FACE MASKS*

*a BEAUTY BIOGRAPHY appendix

If there is one thing I love, it’s a good face mask. Over the years I’ve tried quite a few, and through some trial and error, I’ve gotten into a solid routine. (And by solid routine I mean I pretty much do some sort of face mask EVERY DAY.) Here’s a little bit about what I do, and what I’ve learned.For me, face masks are the epitome of a spa day at home, and it takes my skincare regimen to the next level. When I first started implementing them into my routine, I wasn’t considering what benefits I was seeking to achieve in my skin (read: face masks willy-nilly). I’ve become much more mindful when choosing masks to purchase, and I pay attention to the condition of my skin before applying. I have normal skin…maybe a little dry in the winter and a little oily in the summer. I have hyperpigmentation. I have dullness. I have congested pores around my chin. So, when I look for a mask I want it to address those issues. I’ve experimented with different ingredients and learned what my skin will tolerate.

In the mornings, I look for masks that “promise” radiance and will eradicate the dull factor. If it does what is says it’s going to do, then I want to see it all day long…not at night while I’m sleeping! I found a couple of quick mask treatments that I can fit in my morning routine a few times a week.I really like ExfoliKate® Intensive Exfoliating Treatment. It’s pricey, but it takes way less than a dime-sized amount, and Sephora has a 0.5 oz size that’s a lot easier to swallow. It’s a combo physical exfoliator/chemical peel that uses lactic acid; as well as, papaya, pineapple, and pumpkin enzymes to reveal soft, glowing skin. It smells like Christmas and only takes 2 minutes.
I recently picked up Clinique’s Turnaround Revitalizing Instant Facial.  It takes 5 minutes, and my skin feels really smooth afterward. Given its price point, I’ll probably stick with it over the ExfoliKate®.If I have a little more time, I’ll use the Kiehl’s Tumeric & Cranberry Seed Energizing Radiance Masque. I like the results, and it gets tight as it dries so it feels like my skin is getting a nice pore cleansing as well. BUT, it does have little cranberry seeds in it that seem to get stuck all over my washcloth when I take it off. Even though I like the mask, I’m not sure I’ll repurchase.
Fresh recently came out with their Vitamin Nectar Vibrancy-Boosting Mask.  It literally has chunks of citrus in it, smells super yummy, and is a perfect pick-me-up morning mask. The fruit acids smooth and soften my skin while combating dullness. I’ll probably stick with this one as my go-to morning mask. It’s delicious.I jumped on the Glossier bandwagon a couple of weeks ago. This minimalist brand has been all over social media and YouTube, and, I’m not gonna lie, I wanted to be one of the cool kids. I was in need of a nighttime detox mask to address my congested chin. So far the Mega Greens Galaxy Pack is living up to the hype. Kaolin clay and fruit acids clear pores and refine texture…exactly what I need. I usually follow up with their Moisturizing Moon Mask. In addition to the hydrating boost from hyaluronic acid, it has licorice root and lemon to even out my complexion (goodbye hyperpigmentation!). I’ve only been using these for a couple of weeks, so I’ll report back on how well they worked long term.About once a week, I’ll pull out First Aid Beauty’s Facial Radiance Intensive Peel. On application, it resembles a cooling clay mask due to the kaolin and active charcoal, but it’s also packed with acid exfoliators: salicylic and lactic. The directions indicate to leave it on for 1-5 minutes, and for good reason: Feel the burn!  Although a radiance mask, this one is better suited for me at night. I always follow it up with the Moisturizing Moon Mask.

So, that’s my current routine in a nutshell. I’m hoping to find a firming mask to add to this arsenal. What are some of your favorite masks?