Face masks: choosing the best option for your skin type
To relax at the end of a busy day, to prep skin for make-up application, or to simply enjoy a pampering session worthy of any beauty salon: it’s always the right time for a face mask!
But how do I choose the right mask for my skin? It’s super easy - just follow the various recommendations in our mini guide to learn how to navigate the magical world of skincare treatments.
Face masks: there’s one for every skin type
Masks are a little like us - they're all different! With this in mind, the first thing that we need to do in order to choose the right mask is identify our skin type and its subsequent needs. Let’s call this the ‘benefit principle’: you tell us what your skin is like (and what it needs) and we’ll direct you towards the perfect mask.
1 If you have dry skin, you're going to need a hydrating mask and/or a nourishing option.
You should see easily achievable results from the very first application - your skin will appear softer and more hydrated.
2 If you have oily/greasy skin, a mattifying mask is your new BFF.
Thanks to the specific sebum-absorbing action of this genre of masks, your skin will instantly appear less shiny and more matte-looking.
3 If your skin is suffering from imperfections, try a purifying mask.
Your skin - as if by magic - will appear purged of impurities and make-up residues, resulting in renewed radiance.
4 If your skin is sensitive, opt for a soothing mask.
It will provide your skin with immediate relief, freshness and an irresistible sensation of comfort.
5 If your skin is normal, give it a boost of perpetual energy.
Thanks to the specific actives - such as coffee and tea extracts - contained in energizing face masks or anti-fatigue formulas, your skin will be ready to brave all and any challenge that comes its way.
TIP:
Have combination skin? Do different areas of your face have different needs? The solution comes in the shape of multi-masking, i.e. combining various types of mask simultaneously on specific areas of the face according to your skin’s needs.
The various face mask formats
This is where things get fun: there are so many types of face mask and just as many different formats, all just waiting to be experimented with (and obviously immortalized in a fab selfie, following the example of online influencers).
Hydrogel masks
- They have a special structure, which means that they adhere perfectly to the face and slide satisfyingly onto the skin for a feeling of instant wellbeing.
- Their lightweight, cooling gel texture does not run and is easy to apply owing to their special shape, which adapts to our facial contours.
TIP:
Keep them in the fridge for an even more refreshing feel and your skin will thank you for it!
Cream masks
- Super simple to apply and wear, cream masks won't slip off the face or weigh down the skin - you’ll be able to carry on with your daily activities while they work their magic!
- They can be used alone or alternated with other cream masks to concurrently achieve different effects on different areas of the face.
Sheet masks
Much like hydrogel masks, sheet masks also adhere seamlessly to the face like a second skin and have a soft, ultra-comfortable texture. Their weave has been specially designed to retain and then gradually release the active ingredients into the skin.
Patch masks
In either hydrogel or sheet formats, patch masks have been designed to be applied to specific areas of the face and are great for travelling.
Skincare treatments and face masks: what’s the difference?
The face masks and skincare treatments that you usually use are to be considered complementary rather than different. To achieve flawless skin - which is the necessary base for immaculate make-up - we ideally recommend always combining a cream or specific serum with a face mask, so as to supercharge the results.
TIP:
Masks should be applied to cleansed skin, so be sure to wash your face at the start and end of each day with products that have been specifically formulated for this purpose, such as KIKO’s cleansing milk, toners and micellar water.
How often should I mask?
As each mask has its own special properties, we generally recommend masking once or twice a week, perhaps alternating the type of treatment used. The recommended length of time that you should leave the mask on is always indicated on the packaging or leaflet that comes with the product (exceeding this won’t increase the mask’s efficacy :D).
TIP:
Want a neat trick for those who are in a rush but don’t want to forego their skincare? Apply the mask while you're waiting on your conditioner or another hair treatment: under the shower, your pores will naturally be more dilated, the skin will be more receptive, and you’ll be on time for all the day’s commitments!
Masks on and smartphones fully charged: take a photo of your beauty moment and share it using hashtag #kikotrendsetters: bag yourself a starring role in the KIKO MILANO world.