Information on Face Masks

Information on Face Masks
Photo Credit beauty mask #22 image by Adam Borkowski from Fotolia.com

Facial masks have traditionally been available at upscale spas, where the treatments are frequently applied by licensed aestheticians or trained technicians. Professional-quality masks often contain special-purpose ingredients such as anti-aging or acne-banishing formulas. You can also purchase commercially prepared, mass-produced masks with similar ingredients. Finally, you can create your own facial masks that offer skin care benefits as well.

Masks for All Skin Types

Seven major types of facial masks are available to consumers. NaturalFoodsMerchandiser.com highlights dry skin masks with creamy textures that retain skin moisture. In contrast, oily skin masks are generally clay-based, and contain ingredients that expel impurities from the skin. Combination skin combines characteristics of dry and oily skin, and benefits from a mask that exfoliates the skin while maintaining its moisture balance.

Skin susceptible to acne can receive a clay and herbal astringent mask, or an herbal astringent mask with antibacterial properties. Sensitive skin basks in a chocolate mask that cleanses and provides nutrients and antioxidants. Finally, mature skin can benefit from a circulation-boosting mask or a rejuvenating mask.

Herbal Facial Masks

Herbal facial masks can be used to stimulate circulation, remove dead skin cells through exfoliation, or enrich your skin with creamy textures. These masks frequently contain organic essential oils or herbs, and are noteworthy because the masks don’t include additives and chemicals. Herbal masks should also be free of artificial colors and fragrances, other than scents from fruity ingredients, states HerbalFacialMask.com.

Masks From Your Kitchen

You can easily create and apply facial masks using food-based ingredients from your kitchen. In addition to masks dedicated to specific skin types, Fat Free Kitchen notes that you can whip up creations such as a banana mask to combat wrinkles. You can also apply a cucumber mask to achieve smoother skin, or a yogurt-oatmeal mask to soothe chapped or sunburned skin.

Facial Mask Application

You'll apply most facial masks with a similar technique. Pull your hair away from your face, neck and shoulders. Gently brush the mask onto your skin, avoiding your mouth and eye areas. Leave the mask on for the recommended time period, which varies for different skin types and masks. Remove the mask by gently washing with warm water. Apply the mask once a week for a regular skin rejuvenation session.

Skin Benefits

Most facial masks provide three benefits for your skin. A properly applied facial mask thoroughly cleans the impurities from your skin. This deep pore cleansing helps to remove your skin’s dead top layer and exposes fresher skin underneath. In addition, facial masks provide needed moisture for your skin. Finally, because you’ll gently massage your face while applying the mask, you’ll likely experience relaxation benefits, notes Forever-Beauty-Tips.com.

References

Article reviewed by MER Last updated on: Jul 12, 2010

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