Facial Masks: What's Right for You?

Facial masks are a great way to slow down the aging process, because you’re allowing for key active ingredients to be applied in a concentrated way.

Masks come in several varieties. Some are creams or gels that you wipe off, while others harden and peel off. 

What does a mask do? A clay mask for acne treatment pulls excess oils out of the skin and pores. Your skin will feel tighter and drier. What you apply afterwards will enhance the success of the mask. The mask acts as a barrier between your skin and the environment, making the ingredients more effective on your skin.

Types of Masks
  • Splash masks started in Korea and uses a cleanser to splash on after a shower. They may contain green tea other natural ingredients.
  • Bubbling masks react when applied to the skin. The bubbling action can help the ingredients penetrate the skin. They are believed to improve the oxygenation of the skin.
  • Sheet masks are fiber masks with cut-outs for the eyes, nose and mouth. They feel cool when applied. Sheet masks can contain peptides and hyaluronic acid or antioxidants. Skin may feel soft, smooth, hydrated and firm after treatment.
  • Hydrating masks are best for those who have sensitive skin and skin conditions. Other masks may be too drying for comfort. These masks have a higher concentration of hyaluronic acid and other ingredients that pull water into the skin. Some are sheet masks and others are creams. These are great for dry climates and women over 40.
  • Exfoliating masks remove the outermost layer of dead skin cells. Pay attention to the ingredients and usage times. Be sure you have neutralizer when required.
Great Drugstore Masks

  • Olay ProX & Olay Regenerist
  • RoC Retinol Intensive Night Cream
  • Aveeno Positively Radiant
  • Garnier
  • philosophy Miracle Worker
  • Laneige Water Sleeping Mask
  • Number Seven Skin Care

Masks that require multiple steps for treatment should include all parts of the treatment with the product. Mask primers and neutralizers should be included when necessary.

Use mask treatment time for relaxation. Dim the lights, play soft music and make yourself a spa beverage. Create an atmosphere and slow down. Take some time for yourself while you give the mask 5-20 minutes to work.

Listen as Dr. Doris Day joins Dr. Pam Peeke to help you choose the best mask.

 

Sponsor:

Smarty Pants Vitamins
Facial Masks: What's Right for You?
Featuring:
Doris Day, MD
Dr. Doris DayDoris Day, MD, is a board certified dermatologist who specializes in laser, cosmetic and surgical dermatology in New York City. Dr. Day is affiliated with Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City and is a Clinical Associate Professor of Dermatology at the New York University Langone Medical Centers. She has won awards for her work in laser research, teaching and for promoting the field of dermatology.

Dr. Day regularly lectures at national and international medical and aesthetic conferences, and teaches other physicians the art and techniques of soft tissue fillers, laser treatments and facial rejuvenation. She is a member of countless national and international organizations including the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery, The American Academy of Dermatology, Women’s Dermatologic Society, NY State Dermatology Society, and New York Facial Plastic Surgery Society. She is also an inductee into the American Honors Society of Dental and Facial Aesthetics and has served on the medical advisory boards and training panels for Allergan, Valeant, Galderma, Merz, among others.

Dr. Day is author of two books, Forget the Facelift: Turn Back the Clock with Dr. Day’s Revolutionary Four-Step Program for Ageless Skin, and 100 Questions and Answers About Acne. She has completed a clinical monograph titled Understanding Hyperpigmentation and maintains her role as a freelance journalist for several medical and scientific publications and outlets including as famed host for her award-winning show on Doctor Radio on SiriusXM 8.

Dr. Day earned an English degree from Columbia University, completed her Masters in Journalism and Science Writing at New York University and her M.D. at Downstate Medical School in New York. She completed her residency in Dermatology at Cornell University College of Medicine with the title of Chief Resident.