Who doesn’t love a good face mask? They’ve been a part of beauty routines forever, and for good reason. Whether you’re dealing with breakouts, dry skin, or just want that fresh glow, there’s a face mask out there for you. From clay to sheet masks, each type brings its own unique benefits to the table. Let's look into the world of face masks and see how they can help you achieve that perfect skin you're after.
To understand different types of facial masks and know their benefits, OnlyMyHealth team spoke to Dr Deepak Jakhar, Consultant Dermatologist, Dermosphere Clinic, New Delhi.
Dr Jakhar said, “Facial masks are a popular addition to skincare routines, offering a range of benefits tailored to various skin concerns.” Here’s a comprehensive guide given by Dr Jakhar to understand different types of facial masks and their benefits:
1. Sheet Masks
According to him, sheet masks are thin sheets soaked in a concentrated serum, typically made from materials like cotton, cellulose, or hydrogel.
Benefits:
- Hydration: Sheet masks provide intense moisture, making them ideal for dry or dehydrated skin.
- Convenience: They are easy to use and are mess-free.
- Variety: Available for various skin concerns, such as brightening, anti-aging, and calming.
Usage Tips:
Apply on clean skin for 15-20 minutes, then gently pat the remaining serum into the skin for maximum absorption.
2. Clay Masks
Dr Jakhar said that clay masks are made from various types of clay, such as kaolin, bentonite, or French green clay.
Benefits:
- Detoxification: These masks draw out impurities and excess oil from the skin.
- Exfoliation: They help remove dead skin cells, promoting a smoother complexion.
- Oil Control: Clay masks reduce shine and help manage acne-prone skin.
Usage Tips:
Apply an even layer on clean skin, leave on until partially dry (usually 10-15 minutes), and rinse off with warm water.
Also read: Ice Water Facials: Surprising Benefits of Dipping Your Face in Ice Water
3. Cream Masks
Cream masks have rich, creamy formulas often containing nourishing ingredients like oils, butters, and vitamins.
Benefits:
- Moisturizing: They provide deep hydration, ideal for dry or mature skin.
- Nourishing: These masks deliver essential nutrients to the skin, promoting a healthy glow.
- Soothing: They can help calm irritated or sensitive skin.
Usage Tips:
Apply a generous layer on clean skin, leave on for 10-15 minutes, then wipe or rinse off.
4. Gel Masks
Gel masks are lightweight and often contain ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, and botanical extracts.
Benefits:
- Cooling: They provide a refreshing and cooling sensation, great for soothing irritated skin.
- Hydration: Gel masks offer light, non-greasy moisture suitable for all skin types.
- Calming: These masks help reduce redness and inflammation.
Usage Tips:
Dr Jakhar recommended applying a thin layer on clean skin, leave on for 10-20 minutes, then rinse off or leave overnight as an intensive treatment.
5. Peel-Off Masks
Peel-off masks are gel or cream masks that dry to form a peelable layer.
Benefits:
- Exfoliation: They remove dead skin cells and impurities from the skin's surface.
- Pore-Clearing: These masks help unclog pores and remove blackheads.
- Smoothness: They leave skin feeling smooth and refreshed.
Usage Tips:
Apply an even layer on clean skin, avoiding the eye and hairline areas. Allow to fully dry (usually 15-20 minutes), then peel off gently from the edges.
Also read: Medi-Facials: The Secret to Long-Lasting Glowing Skin
6. Charcoal Masks
Often clay-based, these masks contain activated charcoal.
Benefits:
- Detoxification: Charcoal absorbs toxins and impurities from the skin.
- Pore Minimizing: These masks help reduce the appearance of pores.
- Oil Control: They balance oily skin, reducing shine and breakouts.
Usage Tips:
Apply an even layer on clean skin, leave on until partially dry (about 10-15 minutes), then rinse off with warm water.
7. Exfoliating Masks
“These masks contain physical exfoliants (like beads) or chemical exfoliants (like AHAs, BHAs),” Dr Jakhar explained.
Benefits:
- Smoother Skin: They remove dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover.
- Brighter Complexion: Exfoliating masks help fade dark spots and improve skin tone.
- Clearer Skin: They reduce the occurrence of breakouts by keeping pores clear.
Usage Tips:
Apply on clean skin, leave on for the recommended time (usually 5-10 minutes), then rinse off. Follow the product instructions closely to avoid over-exfoliation.
8. Overnight Masks
Also known as sleeping masks, these are applied before bed and left on overnight.
Benefits:
- Intensive Treatment: They provide deep hydration and repair while you sleep.
- Convenience: Overnight masks are easy to use as part of a night time routine.
- Enhanced Results: They boost the effectiveness of other skincare products.
Usage Tips:
Apply a thin, even layer as the final step in your nighttime skincare routine and leave on overnight. Rinse off in the morning.
Choosing the Right Mask
Selecting the right mask depends on your skin type and specific concerns:
- Dry Skin: Opt for hydrating and nourishing masks like sheet masks, cream masks, and overnight masks.
- Oily/Acne-Prone Skin: Use clay masks, charcoal masks, and peel-off masks to control oil and clear pores.
- Sensitive Skin: Choose soothing and calming masks like gel masks and cream masks.
- Combination Skin: Multi-masking (using different masks on different areas of the face) can be beneficial to address various concerns simultaneously.
General Tips
- Always start with clean skin to allow the mask to penetrate effectively.
- Follow the instructions provided with the mask for optimal results.
- Use masks 1-2 times a week, depending on your skin's needs and the mask type.
- Patch test new masks to check for any adverse reactions before applying them to your entire face.
Conclusion
Concluding, Dr Jakhar said, “By understanding the benefits of different types of facial masks, you can choose the ones that best suit your skin’s needs and enhance your skincare routine for a healthier, more radiant complexion.”