You apply a face mask with positivity and enthralment, knowing that you're about to transform your skin from dull to luminance. But, once you wash the residue off, you find yourself feeling unhappy and disappointed with the result. Sound familiar? Well, I too know this feeling all too well...Â
Using a face mask seems like an easy process that doesn't require too much thought - to an extent. We all know the steps to take: wash your face, exfoliate, apply the face mask, wait until it dries, then rinse. However, is it possible that the small steps we're overlooking are the reason for our face masks' ritual demise?Â
Here, we're going to talk about 5 small (yet major) facts that could be hindering the full potential of your face masks magic.
Not Taking Skin Prepping Seriously
As with nearly everything in life, preparation is key. Skip or rush this step and your results will be compromised. Applying a face mask without ensuring your skin is clean and your pores are open, is bound to end badly. So, to obtain the most effective results, it’s important to:
Exfoliate - Remove dead skin cells to allow optimal face mask absorption.Â
Cleanse – Remove dirt to help unclog pores.
Open Pores - For 5 minutes, use warm steam to open your pores; an essential prepping tip to allow your skin to truly benefit what's to come.
Leaving It on For Too Long
We are all guilty of applying a mask, but then feeling too lazy to take it off – I know I have! It may seem counter-intuitive, but the longer you leave it on, the more likely you are to irritate your skin. Pay attention to the package instructions and follow it vigilantly.Â
Careless Rinsing
Do you see how important it is to rinse clean clothes? The same concept applies to our faces, too.
A few splashes won't cut it - if you leave even the tiniest amount, it can seriously irritate your skin and clog your pores. The best way to rinse is as follows:
Ensure you are rinsing with lukewarm water.Â
If you're using a cloth, use a good quality Muslin Cloth (such as this one from The Body Shop) and make sure you are not scrubbing.
Use small, gentle circular motions.Â
Once the mask is removed, splash some cold water onto your face to help close your pores and lock in the benefits, and voila.
Using the Wrong Face Mask for Your Skin Type
Knowing your skin is important when it comes to acing your skincare routine; it will save you from the stress of breakouts and irritation. Below are a few examples of the type of face masks that are compatible with each skin type:
Oily Skin
For oily and/or combination skin, mud or clay masks are a hit. They are extremely efficient in drawing out excess oil and impurities. If your skin is sensitive, leave it on for no longer than 15 minutes otherwise you risk drying out your skin too much.
Normal Skin
Normal skin is balanced with no visible signs of dryness or excel oil. All masks are suitable for normal skin, particularly cream masks.
Dry / Sensitive Skin
The most efficient mask for dry and sensitive skin is either an ultra-hydrating cream mask or a sheet mask.
You Apply with Dirty Hands
Applying a face mask with clean hands is vital; doing so will ensure you are not transferring bacteria from your hands onto your face. The most hygienic and efficient way to apply, without worrying about the cleanliness of your hands per say, is by using a good quality brush. Click here for my all-time favourite brush, it’s durable, applies well and is synthetic which means it is 100% cruelty-free… And as seen in your weekly newsletter, I got you a discount for it – obviously.