What Do Face Masks Actually Do?

Facial masks work deep in the skin to clean, firm and tighten the pores and exfoliate dead cells.

They generally contain minerals, fruits, vitamins and other plant extracts. Facial masks consist of two types; creamy lotion which is applied and then rinsed off with tepid water, or peel-off masks.

Always clean the face before applying a mask. Ideally the skin should be warm. If your skin is oily, or oily and dry, the best choice is a mask that is clay or mud-based.

Clay absorbs excess oils and clears and prevents blackheads. Clay also deep cleans the pores, and detoxifies the skin without drying. If you have sensitive skin, most clay or mud masks are suitable.

Oily skin also does well with facial masks based on lemon, tomato, potato and witch hazel. Oatmeal is also an ideal ingredient for oily skin; the oatmeal will provide an exfoliant as well as smoothing and soothing. Apples and honey-based masks are also ideal for oily skin.

For dry skin, the best choice is a moisturizing mask. These facial masks clean deep down, while adding moisture to the skin. Moisturizing masks are left on the face for 10 or 15 minutes, gently rubbed into the skin before removing. These masks plump and soften the skin, leaving a noticeable difference when used regularly.

Facial masks made with yogurt, avocado, olive oil or egg are also wonderful to moisturize dry skin. Masks made with fruits that contain a lot of water, such as berries, citrus, peaches and pears will also moisturize dry skin.