How often should I use facial masks?

Facial masks are an excellent addition to your basic skin care regimen! Aside from the pleasure and relaxation that many women get from applying a cool mask on their face at the end of the day, these blanket your skin ti help active ingredients penetrate better.
There are many different kinds of masks, and their benefits range from hydrating, drawing out impurities, or tightening and toning the skin.
Clay masks
These facial masks often use kaolin clay, which can absorb oil, draw out dirt, and by cleansing out the pores make them less visible (LINK TO PORE ARTICLE). Many masks can contain ingredients like salicylic acid to help fight acne. They are particularly good for those with oily skin.
Sheet masks
Sheet masks or paper masks are soaked with skincare ingredients and are left on the skin. By forming a barrier, these masks trap the ingredients so they don’t evaporate, and your skin can “drink in” the particles. Many sheet masks provide anti-aging or whitening and brightening ingredients. When you are done with the mask, rub it on your neck and hands to make the most out of every drop.
Follow the product recommendations on how long to leave it on, as it depends on the ingredients. Some are designed to be left on overnight, while others have strong ingredients that may irritate the skin if it is not wiped off.
Powder masks
Some masks allow you to add water, yogurt, or other liquids to a mask so you can control the thickness. The powders often contain oats that can exfoliate or sulfur or clays that can pull out oils and deep cleanse pores. Once mixed, apply them as you would a clay mask.
Gel Masks
Gel masks usually come in tubs. You apply on your skin as you would a cream, and then leave on for the specified time. Usually, gel masks are meant for deep hydration or calming and cooling. They are particularly effective for those with dry skin, especially if they contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5.
Peel off Masks
These masks are usually a liquid that contains a plasticizing ingredient forms a thin film on the face when its dry. It is then peeled off, taking off dead skin cells and surface dirt. Many claim to remove blackheads and whiteheads, although you will not get 100% results. Read our article on blackheads and whiteheads to get a better picture on how to address this skin concern – LINK.
With the variety of facial masks, and the different benefits they offer, you have many options on how to incorporate them into your skincare regimen, or even how often. You can use hydrating or anti-aging masks daily, if you wish, or alternate them with a brightening mask or a deep-moisturizing gel mask. You can do a clay mask or peel off mask once a week as part of your exfoliating regimen. However, don’t overexfoliate (it can irritate the skin) and pay attention to your skin’s reaction. If it stings or feels hot and red, you may need a gentler mask or keep it on for less than the recommended time.