8 answers to popular questions about face masks: how to apply correctly, how to choose

Home » Skin care » How to apply a mask to your face correctly?

Any representative of the fair sex tries to take care of herself by doing various cosmetic procedures (facial cleansing, peeling, massage, applying creams and masks, etc.). In this article, let's look at the basic care methods: for example, how to properly apply a mask to your face. At first glance, this process seems simple and straightforward, but if some recommendations are not followed, the final effect may be disappointing.

Apply the mask only to thoroughly cleansed skin

It is important to properly prepare your face for the procedure. If you apply a mask to skin whose top layer consists exclusively of dead cells, you are unlikely to notice any effect - the product will not be able to penetrate through clogged pores - it will remain on the surface. For the mask to really work, after removing makeup, use a scrub or peeling - an exfoliating agent will cleanse the skin, the active components of the mask will enter the skin cells and begin to work. You can also open the pores by steaming the skin or using a warm compress.

How to prepare and cleanse your skin before applying a mask

An invariable condition for the effectiveness of cosmetic masks is good preparation of the surface of the face. Regardless of whether such a session is carried out in a beauty salon or at home, you should definitely pay attention to cleaning before applying such compositions.

How to prepare the dermis:

1. All decorative cosmetics are removed.
2. The surface is cleaned with milk or tonic.
3. You can use a mild detergent.
4. Before applying some types of mixtures, it is advisable to use a steam bath.

If you ignore preparation for applying the composition, the deeply penetrating components of the mask can deliver all the impurities and bacteria on the surface into the dermis. This will cause a negative reaction, leading to the spread of inflammation and rashes. To prevent this from happening, the face, hands, as well as all objects in contact with cosmetics must be disinfected.

Choose a mask according to your skin type

You should always choose a mask based on the needs of your skin. For example, a nourishing mask will work wonders on dry skin, but will cause clogged pores and inflammation on oily skin. When choosing a mask, always pay attention to the main components in its composition. Masks based on clay and charcoal are suitable for cleansing and caring for oily skin, products with oatmeal and honey will nourish dry skin, and components such as aloe and hyaluronic acid indicate that the product is suitable even for caring for sensitive skin. skin (we asked 30 questions to a dermatologist about face masks in this material).

The Best Korean Sheet Face Masks

Korean cosmetics are considered one of the best in the world; their quality level is almost no different from what is required for pharmaceuticals. The peculiarity of masks from Korea is their narrow focus, that is, the solution to a specific dermatological problem. The principle of cumulative effectiveness is also characteristic: the more applications, the better the condition of the face.

Korean masks cost from 50 to 300 rubles per package. Rating of the best brands:

1. Shari Black Tea.
2. Esfolio with lavender extract.
3. Food A Holic with pomegranate juice.
4. Secret Key with honey extract.
5. Sally's Box Loverecipe with Lemon Juice.
6. Holika-Holika Juicy Mask Sheet Tomato.

Apply the mask only with a clean brush

It is convenient to apply cream and gel masks with a special brush or spatula. A flat foundation brush will also work for this purpose. The main rule is that it should always be dry and clean, otherwise the brush can cause the development of bacteria in the product. And this will lead to the mask quickly deteriorating or not working as effectively. If you don't have a special brush and prefer to apply the mask with your fingers, always wash your hands thoroughly before applying.

Homemade film mask recipes

The film mask releases accumulated dust and accumulated sebum (sebum) from the pores. At the beginning, when you apply the film mask, it has a liquid or gel consistency. After 20-30 minutes it hardens, creating a thick film on the skin. At this time, the mask fits tightly to the face, clinging to the blackheads. By removing the film, dead cells are simultaneously removed and the contents of the pore are extracted. You can use a film mask no more than once every 7 days.

Remember that a film mask does not eliminate the cause of blackheads, but only removes existing ones. Therefore, in order to eliminate the problem forever, you need to eliminate the provoking factor.

The film mask has the following advantages:

• Deeply cleanses pores.
• Makes the skin smooth and velvety as the dead skin layer is removed.
• Normalizes sebum production and removes oily shine.
• The pores become narrower.
• Removes swelling.
• Does not require the use of a scrub first.
• When used correctly, it does not damage the skin.
• Removes toxins and waste from cells.
• Fills the skin with beneficial vitamins and minerals.
• Easy to apply and easy to use.

