Something about applying a face mask feels like pampering, taking time out and improving my wellbeing!  I believe that everyone over 35 years old should be enjoying this step in their skincare routine.  I hope my experience helps you to make a decision about what to try next or for the first time.

I have been asked several times to review products that I have used over the years and I will start with face masks.  The reason for this is because recently I have introduced face masks more regularly and can see the difference to my skin – it also forces me to stop for 10-20 minutes.  It is an easy product to include in your morning routine – put it on when you wake up and get back into bed with a cuppa tea before work!  I have been using face masks for several years and have tried these four different types recently:   

Dry sheet mask

There is a lot of buzz and hype around dry masks currently.  I have tried Nannette De Gaspo  dry mask a few times and it is beautiful.  It leaves my skin soft and dewy after 15 minutes.  While it is a pricey investment, it is still cheaper than a facial and you can use the same dry mask up to 5 times.  I would recommend you try this before a special occasion or as part of your mask collection, but not as the only one.  The advantage with a dry mask is that you can work, write, walk around or practice yoga while you are wearing it!

Wet sheet mask

I had mixed results with the two wet sheet masks.  The French Fulorga mask is very wet, so make sure you are wearing a towel when you use it – less easy to walk around and make a cuppa while the mask is on.  It left my skin feeling soft (not dewy) and hydrated, a nice change to the dry sheet mask.

The second wet sheet mask is No 7 Boots and left my skin feeling hydrated, but not as plump and creamy as the Nannette De Gaspo dry mask.  This is a good ‘inbetweener’ product that will not break the bank but still gives you some moisture and freshness to your skin.

Creamy Muddy mask

 The creamy muddy mask I tried is called Mario Badescu, enzyme revitalising mask.  This is a more ‘traditional’ feeling mask, but it does work.  I like the exfoliating effect (which is less common) of rubbing off the mask after 15 minutes – it feels like you have cut out a step in your cleansing routine.  My skin felt amazing although a bit dry because the mud turns from creamy to muddy – good for slightly oily skin although I have normal skin and love it.

In Summary:

  • The older you get the more often you should include a mask because generally skin gets dryer and pores become enlarged.
  • Include a range of types and prices – masks do different things, but look for the highest level of active ingredient in your selection.
  • Generally, look for masks that refine pores, draws out impurities, increases hydration and evens out skin tone.
  • Importantly, use your mask time to relax, read or reflect…you are investing now for good skin later.

 

Thanks to photographer by Allef Vinicius.