Any pamper night isn’t complete without a face mask, but we know it can be tricky to find the perfect match for your skin type. From brightening treatments to peel-off exfoliating routines, there are plenty of options for that oh-so-luxurious experience. What better way to refresh your complexion than with some dedicated TLC, right?
Make the right choice and let your mask work its magic, thanks to our guide to face masks. It's full of advice on skin moisture levels and areas of concern.
Which face mask is best for your skin type?
Different skin types have different needs. Whether you want to hydrate, brighten or refresh after a tiring week, you should always choose a face mask compatible with your skin's general oil and moisture levels. Let's take a look at the most common skin concerns.
Oily skin
If you have excess oil, you'll want to choose a mask with shine control. Our Clearskin Charcoal Face Mask uses a colour-changing formula to draw out pore-clogging dirt, leaving your skin feeling purified and mattified. A K-beauty staple, charcoal masks are ideal for combating an oily feel or shine on your face, as it works hard to reduce excess sebum production. We love pairing a deep-cleansing mask with a rich, non-comedogenic moisturiser.
Dull skin
For dull-feeling skin, use a face or sheet mask designed to remove flaky, dry skin. Make your skincare routine feel really luxe by trying our Radiance Maximising Gold Mask, a peel-off mask with real gold and pearlescent pigments to give your skin that extra touch of radiance. Leave it on for around 20 minutes to get the full benefits – the perfect time to prep your next skincare step – and enjoy skin that feels and looks more energised.
Acne-prone skin
If you're prone to blemishes or those dreaded blackheads, face masks can be an excellent way to incorporate a deep cleanse without being too harsh. Our Blackhead Clearing Sheet Mask is infused with vitamin E as part of its active ingredients, giving you a bright finish and a dose of anti-inflammatory power. Clarifying face masks are another fantastic way to remove excess oil, and you can use them multiple times per week, even on sensitive skin.
Mature skin
Worried about fine lines? Always hydrate mature skin as part of your pamper routine, so opt for a face mask or concentrate with plumping properties. We love the Anew Anti-Wrinkle Hyaluronic Acid Concentrate for daily use – it’s our go-to anti-ageing mask specially formulated for mature skincare. Pair it with a hydrating overnight mask to banish dehydrated skin a few times per week.
Now that you know which mask works best for your skin type, get the most out of it by following this quick step-by-step guide.
- Use cleanser first: it's tempting to skip this step, but you'll get the best results if you use your favourite cleanser to fully prep your skin for treatment. Wash off but avoid scrubbing when you're removing the product.
- Apply to dry skin: sheet masks, in particular, work best when applied to dry skin. To make the most of your sheet mask, apply it to clean skin so it can sink into your pores.
- Apply according to mask type: sheet masks need to be unfolded (carefully!) and applied to the contours of your face, whereas clay masks and cream masks should be applied while avoiding the delicate areas around your eyes and lips. For an overnight mask, use it like you would a moisturiser – smoothing movements and all.
- Let it sit: face masks take time to work, so make sure you follow the guidelines and relax while it dries. People with sensitive skin, in particular, shouldn't leave a mask on for too long, but an extra few minutes won't hurt.
- Remove carefully: always check to see how your mask should be removed! For cream and clay masks, rinse with lukewarm water. For peel-off masks and sheet masks, there's no need to rinse off. As a bonus, you can smooth the remaining formula into your skin.
- Moisturise: Face masks make your skin feel gorgeously smooth, and pairing them with a good moisturiser will definitely heighten their hydrating properties. Use the right moisturiser for your skin type to ensure you're following the correct skincare routine.
We all know not to exfoliate our skin too often, but did you know you shouldn't overuse a face mask? All skin types need time to relax – particularly acne-prone or sensitive skin – and while face or sheet masks are a gentle at-home treatment, you should still give your pores a rest between uses. As a general rule, don't apply mud or clay masks more than 3 times per week, but charcoal masks can be used as part of a weekly skincare top-up.
Overnight masks are made to hydrate and replenish your skin, so you can use one every night if you wish! Peel-off and exfoliating face masks can contain BHAs, which are quite strong, so make sure you use them sparingly. Finally, sheet masks and other gel formulae can be used in place of your serums as part of a daily routine.
If in doubt, your chosen mask should have a how-to guide.
Mad about skincare and selfcare? Pamper yourself this Sunday with 5 self care routines we love. Face masks very much included!