4 types of face masks you need in your skin care routine
Masks are highly effective in skin care and perform a variety of complexion-benefitting functions. They’re also just plain fun — masks are a great way to turn your Friday night into a spa night. Depending on your skin needs they can restore, hydrate, replenish and brighten your skin. We’ve outlined a few great masks you can use based on skin types and their specific needs. Find out which ones suit your skin best below.
1. Antioxidant Mask
Antioxidants can help counteract environmental stresses such as pollution, exhaust gases, smog and more. Look for masks with antioxidants such as Vitamin C, green tea or reservatrol to help your skin fight off aging. Apply after cleansing for a few minutes to let it sink in, then rinse off thoroughly and follow with moisturizer.
2. Sleeping Cream
The worst part of a mask is getting up after 15 minutes of zenned out bliss to wash your face. The good news is, there’s a product that functions like a mask except you can go to sleep while wearing it. It’s called sleeping cream (also known as sleeping mask). It goes on like a cream but hydrates like a mask. Apply the mask as a last step before you go to sleep then wake up to rested-looking, glowing skin. It contains ingredients that can help smooth fine lines and intensely hydrate all while you’re counting sheep. Interested in trying a sleep cream? Garnier SkinActive Miracle Anti-Fatigue Sleeping Cream combines the deeply hydrating power of a mask with the light feel of a lotion. It’s infused with lavender essential oil, hyaluronic and hydroxy acids and when applied to your skin the cream renews, firms and even reduces the appearance of wrinkles.
3. Sheet Mask
Sheet masks are another beauty trend making waves this year in the U.S. They’ve been a staple in Asia for a while now and it’s easy to see why — they hydrate, brighten, refresh without the messiness of usual mask application. “The benefit of sheet masks is to have higher concentration of ingredients penetrate the skin,” says Dr. Diane Madfes, Garnier Consulting Dermatologist. Just pop one on your face and relax for 20 minutes. You’ll emerge with brighter-looking skin. They also make wonderful props for selfies! Don’t forget to apply moisturizer after using to further reap the benefits of the mask and hydrate your skin.
4. Charcoal Mask
A clay mask made with charcoal is a great way to minimize the appearance of your pores particularly if you have very oily skin. Garnier Clean+ 2-in-1 Pore Purifying Mask is formulated with charcoal to draw out impurities like a magnet. Try to use once or twice a week to draw out excess oils and restore pores. Let it rest on your skin for a few minutes until right before it fully dries (don’t wait until it crumbles), then wash the mask off and follow with an oil-free moisturizer.
