Category: Lifestyle | 2-Minute Read
Hi Everyone!
I hope you are all well and safe!
In short, no! But only if you use the right type of mask for what you want to achieve!
Face masks are easy and convenient ways to deliver the right ingredients to the skin to promote healthy skin. They easily accessible, easy to apply and can show instant effects!
Depending on the ingredients you select you can moisturise, rejuvenate, tighten and reduce inflammation of your skin! All in all – the good stuff!
They are available in 4 different mask forms:
1. Sheet masks
This is one of the oldies! They’ve been available for decades!
The main concerns associated with sheet masks are that they can contain artificial fragrances and dyes and parabens, all of which can irritate the skin. So keep a look out for these!
Some physicians suggest that sheet masks are not effective for oily or acne-prone skin as a result of bacteria present on the skin in this cases.
However, there is no supportive evidence for this. Researchers have found that sheet masks improve the absorption of the ingredients as the ingredients remain on the skin for longer.
Sheet masks can come with a variety of ingredients and of different fabric types. I would advise you to steer clear of coarser fabrics which tend to be the least expensive and least effective options. I would suggest using a sheet mask at night time, to allow for the mask to sit on the skin for longer, increasing the penetration of the ingredients especially hydrating masks.
2. Rinse-off masks
These masks can come in many forms!
Waxy formulations are very useful for dry skin improving hydration levels of the skin! Polyherbal formulations are highly capable of retaining moisture and organic sources. Aloe Vera and Green tea containing formulations can work well as an anti-inflammatory agent, for example in active acne cases.
Once again, be cautious of synthetic materials such as parabens as they can irritate the skin.
3. Peel-off masks
These types of masks sit as a film on the skin that is then peeled away, and the cause an occlusive effect (which can help with keeping the moisture in the skin) and a tensor effect (can help lift and tighten the skin). The length of application time depends on the ingredients present in the mask so please do read the instructions pre-application for the best results. Some of the masks contain alcohol as a drying agent and therefore the higher the alcohol content, the quicker the mask dries on your skin. Clay is quite a popular peel-off mask ingredient however, it can really dry out the skin so stay clear if you have dry skin!
4. Hydrogel masks
These are 3D networks of polymers that hold large quantities of water, therefore they are exceptionally useful for sensitive skin as they have soothing and cooling effects.
These gel-type masks can contain many different ingredients that can bring about hydrating and anti-inflammatory effects as well as a reduction in oily skin.
On a side note, home-made masks are becoming more and more popular as there is an increased desire to use natural resources. The long-term effectiveness of these masks are not supported by research and as a result you may see immediate results that don’t last long.
It’s your choice which type of mask you wish to apply but the ingredients should determine which one you use. You need to select the ingredients according to your skin type and what you want to achieve. Do not get distracted by price or fancy packaging (always a bonus though!)
If you have oily skin, try a clay mask
If you have dehydrated skin, choose a sheet mask that contains hyaluronic acid, glycerin, lecithin, propylene glycol draw in the moisture. These are exceptionally useful when the seasons change!
For dull skin, consider brightening agents like vitamin C, azelaic acid, kojic acid.
If you have sensitive skin, try herbal soothing ingredients such as aloe vera & green tea.
How should you apply a face mask?
Before using a face mask, be sure to wash your face with a gentle cleanser and warm water to remove any makeup, dirt or residue. Using warm water allows the pores to stay open and for the ingredients to seep in better. For peel-off and rinse-off masks, I’d highly recommend application with a soft brush to ensure there is an even layer and that you minimise transfer of oil and bacteria from your hands to your face.
The key is to use the right masks regularly in conjunction with your skincare regime to achieve optimal results! They are not a replacement for great skincare.
If you need any help determining which skin type you are and what type of masks you should be using, please never hesitate to contact me!
So that’s all from me folks!
If you found this blog interesting or helpful, please like, share and comment below!
As always,
Prioritise yourselves! 
Dr Natasha Verma 💕
References:
Nilforoushzadeh MA, Amirkhani MA, Zarrintaj P, Salehi Moghaddam A, Mehrabi T, Alavi S, Mollapour Sisakht M. Skin care and rejuvenation by cosmeceutical facial mask. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2018 Oct;17(5):693-702
Someone Might Like This? Share It Now
Need Help?
Consult With Us
We are here to listen and understand your concerns. A detailed consultation will allow for a thorough assessment of what we can do to help you.
