How to Apply a Face Mask Correctly

The first step in applying your face mask is choosing the right one for your skin type.

• Hydrating. Hydrating cream or sheet masks are good for dry skin types. Some experts recommend applying masks overnight for maximum hydration.
• Clay and mud-based. These are good for oily or mixed skin types.
• Enzyme. Enzyme cream or gel masks and bubble masks are good for acne-prone skin types.
• Gel. These are good for sensitive skin types.
• Antioxidant. Antioxidant cream or gel masks are good for hyperpigmented skin types.

Once you’ve found a mask that works for you, it’s time to apply it. You can extend some face masks to your neck. Some masks should also be massaged into your skin to maximize their efficacy.

Cream mask

Cream masks come in two main types: rinse-off and peel-off.

• In both cases, you apply the mask in the same way by using your fingertips to apply an even layer of cream over your face.
• Avoid getting the cream on your lips, eyes, and eyebrows.

Bubble mask

• Apply a quarter-sized amount of your bubble mask over your face.
• Keep this mask off your eyes and lips.

Sheet mask

1. Remove the sheet mask from its packaging and unfold it without tearing.
2. Line up the mask with your face shape, eyes, nose, and mouth.
3. Gently press the mask to the form of your face until it’s sticking evenly.

Clay or mud-based mask

1. Dip your fingertips into the mask and scoop out a quarter-sized amount.
2. Spread evenly across your face, starting at your upper neck and working your way up your face.
3. Avoid your lips and eyes.

Gel mask

1. As with a cream mask, when using a gel mask, spread an even amount over your face using your fingertips.
2. Avoid getting gel masks in your eyes or on your lips.

Overnight mask

1. Smooth the mask in a thin layer over your face as you would with a normal moisturizing cream.
2. Avoid your eyes and lips.

Most masks, except those labeled as overnight, should be worn for no more than 20 minutes at a time. If you wear them longer, they’ll begin to dry out and dry out your skin.

Rinse-off masks

• Use lukewarm water and your fingers to gently rub the mask off your face.
• Avoid vigorous rubbing.
• Gently pat your face dry after rinsing it off.

Sheet and peel-off masks

For sheet masks and peel-off masks:

1. Gently peel the mask from your face.
2. Take your time and don’t pull hard to remove it from your skin.
3. Once the mask is off, proceed with your regular skin care routine. There’s no need to rinse.

You don’t need to rinse or remove overnight masks. When you wake up, just proceed with your regular skin care routine.

Maximize the effects of your face mask by taking care of your skin before and after application.

Before

Before putting a face mask on, you should take care to cleanse your skin. Find a facial cleanser designed for your skin type and use it liberally before applying your face mask.

Cleansing can help prepare your skin to absorb the nutrients and active ingredients from the mask, maximizing its effectiveness.

After

After removing your face mask, you should moisturize your skin while it’s still damp. Choose a moisturizer designed for your skin type, and apply a thin layer after removing your face mask.

This can help keep your skin hydrated, maximizing the full effects of your mask.

If you’re in a pinch and want to save money and time by using ingredients at home instead of buying face masks, here are a few recipes to try:

Hydrating avocado and cocoa mask

For this mask, you’ll need an avocado, unsweetened cocoa powder, and honey. The rich ingredients in this mask can help hydrate the skin.

1. Mash a quarter of the avocado in a bowl.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa and 1 tablespoon of honey. Mix well.
3. Cleanse your face.
4. Apply and let sit for 10 to 20 minutes.
5. Remove with lukewarm water and moisturize.

Oil-reducing egg and oatmeal mask

You’ll need an egg, honey, olive oil, and oatmeal for this mask. The ingredients can help remove excess oil from skin.

1. Mix the yolk of the egg with 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 tablespoon of olive oil with 1/2 cup of oatmeal.
2. Cleanse your face.
3. Apply and let sit for 15 to 20 minutes.
4. Remove with lukewarm water and moisturize.

Brightening orange honey mask

You’ll need orange juice and honey for this mask, which can quickly help brighten dull skin.

1. Mix 3 tablespoons of orange juice with 1/4 cup of honey.
2. Cleanse your face and apply while rubbing lightly.
3. Remove with lukewarm water and moisturize.

Here are several other DIY recipes for face masks.

As mentioned above, certain masks and ingredients are better suited to some skin types than others. If you’re looking for specific products to buy, here are some recommendations based on skin type.

Dry

• Pure Radiance Cream Mask by Renée Rouleau contains rich oils that hydrate the skin.
• Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 is an overnight mask with hydrating vitamins.

Oily/combination

• DDF Sulfur Therapeutic Mask reduces oil on the skin.
• Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Cleansing Pore Mask contains clay that removes oils and reduces shine on skin.

Acne

• Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask contains pumpkin enzyme that gets rid of surface skin cells.
• Fresh Umbrian Clay Purifying Mask contains minerals that cleanse pores and remove shine.

Sensitive

• Fresh Rose Face Mask contains soothing rose petals suspended in a gel.
• Belif Aqua Bomb Sleeping Mask contains no mineral oils, synthetic preservatives, petrolatum, dyes, fragrances, or animal-derived ingredients.

Face masks have become a popular way to care for the skin on our faces. With so many options out there, all it takes is a bit of research to find the ideal face mask for you.

Face masks are an easy, fun, and relaxing way to care for your skin, and can even be made at home with a few simple ingredients.