Face Mask 101: Everything You've Ever Wanted to Know About Masking
When it comes to skin care, there’s nothing quite as relaxing and rewarding as applying a face mask. There’s just something about taking a little extra time out of your day to give your skin some TLC—even if it requires adding an additional step to your skin care routine—that makes all the difference, especially after a long work week. Of course, with so many different types of masks to choose from, it can be overwhelming to narrow down the option that’s best for your specific skin care concerns. Want the face mask 4-1-1? Keep reading for everything you’ve ever wanted to know about masking!
You may have a general idea about what exactly a face mask is, but how do you go about applying and removing a mask? This is all dependent on if you use a rinse-off or a no-rinse mask. Apply your mask as directed—whether that involves layering the formula onto your skin with your fingers or smoothing a sheet down to mold it against the contours of your face. Then, leave it on for the amount of type specified. If you’re using a rinse-off mask, simply wash the mask off with lukewarm water after those ten to fifteen minutes have passed. If you’re using a no-rinse option, gently remove the mask from your skin and massage any residue over your face. Rather than using a face mask as part of your everyday skin care ritual, treat your skin to a mask a few times a week. We love pampering ourselves at least once mid-week and once more when the weekend hits!
When it comes to the different types of face masks, clays masks are a personal favorite of ours. You’ve likely seen endless selfies on Instagram of beauty gurus rocking their own clays masks as they’re seriously on-trend. Clay masks—as you may have guessed—are formulated with clays and have a thick, creamy consistency that feels delightfully spa-like on your skin. The L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay line includes five clay masks, each of which are formulated with three pure clays to pamper your skin. Not sure which mask is for you? Find out below.
If you don’t have enough time during the week to dedicate a few extra minutes to a rinse-off face mask, a no-rinse option like a sheet mask may be the answer to all of your workweek face mask problems. Sheet masks are great because they contain enough product for one application, are applied directly to your face, and can be instantly removed once time is up! This is an especially convenient option if you’re traveling and are in need of a single-use face mask. They tend to be great for those with dry skin as they usually provide your skin with nourishing hydration which is totally ideal for the winter months.
Peel-off masks are another no-rinse option. Peel-off formulas are typically brushed or smoothed onto skin, similar to how you might apply a clay mask, but are (as you may have guessed) peeled off your face when it’s time for removal. Make sure to do so slowly and gently as to not tug at your skin. Don’t fret if your mask doesn’t come off in one face-shaped piece—that tends to only happen in the movies! Peel-off masks are generally great for those with acne-prone skin as they can draw out dirt and impurities that have built up on your skin.
Bubble masks are one of the latest skin care trends—and it’s easy enough to see why! What’s not to love about a bubbly foam on your face? When the mask is applied to your skin, the carbonated bubbles react with oxygen in a similar fashion to carbonated soda. The bubbles provide a gentle exfoliation and help remove makeup, dirt, oils, and impurities.
Editor’s tip: This is another type of mask that makes for super fun selfies, so don’t forget to take a few snapshots!
If you’re a busy bee, overnight masks may be the best type of face mask for you. Then again, who wouldn’t want to reap skin care benefits while they sleep? Overnight masks do just that—provide your skin with various benefits while you catch some shut-eye. Simply apply the mask before bed—just as you would a regular ol’ facial moisturizer—and wake up with beautiful skin. Try the L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Triple Power™ Intensive Overnight Mask, which is formulated with Pro-Xylane and centella asiatica botanical extract.
Anti-aging masks come in many forms but they all have the same goal: to help prevent and diminish visible signs of aging. Our personal favorite? The L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Cell Renewal Rosy Tone Mask. This powerful gel mask with AHA and imperial peony is enhanced with a mineral exfoliant to leave you with a rosy, radiant glow. Doesn’t that sound nice? Over time, aging skin can become dull and lose its rosy complexion but this mask will help revive your skin for a refreshed, healthy look.
You may have come across the oh-so-popular term “multi-mask” in your skin care endeavors. But what exactly is multi-masking? Multi-masking involves using multiple face masks at once, applying different formulas to different areas of your skin to address a multitude of skin care concerns. Let’s be honest—none of us have perfect skin. Taking that one step further, none of us have just one skin-related problem to tackle. Multi-masking is the solution to all of your skin care problems—allowing you to treat dry skin, dull skin, breakouts, and whatever else ails you, all at once!
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Hi, I'm Beauty Genius, your new AI Beauty Assistant
Powered by Generative AI, I'll help you build a personalized routine and find the perfect products for you.
What is the best mascara for me?
What is the right skincare routine for me?
How do I dye my hair at home?
or start a conversation
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