Disadvantages of a film mask:

• Not recommended for dry, sensitive, thin skin. May cause redness, tingling, and a strong feeling of tightness.
• May cause an allergic reaction. Therefore, you need to test the mask before use.
• Cannot be used for acne as it may worsen the situation.

Recommendations for using a film mask:

• You start by degreasing the skin, wash with water or wipe with tonic;
• to enhance the effect, take a steam bath or apply a warm compress;
• apply the mask to dry skin;
• applying with a brush is more convenient and distributes more evenly;
• spread over the entire face or only on problem areas;
• remove the film when it is completely dry;
• After removing, wash with warm water, dry and apply cream.

Recipes:

Gelatinous:

• 6 grams of powdered gelatin;
• mix with 40 ml of warm milk;
• mix and leave to swell for 10-15 minutes for powder, 60 minutes for regular;
• then melt in a water bath and stir;
• Apply layer by layer to face. Rub in the first layer, apply the rest evenly for volume;
• leave until completely dry;
• after 20 minutes, pick up the bottom edge and carefully remove;
• apply 1-2 times every 7 days.

Result:

pores are cleaned and narrowed. The skin is smooth and velvety.

Black mask made of gelatin and activated carbon:

• Powdered gelatin 10 grams;
• mix with 6 tab. activated carbon, grind the carbon;
• add 20 ml warm water;
• mix and leave to swell for 10-15 minutes for powder, 60 minutes for regular;
• then melt in a water bath and stir;
• Apply layer by layer to face. Rub in the first layer, apply the rest evenly for volume;
• leave until completely dry;
• after 20-30 minutes, pick up the bottom edge and carefully remove;
• apply once every 7 days.

Result:

pores are cleaned and narrowed. The skin is smooth and velvety.

Cleopatra mask

You can prolong your youth using the recipes of the Egyptian queen, which include the most common ingredients found in your home. Cleopatra's mask is easy to use and easily available at home.

Benefits of the Cleopatra mask:

• Consists exclusively of natural ingredients.
• Well moisturizes and removes inflammation of the facial skin.
• Relieves swelling.
• Tightens, improves turgor (elasticity) and tones the facial skin.
• Brightens and evens out tone.
• Eliminates flaking.

Disadvantages of the Cleopatra mask:

May cause an allergic reaction. Therefore, you need to test the mask before use.

Recipes:

Classic Cleopatra mask:

• 2-3 tablespoons of flower honey;
• mix with 2-3 tablespoons of warm milk;
• add 2-3 tablespoons of oatmeal;
• you can add lemon juice;
• keep the mask on your face for 20-30 minutes;
• apply 1-2 times every 7 days.

Result:

the skin is moisturized, glows, the relief and tone of the face are evened out.

Cleopatra mask with clay:

• 3 tablespoons of dry clay;
• mix with 2 tablespoons of warm honey;
• add 3 tablespoons oatmeal;
• you can add 1 tablespoon of sour cream;
• mix and apply to face;
• keep on your face for 20-30 minutes;
• apply 1-2 times every 7 days.

Result:

prevents the appearance of wrinkles, tones and moisturizes, tightens the oval of the face.

A homemade mask is an affordable way to maintain youth and eliminate blemishes in your skin. But you should take into account the characteristics of your skin. Consult your cosmetologist and find out if this or that recipe is suitable for you.

Relax

Applying a mask is a pleasant beauty procedure during which you need to rest and relax. If you start to fuss and try to do household chores at the same time as leaving, the mask will slide off your face, stretching the skin - the effect after the procedure will clearly not be what you expect (an expert explains here how to keep your face oval in good shape).

Cleaning phase

The next step to prepare your face for the mask is cleansing with scrubbing cosmetics. Each skin type has its own facial exfoliator. The main thing is to choose it correctly so that there is no irritation and all kinds of allergic reactions.

