How To Use And How To Apply A Facial Mask

The facial masks are probably the easiest way to maintain a beautiful and healthy skin. There are different types of masks appropriate for different skin types. When applying a mask once or twice a week your skin will be smoother, softer and cleaner. Your can reduce blemishes, remove blackhead and whiteheads, minimize the appearance of pores.

Effects of masks are :
-remove the excess oil
-refine pores and minimize the appearance of pores
-cleanse and nourish the skin
-reduce skin irritation
-smooth and calm the skin
-moisturize the skin
-soften the skin
-reduce the number of blackheads and whiteheads
-lighten skin color
-refresh the skin
-stimulate blood circulation

Masks shouldn’t be applied if:
-the skin infection is present
-the skin is sunburned
-if there are cuts, small wounds
-on to hypersensitive skin

An extreme wide range of masks is available to suit all skin types. There are clay masks that draw out toxins and impurities and are essential for keeping the skin clear. They work best for those with oily skin – they remove the excess oil and shrink the enlarged pores. The clay mask should be applied with soft circular motions to help it get into the pores. Always let the mask to dry otherwise it won’t show good results. When the mask is dry rinse thoroughly with water and apply moisturizer. The clay masks can be applied also on the neck, back, and neckline.

Peel off masks /peeling masks/ are intended for soft removal of the dead skin cells from epidermal skin layer, leaving your complexion replenished and radiant. When using a peeling mask apply thin layer on the cleaned skin, avoiding the area around the eyes. Allow at least 10 minutes and then remove the thin layer upwards. The peeling masks cleanse the skin, refine pores and fine lines, accelerate assimilation of nutrients by skin and increase blood circulation. You can apply a peel off mask once or twice weekly.

Paraffin masks hydrate and soften the skin. The paraffin masks expand blood vessels and therefore help the blood circulation. They are appropriate for all skin types, even for those with dry or sensitive skin. The paraffin penetrates deep into the skin, hydrates and softens the skin, leaving your skin clean and soft. The paraffin masks are the best and the easiest way to infuse moisture into the skin.
It’s better if you steam the face before applying any kind of mask. Doing so will loosen debris that may be imbedded into the skin, it will also open the clogged pores. Steaming the face is a useful technique, especially for people with oily skin. You can add rosewater oil to various masks, packs and scrubs for great moisturizing result. The rosewater is known to freshen and smooth the skin. It also works great for shiny oily spots on the T-zone area / nose, chin, forehead/.

Before applying the mask the skin should be cleaned and free of all traces of makeup, oils. Any makeup remaining on the skin may leave to irritation and rash appearance. The mask should be applied thinly over the face. You can use a spatula or your fingers to apply the facial mask evenly. Tie your hair before applying it.
The application time usually takes 10/20 minutes, depending on the mask and your skin type. Those with dry and sensitive skin should leave the mask not more than 15 minutes, and for those with oily skin 15 – 25 minutes.

Step 1

Cleanse your face. Don’t forget to cleanse your neck too. Whatever you are doing with your face, do it also with your neck, even when applying makeup. When you are applying moisturizer, foundation or face powder apply them on the neck, especially during the summer months.

After your face is cleansed let it dry. The facial masks work best when they are applied on clean and dry skin.

Step 2

Follow the instructions written in the pack. Never leave your mask to remain on the skin for more time than it’s written on the pack. Some ingredients could do harm to the skin if they stay put more than necessarily.

There is no need to remove the mask earlier. Once your mask is applied don’t make any facial expressions. Lie on the bed and close your eyes – feel comfortable and relax.

Step 3

Wash your face and neck with lukewarm water using a mild cleanser. Never rub your skin. At the end apply moisturizer, hydrating cream or tonic.


Useful Beauty Tips:
-after a facial, try to stay out of smoky environment and away from makeup too – let the natural glow shine through.
-avoid contact with the eyes – the mask irritates the eyes
-never apply a facial mask to dirty skin
-make sure you have removed the mask entirely
-always test the mask, especially if your skin in sensitive
-if you experience discomfort remove the mask immediately
-always apply a moisturizer at the end

To learn more see also the articles:

The Fruit Masks – the best way to achive amazing skin and body Part I

The Fruit Masks – the best way to achive amazing skin and body Part II

How To Steam Your FaceВ

Make Your Own SPA With Natural ProductsВ

Recommended Products:

Biore Self-Heating Mask ($7.50) – purify pores, gently exfoliate skin and combat shine. Purifies skin by absorbing excess oils and getting rid of pore-clogging dirt. Appropriate for dry and sensitive skins.

Kiss My Face Organics Pore Shrink, Deep Pore Cleansing Mask ($11.50) – controls acne, increase blood circulation and minimizes pores.

Clean&Clear Morning Burst Shine Control Facial Scrub with Bursting Beads ($6) – this oil-free scrub gently exfoliates dead skin cells, removes all the impurities and leaves skin shine-free.

Olay Daily Facials Intensives Deep Cleansing Clay Mask ($21) – draws out excess oil and dirt for a healthy-looking skin.

Chanel Precision Masque Destressant Purete Purifying Cream Mask ($43) – eliminates excess sebum and impurities. Leaves skin smooth, clarified and healthy-looking.

Guinot Exfoliating Peel Off Mask ($34) – gently release dead skin cells and stimulates new cells to form. Promotes a healthier skin and better penetration of facial products.

Lancôme Hydra-Intense Masque ($27) – restores moisture balance and diminish the appearance of dry lines. Keeps your skin well-hydrated for three days.

Vichy Masque Thermal Rehydratant ($20) – softens and calms the skin while smoothing fine lines.

Avene Instant Soothing Moisture Mask ($18) – contains thermal spring water to soothe and soften the skin. Appropriate for all skin types, including those with hypersensitive skin.