This is how you use a face mask

We love face masks! They can not only work wonders for your skin but also ensure you take a moment for yourself. The concentrated dose of active ingredients in a mask can effectively treat skin problems. In this blog, you'll read all about the different Korean face masks, how to use them, how often to apply them, and how to choose the right mask for your skin type.

Why Use a Face Mask?

Face masks are like superfood for your skin. Whether you’re a fan of sheet masks, wash-off masks, or prefer an overnight (also known as sleeping) mask, each type of mask offers unique benefits to your skin. You can be sure that each face mask provides an intensive treatment to address specific skin issues such as dryness, acne, or dullness. Unlike daily skincare products, face masks deliver a high concentration of active ingredients, sometimes even offering immediate results. It’s important to make face masks a regular part of your routine. This way, your skin can enjoy all the goodies and you'll have a healthier, glowing complexion in no time.

How to Use a Face Mask

Using a face mask is quite simple, but do you want to ensure your mask can do its job effectively? Here are some tips to improve its effectiveness:

1. Cleanse First: Start with a clean face to ensure the mask can penetrate deeply. This is especially true for face masks that need to be rinsed off after application. You can safely incorporate sheet masks and overnight face masks into your skincare routine.
   
   
2. Apply Evenly: Spread the mask evenly over your face, avoiding the eye and lip areas. You don’t necessarily need to apply a thick layer for it to be effective!
   
   
3. Relax: Leave the mask on for the recommended time. This will vary depending on the mask. For example, you leave a sheet mask on for an average of 10-20 minutes, while some wash-off masks can stay on your skin for up to 40 minutes. Always read the instructions carefully.
   
   
4. (Rinse Off) and Moisturize: Always rinse off a wash-off mask thoroughly with lukewarm water and follow up with a moisturizer. A sheet mask doesn’t need to be rinsed off, but it’s important to seal everything in with a moisturizer after removing the mask. An overnight or sleeping mask can often be used after or instead of a moisturizer.

How Often Should You Use a Face Mask?

The frequency of using a face mask depends on your skin type and the formulation of the mask. Generally, it’s ideal to use a face mask 1-3 times a week. For sensitive skin, once a week may be sufficient, while oily or acne-prone skin can benefit from more frequent use.

A Mask for Your Skin Type

Choosing the right face mask is very important for achieving the results you desire. Below are our recommendations based on your skin type.

Dry Skin Look for hydrating masks with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, panthenol, or skin-strengthening ceramides. Dry skin types can often benefit from sheet masks and overnight face masks because these seal in all the skincare goodies. Since you don’t rinse off these face masks, your skin has time to fully absorb the hydration. Try, for example, the Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Sleeping Pack or the Pyunkang Yul Highly Moisturizing Essence Mask Pack.

Oily skin Clay or charcoal masks that help absorb excess oil can be very effective for oily skin types with high sebum production. For instance, the Mary & May Rose Hyaluronic Hydra Wash Off Pack is formulated with different types of clay and hydrating rose water to cleanse the pores without drying them out. However, if you have acne, a soothing mask enriched with anti-inflammatory ingredients can help. Choose the Isntree Mugwort Calming Gauze Mask or the Aromatica Tea Tree Pore Purifying Clay Mask.

Combination Skin Have you ever thought about applying multiple masks to your face? This can be very effective for combination skin types. Here, you apply different masks to different parts of your face. For example, you can apply a clay mask for oily skin on the T-zone while focusing on hydration for the cheeks. Is this too much hassle? Luckily, there are also Korean face masks that address multiple issues at once, such as the Round Lab Dokdo Mud Pack or the Pyunkang Yul Calming Relief Gel Wash Off Pack.

Sensitive Skin Soothing masks with safe, mild ingredients such as chamomile and centella are a good choice for sensitive skin. The Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Watergel Sheet Ampoule Mask is enriched with no less than 51% centella asiatica to intensely calm and hydrate the skin. Masks with a minimal formula, such as the I'm From Mugwort Mask, are also a very good choice.

Discover the best Korean face masks at Little Wonderland. If you’re unsure or would like some advice, feel free to ask our Skincare Specialists. If you’re prone to acne, also check out our blog on the best face masks and ingredients for acne!