Gommage

Suitable for all skin types. It contains solid particles that help cleanse the fabric. Gommage exfoliates dead particles using fruit acids and small abrasive particles contained in it. In addition to the fact that gommage has not only a cleansing effect, its plus is that it is a kind of micromassage for the face. Apply gommage with massaging movements, avoiding the area around the eyes, and rinse with warm water.

Gommage cleanses pores, fights acne, smoothes wrinkles, lightens freckles, age spots, nourishes, moisturizes and improves blood flow. After this procedure, the skin becomes fresh, elastic and ready to receive cosmetics and care products.

Peeling

This is the same procedure for cleaning the skin of the face from dead tissue particles. Peels come in three varieties: chemical, cosmetic and mechanical. Consider all three types.

Chemical is the most powerful and effective peeling method. This procedure is carried out in professional salons. This peeling is used in cases where there are: comedones, traces of acne and blackheads, age-related skin changes in the form of wrinkles, skin laxity. The procedure can be done at home if you find special products containing at least some percentage of fruit acids.

Mechanical peeling is scrubbing the face with store-bought products or prepared at home using natural products: honey, ground coffee, salt, sugar. Mechanical peeling rejuvenates, refreshes and adds radiance. Also, do not overuse this procedure, as you can damage the protective layer of the skin. 1-2 treatments per week are recommended.

Cosmetic peeling is carried out in salons. Professional salons have all the necessary cosmetics for facial skin care. The salon peeling procedure includes: improvement, restoration and rejuvenation of the skin. Of course, in salons you can perform all types of peeling that give good results, but you need a specialist who knows his business; personnel without experience can cause harm to health in the form of scars on the face.

Scrub

This is a deep cleansing of facial skin cells from dirt, dust, cosmetic residues, and dead skin cells. It may contain various exfoliating particles: crushed seeds and nut shells, sea salt, small artificial balls. The scrub is applied with light massaging movements for 3-4 minutes and washed off with warm water. The procedure is best done before bedtime. The scrub has a rejuvenating effect, smoothes and refreshes the skin. Contraindications: damaged skin surface, burning sensation when applying the scrub, sunburn of the face. Suitable for all skin types, the main thing is to choose the scrub individually.

Keep the mask on for exactly as long as indicated in the instructions.

Longer doesn't mean better. You should not keep the mask on your face for more than the prescribed time. Sometimes it can even harm the skin. For example, long-term use of a cleansing mask can lead to disruption of the skin's natural lipid barrier - after the procedure, it will look dry and dull. And the active components of moisturizing and nourishing masks can cause irritation or even allergic reactions. You should also not allow clay masks to dry out on your face, otherwise they can severely dry out your skin.

How to apply correctly

Proper skin care includes following the basic principles of applying cosmetics.

Application technology

Regardless of the type of composition used, movements should occur in the main directions of skin stretching.

Massage line diagram

Directions of movement:

• from the temples to the middle of the forehead;
• from the neck to the earlobes;
• from the bridge of the nose to the temples;
• from the edge of the lips to the middle of the ear.

When applying, avoid the sensitive area around the eyes and lips. For these areas, there are special cosmetic mixtures that help nourish and moisturize the sensitive dermis.

The effectiveness of the selected composition also depends on proper use.

How to apply: fingers, spatula or brush

Application of the composition can be carried out using different methods. Manually is the easiest and most commonly used method. Do not use excessive force, press or knead your face. Since the mask is usually applied in a thick layer, you can use a cosmetic brush or spatula. To protect your curls and ease of use, it is advisable to wear a special hair net.

How long to keep

You can keep the composition on your face from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the ingredients included in the composition. Homemade masks are usually applied for about half an hour, but it is better to clarify this point in the manufacturer’s instructions.

How to remove

After the required period of exposure has ended, the mask is washed off with warm water without using detergents. The exception is special night formulations. They resemble a thick cream in consistency, are completely absorbed into the skin and do not require rinsing.

What to put on your face after the mask

A good completion of cosmetic procedures would be to moisturize your facial skin after the mask. For this, a gentle composition is used to help retain moisture and nutrients in the deep layers of the dermis.

