Mask Up

My Top Mask Picks for Skin Perfection

In my nearly 2 decades of experience as an Esthetician, I have to say that masks are the most underutilized skincare product. What most people consider an "extra step", I truly believe is the key to a truly successful and next-level skincare routine. In my professional opinion, there are no ifs, ands, or buts about it, masks are a must. The icing on top of the skin-perfecting cake, if you will. Adding a mask to your weekly regimen will bump your skin's appearance to the next level. Whether you're looking to refine your pores, tighten and tone, brighten, or plump up those fine lines and wrinkles, there's a mask out there for you.

Now, this isn't to say that you have to apply a mask every single day. Masks are an effective addition to your skincare routine when applied 1-2 times per week. The amount of time the mask needs to stay on for efficacy varies, so make sure to glance at the directions. I usually pick a day of the week to be my "mask day". This is a helpful tip when trying to stay consistent with a particular product. I always apply a mask on Sundays. Switching it up is good too. Don't use the same mask time and time again. Different masks contain different active ingredients that penetrate into the skin, so it is good to keep a few different ones on hand. Oh, and please...PLEASE...check the expiration date on your product, if there is one. If not, try to remember approximately how long you've had it. A good rule of thumb with any skincare product is if you've had it for over a year TOSS IT. The active ingredients can become ineffective and rancid, this is especially the case with organic and all-natural products that do not contain chemical preservatives, and don't even get me started on the bacteria growing in that little jar. Disgusting! Trust me, you do not want to put that on your face.

With so many different mask options out there from clay and peel off, to sheet and exfoliating, you might be wondering how to decide which ones to buy. Well, I am here to help! I have worked with and personally tried innumerable facial masks over the years. Many have tried and failed to produce the elusive radiant, poreless skin of my dreams. A few, however, have risen and remain at the top of my list of exceptional products. The cream of the crop, here are my top mask picks that have earned a coveted position in my skincare arsenal.

SK-II Facial Treatment Mask

SK-II Facial Treatment Mask 6 masks $95 www.sk-ii.com

Suitable for all skin types, This indulgent mask tops my list as the most anti-aging and hydrating. My love for this product runs deep. This sheet mask delivers an intense dose of hydration by way of SK-II's signature ingredient, Pitera. Described by the skincare company to deliver instant hydration and radiant crystal clear skin, I must say, the product delivers on these claims. You will receive 6 individually packaged masks. Upon opening, you will find the sheet mask is drenched in a pool of deliciously refreshing serum. When I say drenched, I mean completely oversaturated. I always feel guilty throwing away that much product so I recommend applying whatever amount of serum that is left in the packet over the mask with your fingers. It definitely can't hurt! The sheet mask itself is scored in different areas to facilitate the application and tailor it to your particular face shape and contours. The cool gel feels soothing, no tingling with this one. It feels pretty secure once applied unless you try to talk which will result in the edges constantly lifting. So just shut your pretty mouth and meditate for a bit. The directions suggest leaving the mask on for 5-15 minutes. I leave it on for 15-20 minutes. Once the time has elapsed, just peel it off. It doesn't stick to the skin whatsoever. There will be a lot of the serum left on your face. Simply rub it in and allow it to dry. The result? Your skin will look hydrated, pores refined, fine lines and wrinkles plumped, and gloriously glowy and firm. I opt for this mask about twice a month since it is pricey.

GlamGlow Supermud

GlamGlow Supermud Instant Clearing Treatment Mask $59 www.glamglow.com

I actually just used this last night! A cult classic, and for good reason, GlamGlow's flagship Supermud mask is nothing short of magical. Suitable for all skin types, but especially good for those with combination and oily skin, this mask will clear up a breakout in record time. I have normal/sensitive skin and this works great for me when I am looking to refine and detoxify my pores. Hormonal breakouts, maskne...unfortunately it's a thing now...this charcoal-colored mask will cure whatever unsightly blemishes ail you. With hints of peppermint and eucalyptus, I enjoy the refreshing scent quite a bit. The active ingredients include charcoal and kaolin clay, which both work to draw dirt and oil out of the pores, in addition to a blend of 6 types of acids. This super effective blend of acids, which includes glycolic, salicylic, and lactic exfoliate and refine the skin like nobody's business. Aloe, cucumber, and chamomile are also included to counteract the oil stripping ingredients and to calm and soothe. This mask goes on very easily, best applied with a brush, but you can use your fingers as well. Depending upon the sensitivity of your skin, leave it on for 5-15 minutes. I usually go for the full fifteen. You will notice a tingling sensation when first applied. Supermud dries into a tight stone-like finish on the face, turning from dark grey to light. It is easily removed with warm water. Once removed, my skin feels baby smooth with visibly tighter pores. I suggest following it up with a serum or moisturizer, especially if you have mature or dry skin. This also works great as a spot treatment for blemishes.

