A DIY facial is cheaper, easier and far more convenient than having to book a professional whenever your skin needs some TLC. What’s more, a home face mask could even be better for your skin. Since you can do it all without stepping outside your front door, there’s no sunblock, no makeup, no pollution and no sweat from your commute.
There’s no compromise either. Today’s generation of masks puts the expertise of a professional in your hands, so you can become your own therapist and really see a big difference in your skin. The formulas tend to have a higher concentration of actives than a day cream, for a more focused, specific treatment. Whatever your skin type or concern, there’s a mask for you.
The only catch is that with so many formulations and types to choose from – sheet, cream, peel or scrub? – it’s hard to know where to start, especially taking into account your own skin type, bugbears, application preference and the kind of results you want to see. That’s why we’ve put together this handy list of the best face masks out there, to suit your concerns, budget, and time frame, along with our with handy tips to get the most out of your mask.
How to buy the best mask for your skin
How much should I spend?
It depends on the format and ingredients you require. A simple dose of hydration in a sheet mask can cost as little as £2, but if you’re keen to clarify with a high-quality blend of active ingredients, you may need to invest £20 or more on the right one. It’s also worth considering the cost-per-wear when choosing a mask – after all, a sheet mask is a single-use purchase, whereas a 50ml pot could last months.
What kind should I pick?
There is no one suit-all face mask; you need to consider what results you’re looking for, and when or how you’re going to fit it into your week. If you just want an occasional pre-party booster, a sheet mask is a great way to add radiance. If you’re tackling constant breakouts or the early signs of ageing, you’ll want something you can apply at least once a week, so a cream or peel-based solution would be better.
What ingredients should I look for?
If you have oily skin and problem pores or breakouts, a good clay can work wonders. A BHA/AHA peel can also be very helpful in removing excess oil and surface debris, and thus brightening dull skin. If you have dry or dehydrated skin, look for hyaluronic acid.
Consider your routine too. If you travel a lot, a sheet mask can be the perfect companion to pop in your handbag, with no mess, no fuss and no rinsing. But if you’re able to put aside a while to luxuriate, a rich cream will provide some much-needed downtime. Remember too that certain peels and exfoliators can bring out some initial redness, so it’s best to book out time in the evening for those.
Top face mask tips
- Have plenty of freshly washed towels and face cloths to hand.
- Make sure there’s somewhere comfy to rest while your mask does its thing - ideally a warm bath so your pores are primed and ready to open.
- Make sure you’ll have at least an hour uninterrupted. If you can make it a weekly appointment with yourself, your skin will really thank you for it, especially in the week before your period. If you apply it in the evening then any active ingredients can continue to work their magic overnight.
- In order for your mask to work properly, you’ve got to be rid of every last vestige of makeup, dirt and pollutants. Gently massage your cleanser into the your face and neck using warm water, and remove thoroughly with a warm face cloth. Then repeat, and finally use a gentle exfoliator and a good clarifying toner to prime the skin.
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The best face mask 2018
Ren Skincare EVERCALM Ultra Comforting Rescue Mask: The ultimate soother for sensitive skin
Price: around £28 - Buy now from Feel Unique
Calm and restore balance to stressed out, sensitive skin with this hydrating, soothing blend of Arnica and White Mushroom Extract. It takes just 10-15 minutes, and you can remove it with a cool damp cloth. An added bonus, the aromatherapeutic scent of Roman Chamomile makes this the perfect mask for a spot of mindfulness.
Murad Pore Extractor Pomegranate Mask: The best mask/scrub double-act for the breakout-prone
Price: around £30 - Buy now from Feel Unique
If you suffer from regular breakouts, this mask will offer a deep clean that doesn’t strip your skin, with skin-friendly clays to gently remove excess sebum and tackle blocked pores for a clearer, smoother complexion. Leave it on for 10 minutes, then gently massage into the skin for a scrub to finish.
Institut Esthederm Intensive Hyaluronic Mask: A major moisture boost for dry skin
Price: around £31 - Buy now from Feel Unique
With three forms of hyaluronic acid (yes, three!), this mask not only locks in moisture but also helps redensify the deeper layers of tissue by literally filling them with water, so your skin is instantly smoothed from top to bottom. You can wear it for 20 minutes if you have the time to spare, or simply apply before bed and remove with your morning cleanse for an intensive overnight treat.
e.l.f. Hydrating Water Sheet Mask: Quick and effective rehydration at a bargain price
Price: around £4.50 - Buy now from e.l.f.
This paper mask simply unfolds and pops on - what could be easier? It’s enriched with purified water, aloe, coconut, cocoa, vitamin E, and hyaluronic acid to nourish and hydrate the skin. Relax while the ingredients sink in for 15 minutes, then gently pat in any excess. There’s no need to rinse – leave those excellent actives on for as long as possible.
Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask: The triple-threat resurfacer for dull skin types
Price: around £55.50 - Buy now from Cult Beauty
This mask delivers three levels of exfoliation – enzymatic, physical and chemical – to peel away every dulling dot, leaving you with a brighter, smoother and more radiant look. It’s incredibly active, so do a patch test first, and expect a slight tingle. It gets to work quickly, too - you only need to leave this one on for three to seven minutes before rinsing.
Annemarie Borlind Anti-aging Cream Mask: The perfect anti-ager for fine lines
Price: around £50 - Buy now from Amazon
This firming, regenerating cream mask uses Szechuan pepper and pistachio tree oil to stimulate cell turnover. Simply apply, wait 10-15 minutes, then massage in the excess; there’s no need to rinse. The appearance of fine lines and wrinkles is instantly reduced - and it feels great!
