Step 3: Apply the face mask
Always apply the mask on dry skin by using your finger tips or a soft paintbrush and evenly distribute it on your face. Avoid going too close to your eyes or mouth and do not neglect the neck. A face mask is better applied with a soft brush or a tint one (such as the one you use for dyeing your hair) but you do not have one, no worries. Just make sure your hands are clean before applying the product.
You should keep the mask around 10-15 minutes in order for the skin to absorb all the enriching components. Set a timer and take some time to relax while waiting. After the time indicated on the box of the products has passed, remove the mask with the help of warm water and a washcloth. Make sure you wipe away all the product and pay special attention to your hairline and under your chin.
Step 4: Moisturize
Although your face might seem moisturized and smooth, do not lose the momentum and apply a rich face cream to lock the benefits of the face mask you’ve just used.
If you respected the indications above, you should enjoy by now a clean, smooth and brightening skin. The purpose of using a face mask is to clean your pores and nourish your skin layers but if you do it wrong, your skin might end up all dry and irritated. Here are a few tips and advices you should always take into account when using a face mask:
- Do not wait until the mask get dry and starts to crack on your face. Instead, be sure to clean with warm water as soon as the first regions of the mask start to get dry. Usually that is no more than 10-15 minutes.
- Do not apply the mask with dirty hands. Having your hands clean is as important as it is to have a clean face or you will end up transferring bacteria and oil from your hands to your face. Alternatively, you can use a brush to spread the mask evenly on your face.
- Always remember: less is more. Do not exaggerate by applying a thick layer of the mask.
- Do not use a mask for more than once or two times per week.