A face mask is an excellent way to level-up your skincare routine. They can address specific skin concerns like dry skin, hyperpigmentation and aging, and can even revitalize dull looking skin for a nice, healthy glow.
But which mask is the right mask for your skin? How often should you use it? And when in your skincare routine should you apply the mask?
We’ve got your answers and some pro tips from our highly experienced esthetician!
The five different types of face masks
The different options in face masks might make your head spin, but here’s an easy guide to follow:
Clay masks
Clay masks are best to treat skin conditions like acne. They can also be used as a spot treatment and tend to have absorbent and exfoliating astringent properties.
Try: Eminence Organics Acne Advanced Clarifying Masque
Cream masks
Cream masks help to maintain a plump and youthful-looking complexion, so they are best used on dry, dehydrated or aging skin. Cream masks are great for adding moisture and nutrients back into the skin and can even be used as an overnight treatment.
Try: Eminence Organics Coconut Cream Masque
Exfoliating masks
The best way to remove dead skin cells and enhance the skin’s natural turnover process is with an exfoliating mask. They typically come in one of two types – a chemical peel or fine ground particles (physical). You’ll find exfoliating masks suitable for most skin types, but those that get irritated skin easily may wish to skip this mask type.
Try: Eminence Organics Radish Seed Refining Peel
Gel masks
Gel masks are best for oily to normal skin types. They have a lightweight texture with the consistency of jelly. Gel masks can minimize oil and tighten the appearance of pores.
Try: Eminence Organics Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Masque
Warming masks
Warming masks contain spices that make the skin tingle and feel warm. They can help invigorate the complexion and increase blood flow to the face. Just like exfoliating masks, those with sensitive skin may find the warming sensations uncomfortable.
Try: Eminence Organics Eight Greens Phyto Masque – Hot
How to incorporate a mask into your skincare routine
After cleansing, toning and applying a facial essence is when you should apply a mask. These initial skincare routine steps clear impurities and excess oil and provide a base layer of hydration to prep your skin to absorb all of the beneficial ingredients in your face mask.
Face mask frequency
You can apply face masks one to two times a week, or more often if you need. Many Eminence Organics face masks, like cream and gel masks, can even be applied daily. It’s important to pay attention to how your skin feels and reacts to the face masks. If you start seeing raw skin or experiencing sensitivity or irritation, you may wish to decrease how often you use that particular mask, or change to a gentler mask formula.
Pro masking tips from Patrica Asmar
Patricia Asmar, owner and founder of The Facial Room and internationally trained esthetician, has a few expert tips for making the most out of your Eminence Organics mask.
Tip 1: Double masking
Two masks can be better than one! You can double mask by mixing two masks together, by applying one mask right after another, or by applying one mask on top of the other in layers. It's a technique that can double up on the skin benefits and save you time. A win-win!
Layering masks
Try: Eminence Organics Pumpkin Latte Hydration Masque + Eminence Organics Lime Stimulating Masque.
Pumpkin Latte Hydration Masque contains high quantities of Vitamin E and Omega 9 nutrients to fight the appearance of aging and environmental stress on the skin. Lime Stimulating Masque revives the skin, so you may experience a mild glow.
To apply this dynamic duo, it's as easy as layering one mask on top of the other before washing off. Starting with the Pumpkin Latte Hydration Masque, apply a small amount to your entire face followed by the Lime Stimulating Masque directly on top. After waiting 5–10 minutes for the masks to dry, scrub them off in a circular motion with a face cloth wet with lukewarm water and then rinse the remaining formula off.
Applying one mask after the other
Try: Eminence Organics Eight Greens Phyto Masque - Hot followed by Eminence Organics Clear Skin Probiotic Masque
This potent mask combo is perfect to treat hormonal acne while minimizing the signs of aging. Paprika + phytoestrogen + cooling cucumber + probiotic-rich yogurt = firm, clear glowing skin!
To try this out yourself, first apply the Eight Greens Phyto Masque – Hot. Let the mask do its thing for 15 minutes, then rinse and apply the Clear Skin Probiotic Masque to cool down. Let sit for 10-15 minutes and rinse thoroughly.
Mixing two masks together
Try: Mixing Eminence Organics Bamboo Age Corrective Masque + Eminence Organics Strawberry Rhubarb Masque
For this mask combo, mix together a bit of the Bamboo Masque with a bit of the Strawberry Rhubarb Masque – a little of each will go along way! Then apply to your face and let sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing. This delightful combination will help your skin appear lifted, firm and bright.
Tip 2: Use a cream mask as an overnight treatment
Even if a face mask isn’t specifically called a “night mask,” it can still be used as an overnight treatment. Choose a cream-based face mask as they tend to absorb better into the skin overnight.
After cleansing, apply your toner, essence and serum. Then top with a thin layer of your chosen mask. You may wish to add a towel on top of your pillow to protect your pillowcase.
In the morning, simply follow your regular skincare routine.
Try: Eminence Organics Strawberry Rhubarb Masque
This mask works hard while you rest as hyaluronic acid deeply hydrates and plumps the look of skin. Antioxidant-rich strawberries hold astringent properties which help remove impurities and shrink the appearance of pores.
Happy Masking!
