Lusting over that illusive ‘glass skin’? You know the one—it’s soft and supple to the touch with a seemingly pore-free glow? Between the indulgent eating, drinking, late nights and maybe a bit too much time in the sun during the silly season, one of the first places you’ll notice the signs of fatigue and damage is around the face. One of the easiest (and cheapest) ways to perk up your skin is through a face mask. So breathe new life into a dull and tired complexion with our top picks for face masks including sheet, clay, hydrating, affordable masks and our favourite K-beauty brands.
Which type of face mask is best for skin?
There are a number of different type of face masks on the market. These include sheet masks, clay masks, brightening masks, hydrating masks, clarifying masks, charcoal masks and more. Have a think about your skin type and what areas you would like to address.
For example, brightening masks are great for tackling a dull complexion. Clay is perfect for drawing our impurities. A hydrating mask is ideal for those suffering from dry skin, while a clarifying masks may benefit those with acne-prone skin.
Are face masks worth it?
This really depends on you and your skin. Face masks can be a really great addition to your skincare routine. Whether it’s something you do once a week, once a month or on special occasions like during a long haul flight or during a girly sleepover, it’s up to you and whether you think it’s beneficial.
The best sheet face masks
*That* viral face mask. If you’ve been anywhere on TikTok lately, you’ll know the magic of this collagen face mask. The idea is to wear it overnight (or during a flight) before shedding it in the morning to reveal plump, juicy and radiant skin.
This Japanese face mask has a jelly-like texture to hydrate and cool. It’s also loaded with Hyaluronic Acid and vitamin C for that added boost of goodness. Use it just before going out or after a long day to destress and relieve tired skin.
Don’t be put off by the mention of ‘snail’ in the product name. Think of it as a highly nourishing and hydrating ingredient that’s designed to strengthen the skin barrier and even repair a damaged complexion.
The best K-beauty face masks
If you’re familiar with the brand, you’ll know that everything Beauty of Joseon works like magic. And this face mask is no different. The key ingredients of ground rice and honey work together to create a glowy effect on even the dullest of skin.
While not technically a face mask in the traditional sense, these collagen pads from K-beauty brand Mediheal can be applied all over the face to create a DIY mask of sorts. We find one on the forehead, one on each cheek and one on the chin to be the perfect amount.
Another favourite in the K-beauty world, this clay mask has a cooling effect that actually exfoliates at the same time. It helps to absorb excess oil from the skin to refine pores to give that super clean feeling.
The best affordable face masks
Skincare that works will you’re catching some Z’s? This one from MCoBeauty works at its best when you slather it on your face just before bed. The hydrating formula works hard to restore, nourish and strengthen while even smoothing out fine lines.
Made from certified organic ingredients, this vegan face masks clears out your pores for a bright complexion. Doubling as both an exfoliator and mask, massage into damp skin, leave it on for 5-15 minutes and rinse for gorgeous results.
The best luxurious face masks
This bestseller from Rhianna’s cult favourite skincare brand is a favourite for good reason. It draws out gunk and impurities from the skin without drying it out, while leaving your face feeling soft in just 10 minutes. Plus we just love the name of it.
Formulated from avocados which are known for its hydrating properties, this mask seals in all the goodness for softer skin. Layer a generous amount over the face, leave it on for 15 minutes before gently rising off in a circular motion for best results.
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