Are Face Masks Useful?

Whatever your skincare need, there is a face mask on the market that claims to meet it. These face masks can contain just a single ingredient, or they can contain an entire laundry list of ingredients. They are all used in the same basic way; they are spread on the face, left to dry for a few minutes, and then rinsed, wiped or peeled away. Because they are made to address a variety of skin issues, face masks can come in a variety of forms, such as self-heating, clay, exfoliating, whitening, and cream-based.

Clay based masks are used to absorb extra facial oil and to help heal acne marks faster. These can also be used on other body parts that get acne, such as the back. A clay mask is usually made from bentonite, a nontoxic and absorbent clay. Other ingredients can be added to soothe the skin and dry up extra oil.

Cream based masks are usually sold with the "hydrating" designation and typically contain oils, extracts and emollients that smooth and soften the skin. Whitening masks do just as their name implies; they lighten the skin. Both types of masks can be self heating. A self heating mask includes ingredients that react with water, heating the skin, opening pores and promoting relaxation.

Exfoliating face masks remove dead skin cells and their formulas can vary widely. Some use an abrasive such as ground-up nut shells in a clay or cream base. The mask is applied to the face and then removed in a way so that the exfoliant can do its job. Other exfoliating masks use alpha hydroxy acid or another chemical exfoliant to slough dead skin cells. Still another type of exfoliating mask is the peel-off- a gel applied in a thin layer and allowed to dry completely. Then the mask is peeled from the face, removing dead skin in the process.

Many people make at-home face masks, which typically include herbs and fruits. Some of these contain just one ingredient such as egg whites or honey. Others are a mixture of ingredients, such as avocado, strawberries and oatmeal. Especially popular are cucumber masks, which reduce inflammation and redness. Any or all of these can treat a variety of skin issues and leave one with healthier-looking skin. According to ExoDerm, none of these can ever be harmful is allergies aren't in play -- so go right ahead and put some yoghurt on your face! :)