- A Closer Look At Facial Masks
By: Gregg Hall
Facial masks are more than just
silly tricks that women try to get their “beauty rest.”
They are an important part of skin care. It is recommended that
you use a facial mask at least once a week. While it is not necessary
to go overboard and wear one every night, a weekly facial mask
session cannot only help your skin receive moisture, but it can
also ease skin disorders. Facial masks can be soothing or energizing,
and the actions and rituals often involved with applying a facial
mask can be an effective stress reliever.
A facial mask is generally defined
as a substance that is applied to the face, much like smearing
on cream. It is thick, and often resembles clay. Many masks make
use of clay or gel as a base, as these will stay in place when
applied, and they are generally harmless to most skin types (although
gel is used most for sensitive skin, as heavy clay irritate it).
Masks are meant to cover the entire face and then remain in place
for a few minutes before washing off. The materials in most masks
are safe to be washed down the sink.
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Most facial masks include both deep
cleaning and moisturizing agents in the mask. This allows the
pores in the face to be cleansed deeply, getting rid of oily
build up and trapped dirt. This can help reduce or even prevent
acne. Additionally, many masks help slough off dead skin. The
dead top skin is dull and lusterless. When it is gently removed,
the mask brings the top layer of dead skin cells off with it.
This leaves younger, healthier cells exposed as the face’s
surface. This means tighter skin and a more brilliant complexion.
It can also reduce the look of fine lines and small wrinkles
to carry out a regular facial mask. |
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Another reason that facial masks
are so popular involves the soothing and relaxing motions associated
with applying a facial mask. If you decide to have one applied
in for relaxation as well as the benefits it has for the skin
on the face, then you can have a very enjoyable experience. In
spas, these masks are applied with special techniques and often
include a massage. You can give your own face a gentle massage
just prior to applying the mask, and if you are systematic about
it, you can apply the mask in a way that is singularly soothing.
All masks should be applied to a freshly cleaned face, rinsed
with warm water. This opens the pores and allows the mask to
do its thing. Warm water is very calming and soothing, and many
people find this part of the application to be one of the more
enjoyable stages.
Apply the mask in a circular
motion until it covers the face. This is calming and stimulating
at the same time. Let the mask sit on your face for 15 to 20
minutes (although some are meant to be worn all night). Many
women like to lie down and relax. The effect can be enhanced
by the addition of candles or incense and some soothing music.
Finally, when it is time to rinse the mask, do so in cold water.
This will help close the pores, protecting them against dirt
and oil, and also energize your face.
Many people enjoy making their
own facial masks from common household products like bananas
(for wrinkles), avocados, and honey (antibacterial). Butter can
also be used as a remedy for dry skin. Other masks can be created
using different types of clays, and different essential oils
can be used for different skin types. Fruit purees also have
different effects and yogurt and milk can soften the skin. Oatmeal
is extremely soothing, and most sensitive skin types can use
masks of this sort. Adding rose petal powder can enhance your
fragrance without the need for perfume, while citrus fruit peel
powder acts as an astringent.
When you decide to make use of
facial masks, you are certain to feel the good effects of it
later down the road. And if you apply them once a week, you can
help keep your face healthy-looking and your complexion brilliant
with a healthy glow. |
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