The Many Moods of Masks

Masks are synonymous with spa day-esque self-care rituals. The classic images of slumber parties and pampering in a long, hot bath abound. However, many people doubt whether masks actually do any good for the skin or else what their real function is other than just as a fun indulgence. I'll admit that I used to be one of these mask naysayers, but after having tried some in several kinds of categories I am more of a fan now,

Clay Masks: Clay masks are the most easily recognizable of all types of face masks, and in my opinion, they are the most effective. Basically, the clays included in their formulas set on the skin and harden to draw out impurities and help bring the skin further clarity and treat breakouts and congestion. Though these are often recommended for the oily and acne-prone skin types, I find as someone with dry skin, these are a great and fairly non-agressive way to treat breakouts when I do get them or just to use to give my skin a gentle deep clean. Some products I absolutely love in this category are the Glam Glow Supermud and The Ahava Mineral Radiance instant Detox Mask, both of which have been reviewed on this blog,

Exfoliating Masks: Masks that are marketed as exfoliating masks are generally of the facial scrub variety, and if that is the case, I find that not much separates a scrub from an exfoliating mask. Most of the exfoliating action happens with the initial massage and especially during the process of rinsing it off with these types of masks. However, exfoliating masks can also be rich in either enzymes or exfoliating acids in place of or in addition to the scrubbing particles. When enzymes and/or acids are in play, the leave-on nature of a mask product allows the enzymes time to do a thorough job resurfacing the skin, but the ability to rinse it off (as opposed to an acid toner, for example) enables you to stop the process and better curb chances of exfoliation. My favorite exfoliating mask to date is the Summer Fridays Overtime Mask, which works with a combination of apricot powder and pumpkin enzymes along with some brightening spices to really give skin a glowing and refreshed appearance. You can read the review here.

Moisturizing Masks: Moisturizing masks for me are the most dubious of the main mask categories. Truly, I see no difference between these masks and an extra thick moisturizer or night cream. After rinsing these off, I find a lot of the moisture benefits are compromised, and yet, if I massage the formula in (usually they are cream-textured) as if it were a regular cream, I get really good results. So basically, the takeaway here is rinsing is optional and the thickness of the layer you apply is also arbitrary. To the plus side, though, moisture masks are often packaged in large jars and are sold for comparatively less money per ounce than many heavy-duty moisturizers or night creams from the same or similar brands, so they could be away to get a similar type of product and ingredients for less money or that is made into a thicker texture which can be used more sparingly. My favorite moisturizing mask so far in my explorations is the GlamGlow Berryglow Probiotic Mask, which also has some smoothing properties,

Facial masks are definitely the treats of all the treatments in the skincare world, but I am happy to say that their function is not always just all fluff and stuff. Masks have become some of my most favorite and relied on products to date to both help my skin when its in trouble or for maintenance. So know that when you are treating yourself to a mask night, your skin may very well thank you in spades.