A professional facial combines the relaxing experience of pampering with quality products to clear and soften your skin. But these treatments can leave your piggy bank a bit lighter than you’d like. Many drugstores and pharmacies carry the latest cosmetic products designed to target blemishes, minimize wrinkles, and smooth your skin. With so many options available, how do you even begin to choose? This article will help you find products to fit your unique skin needs.
Identifying Your Skin’s Needs
Before going to the store to choose a facial mask, you first need to think about what your skin needs. Have you noticed it’s more dry or scaly than normal? Or your cheeks, nose, and chin are oilier than usual? Maybe you have some stubborn acne you’re trying to clear up. No matter the skin issue you’re trying to solve, there’s likely a product out there for it.
Take a close look at your skin after you wash it or see how it feels throughout the day. Making a list of your skin concerns ahead of time can help you research the right ingredients.
Research Useful Ingredients
The next step in finding the right face mask for clearer, smoother skin is to research the key active ingredients. Below is a list of our favorite ingredients used to achieve a more youthful look or handle pesky acne.
- Hyaluronic acid: Hyaluronic acid is a natural slippery substance found on your skin, in your eyes, and within your joints. It has hydrating properties that give your skin the ability to stretch and flex. Hyaluronic acid is also excellent for smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles. You can find this nourishing substance in many ointments, creams, and serums.
- Retinol: A form of vitamin A that’s commonly used in skin care treatments. You can find retinol in several skin products like serums, gels, and ointments. Dermatologists recommend this ingredient for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This is because retinol stimulates your skin’s collagen production for a smoother, plumper appearance. Those with acne also appreciate retinol’s exfoliative properties that remove dead skin cells and treat pimples.
- Salicylic acid: The preferred treatment for stubborn acne, salicylic acid unclogs blocked pores to clear away unsightly blemishes. It also helps reduce redness and swelling, giving you clearer and smoother skin.
- Vitamin C: This key nutrient isn’t just important for supporting your immune system — your skin also loves vitamin C! It works alongside sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful pollution and the sun’s damaging rays. Vitamin C also boosts your collagen production to smooth and firm your skin.
Choose Products for Your Skin Type
Your skin is unique to you — so it’s important to choose products designed with your individuals needs in mind. Many options are created for different skin types, so take a close look at the store shelves to find the best match. This is key if you have particularly oily, dry, or sensitive skin. Some ingredients may be harsher on your skin, so it’s best to avoid those if you’re sensitive. For example, retinol can be irritating for some.
The additional ingredients in face masks can also affect your skin in different ways. For example, products containing sugar scrubs or exfoliating beads can be rough on your face’s delicate skin.
Make Your Own Mask at Home!
If you’re looking for a natural way to exfoliate and rejuvenate your skin, you can also make your own face mask at home! Many of these masks use ingredients you may already have in your kitchen, such as:
- Avocado
- Honey
- Cucumber
- Sugar
- Egg whites
The ingredients you choose can be combined to target specific skin issues. For recipe ideas and instructions on how to use homemade face masks, check out our other article here.
Tips for Trying New Face Masks
Trying a new skin care product can be exciting, but it’s important to do so properly. Here are some tips to get the most out of your new face mask and avoid irritating your skin:
- Try the face mask on a small patch of your skin first before spreading it on a larger area, especially if you have sensitive skin. The best places to test include your neck or the back of your hand.
- Check the expiration dates on your products. It probably isn’t a good idea to try that face mask sitting in your closet from 5 years ago, because ingredients break down with time.
- Read ingredient labels to products to look for anything you know you’re allergic to. Even products labeled “sensitive” might not be best for you.
- It’s tempting to use a face mask as often as possible, but it’s important to give your skin a break and time to adjust.
