Best Face Mask For Your Skin Situation

Have you ever wondered what the best face mask for your skin is? Of course, a face mask is our first go-to whenever we take the time for DIY pampering. But how do we know that our mask is effective – or even beneficial – for our particular skin type? We spoke to Dr Fazeela Abbasi for some expert advice.  

“When trying to determine which face mask is best for your skin type, just be guided by your skin,” she says. “Don’t let the beautiful packaging or brand name distract you from checking the back for the ingredients. For example, as appealing as a sheet mask may look, if you have oily skin, it’s better to go for a clay mask that will absorb excess oil, but if you have dehydrated skin, a sheet mask containing the right ingredients is perfect,” she continues.  

Dr Abbasi also recommends looking out for different face mask ingredients when choosing one. “If you have dehydrated skin, reach for a mask that contains hyaluronic acid, glycerin, lecithin or propylene glycol, which are all ingredients that draw moisture into the outer layer of the skin. For dull skin, however, opt for masks with brightening agents such as vitamin C, azelaic acid and kojic acid.”  

If you have the kind of skin that freaks out and is super sensitive, then Dr Abbasi says, “You should lean towards masks with herbal ingredients such as aloe vera or green tea.”  

Best Face Mask for Glowing Skin 

My Clarins RE-BOOST Instant Reviving Mask, £24 

It is an instant pick-me-up that consists of 88% natural ingredients. Slather the cream-gel formula on, leave for 10 minutes, and watch the magic happen! 

TULA Resurfacing & Brightening Fruit Enzyme Mask, £31

 

This is packed with AHA, BHA and PHA exfoliants and is a quick and easy way to exfoliate dull skin away to reveal a brighter, more glowing complexion. 

OLEHENRIKSON Cold Plunge Pore Mask, £33 

With AHA, BHA and cooling clay ingredients, this mask makes for the perfect way to get your skin soft and glowing in one hit.

Best Face Mask for Dry Skin  

Clarins SOS Hydra Refreshing Hydration Mask, £31.50 

For parched skin that needs a serious hit of hydration, look no further than this creamy formula that leaves skin feeling smooth, soft and refreshed. 

StriVectin Cloudberry Moisture Plumping Cream Mask, £47 

Fuelled by prickly pear and cloudberry extracts and hyaluronic acid, this formula is intensely-moisturising and perfect for anyone who needs to give their skin a quick turnaround. 

SENSAI Comforting Barrier Mask, £139 

Is skin feeling dry, rough and red? This mask delivers maximum benefits when it’s slathered onto the skin and left overnight. 

Best Face Mask for Oily Skin  

Clarins SOS Pure Rebalancing Clay Mask, £31.50

A clay-based wonder that instantly mattifies oily skin, absorbs impurities, and tightens pores. 

Soho Skin Detox Mask, £60 

When your skin is feeling extra congested, try this salicylic acid-packed mask that cleans skin up and gently removes damaged skin cells. 

Nóttnuit ASH Purifying Face Mask, £58 

Clogged pores? Dull complexion? This volcanic ash-powered formula breaks down grease and grime to balance the skin and tighten pores. 

Sheet masks  

Of course, not all are made equally or eco-friendly when it comes to sheet masks. For those trying to avoid single-use, a more sustainable option might be a reusable silicone mask. Then, apply your favourite active serum or mask underneath and let the two work their magic.  

Editor’s choice:  

I apply a thick layer of the Clarins SOS Comfort Face Mask, £31.50, and place the Wrap Mask, £6, over the top to intensify the effects of the ultra-nourishing cream. This dynamic duo leaves my skin soft, hydrated and bouncier looking.  – Sarah Joan Ross, Beauty Daily Editor   

FAQ  

Do Face Masks Work for Skin?  

“Masks give us a perfect pampering luxurious feeling. But whether they work depends on the ingredients in the mask,” says Dr Fazeela. “While it may promise to infuse your skin with loads of mulberry or kiwi, it depends on the particle size of the ingredient whether it can be absorbed in the skin,” she continues. “A wide variety of sheet masks work well for the skin when actives are in the right concentration and the correct particle size for the ingredient used.” 

The common ingredients used in masks, in particular, vary from aloe vera and vitamin C to snail extract, pearl, seaweed and more. There are also bubbling masks made of charcoal, detoxifying ingredients, and sparkling water. Sheet masks can be great for our skin if used regularly, as they provide the right balance of skincare and pampering. However, it is important to understand that masks alone cannot improve your skin. They provide softness and a dewy glow, but the effects are often only temporary. Dr Fazeela warns that your skincare is complete if your mask is combined with a proper regimen and treatments. 

What Are Hydrogel Face Masks? 

A hydrogel mask blends cosmetic serums with gelatin to create a ‘jelly’ texture. Most Hydrogel Masks come in two parts, top and bottom. The bottom part is sticky and will adhere to the skin seamlessly, and the top part can be a cotton or gel texture. They provide better moisture to the skin and stick to it without slipping about the face. These masks are often not dripping with beauty serums when you remove them from the bag, as they are infused with beauty ingredients instead of soaked in them, so even if it seems dry, it’s working. The benefits of these masks are the cooling, soothing, and refreshing feel they have on the skin, especially on a hot summer day or after a workout when you need cooling down (you can even keep these in the fridge for extra cooling). 

Next read: Dry Skin Cream That Dermatologists Recommend