Facial masks can have some wonderfully potent effects. Ultimately, the effectiveness of a face mask depends on your complexion concerns, the product you choose, and the frequency with which you use it.
Facial masks can have some wonderfully potent effects. Ultimately, the effectiveness of a face mask depends on your complexion concerns, the product you choose, and the frequency with which you use it.
The three types of masks most likely to produce instant results are masks that are meant to do one of the following:
- Detoxify and decongest
- Resurface
- Hydrate
Detoxifying and Decongesting Masks
Detoxifying and decongesting masks are meant to pull blackheads and other gunk out of the pores. You should see a measurable result instantly with this type of mask. A fine product example is Dermalogica Charcoal Rescue Masque.
Charcoal is meant to attract and absorb impurities from the skin, so when the charcoal is removed, you should see right away that pores are decongested. This holds true for all masks that are meant to remove impurities from the skin.
Resurfacing Masks
Masks meant to resurface the skin are often packed with active ingredients, particularly enzymes and acids. Enzymes and acids are both chemical exfoliants, meaning they loosen and dissolve dead skin cells on the surface of the skin. Resurfacing masks are gentler than physical exfoliants, such as grainy scrubs.
You can expect to see noticeable results after one use of a resurfacing mask. This is because your skin will appear brighter and fresher after exfoliation.
If you want to see a significant change in texture, scarring, or dark spots, however, you need to use a mask like this on a much more frequent basis. You'll also need to address those concerns with daily skincare treatments.
Using a mask such as Alpha-H Liquid Gold Smoothing + Perfecting Mask a few times a week will help you get serious results. If you want to keep skin safe during frequent use of this kind of a mask, however, you need to wear SPF daily. Resurfacing acids and enzymes increase the likelihood of sun sensitivity.
Hydrating Masks
A hydrating mask will have an immediate effect but not a long-lasting effect—unless it's used frequently. Many hydrating masks contain ingredients similar to those found in classic moisturisers and hydrating serums:
- Hyaluronic acid
- Shea butter
- Avocado butter
These ingredients help temporarily but require frequent usage to keep the skin optimally balanced and hydrated. The intense but short-term effect is convenient for delivering fast moisture on airplanes, in intense temperatures, or while spending time in an arid climate.
Regular use of a hydrating mask will boost hydration, but hydration is a more of a daily maintenance issue than something you should turn to a mask for. Antipodes Aura Manuka Honey Mask is a perfect choice for this type of mask. Honey hydrates deeply, and this mask can be left on during long-haul flights.
The long and short of it is that yes, most masks are beneficial. Generally, however, unless the mask is used frequently and over a long period, just like any other product, you won’t see amazing one-off results. Check out all of our masks for more options.
