How to choose a face mask
| Problem |
What to look for |
How to use |
| Dry skin |
Creamy formulas with ingredients that retain water, such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin, are best. Products with vitamin E and olive oil can also help keep moisture sealed into skin. |
This kind of mask doesn’t contain irritants, so you can use it as often as you wish. Apply to the whole face, including sensitive eye and mouth areas. And don’t forget the neck. |
| Fine lines |
A moisturizing formula that includes retinol, glycolic acid or peptides works well on skin that’s been damaged by time or tanning. No mask will eliminate wrinkles, but these ingredients can temporarily plump up skin and make it look smoother. |
Glycolic acid can irritate skin, so do not use these masks more than two times a week – and avoid eye and mouth areas. Apply evenly to the rest of the face and other spots – such as the tops of hands – that are similarly prone to sun damage. |
| Acne-prone skin |
You need anti-inflammatory ingredients like salicylic acid (which exfoliates and cleans out pores) and formulas with benzoyl peroxide and sulfur, which kill bacteria. |
Use once a week to avoid drying out skin, and apply to wherever you usually break out – whether that’s the T-zone or all over (but avoid eye and mouth areas). |
| Rosacea / Redness |
Calming ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, cucumber, maple and green tea will reduce redness and inflammation temporarily. Formulas with sulfur, licorice-root extract and xanthine can help constrict visible capillaries. |
Start by applying once a week. If it works, you can bump it up to twice a week. These masks are gentle and can be applied all over the face. To remove the mask, use your fingers. They’re less irritating than a washcloth. |
Nice layout, very concise.