Facial Masks

Why Use One?

Ideally, you already have an effective skin care regimen, consisting of cleanser, toner, moisturizer, and sunscreen. A facial mask does not replace your existing skin care products; rather, the mask should work in conjuction with the other products. In fact, the right mask can actually improve the performance of your other products. By removing impurities and opening pores, masks allow cleansers and toners to penetrate skin for a deeper clean.

How to Use a Facial Mask

Facial masks are usually used once or twice weekly to give an added boost to your skin. Most masks are quite intensive, and more frequent use could lead to redness, irritation, or peeling. Although the exact use will vary by product and manufacturer, the basic instructions are as follows:

• Wash face and neck with warm water (warm water opens the pores) and your usual cleanser.
• Pat dry. Do not rub.
• Spread the mask over face and neck. With most products, a thin layer is adequate. Be careful to avoid the eyes and lips.
• Let the product dry on the skin.
• Rinse off with warm water or peel off, depending on the type of mask used.
• Pat dry.
• Use your toner, and continue with your usual regimen.

Commercial Facial Masks

Most commerical facial masks are geared towards a specific skin problem. Acne fighting masks are particularly popular. These masks often combine natural ingredients with stronger, proven acids or chemicals. It is not unusual for users to experience redness and irritation after the first few treatments. If these reactions continue or get worse, you should probably discontinue use. Some popular over-the-counter masks are:

• Fresh Rose Mask. Uses crushed roses, rose water, and cucumber to tighten pores and hydrate skin. Gentle enough for daily use.
• Apivita Express Skin Food with Honey. Honey, cereal proteins, and vitamins combine to tone skin and regenerate cells.For use once or twice weekly.
• Astara Activated Sea Mineral Mask. Uses kelp, sea vegetables, spirulina, jojoba, and other natural ingredients to exfoliate skin and boost antioxidants.
• Joey New York Pure Pores Masque. This clay-based mask utilizes camphor and sulfur to clean clogged pores and absorb oil.

Make Your Own Mask

If you want to save money, it is easy to make facial masks from ingredients you already have in your pantry. Although many people report excellent results with homemade skin care products, your results may vary. Problem skin, especially, may benefit from storebought or prescription products.

Oatmeal Masks

Oatmeal is a highly nourishing ingredient, and it is found in many commercial skin care products. Oatmeal soothes red, irritated skin and it also exfoliates. For best results, use finely milled oatmeal. This is sold at health food stores and many organic stores. Here are a few basic recipes for oatmeal masks:

• Basic Oatmeal. Start with 3 teaspoon oatmeal. Add warm water gradually, mixing until a smooth paste forms.
• Oatmeal and Honey. Start with 3 teaspoon oatmeal. Add honey gradually until a smooth paste forms.
• Oatmeal and Yogurt. Mix 2 tablespoon oatmeal and 2 tablespoon yogurt together in a bowl until the concoction is creamy.