What you need to know before you buy skincare masks

I started using skincare masks about two years ago when I decided to step up my skincare routine which had been pretty much non existent before that point. Since I’m in my thirties and want to keep my skin looking young (people tell me I could pass for a 22 year old all the time) having a skincare routine becomes much more important. I tried out so many products before I found the ones that work for my skin, and one of the things that makes your evening skincare routine even more enjoyable are facial masks, and in my case sheet masks in particular.  I use them on a weekly basis (and am currently considering changing that to a daily practice as my skin has been drier than usual). If you’ve never used sheet masks before and aren’t sure which one is right for you, I hope that this post will help steer you in the right direction.

Here are some some ‘rules’ to follow before you buy sheet masks.

One // Know your skin type

It’s important to know if you have dry, combination or oily skin before you even consider buying a sheet mask. If you have dry skin, there are masks that specifically target that and you never want to use a mask specially for dry skin if you have oily skin. Since I fall under the dry (and occasionally combination) skin I go with masks that promise maximum hydration. Your face not only feels better have moisture has been added back in, but if you have troublesome lines (smile lines) then a moisturizing masks will plump up the skin in those areas.

Two // Do you have sensitive skin?

If the answer is yes, you’re going to want to make sure that the mask you use is hypo-allergenic. The mask description will usually include this type of information.

Three // What type of mask?

There are sheet masks that you apply and then allow all the serum that remains to soak in. Charcoal Masks like this one from Origins that you apply and then rinse off… and then there are masks that you can apply (wash off in a certain amount of time) or keep on over night and rinse off in the morning.

Four // Are you dealing with an skin issues in particular?

Want to shrink your pores? Have dull skin? Need some serious hydration? Dark circles or skin discoloration? There are masks for these issues and more.

 

Important things to remember when you mask.

• Always start with a cleansed face
• Apply toner like this one from Mizon or this mask primer from Origins to help your skin absorb even more nutrients from your mask
• Wear the sheet mask for the time given on the mask
• Use excess serum from the mask on your neck to help prevent signs of aging. (You can also apply excess serum to your hands, elbows and even your knees!)

Some of my favorite places to pick up masks are Peach & Lily where I go for all things KBeauty and Sephora (Dr Jart+ has so many amazing masks). You can also find sheets masks on your grocery aisle!