Remove your mask correctly

After the required time has passed, remove the mask by rinsing your face with warm water - too hot water can cause dryness and flaking of the skin. You can use a special sponge, brush or soft towel to remove the mask - make sure that not a drop of product remains on your face (you can find the 5 best face brushes here). Residue from the mask can cause clogged pores, inflammation and irritation.

Removing cosmetics

Masks are washed off with warm or cold running water, without soap. Cleansing, anti-inflammatory, from clay - warm water. To enhance the effect, you can add a little vinegar or lemon juice to the water. Those with dry or normal skin can use a weak solution of tea or herbal infusion.

Moisturizing and oil masks are removed with a napkin or cotton pad. Gently and without pressing on the skin. Then the face is wiped with an infusion of herbs or a weak solution of tea and lubricated with a nourishing cream. Clay masks need to be removed in two stages - first, carefully remove the dried clay with a spatula, then wash your face. Lifting masks are usually removed as a whole sheet. If that doesn’t work, you can remove it piece by piece. The film mask is carefully removed from the bottom up, and the remnants are washed off with warm water.

Masks are an effective and affordable remedy that can improve the condition of the skin and complexion in a short time. The choice of this type of product is quite large, and it all depends on your preferences, skin type, age and, of course, financial capabilities.

Secure the result with a care product

After washing, wipe your face with a mild toner. Do not use products containing alcohol - they tighten the pores and the effect of the mask will quickly disappear. After toning, apply a creamy texture care product to the skin. Care must be distributed immediately, before the pores close - the cream seals the mask on the face, and the active components of the product remain working in the skin cells. As a result, it will look well-groomed and hydrated longer. If you used a cleansing mask, moisturize your skin with lotion or cream. And after applying a nourishing or moisturizing mask, you can take a light serum or emulsion.

How often can you use the mask?

One of the main advantages of such cosmetics is the quick effect. After the first application, the face becomes fresher and more well-groomed, so it is recommended to use this product regularly. This does not mean that the mixture must be applied at every opportunity, because this is fraught with additional problems.

Important points when using:

1. Compliance with skin type, age, following the manufacturer’s recommendations for application and frequency of use.
2. Use well combined with a relaxing facial massage. Rest and complete relaxation are also welcome, so you should lie down comfortably, relax your facial muscles, and detach yourself from everyday worries and problems.
3. The mixture must be washed off with warm water. It is good to use decoctions of medicinal herbs or wipe your face with it after the procedure. This will help relieve swelling, remove circles under the eyes, and also helps to tone the dermis.

It is necessary to use such cosmetics in a course. Usually these are 5–10 procedures, after which it is advisable to take a break so that the effectiveness does not decrease. This occurs after the dermis is oversaturated with nutrients.

It is not difficult to avoid addiction; just change the product or not use the mixture for a month.

How many times a week can you do it and why should you not use it every day?

Typically, cosmetologists advise using such cosmetics no more than 1-2 times a week, so it is better to adhere to the rules indicated on the packaging of the purchased products.

Main risks with daily use:

1. The dermis is quickly saturated with all nutrients, after which the rate of their absorption deteriorates.
2. Excessive care can cause a backlash, lead to dermatitis or allergies, and deterioration of the dermis.
3. Reduced effectiveness of the cosmetic product.
4. Insufficient production of your own collagen and elastane in the future.

Such a statement does not mean that you should completely abandon the use of such means. Cosmetic masks are famous for their quick effect and are considered an excellent alternative to expensive professional procedures. The big advantage of such products is their ease of application and use.

When is it better to apply the mask: morning or evening

To ensure the desired result, it is worth studying the basic rules for using such cosmetics. It is advisable to apply the mask in the evening, but some mixtures have a more active effect in the first half of the day.

From what age can it be used?

“Acquaintance” with such cosmetics should begin no earlier than 20–25 years. Anti-aging formulations are used from the age of 25 or earlier when the first signs of skin aging appear.

What is an alginate mask, composition

Alginate face masks are a powder that must be diluted with a small amount of water to achieve a gel-like form . The basis of the drug is alginic acid, which is capable of retaining a large amount of water and thereby guaranteeing the implementation of normal conditions for the surface of the skin, improving nutrition and strengthening.

