Using face masks might not be considered essential for a basic skincare routine, but I certainly recommend using them on a regular basis if you want to achieve soft, vibrant skin with fewer blemishes. However, it’s common knowledge that everyone’s skin is different, and one face mask won’t suit all.
We need to be sure we’re using the right one for our skin, so here is a little breakdown of the masks available and what skin type they’re best suited to.
Sheet masks
These are cotton sheets, equipped with eye, mouth, and nose holes, that are placed gently over the face and are soaked in hydrating ingredients. They work as an occlusive seal over the skin which essentially forces moisture into the skin. They are good for combination and oily skin types as they are typically oil-free. People often use them whilst flying to prevent their skin drying out on a plane. And people with generally dry skin will benefit from sheet masks.
Cream masks
This face mask type is designed to plump and hydrate dry and normal skin types. They contain a range of moisturising oils which might not be suitable for oily or combination skin. Unlike clay masks, cream masks usually don’t need to be washed off once they have been applied. They leave your skin feeling soft, nourished, and glowing.
Clay masks
These face masks are recommended for those with oily, combination, and acne-prone skin thanks to its pore-tightening abilities. Clay masks use oil-absorbing clays which feel tight on your face as they dry which promote the tightening and clearing of the pores. However, people using clay masks should be cautious as they can be overdrying for sensitive skin – how do you know if a clay mask is too drying? If when you smile after it has dried, it shouldn’t crack into tiny pieces, if it does, that’s how you know it’s too dry. Applying a serum before the mask can help to prevent this from happening.
Gel masks
These face mask types are best suited to dehydrated, oily, combination, and acne-prone skin due to the hydrating and oil-free properties. Gel masks essentially add water to the skin, and because of their cooling nature, they’re also great for soothing sensitive skin and reducing redness including sunburn. They are great for hot summer months.
Before using any face mask, all skin types will benefit from exfoliating beforehand – it allows the mask to work more effectively by reaching deeper into the skin.
