Most of us may periodically apply a pack or mask on occasion when we have a spare few moments, on a girly night in or when a skin flare-up occurs.
However, did you know that the best way to reap the rewards of such treatments is to really pick the correct product for your skin type, use them correctly and regularly and implement them are a core part of your health routine.
The difference between face packs and face masks
Whilst the phrasing can be interchangeable, there are actually a number of key differences between a face pack and a face mask.
- Face packs are setting masks – Whereas face masks are non-setting.
- Face packs generally provide a more instantaneous result whereas a face mask is better for when you have more time.
- Face packs are better for removing deep down impurities, unlike face masks which remove layers of dead skin cells.
Whether you feel you would benefit more from a face pack or face mask, there are some similarities that both can provide:
- Quick and potent results.
- Well-chosen products can target all skin ailments.
- The deep cleansing action of the mask or pack will reach further into the skin that general cleansing alone.
- It is a great way to give yourself time to relax and be pampered.
So, here is a run-down of the different types of home based facial treatments you can try and their intended benefits.
Peel off face masks
Best for: Dry Skin
Peel off face masks work by removing the upper layer of the skin – and whilst this sounds unpleasant it is actually a great way to uncover the healthy, glowing and new skin that is hidden beneath any dull and dead cells.
Other benefits can include:
- The balancing of pigmentation.
- The cleaning out of pores which can help combat acne.
- The regulation of sebum production.
- The detoxification and stimulation of the blood supply.
Tip: In particular look for masks that contain vitamins, plant or fruit extracts, as well as charcoal, antioxidant and botanicals.
Gel face masks
Best for: Dry and sensitive skin
Gel face masks are an underused miracle when it comes to skincare. The magical cooling effect created by the product is perfect for dry and sensitive skin, as well as providing a sense of soothing.
Other benefits can include:
- The construct of the gel allows for easy absorption and is therefore great for rehydrating parched skin.
- The cooling effect tightens pores as well as firming and softening lines.
- Ideal for using on red, itchy or painful skin, especially as a treatment following sunburn.
Tip: In particular look for gel masks that are infused with collagen and antioxidants as these will help your skin convalesce quicker.
Exfoliating face masks
Best for: All skin types, although be careful with very sensitive or damaged skin.
Much like the peel off style of mask, the exfoliating properties of this type of mask can help uncover new and fresh skin.
Other benefits include:
- A more instantaneous result as the mask will remove dead cells and dull skin.
- The deep removal of ingrained dirt and bacteria which not only will brighten the skin but help combat acne.
- You will not need to, nor should you, use an exfoliator more than once a week. Using too frequently can result in drying out the skin. But this also means any product you invest in, will last you a lot longer!
Tip: Look for exfoliating masks that contain natural mineral properties such as volcanic rock and Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA’s). Masks featuring fruit enzymes such as papaya and pineapple are great for boosting the skin’s healthy glow.
Cream face masks
Best for: Normal or dry skin
Touted as being one of the most gentle types of mask, don’t be fooled into thinking that it is not as potent as other options. As you may imagine, a cream facemask is perfect for boosting hydration and also creating a more refreshing and cooling effect.
Other benefits include:
- The gentle style of mask is great for very sensitive skin.
- Great for removing dead cells and cleaning out pores.
- Tones and tightens as well as boosting the levels of hydration deep within the layers of skin.
- The overall outcome will be a smooth, refreshed and soft face.
Tip: Look for a cream mask that is rich in naturally occurring oils and moisturizers. Cream facemasks that contain hyaluronic acid and algae extracts also pack an extra punch.
Clay face masks
Best for: Normal and oily skin types
Arguably one of the best methods for removing deep down dirt and clogged bacteria, clay face masks are a great way to use what Mother Nature has given us!
Other benefits include:
- Clay withdraws impurities and cleans deep down.
- Absorbs excess oil and sebum which can lead to acne.
- Clay masks are mattifying and pore tightening so great for those with shiny patches.
Tip: Look for natural clay masks that are enhanced with kaolin and bentonite for an extra boost. Always wait for the clay mask to totally dry before removing for the best results.
Natural face masks
Best for: All skin types
If you really would rather steer clear of a proprietary mask, then get into the kitchen and make your own! It is far easier than it sounds and a lot more fun that heading to the pharmacy to stock up!
Other benefits include:
- You can tailor make your recipe to suit your own skin ailments.
- You will likely have the ingredients already in your kitchen, so it’ll be quicker and more economical than having to shop especially.
- It is great way to learn about what we are really putting into our bodies.
Tip: There are numerous recipes here on beauty help tips to quench your every desire to make your own homemade face pack. The most potent packs include certain key ingredients that you should look out for: oatmeal, coconut oil, lemon, honey and turmeric.
Sheet masks or Hydration face masks
Best for: Normal to dry skin
Sheet masks are currently the latest in facial trends and you will have likely seen countless pictures on social media of people indulging themselves.
Other benefits include:
- The material mask is easy to apply and remove and a lot less messy than a gel or cream.
- Intensely moisturizing and hydrating.
- The mask softens and smooths the skin as well as combating wrinkles and fine lines.
- Reduces puffiness and creates a dewy and youthful glow.
Tip: Look for products that include hyaluronic acid and caffeine as these really do infiltrate the layers of skin to deliver the perfect results.
Lip and Eye masks
So, you’ve found the perfect mask or pack to combat your dull or parched skin but don’t let the skin on and around your eyes and lips ruin all your hard work.
Lack of sleep, dehydration, smoking and genes can really all have a grave impact on your eyes and lips.
The benefits of eye masks include:
- Firming the skin around the eyes and reducing wrinkles.
- Combat puffy tired eyes as well as reducing dark circles.
- Hydrate and plump the area.
- The treatment can also provide a sensation of rest and rejuvenation.
Similarly, lip packs and masks are great for including in your beauty regime as they can provide much needed hydration that your daily balm will unlikely provide. Factors such as dehydration, air-conditioning or heating, the weather and genetics can all play havoc with your lips so make sure you keep them well cared for and kissable!
The benefits of lip masks include:
- Providing nourishment and healing on a deeper level than your usual balm.
- There are a variety of types so you can find a product to suit your own needs: there are gel lip masks, patches, creamy varieties to name a few.
Tips: When looking for an eye or lip mask, ensure you choose a product that includes collagen which plumps the skin and rejuvenates any existing damage and products that contain natural enzymes that remove dead cells.