Moreover, like sour cream formulations, the preparations discussed in the article allow you to achieve the desired result in a short time. Most often, this acid is found in brown algae, which is why it is not surprising that these masks are mass-produced in Korea and other eastern countries, where the main ingredient grows in large quantities.

As for the standard composition of such cosmetic products, in addition to alginic acid, they include:

• Complex of vitamins.
• A large amount of proteins.
• Minerals.

The importance of proper skin preparation

Proper preparation will contribute to better skin perception of the beneficial substances of the mask.

Procedural step-by-step implementation will help achieve the following results:

1. Compresses/steam baths will warm the skin, soften it, and prepare it for stress-free cleansing.
2. Blood flow increases. Pores open and blood vessels dilate.
3. Compresses/steam baths are good for relaxing muscles.
4. Cleansing helps remove acne and blackheads, and is generally effective in caring for problem skin.
5. The skin is toned and is ready to absorb all the benefits contained in the mask.

Mistake 1: “The longer, the better.”

The instructions for using the mask say to keep it on for 15-20 minutes.

And we think - let me hold it for all 40 minutes! For super results! So that all, all, all the benefits are absorbed to a single drop. And this is a fatal mistake.

Why? It's simple! Once the mask dries, it no longer has any benefit for us! And sometimes it makes it even worse!

A dry mask begins to suck moisture from the skin. So, for example, for sensitive skin this can lead to allergic rashes and irritations. And the result is not benefit, but harm. This is why it is important to keep the mask wet at all times. This is the only way it works for the desired result. For example, clay masks should be irrigated with clean water or hydrosol to prevent them from drying out on the skin.

Remember

It’s not in vain that manufacturers indicate the time for keeping the mask on! Pay attention to this!

Skin preparation methods, tips

Experts in the field of cosmetology identify several methods for cleansing the skin before a mask.

Steam bath

One of the most effective methods of preparing the skin is the use of steam baths before the mask. It's easy to prepare. It is necessary to boil water and pour it into a deep bowl.

For these purposes, it is better not to choose metal utensils.

To keep the water from cooling longer, take a plastic basin. Now we bend over the vessel and cover ourselves with a bath towel. You can use a sheet or thick blanket. The water will gradually cool down, so keep the kettle next to you to add hot liquid.

Our task: make a steam bath lasting 10 - 15 minutes.

Of course, steam baths are good with plain water, but if you take the trouble to brew different herbs, the effect will be amazing. As a rule, linden, medicinal chamomile, and mint are brewed. Rosemary leaves (mallow, rose hips) and lavender work well. If it is possible to collect the material for the steam bath yourself, then make preparations for the winter period. Products for such procedures can be purchased at a green pharmacy.

Compresses

Another important procedure that will help prepare your face for applying a mask is a compress. It can be used on any skin type immediately before main cleansing. Compresses are divided into two main types: dry and wet.

Dry

This type of compress is a regular bandage. This can be a medical bandage folded in layers or a thin layer of cotton wool. A dry compress can be used after a steam bath to calm the skin. This is how we protect it from irritation and various external factors. Keep the dry compress for no more than five minutes.

Wet

A wet compress is used instead of a steam bath. It is also very effective.

Method of use:

1. Prepare flannelette, flannel or other thick fabric.
2. Fold it in half.
3. Soak in hot water. This means a temperature of 39 - 45 degrees.
4. We carry out a series of hot compresses for 16 minutes. The compress is applied to the face for 4 minutes.
5. If you feel that the fabric is cooling, wet the fabric again in hot water, then squeeze it lightly and cover your face again.
6. The fabric should be held on the face so that the nasolabial area is open. You can cut a hole in the fabric or use two cotton strips.
7. At the end of the session, gently blot your face with a towel. Let's start cleaning.
8. For wet compresses, herbal infusions are also used instead of water.

After this procedure, the facial muscles will relax and blood circulation will improve.

For aging pale skin, it is better to use a contrast compress. You need to alternate two fabrics: wet one in hot water and the other in cold water. Of course, water alone is not enough for dull skin. It is necessary to infuse chamomile, mint, linden blossom or birch leaves. We alternate the fabric at least 5 times.