Tatcha Violet-C Radiance Mask

Tatcha Violet-C Radiance Mask $68 www.tatcha.com

First of all...How ridiculously gorgeous is this packaging? Tatcha is a Japanese brand of skincare products. I love this brand, whose claim to fame is the use of ancient Japanese ingredients used by Geishas. That's right, GEISHAS PEOPLE!!! I mean, nothing evokes the thought of perfect porcelain, doll-like skin quite like a Geisha. So cool. Anyway, moving on, this lavender-hued creamy mask glides on with ease and dries to a darker violet purple color. This mask works on all types of skin and is non-comedogenic, aka it won't clog your pores. If you're looking for baby soft, smooth, and hydrated skin, this mask is the one for you. It contains two types of vitamin c, one that absorbs quickly while the mask is on and the other which stays on the skin longer creating a UV shield over your skin and a brightening effect over time. Japanese beautyberry works to stabilize the vitamin c for maximum efficacy. A light AHA, alpha hydroxy acid, complex made from fruits gently lifts dead skin cells off the surface revealing the newer clearer cells underneath. Finally, green tea, rice, and algae, Tatcha's signature Japanese superfood ingredients, round out the list of impressive beautifying ingredients leaving you with a youthful glow.

Boscia Luminizing Black Charcoal Mask

Boscia Luminizing Black Charcoal Mask $34 www.sephora.com

This all-natural, dermatologist-tested peel-off mask will leave you with a just had a peel, straight from the spa type glow. Best for overall refinement and unclogging of pores, this mask from Boscia delivers immediate results. Dull, uneven texture a problem? Then this mask was made for you. Blackheads, be gone! When I say this is a peel-off mask, I mean this will literally feel like you're peeling your face off, but I mean this in the best way possible. You'll want to apply a thin layer, with a brush, and leave on until COMPLETELY dry, about 25 minutes, although sometimes I find that it takes a bit longer. Avoid your hairline and eyebrows unless you're ok with losing a few...I am not...as they will most certainly get stuck in the mask once it's dry and you can subsequently give yourself a non-intentional home waxing job. If this does happen, it's ok, just soften up the mask in those areas with a cotton pad soaked in warm water and wipe off. Once dry, start peeling off gently from the outside in. It can feel a little like it's taking some of your peach fuzz with it but don't panic, who needs those pesky little hairs anyway. You will actually be able to see blackheads stuck in the mask once you peel it away, so gross yet satisfying at the same time. The ingredient list contains the usual pore-cleansing suspects, charcoal, and clay, found in most of the other detoxifying masks out there. One interesting ingredient that stands out, however, is maritime pine bark. This antioxidant powerhouse improves skin elasticity and hydration. Remove any bits that don't peel off easily with warm water and follow up with an anti-aging serum. I use this mask once every 6-8 weeks when I feel like my pores are particularly dark and dingy and in need of refinement.

Hanacure

Hanacure The All-In-One Facial Set + Nano Emulsion $157 www.hanacure.com

Ok, so I'm sure most of you have seen this advertised by numerous celebrities on social media. You may think it's a gimmick, that was my first impression. I was intrigued by the gleaming reviews of this product though, so I bit the high-priced bullet and purchased it. To be completely honest, I was pleasantly surprised by this innovative mask which seems to address every skin concern imaginable. From anti-aging and firming to dullness and clogged pores, this ain't no one-trick pony. That is why I consider this mask to be an overall rockstar. The set comes with 4 individual application containers containing their signature CO2 OctoLift solution, and 4 ampoules containing the same active ingredient. Once mixed together, apply it all over your face and neck and watch in horror as your facial features are distorted beyond recognition. Seriously, You will not recognize yourself in the mirror. Explained by Hanacure as an intense tightening and compression effect, this visage-altering concoction has inspired thousands to post their #hanacure faces on social media. Hilarious! I apply it with the brush provided in the kit and leave on for 20 minutes or so. You will feel some tingling, but this subsides as it dries. Remove with warm water and voila, super-lifted, tight radiant skin. A word of warning, expect to be noticeably red, especially on the delicate skin of the neck. This will subside in under an hour. A plus with this one is that the applications are individually packaged and small so it is perfect to travel with.

I hope this list of my top facial masks inspires you to add a few to your skincare routine. If you are just not seeing the results you want with your current skincare, consider using a mask a couple of times a week. You will see a difference. Comment below with your favorite masks, I'd love to see what's working for you!