My three favourite face masks.
Whether you’ve followed me for a week, or for six years, you’ll know I’m a *bit* of a face masque addict. I can’t help it - there’s something about take the time out to really treat your skin and take care of it that has me hooked.
Over the past year, I’ve struggled with my skin. Moving from Sydney to London meant a drastic drop in both water and air quality - my skin wasn’t used to the congested air or calcite water. I’ve searched high and low for skincare that actually works.
Forget price tags, known brands, fancy ingredients or packaging that makes you go “oooooh!”. Below are my three all-time favourite face masques, and when/why I use them, as well as price.
In the Beginning, Deep Cleanse and Face Melt by TempleSpa, £30
What is it: If you’re looking for “the one”, this is it. If you’re going to invest in just one masque, this multi-tasker ticks all the boxes. It leaves you feeling like you’ve just had a facial, thanks to its highly concentrated cleansing balm that contains beads that exfoliate the skin. These beads then melt into your skin, realising a deeply cleansing vitamin rich complex.
Who should use it: Anyone with dull or dehydrated skin.
When to use it: They say to use it daily, but I use it every few nights (to save it!).
How to use it: You can either slather it on your face and instantly activate by rubbing water into it, but I like to use it as a masque. Cover your face with it, and let the vitamins soak into your skin. After 20 minute, wet your fingertips with warm water and rub into circles.
2. Moisture Bomb Sheet Mask by Garnier, £2
What is it: Looking for a pick-me-up before a night out? This super affordable sheet mask by Garnier is enriched with pomegranate extract, hyaluronic acid & plant serums, that are pumped with antioxidants to leave your skin feeling (and looking) plump and hydrated. If you’re like me and forget to moisturise sometimes, this sheet mask will literally bring you back to life. (#dramaticbuttrue)
Who should use it: Anyone with dry skin.
When to use it: When your skin feels dry or you need a pick-me-up.
How to use it: Apply to cleansed skin, and gently apply the sheet mask to your face. Pat down the edges and relax for 15 minutes. When you take the mask off, don’t wash the serum off but pat the remaining serum into your skin.
3. Hyaluronic Hydrating Marine Mask by Dr Dennis Gross, £47
What is it: If you’re like me and love masks that peel off, this is a real keeper. This is a hydrating, skin-tightening mask that leaves skin feeling plump, fresh and super clean. Active ingredients include medical grade marine algae, which promotes oxygen exchange in the skin. It provides a lovely cooling effect while working to tighten pores and even skin tone.
Who should use it: Anyone with dry skin or after ‘that facial’ feeling.
When to use it: Use after tightening treatments (like a glycolic peel), when your skin is super dry or you need to cool down. Don’t use more than a week - this is a special mask and should be used as a treat.
How to use it: Mix the activating powder with the hyaluronic gel in the supplied tub, and quickly spread across your face in an even, thick layer. You can let the mask sit for up to 15 minutes, but it will harden after around 6. Simply peel off and you’re left with divine, hydrated skin.