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Question: Do I need to use a mask?

 

Answer:

 

Masks are applied to the skin to help improve skin texture. In my experience, masks don’t do a whole lot because they are not left on your skin for very long. However, most people use masks once a week as a skin refresher and to give supply the skin with extra nutrients. So, you don't need a mask, but they could be something extra to include in your routine.

 

There are different types of masks and each type of mask aims to do something different to your skin:

  • Clay Masks: Clay masks usually have kaolin or bentonite clay as the main ingredient. They are very similar to mud masks and are applied onto clean skin and then left to dry. You wait until the mask dries and hardens and then rinse. The clay mask helps remove impurities from your skin. Since clay masks can be a bit drying, they are more suitable for those with oily skin types.

  • Peel-Off Masks: Peel off masks are similar to clay masks, except they have an Elmer’s glue type of consistency. You basically apply the mask and wait until it’s dry. Instead of washing the mask off, you peel it off, pulling out impurities in your skin. This type of mask is more suitable for those with drier skin types.

  • Moisture Masks: I think moisture masks are just very heavy creams that you slather thickly on your skin and leave to sit for a few minutes before washing off. They don’t try to remove any impurities you’re your skin, but rather moisture masks try to feed your skin extra hydration and nutrients. Moisture masks can be used with any skin type but they might be a little too much for those with oily skin.

  • Paper Masks: These masks are very popular and common in Asia. They are basically masks made out of fabric that have been soaked in a solution of some sort , folded up, and packaged in individual packets. To use the mask, you unfold the cloth mask and apply onto clean skin. You wait for about 30 minutes and then remove the mask and rub in the leftover residue. You can also rinse your face if you want.

In my opinion, these paper masks are ideal for hydrating your skin because the solution they are soaked in is mostly water. Also, these paper masks are very flexible. Whatever solution they are soaked in can be targeted for different skin types. For example, you can have a BHA paper mask that would be great for acne-prone skin or one with Vitamin C that gives extra oomph in skin brightening.

 

In Asia, you can also purchase paper masks that aren’t soaked in any solution. You can then saturate these masks in a toner, lotion, or treatment of your choice and use accordingly.

 

  • Home-made Masks: Home-made masks are also very popular because they seem like natural skin care product alternatives and they are all found from your kitchen. I’m not sure how well they work, but it definitely is fun to make your own mask! Check here for some great recipes.

When selecting masks, choose one that is appropriate for your skin type in order to get maximum benefits from the mask.

 

 

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