This winter I’ve gotten really into masking. Like, really really. I did two wash-off masks and one sheet mask on Friday night. It’s been a nice way to fill dark evenings and cold weekend days.
I think of wash-off masks in three categories:
- clay/charcoal/drying masks. These were really the only type available when I was growing up, and still tend to be the most readily available. These tend to be popular among more oily skin types because of that drying effect, but can have a satisfying but problematic tightening effect if left on too long
- exfoliating masks. Not scrubs (though some, like the one from Biossance, may have a scrubby effect), these have some combination of AHA, BHA, PHA, LHA or fruit enzymes for chemical exfoliation. Many are labelled or referred to as peels.
- hydrating/soothing masks. I’m guilty of leaving these on for a long as an hour, but have never had ill effects.
While for my skin type (dry) I should arguably be avoiding clay masks, I’ve found that if I immediately do another hydrating mask after, all is well and my pores still look smaller. I’m currently using the one from Sephora, but also have the one from Peter Thomas Roth and Isntree.
Alternately, if you’re maybe experimenting with a stronger or new exfoliating mask, following it up with a soothing mask immediately after really helps. In previous empties reviews I’ve talked about my love for the exfoliating mask from Peach & Lily, and my “meh” for the mask from Biossance. I’m now (spoiler alert) using the one from Versed, and so far so good!
Truly, the fact that there are now hydrating/soothing wash-off masks on the market has been a game changer for me. A year ago, when folks would ask for hydrating mask recommendations, I never really knew what to recommend — Peter Thomas Roth seemed like the only brand with any options, with one random mask from First Aid Beauty ass well. But now I love to recommend the I’m From Honey and Peach Slices Snail Rescue masks to basically everyone who asks — I truly think that they’re great for all skin types, as long as you’re not going for vegan skincare.
Lisa Loves Skincare 