What To Look For
When narrowing your search for your perfect match in a face mask, consider the problem you want to address. There are masks for softening and plumping dry skin, smoothing wrinkles, treating acne and closing pores. There are masks that look like mud and masks that smell good enough to eat. Some masks work in three minutes, while others work in 30 minutes. Look for masks listing natural ingredients rather than a string of chemicals. Avoid those with fragrance added if you have sensitive skin.
Common Pitfalls
Women looking for a good face mask tend to either opt for the cheapest one they see or the most expensive. The truth is that the top-rated masks fall in the middle price range. Just because something is $98 an ounce does not mean the ingredients are worth the price. Often, the price is inflated for the brand and packaging. And reaching for the $3 mask may be a mistake, as well. These are typically loaded up with dyes and perfumes while containing little in the way of beneficial ingredients.
Where To Buy
The best place to find a good selection of mid-range face masks is your local drugstore or an online site like drugstore.com. For higher-end masks, check department stores or their online websites or beauty sites such as sephora.
Cost
Mid-range masks are typically your best bet; expect to pay anywhere from $15 to $50. According to Real Simple, the Erno Laszlo Sea Mud Exfoliating Mask is an excellent choice for sensitive oily skin at $45. The mask performed well, was found not be sticky or drippy and revealed new skin. Lancome's Hydra-Intense Masque for $28 is a good choice for dry skin. Dull skin benefits from the $30 Lierac Soin Eclat Express Moisturizing Mask. Red and irritated skin is calmed by the use of tamanu oil in Aveda's Outer Peace Cooling Masque for $37.
Insider Tips
Masks contain a wide array of ingredients. There's always the chance you may be sensitive to certain ones, so for your first use, leave it on for the shortest length of time recommended on the label. Wait 24 to 48 hours before using it again to be sure there is no resulting irritation. If you suffer from a skin disorder such as rosacea, choose a hydrating mask made without alcohol. For deep hydration, try placing a hot towel over the mask for the length of time it is on your skin.
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