No matter how diligent you are about your skin care regime or how good the products that you use are, you’re going to need a little extra help from time to time. Whether it’s getting rid of pore-clogging debris, adding a little extra moisture, or sloughing off dead, dull cells, your skin can benefit from a targeted skin treatment. That’s where a good mask comes in – not only does it give your skin a much needed boost, but it provides an opportunity to relax for a few minutes at the end of a long day. Who doesn’t need that?
But a mask is only effective if you choose the right one for your skin type and needs. With so many options to choose from, it’s important to know what to look for in a mask so you reap the full benefits for your skin.
Oily skin benefits from a mask more than any other skin type, so if you’re oily, you can use one several times a week. Look for a deep cleaning mask that absorbs excess oil and removes impurities from the pores to prevent breakouts. Masks for oily skin usually contain ingredients like clay, which soaks up oil, and salicylic acid, a chemical exfoliant that can penetrate the pores for deep cleaning.
Dermalogica’s Skin Refining Masque is ideal for oily skin because it utilizes two types of clay, kaolin and bentonite, to pull impurities from the skin and absorb excess oil that can clog the pores. You can use the mask all over your face, or just target your T-zone if that’s where you get the oiliest. To apply the mask, wash your face as you normally would and smooth a thin layer over your skin while it’s still slightly damp. Let the mask set for 10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with warm water. Depending on how oily your skin is, you can use the Skin Refining Masque one to two times a week.
If you have oily skin and an acne problem, you may want to try the Dermalogica Sebum Clearing Masque. Like the Skin Refining Masque, it contains kaolin and bentonite clays to remove excess oil, but it also has salicylic acid to exfoliate the pores and help treat and prevent breakouts. You can use it as an all-over mask, or target specific areas on your face that are prone to breakouts. Apply it to cleansed, slightly damp skin and allow it set for 10 minutes before rinsing with warm water. If you have persistent acne, you can use the Sebum Clearing Masque up to three times a week.
Dry skin benefits from a mask that adds moisture and helps soothe stressed, dehydrated skin. Look for products with emollient ingredients like glycerine, aloe vera, jojoba oil, shea butter or vitamin E to treat your skin. Dermalogica Skin Hydrating Masque can work wonders if you have dry skin. Its gel formula is soothing to dehydrated skin and contains a blend of calming botanicals and antioxidants to help restore moisture. Apply to freshly cleansed skin and allow it to penetrate for 7 to 10 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water to remove and follow with your favorite moisturizer. Depending on how dehydrated or stressed your skin is, you can use the mask up to two times a week.
If you have sensitive skin, you want a mask that calms redness and irritation. Look for an option that’s free of artificial fragrances and colors, which might trigger a reaction if you’re sensitive. Dermalogica’s UlraCalming Relief Masque is the perfect option for sensitive skin. Its gentle, creamy formula contains Colloidal Oatmeal and ginger to help reduce redness and irritation and prevent future flare-ups. Apply a generous layer of the mask to your face and throat – or target areas that are particularly sensitive like your cheeks. Let it absorb for at least 10 minutes to ensure that mask has fully activated before rinsing with warm water. You can use the UltraCalming Relief Masque two to three times a week depending on your skin’s irritation level.
With the right mask, your skin will look and feel healthier – and you’ll have the perfect excuse to lie back and relax for a few minutes each week. It’s definitely a step worth incorporating in your skin care routine.