There are many types of facial masks. Whether your skin is dry, oily, acne prone, irritated or normal, there's one for you. And then there is the exfoliating type of mask, which can come in chemical, enzyme or scrub form. All three of the latter work by removing surface skin cells, which improves circulation, smooths and firms skin. They are cleansing and rejuvenating--and not just for your appearance, but your health as well. While your skin casts off dead cells and regenerates naturally, a little bit of help does no harm. In fact, it moves that process along a little more quickly to make your skin look and feel better.
What to Look for
Start in your own kitchen for the ingredients to make a great mask. The price is right and you'll be using fresh, mostly preservative-free ingredients. If your pantry and fridge aren't very well stocked, you can go shopping at your local grocery store. And, if you have sensitive skin, you may feel more confident about using natural ingredients. Buy some good-quality honey, pour it into the top of a double boiler and heat until warm. Test the temperature first on your hand, then smooth a layer over your entire face. Wait 15 minutes and rinse clean.
But if you're like most people, you'll head for the cosmetics counter to find a mask that's right for you.
In chemical masks, the ingredients do the work. Ingredients that will cleanse, kill germs and provide some sloughing action--as well as treat acne, in many cases--include glycolic acid, salicylic acid and lactic acid. You may find salicylic acid listed as white willow or white willow bark on an ingredient label. Enzymes do their work by enabling chemical processes. What this means in a facial mask is that certain substances work to "digest" those cells that need to be removed. Papaya and pineapple both contain enzymes--in papaya, it's papain, and in pineapple, bromelain. Pumpkin also contains enzymes. Look for these ingredients in natural masks.
A scrub-type mask performs the way it sounds. It contains a rougher substance that removes impurities and dead cells. When using a scrub mask, remember what the handyman knows: Let the tools do the work. In other words, apply this type of exfoliant gently and without pulling your skin. Some natural soaps have a built-in exfoliant also and it can be something as simple as sand.
Common Pitfalls
Unless your skin is very oily, avoid masks that contain alcohol. It may give you a tingly feeling that you associate with cleanliness, but what it's really doing is drying your skin.
After using any mask, remember to rinse your face well. You may be tempted to use hot water to wash, but don't. Use cool water to ensure that your pores are closed and therefore less likely to become clogged.
After using a face mask and rinsing, don't forget to apply a thin layer of moisturizer to protect the newly smooth, firm and healthy skin.
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