Applying Facial Masks

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 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