Use a Mask Twice a Week

Ever cracked a smile and cracked your mask? It happens. Check out these great tips for a flawless finish.

Why? It makes your skin look healthier-looking and prepares it for the next ingredients to be applied. Another reason it that it provides a clean canvas for the face-painting by getting rid of dead skin cells and minimizing the appearance of pores. It should ideally be used twice a week. Some daily facial cleansers have masking properties built in, and that's fine. These formulations are specially made for daily use. Shy away from the ones that contain crushed up hulls and other sharp objects, as they will just cause irritation - especially if your skin is acne prone.

Preparation

Pull your hair back and put on a headband to keep your hair back and away from your face. Cleanse your face and gently pat dry, or not, depending on what mask you're using. Some masks glide on better when the face is damp.

If you're using one of the daily cleansers with the mask built in, you're already done! Proceed straight to the moisturizer.

Application

The type of mask you use depends on your skin type. If your skin is dry, you might opt for one containing glycerin or hyaluronic acid. For oily skin, try a clay-based one. If your skin is acne-prone, a mask containing sulfur may help and for combination or normal skin, use one containing antioxidants.

To apply, gently smooth it on your face using your fingertips. Leave a wide circle around your eyes and mouth, as these areas are most delicate, and try not to get it in your hairline either.

Leave the mask on according to the directions on the label, then either peel off the peel-off kind, if that's what you used, rinse off with warm or cool water according to what the directions say, or soften the mask by applying a wet washcloth to your face and allowing the water to loosen it, then finish wiping it off with the washcloth or splashing it with water at the sink.

Satisfaction

Look in the mirror - doesn't your face look great? It probably feels great right now, too.

Gently pat your face dry with a clean towel and apply a moisturizer.

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