Various types of face masks and their uses

 

People have been using face masks as part of their skin care regimen for millennia. Cleopatra was said to have used clay, Dead Sea mud and egg whites as facial masks in ancient Egypt, and other cultures followed with natural facial and skin care practices. Regardless of the ingredients used, all recognized the importance of caring for the skin.

Using a face mask as part of your regular skin care routine could be beneficial to your skin—if you’re doing it right, that is. Face masks can help address specific skin care concerns (like dullness or oily skin)—plus, they can be a totally relaxing, spa-like experience.

Clay Masks:

Clay and mud masks are easy to recognize. Their thick consistency and trademark green, brown, or gray color is notable. These masks are known for their “detoxifying” effects, where they draw oil and dirt from your pores. Because of their purifying results, clay and mud masks are best for acne-prone, oily, combination, or dull skin.
Popular on Amazon, Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay is a 100 percent bentonite clay powder that can be mixed with water or apple cider vinegar for a pure clay mask.

Charcoal masks:


In the medical field, activated charcoal has been used for years to detox the body of poison and substance overdose. In skin care, activated charcoal masks are believed to remove impurities and help with acne.
Because they’re known to help absorb oil and impurities, charcoal masks are best for acne-prone, oily, and combination skin types.

Peel-off masks :-

Peel-off masks are applied as gels that dry to a film-like consistency and are then peeled off. As the mask is peeled off, it takes with it dirt, oil, and other impurities that can clog pores. These masks are best for rough or uneven texture and dull skin.

Mask to choose based on skin types

Oily Skin

Oily skin is more prone to breakouts and acne than dry skin, and a mask that unclogs the pores and removes trapped oil and dirt is best. Clay masks work well to draw out the oil, but they should only be worn for 15 minutes and no more than three times a week. They’re more effective if you don’t let them dry completely. Look for face masks that feature hyaluronic acid or alpha hydroxy acid (AHA).

If your skin is sensitive or dry

If your skin is already sensitive or dry, you need to watch out for facial masks that could stress your skin. A hydrating mask is best and should include hyaluronic acid and ceramides. It might also have aloe, olive oil and/or witch hazel oil for extra moisture. One that has oatmeal may help to de-stress sensitive skin. Applying a face mask more than once a week can dry out your skin even more.

If your skin is mature

Mature skin begins to lose elasticity and can look dull. A facial mask that hydrates and evens skin tone is helpful. Look for masks that feature antioxidants to fight free radicals and collagen to improve elasticity. Shea butter and argan oil can add moisture and help diminish fine lines. Niacinimide is an important anti-aging ingredient and is made up of vitamin B3 (niacin) and amino acids. An exfoliating mask that includes AHA can help remove dead skin cells that make skin look dull. If you use an anti-aging mask, apply it no more than twice a week.

Consider the season and weather
Skin tends to be dryer in the winter than in the summer. When it’s cold outside, your cheeks can become red and chapped, and they need more attention. You can safely use a moisturizing mask several times a week in the winter. On the other hand, your skin may need more oil control in the heat of summer. If you have acne, symptoms may become more apparent. A mask that cleanses and refreshes – one with clay or perhaps seaweed – may help. In the summer, you probably will want to use a facial mask only once a week.

Conclusion:

You can find face masks for every skin type and every skin need. Because so many different formulas and uses exist, there’s no one answer for how often or how long you should wear a face mask.
Always consult the label or packaging for best use, and if you’re ever concerned, ask a dermatologist for their advice.